Saturday, May 21, 2011

Greater Works

Message Title: Greater Works
Date: Saturday May 21, 2011
Chapters: II Chronicles 1-3
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-21
Details of Today's Chapters: Solomon’s sacrifices at Gibeon, his vision prayer,and God’s answer through a dream, Solomon's dedication to build the Temple and a home for himself, and the building of the Temple begins.

Hello My Friend/Guest,

“Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.“ - John 15:14-16.

I imagine all of us get tired and more often than none just spend the day not doing anything at all when there is much to be done. Now, God knows when we need rest and when we are just being slothful, but either way He has chosen us to represent and serve Him. The amazing thing is when we do get going we prosper, God gives is the desires of our hearts when we follow His commands.

The book of II Chronicles is the fourteenth book of the Old Testament/Bible and contains thirty-six chapters. The time line for these events took place approximately 1015 BC – 610 BC. 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. “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” - II Chronicles 7:14.

After David died Solomon was given the task to not only reign over the kingdom, but to build a house for God, one with walls instead of a tent. I imagine Solomon was a bit uneasy about such a huge task, but God was with him and knew what he was feeling. Through a dream Solomon had a very inspiring conversation with God.

“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:” - II Chronicles 1:8-11.

God spoke to Solomon in a dream because it was His intention to get Solomon to see 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. As we read our Bibles we should daily say to God, “Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.” - Psalm 119:18.

Now Solomon was determined to build the Temple as his father David instructed, he began to gather only the best people along with those David appointed. Solomon sent message to Huram, one of David's trusted friends, that he needed some of his people.

“Behold, I build an house to the name of the LORD my God, to dedicate it to him, and to burn before him sweet incense, and for the continual shewbread, and for the burnt offerings morning and evening, on the sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts of the LORD our God. This is an ordinance for ever to Israel. And the house which I build is great: for great is our God above all gods. But who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him? who am I then, that I should build him an house, save only to burn sacrifice before him? Send me now therefore a man cunning to work in gold, and in silver, and in brass, and in iron, and in purple, and crimson, and blue, and that can skill to grave with the cunning men that are with me in Judah and in Jerusalem, whom David my father did provide.” - II Chronicles 2:4-7.

Solomon attempted to possess Huram with great and high thoughts of the God of Israel. Solomon expresses that building a house for our great God, would not be a place to contain Him as He is infinite and can not be contained, but it would be a place to worship Him there where he would be graciously present. A wise and godly king is evidence of the Lord's special love for His people. How great then was God's love to His believing people, in giving His only-begotten Son to be their Prince and their Savior. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.” - Romans 5:8,9.

Solomon not only used Jews to help build the Temple he used strangers as well, known as the Gentiles. “And Solomon numbered all the strangers that were in the land of Israel, after the numbering wherewith David his father had numbered them; and they were found an hundred and fifty thousand and three thousand and six hundred. And he set threescore and ten thousand of them to be bearers of burdens, and fourscore thousand to be hewers in the mountain, and three thousand and six hundred overseers to set the people a work.“ - II Chronicles 2:17,18.

While God chose the Jews as His people He did not stop any of the people from other nations from wanting to live for Him. We learn of countless times where Jews and Gentiles became God's people. The same is true today, we are no longer looked upon as a Jew or Gentile, but a Christian, a believer of Christ. Every person here on earth has a choice, either they will accept eternal life or eternal death, whether Jew or Gentile. “But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God; Who will render to every man according to his deeds:..Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile; But glory, honour, and peace, to every man that worketh good, to the Jew first, and also to the Gentile: For there is no respect of persons with God.” -Romans 2:5,6,9-11.

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 follow 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. The Holy Spirit gives us the wisdom, knowledge, and encouragement we need to accomplish the task that God has given us to do. In fact, Jesus said with the Holy Spirit guiding us we will accomplish more that He did when we was here in the flesh.

“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.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Friday, May 20, 2011

Example To Others

Message Title: Example To Others
Date: Friday May 20, 2011
Chapters: I Chronicles 27-29
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-20
Details of Today's Reading: The captains for each month, princes of the twelve tribes, David’s several officers, David counsels Israel and Solomon concerning the Temple, David exhorts the people, the princes and people willingly offer, and David’s thanksgiving and prayer.

Hello My Friend/Guest,

“And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ...Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing... Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.” - II Thessalonians 3:5,9-13,16..

As children of God we represent Jesus Christ, therefore, whether you are a cashier, truck driver, janitor, website designer, housewife, or whatever job you have you are to set the right example for others to follow. A Christian should be the best worker above all others, not to boast about yourself, but to glorify God. While we may not like the job we have, as long as we do the work we are commanded to do in the love of God we will be blessed.

Before King David handed over the reigns to Solomon he appointed captains, officers, and workers over the kingdom. From the groundskeepers to the captains of the guards every person was chosen by David himself.
“Now the children of Israel after their number, to wit, the chief fathers and captains of thousands and hundreds, and their officers that served the king in any matter of the courses, which came in and went out month by month throughout all the months of the year, of every course were twenty and four thousand...And over the king's treasures was Azmaveth the son of Adiel: and over the storehouses in the fields, in the cities, and in the villages, and in the castles, was Jehonathan the son of Uzziah:..Also Jonathan David's uncle was a counsellor, a wise man, and a scribe: and Jehiel the son of Hachmoni was with the king's sons:” - I Chronicles 27:1,25,32.

God calls every one of us to do a specific job for Him and if it takes nearly a lifetime on earth to do it, He will keep on us until we 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 or every day stresses in life that can deafen us from hearing His call. It is times like these when we need to let go of the burdens and let Jesus handle things. Jesus says to all, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.“ - Matthew 11:28-30.

After David appointed everyone of their duties he gathers them all together, the first thing he does is thank and praise God for anointing him as king. David encourages them to put God first, reminding them that the work they are doing is a gift from God and needs to be done with Him in mind.

“Howbeit the LORD God of Israel chose me before all the house of my father to be king over Israel for ever: for he hath chosen Judah to be the ruler; and of the house of Judah, the house of my father; and among the sons of my father he liked me to make me king over all Israel:.. 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 David said to Solomon his son, Be strong and of good courage, and do it: fear not, nor be dismayed: for the LORD God, even my God, will be with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee, until thou hast finished all the work for the service of the house of the LORD.” - I Chronicles 28:4,8,20.

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 and complete the job he was given to do. It is important to reverence, thank God, and acknowledge to Him that He is the reason for our success. The richest person in the world is rich because God allowed it to happen. Of course, if they live in the world they will never admit that it was God, but just as God can give the increase He can take it away and quickly too. While one may prosper for a little while without knowing God, it is only a matter of time before that prosperity turns to despair. “Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death. The LORD will not suffer the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance of the wicked.” - Proverbs 10:2,3.

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 our work. After David's instructions, he offered one of the most inspiring prayers recorded in Scripture, a prayer of thanksgiving, praise, adoration, and God's great love.

“Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly, because with perfect heart they offered willingly to the LORD: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy. Wherefore David blessed the LORD before all the congregation: and David said, Blessed be thou, LORD God of Israel our father, for ever and ever. 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.” - I Chronicles 29:9-13.

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 often through praise and worship, especially through our trying days that God will lift us up and give us the strength to keep going. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.” - James 4:8-10.

Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the gold offered for the Temple by David from his personal wealth (29:3-5). Gold is the purest metal and represents the preciousness, pureness, and great worth of Christ. “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.” - I John 3:2,3.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Thursday, May 19, 2011

Edifying The Body of Christ

Message Title: Edifying The Body of Christ
Date: Thursday May 19, 2011
Chapters: I Chronicles 24-26
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-19
Details of Today's Reading: The divisions of the priests and Levites for serving in the Temple, the offices of the Temple singers and musicians, the division of the Temple porters, the treasurers, officers and the judges.

Hello My Friend/Guest,

“There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all. But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ... And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:” - Ephesians 4:4-7,11,12.

Religions are not created equal, while we would all like to think that we all follow One God, one faith, and one baptism only a select few follow the truth. Therefore, God leaves the task for those who do follow the truth to teach that truth to the others. Why? To perfect the ministry, to edify the body of Christ.

King David appointed specific Levites for serving in the Temple, from the high priest to the janitor, every person was given a specific task for the work of the ministry.

“Now these are the divisions of the sons of Aaron. The sons of Aaron; Nadab, and Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar. But Nadab and Abihu died before their father, and had no children: therefore Eleazar and Ithamar executed the priest's office. And David distributed them, both Zadok of the sons of Eleazar, and Ahimelech of the sons of Ithamar, according to their offices in their service. And there were more chief men found of the sons of Eleazar than of the sons of Ithamar; and thus were they divided. Among the sons of Eleazar there were sixteen chief men of the house of their fathers, and eight among the sons of Ithamar according to the house of their fathers. Thus were they divided by lot, one sort with another; for the governors of the sanctuary, and governors of the house of God, were of the sons of Eleazar, and of the sons of Ithamar.“ - I Chronicles 24:1-5.

God was, and is still, the God of order, particularly in the things of His worship. Every Christian should therefore pray to know his place in the work of God and should keep to it. “For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant. Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men. Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God.” - I Corinthians 7:22-24.

Perhaps one of the most influential to the body is music, music gets our attention, now, some types of music get the attention of the flesh, while others get the attention of the soul, which is the music we need to be listening to. David appointed certain men and women even for the task of providing music not only for the people, but for God as well.

“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 25:5-7.

The glory and honor of God should be extolled in the music of the church whether vocal or instrumental, making melody from the heart as to the Lord. We should not only sing those songs in church, but throughout the day, God loves to hear us sing out to Him, the more we sing the more He is lifted, which lifts us up and increases our faith as well. “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;” - Ephesians 5:18-20.

Every task that God calls us to do is very important to Him, David now appointed who would be the gate keepers and treasurers of the Temple.

“Concerning the divisions of the porters: Of the Korhites was Meshelemiah the son of Kore, of the sons of Asaph...The sons of Jehieli; Zetham, and Joel his brother, which were over the treasures of the house of the LORD...Which Shelomith and his brethren were over all the treasures of the dedicated things, which David the king, and the chief fathers, the captains over thousands and hundreds, and the captains of the host, had dedicated. Out of the spoils won in battles did they dedicate to maintain the house of the LORD. And all that Samuel the seer, and Saul the son of Kish, and Abner the son of Ner, and Joab the son of Zeruiah, had dedicated; and whosoever had dedicated any thing, it was under the hand of Shelomith, and of his brethren.” - I Chronicles 26:1,22,26-28.

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. This same is true today, whether you are sweeping floors, greeting people at the door, teaching God's Word, singing in the choir, or are a man of God, we all have the same purpose to worship and serve the great Almighty God in the way that He intended for us to do it. “How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.” - Hebrews 9:14,15.

The most important task in the world for every Christian is to teach others the truth about Jesus 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.

Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the Temple treasures, Jesus Christ holds all the treasures we need. “That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” - Colossians 2:2,3.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Satan's Ignorant Devices

Message Title: Satan's Ignorant Devices
Date: Wednesday May 18, 2011
Chapters: I Chronicles 21-23
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-18
Details of Today's Reading: David’s sin in numbering the people, Joab’s faithful protest, David’s chooses the punishment, David prepares the material used to build the Temple, David instructs Solomon in God’s promises, the princes are called to assist Solomon, and the number and distribution of the Levites.

Hello My Friend/Guest,

“Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him. For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things. To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ; Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.” - II Corinthians 2:8-11.

Of all the people Satan messes with most it is God's faithful servants, there is not one of God's children that Satan does not try to destroy. While he can not destroy any of God's children, he can do a very good job at taking advantage of them, especially when it comes to seeking forgiveness for sins committed. Satan deceives people into thinking that God will never forgive them, but God's mercy is far greater than any of Satan's ignorant devices.

David was probably one of the most godliest kings of all nations, even today, but as strong as his faith in God was David was just as human as the rest of us who are all born with a sin nature. Sooner or later Satan will get the best of us and this time he got 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.” - I Chronicles 21:1-4.

Even with Joab's warning David still numbered the people, this was a sin based on Mose's Law which did state that every person counted was to be compensated for, which David did not do (See Exodus 30). Often God will allow Satan to tempt us, the temptation is not a sin, acting up the temptation is sin. I have seen so many people, including myself, ignore the warnings of temptation, and fall right into sin, but once that thought turns to action the consequences are our own, we can not escape the chastisement. “Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” - I Peter 4:16,17.

After the sin was committed the quilt of it set in, David immediately knew he sinned, but the damage was done, he had to choose which form of punishment that Israel would have to endure for his sin.

“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.” - I Chronicles 21:7-10.

The amazing thing about God is His mercy, as God was about to bring judgment upon Israel for David's sin, David begged God not to take it out on them, but judge him instead. While seventy thousand people did die as a result of a plague, the rest of Israel was saved because David asked God for his forgiveness and God Himself withdrew His judgment.

“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.” - I Chronicles 21:16-18.

The command for David to build an altar was a blessed token of reconciliation with God. God testified His acceptance of David's offerings on this altar. Thus Christ was made sin, and a curse for us, it pleased the Lord to bruise Him, that through Him, God might be to us, not a consuming Fire, but a reconciled God. “For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled” - Colossians 1:19-21.

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. We do not have to let Satan take advantage of us, we can overcome all his ignorant devices that cause us to fall into temptation. The key to overcoming Satan is Jesus Christ and Jesus Christ alone.

“Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus... I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” - Philippians 4:5-7,13.

Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through David who wanted to protect the sheep. Jesus is the Good Shepherd who protects all His sheep. “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.“ - John 10:11.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Tuesday, May 17, 2011

King James Bible Study: Preserved By God

King James Bible Study: Preserved By God
For: Tuesday May 17, 2011
Chapters: I Chronicles 17-20
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-17
Details of Today's Reading: David’s desire to build the Temple, the Davidic covenant God made with his seed, David’s prayer, David’s kingdom fully established, the Ammonite-Syrian war, Joab and David defeat Rabbah, and another war with the Philistines.

Hello My Friend/Guest,

“See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” - I Thessalonians 5:15-23.

The word preserved means to keep or save from injury or destruction, to defend from evil, to uphold; to sustain. God promises to preserve, or sustain all His people, even if they have fallen over and over again His people have a place in heaven. Now, that does not mean that they will not face any trials, chastisement, or affliction while here on earth, but it does mean that we are preserved, saved, kept, no matter how much we mess things up, through our faith and trust in Jesus Christ.

From the second God created the heavens and earth God knew that Adam and Eve would sin and cast the curse of a dead spirit on down to us. However, they knew as well as every other faithful follower of God that Jesus would come to make a way for that curse to be broken. As David was preparing his kingdom he wanted to make sure God's Ark had a home, but God was content with the Tabernacle that it was dwelling in. However, God did promise David that a Savior would come from his seed to reign over His Kingdom forever.

“And since the time that I commanded judges to be over my people Israel. Moreover I will subdue all thine enemies. Furthermore I tell thee that the LORD will build thee an house. And it shall come to pass, when thy days be expired that thou must go to be with thy fathers, that I will raise up thy seed after thee, which shall be of thy sons; and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build me an house, and I will stablish his throne for ever. I will be his father, and he shall be my son: and I will not take my mercy away from him, as I took it from him that was before thee: But I will settle him in mine house and in my kingdom for ever: and his throne shall be established for evermore.” - I Chronicles 17:10-14.

This is a foretelling of Jesus Christ who is the head, or king of all God's church, consisting of Jews and Gentiles, and of all nations, and creatures too, all of which is God's kingdom, and by Him given to His Son our blessed Lord. When Jesus returns He is going to take the throne and every nation and every church will bow before Him. “Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power;” - II Timothy 1:6-9.

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 God and his prayer life were the key to his greatness, in every battle he sought God's advice and saw victory through it

“Now when Tou king of Hamath heard how David had smitten all the host of Hadarezer king of Zobah; He sent Hadoram his son to king David, to enquire of his welfare, and to congratulate him, because he had fought against Hadarezer, and smitten him; (for Hadarezer had war with Tou;) and with him all manner of vessels of gold and silver and brass. Them also king David dedicated unto the LORD, with the silver and the gold that he brought from all these nations; from Edom, and from Moab, and from the children of Ammon, and from the Philistines, and from Amalek...And he put garrisons in Edom; and all the Edomites became David's servants. Thus the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went.” - I Chronicles 18:9-11,13.

Christ is our strength, He will take the weakest person and give them the strength to move mountains. The key to victory is communicating with God, we are to never cease from praying. “Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting. ”- Matthew 17:19-21.

What we do to change our lives after we accept Jesus as our Davior 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 simply by 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, therefor,e 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.

“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them. Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged. Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God: And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” - Colossians 3:17-24.

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, keeping us preserved. The least we can do to thank Him for sending His Son to us and giving His life to save us is act like we know Him.

Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through David, the shepherd-king (17:7) symbolic of the Good Shepherd. “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.“ - John 10:11

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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King James Bible Study: Remaining Faithful

I apologize for this being posted late, I was very ill yesterday. You will receive today's devotional later today. Thanks for your faithfulness and patience with me these past few weeks.

King James Bible Study: Remaining Faithful
For: Monday May 16, 2011
Chapters: I Chronicles 14-16
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-16
Details of Today's Reading: The prosperity of King David, Israel's double defeat of the Philistines, the Ark is brought to Jerusalem in the appointed way, David’s festival and psalm of thanksgiving, and the Ark established in Jerusalem.

Hello My Friend/Guest,

“Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted...There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” - I Corinthians 10:6,13.

There are going to be lots of struggles in our lives, however, we are to remain faithful to God at all times, not only through joy, happiness, and blessings, but through temptations, pain, financial difficulties, marital problems, loneliness, or whatever it is that we are going through. Everything we go through is really a blessing and as long as we remain faithful to God we will see joy, happiness, and lots more blessings.

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. In fact, most of the Psalms were written by David as he was going through these struggles. Now, he is king and once again the Philistines are causing problems, the first thing David did was seek God's advice.

“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... 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.” - I Chronicles 14:9,10,13-16.

David's success did not come because of all the mighty men in his army, it came because he sought God's advice and did exactly what He told him. Can I tell you that many of the struggles we go through are the result of our not doing exactly what God tells us to do. God still talks to us as He did David, to hear Him we just need to listen and “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” - Proverbs 3:5.

David knew that the nation's success was only dependent upon God's presence being in their midst. During the forty years that Saul reigned over Israel, the Ark, which was where God's present was known to Israel, was ignored, so, there was not a lot of faithful followers. David was bent on bringing the Ark to Jerusalem, the first attempt, was very unsuccessful and caused a man to lose his life. The second attempt proved successful as this time David learned the proper way to move the Ark.

“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. For because ye did it not at the first, the LORD our God made a breach upon us, for that we sought him not after the due order. So the priests and the Levites sanctified themselves to bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel. 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.” - I Chronicles 15:3,4,12-15.

This time David carefully obeyed God, 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 His way not our own, even in our best intentions serious repercussions can occur if we do not follow His instructions precisely. Ignorance does not save a person from ending up in hell, there is only one way to escape the lake of fire and that is through Jesus Christ.

“But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” - II Peter 7-10.

There is only One True and Living God, if it is our faith in His Son that keeps us from hell, the sad thing is that people 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 to earth in the flesh 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 for our salvation and all others are just man made, false gods.

“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.” - I Chronicles 16:23-27.

David never stopped praising God, even when he sinned and was chastised he still praised God and remained faithful to Him. When we praise God in everything we will not only send joy to God we will become strengthen and prepared to handle the next trial we face. “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.” - I Peter 4:12-14. Praise God!

Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through David's fame and exaltation, God highly exalted Christ. “And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. “ - Matthew 3:17.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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