The Bible puts much emphasis on the mind. The hallmark Scripture in Philippians 4: 8 tells us this: "Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things." We need to be people who take every thought captive to the obedience of Christ for as a man thinks so is he.
The mind we brought to the Christian life is carnal and worldly. The mind God wants for us is one that sets itself on things above and not on things below. We must not change our thoughts but also conform our hearts into more and more Christ likeness. The Bible teaches that the way we are transformed is to renew our minds.
One of the greatest threats to our Christian walk is unbelief. It lies at the root of all sin against God. Gratefully the indwelling Holy Spirit can enable us to change our minds biblically and develop a Christ like one. This verse stands as one of the clearest commands in terms of where to set our minds and thus our hearts. We are to dwell on whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, of good repute, excellent and praise worthy. It isn't easy to corral the unbiblical thoughts that have been allowed to flourish for years. But as we consistently put them through this grid we can develop new habits of thinking. Thus bit by bit grow into greater obedience and become more like the Savior we serve.
Showing posts with label Christian Encouragement. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christian Encouragement. Show all posts
Saturday, February 8, 2014
Friday, February 7, 2014
Hope for the Abandoned and Alone
In today's depersonalized world it is easy to feel abandoned or alone. Gratefully God promises so many times in His Word that He is with us. I have been meditating and memorizing Deuteronomy 31:8 "The Lord is the One Who goes ahead of you; He will be with you. He will not fail you nor forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed." Genesis 28: 15: states: "Behold I am with you and will keep you wherever you go and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you. Psalm 138: 8 says: "The LORD will accomplish what concerns me; Your lovingkindness, O LORD, is everlasting; Do not forsake the works of Your hands."
The omnipotent and omniscient God is with all who trust in Him. He is patient in guiding and wise in direction. He loves us with a perfect love. He is for us and with us. He is on our side if we have trusted in His Son. Granted He disciplines us and sometimes severely so. But His ultimate goal is His glory and our good. He will perfect that which He has begun. It is comforting to know that in spite of some very hard circumstances He has the whole world in His hands as the song says.
Gill's commentary declares:
"Whatever good there is in us, it is God works in us both to will and to do. The Lord will perfect the salvation of every true believer, and he will never forsake those whom he has created anew in Christ Jesus unto good works."
The omnipotent and omniscient God is with all who trust in Him. He is patient in guiding and wise in direction. He loves us with a perfect love. He is for us and with us. He is on our side if we have trusted in His Son. Granted He disciplines us and sometimes severely so. But His ultimate goal is His glory and our good. He will perfect that which He has begun. It is comforting to know that in spite of some very hard circumstances He has the whole world in His hands as the song says.
Gill's commentary declares:
God is able to do it, and none can hinder him; he has promised to do it, and he is faithful who will do it; and his glory is concerned in it; and it may be depended on it will be finished; he is a rock, and his work is perfect.Matthew Henry states:
"Whatever good there is in us, it is God works in us both to will and to do. The Lord will perfect the salvation of every true believer, and he will never forsake those whom he has created anew in Christ Jesus unto good works."
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Antidote to Gloom
I have been focused on two verses to day found in Isaiah 58: 10-11:
And if you give yourself to the hungry
And satisfy the desire of the afflicted,
Then your light will rise in darkness
And your gloom will become like midday.
11 “And the Lord will continually guide you,
And satisfy your desire in scorched places,
And give strength to your bones;
And you will be like a watered garden,
And like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.
The prescription for gloom is to focus and meet the needs of others. We are not to merely look out for our own personal interests but the interests of others it states in Philippians 2: 3-4. Depression and gloom often have a self absorption component. God intends for us to perform acts of mercy and kindness. It reflects the Savior we serve. When we live for others we end up being like springs of water whose water never fail. We refresh others and are ourselves refreshed.
When we live for ourselves we flounder and sometimes end up in deep despair. When we pour out our lives for others, we are full and joyous. It is very easy to slowly give in to a selfish approach to life. It is our default position. But God says that small mindedness and a self serving life ends badly. As we turn away from us and turn our attention to the others, gloom lifts little by little. The fresh water of God's grace fills us with joy and we bubble over joyously in the lives of others.
And if you give yourself to the hungry
And satisfy the desire of the afflicted,
Then your light will rise in darkness
And your gloom will become like midday.
11 “And the Lord will continually guide you,
And satisfy your desire in scorched places,
And give strength to your bones;
And you will be like a watered garden,
And like a spring of water whose waters do not fail.
The prescription for gloom is to focus and meet the needs of others. We are not to merely look out for our own personal interests but the interests of others it states in Philippians 2: 3-4. Depression and gloom often have a self absorption component. God intends for us to perform acts of mercy and kindness. It reflects the Savior we serve. When we live for others we end up being like springs of water whose water never fail. We refresh others and are ourselves refreshed.
When we live for ourselves we flounder and sometimes end up in deep despair. When we pour out our lives for others, we are full and joyous. It is very easy to slowly give in to a selfish approach to life. It is our default position. But God says that small mindedness and a self serving life ends badly. As we turn away from us and turn our attention to the others, gloom lifts little by little. The fresh water of God's grace fills us with joy and we bubble over joyously in the lives of others.
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Scripture Memorization
Our associate pastor issued a call for the congregation to make scripture memorization a priority this year. I know where a lot of Scripture is located but I don't have it memorized word by word. I started this past week to memorize verses that I can more easily recall to mind when I need them It has helped ease the emotionality in my life somewhat. I am grateful. We need to trust in the promises of the Lord along with heed any warnings He gives. If we only trust the promises we can grow hardened to sin and make the Gospel self centered instead of God centered. If we emphasize the warnings we can become legalistic and paralyzed with fear. With a healthy balance between the promises and the warnings we can walk more powerfully by the Spirit.
When I am afraid or discouraged, I can bring these passages to mind to challenge my thoughts. Our default position isn't the Scripture but our own thoughts which often flow from our wicked hearts. We can learn to preach the Gospel to ourselves and take every thought captive. The proverb as a man thinks so is he is true. We can choose to dwell on the flesh or we can choose to embrace the word of the Spirit. I am grateful that the Bible gives much hope as we meditate upon Jesus and focuses our gaze upon the Lord. Someone once said that for every glance at ourselves we need to take ten glances at Jesus Christ. Memorizing His Word is a good way to do that!
When I am afraid or discouraged, I can bring these passages to mind to challenge my thoughts. Our default position isn't the Scripture but our own thoughts which often flow from our wicked hearts. We can learn to preach the Gospel to ourselves and take every thought captive. The proverb as a man thinks so is he is true. We can choose to dwell on the flesh or we can choose to embrace the word of the Spirit. I am grateful that the Bible gives much hope as we meditate upon Jesus and focuses our gaze upon the Lord. Someone once said that for every glance at ourselves we need to take ten glances at Jesus Christ. Memorizing His Word is a good way to do that!
Monday, January 13, 2014
Habit Change
I was talking with some ladies from my church today about habits. Habits are long time patterns of behaviors or thinking that become automatic over time. Unfortunately I have some very bad habits. Some of which are nearly as old as I am. It can be hard, very hard, to alter your patterns. But there is hope. If you have the Holy Spirit dwelling within you, change is possible. It is not easy but it is possible. God's Word is full of encouragement for those who want to make things different. We need to preach truth to ourselves throughout the day. Some of the "stinkin' thinkin'" has been in our heads for so long we don't even know we are thinking at all. The thoughts are there like deep ruts in a rural road. The thoughts must be rooted out and replaced with new thoughts. II Corinthians 5: 17 "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
Much of the success in changing habits lies in what you believe about God. His Word tells us what we need to tell ourselves. First, God is completely sovereign, infinitely wise and perfectly loving. We can trust Him to help us. Tim Chester points out in his book "You Can Change" that He is also good, gracious, great and glorious. That means that God and not us controls everything. No random molecule in the universe gets past Him. He takes away the fear of man. He is the ultimate source of all good and we can stop looking to other gods to satisfy. We don't have to join the rat race to prove ourselves to anybody. If you are like me, there are habits to break. It will take a lot of hard work but God is there as a very present help in times of trouble. Please pray for me and others as we set out this year to resolve to change some things.
Much of the success in changing habits lies in what you believe about God. His Word tells us what we need to tell ourselves. First, God is completely sovereign, infinitely wise and perfectly loving. We can trust Him to help us. Tim Chester points out in his book "You Can Change" that He is also good, gracious, great and glorious. That means that God and not us controls everything. No random molecule in the universe gets past Him. He takes away the fear of man. He is the ultimate source of all good and we can stop looking to other gods to satisfy. We don't have to join the rat race to prove ourselves to anybody. If you are like me, there are habits to break. It will take a lot of hard work but God is there as a very present help in times of trouble. Please pray for me and others as we set out this year to resolve to change some things.
Monday, January 6, 2014
Zephaniah 3:17
There is a verse that has been very comforting to me during the past two years. Zephaniah 3:17 "The Lord your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy." I struggle experientially to know the love of God but His Word states emphatically that the Lord loves His own. I have heard that the picture here is of God with His child tucked securely between His shoulder blades. Also the child who is snuggled upon His chest. As I view the pictures of a newborn son of some friends, I am better reminded of this verse. Dad has the baby close to him and smiling. I think it captures the verse well.
John Gill writes of this verse:
John Gill writes of this verse:
...there is a pleonasm of joy in Christ's heart towards his people, and so a redundancy in his expression of it; he rejoices with joy, and joys with singing; which shows how delighted he is with his people, as they are his chosen, redeemed, and called ones; as they have his own righteousness upon them, and his own grace in them; they are his "Hephzibah", in whom he delights; his "Beulah", to whom he is married; and it is his love of complacency and delight, which is the source of all the grace and glory he bestows upon them.
Monday, May 27, 2013
Andy the Anole
A few months ago a good friend of mine rescued an anole. He looks kind of like a baby lizard about the size of a large gecko. I think he was six or seven inches from head to tail. One of her dogs had gotten to him. His back was injured and he was in bad shape. He had scrapes and cuts particularly on his thighs and calves (not sure that is reptile anatomy but you know what I mean). She thought his back might be broken. My friend is an animal lover and has volumes of experience with exotic animals. So she took him in to nurse him back to health. Enter Wendy the skeptic. Frankly I thought he would live maybe another week and then pass on to lizard heaven.
My friend gave me periodic updates. I was amazed. She kept him in a glass aquarium in her front bathroom. The little guy kept getting better. As bad as his wounds were I could have sworn he was history. My friend persevered. The scars on his legs started to heal as he shed his old skin and new skin grew. He was able to scurry a bit in the bottom of the aquarium but his legs dragged greatly. Most of the work was done by his front legs. Time passed. My friend persevered. His back got stronger. He could move his back legs. Then he could scramble on the side of the aquarium and his little toes held him secure momentarily. He never gave up and neither did she. She continued to feed him whatever anoles eat. This past week she let him go back to his natural habitat. He had gotten healed enough that it was the only humane thing to do. Under her loving and protective care he was ready to move out into life again.
I can relate to Andy. The past months God has cared for me as I rebound from a hard place. He has kindly and mercifully ministered to me in ways that have brought some wholeness. There is more to do because sanctification is progressive. I am more confident in Him than I was a year ago. I am better able to trust Him and His Word. I am prayerfully a lot more gentle and less self righteous. Hopefully I am less self centered, fearful and depressed. Yep I can relate to old Andy. I am grateful for the Lord whose name is Jehovah Rapha--the God Who heals. I think Andy may be a wee bit grateful too.
My friend gave me periodic updates. I was amazed. She kept him in a glass aquarium in her front bathroom. The little guy kept getting better. As bad as his wounds were I could have sworn he was history. My friend persevered. The scars on his legs started to heal as he shed his old skin and new skin grew. He was able to scurry a bit in the bottom of the aquarium but his legs dragged greatly. Most of the work was done by his front legs. Time passed. My friend persevered. His back got stronger. He could move his back legs. Then he could scramble on the side of the aquarium and his little toes held him secure momentarily. He never gave up and neither did she. She continued to feed him whatever anoles eat. This past week she let him go back to his natural habitat. He had gotten healed enough that it was the only humane thing to do. Under her loving and protective care he was ready to move out into life again.
I can relate to Andy. The past months God has cared for me as I rebound from a hard place. He has kindly and mercifully ministered to me in ways that have brought some wholeness. There is more to do because sanctification is progressive. I am more confident in Him than I was a year ago. I am better able to trust Him and His Word. I am prayerfully a lot more gentle and less self righteous. Hopefully I am less self centered, fearful and depressed. Yep I can relate to old Andy. I am grateful for the Lord whose name is Jehovah Rapha--the God Who heals. I think Andy may be a wee bit grateful too.
Saturday, May 18, 2013
A Letter to a Graduate
I wrote the letter below to one of the high school graduates this May.
I am so proud of all you high school and college graduates. It has been a long road but one well worth the journey. I pray you never take for granted your home school experience. God gave a great grace to you who are reared and taught in true Christian homes. I’ve loved getting to know you and your family better. It is a particularly sweet blessing to me. I am grateful for how your parents have protected you and poured out their lives into yours. Again it is a reminder to be thankful to the Lord. Some of us didn’t have such a blessing and our lives are all the more difficult because of it.
I am so proud of all you high school and college graduates. It has been a long road but one well worth the journey. I pray you never take for granted your home school experience. God gave a great grace to you who are reared and taught in true Christian homes. I’ve loved getting to know you and your family better. It is a particularly sweet blessing to me. I am grateful for how your parents have protected you and poured out their lives into yours. Again it is a reminder to be thankful to the Lord. Some of us didn’t have such a blessing and our lives are all the more difficult because of it.
I pray that in the days to come you continue to hold God’s
Word in high esteem. The Bible is
literally the Word of God,. No other book can genuinely claim to be written by
the Holy Spirit. Its truths resonate
throughout the ages. Cling to it
especially when the world seeks to pound your head and heart with its
lies. Rely on it for your every need in
all situations. God is faithful and will
never let you down. You face a world of
immense deception. Satan is called in the Holy Writ as the father of lies. Even
his subtle distortion is deadly. Know His Word well and filter everything you
hear or read through it.
Surround yourself with godly people of all ages. Remember those seasoned by many years can
teach you much. Your close peers should be people of excellence and good repute
who know the Savior. Don’t ever
compromise for it is the devil’s playground Reach back to those younger than
you and serve as a role model for them.
Disciple some in the doctrines of the faith and you will solidify your
own. You won’t be perfect but to invest
into another’s life reaps much benefit.
Find a solid church and commit yourself to it wholeheartedly. Again, there is no perfect church but cling
to one where the Bible is taught, the sacraments administered and church
discipline is practiced. God has called His people to body life and it is there
that you will find protection, growth and service. No believer survives without others to come
alongside.
Last but foremost keep your passion for Jesus Christ
ablaze. Allow nothing to come between
you and your Lord. Strive to discover
and do all that is required of you.
Cling to His Spirit in times of trial and temptation. Cultivate an active and vibrant friendship—what
grace to be a friend of God! Seek Him as
you travel through life. There is no greater
source of comfort, companionship and consolation than Jesus Himself. Shun all that grieves Him. So live that the
world hates you but God is pleased.
Cultivate godliness. Draw near to Him and He will draw near to you. There is no greater place to be than in the bull’s-eye
of God’s obedience. Watch for the pitfalls of the flesh and the enemy. The journey can be loaded with
landmines. Only Christ can guide you
safely through.
I pray for you as you embark on the next step of life. God
has a plan and a purpose for your life.
Do the next right thing as you go through everyday. Stay in His circle of
blessing. Reject the false and cling to
what is good. May His countenance shine on your always. In His grace, Wendy
Sunday, April 21, 2013
The Sovereign Will of God
Tonight I went to a church service at a church in Arlington. Two of my close friends are members there. One was supposed to give her testimony about the ways God had worked in her life. She suffers from COPD and is on oxygen every day all day. She carries with her a portable oxygen tank. Tonight she ran out before she had a chance to speak. We had to leave for her house before her saturation level dropped dangerously low. I went with her and she left the written testimony for our other friend to share. She got home in time and was able to breathe easier. The friend read her testimony for her.
I love how God can make something happen according to His will regardless of the interference. The testimony obviously was meant to be shared tonight in church. Even though one friend had to leave, the other carried on. God's ways are perfect. His will is done even in what is seemingly small moments of life. It is comforting to know that even though we have an enemy opposing us God is triumphant. His will trumps everything else.
I love how God can make something happen according to His will regardless of the interference. The testimony obviously was meant to be shared tonight in church. Even though one friend had to leave, the other carried on. God's ways are perfect. His will is done even in what is seemingly small moments of life. It is comforting to know that even though we have an enemy opposing us God is triumphant. His will trumps everything else.
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Ministry of Compassion
Today was a wonderful Resurrection Day. I worshipped the Lord at my church through hearing His Word and praising Him in song. After the service I was struck by the fact that pain doesn't stop in people's lives just because it's a holiday. I realized that there were hurting people among us. A number of people came up to one young woman to encourage her. It was a joy to watch as others went to her instead of going away as people often do. It edified me to be in a church where believers are taught that ministry is ongoing. Especially the ministry to the hurting.
I'm reading through the Gospel of Mark and have been impressed by the compassion of Christ. He didn't let the fact of the Sabbath stop Him from helping the hurting. The religious hypocritical leaders judged Him for it. He ministered anyway. Jesus was about healing the broken hearted. He never downplayed their sin but He offered them the Way out. He is the way, the truth and the life. He gave that life 2000 years ago on a Cross to die for the sins of the elect. He transformed the world then and He is still doing it now. His Spirit lives to help the hurting. We, the church, are the temple of the Holy Spirit. He uses us to minister life to the dead, help to the hurting and freedom to those in bondage to sin. What a glorious opportunity to reflect God to those around us.
I'm reading through the Gospel of Mark and have been impressed by the compassion of Christ. He didn't let the fact of the Sabbath stop Him from helping the hurting. The religious hypocritical leaders judged Him for it. He ministered anyway. Jesus was about healing the broken hearted. He never downplayed their sin but He offered them the Way out. He is the way, the truth and the life. He gave that life 2000 years ago on a Cross to die for the sins of the elect. He transformed the world then and He is still doing it now. His Spirit lives to help the hurting. We, the church, are the temple of the Holy Spirit. He uses us to minister life to the dead, help to the hurting and freedom to those in bondage to sin. What a glorious opportunity to reflect God to those around us.
Thursday, March 28, 2013
An Encouraging Word
In the last couple of weeks I've gotten phone calls and notes from people I haven't heard from in a year or two. I was on their minds so they called or wrote. I can't tell you what an encouragement it is to hear from them. The song says "Where seldom is heard a discouraging word..." That should be for believers too. Scripture calls us to encourage one another. Hebrews 10: 24-25: " and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, 25 not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near." With every day that passes the day of Christ's return is nearer. Let us not fail to reach out to one another and stimulate them to good deeds.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Scripture Cards
Most of you are likely thinking of memory verses on index cards, Those are called Scripture cards. But tonight I was re-reading some of the greeting cards I've gotten through the year. I was blessed immensely in that almost every card came with a verse or more on it. It was so edifying to read not only the printed words but the hand written verses of encouragement. My family has teased me in the past for saving every greeting card I get. Tonight when I had a case of "the lonelies" it was helpful to be reminded of how many people really do care. Many of you probably already send cards with Bible verses on it. If not, let me encourage you to do so. It is a double blessing.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Great Faithfulness
"This I recall to my mind, therefore I have hope. The Lord's lovingkindness indeed never cease, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning, great is Thy faithfulness." Lamentations 3: 21-23.
I was meditating on this verse today. How grateful I am that His mercies ARE new every morning; His compassions NEVER FAIL; GREAT is His faithfulness. Night time is a very hard time for me. But this verse gave me hope that in the new day He will meet me there. He will get me though the entire day as I turn to Him in reliance and dependence.
What a blessing it was to spend last night with my sister Kristy for her birthday. My other sister Kae and my Mom Helen joined us. We ate at Red Lobster (nice pick Kristy!) and had a wonderful time fellowshipping together. It's been over five years since that has happened. God was good to convict me of my pride and need to reconcile.
I'm also blessed by my part time (?) job with Sister Frances. She is a pistol. She finds more places to go and do! I'm always nonplussed. Yesterday we were out at a car dealership in Weatherford to have her car's brakes checked. They were fine but the car needed two new tires. We spent most of the two hour wait talking to the oldest car salesman on the floor. He and sister go way back like 30 years. I enjoyed the time listening to them reminisce. Sister knows an awful lot of people. I figure when baseball season starts it could get really interesting. I understand she beats the drum for the Rangers. Some of whom are coming to visit the assisted living sometime in March.
I'm blessed that Helen is making some decisions about my Dad's care and was helped immensely tonight through a conversation with a friend of mine who has been through a lot with her Mother who recently passed away. I could see visible relief on Helen's face as she talked. God does use the things we have gone through to help others. I think Helen has more peace about her decision with my Father. I'm glad. God is good. It's time for me to spend some quiet time thanking and praising Him. I hope you can do the same.
I was meditating on this verse today. How grateful I am that His mercies ARE new every morning; His compassions NEVER FAIL; GREAT is His faithfulness. Night time is a very hard time for me. But this verse gave me hope that in the new day He will meet me there. He will get me though the entire day as I turn to Him in reliance and dependence.
What a blessing it was to spend last night with my sister Kristy for her birthday. My other sister Kae and my Mom Helen joined us. We ate at Red Lobster (nice pick Kristy!) and had a wonderful time fellowshipping together. It's been over five years since that has happened. God was good to convict me of my pride and need to reconcile.
I'm also blessed by my part time (?) job with Sister Frances. She is a pistol. She finds more places to go and do! I'm always nonplussed. Yesterday we were out at a car dealership in Weatherford to have her car's brakes checked. They were fine but the car needed two new tires. We spent most of the two hour wait talking to the oldest car salesman on the floor. He and sister go way back like 30 years. I enjoyed the time listening to them reminisce. Sister knows an awful lot of people. I figure when baseball season starts it could get really interesting. I understand she beats the drum for the Rangers. Some of whom are coming to visit the assisted living sometime in March.
I'm blessed that Helen is making some decisions about my Dad's care and was helped immensely tonight through a conversation with a friend of mine who has been through a lot with her Mother who recently passed away. I could see visible relief on Helen's face as she talked. God does use the things we have gone through to help others. I think Helen has more peace about her decision with my Father. I'm glad. God is good. It's time for me to spend some quiet time thanking and praising Him. I hope you can do the same.
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Spiritual Blessings
My friend Dathel just sent me this list of spiritual blessings in Christ. I think these serve as my reasons to be thankful today.
You are complete in Christ who is the Head of all principality and power (Colossians 2:10).
You have been crucified with Christ (Galatians 2:20).
You are dead to sin (Romans 6:2).
You have been made alive with Christ (Ephesians 2:5).
You are free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2).
You are born of God, and the evil one does not touch you (1 John 5:18).
You are holy and without blame before Him in love (Ephesians 1:4; 1 Peter 1:16).
You have been given the peace of God that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
You have the Greater One living in you and greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4).
You have received the gift of righteousness and reign in life by Jesus Christ (Romans 5:17).
You have received the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Jesus (Ephesians 1:17-18).
You can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens you (Philippians 4:13).
You show forth the praises of God who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).
You are God’s child, born again of the incorruptible seed of the Word of God (1 Peter 1:23; John 1:12).
You are God’s masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus unto good works (Ephesians 2:10).
You are a new creature in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).
You are alive to God (Romans 6:11).
You are an heir of God and a joint-heir with Christ (Romans 8:17).
You are more than a conqueror through Him who loves you (Romans 8:37).
You have been brought near to God by the blood of Christ (Ephesians 2:13).
You are beloved of God (1 John 4:10).
You are loved by the Father the same way Jesus is loved by the Father (John 17:23).
You have been redeemed from the curse of the Law (Galatians 3:13).
You have been justified from all things (Acts 13:39).
You are now God’s offspring (1 John 3:2).
You are the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13).
You have been reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:18).
You have been accepted by God in the Beloved Son (Ephesians 1:6).
You are kept by the power of God (1 Corinthians 1:8).
You are free in Christ (John 8:36; Galatians 5:1).
You are in Christ’s hands out of which no one can pluck you out (John 10:28).
You are in the Father’s hands out of which no one can pluck you out (John 10:29).
You are an overcomer by the blood of the Lamb and the word of your testimony (Revelation 12:11).
You are a partaker of His divine nature (2 Peter 1:3-4).
You are part of a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a purchased people (1 Peter 2:9).
You are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:21).
You are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19).
You are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14).
You are God’s elect, full of mercy, kindness, humility, and longsuffering (Romans 8:33; Colossians 3:12).
You are forgiven of all sins and washed in the blood (Ephesians 1:7).
You have been delivered from the power of darkness and translated into God’s kingdom (Colossians 1:13).
You have put off the old man and have put on the new man (Colossians 3:9-10).
You are healed by the stripes of Jesus (1 Peter 2:24).
You are raised up with Christ and seated in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6; Colossians 2:12).
You have overcome the world (1 John 5:4).
You are greatly loved by God (Romans 1:7; Ephesians 2:4; Colossians 3:12; 1 Thessalonians 1:4).
You are strengthened with all might according to His glorious power (Colossians 1:11).
You have not been given a spirit of fear, but of love, power, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).
You have Christ living inside of you (Galatians 2:20).
You are a holy one (Colossians 1:2).
You are one spirit with the Lord (1 Corinthians 6:17).
You are holy, unreprovable, and unblameable in His sight (Colossians 1:22).
You are a member of Christ’s holy body (1 Corinthians 12:27).
You have been given all things that pertain to life and godliness (1 Peter 1:3).
You are light in the Lord (Ephesians 5:8).
You have been given all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ (Ephesians 1:3).
You have been chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4).
You have been justified (just as if you had never sinned) (Romans 5:1).
You are a branch on the true Vine (John 15:1, 5).
You are born of God (1 John 5:18).
You have direct access to the throne of grace through Jesus Christ (Hebrews 4:14-16).
You are free from condemnation and you cannot be charged or indicted (Romans 8:1, 32-34).
You have been established, anointed and sealed by God (2 Corinthians 1:21-22).
You are hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:1-4).
You are a citizen of heaven (Philippians 3:20).
You are at peace with God (Romans 5:1).
You have everlasting life (John 5:24).
You are kept by God’s power (1 Peter 1:5).
You are in Christ Jesus by God’s act (1 Corinthians 1:30).
You cannot be separated from God’s love in Christ (Romans 8:35-39).
You are fit to partake of His inheritance (Colossians 1:12; Ephesians 1:14).
You are part of Christ’s bride that He cherishes, bone of His bone and flesh of His flesh (Ephesians 5:29-32).
You are a king and priest unto God (Revelation 1:6).
You have been sealed with the promised Holy Spirit until the day of redemption (Ephesians 1:13; 4:30).
God will complete the good work that He started in you (Philippians 1:6).
God is for you even when others are against you (Romans 8:31).
You are complete in Christ who is the Head of all principality and power (Colossians 2:10).
You have been crucified with Christ (Galatians 2:20).
You are dead to sin (Romans 6:2).
You have been made alive with Christ (Ephesians 2:5).
You are free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2).
You are born of God, and the evil one does not touch you (1 John 5:18).
You are holy and without blame before Him in love (Ephesians 1:4; 1 Peter 1:16).
You have been given the peace of God that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7).
You have the Greater One living in you and greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4).
You have received the gift of righteousness and reign in life by Jesus Christ (Romans 5:17).
You have received the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Jesus (Ephesians 1:17-18).
You can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens you (Philippians 4:13).
You show forth the praises of God who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9).
You are God’s child, born again of the incorruptible seed of the Word of God (1 Peter 1:23; John 1:12).
You are God’s masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus unto good works (Ephesians 2:10).
You are a new creature in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).
You are alive to God (Romans 6:11).
You are an heir of God and a joint-heir with Christ (Romans 8:17).
You are more than a conqueror through Him who loves you (Romans 8:37).
You have been brought near to God by the blood of Christ (Ephesians 2:13).
You are beloved of God (1 John 4:10).
You are loved by the Father the same way Jesus is loved by the Father (John 17:23).
You have been redeemed from the curse of the Law (Galatians 3:13).
You have been justified from all things (Acts 13:39).
You are now God’s offspring (1 John 3:2).
You are the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13).
You have been reconciled to God (2 Corinthians 5:18).
You have been accepted by God in the Beloved Son (Ephesians 1:6).
You are kept by the power of God (1 Corinthians 1:8).
You are free in Christ (John 8:36; Galatians 5:1).
You are in Christ’s hands out of which no one can pluck you out (John 10:28).
You are in the Father’s hands out of which no one can pluck you out (John 10:29).
You are an overcomer by the blood of the Lamb and the word of your testimony (Revelation 12:11).
You are a partaker of His divine nature (2 Peter 1:3-4).
You are part of a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a purchased people (1 Peter 2:9).
You are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus (2 Corinthians 5:21).
You are the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19).
You are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14).
You are God’s elect, full of mercy, kindness, humility, and longsuffering (Romans 8:33; Colossians 3:12).
You are forgiven of all sins and washed in the blood (Ephesians 1:7).
You have been delivered from the power of darkness and translated into God’s kingdom (Colossians 1:13).
You have put off the old man and have put on the new man (Colossians 3:9-10).
You are healed by the stripes of Jesus (1 Peter 2:24).
You are raised up with Christ and seated in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6; Colossians 2:12).
You have overcome the world (1 John 5:4).
You are greatly loved by God (Romans 1:7; Ephesians 2:4; Colossians 3:12; 1 Thessalonians 1:4).
You are strengthened with all might according to His glorious power (Colossians 1:11).
You have not been given a spirit of fear, but of love, power, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).
You have Christ living inside of you (Galatians 2:20).
You are a holy one (Colossians 1:2).
You are one spirit with the Lord (1 Corinthians 6:17).
You are holy, unreprovable, and unblameable in His sight (Colossians 1:22).
You are a member of Christ’s holy body (1 Corinthians 12:27).
You have been given all things that pertain to life and godliness (1 Peter 1:3).
You are light in the Lord (Ephesians 5:8).
You have been given all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ (Ephesians 1:3).
You have been chosen in Christ before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:4).
You have been justified (just as if you had never sinned) (Romans 5:1).
You are a branch on the true Vine (John 15:1, 5).
You are born of God (1 John 5:18).
You have direct access to the throne of grace through Jesus Christ (Hebrews 4:14-16).
You are free from condemnation and you cannot be charged or indicted (Romans 8:1, 32-34).
You have been established, anointed and sealed by God (2 Corinthians 1:21-22).
You are hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:1-4).
You are a citizen of heaven (Philippians 3:20).
You are at peace with God (Romans 5:1).
You have everlasting life (John 5:24).
You are kept by God’s power (1 Peter 1:5).
You are in Christ Jesus by God’s act (1 Corinthians 1:30).
You cannot be separated from God’s love in Christ (Romans 8:35-39).
You are fit to partake of His inheritance (Colossians 1:12; Ephesians 1:14).
You are part of Christ’s bride that He cherishes, bone of His bone and flesh of His flesh (Ephesians 5:29-32).
You are a king and priest unto God (Revelation 1:6).
You have been sealed with the promised Holy Spirit until the day of redemption (Ephesians 1:13; 4:30).
God will complete the good work that He started in you (Philippians 1:6).
God is for you even when others are against you (Romans 8:31).
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Oh Death Where Is Thy Sting?
I admit there is an ache in my heart since my dog died. When I walk into the apartment I see her crate, her food bowl, and her bed. There are countless reminders of her existence. Death separates us from those we love. I hate that. How grateful I am that Jesus Christ overcame death. As I watched Spirit decline so quickly in the past ten days or so I saw first hand how frail is the flesh--animal and human alike. Death is the great equalizer for we all must die unless the Lord returns in the air for us.
There is a loneliness that heightens after a death and for a few weeks, months and even years there is an ache longing to be fulfilled. God never intended us to be separated from Him. That is why the Gospel is so wonderful. It preaches to us that death is not victorious and it doesn't win. God has sent Christ that through Him we can be reconciled to a holy God. Our sin can be forgiven through the blood of Jesus and we can once again now we belong to Someone. One day Christ will return and set up His Kingdom and there will be an eternal oneness. Finally, when we see Him face to face we the ache we feel on earth will be forever banished.
There is a loneliness that heightens after a death and for a few weeks, months and even years there is an ache longing to be fulfilled. God never intended us to be separated from Him. That is why the Gospel is so wonderful. It preaches to us that death is not victorious and it doesn't win. God has sent Christ that through Him we can be reconciled to a holy God. Our sin can be forgiven through the blood of Jesus and we can once again now we belong to Someone. One day Christ will return and set up His Kingdom and there will be an eternal oneness. Finally, when we see Him face to face we the ache we feel on earth will be forever banished.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Recipe for a Godly Marriage
I wrote this a few years ago when a close young friend of mine married. It's based on Ephesians 5: 1-33. Here are the ingredients:
- Imitate God and walk as His children.
- Walk in sacrificial love.
- Avoid all immorality, impurity and evil talk.
- Give thanks in all things.
- Don't be deceived.
- Walk in the Light.
- Learn what pleases the Lord.
- Expose unfruitful deeds of darkness.
- Walk wisely and not unwisely.
- Make the most of you time in these evil days.
- Be filled with the Holy Spirit.
- Make melody with your heart to the Lord.
- Don't be foolish and understand God's will.
- Be subject to one another in Christ.
- Wives be subject to and respect your husbands.
- Husbands love your wives as Christ loved the Church.
- Be holy and blameless by the washing of the Word of God.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Father's Love Letter, Barry Adams
This message has meant a lot to me the past week as I focus on the love and grace of God. I hope it ministers to you also.
My Child,
You may not know me but I know everything about you. Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up. Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways. Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered. Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in my image. Genesis 1:27
In me you live and move and have your being.Acts 17:28
For you are my offspring.Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived. Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation. Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book. Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live. Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb. Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born. Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me.John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love. 1 John 4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you. 1 John 3:1
Simply because you are my child and I am your Father. 1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could. Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect father. Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand. James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs. Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope. Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love.Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore.Psalms 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you. Jeremiah 32:40
For you are my treasured possession. Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul. Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things. Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me. Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires. Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine. Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you. Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart. Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes. Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth. Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus.John 17:23
For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed. John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my being. Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you. Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins.2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you. 1 John 4:10
I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love. Romans 8:31-32
If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me. 1 John 2:23
And nothing will ever separate you from my love again. Romans 8:38-39
Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen.Luke 15:7
I have always been Father, and will always be Father.Ephesians 3:14-15
My question is…Will you be my child? John 1:12-13
I am waiting for you. Luke 15:11-32
My Child,
You may not know me but I know everything about you. Psalm 139:1
I know when you sit down and when you rise up. Psalm 139:2
I am familiar with all your ways. Psalm 139:3
Even the very hairs on your head are numbered. Matthew 10:29-31
For you were made in my image. Genesis 1:27
In me you live and move and have your being.Acts 17:28
For you are my offspring.Acts 17:28
I knew you even before you were conceived. Jeremiah 1:4-5
I chose you when I planned creation. Ephesians 1:11-12
You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book. Psalm 139:15-16
I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live. Acts 17:26
You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:14
I knit you together in your mother's womb. Psalm 139:13
And brought you forth on the day you were born. Psalm 71:6
I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me.John 8:41-44
I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love. 1 John 4:16
And it is my desire to lavish my love on you. 1 John 3:1
Simply because you are my child and I am your Father. 1 John 3:1
I offer you more than your earthly father ever could. Matthew 7:11
For I am the perfect father. Matthew 5:48
Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand. James 1:17
For I am your provider and I meet all your needs. Matthew 6:31-33
My plan for your future has always been filled with hope. Jeremiah 29:11
Because I love you with an everlasting love.Jeremiah 31:3
My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore.Psalms 139:17-18
And I rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17
I will never stop doing good to you. Jeremiah 32:40
For you are my treasured possession. Exodus 19:5
I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul. Jeremiah 32:41
And I want to show you great and marvelous things. Jeremiah 33:3
If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me. Deuteronomy 4:29
Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4
For it is I who gave you those desires. Philippians 2:13
I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine. Ephesians 3:20
For I am your greatest encourager. 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you. Psalm 34:18
As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart. Isaiah 40:11
One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes. Revelation 21:3-4
And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth. Revelation 21:3-4
I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus.John 17:23
For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed. John 17:26
He is the exact representation of my being. Hebrews 1:3
He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you. Romans 8:31
And to tell you that I am not counting your sins.2 Corinthians 5:18-19
Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you. 1 John 4:10
I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love. Romans 8:31-32
If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me. 1 John 2:23
And nothing will ever separate you from my love again. Romans 8:38-39
Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen.Luke 15:7
I have always been Father, and will always be Father.Ephesians 3:14-15
My question is…Will you be my child? John 1:12-13
I am waiting for you. Luke 15:11-32
Friday, January 25, 2013
Clean Out the Clutter
One of the ladies at the senior living center wasn't having a very good day. Actually it was leftover from a bad day on Thursday. I volunteer there and offered to help her do some things. Scattered across her desk were various papers, telephone messages and a folder or two. She spun around and opened a huge cabinet behind her. It was filled with paperwork some as old as five or six years. It took about two hours to get everything boxed up and readied to put in storage. With each box her step got lighter and her smile a bit bigger.
I think the same is true with the Christian life. There are things we need to take care of in terms of reconciliation, confession or repentance. The sooner the better. When we submit to the Holy Spirit He guides, convicts and comforts us. When we are sensitive to His leading, we can walk in a greater light of His grace. We don't do it because our step gets lighter or our smile bigger but rather for His glory and our own good. Maybe it's time we all take an inventory of our own personal cabinets to see if there is anything old that needs to be handled in a biblical way.
I think the same is true with the Christian life. There are things we need to take care of in terms of reconciliation, confession or repentance. The sooner the better. When we submit to the Holy Spirit He guides, convicts and comforts us. When we are sensitive to His leading, we can walk in a greater light of His grace. We don't do it because our step gets lighter or our smile bigger but rather for His glory and our own good. Maybe it's time we all take an inventory of our own personal cabinets to see if there is anything old that needs to be handled in a biblical way.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
The New Normal
On Wednesday evenings I go with my step mom, Helen, to her church. We play Mexican Train for an hour or so and then have dinner with some of the other parishioners. Tonight she and I talked after we got back to the house. There have been so many changes in our lives some of which are difficult--very difficult. My Dad's dementia continues to worsen which has necessitated his being in a facility. An aunt is under the care of hospice 24 hours 7 days a week. My brother has been diagnosed with cancer and is starting chemotherapy. As we were talking the phrase "the new normal" came to mind. I've heard in a couple of circles so I presume it's becoming pretty well known. I don't know the origin of it but it describes what's happening in her and my life. I trust it is happening in your lives as well. Things just aren't as they used to be. Life requires a lot of change.
I then remembered a verse from one of my favorite hymns: "Be Still My Soul." I've blogged about it before.
I then remembered a verse from one of my favorite hymns: "Be Still My Soul." I've blogged about it before.
Be still, my soul; the Lord is on thy side;The line states: "In every change He faithful will remain." What comfort those seven words bring. He is faithful to walk with us in every change. Changes do come. People age, die, move and every event means a "new normal." Believers have such precious promises given to us. Psalm 46:1 states: "God is our refuge and our strength a very present help in times of trouble." Gratefully He hasn't left believers alone but will be faithful in our every "new normal" circumstances.
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In every change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul; thy best, thy heavenly, Friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
Monday, January 21, 2013
A Sobering Assessment
I'm reading "How Can I change? Victory in the Struggle Against Sin" by C.J. Mahaney and Robin Boisvert. The last chapter speaks of the judgment by Christ of the believer's works. Ir's a sobering somewhat terrifying subject. While the believer isn't subject to eternal damnation, she can face a number of significant losses of reward for failing to do all she could do here on earth for the Lord. In other words not everyone will hear the much desired "Well done my good and faithful servant" from the mouth of the Lord.
Randy Alcorn has described Western Christianity as: "We major in the momentary and minor in the momentous." Martin Luther said there were only two days on his calendar "today" and "that Day". Mahaney used the example of King Solomon who failed to end well. In fact Dr. Mahaney quoted Robert Clinton findings that "fewer than 25% of most well known leaders in Scripture finished life's course with their reputation and leadership intact." I found that a paralyzing statistic. Just when we thought as long as we made INTO heaven all will be well. Not so fast. Heaven will be and is a momentous place because of the presence of Jesus Christ. But we must remember the judgement of all Christians. We will meet with Christ alone and He will review every day of our lives. There will be, as Mahaney says, "a final examination. It will be administered by the fairest yet strictest Headmaster in the universe." Deep thoughts to ponder as we look to each day.
Jonathan Edwards resolved: "never to do anything which I would be afraid to do if it were the last hour of my life." David Powlison wrote: "In most graphic terms, on the day of judgment God will ask, 'What did you do?' He will not ask, "What happened to you." Matthew Henry said: "It ought to be the business of every day to prepare for the last day." These are compelling quotes. This book has gotten my attention. I pray the past two posts have gotten yours. If you haven't read the book, it's a challenging but hopeful read. And you may just come away with a hugely significant life change that needed to made. That's my hope for myself anyway.
Randy Alcorn has described Western Christianity as: "We major in the momentary and minor in the momentous." Martin Luther said there were only two days on his calendar "today" and "that Day". Mahaney used the example of King Solomon who failed to end well. In fact Dr. Mahaney quoted Robert Clinton findings that "fewer than 25% of most well known leaders in Scripture finished life's course with their reputation and leadership intact." I found that a paralyzing statistic. Just when we thought as long as we made INTO heaven all will be well. Not so fast. Heaven will be and is a momentous place because of the presence of Jesus Christ. But we must remember the judgement of all Christians. We will meet with Christ alone and He will review every day of our lives. There will be, as Mahaney says, "a final examination. It will be administered by the fairest yet strictest Headmaster in the universe." Deep thoughts to ponder as we look to each day.
Jonathan Edwards resolved: "never to do anything which I would be afraid to do if it were the last hour of my life." David Powlison wrote: "In most graphic terms, on the day of judgment God will ask, 'What did you do?' He will not ask, "What happened to you." Matthew Henry said: "It ought to be the business of every day to prepare for the last day." These are compelling quotes. This book has gotten my attention. I pray the past two posts have gotten yours. If you haven't read the book, it's a challenging but hopeful read. And you may just come away with a hugely significant life change that needed to made. That's my hope for myself anyway.
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