Video - J. I. Packer: Who is the Holy Spirit?

A short lesson with author and theologian J.I. Packer. Once again, great teaching packed into a brief format. A video clip worth playing more than once. Learn and enjoy!  ~Eve

The Spirit of Truth Comes! - Part 1

"The Spirit-filled life is not a special, deluxe edition of Christianity. It is part and parcel of the total plan of God for His people."  - A. W. Tozer

It's hard to imagine how radically different things would have been for this world had it not rejected Christ the first time around. Instead, the world would have to wait to grasp the seriousness of its refusal.

Jesus' own band of disciples did not fully understand a lot of what he told them, though they walked and talked with him daily. Before Jesus' death on the cross, they were more concerned about their own fates than his departure.

He really did try to explain the reason for his departure, but they were too distraught to listen (John 16: 5-6). Even so, Jesus told them that he wouldn't leave them without any help. He would send a Helper, the Holy Spirit (John 16:7; John 14:16-17).

Jesus would do so only after he returned to heaven and was glorified. It was because of the world's denial of him that he had to return to heaven. Thus, the Holy Spirit is here in place of the rejected Christ.

As for the disciples, it was to their advantage that the Holy Spirit should be sent. The Advocate (Holy Spirit; Helper) would empower them, provide courage, instruct them, and make Christ more genuine to them.

And though the Holy Spirit had been here before, this time He was coming back with a new purpose. He was returning to condemn the world, and to take care of the redeemed.

His conviction of the world would be centered on sin, righteousness, and judgment, as we see in John 16:8. In general, this is understood as His creation of an inward knowledge of these things in the sinner's life.

While true, it is not the lesson of this particular portion of Scripture. Rather, that the Holy Spirit convicts the world by His very presence here. And it is here, that we will continue our discussion next time!

Scripture: Romans 8:9; John 14:26; Acts 2:38; Isaiah 11:2; 2 Corinthians 3:17;

Prayer: Dear Lord, by the light of the Holy Spirit you have taught the hearts of your faithful. In the same Spirit help me to delight in what is right, and rejoice in your comfort always, amen.

Bless you always,

Brielle

Our Comfort in Jesus Christ

"When Christ returned to heaven, He withdrew His physical presence from our sight. He didn't stop being with the disciples but by the ascension fulfilled His promise to be with us to the end of the world. As His body was raised to heaven, so His power and reign have spread to the uttermost parts." - John Calvin

As they all sat at the table sharing in the Lord's Supper, the disciples were stressed about what Jesus had said about leaving them (John 13:33; 36). What would happen to them without their beloved friend and teacher?

All sorts of things must have been running through their minds. Without Jesus they would have to face persecution and trial alone. They had no visible income, no friends outside of their group, and held no positions of importance.

And of course, there were all the plans that revolved around Jesus. Would they all be crushed with His departure?  Along with not having fully learned the doctrine regarding the suffering and death of the Messiah (Luke 24:21), who could blame them?

We can all certainly relate to feelings of despair, anxiety, hopelessness, and uncertainty. The disciples, even though they had walked next to Jesus himself, were still, after all, as human as you and I.

That being said, especially in trying times, we seek some sort of assurance that everything will turn out okay. Jesus' disciples were no different. When Jesus broke the news of his coming departure over supper they were at a loss.

At that moment, however, they were only thinking about their own fates. Jesus could tell by looking around the table, seeing their worried and concerned expressions, that He needed to bolster their sinking spirits, or risk losing them.

And that He did. He told them that comfort may found in their confidence in God and him (John 14:1). He also hinted at the perpetually binding union between him and the Father (explained in greater detail in John 14:7-12).

We, too, may find our comfort when we need it in Jesus Christ. His assuring and empathetic words, "Do not let your hearts be troubled," tell us that we are never alone. There is ever a shining light in our darkest hour, and that light is Jesus Christ (John 8:12).

Scripture: Psalm 34:18; Psalm 71:21; Isaiah 66:13; Philippians 4:6; Jeremiah 29:11

Prayer: In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord, He is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; and because He inclined His ear to me, I will call on Him as long as I live, amen.

May God richly bless you,

Barbara

Trust In The God of Hope

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."  - Romans 15:13

What would the world be like without hope? Hope helps us look forward to tomorrow, which brings the promise of better things than today. Without it, this world and everything we know would have ceased long ago.

The Bible, the written Word of God, has much to say about hope. Within its pages, hope is dispensed most generously. Jesus Christ himself represents hope everlasting to a condemned humanity that is surely lost without Him.

Hope is presented to us from the beginning of Scripture. In Genesis 3:15, we are given a sneek peek of God's plan of redemption, which ends with Satan finally being driven into the eternal hell of fire (Revelation 20:10).

In the Book of Exodus, we can read about the hope of an oppressed Israelite nation that is freed from Egyptian captivity by the hand of God who has assured them a better life in an abundant land if they obey Him.

The master-stroke of hope was when God sent His Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ, who by His death on the cross for our sins, offered us hope of one day being able to join Him in His heavenly home for all eternity (John 3:16).

The dictionary tells us that hope is the feeling that what is wanted can be had or that events will turn out for the best. Billy Graham once said, "I've read the last page of the Bible. It's all going to turn out all right." 

Many search for hope in various things, but never find it. But, God has given us hope in His promises. And no matter what troubles or trials we have to contend with in life, we can always grab tightly onto the hope that He offers to us. Amen!

Scripture: Lamentations 3:24; Psalm 33:22; Romans 8:24; Psalm 147:11; Titus 1:2

Prayer: But as for me, I watch in hope for the LORD, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me, amen  - Micah 7:7

Stay blessed,

Kate

Are You Willing to Pay the Price?

"Believing is accepting as a fact and making a commitment of your own future to the promises of God to save you -- simply by believing in Christ."  - John F. Walvoord

Everyday, people like you and I are faced with life-changing situations. They could personal, financial, work, or health related. No matter. A decision must be made that, in one way or another, will affect their lives. But at what cost?

Of course, we can apply this to any thing, cause, or belief that we are passionate about. Something that is truly worth the trouble of pursuing, or seeing through to the end is going to have some kind of price tag attached to it.

But, not every one is willing to "pay the price" for what they believe in. Take the young rich man in Matthew 19:16-22, for instance. He was willing to do everything Jesus required except walk away from his wealthy lifestyle.

The early followers of Christ, the apostles, left homes, jobs, and families behind to follow Jesus. But it wasn't all blue skies for them, either. Scripture tell us that they were "hard pressed on every side" by troubles (2 Corinthians 4:8).

There are definitely some things to consider prior to choosing Christ. It's no big secret that it won't be a cakewalk. There will be some changes in your life, some good, others not (Luke 21:16; Luke 21:17).

And so it is with the decision to follow Jesus Christ, or not. There is no arm twisting involved. It is your free will decision to make. This, however, does not imply that we are "free" to do whatever we want in life. We must choose our actions responsibly.

As this applies to following Jesus, it is by the grace and power of God, and the Holy Spirit working in and through us that we are "free" to choose Him, and receive the benefits from our choice (John 15:16; John 1:12-13; Ephesians 4:24).

Thus, we seriously need to think about the choices we make concerning Jesus Christ. Wouldn't it be a shame to find out too late that we squandered the biggest opportunity ever set before us, because we weren't willing to pay the price?

Scripture: Hebrews 11:6; Romans 10:17; John 6:47; James 1:3; 1 Timothy 1:14

Prayer: Dear Lord, I ask You in undoubting faith to provide the wisdom I need to help me with whatever decisions I am faced with in life, amen.

May God richly bless you,

Barbara

Video - Billy Graham - Timeless Truth - Change

How's life working out for you today? Need to change it up? Let Christ into your heart! Rev. Billy Graham speaks about the change that Christ can bring into your life in this video clip. Enjoy!  ~ Eve

It's What's "Inside" That Counts!

"Secret sins commonly lie nearest the heart."  - Thomas Brooks

It's not hard to see how much value is placed on "outward appearances." This is nothing new, mind you, it's just more prominent in our modern, always-on world. But, as we well know, outward appearances can be deceiving.

The tribes of Israel had asked God for a king to rule over them. Saul, a Benjamite, was chosen by God to lead Israel (1 Samuel 9:15-17). At first glance, he seemed like a great choice.

He was tall and handsome in appearance. The people liked what they saw (1 Samuel 10: 23-24). And over time, Saul proved to be a capable and brave leader who defeated enemies, and renewed the kingdom.

The nation had its king and military leader, but Samuel remained their spiritual leader. He warned them never to turn away from God. God gave them what they wanted, but He would never truly forsake them (1 Samuel 12:19-20).

Samuel then, with a final warning, turned over full leadership to Saul (1 Samuel 12:24-25). Saul's self-will eventually began to show itself. He disregarded Samuel's warning. Soon, it seemed like no matter what he did, he fell short of obeying God.

His blatant disobedience caused God to reject him from his position (1 Samuel 15:11; 1 Samuel 15:26; 1 Samuel 15:28). Yes, Saul was a king, but only an earthly king. God rules over all, and He will act accordingly!

On the outside, Saul looked like a model king. But, his heart was not true to God, and it finally cost him his kingship. The human eye may be easily deceived. But not so God's eye (Psalm 44:21; Psalm 139:1; Jeremiah 17:10).

Sadly, many of us today spend a lot of time and money keeping up the "outward" man. but not the "inward" man. Always remember, God judges the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). In God's eyes, it's what's on the inside that really counts.

Scripture: Matthew 5:8; Proverbs 4:23; Hebrews 4:12; Matthew 15:18-19; Matthew 22:37 

Prayer: Dear Lord, test me, LORD, and try me, examine my heart and my mind, amen.  - Psalm 26:2

Bless you always,

Lauren

Beware of The Unrighteous Teacher

"A sacred regard to the authority of God ought to lead us to reject an error, however old, sanctioned by whatever authority, or however generally practiced."  - Charles Spurgeon

Fake news is not just exclusive to politics and the news media. It can also affect Christian teaching and the church. In both cases, untold damage may occur because of it. While it's true both may cause confusion and distrust, only one has certain eternal consequences.

Jesus regularly experienced this problem during the course of his earthly sojourn. Many questioned his authority and the truthfulness of his teachings. John, chapter 7, provides an example of this during the Feast of the Booths (of Tabernacles) in Judea.

While in Galilee, he desired to attend the feast, but as the obedient Son of God, he could not go so openly as his brethren. Instead, he went in secret, keeping a low profile to elude the Jewish leaders (John 7: 6; 10).

Meanwhile, people argued abouwhether he was truly righteous in his teaching, or a fraud. Eventually, he made it to the Temple, and began to teach (John 7: 12; 14). Some questioned his wealth of knowledge, considering he lacked any formal training (John 7:15).

A discourse occurs between Jesus and the crowd in John 7:16-31 as he tries to assure them that his only mission is to promote and secure the glory of God, and not secular interests as others might do.

Jesus provides guidelines by which the teachings of a genuine prophet of God can be measured against those who have only personal interests at heart. And, if they hold him (Jesus) up to these standards, they will see that he truly was sent by God (John 7:18).

We, too, must be cautious of false teachers and their teachings. The benchmarks Jesus gave for righteous and truthful teachers still hold true today. If in doubt, the best source for guidance is always found, both, in the Bible, and in quiet intercession (prayer) with Jesus Christ.

Scripture: Genesis 15:6; 1 John 2:29; 1 John 3:7; 1 Peter 3:14; 2 Corinthians 5:21; 

Prayer: Dear Lord, help me follow the path of righteousness where I may find life, and not death, amen.

Stay blessed,

Kate

O Lord, Lead Me By Your Truth!

"Nothing harms or destroys us but the wrong use of that liberty of choice which God has entrusted to us." - William Law

There's an old Joni Mitchell song in which she sings, "Don't it always seem to go that you don't know what you've got til its gone." This can certainly apply to the numerous situations in which Israel found themselves in the Old Testament.

The ebb and flow of their devotion to God caused them hardship and misery many times over. After a string of temporary leaders during the time of Judges, they decided to take a different path; one that included a more permanent ruler.

Israel saw other nations around them being led by a king, and thought this could be the answer to all their troubles. A king, they thought, would bring them more security against their enemies, besides giving them someone to honor.

Not satisfied with their situation, they ask Samuel to set a king over them (1 Samuel 8:4; 1 Samuel 8:5). Samuel takes this matter to God (1 Samuel 8:6). And though not pleased, He instructs Samuel to appoint a king, which was Saul.

Israel desiring a king was nothing new, it had been something they thought about since the time of Gideon. Nor did this necessarily conflict with the appointment of Israel as a kingdom of God.

It was the motive behind it that was, both, wrong and hateful towards God. The root of all of Israel's wickedness and adversities could be traced back to their apostasy from God, and its unfaithfulness with heathen gods.

Moses had prophesied about this years before (Deuteronomy 17:14-20). Obviously, Israel hadn't really learned from their mistakes. Even when Samuel, following God's instructions, warned them of the cost of their actions, they still proceeded.

We, today, are not immune from falling into the pattern of of thinking we can do better without God's help. However, it rarely turns out well in the end. By leaving God out of our lives, we take a big risk.

To reject living under God's rule leaves us vulnerable to uncertainty and potential disaster. We have seen this happen to different people at different times throughout the Bible. And, if it could happen to them... it can happen to us, too!

Scripture: 1 John 2:15; James 1:14; Colossians 3:5; Romans 2:8; Romans 12:3

Prayer: Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me, amen.  - Psalm 25:4-5 (NLT)

Blessings always,

Cyndy

Video - Billy Graham, No Other Way (Salvation)

In this vintage clip from one of Rev. Billy Graham's crusade sermons, he talks concisely, but precisely about salvation by way of the cross. Though it is a short message, it really drives the point across!  ~Eve

The Crushed In Spirit

"Good people must never expect to escape troubles; if they do, they will be disappointed, for none of their predecessors have been without them."  - Charles Spurgeon

There are many among us who at this very moment (perhaps even you) are experiencing issues that are not necessarily physical or mental, but a mix of both, together with some other things in life.

Maybe the spirit feels crushed or defeated (Proverbs 15:13). Or the heart is heavy, wounded, and remorseful for a sin, or sins, that it carries within. No matter the case, you feel broken, vulnerable, and powerless.

As with any type of physical or mental affliction and stress, one must first seek the attention of trained professional help who can help diagnose and treat these properly. This is a highly recommended step that should not be ignored!

Our spiritual well-being is also an important component of our overall state of health. Thankfully, we have an incredibly merciful and loving source of help with this that is available to any who may need it, at any time.

Psalm 34:18 tells us who we can turn to in times of distress, anguish, trouble, and sadness. "The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." It is through Him that one may find a reprieve, or rest for a world-weary soul.

The intent here is to convey that the LORD comes not in the general sense, as He avails himself to all, but rather in a close, gracious manner to the suffering and repentant heart.

He does much more than merely apply a temporary patch or mend. Though many hardships and perplexing circumstances confront the righteous, the LORD rescues him for them all. Psalm 34:19 (AMP)

There is no promise of exemption from all that is bad and wrong in the world. However, we can ascertain that the LORD will come to the rescue whenever we need Him. No one understands our plight better than He who agonized with, and for us (John 3:16).

Such is life here in this world that trouble and affliction lurks around every corner (John 16:33a). Yet, be encouraged, for He has overcome the world, and find comfort in knowing that help is just an earnest appeal away (Psalm 50:15).

Scripture: John 14:1; 1 Peter 5:7; James 1:2-4; Psalm 34:6; Psalm 27:14 

Prayer: You, LORD, are the light that keeps me safe. I am not afraid of anyone. You protect me, and I have no fears, amen.  - Psalm 27:1 (CEV)

Stay blessed,

Kate

The Door to Salvation...or Destruction?

"Is it not wonderful news to believe that salvation lies outside ourselves?" - Martin Luther

As Jesus passed through one of the many towns and villages one his way to Jerusalem one in his assembly of disciples asked this question: "Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?" (Luke 13:23).

It's quite natural to wonder about salvation, and this question was raised in a curious and non-threatening manner. But the topic of salvation is to be taken seriously. And, Jesus' response held back no punches regarding its gravity, or critical nature.

"Strive to enter in by the narrow door: for many, I say unto you, shall seek to enter in, and shall not be able" (Luke 13:24). This is no ordinary door, mind you. Christ, here, is talking about the entrance into his Kingdom, that is, heaven, eternal life.

Here he makes clear to His listeners the choices, or alternatives of life that we have to decide upon. The verse insinuates two doors, or two ways through which we can pass. Whichever, narrow or wide, we can only choose one, not both.

But, if you re-read the verse you'll see that Jesus has given us a big hint about which door is the preferred and certain way; it is the narrow door. Obviously, the narrow door is the more difficult, challenging, and less traveled way.

This narrow door will not accommodate those who are loaded down with the wisdom of this world, greed, or a weak and unwilling nature (Matthew 19:22). Compare this with the wide door. It is entered effortlessly, no questions asked.

It is always crowded here. Without any restrictions, the people drift along with the flow, carrying their vices and sinful appetites along with them. This door leads to a certain and final destruction.

A decision must be made that cannot be put off another day, or even another hour. Don't let sin render you incapable of making your choice. The narrow door is still open for you, but it won't be indefinitely (Luke 13:25).

Scripture: Matthew 7:21; 1 John 1:9; Romans 3:23; Psalm 25:5;  1 Thessalonians 5:9

Prayer: Lead me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all the day long. -Psalm 25:5 (ESV)

Bless you always,

Brielle

Grace To All!

"By grace I understand the favor of God, and also the gifts and working of his Spirit in us; as love, kindness, patience, obedience, mercifulness, despising of worldly things, peace, concord, and such like." - William Tyndale

When we think about a gift it brings images to mind of something special, thoughtful, and personal that is given to another, such as a birthday gift. It is freely given, without any expectation of repayment to the giver.

As a rule, a gift is not normally handed out to reward bad or improper behavior. Yet, we are all recipients of a very special "gift" which we truly don't deserve at all. How is this even possible..? It is the gift of God's grace.

The word grace, as used in the N.T., is derived from the Greek word charis which when translated basically means "favor, kindness, or blessing." As I mentioned already, we are totally undeserving of this gift of grace.

Even so, God decided to offer us eternal life with Him instead of making us pay restitution for all of our offenses against Him with eternal death. By his mercy He held back punishment for our sins (Titus 2:11).

And by grace, God held out His hand to us in kindness so that we could come to Him in heaven. This takes on even more importance when we realize how corrupted we are with sin. So much so, that we deserve death (Romans 6:23).

Yet, as contaminated as we are with sin, God wasn't ready to give up on us. By his grace He sent Jesus Christ, His perfect Son as reparation, or payment, for the sins of humanity. And, Jesus Christ is the personification of grace and truth (John 1:14).

Grace is what saves us. It gives us victory over sin (Ephesians 2:4; James 4:6), "eternal comfort and a wonderful hope" (2 Thessalonians 2:16), and is at the heart of the Bible (Acts 20:24).

One does not have to be be an expert on how God's grace works in order to receive it. Pray for guidance and understanding and it will be given (Matthew 7:7-8). "Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love" (Ephesians 6:24).

Scripture: Ephesians 2:8; John 1:14; 2 Corinthians 9:8; Ephesians 4:7; 2 Peter 1:2

Prayer: May grace, mercy, and peace be with us, from God the Father and from Jesus Christ the Father's Son, in truth and love, amen.

In Christ,

Libby

In God I Trust!

"The best way to find out if you can trust somebody is to trust them."  - Ernest Hemingway

It's no secret that we have an obvious problem with trust in our world. From our leaders, the media, to ourselves, there are issues that raise doubts, and make us question the credibility of anything, sometimes even God.

Maybe we get into trouble because we confuse "trust" and"faith" as put forth in Scripture. Though they are somewhat similar, they do have some important differences. Faith is the gift of God, where trust is the result of this faith (Ephesians 2:8-9).

The Book of Judges contains many examples of what can happen when faith and trust in God, is not totally understood and performed. Israel lived in what was a cycle of sin and deliverance primarily caused by exactly this point.

The fact is, we are sinful people. This means that all have the potential to fall short when it comes to trust. "Cursed is the one who trusts in man, who draws strength from mere flesh and whose heart turns away from the LORD" (Jeremiah 17:5).

Trusting ourselves runs risks and can be questionable at best, however placing our trust in the LORD is safe and secure. Only He is trustworthy in the fullest sense. His Word, nature, and perfect and purposeful plans for us can be fully trusted (Psalm 93:5; Psalm 111:7; Titus 1:9).

And even though our faith at times may be shaken, or falter; or we find ourselves seduced by sin, no matter, God will not let us fall (Psalm 37:24). The believer knows that regardless of what may come, his faith-based trust in Him will never yield (Psalm 112:7).

Scripture: Psalm 37:5; Psalm 9:10; Isaiah 26:3; John 14:1; Psalm 118:8

Prayer: Holy Father, I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. always, amen.

Bless you always,

Lauren