Our Thanksgiving Message...

Thursday, November 27, 2014 is Thanksgiving Day in the U.S.A. Therefore, our ministry will be observing this national holiday. We, at the Coffeehouse Bible Ministry, would like to extend our prayers and thanks to you, your families, and friends during this period of praising God for his generosity, and many blessings. 

In order to give our wonderful ministry staff time to spend with their loved ones, assist where assistance is needed, and spread the Word wherever they are, the CHBM blog will resume on Monday, December 1, 2014. As always, our blog archives will be available during this holiday break. Please feel free to use them as God moves you!

On behalf of myself, and the Coffeehouse Bible Ministry, may God always bless you all!  ~Eve 

Prayer of Thanksgiving  by Vienna Cobb Anderson

God of all blessings,
source of all life,
giver of all grace:

We thank you for the gift of life:
for the breath
that sustains life,
for the food of this earth
that nurtures life,
for the love of family and friends
without which there would be no life.

We thank you for the mystery of creation:
for the beauty
that the eye can see,
for the joy
that the ear may hear,
for the unknown
that we cannot behold filling the universe with wonder,
for the expanse of space
that draws us beyond the definitions of our selves.

We thank you for setting us in communities:
for families
who nurture our becoming,
for friends
who love us by choice,
for companions at work,
who share our burdens and daily tasks,
for strangers
who welcome us into their midst,
for people from other lands
who call us to grow in understanding,
for children
who lighten our moments with delight,
for the unborn,
who offer us hope for the future.

We thank you for this day:
for life
and one more day to love,
for opportunity
and one more day to work for justice and peace,
for neighbors
and one more person to love
and by whom be loved,
for your grace
and one more experience of your presence,
for your promise:
to be with us,
to be our God,
and to give salvation.

For these, and all blessings,
we give you thanks, eternal, loving God,
through Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

Everyday is Thanksgiving!

"I have felt for a long time that one of the particular temptations of the maturing Christian is the danger of getting accustomed to his blessings. Like the world traveler who has been everywhere and seen everything, the maturing Christian is in danger of taking his blessings for granted and getting so accustomed to them that they fail to excite him as they once did."  -Warren Wiersbe, God Isn't In a Hurry, (Baker Books; Grand Rapids, MI, 1994), pp. 77-78

We, as human beings, are subject to resentfulness. Even worse, we're also in the habit of of lusting for what we don't have. That is precisely why giving thanks regularly reminds us just how blessed we are. When we concentrate on our blessings, instead of our needs, we are much more peaceful, and content.

By thanking God for the things we fail to appreciate, our outlook on life changes. It suddenly begins to dawn on us that our very existence depends on God's merciful blessings (1 Thessalonians 5:18; James 1:12; 2 Corinthians 12:9). Besides, expressing our feelings of appreciation for His blessings is healthy for us.

It's quite possible to have a thankful heart towards God, even though we might not feel thankful for the situation. It's also entirely possible to be mournful, hurt, or angry at sin, yet be thankful, as well. The Bible calls this a "sacrifice of praise" (Hebrews 13:15).

Dear friends, offering thanks to God keeps us (our hearts) in a close relationship with Him. Not only that, it saves us from a multitude of unhealthy emotions and attitudes that will deprive us of the peace God wants us to feel (Philippians 4:6-7). Without gratefulness, we turn arrogant and self-centered. At that point, we start taking credit for our own blessings. This, I can tell you, is not a good place to be!

Billy Graham said, "Thanksgiving--the giving of thanks--to God for all His blessings should be one of the most distinctive  marks of the believer in Jesus Christ. We must not allow a spirit of ingratitude to harden our heart and chill our relationship with God and others." I couldn't agree more.

Around the world, special days of the year are set aside for thanksgiving (or giving thanks). Fortunately, for the Christian, every day can be a day of thanksgiving. Don't let another day pass by without giving thanks to God the Father for His loving generosity (Ephesians 5:20).

Scripture: Psalm 95:2-3; Ephesians 1:15-16; 1 Timothy 4:4-5; 1 Chronicles 16:34; Colossians 3:17

Prayer: Dear Lord, I know that I don't always tell you how thankful I am for everything you provide and do for me. Please forgive my shortcomings and self-centeredness, and accept my loving praise to You. I am truly thankful for the blessings which you have given me, not only today, but every day. Amen

May God bless you!

Sarah

Help Is Always There

"Hitting the road for Thanksgiving? Honk! is a new roadside-assistance app that can get you a tow truck and a ride to the repair shop, usually within 15 to 30 minutes, writes Jennifer Jolly. Sounds like a winner."  -Belton, Beth. "Honk! If You Need Help." USA Today 23 Nov. 2014, Money sec. Print.

Every now and then we find ourselves in a situation where help is needed. From the occasional flat tire during a downpour, locking your keys in the car at the shopping mall, to trying to find a babysitter at the last minute because your regular sitter suddenly became ill. Whatever the scenario, we are familiar with needing someone to help, or assist us.

You know, a funny thing about needing help is that many of us have a hard time accepting it. It's true! Maybe it's because we think that it makes us appear weak, dumb, or that we are simply incapable of being independent. Whatever the reason, it keeps us from seeking help when we really need it.

Listen, there's absolutely no shame in needing extra help. No shame, at all. It only means you’re normal. We were not made to do it all! No matter what the experts on television and radio squawk about, or the magazine articles tell you; we all need help from time to time. Amen to that!

César Chávez, American farm worker, labor leader and civil rights activist put it plainly when he said, “You are never strong enough that you don't need help.” This is so true. Our lives can transform in an instant. Our prosperity, health, jobs, are but a few fragile examples of commodities capable of blowing away in the next wind of change.

Therefore, as we enter the holiday season, we certainly should be thankful for the blessings given to us by Our Lord Jesus Christ. But, even more importantly, we should extend our help to those who are lacking. In Hebrews 6:10, we are told that God will not forget how we helped others when they needed it. He knows everything! He knows perfectly well all the love you've shown him by helping the needy -Hebrews 6:9-12 (MSG).

As I close, I remind you that just because someone needs help, doesn't necessarily mean they will ask for it. Pray that God may guide you to where help is needed the most. Without a doubt, there are many opportunites within your own communitiy where your Christian spirit of helping can be utilized.

Scripture: Hebrews 13:16; Philippians 2:4; Luke 6:38; 1 John 3:17; John 15:12

Prayer: Holy Father, there are so many who are need throughout the world, and even though I am only one; I pray that together, with other faithful followers, we can be generous, and caring examples of Your love to those in want. Amen

Have a blessed day!

Makinzie

Be Eternally Thankful

 In the midst of the storm, when the storm-battered vessel was plunging at its four anchors off the coast of Malta, Paul "gave thanks to God in presence of them all" (Acts 27:35). He could do that because he had faith in the word and promise God had given him.

Paul's reasons for gratitude to God cover the whole territory of human life and experience. He gives thanks for:

1) His daily bread (Acts 27:35)
2) Men who have faith in Christ (Romans 1:8)
3) Deliverance from anxiety (2 Corinthians 2:14)
4) Deliverance from temptation (Romans 7:25)
5) The memory of his friends (Philippians 1:3)
6) Kindness in the day of trouble (Acts 28:15)
7) The "unspeakable" gift (2 Corinthians 9:15)

Thankfulness can be a very volatile thing. Many times, our thankfulness focuses only on the physical things. Here's what I mean. We're thankful for our health; our families and our homes; our financial stability; and for the things we have. However, all of these things can change quickly. Health can deteriorate, families can break up, and bank accounts can disappear. Then what? How does this affect our thankfulness?

The point that I'm trying to make is that it's okay to be thankful for all the physical blessings we enjoy. There's certainly nothing wrong with that. But, we should learn to look beyond those unstable things to some things that never change. Things that remain constant throughout all the seasons of our lives. Let's call these things: unchanging reasons for thankfulness.

Beginning with Our Savior, there is his abiding presence; His assisting presence; His anchoring presence. No matter where life takes us we will never go there alone (Matthew 28:20; Isaiah 41:10).

Then there is our salvation. We can give God thanks that salvation is given freely (Isaiah 55:1; Revelation 22:17). We can be thankful for the pain of salvation. God paid an unimanageable price for us. Our salvation cost God the life of His Son (John 3:16). Even though he knew what we were, and what we would be like after He saved us; Jesus still died for our sins on the cross!

And what was the purpose of this? He died so that He might "sanctify the people." He saved us so that we might become different, and that He might be able to use us for His glory (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Finally, our world is constantly changing. If we put all of our hopes in this "physical" world, we'll be more disappointed than happy. Still, there is some good news! We can rejoice in the fact that this world is not the end of the road. Something much better awaits us.

We can be thankful that when our journey ends here we have a glorious place waiting for us. A place where we can rest from our labors, and delight in the awesome presence of the Lord. We don't know much about it now, but we do know that it will be trouble-free (Revelation 21:4). And, more importantly, we know that we will be with Jesus (John 14:1-3).

In closing, let's be thankful for all the things He gives us; and praise Him for our health, our families, our financial blessings, etc. Certainly, we shouldn't take them for granted, but we should learn to be more thankful for those things which we can never lose. Let's be ever thankful for those things that cannot change.

Then, when all physical blessings have faded away, and we find no reason for praise in them, let's thank the Lord that there are some things that will never change! It's in these things that we have an unchanging reason to be eternally thankful.

Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:18; Psalms 107:1; Ephesians 5:20; Philippians 4:6; Colossians 4:2

Prayer: Lord, you have given me so many reasons to be thankful. But the thing that I am most thankful for is the day I gave myself to you. Amen

God bless you!

Riley

Saturday Scripture Study with Bibi: When Two Become One...

Hello, everyone! Thank you for joining me again for Saturday Scripture Study. During this particular study series we will be discussing the parables of Jesus. He used parables as part of his teaching lessons. These parables contain powerful messages that are just beneath the surface of the story; which in turn motivate us to dig deeper, and learn how to better walk with Christ, Our Lord.

We are now at Week Eight of our series. This week we will discuss how by prophecy God foretold that he would send a Messiah into this world; though He would be unsatisfactory to the Jews. Then, unrecognizable to them as such, he (the Messiah) would be rejected and killed; thereby taking his throne over a spirtual kingdom open to all humankind.

Before we begin our study, let's pray together: God, you have made the heavens and the earth. You have revealed your beauty in creation and inspired the book that we are now about to study. Please help us now as we read together. Take us deeper into understanding more about you and your love for us. Amen.

Whether bungled, or denied by Premillenialists and Jews alike--the Messiah was to come into the world only to be spurned by his own countrymen and die. That humble submission to physical death was the last step to the throne of the kingdom of God.

Jesus was a Jew, of course. Thus, when he came to earth and began his ministry, he first approached those who should have recognized him from their prophecies. The few Gentiles with whom he had contact demanded his help by their persistence and pitiable state. Then the crumbs fell from the table of revelation to them, dogs as the Jews called them.

As I have provided here for your convenience, the fifty-second and fifty-third chapters of Isaiah's prophecy describe his earthly fate quite clearly:

I. Isaiah's Prophecy                                                           II. Fulfillment
-he will be exalted (Isaiah 52:13)                                        -Philippians 2:9
-he will be disfigured by suffering (Isaiah 52:14; 53:2)         - Mark 15:17, 19
-he will make a blood atonement (Isaiah 52:15)                  - 1 Peter 1:2
-he will be widely rejected (Isaiah 53:1-3)                           - John 12:37-38
-he will bear our sins and sorrows (Isaiah 53:4-5)            - Romans 4:25; 1 Peter 2:24-25
-he will be our substitute (Isaiah 53:6-8)                             - 2 Corinthians 5:21
-he will accept our guilt voluntarily (Isaiah 53:7-8)              - John 10:11, 19:30
-he will be buried in a rich man's tomb (Isaiah 53:9)            - John 19:38-42
-he will save the faithful (Isaiah 53:10-11)                           -John 3:16; Acts 6:31
-he will die on behalf of transgressors (Isaiah 53:12)            - Mark 15:27; Luke 22:37

Some time after Jesus had been  debased, then restored to his throne, Peter quoted Psalm 118:22 concerning him: "The stone which the builders rejected Has become the chief cornerstone." By prophecy, God foretold that the Messiah he would send into the world would not satisfy the Jews. Tha Messiah would be rejected and killed and thereby take possession of his throne over a spiritual kingdom open to all.

Isaiah also prophesied that the Gentiles would discern God's righteousness and enter as God gives his people a new name (Isaiah 62:2). In his death on the cross, Jesus reconciled man to God and also Jew to Gentile. Though "aliens to the commonwealth of Israel" and without hope before now Gentiles too are led close to Jehovah by his son's blood. Christ "has made both [Jew and Gentile] one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation...so as to create in himself one new man from the two" (Ephesians 2:14-15).

In lieu of judging the world by race, God mediates it by a higher standard: "Whoever fears God and works righteousness is accepted by Him" (Acts 10:35). That devoted person is called a Christian, meaning like Christ. "Christian" first appears in Acts 11:26, where the Greek word for "called" indicates a divine mandate.

Agrippa acknowledged this new brotherhood and sisterhood as Christians, and the apostle Peter encouraged them to stand patiently in that worthy calling. They were no longer Jew, Gentile, nor any sectarian name, but Christian.

Known as the parable of the New Wineskins (Matthew 9:16-17, Mark 2:21-22, Luke 5:36-38), Jesus teaches about the uncomfortable metamorphosis from Mosaic Judaism to New Testament Christianity. He anticipates that some will try to slip the new liberty of the gospel into the same old rituals and customs of the Law of Moses.

In the parable of the Wicked Vinedressers (Matthew 21:33-45, Mark 12:1-2, Luke 20:9-19), the same psalmist is quoted by Christ. Additionally, the execution of God's son is prophesied by the victim himself.

Finally, in the parable of the Great Supper (Luke 14:16-24), Jesus defines the guests in the kingdom of God as the "less likely," after the "more likely" turn down (by excuses) his invitation to come join him.

Questions:

1. Was the Jews' rejection of Jesus's claim to be their messiah a surprise to God?
2. What kind of picture does Isaiah paint of the Messiah's visit to earth?
3. What are the implications and fulfillment of Psalm 118:22?
4. What did Jesus's death accomplish for racial harmony in the world?
5. If God does not judge by heredity, how does he view each man?
6. What is represented by the old wineskins? What is represented by the new wineskins?
7. The Judaizing teachers in the first century church were the most likely to seek to bind characteristics of the Mosaic law on new converts. According to Galatians 5:1-6, what becomes of one who attempts to be justified by that law after obeying the gospel? (Also consult Galatians 4:8-11).
8. What lesson does this demonstrate for us today?
9. Whom did the chief priests and Pharisees perceive Jesus was condemning as the wicked vine dressers? Were they right? Who is the son then?
10. To whom was the kingdom of God given after the builders rejected its keystone?
11. What group of people in the world were invited first to come into the kingdom? What did they begin to make (Luke 14:18).
12. Whom were invited to come into the empty places then?

Until next time...

May your week be blessed!

Bibi

Video - Lisa Bevere: "Limitless"

From her teaching series "See It," Lisa Bevere reveals how she leaned on her handicap to escape her fears, but God's plans for her forced her to overcome them. Enjoy!   ~Eve

Freedom from Loneliness

"Loneliness and the feeling that nobody needs you is the worst kind of poverty."  -Mother Teresa

Whereas, for most loneliness is a temporary feeling, for far too many of us it's a recurring experience. In addition, loneliness can also lead to many other emotional issues, such as depression, anxiety, and anger. Charles Swindoll wrote that loneliness is no respecter of persons, or age, that it knows no boundaries—that it visits all people.

I'd like to suggest a cure for loneliness. It's nothing that dramatic, in fact, it's fairly simple. It's not something wild or crazy, you don't need a doctor's prescription, and is available anytime of the day or night. Sounds too good to be true? I mean, after all, people will attempt all kinds of things to escape from loneliness. In reality, the remedy for loneliness has always been there; freely accessible to everyone.

Beloved, why not accept God’s cure for your loneliness? You see, it's our sin that destroys our fellowship with God. But Jesus’ death on the Cross means that the walls have been torn down. When we give our lives to Christ, accept Him as the payment for all of our sin, and accept His forgiveness, we are washed clean of our guilt and shame. And with our acceptance of Christ as our Lord and Savior, God becomes our Heavenly Father. And as our Father: He loves us unconditionally, and accepts us just the way we are!

Loneliness is a personal choice for the believer. I’m not talking about the "every-now-and-then" moments we all experience, but the lingering, extensive loneliness. God has provided you with everything that you need. If you choose to live in loneliness, that's your choice. God has given us His Son, His Word, and all of the brothers and sisters in faith. Now, that doesn't sound "lonely" to me at all!

The Bible mentions nothing about a "going at it alone" mentality. Nearly every book in the New Testament was written to a community of believers. For instance, every time the word saint appears in Scripture it's plural. Also, most of the time when the word "you" is used in the New Testament (although we interpret it as 2nd person singular) it's 2nd person plural.

I might add that while individualism is very common today, it's totally unbiblical and foreign to New Testament Christianity. We would find ourselves a very splintered group without the unity of believers serving each other by employing their particular gifts.

As long as there have been people, there has been loneliness. It's always been part of the human experience. However, the freedom from loneliness begins at salvation. The early church father, Augustine, said “God created man for Himself and hearts are restless until they find rest in Him.” If you’ve never entrusted your life to Christ, you'll never be free from loneliness until you do.

Scripture: Isaiah 41:10; 1 Peter 5:7; Joshua 1:5; Psalm 23:4; Philippians 4:6-7  

Prayer: Dear Lord, I realize that loneliness is common to everyone. I just want you to know how much I love and appreciate you; knowing that you are always there for me, never further away than a prayer. Amen

God bless you!

Riley

Negativity Attracts Negativity

"As much as 77% of everything we think is negative, counterproductive, and works against us. People who grow up in an average household hear “No,” or are told what they can’t do, more than 148,000 times by the time they reach age 18. Result: Unintentional negative programming."   -Shad Helmstetter in Homemade, Jan., 1987

Wouldn't life be so much easier if we had total control over our thinking? And, even more so where our emotions are concerned? Just consider how quickly we could forget about the people who frustrate, or anger us. Or allow our disappointments to fade into the past without any condemnation. Sounds great, doesn't it?

However, this kind of emotional composure is quite unique. Many of us spend a lot of time thinking over troublesome feelings and weighing bitterness and regrets. Sadly, many of these mental perceptions of our feelings worsen the situation. What began as a small hurt or frustration, boosted by a thought process that focuses on pain and anger, may expand into a major hang-up.

It's unfortunate that because of our fallen nature, negativity comes very naturally. Like, how we tend to believe in the worst. And, the ease in which we can talk ourselves out of something by using negativity. For example, you want to try something new, what do you start thinking? "Well that’s not going to work." "There’s not enough time." "No one's going to like it." Negativity oozes out of us like honey.

Negativity is defined as: "the expression of criticism of or pessimism about something." Below, I have also included three brief facts about negativity that I hope will get you thinking. They are as follows:

First, negativity reflects what is going on inside a person. "For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:37). Here's a self-test for you: If you want to know the condition of your heart – listen to what's coming out of your mouth.

Next, negativity justifies itself. In other words, just because something looks right to you – doesn't necessarily mean it's right.

Of course, if you slip on rose-colored glasses everything will look pink and rosy. And, if you wear dark glasses everything will appear dark and gloomy. This illustrates that what you see is a product of your eyes. It isn't that difficult to get a distorted view of the world. It just depends on what you're looking through.

Here are some affirmations we might use to justify our emotions: “I have a right to be this way. Look at what's happened to me.” “Nobody likes me. I don't have any friends.” “You always act this way. You’re never going to change." Do these strike a chord with you?

May I ask you a simple question: "Is the glass half-empty or half-full?" Are you looking at the problems, or the possibilities? Which ever way you look at the glass you haven't changed the level of it one bit. But your perspective of it has changed. So take another look at that glass. Is it half-empty, or half-full?

Finally, negativity chooses your friends for you. Negativity always attracts negativity. This might be hard for most to accept, but if you what to know what kind of person you are; take a look at who's hanging around you. That's a real eye-opener, isn't it? Now might be an excellent time to clean house and make some changes in your life!

In closing, what's going on in your life? Are you living a life of negativity? Remember, Jesus said, “I have come to give life – and not just life – but abundant life” -John 10:10 (NET). So rise up! Stop wasting your time on negativity. Straighten up! Focus your time and energy on the positive.

Scripture: 1 Peter 5:8; Psalm 94:19; Philippians 4:8-9; Philippians 2:5; Hebrews 11:6

Prayer:  Lord, I can see and feel the negativity all around me every day. I pray that my heart is always focused on you, and that your love for me will provide all the positive energy I need to rise above it. Amen

May your day be blessed,

Shayna

Win the Race Against Discouragement

"Did you ever notice," said the old lady, smiling into the troubled face before her, "that when the Lord told the discouraged fishermen to cast their nets again, it was right in the same old place where they had caught nothing?

If we could only get off to some new place when we get discouraged, trying again would be an easier thing. If we could be somebody else, or go somewhere else, or do something else, it might not be so hard to have fresh faith and courage; but it is the same old net in the same old pond for most of us.

The old temptations are to be overcome, the old faults are to be conquered, the old trials and discouragements before which we failed yesterday to be faced again today. We must win success where we are, if we win it at all, and it is the Master Himself, who, after all these toilful, disheartening failures, bids us `try again.'  -Sunday School Times.

None of us is unfamiliar with discouragement. It's something that we all live with from time to time. As human beings, we are quite vulnerable to the pressures and burdens of life; allowing them to overwhelm us and cause hopelessness.

Even the great preacher Charles Spurgeon struggled with with discouragement. He said, "Discouragement … creeps over my heart and makes me go with heaviness to my work.… It is dreadfully weakening."

I enjoy running for excercise. Besides being good for my physical health, it also allows me the chance to clear my mind, and communicate with God. Whenever I find myself feeling discouraged I go for a run, and have a good long talk with God. By the time I'm finished I feel refreshed mentally, physically, and spiritually!

Maybe that's why Hebrews 12:1-3 speaks to me so loudly. There's a real connection there between running a long distance race. In this case, running a long distance, spiritual race. Let's see how this applies to our own lives.

Realistically speaking, no one wakes up one morning and decides to run a marathon that day. A marathon is the kind of race that requires lots of preparation. But, so does the spiritual race! If we're going to run a good race, then we have to prepare accordingly.

Anything that would restrict us from running well needs to be put aside. For example, runners will wear light weight clothing so that they might run faster and farther. They also train hard in order to get lean and light so that they can win their race. Can you even imagine a world-class athlete running a race in an big, heavy overcoat? Of course not! They shed everything they can in order to run without any restrictions.

What a great lesson this is for the Christian runner. Anything that has more of you than Jesus does has to go if you're going to run well! Whatever has your time, your attention, your resources, your strength, etc; just think of it as extra weight in your life. It has to be cast off if you're going to run well. If it isn't dealt with, if you put it off for the future, it will cause discouragement.

Likewise, we're told in this passage (Hebrews 12:1-3) that those besetting sins or any sin that seems to (or at least attempts to) overtake us on a regular basis, needs to be taken care of. Actually, did you know that you will still sin after you get saved? That's right, you will still sin! In fact, one of the biggest shocks of the Christian life is how easily you can sin after you have been saved!

We all know how that thought will still grow into lust. That word may still slip out every now and then. Your anger may flare up out of control now and them. Even your attitude might get lousy from time to time. Being saved doesn't prevent you from sinning, but your sinning does prevent you from running your race well. We are surrounded by things, and situations that can cause us to sin!

That's why we it's so imperative that we: remove ourselves from their presence, get away from places where they can take place, and guard ourselves against their attack. We must get radical and honest about the sins that afflict us as believers.

You will find that God will give you victory over the things that hinder your race. Don't let the obstacles of life, and the entrapments of sin cause you to become discouraged in your race for Jesus. Run with endurance and keep your eyes fixed on Him.

Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11; Proverbs 3:5-6; Joshua 1:9; 1 Peter 5:7; Romans 15:13

Prayer: Dear Lord, even though I may be discouraged today, I will continue to run the spiritual race with my head straight and my eyes focused on you at the finish line of life. I know it's not a race to see who finishes first, but to finish the race suitable and available to be with You. Amen

God bless you!

Miranda

He Permanently Dwells Within Us

"Do you not discern and understand that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit has His permanent dwelling in you?"  -1 Corinthians 3:16.

The Apostle Paul was in Ephesus when he wrote to the Christians in distant Corinth, "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God?" (I Corinthians 3:16). Ephesus was a city renowned throughout the world for its temple to Diana.

As he wrote, Paul may have been looking out on that glorious temple, with its 120 pillars of Parian marble, doors of carved cypress wood, a magnificent cedar roof, supported by columns of jasper, its masterpieces of Praxiteles and Phidias, its great altar, and the monstrous image of Diana, ever shrouded in thick darkness. That was the pagan world's idea of a temple. Of its kind, it has never been outdone.

However, the apostle of Jesus Christ had another idea of a temple. As he looked out from the school of Tyrannus, where he wrote and taught, and saw the flashing splendors of the marvelous shrine to Diana, he thought of another and a more glorious temple.

Thus, to the believers at Corinth he wrote of the temple of the body, God's incomparable temple, compared with which the Fourth Wonder of the World was but a poor and mean thing. Indeed, man could make the temple of Diana, but only God could make the "temple of man."

If God simply meant to communicate the idea that the Spirit dwells within the believer, He certainly could have used words like: “home,” “house,” or “residence.” But, by deciding on the word “temple” to describe the Spirit’s home, He imparts the idea that our bodies are the shrine, or the sacred place, in which the Spirit not only lives, but is worshiped, revered, and honored.

Therefore, how we behave, think and speak, and what we let into the temple through our eyes and ears becomes critically important as well, for every thought, word and deed is in His view (Hebrews 4:13).

If you recall, Christ symbolically destroyed the old temple and the old system through His death. He said "Destroy the temple and I will rebuild it in three days" but He wasn't speaking of reforming or rebuilding an earthly religious system or building; He was making reference to Himself, His Body which was resurrected as the new House of God and of which we are each a part (1 Corinthians 12:27; Ephesians 2:21,22).

As a result, people didn't need to go to a temple or attend the synagogue to meet God anymore. Now, they were the temples and vessels containing the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians  6:19, 2 Corinthians 6:16)

What this means is that the Holy Spirit resides within us. And for that reason, we are to honor God with our bodies since they “are not [our] own,” as Paul said. We have in truth been bought with a price. And it was not gold or silver or other perishable things by which we were redeemed; it was with the precious, unblemished blood of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19).

Determined by God before the foundation of the world (Acts 2:23), Christ’s blood purchased us out of the slavery of sin and set us free forever. Therefore, Christian’s bodies are God’s temple, we are to use them to glorify God.

In closing, God the Father created our bodies, God the Son redeemed us, and God the Holy Spirit resides inside each of us (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). This makes our body the actual temple of the Holy Spirit of God.

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 Corinthians 6:20;  1 Corinthians 10:31; Psalm 100:3; 1 Peter 2:24

Prayer: Holy Father, thank you for taking on all of our sins as your own; and then dying for us so that we might find eternal life with you. You paid the ultimate price for us since we were hopelessy incapable of doing so ourselves. And, because of your unselfish sacrifice we are no longer under the authority of death, but with faith, and love can now look forward to returning home to You someday. Amen

May your day be blessed!

Kristi

Saturday Scripture Study with Bibi: God Resists the Proud

Hello, everyone! Thank you for joining me this week for Saturday Scripture Study. During this study series we will be discussing the parables of Jesus. He used parables as part of his teaching lessons. These parables contain powerful messages that are just beneath the surface of the story; which in turn motivate us to dig deeper, and learn how to better walk with Christ, Our Lord.

We are now at Week Seven of our series. This week we will discuss how our own foolish pride can prevent us from coming to the Lord. How is this possible? Being who and what we are, we sometimes think we're "all that and a bag of chips." In other words, we think we can get along on our own merits without Christ in our lives.

Before we begin our study, let's pray together: God, you have made the heavens and the earth. You have revealed your beauty in creation and inspired the book that we are now about to study. Please help us now as we read together. Take us deeper into understanding more about you and your love for us. Amen.

Both Peter and Paul, quote Proverbs 3:34 which says that "God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble." Similarly, this view was conveyed by distressed, patient Job (Job 22:29) and Psalm 138. And, if there's any barrier that will hamper our coming to the Lord, it will most assuredly be our own foolish human pride.

Also, I might mention here that during this time period, excessive pride (hubris) was frequently the undoing of many great heroes of ancient literature. It's quite possible that the writers themselves may have been influenced by these sacred writings.

Taking a closer look at "pride," we discover that Thayer defines the Greek word "huperephania" as "...the characteristic of one who, with a swollen estimate of his own powers or merits, looks down on others and even treats them with insolence and contempt." This is why pride is frequently described as looking down one's nose at another. Here's something for you. Whenever you're feeling a little too high and mighty, a quick read of Romans 3:23 should knock you down a notch or two!

Have you ever given thought as to why pride impedes us from coming to God for salvation? It's because salvation asks for submitting one's will to another's, specifically Jehovah. People in awe with their own excellence and power are not very likely to stifle their own desires in order to accommodate those of anyone else, even the creator of the universe.

In Romans 14:11, Paul brings to mind that "Every knee shall bow to [God] and every tongue shall confess to God." Thus, a proud person realizes the difficulty of admitting that he is lesser than another, even God, and so he refuses to submit himself to the Lord.

Different things can become sources of human pride. These can include, money, power, appearance, education, connections, heredity, prospects and accomplishments, to name just a few. Trusting any of these will cause us to become too big-headed (prideful) even for Christ. Consequently, trusting in them prevents us from giving ourselves fully to him without any second-thoughts.

The simplicity of the gospel message is a dangerous sin to those who are proud of their intellect. During the first century, the gospel tripped up the Jews because they needed signs more than actual teaching. Additionally, it caused to Greeks to falter because they loved the controversy and poetry of philosophy rather than simply stated sayings and commands (1 Corinthians 1:22).

Conversely, humility takes every origin of pride and sets it in its proper place. Money vanishes when spent; power fades quickly when compared to God's authority; appearance means nothing when Jesus was born into a ordinary body; education is hollow compared to the wisdom from above; connections are defective unless made first with heaven; heredity is surpassed by adoption into God's house. The only possibility that matters is a heavenly hope; and only Christ's attainment is powerful enough to save.

This week, we shall examine two of the best-known parables in the Bible. Honestly, each teaches more than just humility. However, it is this trait that will be our focus of discussion.

Luke 15:11-32 is known as the parable of the Prodigal Son. Here, Jesus enlightens us about returning to our Father after leaving in search of sinful fulfillment. Everyone who sins can recognize themselves wallowing around in the pig slop of iniquity.

We are overjoyed at his return to his father with repentance in his heart, and are inspired when his father meets him with total acceptance. God invites the prodigal in us all to come without delay and be redeemed. We must do so in humility, even though the proud man would never return and beg for mercy.

Luke 18:9-14 is the parable about the Pharisee and Tax Collector. In this particular passage, we listen in as two men pray to God. Jesus was specifically talking to "some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others." Telling God everything you've done well is vain, because he can see, judge and even understand the sins we try to hide.

But, telling God all you've done wrong is humble, because it begs him to forgive and strengthen. The humble man went home justified because he repented his sin. The proud man didn't because he kept his sin hidden, therefore remaining with him.

Questions:

1. Who's to blame for God's resistance of the proud?
2. In your own words, what is pride?
3. What single verse ought to destroy every idea of human pride and jealousy?
4. Why does pride make it impossible for one to come to Jesus and be saved?
5. What can become a source of human pride?
6. Is it wrong to possess any of these things? What makes them so dangerous?
7. Whom is represented by the prodigal son? Whom is represented by his father?
8. What happened to the prodigal son after he left home?
9. What realization finally struck him when he hit rock bottom? What did he decide to do then?
10. Does the older brother react to his sibling's conversion from pride to humility?
11. What two men went up to pray? Describe the stereotypical view of their professions then.
12. What was the general tone of the first man's prayer?
13. What was the general tone of the second man's prayer?
14. Why did the latter go home justified while the former was not?

Until next time...

May your week be blessed!

Bibi

Hello?.. Is Anyone There?

Teenage prostitutes, during interviews in a San Francisco study, were asked: "Is there anything you needed most and couldn't get?" Their response, invariably preceded by sadness and tears, was unanimous: "What I needed most was someone to listen to me. Someone who cared enough to listen to me."   -Jim Reapsome, Homemade.

You've probably discovered that listening is not an easy thing to do. Now, I'm talking about really listening! As a matter of fact, for most of us speaking is generally easier to do. Did you know that listening is a skill to be developed much like writing, playing a sport, or drawing? Of course, there's some talent involved in those things, but barring any medical or physical ailments, most of us have the ability to listen.

Why is listening so difficult? Let's just say that there are many reasons for poor listening. However, for my money, I think the biggest cause of poor listening is the lack of attention. We simply don't pay enough attention to what's being said!

We simply assume that listening is an automatic process, don't we? And, the lack of attention is likely to be more obvious when we're not interested in the topic of discussion. No big surprise here! I mean, even when we're paying close attention we may be distracted by a phone call, the television, or something else going on around us.

What usually happens, if we feel that no one is listening to us? Frustration? Anger? Rejection? Take the apostle Paul, for example. Here was a man who could have assumed that God doesn't listen to us. After all, he insistently pleaded with God to intervene for him in a chronic ordeal (2 Corinthians 12:7-8).

Paul could have shrugged his shoulders and walked off thinking that God wasn't interested. But, this was not the case. As it happens, God did answer him; maybe not in the way Paul was expecting, but He did respond with: "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians:12:9).

We have to believe that God is and that He does listen to us. We must have faith in Him (Hebrews 11:1). He loves when we come to him and ask him to help us. He wants to give us what we need, not what we think we need. Yes, sometimes our answers aren't what we want, or expect. They may even take longer to get back to us than we like.

Rest assured that God hears your every prayer, or plea no matter if you speak it, sing it, or think it. It's not about how you communicate with Him, it's about having faith that He is always listening. Unlike most of us, God is an awesome listener. Even if you don't get an immediate response, He will get back to you. Be patient, and know that whatever, whenever, or however He answers, it will be His best, loving answer for you.

Scripture: 1 John 5:14,15; Hebrews 11:6; Isaiah 30:19; Psalm 86:7; Matthew 21:22

Prayer: Dear God, you are always available when I need a caring, sympathetic ear whether in time of difficulty, trouble, indecision, sickness, or loneliness. It gives me a great sense of security, and comfort to know that you stand ready at any hour to listen to me. And that you offer a carefully considered response that is always in my best interest. Amen

Have a blessed weekend!

Shelley

God, the Ultimate Stress Reliever!

"Stressed spelled backwards is "desserts." -Loretta Laroche

Stress is nothing new. It's been around as long as humans have lived on this earth. As a matter of fact, we're responsible for most, if not all, of the stress we bring on ourselves. But, there was one person who, even though he could have opted out, chose to experience our stress in order to understand it and help us. Jesus wanted to feel the stress of living in this sinful world; to experience our pain, suffering, and desperation. And experience it he did!

Was Jesus stressed out about Herod when he was told that he would kill him? Did he stress about any of the high priests, Scribes and Pharisees; though he knew they would capture and deliver him to the Gentiles to be scourged, and crucified? Was he stressed thinking about Judas and the men who came to get him? Did Pilate his judge, who had no power against him other than what was given him, stress him out? I will gather a guess that he was, and it did. Why? Jesus was human, like us, remember?

But, Jesus had someone to back him up; to support him. He had the Heavenly Father on his side. He knew that no matter what anyone here on earth could do to him, something far greater awaited him. Wouldn't it be wonderful to feel that peacefulness, confidence, comfort, security, and love that he must have felt? The wonderful news is that we can! Thankfully, because of Jesus, the same can be had for those who truly believe.

Faithful believers have no reason to be afraid of what man can do to them, especially when grace applied (Psalm 56:4). "The LORD is on my side, I am not afraid! What can people do to me?" Psalm 118:6 (NET) urges us to pause and ask ourselves, "Who do I really have to fear? What can another person (made of mere flesh, blood, and bone) do to me?

Perhaps you're feeling like the world is closing in on you right now. Is the pressure of your family, job, or social life getting to you? Maybe your marriage is going through some shaky times right now? Are bill collectors making your life difficult with their persistent calls? Or, did you just get a less than favorable diagnosis from the doctor? Whatever the reason, life isn't very fun right now, and the stress just keeps piling up, and up, and up...

Stress is a part of being alive. And, as long as we are here, stress won't be too far away. So what can be done about it? Is it too much to ask for help? Psalm 118:5 (NET) says that, "In my distress I cried out to the LORD. The LORD answered me and put me in a wide open place." He plucked me from my stressful situation, where I was in trouble and sinking fast. The walls were closing in on me; He took me out of a distressing situation and gave me some badly needed breathing room. He took me to a spacious space (Psalm 118:5).

God wants you to know right now that he is, and will be with you. No matter what's stressing you out. You don’t have to be afraid, terrified,  stand there trembling, or give in. God is on your side, and will fight for you. It doesn't matter what the odds against you are. The Lord is on your side. It doesn't matter if the circumstances seem impossible. The Lord is on your side. It doesn't matter if the situation is greater than you are. Almighty God is on your side!

Scripture: Hebrews 13:6; Psalm 56:11; Psalm 86:2; Isaiah 41:10; Luke 12:4

Prayer: Dear Father, even though may be feeling helpless and hopeless today: I know that you are always there to lift me up; to raise me and renew my spirit. There is nothing that will I fear, as long as you are with me. Amen

May your day be blessed!

Bonnie

To Never Thirst Again...

"...But whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”  -John 4:14 (ESV)

I have a question for you: "Have you ever been extremely thirsty?" Pretty much everyone knows the feeling of intense thirst and craving something to drink, especially when using up a lot of energy. The thought of summer comes to mind, when our bodies perspire under the hot sun, and literally scream for more liquids.

Let me expand on this and ask, "How many of us have journeyed through the desert without water to the point of serious, life-threatening dehydration?" I'm talking the painful, thirst for water similar to that experienced by Hagar and her son in the wilderness of Beersheba (Genesis 21:14f).

Furthermore, thirst is naturally used in Scripture when discussing both physical and spiritual thirst. This naturally addresses two things: (1) of the appetite, longing, or desire to quench one’s thirst, but also (2) of a state of dryness in which there is the necessity of liquid to quench the thirst, to refresh, and be protected from the life-threatening problems of dehydration

Here are a few more examples of thirst as it is used in the Bible: Psalm 42:1-2 (NET); Matthew 5: 6 (NET); Revelation 7:16-17 (NET). As you can see, the concept of thirst becomes a powerful tool when used to communicate spiritual truth in the Bible.

Unquestionably, we all go through times when life is painful and God feels remotely distant. But, it's during these times when our thirst for God is extreme, that we find inspiration in the promise of Jesus to provide us with living water. That is, water that satisfies our deep thirst for God. I'm not speaking about external water to satisfy our persistent physical need, but an internal and eternal source of reliable spiritual, life-giving water.

How many times has the inability of worldly things to quench our thirst and give real satisfaction to our souls, truly affected us? Has this happened often enough to change our values, priorities, and goals? And like Hagar, have our eyes opened to see the well that God has furnished, and go there to fill our skin with the water of His life?

In closing, there are many different types of thirst. There's the thirst for: power, romance,control, knowledge, adventure, success, justice, and so on. But the thirst for God is at the very core of our being. It's the way we were made. And there's only One who can quench this deep thirst!

Scripture: John 7:38; Isaiah 55:1; Psalms 42:1-2; Matthew 5:6; Revelation 21:6-7

Prayer: Holy Father, in this world of pretentiousness and quick gratification, my soul yearns for so much more; there is a deep thirst and hunger that can only be satisfied by You. I pray that I may come to your fountain of living waters and satisfy my parched, dry spirit. Then, and only then , will I find fulfillment and peace. Amen

God bless you!

Lacee

Video - Beth Moore: A Fresh Awakening

From the "Awaken Now" conference, Beth Moore urges us to seek a fresh awakening every day so that our faith does not become stale and inactive. Enjoy!   ~Eve

A Safe Refuge

"Be my strong refuge, to which I may resort continually; you have given the commandment to save me, for you are my rock and my fortress."  -Psalm 71:3 (NKJV)

The world can be a cruel place to live. You only have to watch the latest news broadcast, or read the daily news to verify this. Wars, disease, racial and religious strife, killings, financial woes, and the list goes on and on. Sounds pretty scary doesn't it?

We all yearn for a place where we can get away from all of this, if only for a precious while. Some take the so-called "easy way out." They turn to drugs, alcohol, illicit activities, or worse. Of course, we are all too aware of the outcome when this road is taken. And, it usually ends badly.

You've probably been told, or have heard that "life isn't easy." It isn't. No one ever said that it would be. Everyday is different, and with every day comes a new set of problems, or situations (Matthew 6:34).

At one time or another, everyone's felt as if they've been backed into a corner, or boxed in. It's usually at this point that the "easy way out" sounds really inviting. Yes, the temptation can be very strong. But, know that "God is faithful" and "he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. And, "when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it" (1 Corinthians 10:13). We need a safe, secure place where we can find refuge.

So, where is this safe place that you and I can go to find safety, or rest from the world? That warm. comforting  abode where outside dangers can't touch us? You don't have to look too hard to find it. It's with God! Do you remember how people long ago lived inside castles, or fortresses constructed from strong stone? They were usually surrounded by a protective barricade of some sort? Even those who lived outside the walls could find refuge within during times of danger.

This is the type of strong habitation that God provides for us, only much better. Think of him as a rock, or strong hold that we can turn to during times of upheaval, sickness, turmoil, depression, worry, etc. He is always there, His door is always open, at anytime of the day or night. No special invitation is needed.

Dear friends, we all want to feel protected, needed, and loved. We all need that refuge, dwelling, or home where we feel welcome no matter what. We long for that safe retreat; or special place of healing and renewal. Who among us doesn't want that, or need that from time to time?

Merriam-Webster defines "refuge" as: a place that provides shelter or protection. God is the real deal! He is a blessed and enduring place of refuge, offering security, comfort and permanent residence. And here's the best part. You don't have to spend thousands of dollars, or travel vast distances to find Him. He's as close as your heart and a prayer.

Scripture: 2 Samuel 22:2; Psalm 18:2; Psalm 31:2; Psalm 31:3; Psalm 91:9

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for this and every day. If my heart is full of troubles today, please give me the wisdom to deal with them so that I may find peace. Amen

God bless you!

Riley

Saturday Scripture Study with Bibi: Is It Worth It?

Hello, everyone! Thank you for joining me for another Saturday Scripture Study. During this study series we will be discussing the parables of Jesus. He used parables as part of his teaching lessons. These parables contain powerful messages that are just beneath the surface of the story; which in turn motivate us to dig deeper, and learn how to better walk with Christ, Our Lord.

We are now at Week Six of our series. This week we will discuss the cost of following Christ. Many followers are ridiculed and even punished for their belief. It's not a decision that everyone can commit to. Inevitably, we must ask ourselves, "Is it worth it?"

Before we begin our study, let's pray together: God, you have made the heavens and the earth. You have revealed your beauty in creation and inspired the book that we are now about to study. Please help us now as we read together. Take us deeper into understanding more about you and your love for us. Amen.

"What will it cost me?" "Is it worth it?" These are heavy questions that potential disciples of Christ must ask themselves before making a commitment to follow Him.

An individual must carefully consider the advantages of committing to Jesus, as opposed to the potential suffering that one will probably experience by their decision to move forward with this. In addition, they must also decide if a life-long devotion to Christ, and denial of sinful pleasures is feasible.

What is the cost of becoming a believer? It's huge. In fact, Paul told Timothy that, " all those who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution" (2 Timothy 2:12). Unfortunately, the only way to get around this is by rejecting Jesus, or becoming a Christian hypocrite. Either way, your goose is cooked!

Paul responded that this (our suffering) was a small price to pay in comparison with his hope. "Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.  For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen" (2 Corinthians 4:16-17).

Paul sized up the cost of discipleship and measured it by relative time. He felt that it was indeed worth paying the price on earth temporarily in order to score, or attain the benefits eternally in heaven.

There is yet another cost of being a disciple of Christ; and that is paid by self-denial: "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age" (Titus 2:11-12). The temptations of ungodliness and its pleasures are strong, to say the least. But, the bona fide disciple must be able to block out their influence and spurn their gratification. For instance, Christians relinquish the right to fornicate, drink and swear that others engage in. Therefore, is the hope of salvation worth paying this price?

Paul commanded the Corinthian believers to retreat from sexual immorality, "For you were bought at a price: therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's" (1 Corinthians 6:20). Consequently, whenever we're adding up the cost, it's a good time to remember that God purchased our souls from eternal condemnation with his own precious blood (Acts 20:28; Romans 6:23).

In Luke 14:25-35 (the parables of building a tower and making war), Jesus plainly spells out this requirement. Staring with the need to put faith ahead of everything else, including family, life and convenience, he illustrates his proposal on devotion. Building your own faith on the messianic foundation takes a life-long perseverance and sacrifice. Declaring war on Satan's campaign requires a commitment to fight, and to win by channeling everything you have to the battle. Unless you make faith the chief priority, you can't be his disciple.

Using the parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18:1-8, Jesus gives a lesson on faithful prayer. This is prayer that believes God can deliver to he, or she who continually hungers and thirsts after his righteousness. God will settle the score for those believers that cry out to him, and don't quit before reaching life's finish line.

In Luke 11:5-13, the parable of the friend in need, Christ reminds us of the frailty of true, saving faith. It's achieved only by those whose hearts are hungry for God's mercy. We're reminded of his Sermon on the Mount and its Beatitudes: " Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. For they shall be filled" (Matthew 5:6). Many people are filled well before the goal and simply stop. They play around at religion without letting it completely change their hearts. To be sure, we should never be too satisfied for grace and knowledge until we take our final earthly breaths.

These parables lay bare the importance of implementing a search for truth, and seeing it through to the very end. We should do this as soon as possible to avoid being disqualified along the way by immorality, or complacency. Additionally, and very importantly, we must not forget to first consider the cost of discipleship, rather than starting something that we have no intention of committing ourselves to.

Questions:

1. What does Jesus compel his followers to ask themselves before becoming disciples?
2. What price of discipleship did Paul reveal to Timothy in 2 Timothy 3:12?
3. How did Paul justify paying this price in his own life?
4. What is a second cost of discipleship, according to Titus 2:11-12?
5. What things might fall into these categories?
6. At what price were we redeemed from slavery to sin and death?
7. What things does Jesus say we must hate (love less) than him?
8. What does it mean to bear one's cross?
9. What should a man do before building a tower? How does this apply to becoming a disciple?
10. What does a king do before declaring war? How does this apply?
11. What is true of the follower who is not willing to forsake all he has, if necessary?
12. How did the widow convince the judge to avenge her? How often must believers cry out to God?
13. Why did the neighbor finally arise to help his friend in need that night?
14. What three actions are required to receive good from God (Luke 11:9-10)? What one word would you use to describe this pursuit (answers may vary)?

Until next time...

May your week be blessed!

Bibi

Setting The Bar Higher

"As water never rises above its level, so what we do never rises above what we are...We shall never take people one hair's breadth beyond our own spiritual attainment. We may point to higher things, but we shall only take them as far as we ourselves have gone.   -W.H. Griffith Thomas.

Where are you in your relationship with God today? Do you feel as close as you should be? Is your faith in the Lord growing deeper each day? When He speaks, are you inspired to go? Do you feel the need to strengthen your fellowship with Him every day? Is the number one priority in your life to worship Him?

Yes, these are certainly challenging questions. But, they exhibit a lot about the state of our relationship with Jesus. Plainly speaking, are you growing in Christ? Currently, we are bombarded with talk about church growth, building progressively larger churches with ever-increasing crowds of people. True, this is all well and good to some extent. But, more importantly than church growth is: individual, personal, and spiritual growth.

The apostle Peter raises the issue of growth in 1 Peter 2:1-3. Here, Peter writes to the Christians, after having told them in 1 Peter 1:23 that they had been born again by the power of God's Word. As a result, he issues puts them to the task on this (1 Peter 2:1).

Peter communicates three commands to the believers. Remember, he's not talking to the unsaved at this point. He's talking strictly to believers, or those who have been born again. The first is that as believers they should put off any malice, deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of any kind (1 Peter 2:1). God summons us as believers to a higher standard. As such, He desires that believers should not conform themselves to this world, but instead transform themselves through the renewal of their understanding.

Secondly, we should longing to learn more about God. We should have a hunger to know Him better, or grow closer to Him. Believers should have a passion for the Word of God and Jesus Christ. This might be difficult for many to do in our modern world with all of its energy and attention sapping distractions. But, he who is truly born again, Peter says, will crave these things (1 Peter 2:2).

Lastly, when you have turned away from the wrong things, and truly have a passion for God, then you are ready for the third command. What is it? To learn as much as possible about God. It's at this point that you grow in salvation. Look, if you're not growing in you salvation, then you're wasting away spiritually.

Peter says, "People you were born again by the Word of God. But now, grow in respect to your salvation" (1 Peter 2:1). And that's what this life starts turning into; one of increasing growth in the knowledge of God. We start to undeniably see Him as the greatest treasure in all the world.

Maybe some of you are thinking, "Is it too late to learn?" "Is it too late for me?" No, it's never too late to passionately learn, and grow in your knowledge of Our Lord!

Scripture: 2 Peter 3:18; Hebrews 6:1; 1 Timothy 4:15; Philippians 1:9; Matthew 6:33

Prayer: Holy Father, I love you more than I can ever say. Thank you for all you have done and all you will do. As I go out into the world today, please guide me so I may show the love and mercy you have given me. Amen

May God bless you!

Amy Lynn

Our Choices...Make Us

A pig ate his fill of acorns under an oak tree and then started to root around the tree. A crow remarked, "You should not do this. If you lay bare the roots, the tree will wither and die." "Let it die," said the pig. "Who cares as long as there are acorns?"   -Bits & Pieces, February, 1990, p. 24.

Consequences. Robert Lewis Stevenson, the great 19th century Scottish novelist who wrote the classics Treasure Island, and Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde said, "Sooner or later everyone sits down to a banquet of consequences." Galatians 6:7 tells us that "a man reaps what he sows."  And of course, the time-honored, "What goes around comes around."

What are the implications for us, especially as followers of Christ? Let's use ourselves as an example. The person that you see in the mirror is the result of your past experiences. You may not like what you see, but as they say, "It is what it is!" Everything we are today (our position, character, attitude, etc.) is the result of things we have done.

I know it isn't the easiest thing to do, but we need to take ownership of things we have done. It's easy to blame our parents, society, environment, or a dozen other reasons. But, these things impact us only as much as we let them. The responsibility is ours to own up to. God will command that we do so one day (2 Corinthians 5:10).

I must admit, this all sounds pretty dreary. Still, there is some encouraging news! We can begin by looking at this from another angle. What I'm suggesting is that what we are tomorrow, will be the result of what we do today. It's not too late to change! (2 Corinthians 5:17).

There's only one small detail. This kind of change happens very slowly (Romans 12:1-2; 1 Peter 2:1-2). It takes time and perseverance. But, you have to change how you do things today, if you want better results down the road. Thus, you become what you do!
   
The apostle Paul used the agricultural  principle of sowing and reaping to illustrate his point in Galatians 6:7. In actuality, we have two choices; both determine "what we reap". As a matter of fact, we're not sad victims of fate, bad luck or even predestination. Our destiny is determined by our decision: shall we "sow" to the sinful nature (the flesh), or to the Spirit?

Concisely speaking, sowing to please the flesh will always result in a harvest of destruction; a destruction of relationships with others, and with God (Galatians 5:15, 26). On the other hand, sowing to please the Spirit means "serving one another in love" (Galatians 5:13), restoring one who has been caught in sin (Galatians 6:1), carrying the burdens of others (Galatians 6:2), giving generously to those who teach in the church (Galatians 6:6) and doing good to all (Galatians 6:9). The harvest of sowing to the Spirit is eternal life.

As of yet, we haven't experienced total harmony in these relationships. This is because the battle between the Spirit and the sinful nature rages on. However, those who proceed to grow in these relationships by the power of the Spirit will ultimately experience the fullness of eternal life; perfect harmony in relationship with God and others.

Consider that every choice has a consequence. If one makes wise, godly decisions, they can expect  to be rewarded by God for their faithfulness. If one makes hasty or sinful choices, they can expect unfavorable consequences (Gal. 6:7-8).

“We all make choices, but in the end our choices make us.”  -Ken Levine, writer/director

God bless you!

Lori

Only God Knows...

In February 1980, the U.S. Olympic hockey team slipped its foot into a glass slipper and walked away with a gold medal at Lake Placid, New York. Those collegians had shocked the world by upsetting the powerful Soviet team, and then they grabbed the championship from Finland while the crowd chanted, "U.S.A.!"

Before his team's victory over the Soviet Union which advanced them to the finals, the coach of the U.S. hockey team told his players, "You are born to be a player. You are meant to be here at this time. This is your moment."   -Today in the Word, July, 1990, p. 11.

All of us, at one time or another, have wondered, "What's my purpose in life?" There are those of us who have felt a deep sense of purpose since early childhood. For others, they may discover their purpose later on in life. Of course, it really doesn't matter when it becomes apparent. The important thing is that we all have been given a purpose for being here, at this particular time. It's a purpose that was determined before we were born (Psalm 139:16).

God created you. You were uniquely made by Him. There is no one else like you. God knows us intimately. He knew our beginning, and He knows our ending. Make no mistake. the Lord has always known what you could be and do. Thus, God has a purpose, or reason for you. Think of it as your destiny. "What is my destiny?" you ask. It's simply this: destiny is God's purpose for your life. It's your ordained future. Destiny is what God, in His divine will, has predetermined us to be, and become.

Certainly, we may reach the culmination of our profession, or be acclaimed as the best in the world at a specific sport, skill, craft, etc., according to a given benchmark. However, unless we steadfastly factor God into our lives and strive to love and serve Him with all our heart, we have not reached our full effectiveness.

Each one of us is born into situations which contain features that are both good and bad. All of us will face varying levels of goodness and evil; just as everyone will face the actuality of life and death. God created you, equipped, and then infused you with His Holy Spirit in order to face these situations. And, along with His help and guidance, we will transform from death to life, evil to good, and bad to best.

Friends, only God knows the limits of our potential. We are finite beings and don't have the capability to grasp everything that God has planned for us. No one can fully understand the deepness of His love, the help that He longs to give, or the blessings and rewards that He has arranged for us.

Thus, if you've ever wondered why you're here on this earth, i.e., "What's my purpose in life?" understand that God has placed you here as a distinctive person with an exclusive purpose intended for establishing and extending His kingdom "on earth as it is in heaven." Your potential lies securely and completely in that purpose.

Clearly, our purpose on this earth is to develop our God-given gifts, talents, and abilities to their fullest potential so we can influence the world around us for Christ. Accordingly, no one can reach his, or her potential without the Father's help, or apart from our God-given talents and gifts. Pray and ask Him to give you direction as to your particular purpose here.

Above all, always remember, it doesn't matter how much you may have already achieved, your level of expertise, education, or even your age; there's still so much more that God has for you to be and do!

Scripture: Jeremiah 29:11; Proverbs 3:5-6; Romans 8:28; Proverbs 16:9; 1 Corinthians 2:9

Prayer:  Dear Lord, what is Your will that I do? I am completely open to Your plan for me. I desire to live only in You and to be guided by You forever. Grant that Your holy will may be carried out perfectly in me. Amen

Have a blessed day!

Amaris

Encourage One Another!

"We can't all be heroes because someone has to sit on the curb and clap as they go by."  -Will Rogers, American humorist and social commentator

Merriam-Webster.com defines "encouragement" as: something that makes someone more determined, hopeful, or confident. Encouragement plays an important part in our lives, especially as Christians. In fact, we see various examples of encouragement throughout the Bible. Undoubtedly, the struggling, early church probably wouldn't have survived without it (1 Thessalonians 5:11; 1 Peter 4:8-10; Philippians 2:3-4).

We can safely say that one who provides words of encouragement, is really helping another become bolder and braver. And, by way of giving encouragement he/she is adding courage to that person. Which in turn, is helping him/her stand firmer and go farther.

Examine Hebrews 3:13, "But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called "Today," so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness." This verse talks about encouraging each other. Sounds good, but how can we do this? Are there any hard and fast rules that need to be followed?

Actually, it's really not that complicated. For example, we can encourage one another with our words. One of the most common ways in which we encourage others is when we tell them how much we appreciate them (Proverbs 25:11). Pretty simple, right?

We've all heard these words: "Actions speak louder than words." How true! People do indeed notice what you do. What this tells us, is that we're setting an example for others by our actions (James 1:22).

Yet, another way we can encourage each other is by our attitude. Think about this. Some people see life full of problems, while others see life full of challenges. What's your outlook on life? No question that we encourage one another by our attitudes (Philippians 4:13).

Remember, God gives us strength to meet the daily challenges that we face. If you trust in Him – He will give you strength too. Therefore, place your faith in Him. You can count on God because He is always encouraging, and loving you.

Dear friends, I challenge you to encourage others. Encourage one another with the words you speak to them. Tell them how much you appreciate them, how much you love them. Encourage others by your example. Remember..."action speaks louder than words." Speak up by being performers of the word.

Lastly, show people how much you love them by being loving toward them. Encourage others by having a positive outlook on life. After all,  if Christ is in your life then you are in God’s hands. As He is definitely big enough to care for all.

Scripture: Deuteronomy 31:6; Isaiah 41:10; Psalm 55:22; Romans 8:6; John 14:27

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to walk in your light, and live my life in faith and glory. In your name I pray, Amen.

May God bless you!

Sarah

Yes, You Have A Choice...But Choose Wisely!

This clip from the film classic, The Ten Commandments, shows Moses asking his people to choose whether to follow God, or not. The question itself is as old as man himself: "Should I follow God, or not?" You may recall that God, in his infinite wisdom and love, gave us our free will. That is, He let's us decide, or choose which way to go.

Just in case you're not real clear about this, let's back up a bit. In the beginning, God created everything, including us. No, He didn't have to; it was His own choice. The way He set things up was his decision, too.

No one advised God on what things should look like, or how they should work. And, when it came to making  man in His own image, that was His choice, as well. Now, during the course of putting all of this in place, He gave us something priceless. We know it as volition, or free will; the ability to choose.

God doesn't need little robots, or "yes" men chasing after him. He wants us to come to our own, irrefutable decision of whether to follow him, or not. In truth, many of us are running around today without an appreciation for the fact that God has given us the ability to choose.

Of course, It would be easier, in many ways, if all of our choices were made for us. Sometimes making decisions can be scary, annoying, or just plain "no-fun." I can honestly tell you that as a parent, there are many times I wish I could just think for my children, rather than leaving choices up to them. But, God didn't make us that way. No, that’s not how He "chose" to make us.

C.S. Lewis once wrote in a letter: "Is it not a frightening truth that the free will of a bad man can resist the will of God? For He has, after a fashion, restricted His own Omnipotence by the very fact of creating free creatures; and we read that the Lord was not able to do miracles in some place because people’s faith was wanting"  (Matthew 13:58).

Take a moment and consider how much it cost God to make us this way. If we're given the chance to make wrong choices, we usually do. Sadly, with us making so many wrong decisions, the only way for us to reestablish our relationship with God was by the death of His son on the cross. Our "free will" is what made the cross necessary. That's what it cost.

I'd like to close today with a quote from Stephen R. Lawhead: "This is our work in creation: to decide. And what we decide is woven into the thread of time and being forever. Choose wisely, then, but you must choose."

Beloved, the ability to choose is not only valuable, it’s also very powerful. With our choices (good or bad) we set the course for our entire lives. We really need to give some consideration to the way our choices "today" are going to affect our lives "tomorrow"; and not only tomorrow, but "forever." Fortunately, we get to make the choice regarding our eternity. That's a choice we all have.

Scripture: Proverbs 16:9; Joshua 24:15; John 7:17; Galatians 5:16-17; Mark 8:34

Prayer: Dear Lord, in my darkest moment, please help me see your light and find my way. Amen

May God bless you!

Riley

Saturday Scripture Study with Bibi: Blessed Are The Merciful

Hello, everyone! Thank you for joining me for yet another Saturday Scripture Study. During this study series we will be discussing the parables of Jesus. He used parables as part of his teaching lessons. These parables contain powerful messages that are just beneath the surface of the story; which in turn motivate us to dig deeper, and learn how to better walk with Christ, Our Lord.

We are now at Week Five of our series. Let's continue our study of Jesus' parables by discussing God's mercy. His mercy is always there for us just as long as we (as in you and I) are sincerely repentant and merciful ourselves.

Before we begin our study, let's pray together: God, you have made the heavens and the earth. You have revealed your beauty in creation and inspired the book that we are now about to study. Please help us now as we read together. Take us deeper into understanding more about you and your love for us. Amen.

Nearing his final years, Paul the apostle spent a lot of time asking himself: "What was the biggest life-changing event of my life?" Certainly, it would have to have been his own conversion from the most notorious, anti-Christian in the Jewish world. Which, by the way, provided great proof of the faith's authenticity.

One time, Paul wrote to his student Timothy, "And thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry, although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief" (1 Timothy 1:12-13). Paul never forgot the debt he owed God and how the Lord had shown him mercy. Due to his gratitude, Paul lived a faithful life; sharing the gospel with many, many others.

Our salvation, like his, isn't achieved by "works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit" (Titus 3:5). The grace of God is indeed amazing, and he desires that we similarly show mercy to our fellow man.

The Bible clearly tells us that, "Blessed are the merciful, For they shall obtain mercy" (Matthew 5:7). No one can ever seriously understand the grace of God unless he himself is willing to offer mercy to anyone who asks for it. We can neither disregard mercy as too unattainable, nor shove it aside as too unimportant to bother with. It's this kind of misconception that leaves one in danger of missing the meaning of God's mercy altogether.

Paul expresses that God is rich in mercy (Ephesians 2:4) and that Christian fellowship depends partly on human mercy (Philippians 2:1). In as much as God was able to forgive us so exceedingly--debt of guilt deserving spiritual death (Romans 3:23; 6:23)--at such a great cost as the blood of his own son, we certainly should be able to give mercy to anyone who ill-treats us in any way, or degree at all. This is possible if we respect others, and pay attention to their interests more than ourselves. Then, and only then, can we have the mind of Christ Jesus in us.

In the parable of the unforgiving servant (Matthew 18:23-35), the Lord devises a long tale of justice and injustice to answer Peter's question, "How often shall I forgive a brother who sins against me?" Christ's response shows that human mercy is a bottomless cup, so long as the repentance is always heartfelt. This is true because our Father is always willing to welcome back a straying soul who is truly longing for mercy. However, we must keep in mind that God will judge us according to how we have judged others.

Then, there was the time when Jesus was invited to dine with a Pharisee named Simon. While at his house, a sinful woman came and worshiped Jesus. The Pharisee became annoyed by this and insinuated that if Jesus were really farseeing, he would send this person away. Jesus responded to his rudeness using the parable of the the two debtors (Luke 7:36-50). The one with more sins needed more mercy therefore showing more gratitude than a self-righteous sinner like Simon.

Now listen carefully. There's also a time when God's mercy will cease. Jesus labored with the Jews for three years, but very few of them had been converted. He instructed them using the parable of the barren fig tree (Luke 13:6-9) as a warning that their system of religion would soon be shaken up. Although, if they each produced "fruit" they could be preserved individually.

In closing, these parables "cut to the heart" of human relations and true discipleship. How do we respond to a person who asks for our forgiveness. Do we forgive the sin and simply wipe it away like it never happened? Or do we hold on to it for future reference? Is our mercy hard to get? Despite the fact that someone might hurt us for a bit, we might blemish our souls forever by refusing to extend grace  Remember: we can only accept the grace of God as long as we are willing to extend our own.

Questions:

1. How could a blasphemer, persecutor, and an insolent man ever enter the ministry?
2. Are we saved by our own merit, or a litany of good works accomplished aside from all else?
3. What was God able to forgive in us?
4. What important lesson must this teach us about relating to others?
5. How many times should I be willing to forgive someone who trespasses against me?
6. What was to be the servant's fate who could not pay the king what he owed?
7. What did the servant say in his plea (Matthew 18:26)? What on the king's part saved him?
8. How much of a lesson on mercy and gratitude did that servant learn then? What happened?
9. What did the second debtor plead (Matthew 18:29)?
10. In your own words, what is the lesson of this parable (Matthew 18:35)?
11. What did the sinful woman do when she heard Jesus was at Simon's house?
12. How did Simon reply?
13. Who had taught the better lesson: the self-righteous, smug lawyer or the humble. repentant sinner?
14. How long had the man been seeking frogs from this tree? What had she found so far?
15. How much longer did the fig tree have to begin producing?
16. Is there an end to God's patience with mankind and earth (2 Peter 3:9)?

Until next time...

May your week be blessed!

Bibi