Saturday Scripture Gold, Philippians 3:10-16

Happy Saturday!

Thank you for joining me today. Each week, I will take a verse (or passage) from the Bible and dig beneath the surface to uncover the precious golden nuggets of truth, wisdom, and knowledge that lie waiting to be discovered. I pray that this will inspire you to do some "digging" of your own into God's scripture!

This week's Bible passage: Philippians 3:10-16

A hungry tiger started tracking the scent of a deer. As he followed the deer, he came across the scent of a rabbit. He turned aside and started after the rabbit. The he was distracted by the scent of a mouse and started following that. He finally came to the hole into which the mouse had vanished. He ended the day hungrier than when he had started the day. This fable illustrates how many spend their lives distracted with this or that, and at the end of the day they have accomplished little.

In Philippians 3:10-16 we find a focus for one’s life, a spiritual focus. Paul wrote Philippians 3:13-14. He said, “this one thing I do." Not “a hundred things I start” or “a dozen things I attempt” – but “one thing I do.” Paul means that he is putting all his energy into this one thing, “pressing toward the mark”

Okay, I admit that I have struggled with this concept of "being focused." I get involved, at times, in too many projects and end up doing less than my best with many of them. Perhaps you, too, have trouble staying focused. If so, a study of Paul’s focused life will help us both. We will discuss three topics that helped Paul stay focused. These can serve to help us stay focused, as well.

First, stay focused on a person (Philippians 3:10-11). “Knowing” Christ involves more than just knowing about Him, it includes developing a relationship with Him. Paul already enjoyed a special relationship with Christ, but he stilled longed for a deeper and richer knowledge. This meant knowing Christ in this life. Paul wanted to know everything about Jesus. He wanted to know “the power of His resurrection.” Paul wants to know the power or strength available to the Christian through the resurrection of the Lord (Galatians 2:20; Philippians 4:13). But at the same time he felt the need for a constant renewal of that strength and power.

In addition, Paul wanted to know “the fellowship of his suffering.” “Fellowship” is sharing or joint participation. Paul felt no one could know Christ fully unless he shared in His suffering (Galatians 6:17; 2 Corinthians 4:10-11). Through suffering for the cause of Christ, Paul came to understand more clearly what the Lord had suffered for him. Paul concluded his thought with the words, “conformable unto his death.”With the help of the Lord, Paul was dying to himself (Galatians 2:20).

Paul’s desire to know Christ more fully had at least four facets:

1) A personal experience: “that I may know Him”

2) A powerful experience: “and the power of His resurrection”

3) A painful experience: “and the fellowship of His suffering”

4) A practical experience: “being conformable unto His death”

The beginning of our quest to know Christ is seen in Romans 6. Notice the emphasis on Christ’s suffering and resurrection and our need to conform to His death. Paul looked forward to Knowing Christ in the next life. This is evidently what Paul had in mind (Philippians 3:11; John 5:28-29). Paul very much looked forward to the time when he could know Christ fully.

Secondly, stay focused on a prize (Philippians 3:12-14). This includes the past, present, and future. Regarding the present: Humility Is Needed! “Not as though I had already attained…” (Philppians 3:12). Paul had not yet obtained the full knowledge of Christ, which would come at the resurrection. “…either were already perfect” (Philippians 3:12). Paul knew that he was not all he could be or should be. If Paul claimed he had room to grow, what about us? The Bible challenge is for us to grow (Ephesians 4:15; 2 Peter 3:18).

Regarding the past: Forgiveness Is Needed. How did Paul cope with not being all that he could be? We see this in his words, “forgetting those things which are behind” (Philppians 3:13). What did Paul forget? He forgot his past successes, as was seen earlier in this chapter. We can't rely on our past laurels. We must continue to prove ourselves. Paul also forgot his past failures. He admitted he was not “perfect” and he had not “laid hold.” Paul did not spend his time regretting, he repented and moved forward. Many allow the past to destroy their present and future (Hebrews 8:12).

Regarding the future: Progress Is Needed. When we dwell on the past we many times become distracted and discouraged. Paul said “this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before” (Philippians 3:13). Here Paul’s intensity is seen, he had a great desire to reach his spiritual goal. What was Paul reaching for? He (Paul) was reaching for the prize!Paul knew, and so should we, that this can only be done as we faithfully fulfill our mission. We must live faithfully and bring as many to Christ as we possible can (2 Timothy 4:7-8).

Thirdly, we must stay focused on people (Philippians 3:15-16). This is a genuine concern. In verses 4-14 we find Paul focused on his life (“I”- “me”-”my”-”myself”). But in verse 15 he suddenly shifts to the plural “Let us." This tells us that Paul’s focus in life was also on others. Paul wants everyone to have the attitude he has been describing. We are reminded that sometimes we are in need of a gentle correction; “and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you” (Philippians 3:15). Allow me to point out here that one trait of immaturity is an inadequate grasp of God’s word.

Paul was confident that they would get the instruction they needed to make the proper decisions. He was confident that the dissenters would soon learn better. The general command here is to: “Walk by the same rule…mind the same thing.” To be spiritually united we must have a common authority; that authority is God’s Word. God’s will for us will be plain if we will obediently adhere,or stick to His written word.

In summary, we must stay focused on the spiritual task before us. Certainly there are many important matters in life, but none are as important as following Jesus!

Let's Pray:

Dear Lord, govern everything by your wisdom, so that my soul may always be serving you in the way you will and not as I choose. Let me die to myself so that I may serve you; let me live to you who are life itself. Amen.

Until next week...

God bless you,

Rochelle

Bible Study Snacks, Romans 10:1-15

Hi, everyone!

Thank you so much for joining me as we continue our journey through the Book of Romans. I hope that all is well in your life! This week, we will be studying Chapter 10 verses 1-15. It is my most sincere hope that you'll find these Bible Study Snacks helpful and spiritually enlightening in your walk with God.

This week in summary...

As Paul continues to explain God's dealings with the nation of Israel, he repeats his expression of love towards them. Though as a nation they had plenty of zeal, unfortunately their zeal was not according to knowledge. Thus they rejected the righteousness of God while trying to establish their own righteousness through the Law of Moses. But Paul explains that Christ is the fulfillment of the Law and has brought it to an end.

The righteousness God now offers is based upon faith in Christ, not keeping the Law. It involves not the accomplishment of some great feat (like ascending to heaven or descending to hell), but such things as confessing Jesus as Lord and believing that God raised Him from the dead. As foretold by Scripture, it is offered to all, both Jew and Gentile. And it is offered through the medium of preaching the Word.

Let’s pray:

Heavenly father, please guide us as we study your Word today; I pray that our hearts and our minds will be open so that we will not only receive your Gospel, but learn from it as well; you are the Light of the world, Lord, and your Spirit will illuminate our path as we journey through your teachings. In the name of Jesus Christ, Our Lord and Savior. Amen.

Carefully read through Romans 10:1-15. Here again, I must stress the word “carefully” because if you aren’t “careful” you will miss Paul’s point. Let Paul speak to you through his writings as if he were right there with you, sharing his story in person.

This week’s study questions:

1. Who is Paul greatly concerned about at the beginning of this chapter (Romans 10:1; also refer to Romans 9:1-5)?
2. What are the two ways Paul sees his own concern for these people (Romans 10:1)?
3. Were they sincere in their religious beliefs (Romans 10:2)?
4. What was Paul’s criticism of their belief (Romans 10:2)?
5. List the three obstacles that these people had in becoming saved (Romans 10:3).
6. Complete Romans 10:4 (NIV version). Christ is the ___________ of the ______________ so that there may be _________________ for everyone who _______________________.
7. How does Moses describe the life based on the law (Romans 10:5)?
8. The righteousness based on faith is also spoken of in the Old Testament. What two truths about the Messiah are prophesied in these Old Testament verses (Romans 10:6-7)?
a) “Do not say in your heart, ‘Who will ascend into heaven?’ (that is, to bring Christ down.)
b) ‘Who will descend into the deep?’ (that is, to bring Christ up from the dead).”
9. Is the Messiah Paul preached about different than what they have in their Old Testament scriptures (Romans 10:8)?
10. We are very familiar with the confession stated in verse 9 and amplified in verse 10? What is the connection between this confession and the quote in verse (Romans 10:8)?
11. Paul is sharing the gospel with the Jews in these verses. Please write down the quote that he uses to clinch his powerful gospel presentation (Romans 10:11).
12. Paul was certain this message was not only for Jews but for Gentiles too. What scripture does he give to the Jews showing that salvation riches are for whoever calls upon Him (Romans 10:12-13)?
13. Paul also uses Old Testament scripture to defend his missionary zeal (Romans 10:14-15). Complete the logical steps Paul develops in these two verses.
a. How can they call upon the Lord if they haven’t _______________ (Romans 10:14)?
b. How can they believe unless they have ______________________ (Romans 10:14)?
c. How can they hear unless someone ________________________ to them (Romans 10:14)?
d. How can they preach unless someone _______________________ (Romans 10:15)?

Finally, after answering the study questions, re-read Romans Romans 10:1-15. Take your time and read each question and verse as many times as you feel necessary. Keep in mind that by doing this, you might see something new that you overlooked the first time around.

As we journey through our studies together, I will continue to pray that God’s message will come through to you loud and crystal clear. Until next time, I wish everyone a blessed week!

God bless you!

Sheri

Why Shouldn't I Be Baptized?

As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, "Look, here is water. Why shouldn't I be baptized?" -Acts 8:36 (NIV)

With the story of the Ethiopian eunuch, we have an example of conversion. It involved someone who was very religious, yet still lost (Acts 8:27-28); who was willing to learn, and open to being taught (Acts 8:29-34); to whom Philip preached Jesus (Acts 8:35); and who then immediately requested and received baptism (Acts 8:36-38).

His inquiry, "See, here is water. What hinders me from being baptized?" is enlightening. It reveals that baptism in water was integral to preaching Christ (Acts 8:35-36). Indeed it was commanded by Christ Himself (Mark 16:15-16). Similarly, His apostles commanded it as well (Acts 2:38; 10:47-48).

His (the eunuch) inquiry also raises questions that we do well to ask, as well. What does hinder, or prevent one from being baptized? And, what should not hinder one from being baptized? Let's see if we can answer these questions. Perhaps it is good to begin with that which "does hinder one."

For one thing, there may be the clear lack of faith. Belief in Christ as a prerequisite is clearly stated by Philip (Acts 8:37). Jesus also stressed the necessity of faith (Mark 16:16; John 8:24). For if one does not believe, or is incapable of belief, then that can prevent baptism.

Then there can be the lack of repentance. Repentance as a prerequisite to baptism is implied by Peter (Acts 2:36-38). It is clearly a prerequisite to having one's sins "blotted out" (Acts 3:19). If one does not repent, or is incapable of repentance, then that hinders baptism.

Maybe it's the lack of water? Here, we are talking about baptism in water (Acts 8:36; 10:47). This is a baptism that "washes away sin", because it is a burial with Christ (Acts 22:16; Romans 6:3-4). Therefore, if there is no water, then that hinders baptism.

Of course, lack of water is rarely the issue. God has made water plentiful. It is the lack of faith or repentance that is really the only thing that hinders one from being baptized. Yet people often allow things they should not to keep themselves from being baptized. But what "things" are we talking about? Let us now examine "what should not hinder one."

We shall begin with PRIDE. Some are too proud to admit they need forgiveness for their sins. Some are too proud to acknowledge they are mistaken about their need for baptism. Unfortunately, such pride will keep God away (Psalm 138:6; James 4:6). Pride should never hinder one from being baptized! Next, there is FAMILY. Some are concerned what their family will think. Perhaps they are afraid of being disowned by their family. Jesus made it clear that family should not prevent us from doing His will (Matthew 10:37-38). Family should never hinder one from being baptized!

Maybe it is PEER PRESSURE. Some are afraid of being ridiculed or ostracized by their friends. It was peer pressure that kept some from confessing Jesus (John 12:42-43). Jesus made it clear that what others think should not sway us (Luke 9:26). Peer pressure should never hinder one from being baptized! In some cases it might be IMPROPER UNDERSTANDING. Some believe they do not know enough to be baptized. They presume that one must know everything the Bible teaches. Yet like the eunuch, most conversions in the NT occurred after one sermon. Jesus stated that much teaching follows, not precedes, baptism (Matthew 28:19-20). If one is a penitent (expressing sorrow for sin) believer, willing to follow Jesus as Lord, they are ready.

Some believe they are not good enough to be baptized. They presume that they must reform themselves first. But baptism is for sinners, not saints. Much spiritual development occurs after salvation, not before (Colossians 3:1-14). If one has repented (changed their mind to serve God), they are ready. Misunderstanding should never hinder one from being baptized!

The TIME OF DAY OR NIGHT might prevent one from being baptized. Some may think baptism can occur only at certain times. As in response to the invitation at the end of a sermon, or at some special baptismal service. The eunuch's baptism illustrates it can be done anywhere, anytime (Acts 8:38). Likewise the baptisms of the Philippian jailor and his family (Acts 16:25-33). The time or place should never hinder one from being baptized!

After the eunuch was baptized, he went on his way rejoicing (Acts 8:39). Why? He believed that Jesus was the Christ, who died for his sins. He had confessed his faith in Jesus as the Christ. And even though it was not mentioned, we can assume that he repented of his sins. My dear friends, if you desire the same assurance of salvation that the eunuch enjoyed, then let nothing hinder you from obeying the gospel in the same manner. Be baptized as soon as possible, upon the confession of your faith in Jesus!

Prayer: The Lord's Prayer

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen

May God bless you,

Gayle

His Grace Runs Through All!

A man can no more take a supply of grace for the future than he can eat enough today to last him for the next six months, or take sufficient air into his lungs to sustain life for a week to come. We must draw upon God's boundless stores for grace from day to day, as we need it. —D. L. Moody

How can one define grace? The usual definition of grace, "unmerited favor," is not broad enough in scope to fully define all that is meant by the term. With this in mind, I refer you to a few examples: Luke 2:40 and Ecclesiastes 10:12.

W.E Vine defined grace this way..."That which bestows or occasions pleasure, delight, or causes favorable regard;...on the part of the bestower, the friendly disposition from which the kindly act proceeds, graciousness, lovingkindness, goodwill generally...especially with reference to the Divine favour or grace, e.g. Acts 14:26..." (Expository Dictionary of NT Words, 509-10)

This is a good time to turn to the Biblical definiton. Grace, in respect to salvation: is a summary of all God has done to effect the salvation of man. This includes all of God's acts which show favor to undeserving mankind. God's grace is more than mere passive pity. It expresses itself in real, concrete acts of love (Romans 5:8). His grace runs through all He has done for man's salvation. By grace: He sacrificed His Son (Hebrews 5:8-9).

He revealed His plan of salvation, as seen in: 1 Corinthians 2:9-12; Galatians 1:11-12; Ephesians 3:1-5; Titus 2:11-12; Hebrews 1:1-2; Ephesians 2:4-7; Romans 6:4-5; Matthew 16:18; Acts 20:28; Ephesians 5:25-27. We also see that grace excludes salvation by meritorious, or noble works (Romans 4:4; 11:16).

So what is the necessity of grace? Why do we need it? The reason that grace is needed is SIN: ALL HAVE SINNED (Romans 3:10, 23)! As evidence of this, the spiritual state of man is seen in many passages, such as: 1 Kings 8:46; Proverbs 20:9; Ecclesiastes 7:20; Psalm 14:2-3. We can also include here the fact that since man sold himself into the bondage of sin (John 8:34), and since all sinned (Ezekiel 18:20; Romans 6:23), all are under the sentence of death (Ezekiel 18:20; Romans 6:23).

Certainly this all sounds dark and desperate, however, God, in His matchless love, provided the ransom price for man's sins...His Son to die in man's place (2Corinthians 5:21; 1 Peter 1:18-19). While the grace of God is demonstrated in many ways, none is greater than its manifestation in His Son (Romans 3:23-24).

Now, as comforting as this may all sound, make no mistake that salvation is not merited! Man has sinned and deserves hell and no works he could do would earn or merit his salvation. Salvation is that which is given by God's grace. This is a favor that man has not merited. For that reason, salvation is the gift from God!

In closing, here are some things to consider. First, we ought to be grateful for the lovingkindness, favor and grace of our God. Secondly, without God's grace we would all be condemned for all of us has sinned. And lastly, look to God's grace, obey the gospel for the salvation of your soul.

Scripture: Ephesians 2:8-9

Let's pray:

May the grace of Christ our Savior,
And the Father's boundless love,
With the Holy Spirit's favor,
Rest upon us from above.

Thus may we abide in union
With each other and the Lord,
And possess, in sweet communion,
Joys which earth cannot afford.
Amen.

May God bless you,

Claire

Is God's Word Treasured In Your Heart?

For 176 verses the psalmist writes powerfully regarding the word of God. He begins with a blessing to all who walk in the Law, v. 1. He ends with expressions of longing for salvation according to the law, the commandments. The word of God is lifted high in prestige and importance for the child of God.

Today, I would like to emphasize the importance of the word applied to the heart. In my blog entry, I propose that God’s message to us encompasses three things. These are:

1) God’s word is to be hid in the heart.

2) God’s word hid guards against sin.

3) The heart with the word hid causes no offense.

I believe we can all see the essentiality of these matters and pay our closest attention to them. Let's begin with number one, "God’s Word Is To Be Hid In The Heart." Why God’s Word? He cannot lie, Titus 1:2. His word is truth, John 17:17. His word is effective, Hebrews 4:12; Jeremiah 23:29 because it saves, Romans 1:16; James 1:21 and because it equips, 2 Timothy 3:16-17.

What does “hid in the heart” mean? Hebrew scholars and more modern translation tell us that “hid” means “treasured.” This involves value, intent, stedfastness. Valued, Psalm 19:7-10. Intent, Ezra 7:10. Intent to learn and obey, Isaiah 2:2-3. Stedfastness, Acts 2:42. What is the heart? That which has thoughts, Genesis 6:5; Luke 2:19. So, to hide something in the heart is to value, learn and obey.

Next, let's look at number two, "God’s Word Hid Guards Against Sin." Some good examples would be Uzzah’s death caused by ignorance, 2 Samuel 6:1-7; 1 Chronicles 15:13-15. God’s words to be in their hearts, Deuteronomy 6:4-6. In Psalms 37:31, “The law of his God is in his heart: none of his steps shall slide.” See also, Acts 17:30-31.

Finally, let's take a look a number three, "The Heart With The Word Hid (Treasured) Causes No Offense." God turns from us when we are in sin, Isaiah 59:1-2. The sin problem is universal, Romans 3:23; and fatal, Romans 6:23. The heart with the word treasured will obey the Gospel, Romans 6:17. The heart with the treasured word walks in the light, 1 John 1:7-9 and seeks forgiveness, Acts 8:22; even in a wilderness, Acts 8:36.

You have just been given many examples of how God's message is not only treasured, but applied to the heart. The basic, but extremely important question I leave you with is this, "Is God’s Word treasured in your heart?"

Scripture: Psalm 119:11

Prayer:

My dear God, I come into your presence so aware of my human frailty and yet overwhelmed by your love for me. I thank you that there is no human experience that I might walk through where your love cannot reach me. If I climb the highest mountain you are there and yet if I find myself in the darkest valley of my life, you are there. Teach me today to love you more. Help me to rest in that love that asks nothing more than the simple trusting heart of a child. In Jesus name, Amen

Have a blessed day,

Klarisa

Be Content In Your Life!

“Contentment is a pearl of great price, and whosoever procures it at the expense of ten thousand desires makes a wise and happy purchase.” -John Balguy

Contentment is a very precious commodity to possess in this life of disappointments and heartaches. All Christians should join with King David and say, “He maketh me to lie in green pastures” (Psa. 23:2) – That’s a great picture of contentment! Many today are like the two little teardrops floating down the river of life. One tear drop asked the other, “Who are you?” “I am a teardrop from a girl who loved a man and lost him. But who are you?” The first tear drop replied, “I am a tear drop from the girl who got him.” Life is like as is seen in these teardrops. We all too often cry over the things we can’t have, but we might cry twice as hard if we had received them.

So, what is contentment? Viewed negatively, contentment is not insensibility. For instance, the Stoics strove to eliminate all feeling and all emotion until they could say, “I don’t care” if a plate has broken, or if some bodily injury happened to them. One could say that contentment does not destroy all possibility of caring. Also, contentment is not self-satisfaction, to be so happy with yourself that you never try improve yourself. I feel that it is worth noting here that contentment is not apathetic indifference.

Viewed positively, to be content means to rest satisfied, to be well-pleased; not to be disgruntled or disheartened. Webster says that contentment means “freedom from care and discomfort.” Content comes from autarkhs and means:

1) sufficient for one’s self, strong enough or processing enough to need no aid or support;
2) independent of external circumstances;
3) contented with one’s lot, though the slenderest.

Now what do the scriptures say about contentment?...

-“Be content with your wages” (Luke 3:14). Such was the teaching of John the Baptist to the soldiers. This type of contentment would prevent them from intimidating others, and practicing blackmail because of their low wage scale.
-(Philippians 4:11) Paul penned this while he was in prison! Yet, he was content!! How could this be??? Well, Paul had learned that contentment and happiness are not dependent on external circumstances, but inner qualities of the heart, and upon a right relationship with the Lord.
-(1 Timothy 6:6-8) Someone once said, “The poorest man in the world is the man who has more than he needs but feels like it isn’t enough.” In godliness and contentment there is GREAT gain.
-(Hebrews 13:5) This text is not teaching that we should not try to improve our status in life; but, rather that we should avoid a misplaced emphasis on the material things. This verse does not forbid all lawful efforts to improve our own condition and that of others, for that would be inconsistent with Bible teaching.
-(Ephesians 4:28) … work to be able to give to others.
-(Romans 12:11) … diligent working is serving the Lord. What Paul sets forth in this verse in Hebrews is, that no matter what the circumstances, put your trust in the Lord, and things will work together for our good.

There are six things that try to block the path to our to contentment. These are...

Covetousness - In Hebrews 13:5 covetousness is put over against contentment as the antithesis of contentment, and even as an enemy of contentment. The secret of contentment is knowing how to enjoy what you have and being able to loose all desire for things beyond your reach.
Unbelief - The Lord’s instruction to be content is based upon His promises that He will not forsake us, that He will never leave us, that He will help us and that we need not fear what man may do (Hebrews 13:5-6). He promises to sustain us with the physical necessities of life (Matthew 6:24-34; Psalm 37:25). If we believe God how can not help but be content?
Envy - Envy is the chagrin or discontent at the excellence or good fortune of another. Saul was content with the praise he was getting until he saw David getting more (1 Sam. 18:8-9). The Philistines were content with their lot until they saw the possessions of Isaac (Gen. 26:14). Haman was contented until he saw Mordecai sit in the king’s gate (Est. 5:9-14). Remember that envy is an insidious evil which must be eradicated from our hearts.
Pessimism - The discontented pessimist when asked how things are will reply, “They are so much more worse than yesterday, and so much better than I expect them to be tomorrow.”
Self-pity - The prodigal son was discontent personified, and he was guilty of self-pity (Luke 15:29). Too many cry, “Life has cheated me,” or “I’m so unfortunate.” I say that pity is good, but it ought not be wasted on one’s self.
Complaining - The discontented person is seldom willing to keep his discontent to himself. I'd like to quote this old example to you. “I complained about having no shoes until I saw a man who had no feet. I complained about no one visiting my family until I found a person who had no family. I complained about the family members until I moved where there were none. I complained about the Bible teacher until I tried teaching. I complained about not having fine clothes until I saw one in rags.”

In closing, how do we cultivate contentment? Here are some suggestions...

a) Work at it! Paul had to “learn” contentment (Philippians 4:11). Close the doors to the foes of contentment and develop the things which cultivate it.
b) Count your blessings. I refer you to: 1 Thessalonians 5:18 and Ephesians 5:20.
c) Transfer your attention and affection to higher and holier matters (Matthew 6:33).
Christ was contented; and, His meat was to do the will of His Father (John 4:34). You will seldom find a discontented person who is not also materialistic.
d) Keep busy. An idle mind is the devil’s workshop. Be like Jesus who went about doing good (Acts 10:38), then we will not have time to enlarge our bruises.
e) Think about how bad it could be. Things can always be a lot worse. You do not have to look far to find someone worse off than you!
f) Learn that happiness is not tied to things (Luke 12:15). Our society does not believe this. Thus, many are discontent.

Prayer:

Show us your mercy, O Lord; And grant us your salvation. Clothe your ministers with righteousness; Let your people sing with joy. Give peace, O Lord, in all the world; For only in you can we live in safety. Let your way be known upon earth; Your saving health among all nations. Let not the needy, O Lord, be forgotten; Nor the hope of the poor be taken away. Create in us clean hearts, O God; And sustain us by your Holy Spirit. Amen

May God bless you,

Karen

Saturday Scripture Gold, 1 Corinthians 10:11

Happy Saturday!

Thank you for joining me today. Each week, I will take a verse (or passage) from the Bible and dig beneath the surface to uncover the precious golden nuggets of truth, wisdom, and knowledge that lie waiting to be discovered. I pray that this will inspire you to do some "digging" of your own into God's scripture!

This week's Bible passage: 1 Corinthians 10:11

The Old Testament provides valuable lessons for the Christian. One such lesson is the importance of making wise choices in our lives (1 Corinthians 10:11). To review just a few of these lessons, we read that Lot made a choice as to where to live and as a result he experienced:
1) War and kidnapping (Genesis 14)
2) Oppression and torment by the ungodly citizens of Sodom (2 Peter 2:7-8).
3) Loss of all his possessions, death of his wife, and incest with his daughters (Genesis 19).
David chose to commit adultery with Bathsheba, and as a consequence he suffered:
1) The death of his infant son (2 Samuel 12).
2) A daughter molested by her half-brother (2 Samuel 13).
3) That son killed by her vengeful brother (2 Samuel 13).
4) A rebellion led by that son, who shamed him publicly, and whose death brought even more grief to David (2 Samuel 15-18).
With Lot and David illustrating the need for making wise choices, let's consider the following examples:
a. Some choices that greatly affect our lives
b. Suggestions for making wise choices
c. What to do when we have made the wrong choice

Let's begin today with choices that greatly affect our lives, starting with choosing Jesus. Will you follow Jesus or not? Will you become His disciple? Or will you refuse to accept His gracious offer of salvation (Matthew 11:28-30)? This one decision will affect your life more than any other! It will determine your place in eternity, and it will have a bearing on every other decision you make. How? As a disciple, you will be concerned with doing His will, and as a disciple, you will not simply "do your own thing" (Matthew 28:18-20).

Then there is choosing a career. Even from a worldly viewpoint, your choice is important. The job market is always changing. The wrong choice could lead to financial ruin or fiscal hardship. More importantly, the choice can have a lasting effect on: Your marriage and family, and your service to God. So make the choice to honor God first, and you will be blessed (Matthew 6:33), or make money the primary factor in your decision, and destruction will follow (1 Timothy 6:6-10).

How about in choosing a mate? This choice will determine to a great extent your degree of happiness (Proverbs 12:4). It will have a permanent bearing on your children and their emotional well-being. You may think you can simply divorce a person if they turn out to be a bad choice. But once you have children, there is no way to reverse the choice you made as to who is the mother or father of your children! The children are not unaffected by the violence of divorce (Malachi 2:16).

Choosing your friends is an important choice. Having close friends can be a wonderful blessing (Proverbs 17:17). But the wrong friends can be a curse (Proverbs 12:26; 1 Corinthians 15:33).

Choosing where to live is important, too. It was this choice where Lot made his mistake. It appeared to be a sound business decision (Genesis 13:10-11), but it was a poor moral decision (Genesis 13:13). Upon what basis do we choose where to live? Is it based solely on how much of house we can afford? Is it based upon the location to work, school, etc.? Do we consider whether it will help or hinder our service to God and His church? Just be aware that there may be some modern-day "Sodoms" and "Gommorahs" to avoid!

Remember, for every action there is a reaction, and for every choice there is a consequence. To increase the likelihood that our choices will have good consequences, here are a few suggestions for making wise choices...

1. Ask God for wisdom. He promises to give wisdom to those who ask in faith (James 1:5-8). Asking for wisdom requires diligence (Proverbs 2:1-9). And always fill your prayers with requests for wisdom to make wise choices!

2. Ask others for advice. There is safety in having many counselors (Proverbs 11:14). There is wisdom in heeding the counsel of others (Proverbs 12:15). in fact, here are two great sources for counsel: The Bible itself, especially a book like Proverbs, and older, mature Christians. Don't hesitate to ask others what they would do!

3. Commit your choices to the Lord. Trusting that you have made choices pleasing to Him, put them in His hands (Psalms 37:5-6, 23-26). Make your choices with the understanding, "if the Lord wills" (James 4:13-15). One might even ask the Lord that if a choice is not according His will... He might frustrate the carrying out of the choice, or to otherwise show you what is His will. Always include God in your decision making, if you wish to make wise choices!

I can honestly say here that there will be times when it becomes apparent that we made poor choices, even wrong ones. What can we do to avoid making matters worse?

We can respond to wrong choices by learning from the mistakes of others. Examples? Do what Lot did, heed and flee! Heed the Word of God. Do what you now know to be right without reservation (remember Lot's wife!) Do what Peter did, repent and serve! Repent, if sin is involved (as when Peter denied Christ). Serve the Lord with what time you have left in this life. Do what Paul did, accept and live! Accept the forgiveness Jesus provides (1 Timothy 1:12-16). Determine to live for the Lord to the best of your ability (Phlippians 3:13-14).

What would be the wrong thing to do? Continue to remain in the choice you've made because of pride, or some other reason! Or wallow in sorrow just to feel sorry for yourself over your guilt or loss!

In closing, may the examples of such men like Lot and David teach us the importance of making wise choices serve as a warning not to make our decisions lightly. And may we ever be open to the wisdom from God and the counsel of others as we make such choices as: our careers, our spouses, our friends, and where we will live.

Have you made the most important decision you will ever face in this life? The decision which will determine your eternal destiny? The decision to follow Jesus as your Lord and Savior? Why not decide today to follow Jesus, and become His disciple? (Matthew 28: 19-20; Act 2:36-41).

Let's Pray:

Dear Lord, govern everything by your wisdom, so that my soul may always be serving you in the way you will and not as I choose. Let me die to myself so that I may serve you; let me live to you who are life itself. Amen.

Until next week...

God bless you,

Rochelle