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