Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Saturday May 22, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of II Chronicles, chapters 4-6. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-22
Title: Bible Study: The Glory of The Lord
As Christians we have the great privilege of living under the grace of God. It is only because of God's great grace that we can even stand before Him, through our faith and acceptance of the Lord Jesus Christ, and say we are a saved child of the one and only living God. Now, everyone and every living thing is created by God, but only those whom have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior can say that they are a child of God. The amazing thing is that when one has wholeheartedly chosen to live their lives for Christ, the Glory of the Lord shines through so bright that it effects everyone around you. Those who do not know Christ will either become inspired to do so or run away, but do not take it personally, just rejoice knowing that God is with you and that He is working in that person as well, in one way or another all will see the Glory of the Lord.
King Solomon continued building the House of the Lord, it took about seven and a half years for it to be completed, but every detail was precise and everything that went into the Temple was pure and only of the best quality. “Thus Solomon made all these vessels in great abundance: for the weight of the brass could not be found out. And Solomon made all the vessels that were for the house of God, the golden altar also, and the tables whereon the shewbread was set; Moreover the candlesticks with their lamps, that they should burn after the manner before the oracle, of pure gold; And the flowers, and the lamps, and the tongs, made he of gold, and that perfect gold; And the snuffers, and the basons, and the spoons, and the censers, of pure gold: and the entry of the house, the inner doors thereof for the most holy place, and the doors of the house of the temple, were of gold.” - II Chronicles 4:18-22. The furniture and amount of items in the temple, compared with that of the tabernacle, showed that God's church would be enlarged, and His worshipers multiplied. It was important that everything that went into the Temple be pure and perfect, a foreseen quality that would be of our Lord Jesus Christ. Today, we are the House of God, His Temple, and it is just as important that everything that goes into our bodies, or Temple, be pure. We are not perfect, but we can be pure and if we learn God's Word and follow it we will remain pure. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” - II Timothy 3:16,17.
Now that the Temple was complete it was time to bring the Ark of God to it's final resting place. “Thus all the work that Solomon made for the house of the LORD was finished: and Solomon brought in all the things that David his father had dedicated; and the silver, and the gold, and all the instruments, put he among the treasures of the house of God. Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel, and all the heads of the tribes, the chief of the fathers of the children of Israel, unto Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of the city of David, which is Zion. Wherefore all the men of Israel assembled themselves unto the king in the feast which was in the seventh month. And all the elders of Israel came; and the Levites took up the ark. And they brought up the ark, and the tabernacle of the congregation, and all the holy vessels that were in the tabernacle, these did the priests and the Levites bring up.” - II Chronicles 5:1-4. Solomon gathered the priests and Levites as God commanded would be the only ones allowed to handle the Ark and put the Ark and all the holy vessels in place. The Ark was a token of the presence of God, when the people saw the Ark they knew that God was with them. God is always with His believers, but there is something about the sense of seeing His presence that increases a persons faith in Him. Any believer, even today, has the power to see His presence, look around you, God is everywhere, in the people we meet, in ourselves, in His beautiful creations, in the miracles we see every day, life in itself is a miracle and we should never take for granted that we are one of God's miracles. Praise God!
With praise, thanksgiving, music, and singing all the people were gathered together as one to see this wonderful event take place. There was nothing on the Ark except for the Word of God, which contained the original Commandments from Moses. These were to be a constant reminder of God's Covenant with Israel and to make them a holy nation. As soon as the Ark was in it's place God took possession of the Temple. “There was nothing in the ark save the two tables which Moses put therein at Horeb, when the LORD made a covenant with the children of Israel, when they came out of Egypt. And it came to pass, when the priests were come out of the holy place: (for all the priests that were present were sanctified, and did not then wait by course: Also the Levites which were the singers, all of them of Asaph, of Heman, of Jeduthun, with their sons and their brethren, being arrayed in white linen, having cymbals and psalteries and harps, stood at the east end of the altar, and with them an hundred and twenty priests sounding with trumpets:) It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD; and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of musick, and praised the LORD, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of the LORD; So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the glory of the LORD had filled the house of God.” - II Chronicles 5:10-14. God was pleased and the Glory of the Lord shined so bright that the priests could not stand to minister to the people. Today, all who accept Jesus Christ as their Savior become a part of the assembly that with one accord proclaim that they are a sinner saved by grace through their faith and belief in the death, burial, and resurrection of God's only begotten Son, Jesus Christ. The second we say we believe in Jesus and ask Him into our heart it pleases God and He comes into our soul. The more we sing praises and give thanks to Him, the more He shines through us.
The Glory of the Lord shines through every person who has accepted Christ and made the decision to follow Him. The more we learn His Word, obey His commandments, thank, and praise Him the more He shines in us as the Holy Spirit works in us and changes us from just knowing the name of Christ to being one with Christ. “Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” - II Corinthians 3:17,18. It is only by the Spirit of God that we can change and allow the Glory of the Lord to shine through us.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and weekend.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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Saturday, May 22, 2010
Friday, May 21, 2010
Bible Study: The Best Things in Life 05.21.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Friday May 21, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of II Chronicles, chapters 1-3. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-21
Title: Bible Study: The Best Things in Life
The book of II Chronicles is the fourteenth book of the Old Testament/Bible and contains thirty-six chapters. The author of the book is the prophet Ezra and the book was written to the Israelites that were in captivity in Babylon for seventy years. The purpose of the book was to record the religious history of Judah. What we are to learn from the book is that the blessings that God give to us comes through our humbling ourselves and seeking Him in all that we do.
It is natural to want the best things in life, to desire things that we could only dream of having, and to even work at getting them. However, for some, sooner or later, the best is not enough once they get it, they lose interest and are once again in search for something better. What the world does not realize, and even us Christians sometimes forget this, is that the best things in life can not be bought. No possession or position can replace the one person everyone needs, God. God is the best thing in life and as long as we remember that, He will give us new desires and we will receive them. People make the mistake of thinking that living for God means that all you can do is sit in a corner and read the Bible. While that is a good thing art times, God knows nothing would get accomplished if we just sat there. We are to go out and enjoy life and enjoying life is not about getting high and drunk and seeing how many notches you can add to your belt. It's about making a difference in yours and someone else's life and doing it morally. Sooner or later everyone gets tired of playing their part in trying to fit in with the world. There is always a way out and God is always right there waiting to give you the best things life has to offer.
Solomon was now king of Israel, he began his reign in submission to God and because of that he prospered quickly. “And Solomon the son of David was strengthened in his kingdom, and the LORD his God was with him, and magnified him exceedingly. Then Solomon spake unto all Israel, to the captains of thousands and of hundreds, and to the judges, and to every governor in all Israel, the chief of the fathers...In that night did God appear unto Solomon, and said unto him, Ask what I shall give thee. And Solomon said unto God, Thou hast shewed great mercy unto David my father, and hast made me to reign in his stead. Now, O LORD God, let thy promise unto David my father be established: for thou hast made me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude. Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, that is so great? And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honour, nor the life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king: Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like.” - II Chronicles 1:1,2,7-12. God spoke to Solomon in a dream, it was His intention to get Solomon to see that what was more important than riches and fame was to be obedient to the Word of God. When we live in submission to God we become more obedient to the Word of God as we learn it. The key is learning it, we can not know the best things that God has in store for us unless we learn what He has to say.
Solomon is credited with offering the largest sacrifices, building the most famous Temple, and becoming the most famous king, but he quickly lost sight of God the more He took his eyes off Him and on the riches of the world. Immediately following the offerings made at Gibeon, Solomon began purchasing chariots and horses, and silver and gold for his own needs. “And Solomon gathered chariots and horsemen: and he had a thousand and four hundred chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen, which he placed in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem. And the king made silver and gold at Jerusalem as plenteous as stones, and cedar trees made he as the sycomore trees that are in the vale for abundance. And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn: the king's merchants received the linen yarn at a price. And they fetched up, and brought forth out of Egypt a chariot for six hundred shekels of silver, and an horse for an hundred and fifty: and so brought they out horses for all the kings of the Hittites, and for the kings of Syria, by their means.” - II Chronicles 1:14-17. Doing this was a direct violation of the Word of God who commanded that a king not multiply himself possessions, wives, or riches (See I Kings 4). Solomon defiantly broke all three commandments, including taking several heathen women as wives. It may appear strange for one to possess such wealth and wisdom and not desire to please the Lord as David did, but possessions give a false sense of security and self-sufficiency which often robs many of what the best things in life truly are. Before Solomon died, he realized this, in fact, the book of Ecclesiastes was written by Solomon having realized that all he ever had was vanity, losing sight of the one person he truly needed and that was God.
The Scriptures teach us that the Word of God is the source of true wisdom for daily direction. As we read the Bible with a sincere desire to do His will, the Holy Spirit, the Living Word, the Spirit of Jesus Christ Himself, guides our thoughts and actions to know what the best things in life truly are. We can enjoy life to the fullest and even receive the desires of our heart, but if we are not in submission to the will of God, we will never see the potential of what God can truly bless us with. Jesus said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;” - John 14:12-16. The Holy Spirit is our guide and He lives in all who accept Jesus Christ as their Savior. He gives us the wisdom and knowledge we need to understand God's Word. When we let the Holy Spirit Guide us He will show us the true desires of our heart and what are truly the best things in life. Are you ready for the best things in life? Put your faith and trust in Jesus and He will show you what they are and how you can obtain them. It takes work to get the things we desire and as long as we live in submission to God and His Word we will receive them. Praise God for His faithfulness and love for all of us. I have had a taste of what the world has to offer, I desired those things and I got them, but it was not long before I was bored and in search for something more fulfilling, all the world got me was in one mess after the other and it was not until I went to God and dedicated my life to Jesus that I got out of them. God will forgive and receive anyone who calls on Him, even those who walked away from Him. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and your weekend.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
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Today is Friday May 21, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of II Chronicles, chapters 1-3. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-21
Title: Bible Study: The Best Things in Life
The book of II Chronicles is the fourteenth book of the Old Testament/Bible and contains thirty-six chapters. The author of the book is the prophet Ezra and the book was written to the Israelites that were in captivity in Babylon for seventy years. The purpose of the book was to record the religious history of Judah. What we are to learn from the book is that the blessings that God give to us comes through our humbling ourselves and seeking Him in all that we do.
It is natural to want the best things in life, to desire things that we could only dream of having, and to even work at getting them. However, for some, sooner or later, the best is not enough once they get it, they lose interest and are once again in search for something better. What the world does not realize, and even us Christians sometimes forget this, is that the best things in life can not be bought. No possession or position can replace the one person everyone needs, God. God is the best thing in life and as long as we remember that, He will give us new desires and we will receive them. People make the mistake of thinking that living for God means that all you can do is sit in a corner and read the Bible. While that is a good thing art times, God knows nothing would get accomplished if we just sat there. We are to go out and enjoy life and enjoying life is not about getting high and drunk and seeing how many notches you can add to your belt. It's about making a difference in yours and someone else's life and doing it morally. Sooner or later everyone gets tired of playing their part in trying to fit in with the world. There is always a way out and God is always right there waiting to give you the best things life has to offer.
Solomon was now king of Israel, he began his reign in submission to God and because of that he prospered quickly. “And Solomon the son of David was strengthened in his kingdom, and the LORD his God was with him, and magnified him exceedingly. Then Solomon spake unto all Israel, to the captains of thousands and of hundreds, and to the judges, and to every governor in all Israel, the chief of the fathers...In that night did God appear unto Solomon, and said unto him, Ask what I shall give thee. And Solomon said unto God, Thou hast shewed great mercy unto David my father, and hast made me to reign in his stead. Now, O LORD God, let thy promise unto David my father be established: for thou hast made me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude. Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may go out and come in before this people: for who can judge this thy people, that is so great? And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth, or honour, nor the life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king: Wisdom and knowledge is granted unto thee; and I will give thee riches, and wealth, and honour, such as none of the kings have had that have been before thee, neither shall there any after thee have the like.” - II Chronicles 1:1,2,7-12. God spoke to Solomon in a dream, it was His intention to get Solomon to see that what was more important than riches and fame was to be obedient to the Word of God. When we live in submission to God we become more obedient to the Word of God as we learn it. The key is learning it, we can not know the best things that God has in store for us unless we learn what He has to say.
Solomon is credited with offering the largest sacrifices, building the most famous Temple, and becoming the most famous king, but he quickly lost sight of God the more He took his eyes off Him and on the riches of the world. Immediately following the offerings made at Gibeon, Solomon began purchasing chariots and horses, and silver and gold for his own needs. “And Solomon gathered chariots and horsemen: and he had a thousand and four hundred chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen, which he placed in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem. And the king made silver and gold at Jerusalem as plenteous as stones, and cedar trees made he as the sycomore trees that are in the vale for abundance. And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn: the king's merchants received the linen yarn at a price. And they fetched up, and brought forth out of Egypt a chariot for six hundred shekels of silver, and an horse for an hundred and fifty: and so brought they out horses for all the kings of the Hittites, and for the kings of Syria, by their means.” - II Chronicles 1:14-17. Doing this was a direct violation of the Word of God who commanded that a king not multiply himself possessions, wives, or riches (See I Kings 4). Solomon defiantly broke all three commandments, including taking several heathen women as wives. It may appear strange for one to possess such wealth and wisdom and not desire to please the Lord as David did, but possessions give a false sense of security and self-sufficiency which often robs many of what the best things in life truly are. Before Solomon died, he realized this, in fact, the book of Ecclesiastes was written by Solomon having realized that all he ever had was vanity, losing sight of the one person he truly needed and that was God.
The Scriptures teach us that the Word of God is the source of true wisdom for daily direction. As we read the Bible with a sincere desire to do His will, the Holy Spirit, the Living Word, the Spirit of Jesus Christ Himself, guides our thoughts and actions to know what the best things in life truly are. We can enjoy life to the fullest and even receive the desires of our heart, but if we are not in submission to the will of God, we will never see the potential of what God can truly bless us with. Jesus said, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;” - John 14:12-16. The Holy Spirit is our guide and He lives in all who accept Jesus Christ as their Savior. He gives us the wisdom and knowledge we need to understand God's Word. When we let the Holy Spirit Guide us He will show us the true desires of our heart and what are truly the best things in life. Are you ready for the best things in life? Put your faith and trust in Jesus and He will show you what they are and how you can obtain them. It takes work to get the things we desire and as long as we live in submission to God and His Word we will receive them. Praise God for His faithfulness and love for all of us. I have had a taste of what the world has to offer, I desired those things and I got them, but it was not long before I was bored and in search for something more fulfilling, all the world got me was in one mess after the other and it was not until I went to God and dedicated my life to Jesus that I got out of them. God will forgive and receive anyone who calls on Him, even those who walked away from Him. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and your weekend.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
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Thursday, May 20, 2010
Bible Study: Be Strong & Do It 05.20.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Thursday May 20, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 27-29. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-20
Title: Bible Study: Be Strong And Do It
Much of the Book of I Chronicles focuses on doing the work of the Lord, God creates us for a purpose and calls us to do a job for Him and if it takes nearly a lifetime on earth to do it, He will keep on us until we realize what He wants us to do and do it. We should all be honored that God has called upon us to do a special task for Him, but many of us, and this can happen to even the strongest Christian, get caught up in circumstances and or every day stresses in life that can deafen us from hearing His call. It is times like these when we need to take a deep breath and realize that God is with us and wants to help us, He does not want us to try to handle things on our own. He is not punishing you, He is strengthening you and preparing you to do the task He called you to do.
King David was about to hand the reins over to Solomon, before he did he calls all of Israel's leaders and Solomon and gives full instructions from God on how to run the nation when he's gone. “And David assembled all the princes of Israel, the princes of the tribes, and the captains of the companies that ministered to the king by course, and the captains over the thousands, and captains over the hundreds, and the stewards over all the substance and possession of the king, and of his sons, with the officers, and with the mighty men, and with all the valiant men, unto Jerusalem.... Now therefore in the sight of all Israel the congregation of the LORD, and in the audience of our God, keep and seek for all the commandments of the LORD your God: that ye may possess this good land, and leave it for an inheritance for your children after you for ever. And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever. Take heed now; for the LORD hath chosen thee to build an house for the sanctuary: be strong, and do it.” - I Chronicles 28:1,8-10. David told them how God had chosen Solomon to build His Temple and that their greatest concern should be to be obedient to all of God's commands. David also stressed to Solomon how important it was to serve God with a perfect heart. It is not easy doing the task that God calls you to do, you will face all sorts of obstacles as Satan tries to stop you, but you can not let that stop you. You have to be strong and just do it, running only prolongs it, but God will get you back in His will, no matter how long it takes. Moses ran from God and it took forty years to get him back in the will of God, Jonah ran from God and got swallowed up by a whale and stayed there for three days until he got back in the will of God.
God knows our hearts and intentions, if we are serving Him wholeheartedly He will always be with us, helping us, and giving us the power and strength to accomplish the task as well as overcome the obstacles we face in our walk of life. A person can be obedient and still miss out on the blessing of God by having a bad attitude or complaining about what God has asked them to do. Also, use God to achieve your own selfish goals and you will suffer, I have seen so many people use tragic situations to their advantage to make money off of people and say that it was a gift from God only to fall flat on their faces. After David's instructions, he offered one of the most inspiring prayers recorded in the Scripture, a prayer of thanksgiving, praise, and adoration, and God's great love. “Thine, O LORD is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.... I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness. As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have willingly offered all these things: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee.” - I Chronicles 29:11-14,17. David's heartfelt prayer is a reminder to all of us that prayer should be a time of praising and worshiping God with thanksgiving for who He is, as well as for what He has given us. As we recognize our total dependence upon God for everything, we will praise Him for His provision. When we neglect to praise the Lord daily, our worship often becomes a mere ritual. Every day, under every circumstance, in every thing we need to give thanks to the Lord. It is through praise and worship, especially through our roughest days that we do have the strength to do the task that God calls us to do.
We all have things in life that we do not want to or feel like doing, but they are things that need to be done, so we might as well as do them joyfully so we can get them done faster. Jesus said, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” John 15:10,11. When we do the work of the Lord we will find joy, in fact, you actually feel as though you have accomplished something great. And you did, you became strong and you did it. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night, God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
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Today is Thursday May 20, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 27-29. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-20
Title: Bible Study: Be Strong And Do It
Much of the Book of I Chronicles focuses on doing the work of the Lord, God creates us for a purpose and calls us to do a job for Him and if it takes nearly a lifetime on earth to do it, He will keep on us until we realize what He wants us to do and do it. We should all be honored that God has called upon us to do a special task for Him, but many of us, and this can happen to even the strongest Christian, get caught up in circumstances and or every day stresses in life that can deafen us from hearing His call. It is times like these when we need to take a deep breath and realize that God is with us and wants to help us, He does not want us to try to handle things on our own. He is not punishing you, He is strengthening you and preparing you to do the task He called you to do.
King David was about to hand the reins over to Solomon, before he did he calls all of Israel's leaders and Solomon and gives full instructions from God on how to run the nation when he's gone. “And David assembled all the princes of Israel, the princes of the tribes, and the captains of the companies that ministered to the king by course, and the captains over the thousands, and captains over the hundreds, and the stewards over all the substance and possession of the king, and of his sons, with the officers, and with the mighty men, and with all the valiant men, unto Jerusalem.... Now therefore in the sight of all Israel the congregation of the LORD, and in the audience of our God, keep and seek for all the commandments of the LORD your God: that ye may possess this good land, and leave it for an inheritance for your children after you for ever. And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever. Take heed now; for the LORD hath chosen thee to build an house for the sanctuary: be strong, and do it.” - I Chronicles 28:1,8-10. David told them how God had chosen Solomon to build His Temple and that their greatest concern should be to be obedient to all of God's commands. David also stressed to Solomon how important it was to serve God with a perfect heart. It is not easy doing the task that God calls you to do, you will face all sorts of obstacles as Satan tries to stop you, but you can not let that stop you. You have to be strong and just do it, running only prolongs it, but God will get you back in His will, no matter how long it takes. Moses ran from God and it took forty years to get him back in the will of God, Jonah ran from God and got swallowed up by a whale and stayed there for three days until he got back in the will of God.
God knows our hearts and intentions, if we are serving Him wholeheartedly He will always be with us, helping us, and giving us the power and strength to accomplish the task as well as overcome the obstacles we face in our walk of life. A person can be obedient and still miss out on the blessing of God by having a bad attitude or complaining about what God has asked them to do. Also, use God to achieve your own selfish goals and you will suffer, I have seen so many people use tragic situations to their advantage to make money off of people and say that it was a gift from God only to fall flat on their faces. After David's instructions, he offered one of the most inspiring prayers recorded in the Scripture, a prayer of thanksgiving, praise, and adoration, and God's great love. “Thine, O LORD is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.... I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness. As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have willingly offered all these things: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee.” - I Chronicles 29:11-14,17. David's heartfelt prayer is a reminder to all of us that prayer should be a time of praising and worshiping God with thanksgiving for who He is, as well as for what He has given us. As we recognize our total dependence upon God for everything, we will praise Him for His provision. When we neglect to praise the Lord daily, our worship often becomes a mere ritual. Every day, under every circumstance, in every thing we need to give thanks to the Lord. It is through praise and worship, especially through our roughest days that we do have the strength to do the task that God calls us to do.
We all have things in life that we do not want to or feel like doing, but they are things that need to be done, so we might as well as do them joyfully so we can get them done faster. Jesus said, “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” John 15:10,11. When we do the work of the Lord we will find joy, in fact, you actually feel as though you have accomplished something great. And you did, you became strong and you did it. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night, God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Bible Study: The Body of Christ 05.19.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Wednesday May 19, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 24-26. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-19
Title: Bible Study: The Body of Christ
True Christians, meaning those whom have wholeheartedly believed in the death, burial, and resurrection of God's only begotten Son (His only offspring) Jesus Christ, are a part of the Body of Christ. The Body of Christ is the church and each member is important for the body to be healthy and function properly, just like a human body needs every member to function properly. Oh, we can still survive if we lost an arm, our sight, or even a kidney, but we are not as capable of doing everything that we could do if we had every member of our body.
Every member of the Body of Christ has a purpose and is important to God, He takes every person and uses them in some way to serve Him. No job is too small that God has called you to do.
Now, everyone can be a child of God and serve Him in some way, but not everyone is chosen by God to serve Him in the church. The Levites were chosen by God strictly for that one purpose, serving Him in the church, also known as Tabernacle, Temple, or House of the Lord. “These were the orderings of them in their service to come into the house of the LORD, according to their manner, under Aaron their father, as the LORD God of Israel had commanded him.” - I Chronicles 24:19. From choosing the high priests, to the gatekeepers, to the musicians, every person was used to serve God in some way. We too being members of the Body of Christ are called to serve God in some way, whether it be in the church, in the work place, or even in the home, we have a job to do for God.
Before David died he instructed the Levites on the responsibilities they would have in constructing the Temple as well as their positions once it was built. “Moreover David and the captains of the host separated to the service of the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who should prophesy with harps, with psalteries, and with cymbals: and the number of the workmen according to their service was: Of the sons of Asaph; Zaccur, and Joseph, and Nethaniah, and Asarelah, the sons of Asaph under the hands of Asaph, which prophesied according to the order of the king. Of Jeduthun: the sons of Jeduthun; Gedaliah, and Zeri, and Jeshaiah, Hashabiah, and Mattithiah, six, under the hands of their father Jeduthun, who prophesied with a harp, to give thanks and to praise the LORD. Of Heman: the sons of Heman: Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, and Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, and Romamtiezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, and Mahazioth: All these were the sons of Heman the king's seer in the words of God, to lift up the horn. And God gave to Heman fourteen sons and three daughters. All these were under the hands of their father for song in the house of the LORD, with cymbals, psalteries, and harps, for the service of the house of God, according to the king's order to Asaph, Jeduthun, and Heman. So the number of them, with their brethren that were instructed in the songs of the LORD, even all that were cunning, was two hundred fourscore and eight.” - I Chronicles 25:1-7. Men and women alike were appointed positions in the house of the Lord. Every position was equally important to maintain worship in the Temple as required by God. There are no unimportant tasks for the Body of Christ, from vacuuming the carpet to being a Man of God, every task is needed for the Church to function properly.
The responsibilities of all the varied workers teach us that every opportunity to serve God is a sacred responsibility. No matter how small the position seems, it is an important one and one that should be done with honor and joy knowing that God will bless you exceedingly for it. This is illustrated by Obededom who was just an ordinary gatekeeper for the Temple. He held the Ark of God for three months while David prepared a way to have it moved to Jerusalem, but he received much more than the task of keeping the Ark. He also received God's Word and His very presence as He dwelt above the mercy seat of the Ark. During that time Obededom and his family were very blessed. "Moreover the sons of Obededom were, Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth. Ammiel the sixth, Issachar the seventh, Peulthai the eighth: for God blessed him....All these of the sons of Obededom: they and their sons and their brethren, able men for strength for the service, were threescore and two of Obededom." -I Chronicles 26:4,5,8. The gatekeepers were called able men for strength for the service, twenty-four gatekeepers guarded the entrances day and night, all of whom were valiant men of integrity and courage who would not neglect their duties. They were trusted to guard the entrance to keep unqualified persons from entering the Temple and defiling it. Just as God blessed Obededom and his family He will bless all who allow Christ and His Word to rule their lives.
The most important job in the world for all Christians is to teach all about the true Gospel of Christ. Jesus Said to all who accept Him as their Savior, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen." -Matthew 28:18-20. We are to, but sow the seed, everything else is up to God and the person. We may see them accept Christ in person or will never know that they did until we meet them in heaven, but as long as we do out part in fulfilling the Great Commission we will be blessed and honored by God.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
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You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
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Today is Wednesday May 19, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 24-26. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-19
Title: Bible Study: The Body of Christ
True Christians, meaning those whom have wholeheartedly believed in the death, burial, and resurrection of God's only begotten Son (His only offspring) Jesus Christ, are a part of the Body of Christ. The Body of Christ is the church and each member is important for the body to be healthy and function properly, just like a human body needs every member to function properly. Oh, we can still survive if we lost an arm, our sight, or even a kidney, but we are not as capable of doing everything that we could do if we had every member of our body.
Every member of the Body of Christ has a purpose and is important to God, He takes every person and uses them in some way to serve Him. No job is too small that God has called you to do.
Now, everyone can be a child of God and serve Him in some way, but not everyone is chosen by God to serve Him in the church. The Levites were chosen by God strictly for that one purpose, serving Him in the church, also known as Tabernacle, Temple, or House of the Lord. “These were the orderings of them in their service to come into the house of the LORD, according to their manner, under Aaron their father, as the LORD God of Israel had commanded him.” - I Chronicles 24:19. From choosing the high priests, to the gatekeepers, to the musicians, every person was used to serve God in some way. We too being members of the Body of Christ are called to serve God in some way, whether it be in the church, in the work place, or even in the home, we have a job to do for God.
Before David died he instructed the Levites on the responsibilities they would have in constructing the Temple as well as their positions once it was built. “Moreover David and the captains of the host separated to the service of the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who should prophesy with harps, with psalteries, and with cymbals: and the number of the workmen according to their service was: Of the sons of Asaph; Zaccur, and Joseph, and Nethaniah, and Asarelah, the sons of Asaph under the hands of Asaph, which prophesied according to the order of the king. Of Jeduthun: the sons of Jeduthun; Gedaliah, and Zeri, and Jeshaiah, Hashabiah, and Mattithiah, six, under the hands of their father Jeduthun, who prophesied with a harp, to give thanks and to praise the LORD. Of Heman: the sons of Heman: Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, and Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, and Romamtiezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, and Mahazioth: All these were the sons of Heman the king's seer in the words of God, to lift up the horn. And God gave to Heman fourteen sons and three daughters. All these were under the hands of their father for song in the house of the LORD, with cymbals, psalteries, and harps, for the service of the house of God, according to the king's order to Asaph, Jeduthun, and Heman. So the number of them, with their brethren that were instructed in the songs of the LORD, even all that were cunning, was two hundred fourscore and eight.” - I Chronicles 25:1-7. Men and women alike were appointed positions in the house of the Lord. Every position was equally important to maintain worship in the Temple as required by God. There are no unimportant tasks for the Body of Christ, from vacuuming the carpet to being a Man of God, every task is needed for the Church to function properly.
The responsibilities of all the varied workers teach us that every opportunity to serve God is a sacred responsibility. No matter how small the position seems, it is an important one and one that should be done with honor and joy knowing that God will bless you exceedingly for it. This is illustrated by Obededom who was just an ordinary gatekeeper for the Temple. He held the Ark of God for three months while David prepared a way to have it moved to Jerusalem, but he received much more than the task of keeping the Ark. He also received God's Word and His very presence as He dwelt above the mercy seat of the Ark. During that time Obededom and his family were very blessed. "Moreover the sons of Obededom were, Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth. Ammiel the sixth, Issachar the seventh, Peulthai the eighth: for God blessed him....All these of the sons of Obededom: they and their sons and their brethren, able men for strength for the service, were threescore and two of Obededom." -I Chronicles 26:4,5,8. The gatekeepers were called able men for strength for the service, twenty-four gatekeepers guarded the entrances day and night, all of whom were valiant men of integrity and courage who would not neglect their duties. They were trusted to guard the entrance to keep unqualified persons from entering the Temple and defiling it. Just as God blessed Obededom and his family He will bless all who allow Christ and His Word to rule their lives.
The most important job in the world for all Christians is to teach all about the true Gospel of Christ. Jesus Said to all who accept Him as their Savior, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen." -Matthew 28:18-20. We are to, but sow the seed, everything else is up to God and the person. We may see them accept Christ in person or will never know that they did until we meet them in heaven, but as long as we do out part in fulfilling the Great Commission we will be blessed and honored by God.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
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Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Bible Study: From Suffering to Forgiveness 05.18.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Tuesday May 18, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 21-23. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-18
Title: Bible Study: From Suffering to Forgiveness
As Christians we can rejoice in the fact that our God is faithful and just to forgive us of all our sins and show us the way out of them should we fall from time to time. Because we have this flesh we are going to be constantly tempted and tricked into sin by Satan. Even little, simple sins done ignorantly can have serious consequences. Sin not only wrecks our relationship with God, it also wrecks our relationship with family and friends. When we sin, everyone around us suffers. The hard part is that sometimes we know we have sinned, but many times we really have no idea we have sinned and it is not until we see people suffering that we realize what we have done. The amazing thing is that God is still merciful and forgiving regardless of what we get ourselves into and will always give us an end to the suffering and a way out of every sin we commit as long as we are willing to accept responsibility for what we have done and ask Him for help.
David was one of the most godliest men we have ever known about, but he was just like the rest of us, he had this flesh that Satan could get a hold of sometimes. The stronger our faith in God, the more he will attack us and all it takes is one moment of weakness or feeding the ego and we fall right into sin, such as we learn about David. “And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel. And David said to Joab and to the rulers of the people, Go, number Israel from Beersheba even to Dan; and bring the number of them to me, that I may know it. And Joab answered, The LORD make his people an hundred times so many more as they be: but, my lord the king, are they not all my lord's servants? why then doth my lord require this thing? why will he be a cause of trespass to Israel? Nevertheless the king's word prevailed against Joab. Wherefore Joab departed, and went throughout all Israel, and came to Jerusalem....And God was displeased with this thing; therefore he smote Israel. And David said unto God, I have sinned greatly, because I have done this thing: but now, I beseech thee, do away the iniquity of thy servant; for I have done very foolishly. And the LORD spake unto Gad, David's seer, saying, Go and tell David, saying, Thus saith the LORD, I offer thee three things: choose thee one of them, that I may do it unto thee. So Gad came to David, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Choose thee Either three years' famine; or three months to be destroyed before thy foes, while that the sword of thine enemies overtaketh thee; or else three days the sword of the LORD, even the pestilence, in the land, and the angel of the LORD destroying throughout all the coasts of Israel. Now therefore advise thyself what word I shall bring again to him that sent me.” - I Chronicles 21:1-4,7-12. David knew what he did was wrong, but the damage was done, he had to choose which form of punishment that Israel would have to endure for his sin. Satan, the adversary, was permitted to influence David to authorize the census. We do not know why David felt he needed to number the people, but this one little sin caused suffering for all the people. Few are aware that Satan is so near or so powerful in prompting sin that appears on the surface to be innocent. Be assured that wherever there is a ministry being done for Christ, Satan's strategy of discrediting the believer and God Himself must be recognized. It is of utmost importance that we read the Lord's directions in the Bible. It alone is our weapon, and armor against our most dreadful adversary.
Although God can become angry and make us suffer and allows Satan to cause evil upon us, He is still a loving God and wants the best for us. He allows these things because He knows that we are much stronger than we think we are or that we are liars and really are not sincere in seeking forgiveness. When we are sincere, God can be persuaded to lessen the suffering. “So the LORD sent pestilence upon Israel: and there fell of Israel seventy thousand men. And God sent an angel unto Jerusalem to destroy it: and as he was destroying, the LORD beheld, and he repented him of the evil, and said to the angel that destroyed, It is enough, stay now thine hand. And the angel of the LORD stood by the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite. And David lifted up his eyes, and saw the angel of the LORD stand between the earth and the heaven, having a drawn sword in his hand stretched out over Jerusalem. Then David and the elders of Israel, who were clothed in sackcloth, fell upon their faces. And David said unto God, Is it not I that commanded the people to be numbered? even I it is that have sinned and done evil indeed; but as for these sheep, what have they done? let thine hand, I pray thee, O LORD my God, be on me, and on my father's house; but not on thy people, that they should be plagued. Then the angel of the LORD commanded Gad to say to David, that David should go up, and set up an altar unto the LORD in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite.....And David built there an altar unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings, and called upon the LORD; and he answered him from heaven by fire upon the altar of burnt offering. And the LORD commanded the angel; and he put up his sword again into the sheath thereof.” - I Chronicles 21:14-18,26,27. David's sin caused pestilence, a deadly plague to hit the people and 70,000 lives were lost. Then God sent the angel of the Lord to Jerusalem to destroy it, but David begged and pleaded with God not to let the people suffer for what he had done. Because of his sincerity and obedience God changed His mind and Jerusalem was saved.
It is important that we seek forgiveness, but equally important that we forgive others as well, even those who cause us to suffer for sins they committed. Jesus Said, “And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.” - Mark 11:25,26. We must forgive those whom have wronged us if we want God's forgiveness. Because God is merciful to everyone that means all deserve forgiveness. I know it can be hard to forgive people, especially when they have caused harm to a child, but we must let it go and let God handle it. Holding on to these things only causes us more pain. God knows what we have gone through and He will take care of it. Jesus Said, “It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come! It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.” - Luke 17:1-4. My father cheated on my mother and had another family on the other side of town. My mother was forced to raise three kids on her own in the ghetto. We suffered and went through one struggle after another for his sin, but God pulled us through it. It was important that I forgive my father for what he had put is through. Oh, I have dealt with some bitterness at times, but God has blessed me through my sorrows, as He will anyone else, and to see my father now I know that God has taken care of the situation. God takes care of anyone who comes to Him. Satan may provoke us to sin and he may even cause others to sin against us, but one thing he can never do and that is take away our Salvation. Any person who has accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior is saved from their sins and nothing can take that away. Praise God! We may suffer from time to time, but we have a great and mighty God on our side, ready and willing to let by gones be gones and is always faithful and just to forgive us of all of our sins. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
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Today is Tuesday May 18, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 21-23. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-18
Title: Bible Study: From Suffering to Forgiveness
As Christians we can rejoice in the fact that our God is faithful and just to forgive us of all our sins and show us the way out of them should we fall from time to time. Because we have this flesh we are going to be constantly tempted and tricked into sin by Satan. Even little, simple sins done ignorantly can have serious consequences. Sin not only wrecks our relationship with God, it also wrecks our relationship with family and friends. When we sin, everyone around us suffers. The hard part is that sometimes we know we have sinned, but many times we really have no idea we have sinned and it is not until we see people suffering that we realize what we have done. The amazing thing is that God is still merciful and forgiving regardless of what we get ourselves into and will always give us an end to the suffering and a way out of every sin we commit as long as we are willing to accept responsibility for what we have done and ask Him for help.
David was one of the most godliest men we have ever known about, but he was just like the rest of us, he had this flesh that Satan could get a hold of sometimes. The stronger our faith in God, the more he will attack us and all it takes is one moment of weakness or feeding the ego and we fall right into sin, such as we learn about David. “And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel. And David said to Joab and to the rulers of the people, Go, number Israel from Beersheba even to Dan; and bring the number of them to me, that I may know it. And Joab answered, The LORD make his people an hundred times so many more as they be: but, my lord the king, are they not all my lord's servants? why then doth my lord require this thing? why will he be a cause of trespass to Israel? Nevertheless the king's word prevailed against Joab. Wherefore Joab departed, and went throughout all Israel, and came to Jerusalem....And God was displeased with this thing; therefore he smote Israel. And David said unto God, I have sinned greatly, because I have done this thing: but now, I beseech thee, do away the iniquity of thy servant; for I have done very foolishly. And the LORD spake unto Gad, David's seer, saying, Go and tell David, saying, Thus saith the LORD, I offer thee three things: choose thee one of them, that I may do it unto thee. So Gad came to David, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Choose thee Either three years' famine; or three months to be destroyed before thy foes, while that the sword of thine enemies overtaketh thee; or else three days the sword of the LORD, even the pestilence, in the land, and the angel of the LORD destroying throughout all the coasts of Israel. Now therefore advise thyself what word I shall bring again to him that sent me.” - I Chronicles 21:1-4,7-12. David knew what he did was wrong, but the damage was done, he had to choose which form of punishment that Israel would have to endure for his sin. Satan, the adversary, was permitted to influence David to authorize the census. We do not know why David felt he needed to number the people, but this one little sin caused suffering for all the people. Few are aware that Satan is so near or so powerful in prompting sin that appears on the surface to be innocent. Be assured that wherever there is a ministry being done for Christ, Satan's strategy of discrediting the believer and God Himself must be recognized. It is of utmost importance that we read the Lord's directions in the Bible. It alone is our weapon, and armor against our most dreadful adversary.
Although God can become angry and make us suffer and allows Satan to cause evil upon us, He is still a loving God and wants the best for us. He allows these things because He knows that we are much stronger than we think we are or that we are liars and really are not sincere in seeking forgiveness. When we are sincere, God can be persuaded to lessen the suffering. “So the LORD sent pestilence upon Israel: and there fell of Israel seventy thousand men. And God sent an angel unto Jerusalem to destroy it: and as he was destroying, the LORD beheld, and he repented him of the evil, and said to the angel that destroyed, It is enough, stay now thine hand. And the angel of the LORD stood by the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite. And David lifted up his eyes, and saw the angel of the LORD stand between the earth and the heaven, having a drawn sword in his hand stretched out over Jerusalem. Then David and the elders of Israel, who were clothed in sackcloth, fell upon their faces. And David said unto God, Is it not I that commanded the people to be numbered? even I it is that have sinned and done evil indeed; but as for these sheep, what have they done? let thine hand, I pray thee, O LORD my God, be on me, and on my father's house; but not on thy people, that they should be plagued. Then the angel of the LORD commanded Gad to say to David, that David should go up, and set up an altar unto the LORD in the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite.....And David built there an altar unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings, and called upon the LORD; and he answered him from heaven by fire upon the altar of burnt offering. And the LORD commanded the angel; and he put up his sword again into the sheath thereof.” - I Chronicles 21:14-18,26,27. David's sin caused pestilence, a deadly plague to hit the people and 70,000 lives were lost. Then God sent the angel of the Lord to Jerusalem to destroy it, but David begged and pleaded with God not to let the people suffer for what he had done. Because of his sincerity and obedience God changed His mind and Jerusalem was saved.
It is important that we seek forgiveness, but equally important that we forgive others as well, even those who cause us to suffer for sins they committed. Jesus Said, “And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.” - Mark 11:25,26. We must forgive those whom have wronged us if we want God's forgiveness. Because God is merciful to everyone that means all deserve forgiveness. I know it can be hard to forgive people, especially when they have caused harm to a child, but we must let it go and let God handle it. Holding on to these things only causes us more pain. God knows what we have gone through and He will take care of it. Jesus Said, “It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come! It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.” - Luke 17:1-4. My father cheated on my mother and had another family on the other side of town. My mother was forced to raise three kids on her own in the ghetto. We suffered and went through one struggle after another for his sin, but God pulled us through it. It was important that I forgive my father for what he had put is through. Oh, I have dealt with some bitterness at times, but God has blessed me through my sorrows, as He will anyone else, and to see my father now I know that God has taken care of the situation. God takes care of anyone who comes to Him. Satan may provoke us to sin and he may even cause others to sin against us, but one thing he can never do and that is take away our Salvation. Any person who has accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior is saved from their sins and nothing can take that away. Praise God! We may suffer from time to time, but we have a great and mighty God on our side, ready and willing to let by gones be gones and is always faithful and just to forgive us of all of our sins. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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Monday, May 17, 2010
Bible Study: Good in God's Sight 05.17.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Monday May 17, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 17-20. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-17
Title: Bible Study: Good in God's Sight
Often we get so caught up in day to day life that we can forget that God is always watching us. Did you ever wonder why bars, night clubs, and casinos are so dark? They are full of sin. When people knowingly sin they live in darkness, they do not want people to see what they are doing, so they hide themselves and join others living in sin so they do not feel guilty. I ran into a man one day while out soul winning, he flat our told us, I like partying and until I get done I will not follow Jesus. He knew that he was living in sin and thought that by ignoring God he was free to do what he wanted and not feel guilty about it. The sad thing is, one never knows when their last day on earth will be, waiting one day to accept Jesus can literally send them to hell. I would hate to be the person who said, I waited until I was ready and now I am in hell, when all he had to do was say, Jesus come into my heart. God is not a respecter of persons, He does not look to see how much sin you were in or what kind of sin it was, He accepts a person just as he is. What we do to change our lives after we accept Jesus is the difference between just getting in the door to heaven and being a testimony for God. God needs a few good men and women who are willing to show the world that I am a saved child of the living God by simply doing good in His sight. He sees everything that we do and if you are saved you should know that the Holy Spirit lives inside of you, therefore whatever you do, He does. We would all be a little more careful of the things we do from day to day if we would just remind ourselves of that fact.
David was one of the most prosperous and blessed kings of all time, his success was due to the fact that he sought God in every step of his life. His love for the Word of God and his prayer life were the key to his greatness. “And David the king came and sat before the LORD, and said, Who am I, O LORD God, and what is mine house, that thou hast brought me hitherto? And yet this was a small thing in thine eyes, O God; for thou hast also spoken of thy servant's house for a great while to come, and hast regarded me according to the estate of a man of high degree, O LORD God. What can David speak more to thee for the honour of thy servant? for thou knowest thy servant. O LORD, for thy servant's sake, and according to thine own heart, hast thou done all this greatness, in making known all these great things. O LORD, there is none like thee, neither is there any God beside thee, according to all that we have heard with our ears.” - I Chronicles 17:16-20. Although he is the king of Israel, he opens his prayer with a deep sense of humility and dependency, acknowledging that he was powerless without God. God knows our heart and He will bless us according to how much of our heart is on Him. David was the testimony for God that proved to his enemies that God was real and the reason he was able to defeat them time and time again. Often in the books of Kings and Chronicles you will see the phrase, he did that which was right or evil in the sight of God. Even if they were evil God was still with them and helped them if they went to Him. Why does God help those who do evil in His sight? Because He loves His children and wants them to know He is still around and sees everything, but still loves them. Every person who has accepted Jesus as their Savior is a child of God, even if they never change their ways. Of course, He does not approve of what is being done, but He waits patiently for His child to come to his senses and stop doing evil in His sight, even if that means His child falls time and time again.
Knowing all of the Word of God is the foundation to anyone's true success, knowing the Word of God gets us good in God's sight because we learn all of it, not just bits and pieces of what others are telling us. Knowing the Word of God teaches us about everything that is good or evil in His sight so we can be prosperous in all that we do. Have you been asking God for something and not receiving it even though you are your life for God? Take a deep look at something that may have or is going on in your life. Repentance is the key to getting right with God and receiving His blessings. Of course David sinned, we learn of his immorality with Bathsheba in the book of II Samuel, but he knew how to get right with God by repenting and getting things right with Him. It takes time to learn all of God's Word and to eliminate all of the evils in our lives, but as long as we work at it and show God that we are genuine in our wanting to change our ways He will bless us. Let us join in with the Apostle Paul and never lose sight of the desire to be filled with the knowledge of His will. “For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:” - Colossians 1:9-14. We are children of God no longer walking in darkness, but in the light provided by our Lord Jesus Christ. We can make mistakes and lose sight of God, but God is always with us. It is time to get right with God, reconcile any differences we might have with Him and get back to doing good in His sight. He loves you and forgives you, if you have accepted Christ as your Savior, He has already forgiven you and forgotten everything that you ever did. It is now time for you to forgive you and forget it and start letting God be the center of your life. It takes time, but He knows it and does not expect you to change completely over night, but your willingness alone is all He needs to say, “This is My child and one after My own heart.”
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and have a good week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
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You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
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Today is Monday May 17, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 17-20. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-17
Title: Bible Study: Good in God's Sight
Often we get so caught up in day to day life that we can forget that God is always watching us. Did you ever wonder why bars, night clubs, and casinos are so dark? They are full of sin. When people knowingly sin they live in darkness, they do not want people to see what they are doing, so they hide themselves and join others living in sin so they do not feel guilty. I ran into a man one day while out soul winning, he flat our told us, I like partying and until I get done I will not follow Jesus. He knew that he was living in sin and thought that by ignoring God he was free to do what he wanted and not feel guilty about it. The sad thing is, one never knows when their last day on earth will be, waiting one day to accept Jesus can literally send them to hell. I would hate to be the person who said, I waited until I was ready and now I am in hell, when all he had to do was say, Jesus come into my heart. God is not a respecter of persons, He does not look to see how much sin you were in or what kind of sin it was, He accepts a person just as he is. What we do to change our lives after we accept Jesus is the difference between just getting in the door to heaven and being a testimony for God. God needs a few good men and women who are willing to show the world that I am a saved child of the living God by simply doing good in His sight. He sees everything that we do and if you are saved you should know that the Holy Spirit lives inside of you, therefore whatever you do, He does. We would all be a little more careful of the things we do from day to day if we would just remind ourselves of that fact.
David was one of the most prosperous and blessed kings of all time, his success was due to the fact that he sought God in every step of his life. His love for the Word of God and his prayer life were the key to his greatness. “And David the king came and sat before the LORD, and said, Who am I, O LORD God, and what is mine house, that thou hast brought me hitherto? And yet this was a small thing in thine eyes, O God; for thou hast also spoken of thy servant's house for a great while to come, and hast regarded me according to the estate of a man of high degree, O LORD God. What can David speak more to thee for the honour of thy servant? for thou knowest thy servant. O LORD, for thy servant's sake, and according to thine own heart, hast thou done all this greatness, in making known all these great things. O LORD, there is none like thee, neither is there any God beside thee, according to all that we have heard with our ears.” - I Chronicles 17:16-20. Although he is the king of Israel, he opens his prayer with a deep sense of humility and dependency, acknowledging that he was powerless without God. God knows our heart and He will bless us according to how much of our heart is on Him. David was the testimony for God that proved to his enemies that God was real and the reason he was able to defeat them time and time again. Often in the books of Kings and Chronicles you will see the phrase, he did that which was right or evil in the sight of God. Even if they were evil God was still with them and helped them if they went to Him. Why does God help those who do evil in His sight? Because He loves His children and wants them to know He is still around and sees everything, but still loves them. Every person who has accepted Jesus as their Savior is a child of God, even if they never change their ways. Of course, He does not approve of what is being done, but He waits patiently for His child to come to his senses and stop doing evil in His sight, even if that means His child falls time and time again.
Knowing all of the Word of God is the foundation to anyone's true success, knowing the Word of God gets us good in God's sight because we learn all of it, not just bits and pieces of what others are telling us. Knowing the Word of God teaches us about everything that is good or evil in His sight so we can be prosperous in all that we do. Have you been asking God for something and not receiving it even though you are your life for God? Take a deep look at something that may have or is going on in your life. Repentance is the key to getting right with God and receiving His blessings. Of course David sinned, we learn of his immorality with Bathsheba in the book of II Samuel, but he knew how to get right with God by repenting and getting things right with Him. It takes time to learn all of God's Word and to eliminate all of the evils in our lives, but as long as we work at it and show God that we are genuine in our wanting to change our ways He will bless us. Let us join in with the Apostle Paul and never lose sight of the desire to be filled with the knowledge of His will. “For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:” - Colossians 1:9-14. We are children of God no longer walking in darkness, but in the light provided by our Lord Jesus Christ. We can make mistakes and lose sight of God, but God is always with us. It is time to get right with God, reconcile any differences we might have with Him and get back to doing good in His sight. He loves you and forgives you, if you have accepted Christ as your Savior, He has already forgiven you and forgotten everything that you ever did. It is now time for you to forgive you and forget it and start letting God be the center of your life. It takes time, but He knows it and does not expect you to change completely over night, but your willingness alone is all He needs to say, “This is My child and one after My own heart.”
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and have a good week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
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Sunday, May 16, 2010
Bible Study: Rejoice in The Lord, Always 05.16.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Sunday May 16, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 14-16. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-16
Title: Bible Study: Rejoice in The Lord, Always
As Christians we can rejoice in the fact that we know we have a great God on our side to shield us, comfort us, and correct us when we obey and follow our Lord Jesus Christ. No matter how faithful we are to God, at times, circumstances or even day to day life can cloud our minds to the point that we do not even realize He is always with us. Of course when that happens even more circumstances come our way until we realize that we have forgotten about God or that He is in control of the situation. We are to rejoice in the Lord always, through joy, happiness, mourning, pain, financial difficulties, marital problems, loneliness, and everything in between. When we rejoice in the Lord in every aspect of life we not only receive His blessings, we also go through a lot let suffering. God never places things before us that we can not handle.
David went through one trial after another before he became king, through it all he never failed to praise God or seek His guidance in the steps he took. Often the phrase, and David enquired of God, is written in the Scriptures. “And the Philistines came and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim. And David enquired of God, saying, Shall I go up against the Philistines? And wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the LORD said unto him, Go up; for I will deliver them into thine hand. So they came up to Baalperazim; and David smote them there. Then David said, God hath broken in upon mine enemies by mine hand like the breaking forth of waters: therefore they called the name of that place Baalperazim. And when they had left their gods there, David gave a commandment, and they were burned with fire. And the Philistines yet again spread themselves abroad in the valley. Therefore David enquired again of God; and God said unto him, Go not up after them; turn away from them, and come upon them over against the mulberry trees. And it shall be, when thou shalt hear a sound of going in the tops of the mulberry trees, that then thou shalt go out to battle: for God is gone forth before thee to smite the host of the Philistines. David therefore did as God commanded him: and they smote the host of the Philistines from Gibeon even to Gazer. And the fame of David went out into all lands; and the LORD brought the fear of him upon all nations.” - I Chronicles 14:9-17. David was prosperous and successful as a king and feared by all nations knowing that he was the king of God's people.
During the forty years that Saul reigned over Israel, the Ark was ignored, but when David became king, he was deeply concerned that the Ark, above which God's presence dwelt. He knew that the nation's success was dependent upon God's presence being in their midst. Soon after establishing his capital in Jerusalem, David united the nation for a glorious time of praising the Lord while bringing the Ark of God from the house of Obededom to Jerusalem. To demonstrate his reverence for God, and in recognition that God was the Supreme Ruler, David humbly laid aside his kingly garments and dressed in a plain linen ephod, a garment the priests wore when ministering before the Lord. “And David made him houses in the city of David, and prepared a place for the ark of God, and pitched for it a tent. Then David said, None ought to carry the ark of God but the Levites: for them hath the LORD chosen to carry the ark of God, and to minister unto him for ever. And David gathered all Israel together to Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the LORD unto his place, which he had prepared for it. And David assembled the children of Aaron, and the Levites:..And said unto them, Ye are the chief of the fathers of the Levites: sanctify yourselves, both ye and your brethren, that ye may bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel unto the place that I have prepared for it....And the children of the Levites bare the ark of God upon their shoulders with the staves thereon, as Moses commanded according to the word of the LORD....And David was clothed with a robe of fine linen, and all the Levites that bare the ark, and the singers, and Chenaniah the master of the song with the singers: David also had upon him an ephod of linen. ” - I Chronicles 15:1-4,12,15,27. In doing this, David was publicly acknowledging his submission to the authority of the supreme King and expressing adoration and praise to his Lord as Almighty God and the true King of Israel. This time David carefully obeyed God's Word, telling the priests to sanctify themselves and bear the Ark of God upon their shoulders as Moses commanded according to God's Word. God's work must be done in His way not in our own, if He is to be glorified. It is only as we serve the Lord according to His Word that we enjoy His presence and receive His blessing.
There is only one true God, oh people might try and create other gods and worship them as if they were God, but all they are doing is deceiving themselves and sending themselves right to hell, if they have not accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior. Even before Jesus came the people knew they needed to be saved, David encouraged the people to rejoice in their salvation in public, recognizing that there is only One God who saves. “Sing unto the LORD, all the earth; shew forth from day to day his salvation. Declare his glory among the heathen; his marvellous works among all nations. For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised: he also is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the people are idols: but the LORD made the heavens. Glory and honour are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place. Give unto the LORD, ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength. Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.” - I Chronicles 16:23-29. When we rejoice in the Lord always we will not only send joy to God we will become strengthen and able to handle tougher situations. We can not be afraid to show the world that we follow Christ. So, we are called Jesus freaks or something worse. I rather be a Jesus freak than act like a fool to please the public. It is only when we rejoice and praise God that He acknowledges and blesses us. There is a song called the never ending song, it's endless, the more you sing it the better you feel,
Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice.
Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
And Again I say rejoice.
Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice.
Keep repeating the verses over and over again.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and let's have a great week knowing Jesus is with us.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
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devotion@readytofollow.com
Today is Sunday May 16, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 14-16. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-16
Title: Bible Study: Rejoice in The Lord, Always
As Christians we can rejoice in the fact that we know we have a great God on our side to shield us, comfort us, and correct us when we obey and follow our Lord Jesus Christ. No matter how faithful we are to God, at times, circumstances or even day to day life can cloud our minds to the point that we do not even realize He is always with us. Of course when that happens even more circumstances come our way until we realize that we have forgotten about God or that He is in control of the situation. We are to rejoice in the Lord always, through joy, happiness, mourning, pain, financial difficulties, marital problems, loneliness, and everything in between. When we rejoice in the Lord in every aspect of life we not only receive His blessings, we also go through a lot let suffering. God never places things before us that we can not handle.
David went through one trial after another before he became king, through it all he never failed to praise God or seek His guidance in the steps he took. Often the phrase, and David enquired of God, is written in the Scriptures. “And the Philistines came and spread themselves in the valley of Rephaim. And David enquired of God, saying, Shall I go up against the Philistines? And wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the LORD said unto him, Go up; for I will deliver them into thine hand. So they came up to Baalperazim; and David smote them there. Then David said, God hath broken in upon mine enemies by mine hand like the breaking forth of waters: therefore they called the name of that place Baalperazim. And when they had left their gods there, David gave a commandment, and they were burned with fire. And the Philistines yet again spread themselves abroad in the valley. Therefore David enquired again of God; and God said unto him, Go not up after them; turn away from them, and come upon them over against the mulberry trees. And it shall be, when thou shalt hear a sound of going in the tops of the mulberry trees, that then thou shalt go out to battle: for God is gone forth before thee to smite the host of the Philistines. David therefore did as God commanded him: and they smote the host of the Philistines from Gibeon even to Gazer. And the fame of David went out into all lands; and the LORD brought the fear of him upon all nations.” - I Chronicles 14:9-17. David was prosperous and successful as a king and feared by all nations knowing that he was the king of God's people.
During the forty years that Saul reigned over Israel, the Ark was ignored, but when David became king, he was deeply concerned that the Ark, above which God's presence dwelt. He knew that the nation's success was dependent upon God's presence being in their midst. Soon after establishing his capital in Jerusalem, David united the nation for a glorious time of praising the Lord while bringing the Ark of God from the house of Obededom to Jerusalem. To demonstrate his reverence for God, and in recognition that God was the Supreme Ruler, David humbly laid aside his kingly garments and dressed in a plain linen ephod, a garment the priests wore when ministering before the Lord. “And David made him houses in the city of David, and prepared a place for the ark of God, and pitched for it a tent. Then David said, None ought to carry the ark of God but the Levites: for them hath the LORD chosen to carry the ark of God, and to minister unto him for ever. And David gathered all Israel together to Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the LORD unto his place, which he had prepared for it. And David assembled the children of Aaron, and the Levites:..And said unto them, Ye are the chief of the fathers of the Levites: sanctify yourselves, both ye and your brethren, that ye may bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel unto the place that I have prepared for it....And the children of the Levites bare the ark of God upon their shoulders with the staves thereon, as Moses commanded according to the word of the LORD....And David was clothed with a robe of fine linen, and all the Levites that bare the ark, and the singers, and Chenaniah the master of the song with the singers: David also had upon him an ephod of linen. ” - I Chronicles 15:1-4,12,15,27. In doing this, David was publicly acknowledging his submission to the authority of the supreme King and expressing adoration and praise to his Lord as Almighty God and the true King of Israel. This time David carefully obeyed God's Word, telling the priests to sanctify themselves and bear the Ark of God upon their shoulders as Moses commanded according to God's Word. God's work must be done in His way not in our own, if He is to be glorified. It is only as we serve the Lord according to His Word that we enjoy His presence and receive His blessing.
There is only one true God, oh people might try and create other gods and worship them as if they were God, but all they are doing is deceiving themselves and sending themselves right to hell, if they have not accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior. Even before Jesus came the people knew they needed to be saved, David encouraged the people to rejoice in their salvation in public, recognizing that there is only One God who saves. “Sing unto the LORD, all the earth; shew forth from day to day his salvation. Declare his glory among the heathen; his marvellous works among all nations. For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised: he also is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the people are idols: but the LORD made the heavens. Glory and honour are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place. Give unto the LORD, ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength. Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.” - I Chronicles 16:23-29. When we rejoice in the Lord always we will not only send joy to God we will become strengthen and able to handle tougher situations. We can not be afraid to show the world that we follow Christ. So, we are called Jesus freaks or something worse. I rather be a Jesus freak than act like a fool to please the public. It is only when we rejoice and praise God that He acknowledges and blesses us. There is a song called the never ending song, it's endless, the more you sing it the better you feel,
Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice.
Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice.
Rejoice! Rejoice!
And Again I say rejoice.
Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice.
Keep repeating the verses over and over again.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and let's have a great week knowing Jesus is with us.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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