(Video) Church on the Move - Mommy Rhapsody

A fun, creative video about being a mom set to the music of Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody. Performed by Church On The Move. Enjoy! ~Eve

Bible Study Snacks, Acts 6:1-15

Hi, everyone!

Happy Friday, and welcome to another presentation of Bible Study Snacks! I'd like to thank you for joining me again as we walk through the richness of God's spoken word and wisdom together. I hope that your week has gone well, and that today finds you in good health and strong in faith!

This week, we continue our study of the Book of Acts, with Chapter Six, Verses 1-15.

I have designed these studies to be brief, yet packed full of good information for everyone regardless of your level of biblical knowledge. I might add that these quick studies make perfect small group discussion starters, as well!

As always, I whole-heartedly believe in the importance that any Bible study should begin with prayer. If you have your Bible ready, let's pray together...

Heavenly father, please guide us as we study your Word today; I pray that our hearts and our minds will be open so that we will not only receive your Gospel, but learn from it as well; you are the Light of the world, Lord, and your Spirit will illuminate our path as we journey through your teachings. In the name of Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior. Amen

If you are taking notes for yourself, or using this for a bible study with others, here are the objectives for this week's lesson...

OBJECTIVES: This week, the reader will...

1) Note how the church in Jerusalem handled their internal problems.
2) Examine the process of selecting and appointing those who serve in the Lord's church.
3) Evaluate the charges that were brought against Stephen.

For your convenience, here is a summary of Acts, Chapter 6:1-15...

As the disciples in Jerusalem multiplied in number, it is not surprising to read of problems increasing as well. This chapter describes problems from within and without the congregation.

Hellenists (Jewish Christians who adopted Grecian culture) complained that the Hebrews (Jewish Christians who sought to preserve Jewish culture) neglected their widows in the daily distribution (cf. Acts 2:44-45; Acts 4:34-35).

The apostles, desiring not to be distracted from their own work, summon the disciples and charge them to select seven men whom the apostles might appoint to take care of this responsibility.

Seven are selected by the people and appointed by the apostles through prayer and the laying on of hands. With the problem solved, the word of God spread and the number of disciples multiplied greatly, including the obedience of many priests.

Stephen, one of the seven, began doing many wonders and signs. Opposition arose from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen who disputed with Stephen. Unable to resist the Spirit and the wisdom of which he spoke, they resorted to false witnesses to stir up the people, elders, and scribes.

Brought before the council, Stephen was charged with blasphemy against the temple and the law of Moses. The chapter ends with the council looking at Stephen, seeing his face as the face of an angel.

REVIEW QUESTIONS:

1) What are the main points of this chapter? (Acts 6:1-7; Acts 6:8-15)
2) As the church in Jerusalem grew in number, who raised a complaint? Why? (Acts 6:1)
3) When the apostles summoned the disciples, what did they first say to them? (Acts 6:2)
4) What proposal did the apostles offer? (Acts 6:3)
5) What qualifications did the apostles lay down for the selection of the seven? (Acts 6:3)
6) What would this enable the apostles to do? (Acts 6:4)
7) What were the names of the seven men who were selected? What is unique about their names? (Acts 6:5)
8) How did the apostles appoint those whom the congregation selected? (Acts 6:6)
9) As the word of spread, what two things occurred? (Acts 6:7)
10) What did Stephen, one of the seven, do among the people? (Acts 6:8)
11) Who began to dispute with Stephen? (Acts 6:9)
12) What were they unable to do? (Acts 6:10)
13) What did they secretly induce men to say? (Acts 6:11)
14) What did they stir up the people, elders, and scribes to do? (Acts 6:12)
15) What did they set up false witnesses to say? (Acts 6:13-14)
16) As those in the council looked at Stephen, what did they see? (Acts 6:15)

After completing this weeks' study, go back and read through it again. Take your time and read each topic and scripture reference as many times as you feel necessary. Keep in mind that by doing this, you just might see something new that you overlooked the first time around.

As we journey through the Bible together, I will continue to pray that God’s message will come through to you loud and crystal clear. Until next time, I wish everyone a blessed week!

God bless you!

Sheri

They Call It Dishonesty!

Dare to be true: nothing can need a lie:
A fault, which needs it most, grows two thereby. -Herbert

A survey of 29,760 students in USA high schools revealed the following about stealing...

a. 30% admitted stealing from a store within the past year
b. 23% said they stole something from a parent or relative
c. 20% confessed they stole something from a friend -- Josephson Institute's 2008 Report Card on the Ethics of American Youth.

In the same survey addressed the subject of lying...

a. 42% said they sometimes lie to save money
b. 83% confessed they lied to a parent about something significant -- ibid.

Again, the survey revealed the following about cheating...

a. 64% cheated on a test during the past year
b. 38% cheated two or more times -- ibid.

Amazingly, these same students have a high self-image when it comes to ethics...

a. 93% said they were satisfied with their personal ethics and character
b. 77% said that when it comes to doing what is right, they are better than most people they know -- ibid.

Such dishonesty is a problem confronting our society, and certainly not just young people (e.g., elected officials, employers and employees,etc.) and likely affects many Christians as well. So let's consider the problem with dishonesty.

In general, dishonesty is condemned by God's Word (Leviticus 19:11; Proverbs 6:17-19; 11:1; 12:22; Revelation 21:8)). Common wisdom tells us that "honesty is the best policy." While we're at it, here are some words on the subject by some pretty famous people:

a. False words are not only evil in themselves, but they infect the soul with evil - Socrates
b. The least initial deviation from the truth is multiplied later a thousand fold - Aristotle
c. Honesty is the first chapter of the book of wisdom - Thomas Jefferson
d. No man has a good enough memory to make a successful liar - Abraham Lincoln

Dishonesty, in particular, destroys reputation. Once you are caught lying, stealing, or cheating, you will rarely be trusted again. Even if you do it for someone, with someone - you prove yourself untrustworthy. There's a Russian proverb that says, "With lies you may get ahead in the world, but you can never go back." -

Dishonesty also demolishes families, friendships, etc. After all, relationships depend on trusting one another. Ann Landers once said, "If you marry a man who cheats on his wife, you'll be married to a man who cheats on his wife." Even if we lie for one another, we are undermining that trust.

Dishonesty disrupts workplaces. Some believe that lying, cheating, stealing is necessary to conduct business. If I am willing to lie for you, how do you know I won't lie to you (the same for cheating and stealing)?

The problem of dishonesty in the form of lying, cheating, and stealing is really self-evident. Only those blinded by pride and greed can deny the harmful effects of dishonesty. In God's Word we find the solution for dishonesty...

First, put away lying, stealing, etc. We are to "put on the new man...in true holiness and righteousness" (Ephesians 4:24). This involves "putting away lying" (Ephesians 4:25; cf. Colossians 3:9), and includes no longer stealing, pilfering, etc. (Ephesians 4:28; Titus 2:10).

Secondly, speak the truth. The Bible says,"let each one of you speak the truth with his neighbor" (Ephesians 4:25) and, "let your 'yes' be 'yes,' and your 'no,' 'no,'..." (Matthew 5:37).

Third, love all men. After all, one does not lie, steal, or cheat those they love. We are to love one another (Romans 13:8). And, we are to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44-45).

Fourth, pursue what is good. Both for ourselves and for all (1 Thessalonians 5:15). And, for whatever we want others to do to us (Matthew 7:12).

Finally, how much better, and more pleasant, would life be if everyone lived honest lives, without lying, stealing, and cheating. How different it would be if everyone followed the principles taught by Jesus and His apostles!

Without a doubt, the same could be said concerning all the moral issues we have examined. In summary, they are:

a. The truth for moral issues is in Jesus (Ephesians 4:21)
b. For Jesus is the light of the world (John 8:12).
b. Those who walk as children of light bear the fruit of goodness, righteousness, truth (Ephesians 5:8-9)

Let's follow Jesus, and we will have the light of life and truth, guiding us through the maze of moral issues that confront us daily!

Prayer:

Gracious Father, try me again by the courage I have today, if you are judging me by the fear I held yesterday. Help me to see that wavering is misleading and temperament is deceptive. May I learn self-control. Amen.

Have a blessed day!

Kaycee

(Video) Keith & Beth Moore: Enjoying Marriage

In this video clip, Beth Moore looks into James and Betty Robinson's marriage and relates the quality of tenderness to her marital relationship. Enjoy! ~Eve

Despite What Many Might Think Today...Marriage Is Honorable!

Nearly 40% of women have never been married, and fewer are in a first marriage, according to a new government report that takes a detailed look at first marriages and their chances for survival.

The data, out today from the National Center for Health Statistics, are based on 22,682 in-person interviews from 2006 to 2010 with men and women (not couples) ages 15 to 44. Among the 12,279 women studied, the percentage of never-marrieds rose to 38% from 33% in 1995.

The highest percentage of women who have never married was among blacks (55%), followed by U.S.-born Hispanics (49%), Asians (39%) and whites (34%).

The percentage of women who said they were in a first marriage declined to 36%, from 44% in 1982. Similar data on men were not collected until 2002.

The data reflect not only the "delay in getting married for the first time" but also "that more people are cohabiting," says Galena Rhoades of the University of Denver's Center for Marital and Family Studies.

Researchers consider the numbers reliable: "Of all the government reports, this series has the best methodology about marriage and divorce," says sociologist Andrew Cherlin, a demographer at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. -USA Today, March 22, 2012, Sharon Jayson

A practice acceptable to many people today is that of cohabitation before marriage; where a couple who intend to get married decide to live together first. In a poll on religion and the family conducted for Religion & Ethics Newsweekly, 49% of Americans said that cohabitation was acceptable.

Yet in the August 2005 issue of Psychology Today, there was an interesting article called, "The Cohabitation Trap: When 'Just Living Together' Sabotages Love" by Nancy Wartik.

Here's a blurb advertising the article: "Living together before marriage seems like a smart way to road test the relationship. But cohabitation may lead you to wed for all the wrong reasons--or turn into a one-way trip to splitsville."

The article first described the general reasoning behind cohabitation: That many see cohabitation as sort of future laboratory for marriage, and that living together will help them make informed decisions regarding marriage.

However, the research suggests something different. There is a very real danger in cohabitation before marriage. Now, before we consider that danger, let's first make clear what the Bible teaches about "THE SIN OF COHABITATION."

Marriage is honorable. The Bible speaks of the honor of marriage (Hebrews 13:4). Of course, marriage was first instituted by God (cf. Matthew 19:4-6). It symbolizes the relationship between Christ and His church (cf. Ephesians 5:22-33), and it also serves as a deterrent to fornication (sexual immorality) - cf. 1 Corinthians 7:2,8-9).

Next, cohabitation is fornication. Fornication is sex outside of the marriage bond. The Greek word porneia includes "adultery, fornication, homosexuality, lesbianism, intercourse with animals etc." - Thayer. Thus, cohabitation falls under the condemnation described earlier (cf. Hebrews 13:4). It can even keep one out of the kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 6:9-10; Galatians 5:19-21).

For those who respect the authority of the Scriptures, cohabitation before marriage is rejected on moral grounds. But, as illustrated in the above referenced article, there other reasons to reject it such as "THE FOOLISHNESS OF COHABITATION."

This suggests that cohabitation undermines commitment. According to Wartik's summary of the research:

a. "Couples who move in together before marriage have up to twovtimes the odds of divorce, as compared with couples whovmarry before living together."
b. "Moreover, married couples who have lived together before exchanging vows tend to have poorer-quality marriages than couples who moved in after the wedding."

One theory why this happens is called the "inertia hypothesis." Allow me to break it down for you, if I may. Many cohabitating couples get married, but without an explicit decision to commit. The marriage is seen simply as the next step in a relationship, not much different than the decision to live together.

Men who cohabit are especially less likely to commit in a marriage relationship. The hesitancy to commit led them to choose cohabitation in the first place. Therefore, the uncertainty about the relationship often continues after marriage. Wartik referenced a 2004 study by psychologist Scott Stanley that found "that men who had lived with their spouse premaritally were on average less committed to their marriages than those who hadn't."

In addition, cohabitation weakens the marital bond. Or put another way, the experience of cohabitation itself is detrimental to the marriage bond. "A couple of studies show that when couples cohabit, they tend to adopt less conventional beliefs about marriage and divorce, and it tends to make them less religious." says Paul Amato, professor at Penn State University.

Those who cohabit do not have the same moral imperative to remain faithful after marriage. If we are willing to sin with each other before we marry, how do we know we won't sin against each other after we marry?A successful marriage is one built on trust; such trust is stronger among those who fear the Lord more than they fear their spouse!

Finally, cohabitation can be injurious, or harmful to children. To children whose parents remain in cohabitation, "...cohabitation is not an ideal living arrangement for children" - Wartik. "Emotionally or academically, the children of cohabiters just don't do as well, on average, as those with two married parents..." - ibid.

To children whose parents cohabitate and then marry, if born out of wedlock, the stigma of illegitimacy looms. Even if born after the marriage, the parents' example of cohabitation will likely encourage the children to follow in their steps.

In summary, cohabitation is certainly no indication that one is serious about getting married. Many persons "...have different standards for living partners than for life partners" - Wartik. "People are much fussier about whom they marry than whom they cohabitate with." - Amato

The Biblical concept of marriage is that life partners and living partners are to be the same. This suggests that people do not live together until they are willing to committheir lives to one another. Such commitment strengthens the marriage bond and provides security for the children.

If you desire the best for yourself and your children, then follow the Biblical concept of marriage!

Prayer:

We thank You, O God, for the love You have implanted in our hearts. May it always inspire us to be kind in our words, considerate of feelings, and concerned for each other's needs and wishes. Help us to be understanding and forgiving of human weaknesses and failings. Increase our faith and trust in You and may Your prudence guide our life and love. Bless our marriage, O God, with peace and happiness, and make our Love fruitful for Your glory and our joy both here and in eternity. Amen

May God always bless you!

Patty

Where Does Our Faith Come From? (Part I)

Fil Anderson is a spiritual director, conference speaker, writer, and retreat leader. He is the founder of Journey Resources and author of Running on Empty and Breaking the Rules.

In his book Breaking the Rules he states the following:

"Religion has only enough power to change the appearance of things. Religion has never been able to get down into and change anyone's heart. It's both a humbling and freeing thing to acknowledge there's nothing we can do that reaches beyond the appearance of things. Only Jesus has the power and resources needed to change what's inside us.

For many of us, religion becomes a container that securely houses 'the rules' for successful living. The rules provide the answers to the how-to-please-and-appease-God questions that religion emphasizes. When this happens, our life is reduced to a set of principles, Bible verses, moral absolutes, and formulas.

The unmistakable conclusion is that once the rules are understood, we can relax and feel secure because God is no longer a mystery or beyond our grasp. As long as we remain focused on surface issues, life goes well.

However, when we hit a stumbling block or two, we face the emptiness of our interior life. Suddenly, 'the rules' no longer seem to apply, our life begins disintegrating, and we're forced to change."
-Breaking the Rules (InterVarsity Press, 2010), Fil Anderson

Once the English verb "to believe" commonly meant to have faith, to have trust, to entrust oneself. Today, however, it has come to denote having a belief about something. The English translation for the Greek verb for faith is always "believe in," but modern readers do not necessarily distinguish "believing in" from "having a belief."

The difference is crucial. A belief is a matter of the mind, whereas faith is an orienting of the whole person in trust. Belief is conceptual; faith is a matter of character.

Beliefs are important, of course, in so far as they turn us to God and our neighbor in faith, hope and love. Many beliefs may do that: "God is love." "There is salvation and eternal life." "Jesus points the way to the kingdom of God." "Faith is saving." "We can trust in God." "Death is not the end of life with God." "God loves us."

These beliefs, and others, may well turn and tune our minds to God and thus help us to "follow Jesus" and live "in Christ." But the beliefs do not bring us into the kingdom of God, unless we have faith-unless we trust in God and live out our faith. Faith is not believing certain things but living a certain way.

What is faith? What does it mean to believe? Some Christians think it means blind acceptance: "You've just got to believe." Some skeptics agree: "Faith is believing in something without good reasons to do so." - Steven Pinker, evolutionary psychologist who opposed mandatory religion classes at Harvard.

Both are mistaken; such ignorance of the nature of faith leads to shallowness of faith among Christians, and prejudice against faith among skeptics. It might not be a bad idea to examine the nature of faith, and the nature Christian faith in order to offer some insight on both.

Due to spatial constraints, I will split this discussion into two parts. Part I (today's message) will offer insight on "the nature of faith". Part II will revolve around "the nature of Chrisitan faith".

Let's begin with "the nature of faith"; particularly with the biblical definition of faith as defined by Easton's Bible Dictionary: "Faith is in general the persuasion of the mind that a certain statement is true." Its primary idea is trust. "...being convinced of what we do not see." - ibid.

For example: you have faith that your parents are indeed your parents. This is based upon your confidence in the reliability of their word. Such conviction or trust prompts you to respond accordingly. We have such faith (trust, conviction) in many things. In other words, we believe in George Washington as a person of history. We believe in commercial aviation as a safe way to travel. Faith is trust or conviction in something or someone!

Now let's look at the evidentiary nature of faith. Many people believe that faith is something blind ("you just gotta believe"). Yes, faith can be a conviction in "things unseen" (Hebrews 11:1). And yes, we can "walk by faith, not by sight" (2Colossians 5:7).

But there can be sound reasons (i.e., evidence) for believing in what you cannot "see." Just as you believe in George Washington, though you have never seen him; and as you believe in who your parents are, though you can't remember who was there at your birth.

Other people believe that faith is a special gift from God for a select few. In one sense faith is indeed a "gift" from God (cf. Ephesians 2:8; Romans 12:3). But while faith owes its ultimate source to God, it is available to all. For God desires all men to be saved (1 Timothy 2:3-6). He desires that which produces saving faith to be proclaimed to all (cf. Romans 1:16; 16:25-26).

The fact is that faith comes from evidence, provided by God Himself! Evidence of His existence in the universe (Psalm 19:1-3; Romans 1:19-20). Evidence of signs and wonders so we might believe in His Son (John 5:36; 10:37-38; 14:10-11; 20:30-31). Faith in the Bible is not 'blind faith', it is trust based on evidence!

As mentioned above, in Part II, we will continue our discussion on the evidentiary nature of faith by examining "the nature of Christian faith". I invite you to join me then!

Let's pray:

Lord, make me deserving of the faith that I need to get nearer to you;
Forgive my limitations and light my way toward the right path;
Bless me with the gift of humility and courage to confront the temptations of this world;
Please Father, never leave my side; and provide me with a shield to protect against envy from others, and my own self-pity. Amen

Have a blessed day!

Brooke

For True Happiness, Let God Be Your Guide!

Some people think if you are happy, you are blind to reality. But when we research it, happiness actually raises every single business and educational outcome for the brain.

Scientifically, happiness is a choice. It is a choice about where your single processor brain will devote its finite resources as you process the world. If you scan for the negative first, your brain literally has no resources left over to see the things you are grateful for or the meaning embedded in your work. But if you scan the world for the positive, you start to reap an amazing advantage.

A decade of research in the business world proves that happiness raises nearly every business and educational outcome: raising sales by 37%, productivity by 31%, and accuracy on tasks by 19%, as well as a myriad of health and quality-of-life improvements.

Training your brain to be positive at work is just like training your muscles at the gym. Sounds simple, right? Well, think about how easy it is to make yourself go to the gym.

The key with any new resolution is to make it a habit. New research on neuroplasticity -- the ability of the brain to change even as an adult -- reveals that moderate actions can rewire the brain as you create "life habits."

So to be more success, retrain your brain to be more positive. -CNN, March 19, 2012, Shawn Achor

Where does the key to true happiness lie? We live in a time where boredom, depression and other forms of unhappiness are rampant. Is there some basic principle which determines success in finding happiness?

The Book of Psalms with its very first psalm (Psalms 1:1-6) shares with us a key principle that can ensure true happiness. Notice the very first word of the first psalm - "Blessed..." The word in Hebrew denotes the idea of "happiness." The actual force of the Hebrew could be translated "O how very happy is the man..." Therefore this psalm describes "The Truly Happy Man."

We are told of his character (Psalm 1:1-2). This is described first from a NEGATIVE point of view (Psalm 1:1). There is value in negative commands or statements. For so much that destroys happiness is the fruit of sinful activity. We ought to appreciate the value of negative commands. Why is this? Because: a) They keep us from going astray and; b) They protect from harm and misery. Think of them as restraining walls along a cliff, they keep us from getting hurt.

Therefore it is said that the truly happy man:

1) "Walks not in the counsel of the ungodly." He does not take their counsel as to how to live. Nor does he follow the advice of those who are sinful.
2) "Nor stands in the path of sinners." He does not linger where sinners are known to go. Because the temptation to go with them would be great.
3) "Nor sits in the seat of the scornful." He does not join himself with those who ridicule and mock those trying to do right; which sinners often do to fortify their conduct and defend their actions.

Notice the example of Hebrew poetry in this verse. Hebrew poetry stressed "thought rhyme" rather than "word rhyme." This is where the thoughts are somehow related rather than just the words. Such thought rhyme was often expressed in various forms of "parallelism" (e.g., synonymous, Psalm 1:2; antithetical, Psalm 1:6).

Here we find an example of "progressive parallelism" (walk, stand, sit). This verse may be taken to describe the journey one takes into sin...

1) First, one going along with a crowd;
2) Then, taking a stand with the crowd;
3) Finally, reaching a point where sinning is not enough, mockery is added.

Now, let's examine the character of the righteous man from a POSITIVE perspective (Psalm 1:2). "His delight is in the law of the Lord." The source of his joy and happiness is the Word of God! It is truly his "delight" (cf. Psalm 119:16,24,35,47,70,77,92,174; Jeremiah 15:16-17). He preferred it over the counsel of the ungodly!

Thus, "in His law he meditates day and night." The word meditate means to "moan, hum, utter, speak, muse." The picture is one of a man reading and re-reading half aloud to himself. Another word might be "ponder." This he does with God's word "day and night." I am not implying a monk-like existence, but a concerted interest which goes beyond a casual acquaintance.

What it means is that this is something he does habitually; he takes time to do - setting apart portions of each day; and he does both day and night!

In conclusion, if we desire to be "The Truly Happy Man"; standing strong like a well-nourished tree (bearing fruit at all times, with the Lord always at our side); then the key is to flourish and meditate in the Word of the Lord, and not follow the advice of sinners!

In whose counsel do you abound? That found in God's word, or that provided by the ungodly in this world? If you seek true happiness, let the Lord be your counselor, and His word your guide!

Prayer:

Almighty and most Merciful God, graciously hearken unto our prayers; and free our hearts from the temptations of evil thoughts; that we may worthily become a fit habitation for Thy Holy Spirit. Amen

God bless you,

Miranda

Saturday Scripture Gold with Bibi: Faith Is a Race of Endurance

Hello, and welcome to Saturday Scripture Gold. Thank you for taking time out of your busy weekend to drop by!

Is college the enemy of faith? Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum has repeatedly claimed that "62 percent of kids who enter college with some kind of faith commitment leave without it." But Jonathan P. Hill, an assistant professor of sociology at Calvin College, says that research on higher education mostly contradicts the picture that Santorum paints.

According to Hill's op-ed in The Chronicle of Higher Education, studies that track the religious trajectories of young people show that the college experience itself doesn't appear to have much to do with the observed declines in religious commitment:

Studies using comparable data from recent cohorts of young people (for example, the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997, the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, and the National Study of Youth and Religion) have found virtually no overall differences on most measures of identity, practice, and belief between those who head off to college and those who do not. The one exception to this is the consistent finding that college graduates attend religious services more frequently than those who do not graduate from college.

Hill notes that unlike in Catholic and mainline Protestant institutions, both evangelical colleges and public institutions tend to curb the decline in church attendance. "Over all, though, this is good news for the faithful," he adds. "College is clearly not the enemy of religion. Students are not abandoning their faith commitments because of their godless college professors." -The Gospel Coalition, March 15, 2012, Joe Carter

Faith can be a simple thing, such as looking to someone we trust. But, sometimes we focus so much on faith itself that we complicate matters and forget that it's not the size of our faith, but who we put our trust in that truly matters.

After all, didn't Jesus tell us that even the tiniest amount of faith can move mountains (Luke 17:6)? When it's all said and done, it's not the size of our faith, but the almighty power of the One we put our trust in that causes wonders and miracles to come to pass in our lives.

I'd like to open this week's discussion about our faith with some scriptural references that are helpful. Let's look at these verses as examples of our being steadfast in our own lives of faith...

a. The warning against developing unbelief (Hebrews 3:12-15)
b. The need for a faith that endures (Hebrews 6:11-12; 10:36-39)
c. We are "surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses" The "cloud of witnesses" refers to those Old Testament saints like Abraham, Moses, etc. (Hebrews 12:1)

In what way are they "witnesses"? While the word can mean "spectator", it is not likely so used here; that would suggest they are now "looking down" on us from heaven. But there is no indication the dead know what is going on earth (cf. Ecclesiastes 9:5). While they may have "memory" of what happened (Luke 16:28), their attention is focused upon their present condition (cf. Revelation 7:9-17).

The word can also refer to those who "bear witness":

a) By their lives, they have borne witness to the value of faith (cf. Hebrews 11:1-40)
b) By their exemplary lives, they encourage us in "running the race of faith"!

As we seek to follow in the footsteps of others who have successfully "run the race of faith", there are three (3) things necessary as presented in Scripture.

First, we need to lay some things aside (Hebrews 12:1). Let's examine the comparison to running in this verse. The runner who seeks to win loses as much weight as possible without hurting performance. He/she wears clothing that is light and allows freedom of movement. Any excess weight, chafing clothing, etc., can be the difference between victory or defeat!

Like the runner, we too must lay some things aside, such as:

1. "every weight"; (i.e., things which slow down our spiritual progress). These can include "carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life" (Luke 21:34-36). Also, "anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy language..." (cf. Colossians 3:8; 1 Peter 2:1-2; James 1:21). Such things make "running the race of faith" difficult, if
not impossible!

2. "the sin which so easily ensnares us"; any and all sins should be laid aside. From the context, I understand "the" sin to be the "sin of unbelief." Hebrews was written to encourage faithfulness to Christ and His covenant (Hebrews 3:12-13; Hebrews 10:26-39.

Thus, with a full assurance of faith, and with every obstacle laid aside, we can "run the race of faith" as God intended. But as we comprehend the true nature of the "course" set before us, we can appreciate the need for the element of endurance.

Here are some thoughts on why we need to have endurance (Hebrews 12:1). To begin with, the "race of faith" is a marathon, not a sprint. It does not require one quick burst of energy, in which the race is soon over. This "race" requires a sustained effort over a long period of time.

Secondly, endurance is a necessary quality. Jesus often taught His disciples concerning the need for endurance (i.e., patience) - Luke 8:12; Matthew 10:22; Matthew 24:13. The writer to the Hebrews had stressed this virtue earlier (Hebrews 6:11-15; Hebrews 10:36-39).

The good news is that we, ourselves, can develop such patience with the help of the Scriptures (Romans 15:4); by reading of the faithfulness of God Who fulfills His promises, and of the ultimate end of those persevered in faithfulness.

Paul wrote that eternal life would be given "to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality" (Romans 2:7). Therefore, endurance is required for successfully running this "race of faith"! However, of equal importance is where we have our mind focused as we run the race.

Of course, we also need to focus on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2-3). Scripture tells us here that we must "look unto Jesus." Our focus must be upon the Lord as we "run the race." We might "glance" at others (cf. Hebrews 11), but we are to "gaze" upon the Lord Savior (Believers' Study Bible).

As suggested by this "Formula For Spiritual Success":

1) If you want to be distressed -- look within
2) If you want to be defeated -- look back
3) If you want to be distracted -- look around
4) If you want to be dismayed -- look ahead
5) If you want to be delivered -- look up! (cf. Colossians 3:1-2)

For Jesus is "the author and finisher of our faith" (cf. Hebrews 2:10). He is the beginning and the end, the first and the last, the Alpha and the Omega (Revelation 1:8,11). He has blazed the trail for us. And by having run the race Himself as a forerunner, He has entered the heavenly sanctuary (Hebrews 6:19-20); and He has opened a "new and living way" for us (Hebrews 10:20). As an added bonus, He helps us to finish it ourselves (cf. Hebrews 7:25).

He succeeded in running the race by looking at "the joy set before Him." The "joy" that inspired Him was likely that privilege of being seated at God's right hand (cf. Psalm 16:9-11; Acts 2:25-31). With the anticipation of such "joy", Jesus "endured the cross" (the physical pain), and "despised the shame" (the emotional and spiritual agony). Just as Jesus looked at the joy set before Him, so we must look to Jesus!

Additionally, we must "consider Him". We must consider how He endured, not only on the cross, but even before! (Hebrews 11:3). We must consider how He "endured such hostility from sinners against himself." This hostility is something He experienced frequently (cf. Luke 4:28-29; 11:15-16,53-54; 16:14).

Meditating upon our Lord will prevent us from becoming "weary and discouraged in your souls." We cannot run with endurance if we become weary and discouraged. But as we consider the Lord and His example (in itself a form of "waiting upon the Lord"), we shall not grow weary nor faint (cf. Isaiah 40:31).

In conclusion, "running the race of faith" requires both negative and positive elements. Negatively, we must lay aside things which would hinder us. Positively, we must keep our focus on Jesus who has made our salvation possible.

In both cases, the Word of God (the Bible) is crucial. For in it we learn what sort of things we must lay aside; we learn about our Lord, what He endured, and how His example should inspire us.

My dear readers, I will leave you with these two questions, "Have you lost your endurance? Have you grown weary in "running the race of faith"? If so, let the Bible help you examine what "baggage" should be left aside! Let the Bible help you learn about Jesus whose own example can encourage you to continue on with perseverance (Hebrews 10:36)!

Now, let's pray...

O Father, give us the humility which realizes its ignorance, admits its mistakes, recognizes its need, welcomes advice, accepts rebuke. Help us always to praise rather than to criticize, to sympathize rather than to discourage, to build rather than to destroy, and to think of people at their best rather than at their worst. This we ask for thy name's sake. Amen

Until next time...

Have a blessed week!

Bibi

Bible Study Snacks, Acts 5:33-42 (Part III)

Hi, everyone!

Happy Friday, and welcome to another presentation of Bible Study Snacks! I'd like to thank you for joining me again as we walk through the richness of God's spoken word and wisdom together. I hope that your week has gone well, and that today finds you in good health and strong in faith!

This week, we will finalize our study of the Book of Acts, Chapter Five, with Verses 33-42, Part III.

I have designed these studies to be brief, yet packed full of good information for everyone regardless of your level of biblical knowledge. I might add that these quick studies make perfect small group discussion starters, as well!

As always, I whole-heartedly believe in the importance that any Bible study should begin with prayer. If you have your Bible ready, let's pray together...

Heavenly father, please guide us as we study your Word today; I pray that our hearts and our minds will be open so that we will not only receive your Gospel, but learn from it as well; you are the Light of the world, Lord, and your Spirit will illuminate our path as we journey through your teachings. In the name of Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior. Amen

If you are taking notes for yourself, or using this for a bible study with others, here are the objectives for this week's lesson...

OBJECTIVE: This week, the reader will...

* Consider the apostles' response when government seeks to stifle the preaching of the gospel.

For your convenience, here is a summary of Acts, Chapter 5:33-42...

Infuriated, because of their disobedience of the command not to teach in the name of Jesus (cf. Acts 4:18), the council plots to kill the apostles. However, one in the council, a Pharisee and highly respected teacher of the law by the name of Gamaliel (cf. Acts 22:3), advises the council to leave the apostles alone. Based upon the history of other "movements" that had failed, Gamaliel reasons that if the apostles were doing the work of men, it would come to naught. But if it was the work of God, the council could do nothing to stop it and would only be fighting against God.

The council is willing to heed his advice, though the apostles are beaten and charged not to speak in the name of Jesus before being released. The apostles leave the council rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame in the name of Jesus, and continue right on teaching and preaching Jesus as the Christ every day in the temple and in every house.

REVIEW QUESTIONS:

1) What was the council's initial reaction? What were they planning to do? (Acts 5:33)
2) Who in the council stood up? Who was he? What did he command? (Acts 5:34)
3) What were his initial words to the council? (Acts 5:35)
4) What two examples does he give of 'failed movements'? (Acts 5:36-37)
5) What counsel does Gamaliel then offer? Why? (Acts 5:38-39)
6) What was the council's response to Gamaliel? Yet what did they still do? (Acts 5:40)
7) How did the apostles' respond as they left the council? (Acts 5:41)
8) What did the apostles continue to do? Where? (Acts 5:42)

After completing this weeks' study, go back and read through it again. Take your time and read each topic and scripture reference as many times as you feel necessary. Keep in mind that by doing this, you just might see something new that you overlooked the first time around.

As we journey through the Bible together, I will continue to pray that God’s message will come through to you loud and crystal clear. Until next time, I wish everyone a blessed week!

God bless you!

Sheri

Let Us Be Encouraged Through Christ!

Edward Steichen, who eventually became one of the world's most renowned photographers, almost gave up on the day he shot his first pictures. At 16, young Steichen bought a camera and took 50 photos. Only one turned out -- a portrait of his sister at the piano.

Edward's father thought that was a poor showing. But his mother insisted that the photograph of his sister was so beautiful that it more than compensated for 49 failures. Her encouragement convinced the youngster to stick with his new hobby. He stayed with it for the rest of his life, but it had been a close call. What tipped the scales? The vision to spot excellence in the midst of a lot of failure.

Paul's second epistle to the Thessalonians was designed to encourage, enlighten, and exhort. He offered encouragement in the midst of persecutions (2 Thessalonians 1:1-12). He offered enlightenment about the coming of the Lord (2 Thessalonians 2:1-17). And, he offered exhortations to Christian living (2 Thessalonians 3:1-15). As was Paul's custom, he concludes with a benediction and prayer in their behalf.

There are two main thoughts expressed in 2 Thessalonians 3:16-18. The first is in verse 16, "MAY THE LORD GIVE YOU PEACE." Let's look at the peace that the Lord provides...

1. It was prophesied that Jesus would guide us into peace (Luke 1:78-79; 2:14)
2. He came preaching peace (Acts 10:36)
3. Jesus offers a peace that the world cannot give (John 14:27)
4. A peace that prevails despite tribulation (John 16:33)
5. It involves peace with God (Romans 5:1)
6. It involves a kingdom in which peace is supreme (Romans 14:17)
7. It involves a kingdom in which Jew and Gentile can now be one new man in peace (Ephesians 2:14-18)

How does the Lord provide this peace? It is provided through His death on the cross (Ephesians 2:15-16; Colossians 1:20-22); our faith, and the justification it brings (Romans 15:13; 5:1); harmony with brethren (2 Corinthians 13:11; the Spirit bearing fruit in our lives (Galatians 5:22); fervent prayer (Philippians 4:6-7; 1 Timothy 2:1-2); emulating the example of Paul (Philippians 4:9); and the pursuit of peace (Romans 14:19; 2 Timothy 2:22; Hebrews 12:14; 1 Peter 3:10-11).

The Lord certainly desires to give us peace: He died to make it possible, He offers it to all who will follow Him. Our task is to be diligent to be found by Him in peace (2 Peter 3:14) by allowing this peace to rule in our hearts (Colossians 3:15)!

If we turn to 2 Thessalonians 3:16-18, we find that Paul makes a brief reference to writing in his own hand (verse 17). He then closes in verse 18 with a final benediction, "MAY THE GRACE OF THE LORD BE WITH YOU."

It was prophesied that Jesus would bring grace (1 Peter 1:10-11). And, Jesus came full of grace (John 1:14,16-17). His apostles proclaimed the gospel of grace (Acts 20:24; Romans 3:24; Ephesians 1:7; 2:4-9; Romans 5:2; 1 Peter 5:12). Jesus gives us everlasting consolation and good hope through this grace (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17). His apostles commended souls to the Word of God's grace (Acts 20:32).

Let's see how the Lord provides this grace. It is provided:

1. By obeying the gospel of grace (Hebrews 5:9; Romans 6:17; Titus 3:4-7; cf. Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:36; 22:16).
2. Through growing in grace (2 Peter 3:18; 2 Peter 1:2,5-8; Hebrews 4:14; James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5).
3. By making sure we do not receive the grace of God in vain; His grace will not be available forever (2 Corinthians 6:1-2; Hebrews 12:15; Galatians 5:4).

How sad to receive God's grace, but then to have received in vain! Peter describes the sorry condition of those who turn away from God's grace after having known it (2 Peter 2:20-22). Like Timothy, we need to heed the admonition to be strong in the grace of God (2 Timothy 2:1)!

In closing, Paul's love for his brethren in Thessalonica was quite evident. He wanted the Lord Himself to give them peace always in every way. And, He wanted the grace of the Lord to be with them all. Thus He began and closed this epistle with a prayer for grace and peace (2 Thessalonians 1:2; 3:16-18).

Prayer: Lord, if I am discouraged today, may I pause for your encouragement. Amen

May the Lord be with you,

Darlene

(Video) Living Proof Live! - Stockton, California

Christian Self-Doubt, Or Not?

Various news outlets have been reporting on a disturbing trend among teenage and even preteen girls: "Am I Pretty or Ugly?" videos.

The young girls are posting short video clips on Youtube and then asking people, "Am I pretty or ugly?" One such clip had over 4.5 million hits and 114,000 comments (and those hits and comments are growing every day).

The responses ranged from "U have nothing to worry about" to harsh and degrading comments.

In an insightful blog post, Sharon Hode Miller writes, "As I watched these videos, I wanted to reach through the screen and hug their tiny shoulders." Miller claims that many women in our culture struggle with the same "Am I pretty or ugly?" question. So Miller urges women to remember that their real beauty is fixed and unchangeable in Christ.

"The end goal," she writes, "is the 'blessed self-forgetfulness' that Tim Keller describes—a forgetfulness that frees us from fussing over ourselves so that we can worship and serve God."
-her-meneutics.com, March 9, 2012, Sharon Hodde Miller

Many of us suffer (or have suffered) self-doubts, or identity crises of all different types. If you have ever been embarrassed about being a Christian, let the apostle Paul share with you the reasons why he was not ashamed. He overcame any shame by knowing the Lord. This was accomplished by knowing "his identity."

Paul had knowledge of the true person and identity of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 1:12). This knowledge gave Paul courage to suffer any price (Philippians 3:8). Who is this Jesus we follow as the Christ?

In the words of Isaiah (Isaiah 9:6-7), He is wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God. An everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. In the words of Peter (Matthew 16:16), He is The Christ; The Son of the Living God.

In the words of Paul (Colossians 1:15-18), He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. By Him, through Him, and for Him were all things created. He is before all things, and in Him all things consist. He is the head of the body, the church. And, He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence!

In the words of Jesus Himself (Revelation 1:10-11,17-18; 22:16), "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last." "I am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore." "I have the keys of Hades and of Death." "I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star."

When we know our Lord's true identity, how can we ever be ashamed of Him?

Another way that Paul knew the Lord was by "knowing his faithfulness." Paul had committed his very soul to Jesus (2 Timothy 1:12). He was confident that Jesus was able to save him on the day of Judgment.

How faithful, dependable, is this Jesus in Whom we trust for salvation? He is able to aid those who are tempted (Hebrews 2:18; cf. 1 Corinthians 10:13). He is able to save to the uttermost those who come to God through Him (Hebrews 7:25). He is able to transform our lowly bodies into glorious bodies (Philippians 3:21). He will give eternal life to those who come to Him, and nothing can snatch them out of His Father's hand (John 10:28-29).

When we know our Lord's faithfulness, how can we ever be ashamed of Him?

As you might have gathered by now, the more we know and appreciate our Lord, the less likelihood we would ever be ashamed of Him. The same is true regarding His Words. Again, Paul provides us with some more examples of how he overcame any shame.

As was previously mentioned, he overcame any shame by knowing the Lord. In addition to the above examples, he did this by "knowing the Gospel." Paul was fully aware of the power of God.

Paul knew that the message he proclaimed was powerful (Romans 1:16), even though to some it might seem foolishness (1 Corinthians 1:18). What power is contained in the gospel of Christ? How about:

a. The power to save those who believe (Romans 1:16).
b. The power to cause one to be born again (1 Peter 1:22-25).
c. The power to work effectively in those who believe (1 Thessalonians 2:13).
d. The power to produce fruit in those who know and understand it (Colossians 1:6).

When we know God's power in the gospel, how can we ever be ashamed of it?

Paul also knew the "wisdom of God." Paul knew that the gospel contained the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:23-24), even though it contained that which was considered foolishness to Greeks.

What wisdom is contained in the gospel of Christ? There is:

a. Wisdom beyond the ability of natural man to discern on his own (Romans 11:33).
b. Wisdom hidden for ages, but now revealed to the Lord's apostles (1 Corinthians 2:6-10).
c. Wisdom that we can now learn by reading the apostles' writings (Ephesians 3:3-5).

As you can see, the gospel of Christ contains all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, especially for the truly abundant life and life eternal (Colossians 2:3; cf. John 10:10; 1 John 5:11-13). When we know God's wisdom in the gospel, how can we ever be ashamed of it?

In conclusion, we have very good reasons not to be ashamed. The Lord we serve is a great and marvelous Lord! His Word we proclaim is a great and marvelous message! All it takes is for us to be diligent in our study of such things (2 Timothy 2:15).

Here are two more good reasons we should not be ashamed. First, Jesus is not ashamed to call us brethren (Hebrews 2:11); and secondly, God is not ashamed to be called our God (Hebrews 11:16). If They are not ashamed of us, how can we be ashamed of Them and Their Word?

Finally, our greatest concern should be whether we will be ashamed when the Lord returns (1 John 2:28). Are we abiding in Jesus by obedience to His Word...? (1 John 2:3-6; cf. Mark 16:15-16; Galatians 3:26-27)

Prayer:

When the problems of this world try to drag me down and the angry waves of life go over my head, I turn to you, my Lord. You are my rock, my place of refuge and my hope. Never leave me alone in the battle. Protect me from my weakness, free me from my fears and give me strength to carry on. Amen.

Have a blessed day!

Kelly

We Are Children of God!

Fathers who sip pretend tea, play school alongside stuffed animals or act out storybooks with their toddlers are doing more than establishing their "fun Dad" image. They may be giving kids an academic boost that lasts at least through elementary school, a new study of low-income families suggests.

“It’s important how we play with our kids,” says lead author Gina Cook, a research assistant professor at Utah State University’s department of family, consumer and human development. “It does have long-term outcomes.”

Stimulating play might include a game of “let’s pretend” or talking about how a game or book relates to a child’s own experiences, Cook says.

Relatively little research has looked at the impact of fathers’ contributions to children’s development or academic performance, she and her coauthors write in an all-dad issue of the journal Family Science.

Until the past decade or so, Cook says, fathers simply weren’t home as much as mothers. “In a lot of research, we just go in and talk to and observe the mothers.”

Toddlers whose parents engaged in "stimulating play" like pretend games ended up with better grades by the time they reached fifth grade. This was true for both mothers and fathers -- but only for the fathers who lived with their children. -Today Show, March 9, 2012, Rita Rubin

Speaking of children, did you know that we are the children of God? In 1 John 2:29, for the first time John speaks of Christians as those who are "born" of God. It is an expression that will be used time and again throughout the remainder of this epistle (1 John 3:9; 4:7; 5:1,4,18).

It is a figurative expression, emphasizing that the Christian's spiritual life is a result of the redemptive work of God (cf. Colossians 2:12-13; Tit 3:4-7). As a result of this working of God in our lives, we have been "born again", and can therefore be properly called God's "children."

That we can be called "children of God" was amazing to John, and in the Bible (1 John 3:1-3) he desires that we reflect upon a couple of things...such as: the significance of being called the "children of God," and the implications of what it should mean in our lives.

As we take the opportunity to reflect upon such things, we first notice that this passage reminds us of what we "are" as children of God (1 John 3:1).

1. We are recipients of God's love (1 John 3:1a) "Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God!" It is through the love of God that we can even become His children (John 3:16; Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:9-10; Titus 3:3-7). It is an honor for God to even take notice of us as one of His creatures (cf. Psalm 8:3-4), how much love God must have to allow us to become His children!

2. We are unknown by the world (1 John 3:1b) That is, they do not truly recognize or appreciate what we have become in Christ. They may even deem us as religious fanatics, fools (cf. 1 Corinthians 4:9-13).

But this is understandable. For the world did not (and still does not) really know Jesus (John 1:11). And for now, our lives are "hidden" in Jesus (Colossians 3:3-4). Loved and honored by God, unknown and sometimes despised by the world; that is what we are today as the children of God.

But as stated by Paul in Colossians 3:4, when Christ comes we will "appear with Him in glory"! This speaks of our condition in the future, and John also writes of our future condition.

The second thing 1 John 3:1-3 reminds of is what we "shall be" as children of God (1 James 3:2). Exactly what we shall be like has not yet been fully revealed, which may be that due to our finite capability to comprehend. In general terms we have been promised a spiritual body and immortality (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:42-44; 50-53). But there is something else, hinted at by both Paul and John...

That is we shall be like Jesus! Paul says that we will be like Jesus when He comes. We shall bear the image of the "heavenly Man" (cf. 1 Corinthians 15:49). Our lowly bodies will undergo a wonderful transformation to become like Jesus (Philippians 3:20-21).

Though we cannot fully know what we will be like, it must really be something, for as Christ is now, no man can really see Him and live! (cf. 1 Timothy 6:13-16). This wonderful hope of what we will be some day should encourage us to "stand fast in the Lord" (cf. Philippians 3:20-4:1).

John also has something to say as to how this hope ought to influence how we live, as he describes the third, and final item for our discussion of 1 John 3:1-3. what we "should be" as children of God (1 John 3:3).

We should be motivated by our hope. The hope of which John writes, of course, is the earnest expectation that we will be like Jesus when He comes. Also, we should be diligently involved in purifying ourselves.

The Greek word for "purify" is hagnizo {hag-nid'-zo} which means "to make clean, i.e. (fig.) sanctify." It is closely related to the word for "holiness", which in Greek is hagiasmos, {hag-ee-as-mos'}, meaning "holiness, sanctification." It therefore involves the idea of being "set apart" for a holy purpose, which Christians are taught to pursue (cf. Hebrews 12:14).

We should be properly motivated by the hope that Jesus will "transform our lowly body that it may be conformed to His glorious body" (Philippians 3:21), the true child of God will work toward the purity (holiness) seen in the Lord Himself.

So, how can Christians purify themselves? First and foremost by appropriating the cleansing power of the blood of Jesus! (cf. 1 John 1:9). Only then can we hope to be truly holy and without blemish (cf. Ephesians 5:25-27). But we also have an obligation to remove ourselves from things that would defile us (cf. 2 Corinthians 6:16-7:1).

In summary, by virtue of God's love for us, and His working in us, we can truly be called the "children of God"! However, to become a child of God, and truly remain such, we must be willing to cooperate with God.

When our faith joins with the working of God, we can become His children! (cf. Colossians 2:12-13; Galatians 3:26-27). As long as our faith remains strong, we have the assurance of receiving the promises God has made (cf. Hebrews 3:12-14; 4:1-2; 10:35-39; Revelation 2:10).

Friends, may the love our heavenly Father has shown in making us His children, serve to motivate us to remain faithful to Him!

Prayer:

Almighty God who art the light of the world, grant us thy heavenly blessing. May the radiance of Your light illumine our hearts and brighten our home with the spirit of faith and love. Let the light of Your Presence guide us, for in Your light do we see light. Bless us also with Your Spirit, that happiness and peace may ever abide in all men. Amen.

Have a wonderfully blessed day!

Randi

Leading A Balanced Life...

The vernal equinox, or spring equinox, is one of two times during the year when the length of day and the length of night are just about equal. And when this happens, the egg balancers and broom standers come out of the woodwork.

As folklore has it, the position of the sun and other planets on the equinoxes means that miraculous feats of balance can occur. True?

No. But twice a year, many people try. That explains the images popping up on social media of precariously balanced raw eggs and brooms. Look, Ma! No hands!

The spring equinox – when the sun is positioned directly over the equator of our tilted Earth -- will occur at 1:14 a.m. Eastern on Tuesday. And, as About.com notes, astronomers attest that equinoxes and planetary alignments have no "physical effect on earthly objects."

Easter falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the vernal equinox. And at sunrise on the vernal equinox, Egypt's sphinx points directly to the rising sun.

Nowruz, known widely as the Persian new year, takes place on the vernal equinox. On Monday morning, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton wished Iranians a happy new year, according to Agence France-Presse, while also calling for respect for human rights and freedom of expression.

Millions of Iranians, Kurds and other groups in the region will celebrate the 13-day festival.

Meanwhile, some Americans will be balancing eggs. -latimes.com, March 19, 2012, Amy Hubbard

Besides balancing eggs, we do need balance in our lives as well. Too much of one thing, or another (extremism) is not good! The Book of Ecclesiastes offers some outstanding advice for balanced living.

First, do things in moderation (Ecclesiastes 7:15-22). After all, extremes can create problems. One of life's vanities is that the righteous don't always prosper, nor do the wicked always suffer (Ecclesiastes 7:15).

Here the Preacher saw that which Job's friends did not. They reasoned that righteous never suffer, only the wicked (cf. Job 4:7-8). Yet Job, like the Preacher, knew that was not always the case (cf. Job 21:7-9).

Of course, both Job and the Preacher knew the ultimate end of the wicked. The wicked are reserved for the day of doom and wrath (Job 21:30). And, it will be well for those who fear God (Ecclesiates 8:12-13).

One should avoid extremism in seeking to be righteous and wise (Ecclesiastes 7:16). There is a righteousness to be avoided (i.e., "self-righteousness"). There is also righteousness born of pride and arrogance (e.g., Luke 18:10-14). The Pharisees were a classic case of being "overly righteous" (cf. Matthew 23:1-33).

There is also a wisdom to be avoided. This is the wisdom of this world (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:18-20). It too is born out of pride and arrogance.

One should also avoid extremism in wickedness and foolishness (Ecclesiastes 7:17). Not that "a little wickedness and folly" is ever acceptable to God! But God may be merciful and provide opportunity to repent for some (2 Peter 3:9), while His anger and wrath might be moved to cut off those who arrogantly and openly despise Him (e.g., Acts 12:21-23).

Second, don't refrain from true righteousness and wisdom. One should still fear God (Ecclesiastes 7:18). Understanding the dangers of extremism is important, but the fear of God remains the key to true knowledge and pleasing God (cf. Proverbs 1:7; Ecclesiastes 8:12).

Wisdom does have its place (Ecclesiastes 7:19). It is better than ten rulers (or mighty men) of a city! Or, better than strength (cf. Ecclesiastes 9:13-18). Yet no one is perfect (Ecclesiastes 7:20). No one is perfect, even as the Psalmist declared (Psalm 14:1-3), and as the apostle Paul taught (Romans 3:21).

Third, don't believe everything people say. You may sometimes hear others say bad things about you (Ecclesiastes 7:21). You, yourself, have said things that were unkind about others (Ecclesiastes 7:22). So don't take what you hear too seriously (i.e., don't be so" righteously" indignant).

The sense of this section seems to be one of being "balanced", not over-reacting that you overshoot your true goal, which is to please God. Along the same vein, one should also remember that as valuable as wisdom may be, wisdom alone is not the answer! (Ecclesiastes 7:23-29)

Why? Because there are some questions wisdom can't answer! The preacher himself had proved some things by wisdom (Ecclesiastes 7:23a), but others things were too deep and far off (Ecclesiastes 7:23-24; cf. Isaiah 55:8,9).

Here are some final thoughts on leading a balanced life. Man's pride tends to propel him to go to extremes. Those not content to obey His Word often seek out many sinful deeds. Even those seeking righteousness can go too far (e.g., where "righteous indignation" becomes "self-righteous indignation").

Of course, the solution is not to refrain from righteousness and wisdom, but to seek after it humbly (cf. Matthew 5:3-6). And, to apply gentleness, patience, and humility in all things, even toward those who are opposing God! (cf. 2 Timothy 2:24-25; 1 Peter 3:1-4).

Prayer:

I am no longer my own but yours,
Put me to what you will
Put me to doing, put me to suffering.
Let me be employed for you or laid aside for you.
Let me be full, let me be empty.
Let me have all things, let me have nothing.
I freely and wholeheartedly yield all things to Your pleasure and disposal
And now glorious and blessed God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
You are mine and I am yours. So be it.
And this covenant now made on earth, let it be satisfied in heaven. Amen

Have a blessed day!

Mackenzie

(Video) Lysa TerKeurst - The Most Important Two Word Prayer

Enjoy this inspiring sermon by Lysa TerKeurst entitled, "The Most Important Two Word Prayer!" (Proverbs 31) ~Eve

Saturday Scripture Gold with Bibi: "Do You Love The World More Than God?"

Hello, and welcome to Saturday Scripture Gold. Thank you for taking time out of your busy weekend to drop by!

The Bible defines worldliness by centering morality where we intuitively know it should be. Worldliness is the lust of the flesh (a passion for sensual satisfaction), the lust of the eyes (an inordinate desire for the finer things of life), and the pride of life (self-satisfaction in who we are, what we have, and what we have done). Worldliness, then, is a preoccupation with ease and affluence. It elevates creature comfort to the point of idolatry; large salaries and comfortable life-styles become necessities of life.

Worldliness is reading magazines about people who live hedonistic lives and spend too much money on themselves and wanting to be like them. But more importantly, worldliness is simply pride and selfishness in disguises. It's being resentful when someone snubs us or patronizes us or shows off. It means smarting under every slight, challenging every word spoken against us, cringing when another is preferred before us. Worldliness is harboring grudges, nursing grievance, and wallowing in self-pity. These are the ways in which we are most like the world. -Dave Roper, The Strength of a Man, quoted in Family Survival in the American Jungle, Steve Farrar, 1991, Multnomah Press, p. 68.

A very simple imperative is given to us in the Bible: "Love not the world..." But do we understand the meaning of this command? Do we appreciate the importance of this command?

In today's message, I hope to:

a. Shed some light on what John is saying in 1 John 2:15-17;
b. Provide some motivation to seriously obey what he commands in this passage.

Let's begin by answering the question, "Why should Christians not love the world?"

One could safely answer, "BECAUSE OF WHAT THE WORLD IS" (1 John 15a,16) When we talk about the "world" in this passage, it is NOT the "physical world." It is NOT the "human world." Rather, it is the world of "sin", the world of "evil"!

Three things in particular make up this world. They are:

1. "The lust of the flesh." This phrase refers to unbridled desires of the flesh (cf. Galaltians 5:19-21). Note that these desire can be expressed both: 1) Sexually (fornication, adultery, licentiousness) and; 2) Socially (hatred, contentions, jealousies).
2. "The lust of the eyes." This refers to the unlawful longing for things which we can see. It can be summed up in one word: "covetousness," or in our modern day expression, "materialism." How serious is this? Consider Ephesians 5:5-7; Colossians 3:5-7!
3. "The pride of life." This would include pride based upon such things as:

1) Age
2) Experience
3) Ancestry
4) Past accomplishments
5) Money, position, power

The foolishness of trusting in such things is seen in (1 Corinthians 1:26-31).

If I may, I would like to make a few passing observations at this point. Each of these three things often strike harder at different times in our life:

a. The YOUNG are most often affected by the "lust of the flesh"
b. The MIDDLE-AGED are usually afflicted by the "lust of the eyes"
c. The AGED are likely to be plagued with the "pride of life"

There seems to be a tendency to consider one more serious than the others. We seem more concerned about sins involving the "lust of the flesh" than sins in the other categories (e.g., which is worse, fornication or covetousness? Which do we consider more serious, adultery or jealousy?) If we are not careful, while fighting strong against immorality, materialism and pride may "sneak in" the back door!

Whether it be immorality, materialism or pride, it is still part of the "world" we are not to love! But why? There other passages which say why we shouldn't (cf. Galatians 5:19-21), but 1 John 2:15 gives another reason.

That is "BECAUSE OF WHAT LOVING THE "WORLD" DOES," it makes it impossible to love the father! "If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him." I understand "the love of the Father" means "love for the Father," instead of "the Father's love for us", for He loves us even as sinners (Romans 5:8).

John is not the only person to say that if we love the world, we cannot love God:

a. James taught that "friendship with the world is enmity with God" (James 4:4);
b. Jesus said that we cannot serve two masters (Matthew 6:24).

Our sinful pride may rebel against this thought, but we simply aren't able to love the world and God at the same time!

To see why this is so, let's define "THE LOVE OF THE FATHER." What does it really mean for me to love the Father? According to John, it means that I keep His commandments (cf. 1 John 5:3). To this Jesus agrees (John 14:15,21; 15:10).

If we love the world, we can't keep God's commandments! For example, if you are driven by "the lust of the flesh" (i.e., to commit fornication, adultery, etc.) then you can't keep God's command not to defraud your brother (cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:3-6). This could also be the case if you are overcome by "lust of the eyes" so that you always want more, and to hold on to what you have!

So it is impossible to faithfully serve God and Jesus, thereby showing our love for them, if we allow ourselves to "love the world"! But, John gives us another reason why we should not "love the world."

This is "BECAUSE OF WHERE THE "WORLD" IS GOING (1 John 2:17). It is said, in 1 John 2:17, that the world is passing away. This is true in regards to our individual lives (cf. 1 Peter 1:24; James 4:13-14). It is also true concerning everything that we leave behind (cf. 2 Peter 3:10).

In contrast, "HE WHO DOES THE WILL OF GOD ABIDES FOREVER." This is because he will be blessed to enter the heavenly kingdom (Matthew 7:21). Even his "works" will follow with him (Revelation 14:13).

In closing, Isn't this what we all want? To one day hear these wonderful words..."Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord." (Matthew 25:21)

Even if we could gain the whole world in this lifetime. Is it worth it? (cf. Matthew 16:26) Yet most people are selling their soul to the devil and this world for a whole lot less!

Let's give serious attention to John's admonition, and make sure that our affection is in the right place: loving the Father by keeping His commandments! Are you keeping the commandments of God? (cf. Matthew 28:18-20).

Now, let's pray...

O Father, give us the humility which realizes its ignorance, admits its mistakes, recognizes its need, welcomes advice, accepts rebuke. Help us always to praise rather than to criticize, to sympathize rather than to discourage, to build rather than to destroy, and to think of people at their best rather than at their worst. This we ask for thy name's sake. Amen

Until next time...

Have a blessed week!

Bibi

Bible Study Snacks, Acts 5:12-32 (Part II)

Hi, everyone!

Happy Friday, and welcome to another presentation of Bible Study Snacks! I'd like to thank you for joining me again as we walk through the richness of God's spoken word and wisdom together. I hope that your week has gone well, and that today finds you in good health and strong in faith!

In order to make the material easier to study, I will break up Chapter Five into three, reader-friendly, weekly installments. This week, we will continue our study of the Book of Acts, with Chapter Five, Verses 12-32, Part II.

I have designed these studies to be brief, yet packed full of good information for everyone regardless of your level of biblical knowledge. I might add that these quick studies make perfect small group discussion starters, as well!

As always, I whole-heartedly believe in the importance that any Bible study should begin with prayer. If you have your Bible ready, let's pray together...

Heavenly father, please guide us as we study your Word today; I pray that our hearts and our minds will be open so that we will not only receive your Gospel, but learn from it as well; you are the Light of the world, Lord, and your Spirit will illuminate our path as we journey through your teachings. In the name of Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior. Amen

If you are taking notes for yourself, or using this for a bible study with others, here are the objectives for this week's lesson...

OBJECTIVE: This week, the reader will...

* Note the amazing signs and wonders that were done by the apostles, in which all were healed.

* Consider the apostles' response when government seeks to stifle the preaching of the gospel.

For your convenience, here is a summary of Acts, Chapter 5:12-32...

Highly esteemed among the people, the apostles continue doing many signs and wonders among the people and in the temple (Solomon's Porch). Believers were added to the Lord in increasing numbers, who then brought the sick out into the streets on beds and couches, that perhaps the shadow of Peter might fall on some of them. A multitude from the surrounding cities brought those who were sick and tormented, and
everyone was healed.

Once again the high priest and those of Sadducees are filled with anger. They have the apostles placed into custody. During the night, an angel of the Lord frees them and commands the apostles to continue to teach in the temple. In the morning when the council convenes, the prison is found secure but empty. When told that the apostles are teaching in the temple, officers are sent to bring the apostles peacefully to the council. When the high priest charges them of disobeying the command not to teach in the name of Jesus (cf. Acts 4:18), the apostles reply "We ought to obey God rather than man."

They further proclaim that God raised Jesus (whom the council had murdered) and has exalted Him to be Prince and Savior who offers repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins. To this the apostles claim to be witnesses, along with the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.

REVIEW QUESTIONS:

1) What was being done by the apostles? (Acts 5:12)
2) How did the people regard the apostles? (Acts 5:13)
3) Did this hinder the growth of the church? (Acts 5:14)
4) What did the believers do? Why? (Acts 5:15)
5) Who else were bringing sick people? (Acts 5:16)
6) Of those sick and tormented brought to the apostles, who were healed? (Acts 5:16)
7) Who was filled with indignation and had the apostles put into custody? (Acts 5:17-18)
8) Who freed the apostles during the night? What were they told to do? (Acts 5:19-20)
9) What was discovered when the apostles were sent for from prison? (Acts 5:21-23)
10) When told that the apostles were teaching in the temple, what did the council do? (Acts 5:24-26)
11) What three charges did the high priest make against the apostles? (Acts 5:27-28)
12) What was the initial response of Peter and the apostles to these charges? (Acts 5:29)
13) What else did the apostles proclaim on this occasion? (Acts 5:30-32)

After completing this weeks' study, go back and read through it again. Take your time and read each topic and scripture reference as many times as you feel necessary. Keep in mind that by doing this, you just might see something new that you overlooked the first time around.

As we journey through the Bible together, I will continue to pray that God’s message will come through to you loud and crystal clear. Until next time, I wish everyone a blessed week!

God bless you!

Sheri

Always Seek First The Will of God!

The "Coronary and Ulcer Club" lists the following rules for its members...

1. Your job comes first. Forget everything else.
2. Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays are fine times to be working at the office. There will be nobody else there to bother you.
3. Always have your briefcase with you when not at your desk. This provides an opportunity to review completely all the troubles and worries of the day.
4. Never say "no" to a request. Always say "yes."
5. Accept all invitations to meetings, banquets, committees, etc.
6. All forms of recreation are a waste of time.
7. Never delegate responsibility to others; carry the entire load yourself.
8. If your work calls for traveling, work all day and travel at night to keep that appointment you made for eight the next morning.
9. No matter how many jobs you already are doing, remember you always can take on more.
-Bits & Pieces, January 7, 1993, pp. 9-10.

As Christians, we have many responsibilities that are proper... As parents, spouses, or children (cf. 1 Timothy 5:8; Colossians 3:18-21). As employees, or employers (cf. Colossians 3:22-4:1).

Yet sometimes what is good can get in the way of what is better. Such as when we fail to properly prioritize our activities. Or, allowing ourselves to be distracted by what is good, missing out on what is better.

A good illustration of this is seen in the story of Martha and Mary, two sisters who along with their brother Lazarus were loved by Jesus (cf. John 11:5). If you have your bible handy, turn to (Luke 10:38-42), and let's take a closer look at the example of Martha and Mary...

Martha was distracted. She had invited Jesus to her house (Luke 10:38). That it was her house leads most to think she was the eldest, head of the household. Her hospitality is certainly commendable, a noble trait (cf. Isaiah 58:7; Hebrews 13:2).

She became distracted by much serving (Luke 10:40). The Son of God, the Messiah, had come to her house - what an honor! There were likely others present besides Jesus: His disciples, her family, and neighbors. So, she naturally wanted her sister Mary to help (Luke 10:40).

She began to worry and be troubled by many things (Luke 10:41). These weren't things that were wrong in of themselves, but they took priority when they shouldn't have. Which caused anxiety of mind and distress of spirit! Martha allowed that which is good to get in the way of that which is better!

On the other hand, Mary was disciplined. She sat at Jesus feet and heard His word (Luke 10:39). Sitting at His feet was the ancient posture of disciples or learners (cf. Acts 22:3). It indicates she was His disciple, she wanted to learn from Him.

Mary was more concerned about being a good disciple, than a good hostess. She chose the one thing needed (Luke 10:42). In the end, there is one thing that is really necessary. That would be seeking God's kingdom and righteousness (Matthew 6:33; cf. 1 Timothy 4:8).

She chose that which had eternal consequence (Luke 10:42). Mary chose "that good part, which will not be taken away from her." For Jesus offered blessings that would last (cf. John 4:14; 5:24; 10:27-28); of which even her sister Martha was aware (cf. John 11:21-27). You see, Mary had the discipline to seek first things first, putting the better before the good!

What lesson can we draw from the example of Martha and Mary? Perhaps we should ask ourselves a couple of key questions.

First, are we distracted by things that may be good within themselves? These may include: Our duties as husbands and wives, fathers and mothers?; Our responsibilities to work and community?

Remember, Jesus warned against allowing such things to take precedence in our lives. Family cannot come before our service to the Lord (Matthew 10:37; cf. 12:46-50). Family and work cannot come before the kingdom of God (Luke 14:16-24). Cares of this world can render us unfruitful (Luke 8:14). Cares of this world can leave us unprepared (Luke 21:34).

If we become distracted by even things that are good, ee will find ourselves like Martha: worried, troubled, and stressed out! We may also find ourselves like Esau: selling our inheritance for a morsel! (Hebrews 12:16). So, are we distracted by the good?

Second, are we disciplined to seek that which is better, the one thing that is really needed? I am talking about the kingdom of God and His righteousness? Eternal life and the blessings which accompany it?

Jesus taught of the value of choosing the good part. This includes God's providential care in our lives (Matthew 6:31-33); ample surplus to replace our sacrifice for the gospel (Mark 10:28-30); peace and joy which the world cannot give (John 14:27; 15:11; 16:33; Philippians 4:6-7).

Dear friends, if we are disciplined enough to make the proper choice. We will find ourselves like Mary: free of anxiety, and praised by the Lord! In addition, we will find ourselves like Job: experiencing the end intended by the Lord! (James 5:11). Therefore, are we disciplined to choose that which is better?

In summary, Martha had the opportunity to serve the Lord again. This occurred on a joyous occasion, after the raising of her brother from the dead (John 12:1-2). Then she served with no distraction, free from worry, with no rebuke from the Lord.

Such is the case of those who learn from Martha and Mary. Those who put first things first, seeking first God's will and work in their lives. While the Lord comes first, they become better hosts, spouses, parents, workers. This is immensely better than if they tried to do it on their own, without God's help!

I ask you to always seek first the will of God, and everything will fall into place. If we become distracted by even that which is good, anxiety and problems will be our destiny in life! Now...are we willing to learn from Martha and Mary...?

Prayer:

Lord, as you taught us: he who speaks from himself seeks his own glory. I pray that I will not speak from myself. I pray that I will seek Your glory and that there be no unrighteousness in me. (John 7:18)

God bless you!

Giselle

(Video) Are You Listening?

Here's something to think about...God always speaks to us... Are YOU listening..?
~Eve

Are YOU Blind To The Truth?

William Hamilton, the retired theologian who declared in the 1960s that God was dead, died on February 28th at the age of 87. (It's funny how God seems to outlive all the people who have declared his death.)

Hamilton created a firestorm of controversy when he was featured on the cover of Time magazine for his "radical" God-is-dead theology. Hamilton put it this way: "The death of God is a metaphor. We need to redefine Christianity as a possibility without the presence of God."

Hamilton was trying to wrestle with the presence of God in light of horrific suffering, but I'm not sure how you redeem the presence of suffering by proclaiming the absence of God. -The Christian Century, March 2, 2012, Nancy Haught

When Paul wrote his second epistle to the Corinthians, he alluded to the possibility that Satan might take advantage of them: "lest Satan should take advantage of us; for we are not ignorant of his devices." (2 Corinthians 2:11)

Informed Christians, however, need not be in a position to be caught off guard. Satan's advantage is based upon one being "ignorant of his devices." But if we are aware of the methods Satan uses to lead people astray, we can resist him successfully!

How can we defend ourselves against some of these devices of Satan? We begin by noticing a "device" of Satan that Paul described later in this same epistle. This particular "device of Satan" is to blind the minds of the people.

In regards to this device of Satan, there are some whom "the god of this age" has blinded (cf. 2 Corinthians 4:3-4). The Spirit warned this would be done through "doctrines of demons" (1 Timothy 4:1-3).

Today, many minds are blinded to the truth. They are blinded...

a. By the doctrine of ATHEISM - there is no God
b. By the doctrine of EVOLUTION - we are simply animals
c. By the doctrine of HUMANISM - man is the measure of all things, and in him alone is the solution to our problems.

Those who are so blinded are hindered from receiving the truth!

How can we defend agains this device? Our best defense against it is actually a strong offense, involving a war for the "thoughts" of men (2 Corinthians 10:3-5). Our greatest weapon is TRUTH, which can defeat the false arguments and free those who have been blinded into captivity (cf. John 8:32).

Thus the need for discussion and debate, in order to cast down "arguments" (2 Corinthians 10:5). Consider the example of Paul, who "reasoned" with others (Acts 17:2-3; 19:8-9). Other weapons involve CHRIST-LIKE ATTITUDES that are "mighty in God". For example, the meekness and gentleness of Christ (2 Corinthians 10:1-4), and patience and humility in correcting others (2 Timothy 2:24-26). By "Speaking the truth in love" (Ep 4:15), we can be defeat this "device of Satan"!

Another device of Satan is to get people hooked on the "things of the world." Regarding this "device of Satan," I am referring to those things described in 1 John 2:15-17:

a. The lust of the flesh;
b. The lust of the eyes;
c. The pride of life.

Satan used these tactics against EVE (cf. Genesis 3:6). Satan also tried these tactics in tempting Jesus (Matthew 4:1-11). Today, Satan uses these tactics with a vengeance, tempting people through:

a. Immorality (lust of the flesh)
b. Materialism (lust of the eyes)
c. Arrogance (pride of life)

What can we do to defend ourselves against this device? We can saturate ourselves with the Word of God! Develop a strong love for the Father! (1 John 2:15; James 4:4; James 4:7).

But don't think for a minute that Satan will give up easily; there are other "devices" up his sleeve, including persecuting those who try to do right!

Peter warned that the devil sought to devour Christians through persecutions (1 Peter 5:8-9). Paul worried that afflictions brought about by Satan might tempt the Thessalonians to give up (1 Thessalonians 3:1-5). Even today, Satan persecutes Christians! Some literally, through great suffering as Christians. Others through social pressures that are often equally effective, such as: 1) Peer pressure; 2) Ridicule and; 3) Ostracism.

We can defend against this device by encouraging one another! This is what Peter sought to do (cf. 1 Peter 5:8-10). Paul sent Timothy to do the same (cf. 1 Thessalonians 3:2-3). We can also adopt the proper attitude: Rejoice! Knowing that trials can make us stronger (cf. James 1:2-4; Romans 5:3-4). And, knowing that those who endure are blessed by God (cf. 1 Peter 4:12-14; Matthew 5:10-12).

In addition, commit yourself to God in doing good (cf. 1 Peter 4:19). God is a faithful Creator. He takes note of our suffering, and will one day repay those who trouble us (including Satan himself!), and give us rest (cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:4-8; Revelation 20:10).

I caution here that this is not an exhaustive list, rather only a sampling of "The Devices Of Satan." The Scriptures certainly reveal much more about how the "Great Deceiver" works.

I trust this study has been sufficient to show, however...

a. That our adversary is indeed strong;
b. That ignorance of his devices make us susceptible;
c. That if we are not diligent, he can indeed take advantage of us!

Let's pray...

Blessed are you, Creator of heaven and earth,
--you made the world and offer it life.
May we do what is useful for our brothers and sisters,
--and together build a world that is pleasing to you.
To us and all whom we meet today,
--give your joy and peace. Amen

May the Lord be with you always!

Phoebe