Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Video - Sheila Walsh: The Darkest Night
We've all been there when the dark shadows of life seem to be closing in all around us. Then, reaching out to God for help we might wonder, "How do I know God is listening?" Sheila Walsh (Christian vocalist, songwriter, evangelist, author, inspirational speaker, and talk-show host) shares some interesting insight in this short video clip. ~Eve
Monday, May 4, 2020
We Must Glory in God!
“It [knowing God] is the most practical project anyone can engage in. Knowing about God is crucially important for living our lives.” - J.I. Packer
This may be an excellent opportunity to reflect on some things that, because of our normally hectic and sometimes over-extended, overloaded lives, we weren't able to do so before.
Presently, many have literally had the rug pulled out from under their feet, as they say. Circumstances, both public and private, are different now than they were only a few short months ago, causing worrying, suffering, and daily loss.
Perhaps we were living under the assumption that we were intellectually, militarily, and economically invincible. And being as such, there was very little that could go wrong. However, as the old saying goes, "Anything that can go wrong, will—at the worst possible moment."
During the time of Jeremiah, the Old Testament prophet, Judah and Jerusalem were a total mess. Their uncleanliness, treachery, lying, unfaithfulness, and deceit had the Lord this close to avenging Himself on them (Jeremiah 9:2;7).
Jeremiah did all he could to try and diffuse the situation between them and the Lord. As the chapter opens, he was crying over the destruction of his people (Jeremiah 9:1). How far Jerusalem and the cities of Judah had fallen!
Their problem was that they had basically ditched God, and hitched their wagons to their own wisdom, strength, and riches (Jeremiah 9:23). In doing so, they grew increasingly more dependent on themselves, and less dependent on Him.
As I mentioned at the outset, current times have presented us with an opportunity to think about our own lives. In other words, where do I stand with God?; do I give Him the recognition He deserves?; how can I set my relationship with God in proper order?
There are a couple of things that we ourselves do to undermine our bond with God. We tend to make things more difficult than they really should be, and have become accustomed to instant gratification, so much so, that we've become carelessly lazy towards Him.
We shouldn't have to wait until the alarm sounds to realize that all is not well. In Jeremiah 9:23-24 the prophet reprimands the people, telling them what the Lord has to say about what they are doing wrong, and then He graciously tells them how to get back on track.
We don't have to let things get to the point of impending disaster before doing something to change course, as was the case with Jerusalem and Judah. These verses (vs. 23 and 24) give us some great suggestions from God Himself.
Within verse 23, you might see the use of "glory in," or "boast in," and even "brag," depending on the Bible translation. Here, God is directing our attention to the things that we tend to value most highly, pursue most eagerly, and seek our happiness in (over Him).
In the following verse (v. 24) God quite plainly lays out the things that we must understand (or know) about Him if we are to truly live happy and prosperous lives. We cannot attain this on our own accord, nor could we ever.
Earlier, I pointed out our faults for lessening the effectiveness of our relationship with Him. Comfort and confidence when calamity strikes can only be found if we have performed or completed our responsibility to know God. It is our obligation to do so!
As you can see, God doesn't leave us clueless as to what He requires from us. Unlike some today, He will always give it to us straight, is totally transparent, and all without the smoke and mirrors of a Las Vegas magic show! (Numbers 23:19; Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18)
Use this time to examine the condition of your relationship with God. Think of it as a necessary maintenance before something breaks down. He has communicated what we shouldn't do, and what gives Him great pleasure to do for us. "I delight to do your will, O my God;" (Psalm 40:8).
Scripture: John 17:3; Philippians 3:10; Romans 12:2; Proverbs 8:17; Isaiah 55:8
Prayer: Dear God, instill in me to never depend on the things of this world to bring me the true happiness, in my heart and soul, that can only be secured by a righteous relationship with You. Amen.
May God bless you,
Lainey
This may be an excellent opportunity to reflect on some things that, because of our normally hectic and sometimes over-extended, overloaded lives, we weren't able to do so before.
Presently, many have literally had the rug pulled out from under their feet, as they say. Circumstances, both public and private, are different now than they were only a few short months ago, causing worrying, suffering, and daily loss.
Perhaps we were living under the assumption that we were intellectually, militarily, and economically invincible. And being as such, there was very little that could go wrong. However, as the old saying goes, "Anything that can go wrong, will—at the worst possible moment."
During the time of Jeremiah, the Old Testament prophet, Judah and Jerusalem were a total mess. Their uncleanliness, treachery, lying, unfaithfulness, and deceit had the Lord this close to avenging Himself on them (Jeremiah 9:2;7).
Jeremiah did all he could to try and diffuse the situation between them and the Lord. As the chapter opens, he was crying over the destruction of his people (Jeremiah 9:1). How far Jerusalem and the cities of Judah had fallen!
Their problem was that they had basically ditched God, and hitched their wagons to their own wisdom, strength, and riches (Jeremiah 9:23). In doing so, they grew increasingly more dependent on themselves, and less dependent on Him.
As I mentioned at the outset, current times have presented us with an opportunity to think about our own lives. In other words, where do I stand with God?; do I give Him the recognition He deserves?; how can I set my relationship with God in proper order?
There are a couple of things that we ourselves do to undermine our bond with God. We tend to make things more difficult than they really should be, and have become accustomed to instant gratification, so much so, that we've become carelessly lazy towards Him.
We shouldn't have to wait until the alarm sounds to realize that all is not well. In Jeremiah 9:23-24 the prophet reprimands the people, telling them what the Lord has to say about what they are doing wrong, and then He graciously tells them how to get back on track.
We don't have to let things get to the point of impending disaster before doing something to change course, as was the case with Jerusalem and Judah. These verses (vs. 23 and 24) give us some great suggestions from God Himself.
Within verse 23, you might see the use of "glory in," or "boast in," and even "brag," depending on the Bible translation. Here, God is directing our attention to the things that we tend to value most highly, pursue most eagerly, and seek our happiness in (over Him).
In the following verse (v. 24) God quite plainly lays out the things that we must understand (or know) about Him if we are to truly live happy and prosperous lives. We cannot attain this on our own accord, nor could we ever.
Earlier, I pointed out our faults for lessening the effectiveness of our relationship with Him. Comfort and confidence when calamity strikes can only be found if we have performed or completed our responsibility to know God. It is our obligation to do so!
As you can see, God doesn't leave us clueless as to what He requires from us. Unlike some today, He will always give it to us straight, is totally transparent, and all without the smoke and mirrors of a Las Vegas magic show! (Numbers 23:19; Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:18)
Use this time to examine the condition of your relationship with God. Think of it as a necessary maintenance before something breaks down. He has communicated what we shouldn't do, and what gives Him great pleasure to do for us. "I delight to do your will, O my God;" (Psalm 40:8).
Scripture: John 17:3; Philippians 3:10; Romans 12:2; Proverbs 8:17; Isaiah 55:8
Prayer: Dear God, instill in me to never depend on the things of this world to bring me the true happiness, in my heart and soul, that can only be secured by a righteous relationship with You. Amen.
May God bless you,
Lainey
Friday, May 1, 2020
Scripture Study with Bibi: Genesis 18:22-33
"There is no worse screen to block out the Spirit than confidence in our own intelligence." - John Calvin
I sincerely hope that your week has gone well. And although the current health crisis has taken a great toll on all of us in terms of our health, employment, and financial stability, we must remain steadfast in faith.
The words spoken by Moses to Joshua as Israel was about to cross over the Jordan, "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged" still apply today (Deuteronomy 31:8).
More than ever, we must remain patient and focused. We cannot allow outside influences to turn us from the path God has opened before us. Stand firm and devoted as He alone will see us through the turbulent waters and testing flames of adversity (Isaiah 43:2).
As we left things last time, Abraham had an encounter with three strangers who paid a visit to him where he was encamped. These mysterious strangers were in actuality three heavenly beings who had assumed human form (Genesis 18:1-2).
Two of these men were angels, the third was the Lord Himself. The Lord promised a son to Abraham and Sarah, even though they had thought of themselves as long past the point of having children (Genesis 18:9-15).
The Lord debated at first whether or not to reveal His plans concerning Sodom to Abraham. The Lord then states His reasons as to why He should (Genesis 18:17-19). Finally, the Lord reveals His plan and sets it into motion (Genesis 18:20-22).
This week, we will conclude Genesis 18. The main focus of our study will be on Abraham's intercession for Sodom. Here we shall witness Abraham's spiritual character step to the forefront as he pleads justice on behalf of the righteous in the city.
I highly encourage everyone to read the material (verses 22-33) before attempting the questions. This will prove to be most beneficial in both the comprehension and retention of the subject matter.
Let's begin with prayer: Dear LORD, as we meet together to learn, grow, and change in study, help us move into a deeper understanding of Your truth. Amen.
Now, this week's study...
Too many of us complain because we feel distant from God's presence. This is not any fault of God. Rather, it is our failure to recognize that we have prioritized our associations with worldly risks and designs over our relationship with Him.
Abraham demonstrates what our bond with God could truly be if we walk closely with Him. Perhaps then God will reveal His mind to us, as He did to Abraham. God's divine purpose will then stand before us, and not us before it.
1.) The other men turned and walked off toward Sodom leaving Abraham with the Lord. What was Abraham's concern that he shared with the Lord? (Genesis 18:22-23)
2.) Abraham had earlier rescued these people himself (Genesis 14:16), now he bargains for their lives. He takes a big chance in repeating his plead for them six times. What happens each time Abraham does this? What does the Lord do? (Genesis 18:24-32)
3.) Finally, at the end of his dialogue, Abraham realizes in amazement his own boldness in speaking to the Lord. He also realizes how freely the Lord graciously allowed him to do so. What did Abraham say conceding his own lowliness to God's omnipotence in all matters? (Genesis 18:27)
This concludes our study of Genesis 18. When we meet next time we shall begin the study of Genesis 19. There we shall see the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, the rescue of Lot and his family, and the foul sin committed by Lot.
Until then, have a blessed and safe week!
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:7; Proverbs 3:5-6; Micah 6:8; Psalm 119:105; Psalm 119:133
Prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with hope of my salvation and the many other blessings You provide with Your presence in my life. Amen.
May you be generously blessed!
Bibi
I sincerely hope that your week has gone well. And although the current health crisis has taken a great toll on all of us in terms of our health, employment, and financial stability, we must remain steadfast in faith.
The words spoken by Moses to Joshua as Israel was about to cross over the Jordan, "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged" still apply today (Deuteronomy 31:8).
More than ever, we must remain patient and focused. We cannot allow outside influences to turn us from the path God has opened before us. Stand firm and devoted as He alone will see us through the turbulent waters and testing flames of adversity (Isaiah 43:2).
As we left things last time, Abraham had an encounter with three strangers who paid a visit to him where he was encamped. These mysterious strangers were in actuality three heavenly beings who had assumed human form (Genesis 18:1-2).
Two of these men were angels, the third was the Lord Himself. The Lord promised a son to Abraham and Sarah, even though they had thought of themselves as long past the point of having children (Genesis 18:9-15).
The Lord debated at first whether or not to reveal His plans concerning Sodom to Abraham. The Lord then states His reasons as to why He should (Genesis 18:17-19). Finally, the Lord reveals His plan and sets it into motion (Genesis 18:20-22).
This week, we will conclude Genesis 18. The main focus of our study will be on Abraham's intercession for Sodom. Here we shall witness Abraham's spiritual character step to the forefront as he pleads justice on behalf of the righteous in the city.
I highly encourage everyone to read the material (verses 22-33) before attempting the questions. This will prove to be most beneficial in both the comprehension and retention of the subject matter.
Let's begin with prayer: Dear LORD, as we meet together to learn, grow, and change in study, help us move into a deeper understanding of Your truth. Amen.
Now, this week's study...
Too many of us complain because we feel distant from God's presence. This is not any fault of God. Rather, it is our failure to recognize that we have prioritized our associations with worldly risks and designs over our relationship with Him.
Abraham demonstrates what our bond with God could truly be if we walk closely with Him. Perhaps then God will reveal His mind to us, as He did to Abraham. God's divine purpose will then stand before us, and not us before it.
1.) The other men turned and walked off toward Sodom leaving Abraham with the Lord. What was Abraham's concern that he shared with the Lord? (Genesis 18:22-23)
2.) Abraham had earlier rescued these people himself (Genesis 14:16), now he bargains for their lives. He takes a big chance in repeating his plead for them six times. What happens each time Abraham does this? What does the Lord do? (Genesis 18:24-32)
3.) Finally, at the end of his dialogue, Abraham realizes in amazement his own boldness in speaking to the Lord. He also realizes how freely the Lord graciously allowed him to do so. What did Abraham say conceding his own lowliness to God's omnipotence in all matters? (Genesis 18:27)
This concludes our study of Genesis 18. When we meet next time we shall begin the study of Genesis 19. There we shall see the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, the rescue of Lot and his family, and the foul sin committed by Lot.
Until then, have a blessed and safe week!
Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:7; Proverbs 3:5-6; Micah 6:8; Psalm 119:105; Psalm 119:133
Prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with hope of my salvation and the many other blessings You provide with Your presence in my life. Amen.
May you be generously blessed!
Bibi
Wednesday, April 29, 2020
Video - Anne Graham Lotz: While We Are Shut-In...
Anne Graham Lotz and her daughter, Rachel-Ruth, share a brief word on living in today's world as a shut-in due to the pandemic. They include several scriptural comparisons/references in their discussion. A personal, straight-forward, and informative message! ~Eve
Monday, April 27, 2020
Why Do You Pray..?
"The greatest tragedy of life is not unanswered prayer, but unoffered prayer." - F.B. Meyer
As true and sincere Christians, we are to love our neighbor and have their best interest and needs at heart, as well and our own. Sounds simple enough, right? (Matthew 22:39; Mark 12:31; John 13:34; 15:12)
As true and sincere Christians, we are to love our neighbor and have their best interest and needs at heart, as well and our own. Sounds simple enough, right? (Matthew 22:39; Mark 12:31; John 13:34; 15:12)
To carry this directive a little further, we are also commanded to pray for our enemies, as reflected in Jesus' own words (Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:28). He, or she (the Christian) especially prays for the Church at large and his own congregation.
However, as much as he does pray for everything mentioned, it would be irresponsible to leave out one more important piece of the Christian's prayer. And that is to pray for himself, particularly in matters regarding the welfare of the soul (Psalm 20:4-5).
Naturally, the question arises: "What should a Christian pray for?" The Lord tell us, "...whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you" (John 15:16). Christ speaks to His believers, those that possess His Spirit (Romans 8:9).
Therefore, it would be foolishness to ask for anything and everything whenever the inclination moves us. True faith cannot expect anything except but what God has promised us. Foolish, or ill-considered prayers are not heard (James 4:3).
The Lord speaks to believers, who pray according to His will, offering their will to God's. A Christian praying in Jesus' name will do as He did (Mark 14:36; Matthew 26:29; Matthew 26:42; Luke 22:42; John 18:11), and the leper (Matthew 8:2; Luke 5:12).
So, then, when we ask God for temporal gifts, such as health, wealth, skill, wisdom, etc., we should ask with the stipulation that He would grant them to us if they contribute to His glory and our welfare (John 15:7)
However, spiritual gifts, which are absolutely necessary for the salvation of our soul, should be asked for without any conditions, because we know the will of our Father. He wills our salvation (Philippians 4:6).
For that reason we pray for spiritual blessings, such as forgiveness, the grace of God, faith, guidance by the Holy Spirit, perseverance in faith and in adversity, without restriction; confident He will hear us because we have His promise to provide all of this, if we only ask.
Scripture: Hebrews 4:16; Matthew 6:6; Colossians 4:2; Jeremiah 33:3; Proverbs 15:29
Prayer: Dear Lord, I pray to You, provide me with wisdom and strength, along with a fearless spirit, to face whatever obstacles or problems may arise in my life. Amen.
May God bless you,
Lainey
May God bless you,
Lainey
Friday, April 24, 2020
Scripture Study with Bibi: Genesis 18:1-21
“If God's asking you to do something, He's also promising to go with you.” - Amanda G. Stevens, from Far and Near
Hello, and welcome back! I hope that you enjoyed a blessed Easter.
Hello, and welcome back! I hope that you enjoyed a blessed Easter.
These are unquestionably troubling times in which we are living through. Even the most steadfast believer might find himself apprehensive about tomorrow, especially when employment, housing, food, and debt can be problematic.
Thankfully, we can always trust in the word of God to bring us comfort, encouragement, and spiritual nourishment whenever and wherever it is needed. For, "He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak" (Isaiah 40:29).
Last time, we concluded Genesis 17. Abram is now called "Abraham," and his wife Sarai is now "Sarah" (Genesis 17:15). God also promised Abraham and Sarah a biological son of their own (Genesis 17:16). And God will establish an everlasting covenant him.
Although he would not be Abraham's promised heir, Abraham's son Ishmael, by Sarah's servant Hagar, was not forgotten by God (Genesis 17:20). Finally, Abraham and his family were circumcised, thus receiving the sign of the covenant and setting themselves apart from other families (Genesis 17:23-27).
As we begin Genesis 18, there is another encounter between God and Abraham that likely takes place not soon after the last (chapter 17). This particular occurrence was the reward for Abraham's happy compliance with the law of circumcision.
As always, I encourage everyone to read the chapter before tackling the questions. I truly believe this will help to put things into proper perspective, and aid in learning the material, which in turn will result in a more fruitful Bible study!
Let's begin with prayer: Dear LORD, as we meet together to learn, grow, and change in study, help us move into a deeper understanding of Your truth. Amen.
Now, here's this week's study...
In an unpredictable and confusing world it is reassuring to know that God will not abandon us. He brings us confidence, support, and peace of mind when we require it the most. Without question, our faith, patience, and prayers will be rewarded in the end.
1.) Abraham was resting near the great trees of Mamre at Hebron. According to custom, he was sitting at the entrance to his tent around mid-day in order to cool himself off when something happened. What was it and who did it involve? (Genesis 18:1-2)
2.) It was also customary to offer hospitalities to weary travelers so that they may be rested and refreshed before continuing on their journey. In what manner did Abraham extend his hospitality, and what did he offer? (Genesis 18-3-5)
3.) The three men accepted Abraham's hospitable invitation. What sequence of events took place from that point? (Genesis 18:6-8)
4.) Abraham carefully tended to his guests while they ate, as any gracious host should. What did they ask Abraham about Sarah? Where was she? What did one of the men tell Abraham regarding her? (Genesis 18:9-10)
5.) What the man told Abraham was wonderful news, but there were a couple of things about Abraham and Sarah that were not in their favor. What were they? (Genesis 18:11)
6.) Sarah had been listening to the conversation between Abraham and the men. What was her reaction to what she heard said about her? (Genesis 18:12)
7.) Sarah was promptly admonished for her reaction. She even tried to deny it. What was said to her, and by whom? (Genesis 18:13-15)
8.) After the guests had finished their meal they got up to leave. Abraham walked outside with them. What did the men do? (Genesis 18:16)
9.) As was also customary for a host to do, Abraham walked with the men for a while. During the course of this walk something was revealed to Abraham. Who revealed it? What was Abraham told? (Genesis 18:17-19)
10.) God also makes known to Abraham about another concern He had. What was it? How was He going to verify it? (Genesis 18:20-21)
Next time, we will conclude Genesis 18. Here we shall see Abraham as he intercedes for Sodom in the face of God's wrath. We all know where God stands on the subject of those who are righteous and unrighteous, but here we will begin to Him in action.
Until then, have a blessed and safe week!
Scripture: Psalm 89:34; Romans 4:21; Hebrews 10:23; Luke 18:27; Numbers 23:19
Prayer: Dear LORD, strengthen me with hope of my salvation and the many other blessing You provide with Your presence in my life. Amen.
May you be generously blessed!
Bibi
Wednesday, April 22, 2020
He Comforts Us in All Our Troubles
"The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him," - Nahum 1:7
Given the current state of our world today with the pandemic crisis, many of us are feeling as if we've had the floor literally knocked out from under our feet. We are living in scary, unsettling times, not knowing if and when normalcy will return.
I hope this encouraging verse from Scripture will help ease and assure anxious and troubled minds; that daylight always follows the darkest night. The strongest and oldest trees in the forest became so by weathering many storms. Our faith in God grows stronger with every trial in life.
The verse above is both experience and prophecy. The prophet and people have experienced an extended blessing by the goodness of the Lord. The nation Israel's history is completely tied into the story of His purpose and care.
And although the current moral state of the people is such that God's love must employ brutal disciplinary methods, He hasn't changed. His mercy is still secure over all His works, and His character the solid foundation upon which His people may always build.
However, the fact that they are unremorseful and unresponsive to those hints of His Will, that have already presented themselves in tragedy and suffering, have cemented their painful punishment. Darker days loom on the horizon for them.
They will find themselves embroiled in a conflict of nations in which it will appear that their national life is utterly destroyed. Nothing that they have previously experienced will compare to the misery that will arrive upon them.
Yet, through it all the goodness of God will not diminish. The future will repeat the past to those who sincerely seek Him. In such a way does the prophet encourage the faithful few in the land by guiding their thoughts to the source of their life.
Thus, we must always bear in mind that believers are never immune from trouble, but they are free from fear and despair. And that no matter what, God remains constant and the shelter of His love is always available to them.
Whenever faith is tested, and life is obscured by difficulties and uncertainties, as it is now, we can always find His strength and light for the support of our confidence. It would be unwise to pass through these troubled times without God's help.
Given the current state of our world today with the pandemic crisis, many of us are feeling as if we've had the floor literally knocked out from under our feet. We are living in scary, unsettling times, not knowing if and when normalcy will return.
I hope this encouraging verse from Scripture will help ease and assure anxious and troubled minds; that daylight always follows the darkest night. The strongest and oldest trees in the forest became so by weathering many storms. Our faith in God grows stronger with every trial in life.
The verse above is both experience and prophecy. The prophet and people have experienced an extended blessing by the goodness of the Lord. The nation Israel's history is completely tied into the story of His purpose and care.
And although the current moral state of the people is such that God's love must employ brutal disciplinary methods, He hasn't changed. His mercy is still secure over all His works, and His character the solid foundation upon which His people may always build.
However, the fact that they are unremorseful and unresponsive to those hints of His Will, that have already presented themselves in tragedy and suffering, have cemented their painful punishment. Darker days loom on the horizon for them.
They will find themselves embroiled in a conflict of nations in which it will appear that their national life is utterly destroyed. Nothing that they have previously experienced will compare to the misery that will arrive upon them.
Yet, through it all the goodness of God will not diminish. The future will repeat the past to those who sincerely seek Him. In such a way does the prophet encourage the faithful few in the land by guiding their thoughts to the source of their life.
Thus, we must always bear in mind that believers are never immune from trouble, but they are free from fear and despair. And that no matter what, God remains constant and the shelter of His love is always available to them.
Whenever faith is tested, and life is obscured by difficulties and uncertainties, as it is now, we can always find His strength and light for the support of our confidence. It would be unwise to pass through these troubled times without God's help.
Scripture: Philippians 4:13; Isaiah 41:10; 1 John 5:4; 1 Peter 5:7; James 1:12
Prayer: Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. Amen. - 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Joyfully in Christ!
~Eve
~Eve
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