Bible Study Snacks, Acts 9:1-31

Hi, everyone!

Happy Friday, and welcome to another presentation of Bible Study Snacks. I hope that everyone had a wonderful week! And, as always, 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 pray that today finds you in good health and strong in faith!

This week, we continue our study of the Book of Acts, Chapter Nine, Verses 1-31.

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) Study the conversion of Saul, comparing Luke's account in this chapter with Saul's own words recorded later on in chapters 22 and 26.

For your convenience, here is a summary of Acts 9:1-31.

Not content with persecuting Christians in Jerusalem, Saul receives permission from the high priest to seek out those of the Way in Damascus and bring them bound to Jerusalem. It is near Damascus that Saul is blinded by a vision of the risen Jesus. Told to go into Damascus for further instructions, Saul is led blind into the city where he waits for three days, neither eating nor drinking.

The Lord then appears to a disciple named Ananias and sends him to restore Saul's sight and tell him what he is to do as a chosen vessel for Christ. With his sight restored, Saul is baptized and resumes eating. For some days Saul remains in Damascus and immediately begins preaching in the synagogues that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, to the amazement of those who know that he came to the city to arrest Christians.

After many days have passed (during which Saul apparently spent about 3 years in Arabia, cf. Ga 1:17-18), Saul barely escapes a plot to kill him by the Jews in Damascus (cf. 2Co 11:32-33). He goes to Jerusalem where after Barnabas spoke in his behalf he is accepted by the brethren.

Another plot by the Jews to kill Saul prompts the brethren to bring him to Caesarea and send him on to Tarsus. The churches in Judea, Galilee, and Samaria then enjoy peace and grow as they walk in the fear of the Lord and the comfort of the Holy Spirit.

REVIEW QUESTIONS:

1) What was Saul doing when he went to the high priest? (Acts 9:1)
2) What did Saul get from the high priest? (Acts 9:2)
3) As Saul came near Damascus, what happened? What did he hear? (Acts 9:3-4)
4) When he asked "Who are You, Lord?", what was he told? (Acts 9:5)
5) What did Jesus tell Saul to do? (Acts 9:6)
6) How did the men with him respond to what was happening? (Acts 9:7)
7) How was Saul led into the city? What did he do for three days? (Acts 9:8-9)
8) To whom did the Lord appear in a vision? (Acts 9:10)
9) What did Jesus tell him to do? (Acts 9:11)
10) What had Saul been doing during this time? What had he seen in a vision? (Acts 9:11-12)
11) Why was Ananias hesitant to go? (Acts 9:13-14)
12) What did the Lord say about Saul to reassure Ananias to go to him? (Acts 9:15-16)
13) When Ananias laid his hands on Saul, what did he say as to why the Lord sent him? (Acts 9:17)
14) What happened immediately thereafter? (Acts 9:18)
15) What did Saul then do? (Acts 9:19-20)
16) What was the reaction of those who heard him? (Acts 9:21)
17) As Saul increased in strength, what did he do? (Acts 9:22)
18) After many days had passed, who plotted to kill Saul? How did heescape? (Acts 9:23-25)
19) When Saul came to Jerusalem, what did he try to do? What was the reaction? (Acts 9:26)
20) Who brought him before the apostles? What did he tell them about Saul? (Acts 9:27)
21) What was Saul then permitted to do? (Acts 9:28)
22) What did Saul do while at Jerusalem? What then happened? (Acts 9:29-30)
23) What was the condition of the churches in Judea, Galilee, and Samaria at that time? (Acts 9:31)

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

(Video) Kay Arthur with Randy Robison

Kay has an amazing passion for knowing and teaching the Bible. This was a great moment hearing so honestly about her life. ~Eve

With Hope, We Can Endure Anything!

"Better to hope, though the clouds hang low,
And keep the eyes still lifted;
For the sweet, blue skies will soon peep through,
When the ominous clouds are rifted.
There was never a night without a day,
Nor an evening without a morning;
And the darkest hour, as the proverb goes,
Is the hour before the dawning!" -Selected

The book of Hebrews was written to encourage Christians to remain faithful to Christ. Chapter 6 records that some had already fallen away. The writer, however, was persuaded of better things regarding his listeners (Hebrews 6:9). So, he gives them a word of encouragement by reminding to “shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end” (Hebrews 6:11).

He then reminds us that our hope is anchored in heaven where Christ has entered to sit on the right hand of the throne of God. You see, hope is very imporant. An honest question to ask would be, "Why do we need hope?"

Let's take a look at some reasons why. First, we need hope because it gives us something "to talk about." People love to talk about their plans. Young people talk about their plans for college, home, and jobs. Working people talk about their vacation plans. Older people talk about their retirement plans.

Similarly, it’s just natural that Christians would talk about their plans to be in heaven. Jesus spoke of such plans to the disciples (John 14:1-3). Paul spoke about his desire to depart and be with Christ (Philippians 1:23). Peter spoke about his hope for the resurrection (1 Peter 1:3, 21).

Consider Paul’s words of encouragement and hope to the church at Thessalonica who were bereaving their Christian brethren who had departed this life (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Hope gives us something to talk about, sing about, pray about, and rejoice over.

Secondly, we need hope because it gives us something "to work toward." Consider the expectant father who knows the baby is on the way. Consider the young person seeking to pay for his school loans or tuition. Consider the working man looking forward to his vacation.

Hope motivates us, as Christians, to work. We may have hopes for our future work here. When we take a mission trip we elevate our hopes. When we plan the work for the congregation, we elevate our hopes.

Speaking of future work, Paul often spoke of his future work as well. He told the church at Rome, “When therefore I have performed this, and have sealed to them this fruit, I will come by you into Spain” (Romans 15:28). He told Timothy “These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly” (1 Timothy 3:14). John said, “but I hope shortly to see thee, and we shall speak face to face” (3 John 14).

I would like to stress here that the hope for eternal life should motivate us the most. Our hope motivates us to serve the Lord. Paul described himself as a servant, “in hope of eternal life, which God, who cannot lie, promised before times eternal” (Titus 1:1-2).

Our hope motivates us to be sober. Peter said, “Wherefore girding up the loins of your mind, be sober and set your hope perfectly on the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:13).

Our hope motivates us to live pure and godly lives. John wrote, “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” (1 John 3:2-3).

Finally, we need hope because it gives us something "to hang on to." If we have hope, we can get through the most difficult things. Think of this as the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. We can do daily chores that need to be done because of our hope for some future event. We can raise our children in the hope that they have a good life. We can work through difficult times in marriage, if we have hope for better days ahead.

As you can see, hope provides us a way to deal with life’s problems. Paul wrote, “And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” (Romans 5:3-5).

Paul knew personally about those persecutions. He said, “For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.” (Acts 28:20).

In conclusion, why do we need hope? We need hope because it gives us something…

1) To Talk About
2) To Work Toward
3) To Hang Onto

Thus, when we have hope, we can endure almost anything!

Prayer:

Dear Lord, whatsoever this life may bring us, grant that it may never take from us the full faith that Thou art our Father. Grant us Thy light, that we may have life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Have a blessed day!

Athene

True Faith and True Repentance Go Hand in Hand

"Moreover, true repentance never exists except in conjunction with faith, while on the other hand, wherever there is true faith, there is also real repentance. The two are but different aspects of the same turning--a turning away from sin in the direction of God...The two cannot be separated; they are simply complementary parts of the same process." -L Berkhoff, Systematic Theology, p. 487.

In ancient times in the near eastern lands, when individuals wished to show mourning or a deep sense of sorrow, they would tear their garments. Jacob mourned Joseph in such a way (Genesis 37:34). Job so mourned the loss of his family and possessions likewise (Job 1:20).

2 Samuel 1:11 records for us David’s response to the death of Saul and Jonathan. “Then David took hold on his clothes, and rent them; and likewise all the men that were with him: and they mourned, and wept, and fasted until even, for Saul, and for Jonathan his son, and for the people of Jehovah, and for the house of Israel; because they were fallen by the sword.” This custom expressed in an external way what was happening inside the suffering individual.

In the day of Joel, the fickle people of Israel had a history of acting one way, but being another. For their sins, God’s prophets proclaimed that God would bring judgment upon them. Joel was one of those prophets. Nevertheless, there was still time for repentance.

Referencing this custom, Joel emphasized that it had to be the people’s heart that changed, not merely their outward appearance. He wrote, “Yet even now, saith Jehovah, turn ye unto me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning: and rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto Jehovah your God; for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abundant in lovingkindness, and repenteth him of the evil” (Joel 2:12-13).

Rend your hearts and not your garments! Joel’s message still rings true today. God has always demanded that we first give to him our heart. David wrote in Psalms 51:17 “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.”

So he desired God to “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me” (Psalm 51:10). Proverbs 4:23 states, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; For out of it are the issues of life.”

The only question we must answer is, “Will we give it to him”? As the people of Joel’s day were, so also are many today. God calls for them to repent, but the call goes unanswered. How about us? Will we give our hearts to God so that He may make of them what He wills?

Will we, in humility and lowliness, kneel before the Father of all men and give Him what is due to Him? “Rend your hearts and not your garments” means that we must look inward to make changes before that which we do on the outside will be seen as a legitimate exercise to serve. Are our hearts torn?

Prayer:

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

May God bless you always!

Morgan

In Times of Trouble and Despair, HE Is the Answer!

Kay Warren has struggled with low-level depression most of her life. The co-founder of Saddleback Church, Warren assumed that joyful living was meant for other people—people like her husband, Rick, who she says has a naturally buoyant, “joyful, Tigger-like” personality. As a self-described Eeyore, Warren didn’t think being joyful was part of her personality.

“I used to think life came in waves,” Warren told me in a recent phone conversation. “Hard times, and then good times; back and forth.” But she’s realized the highs and lows run through our lives life on more-or-less parallel tracks. “In every moment of our lives, there is beauty, truth, honor, love. And at the same moment, there is an ache in our hearts for something else. People are dying. Relationships are ending.”

On the day of President Obama’s inauguration, Warren was present as Rick gave the invocation: a real “high” for the Warrens. “But at the same time,” Warren says, “a loved one was struggling with a mental illness. On the same day!”

Warren’s new book, Choose Joy: Because Happiness Isn’t Enough (Revell), grew out of a personal revival in recent years as she discovered what it meant to live with joy—which she says is built more upon a settled assurance about who God is and a conscious choice to praise God in every circumstance than upon whether circumstances in life are going smoothly.

“Happiness is built on happenings,” Warren told me. “Joy, on the other hand, is about connecting the eternal to the internal so that we can interpret our externals in ways that allow us to say, ‘everything around me may not be all right—but I’m all right.’” - Her*meneutics, April 16, 2012, Rachel Stone

Now, suppose I could offer you a life that is guaranteed to give you:

a. A "joy" that is greater than any other;
b. A "blessedness" that is happiness in its fullest measure;
c. An "assurance" of entering the everlasting kingdom of our Lord;
d. A "peace" that surpasses understanding.

Would you be interested? Of course, I myself can't offer such a life; but Jesus can and does! As He stated in John 10:10: "...I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly."

Jesus offers this abundant life not only by His sacrificial death on the cross, but also by His teachings recorded by His apostles; notice John 15:11: "These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full."

Think about it this way. A person can be a shining star radiating love and light outward toward others, then something will trigger depression and the person becomes a black hole in which light and love can not escape. Everything is sucked into it and it is never satisfied it seeks help from people, help from chemicals, help from everyone and everything.

Sometimes there is temporary relief, but eventually everything succumbs to the power of the black hole, the wrong quick fixes cause the hole to become bigger and with more power, as hopelessness increases like the power of gravity when matter is added to the black hole.

Other people try to help and encourage the depressed person, but eventually they feel themselves being sucked into the black hole so they begin to pull away and avoid the situation.

Dear friends, there is only one person that gives out more light and love than a black hole can absorb, His name is Jesus Christ. (John 1:1-5) In the beginning the Word already existed. He was with God, and he was God. He was in the beginning with God. He created everything there is. Nothing exists that he didn't make.

Life itself was in him, and this life gives light to everyone. The light shines through the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.

Remember...in times of trouble and despair, Jesus is your answer. His Love and Light are far greater than the power of your black hole. Jesus wants to turn you into a bright star that radiates out His Love and Light toward others in need. In closing, may the Holy Spirit come upon you and give you hope and peace and that Jesus be with you all the days of your life!

Prayer:

Dear Lord, you are our refuge in good and in bad times. In your infinite mercy, bring peace and comfort to those of us who face days sometimes filled with pain and depression. Help us to realize that through you there is joy and the promise of lasting peace. Help us to focus on our blessings rather than our misfortunes, dear Lord. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayers. Amen

May God bless you,

Gayle

Saturday Scripture Gold with Bibi: He Who Stands at the Door, and Knocks, Has Come With A Gift For All!

A Christian worker once visited a poor woman in order to bring her a sum of money which she badly needed. He knocked at her door, not once or twice only, but got no response, and he had to go away disappointed with the money still in his pocket.

Meeting her a few days later, he told her of his fruitless visit. She replied, with tears in her eyes, that she had heard him knocking, but thought he was the rent collector, and she dare not open the door, for she had not the money to pay the rent.

C. H. Spurgeon used this as an illustration of the Gospel. He Who stands at the door and knocks has come with a gift; the knock is the Savior's knock, not that of a taskmaster.

The Gospel is good news; news of a debt paid, not of rent required. It is not a demand but a free gift, which no one has deserved or could win by merit, but which is offered to all.

Jeremiah is one of the great prophets of the Old Testament. At times, this honorable seer is referred to as the “weeping prophet,” because of the heartfelt messages he proclaimed.

“And if I say, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name, then there is in my heart as it were a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I am weary with forbearing, and I cannot contain” (Jeremiah 20:9).

These words were uttered in a time of great turmoil and ridicule as a result of Jeremiah’s preaching. The Seer informs us that he was trying to keep God’s word to himself to ease his woes, but found that the woes within him only increased.

Jeremiah could not help but proclaim God’s word because of the fire burning within him. God’s word in Jeremiah was like a fire burning in a wooden box – it just wouldn’t stay in.

Nearly seven hundred years later, Peter and John were preaching the word of God and the priests and Sadducees became very angry at the apostle’s teaching. As a result, Peter and John were thrown into prison, and on the following day were threatened and told not to preach any more in the name of Christ.

“But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it is right in the sight of God to hearken unto you rather than unto God, judge ye: for we cannot but speak the things which we saw and heard” (Acts 4:19-20). These courageous apostles informed those who had threatened them that God’s word was burning within them and they could not be kept from proclaiming the blessed Gospel.

Jeremiah, Peter and John all had something we need a little more of – a FIRE BURNING WITHIN! There are too many Christians who no longer have, or who have never had a fire burning within. Too many are allowing “any little old thing” to keep them from spreading the good news of the Gospel and opposing that which is contrary to truth.

Paul fearlessly declared, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel: for it is the power of God unto salvation…” (Romans 1:16). In light of this great power, should not the fire of God’s word be burning within us?

The reason men like Jeremiah had the fire burning within them was that they knew of the seriousness of making known the saving message of God in its purity. Proclaiming God’s word is serious business for “for all have sinned” (Romans 3:23), sin separates man from God (Isaiah 59:1-2), and “wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23).

Sin comes as a result of disobeying God’s word (1 John 3:4). Thus, as along a man stays in ignorance of God’s word he is without hope.

Jeremiah had a fire burning within because he cared for the lost souls of men – he cared about their eternal destiny. How concerned are we about the lost souls of men? Do we hurt knowing that millions are dying without the Gospel?

Are we going to sit idly while our friends and loved ones die in sin, or will we have the fire burning within? James wrote, “that he who converteth a sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall cover a multitude of sins” (James 5:20). How much do you care for the lost?

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 in thy name's sake. Amen

Until next time...

Have a blessed week!

Bibi

Bible Study Snacks, Acts 8:26-40

Hi, everyone!

Happy Friday, and welcome to another presentation of Bible Study Snacks. I hope that everyone had a wonderful week! And, as always, 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 pray that today finds you in good health and strong in faith!

This week, we continue our study of the Book of Acts, Chapter Eight, Verses 26-40.

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) Review the conversions of the Samaritans and the Ethiopian eunuch;

2) Examine the apostolic ministry of imparting the Spirit through the laying on of hands.

For your convenience, here is a summary of Acts, Chapter 8:26-40...

Philip is told by an angel to go along the road between Jerusalem and Gaza where he sees a man reading in his chariot, who happened to be a eunuch and treasurer of Queen Candace of Ethiopia. Told by the Spirit to overtake the chariot, Philip hears him reading from the prophet Isaiah. Invited to explain the passage in Isaiah (cf. Isa 53:7-8), Philip proceeds to preach Jesus to him.

When they come to some water, the eunuch requests to be baptized and Philip does so upon hearing his confession of faith. When they come up out of the water, the Spirit catches Philip away and the eunuch resumes his journey with great joy. Philip is later found at Azotus, and continues to preach in the cities until he comes to Caesarea.

REVIEW QUESTIONS:

1) Where was Philip told to go next? Who told him? (Acts 8:26)
2) Who did Philip see? What was the man doing? (Acts 8:27-28)
3) Who told Philip to overtake the chariot? (Acts 8:29)
4) When Philip heard him reading, what did he ask? How did the eunuch respond? ( Acts 8:30-31)
5) Where in Isaiah was the eunuch reading? (Acts 8:32-33)
6) What did the eunuch want to know? (Acts 8:34)
7) Beginning from that passage, what did Philip preach? (Acts 8:35)
8) When they came to water, what did the eunuch ask? How did Philip respond? (Acts 8:36-37)
9) How did Philip baptize the eunuch? (Acts 8:38-39)
10) What happened when they came up out of the water? What did the eunuch do? (Acts 8:39)
11) Where was Philip found? What did he then do? (Acts 8:40)

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

Principles for Spiritual Prosperity

Spiritual prosperity is the result of walking out God’s plan for your life. In order to do this you need to allow the Lord to direct your path one step at a time.

If I had known many years ago what I was going to be doing today, I would have said, “No way, God. That is impossible.”

But keep in mind, the Lord does not show us the whole picture of our life all at once, because we would quit before we got started. Instead, God leads us one step at a time. -Spiritual Prosperity, Walking Out God’s Good Plan For Your Life!

Here are eight vital principles for living the Christian life found in Matthew 5:3–12. These are Bible based principles that will enable you to become all that God fully intended you to be in Christ.

Jesus used the word "blessed" to describe the inner condition of a believer who has a right relationship with God. It is identified with pure character. This spiritually prosperous person can live above the chances, changes and circumstances that come into his life.

He does not depend upon appearance, performance and status for self–verification. His personal being is grounded in a love relationship with Christ Jesus. Read Ephesians 1:1-14 and observe how the God–head provides our security, significance and sufficiency.

Now, let's take a closer look at the spiritually prosperous person...

Jesus Christ is our best example of the spiritually prosperous person. The night of His crucifixion He spent the evening comforting and preparing His disciples for His death. When He needed encouragement He went to the Mount of Olives to pray. In Gethsemane He took Peter, James and John aside and “began to be grieved and distressed” (Matthew 26:37). He said to them, “My soul is deeply grieved to the point of death; remain here and keep watch with Me.’

At this point, Jesus went a little further and “fell on His face and prayed, saying, ‘My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass form Me; yet not as I will, but as Thou wilt.’” When He came back after a period of prayer He found them sleeping. It must have added to His agony of spirit as He fought the battle alone. “So, you men could not keep watch with Me for one hour?” Then He added, “Keep watching and praying, that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is wiling, but the flesh is weak.”

Jesus then returned to the place where He was praying alone and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass away unless I drink it, Thy will be done” (v. 42). When Jesus returned to the three He found their eyes heavy in sleep, so He returned and third time and prayed. Moments later, “all the disciples left Him and fled” as Jesus was led away to the high priest for trial and crucifixion.

Jesus lived above the chances, changes and circumstances of the hour. He knew only one thing: “Not my will, Thy will be done!” He drew His strength from the Father’s presence. He could say with confidence and security, “But all this has taken place that the Scriptures of the prophets may be fulfilled” (v. 56). That is the spiritually prosperous man.

1. I HAVE A PROBLEM.

I have a problem and it is really worse than I ever thought. This is where the Holy Spirit makes me aware of my spiritual needs. He brings conviction of sinful behavior, sinful attitudes, non–biblical values. This can be a time of sincere searching in the Christian’s heart. It is a continuous process, and it never stops. The promise is that the poor in spirit will receive the "kingdom of heaven." Indeed we can never become Christians without this sense of spiritual poverty.

2. THE GIFT OF MOURNING.

This is my emotional response to becoming aware of my deep spiritual needs. It is my response to personal loss. What is my attitude toward my spiritual poverty? I am not as good as I thought I was. I need help now. Cf. Romans 7. The promise to those who mourn is they shall be "comforted."

3. THE SPIRIT–CONTROLLED PERSON.

The Lord God provides the power to change and grow. It is the work of the Holy Spirit in the believer’s life and ministry. We have all the resources available to us that we need to bring about the necessary changes in our lives. Cf. Romans 8. The promise is we shall "inherit the earth."

4. HOW BADLY DO I WANT TO CHANGE?

Do you really want to change in these areas where the Holy Spirit has brought conviction? How badly? Is it bad enough to "hunger and thirst" for the righteousness of God? The promise is we will be "satisfied."

5. YOU GET BACK WHAT YOU GIVE.

The emphasis here is on the reciprocation of attitudes. When you give mercy you get mercy back. When you judge you will be judged in return. When you are hostile you get hostility in return. This principle is found throughout the Scriptures (Cf. Matthew 7:1–2, 12; Luke 6:31, 37; Matthew 6:14, 15; Proverbs 11:17; 15:1, 18; Galatians 6:9; II Corinthians 9:6–9; Galatians 5:14, etc.)

The mature Christian also has the strength to change what he receives from others, even if it is meant to be evil, and use it for the good of the Kingdom. I Peter 3:8–11. We do not have to parrot back what we get if it is negative, or even hostile. We can be God–controlled men and women. We can give them back what they need, not what they deserve. We can exchange anger, hostility, rejection, etc. for what is best for the other person. The promise is we will receive "mercy."

6. THE RENEWING OF THE WHOLE PERSON.

God has provided His means of cleansing the whole person. "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (I John 1:9). This catharsis is God’s way of cleansing the "heart" (Matthew 15:11-20). Here is a principle for dealing with hostility, resentments, guilt, fear, etc. The promise is that we will "see God."

7. THE ACTIVE MAKERS OF PEACE.

It is the active process of bringing reconciliation with God, yourself and others. The promise is that we will be "called sons of God." Every time we take the Gospel out of the realm of self–edification and share it with others we are peacemakers.

8. THE ACID TEST OF SPIRITUAL PROSPERITY.

How do you know that you are growing spiritually? How do you handle adverse reactions, criticism, rejection, or persecution? The promise to the persecuted is the "kingdom of heaven."

Prayer:

Lord, grant me the strength to forgive others, and to excuse their transgressions against me, so I may truly reflect this spiritual fruit; to obliterate any persistent feelings of malice, to let each trespass end as a closing chapter, to continue on the road of righteousness, and forgive my sins as I aspire to forgive others. Amen

May God bless you,

Heather

When It Comes to Money, Wisdom is the Key!

A pair of French men said their 35-year friendship has ended due to a dispute over a $1.3 million winning lottery ticket.

Messouad Boudissa, 79, and Cheikh Guendouzi, 73, from the village of Villeneuve-sur-Lot, said they ended their friendship following a dispute about the winnings from a $26 lottery ticket. Guendouzi said he loaned Boudissa the money to buy the ticket in July 2011, with the understanding that they would share any winnings, The Local.fr reported Monday.

Boudissa said there was no such agreement and he felt "betrayed" when Guendouzi took him to court.

"I won, just me. I bought the ticket and I won. No one else was playing with me," Boudissa said.

Half of the winnings have been seized from Boudissa's account pending the outcome of an appeal. -UPI, April 23, 2012

People often have conflicting ideas about money. Some say that it's sinful to be rich; others, that it is a virtue to be poor. Many others think that money provides the ultimate security. You can see how confusing this can all get!

So how do we know which idea is correct, or not? Well, it just so happens that the Bible says a great deal about money. It speaks about earning and spending, saving and giving. It even warns about wasting our money! The Book of Proverbs in particular discusses issues related to money; such as wealth, poverty, generosity, and greed.

What wisdom can be acquired from Proverbs concerning money? To answer this question, I feel that we should first consider what is said regarding wealth and poverty.

First, in regards to wealth. Wealth does have its advantages. For example, it offers a degree of security (Proverbs 10:15; 18:11; e.g., 13:8); companionship of 'friends' (Proverbs 14:20; 19:4,6-7); power or influence (Proverbs 22:7); and the ability to speak more freely (Proverbs 18:23).

But wealth doesn't provide everything. It does not deliver us from death (Proverbs 10:2; 11:4). In fact, those who trust in their riches will fall (Proverbs 11:28).

Now, regarding the acquisition of wealth. It must be gained honestly, such as through labor (Proverbs 13:11). It is best if it is acquired by labor, not inherited (Proverbs 20:21). Wealth is also best if gained gradually, not with haste (Proverbs 28:20,22). Additionally, wealth acquired unscrupulously is temporary and bitter (Proverbs 20:17; 21:5-6; 28:8).

Let's try keeping wealth in perspective. Don't overwork to be rich (Proverbs 23:4) because riches can easily disappear (Proverbs 23:5)! Wealth can be a blessing, but it can easily become a curse; wisdom makes the difference!

Regarding poverty, we are aware that some are poor because of circumstances beyond their control. It might be due to the greed of others (Proverbs 30:14). Or maybe even due to bad loans and extortion (Proverbs 28:8).

Others are poor because of their own sinful conduct. This can be: laziness (Proverbs 6:6-11; 10:4; 14:23; 20:13; 24:30-34); refusing to heed, or listen to correction (Proverbs 13:18); pleasure seeking (Proverbs 21:17); drunkenness, gluttony (Proverbs 23:21); even wasting time on frivolous things (Proverbs 12:11; 28:19). Keep in mind that poverty is not always self-inflicted, but in many cases it is!

On the other hand, poverty also comes from other causes (natural disasters, God's chastisement, persecution, even voluntary choice). But as most Christians today are blessed with relative wealth, let's now consider what wisdom can be learned from Proverbs regarding the use of our money.

To make this easier to understand, let's break this topic up into two categories: generosity and greed. First, let's take a closer look at generosity, specifically the expression of generosity. This is reflected in the expression of generosity toward the needy (giving to the poor) (Proverbs 28:27). And toward the Lord (honoring Him with our first fruits) - Proverbs 3:9.

One might ask, "This is all well and good. But, what are the benefits of generosity?" For starters, how about the natural benefits (the inherent joy of giving) (Proverbs 11:17; 14:21). Then, there is the Divine benefits (the blessing of the Lord) (Proverbs 3:10; 11:24-25; 19:17). For true happiness, with the Lord as our Benefactor, we must be generous!

Next, in regards to greed, there are a couple of items to explore a little further. First, there are the qualities of greed:

a. Insatiable desires (like a leech) (Proverbs 30:15-16)
b. Laziness (Proverbs 21:25-26)
c. Hypocrisy (Proverbs 23:6-8)

Secondly, there are the dangers of greed, such as:

a. Troubles in one's self (Proverbs 1:19)
b. Troubles in one's family (Proverbs 15:27)

It's plain to see that in order to avoid misery, for ourselves and others, we must not be greedy!

In summary, with the aid of the Book of Proverbs, we can have wisdom regarding wealth, poverty, generosity, even greed! With the blessing of the Lord, we can experience both wealth that comes from honest labor; and generosity. This is generosity that springs from a merciful heart.

Certainly there is no place for arrogance and abuse when we have been materially blessed. The rich and the poor have this in common, The LORD is the maker of them all. (Proverbs 22:2). May the Lord give us the wisdom and grace to use our wealth properly!

Let's pray:

Dear Lord, as I go through my day;
help me to remember your teachings, and
remind me that I should apply what I know
towards others, in everything I do;
In this small way, I will help spread your message
of love, understanding, and compassion wherever I go,
and in whatever I do. Amen

Have a blessed day!

T.J.

The Danger of Sinful Friends: What Can I Do?

A Tennessee judge was so addicted to prescription drugs during his final two years on the bench that he was having sex and buying pills during courtroom breaks, at times purchasing them from convicts he had previously sentenced.

Many people didn't realize Criminal Court Judge Richard Baumgartner had a problem until he stepped down from the bench and pleaded guilty in March 2011 to a single count of official misconduct. It would be another eight months before the seriousness of the judge's problem was revealed, casting uncertainty about whether he was sober enough to be sitting on the bench.

Baumgartner, a criminal court judge in Knoxville since 1992, got addicted to painkillers he was prescribed for pancreatitis caused by chronic alcoholism, according to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation file.

One of his suppliers was Deena Castleman, who graduated from Baumgartner's drug court. She told authorities that she regularly supplied the married judge with pills and sex, sometimes during breaks from court. -Star Tribune, April 4, 2012, Sheila Burke

There are all kinds of sinful conduct. Using the above illustration as a stepping stone to discuss sinful conduct, let's talk about the the danger of evil companions. First of all, they persuade through enticement. Like the serpent tempted Eve, sinful friends will appeal to:

a. The lust of the flesh ("good for food")
b. The lust of the eyes ("pleasant to the eyes")
c. The pride of life ("desirable to make one wise") - cf. Genesis 3:6

Secondly, evil friends will offer easy gain:

a. Such as wealth without work
b. Such as pleasure without commitment
c. Such as companionship without cost

It sounds so good and easy, doesn’t it? However, you will discover that they ignore the cost of sin. They ignore the fact that sin destroys those who possess it. So called "friends" will eventually turn on one another. If they will sin with you, how do you know they won’t sin against you? They will be friends only as long as it benefits themselves!

Sin eventually exposes those who continue in it. The Bible says, "Be sure your sin will find you out" (Numbers 32:23). Sin requires lies and deception; eventually one gets caught in their web of lies. In fact, sin often carries a physical price that cannot be hidden, such as: addiction (drugs); disease (STDs); unwanted pregnancy. Evil companions never talk about the cost of sin, do they?

Lastly, let's examine the solution to evil companions. First, don't listen to them! "Do not consent..." - Proverbs 1:10. What they promise they cannot really deliver, at least for long. The truly blessed man does not walk in their counsel (Psalm 1:1). Be wise enough not to obey their enticing words!

Next, simply stay away from them! "Do not walk in the way with them, keep your foot from their path" (Proverbs 1:15). Do not let them be your companions (Proverbs 13:20), especially if they are unbelievers (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). I suggest that you be even wiser to avoid letting them become your companions!

In conclusion, this is not to say that we cannot try to save them. We must be separate from the world, but we cannot isolate ourselves (cf. 1 Corinthians 5:9-11). Even Jesus was a friend to sinners (Matthew 11:19)!

But ultimately we must be honest with ourselves. Do we influence them more than they do to us? If not, then we should stay away until we are strong enough to be a positive influence. To be wise, we must know who to listen to (God, parents, and good friends), and who not to listen to (anyone who would entice us to do evil)...

Prayer:

Dear God, The little plans I tried to carry through Have failed. I will not sorrow. I'll pause a little while, dear God, and try, again, tomorrow. Amen

May God bless you,

Mackenzie