Saturday, June 11, 2011

Take A Stand

King James Bible Study Daily Devotional
Message Title: Take A Stand
Date: Saturday June 11, 2011
Chapters: Nehemiah 13
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-june-11
Details of Today's Chapters: Cleansing the Temple, Nehemiah’s second visit to Jerusalem and his further reforms.

Hello My Friend/Guest,

“And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this? And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee. And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves, And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.“ - Matthew 21:10-13.

People will do anything to make money, including sell Christ, take a look at your Bible. What version do you have? Every version except for the King James Version is under copyright laws, meaning a person can only copy or quote a certain amount of words from that version and after that they have to pay and or give credit to the author of that version. There truly is only one author of the Holy Bible and that is God, but people all over the world make money trying to sell a version of His Word yet do not know one thing about God let alone His Word. True Bible believing Christians must take a stand for Jesus and not be afraid to speak and live by His truths no matter who tries to get in the way.

After being in Jerusalem for about 12 years Nehemiah said it was time to return home to Babylon, after all the Temple was in order and everyone was serving God faithfully. During his absence, the Jews began neglecting their duties and within a brief period of time, the people, including the spiritual leaders and church workers had lost interest in pleasing the Lord and began focusing once again on the things in the world. When Nehemiah arrived he was stricken with grief, how could such a small town get so out of touch with God so fast. Nehemiah quickly gathered everyone together, reminding them that were to separate themselves from among them.

“On that day they read in the book of Moses in the audience of the people; and therein was found written, that the Ammonite and the Moabite should not come into the congregation of God for ever; Because they met not the children of Israel with bread and with water, but hired Balaam against them, that he should curse them: howbeit our God turned the curse into a blessing. Now it came to pass, when they had heard the law, that they separated from Israel all the mixed multitude... And I came to Jerusalem, and understood of the evil that Eliashib did for Tobiah, in preparing him a chamber in the courts of the house of God. And it grieved me sore: therefore I cast forth all the household stuff of Tobiah out of the chamber. Then I commanded, and they cleansed the chambers: and thither brought I again the vessels of the house of God, with the meat offering and the frankincense.” - Nehemiah 13:1-3,7-9.

Israel was a peculiar people, and knew not to mingle with the heathens, but if they were not God's Word they would not have known who the heathen was. It is important that we as Christian realize we are a peculiar people also and are given the same commands as the Jews were given. Unless we learn who the heathen is we will be in the same predicament. “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul;” - I Peter 2:9-11.

It may sound strange and unfair for God to command that we separate ourselves from friends and family that are not living their lives for God But, let me tell you, God does it for our own good, there is a good reason why He separates us from them, while good always triumphs evil, evil takes control of God's people quickly if we are not staying in God's Word and heeding to that Word. It is not enough to read it we MUST follow it too. “Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls. But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” - James 1:21,22.

The Jews kept giving one excuse after another as to why they were not following God's commands, even the priests were making up excuses. Nehemiah put an end to the excuses and demanded that the Levites cleanse themselves and the Temple, reminding them of what he brought them out of.

“In those days saw I in Judah some treading wine presses on the sabbath, and bringing in sheaves, and lading asses; as also wine, grapes, and figs, and all manner of burdens, which they brought into Jerusalem on the sabbath day: and I testified against them in the day wherein they sold victuals. There dwelt men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all manner of ware, and sold on the sabbath unto the children of Judah, and in Jerusalem. Then I contended with the nobles of Judah, and said unto them, What evil thing is this that ye do, and profane the sabbath day?.. And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and that they should come and keep the gates, to sanctify the sabbath day. Remember me, O my God, concerning this also, and spare me according to the greatness of thy mercy.” - Nehemiah 13:15-17,22.

We all need a true man of God leading us, a true man of God will not let the world intimidate them from telling and living by the truth. Of course, church leaders make mistakes, we are all human, but they are our guides to understanding the things that God wants us to know when we are unsure of it ourselves. Jesus Christ died for the church, if you are saved you are a part of His church. We all need godly men in our lives willing to give us a firm talking to so we can cleanse our Temple that He dwells in. “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.” - I Corinthians 3:16,17.

Much too often Christians compromise with those who live in the world because they lack knowledge of the Scriptures or do not want to offend people. Where there is obvious opposition to what is clearly stated in God's Word, we must take a positive stand for Christ. While all who call on Christ to save them are forgiven and do not forfeit their entrance into the Kingdom of God, we all have to face Him when He returns. Don't you want to be one of the people that Jesus says, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.” - Matthew 25:21 to?

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Friday, June 10, 2011

Save Some Lives

King James Bible Study Daily Devotional
Message Title: Save Some Lives
Date: Friday June 10, 2011
Chapters: Nehemiah 11-12
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-june-10
Details of Today's Chapters: An account of those who dwelt in Jerusalem and the cities, the priests and Levites who went to Jerusalem with Zerubbabel, and the dedication of the walls.

Hello My Friend/Guest,

“Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” - Joshua 24:14,15.

God does not force anyone to serve Him, in fact, we are even free to serve any man made god we make up. However, who we serve greatly determines how we leave this world. It's not always easy serving the Almighty God, but if we serve Him with a sincere heart there is nothing He will not do for us here on earth above heaven.

When Nehemiah left Babylon he was determined to bring the presence of God back to Jerusalem, Ezra and his crew already restored the Temple, now, Nehemiah's crew set out to build that walls, and after much opposition they were complete. For the first time in nearly a hundred years the Book of the Law was read, the passover was observed, and everyone there promised to serve God only. However, very few of them actually lived within the walls, most of them lived in suburbs where they could grow crops, pasture their animals, and make a living more easily. Because of this, there were not enough people living in Jerusalem to maintain and protect it. The rulers give an account for all the people remaining in Jerusalem.

“And the rulers of the people dwelt at Jerusalem: the rest of the people also cast lots, to bring one of ten to dwell in Jerusalem the holy city, and nine parts to dwell in other cities. And the people blessed all the men, that willingly offered themselves to dwell at Jerusalem. Now these are the chief of the province that dwelt in Jerusalem: but in the cities of Judah dwelt every one in his possession in their cities, to wit, Israel, the priests, and the Levites, and the Nethinims, and the children of Solomon's servants.” - Nehemiah 11:1-3.

Jerusalem is the only city on earth called by God the holy city and where our Creator chose to put His Name. Only one in ten people chose to forsake their comfortable living to go into Jerusalem to rebuild the city. There are many uncomfortable situations and trials that come our way serving God, but we must realize that every hurdle we jump over is one more closer to the finish line which leads to the Kingdom of God. “ Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” -Matthew 6:31-33.

Nehemiah went to the people and convinced many to return to putting serving God first in their lives. It was a revival, the Levites and other people returned to God with great joy and forsook their own personal needs to rebuild the city.

“Now these are the priests and the Levites that went up with Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua: Seraiah, Jeremiah, Ezra,.. And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the dedication with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with singing, with cymbals, psalteries, and with harps...Then I brought up the princes of Judah upon the wall, and appointed two great companies of them that gave thanks, whereof one went on the right hand upon the wall toward the dung gate:” - Nehemiah 12:1,27,31.

It can be easy to get so sidetracked when the pressures of life come knocking at the door, and sadly, it is during times like these when most walk away from God. When we get to that point we must step back and seek a personal spiritual revival. It's amazing what praising can do when we worship the one true God. “Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.” - I Corinthians 4:5.

Just as God called His people out of Babylon to forsake personal gain, rebuild Jerusalem, and be free to worship Him and only Him, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has called us to rebuild our nations. “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, 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 alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” - Matthew 28:18-20.

It is time to go to God and ask Him what jobs need to be done, He has given you so many blessings, thank Him for them by helping Him out a little bit. There are so many people lost and in need to know the Savior, tell them about Him, you do not have to know the Bible, just know Jesus and tell them how you came to know Him. “And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.” - Matthew 9:35-38. There is a lot of work to be done, the harvest is plenty, but few a willing to bring in the crops, be a part of the few, do some work for God, and help save some lives.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Thursday, June 9, 2011

God's Amazing Grace

King James Bible Study Daily Devotional
Message Title: God's Amazing Grace
Date: Thursday June 09, 2011
Chapters: Nehemiah 9-10
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-june-9
Details of Today's Chapters: The people feast and repent, the confession of the priests and Levites, their covenant and the signers.

Hello My Friend/Guest,

“We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain...But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,.. And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” - II Corinthians 6:1,4,16-18.

The word grace is defined as the free unmerited love and favor of God, a state of reconciliation to God. We can do a million things for God, but unless we accept His Son, none of it will take us to heaven and save us from our sins and hell. It is only by God's grace that we are saved through our belief and acceptance in the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior not by our works. Now, after we get saved that is when our works begin to count and what determines the rewards we receive in heaven. Therefore, if we want the best that God has to offer it would be wise to separate ourselves from the things that cause us to sin.

The wall surrounding Jerusalem was complete and a revival had just begun, people were eager to know about this God that they have only heard about. There was this book to help them learn about this God, but they could not understand it because it was written in the Hebrew language (which is why the New Testament was written in the Aramaic language). Ezra and several others gathered all who wanted to know about this awesome God and attentively listened to the Book of the Law spoken to them.

“Now in the twenty and fourth day of this month the children of Israel were assembled with fasting, and with sackclothes, and earth upon them. And the seed of Israel separated themselves from all strangers, and stood and confessed their sins, and the iniquities of their fathers. And they stood up in their place, and read in the book of the law of the LORD their God one fourth part of the day; and another fourth part they confessed, and worshipped the LORD their God.” - Nehemiah 9:1-3.

Those who allow Christ to live in and through them will feel conviction from past or present sins, most immediately begin to seek forgiveness from God. It is an amazing feeling to go to God and ask Him for forgiveness and receive it by His grace, it is as if a huge weight comes off your shoulders and you can not help, but thank the Lord and praise Him for being such a merciful God. Praise God! We must make it a point to read and learn all of God's Word if we want to experience His full blessings. “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, throughly furnished unto all good works.” - II Timothy 3:16,17.

As the Jews heard God's Word preached they formed vowed to restore the covenant with God that He made with their fathers long ago.

“Now therefore, our God, the great, the mighty, and the terrible God, who keepest covenant and mercy, let not all the trouble seem little before thee, that hath come upon us, on our kings, on our princes, and on our priests, and on our prophets, and on our fathers, and on all thy people, since the time of the kings of Assyria unto this day. Howbeit thou art just in all that is brought upon us; for thou hast done right, but we have done wickedly:..And because of all this we make a sure covenant, and write it; and our princes, Levites, and priests, seal unto it.” - Nehemiah 9:32,33,38.

A covenant is an agreement made between two people, the second a person asks Jesus Christ to save them they make a sure covenant, an infallible agreement with God. The person agrees to accept that Christ died on the cross, was buried, then arose three days later to save them from hell and their sins, God agrees to save the person for their acceptance of Jesus and their asking Him to save them. “But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” - Romans 10:8-10.

The completion of the wall provided protection from the surrounding enemies and provided peace of mind to hear what God had to say. They wanted to know all of God's Word and little by little they learned about the generations before them and how they came to be where they are at present. Upon learning His Word they followed God's commands and promised to observe all of them.

“And the rest of the people, the priests, the Levites, the porters, the singers, the Nethinims, and all they that had separated themselves from the people of the lands unto the law of God, their wives, their sons, and their daughters, every one having knowledge, and having understanding; They clave to their brethren, their nobles, and entered into a curse, and into an oath, to walk in God's law, which was given by Moses the servant of God, and to observe and do all the commandments of the LORD our Lord, and his judgments and his statutes; And that we would not give our daughters unto the people of the land, nor take their daughters for our sons: And if the people of the land bring ware or any victuals on the sabbath day to sell, that we would not buy it of them on the sabbath, or on the holy day: and that we would leave the seventh year, and the exaction of every debt.” - Nehemiah 10:28-31.

"Entered into a curse", means that the people vowed to be connected to the Temple as one, meaning that together they were one body of God and if they were to separate from the Temple they would be cursed (live in affliction). All who accept Christ as their Savior are One Body in Christ, therefore, we too are to be one body of the Church. The second we separate from the body we are afflicted, think about times when you have been away from God for a time, life seemed to be emptier and more oppressed, well imagine that if you did not have God at all. “Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;” - II Corinthians 4:14-17. Praise God!


God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Wednesday, June 8, 2011

The Strait Gate

King James Bible Study Daily Devotional
Message Title: The Strait Gate
Date: Wednesday June 08, 2011
Chapters: Nehemiah 7-8
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-june-8
Details of Today's Chapters: Jerusalem is put in charge of Hanani and Hananiah, the genealogy of the remnant that came back to Judah, the Book of the law is read and explained, and the Feast of Tabernacles is restored.

Hello My Friend/Guest,

“And he went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem. Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are:“ - Luke 13:22-25.

The word strait means a position of difficulty, hardships, the path to the strait gate is very narrow and difficult to get to, but it leads to Jesus who gives life. Without Jesus no one gets through the gate, which leads to God and eternal life. Heaven is a huge place, full of streets of gold and mansions which Jesus is preparing for those whom have strive to enter the strait gate, but sadly, only a few will be able to get pass the doors into heaven.

The walls surrounding Jerusalem were repaired, the city was huge and it still needed a lot of work, but very few people were in it. Armed guards stood at the only entrance into the city, the gates were open during the day, but once the gates were closed no one was allowed to go through the gates unless their names were found written in the register book. The register book was the Israelites only documentation that they were true Israelites that came from Babylon, anyone not found written in the book was considered an imposter and denied entrance.

“And I said unto them, Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun be hot; and while they stand by, let them shut the doors, and bar them: and appoint watches of the inhabitants of Jerusalem, every one in his watch, and every one to be over against his house. Now the city was large and great: but the people were few therein, and the houses were not builded. And my God put into mine heart to gather together the nobles, and the rulers, and the people, that they might be reckoned by genealogy. And I found a register of the genealogy of them which came up at the first, and found written therein,” - Nehemiah 7:3-5.

The same way in which a person can enter the gate in Jerusalem, is the same way a person can enter the Kingdom of God, our names must be written in the Book of life, otherwise we are denied entry. Not only will they be denied entry to heave they will be cast into hell. “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” - Revelation 20:12-15.

The ultimate purpose God had for His people was more than just the restoration of the Temple and the walls of Jerusalem. These were man-made structures and powerless to protect the Israelites from their enemies unless they knew God and obeyed His Word. Unfortunately the book was written in Hebrew, which many of the new generation did not understand. However, thousands of Jews assembled at sunrise in Jerusalem day after day to hear Ezra and the Levites read and explain the Book of the Law.

“And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded to Israel. And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month. And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday, before the men and the women, and those that could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law... And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up: And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. And all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands: and they bowed their heads, and worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground.” - Nehemiah 8:1-3,5,6.

Until you receive Christ as your Savior God's Word is Greek to you, thousands of theologians study the word of God teaching false doctrine and have gone straight to hell because they were not saved. However, there is just enough knowledge given to the lost from the Word of God to help them understand how to be saved. Reading God's Word does not save you, only by confessing the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior saves you. “And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.” - I John 5:11-13.

When the Jews began hearing what was written in the Book of the Law they realized that they were not following God's commands. They felt so convicted they began to cry, but Ezra encouraged them not to cry, reminding them that God has forgiven them.

“Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength. So the Levites stilled all the people, saying, Hold your peace, for the day is holy; neither be ye grieved. And all the people went their way to eat, and to drink, and to send portions, and to make great mirth, because they had understood the words that were declared unto them. And on the second day were gathered together the chief of the fathers of all the people, the priests, and the Levites, unto Ezra the scribe, even to understand the words of the law.” - Nehemiah 8:10-13.

So many people are afraid to approach God because they feel ashamed and rejected by God over their current or past sins. We do not have to be afraid to come to God, it is good to feel convicted, it's the only way that God knows we realize that we are sinners. It is only through confession that we are forgiven, we must admit that we are sinners to be saved. As we humbly bow our heads, get on our knees, or even sit at our seats in prayer God will forgive the vilest of sin. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” - Romans 10:9,10. Praise God!

Remember, we only have to ask Jesus to save us once, He died once for us, that means He saves us once. With that in mind we still have to repent if we want to have a blessed relationship with God while here on earth. Accepting Christ as our Savior does more than save us from hell and get our names written in the Book of Life, His precious blood covers a multitude of sin. “Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” - James 5:19,20.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Christ Our Strength

King James Bible Study Daily Devotional
Message Title:
Date: Tuesday June 07, 2011
Chapters: Nehemiah 4-6
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-june-7
Details of Today's Chapters: Nehemiah faces opposition by ridicule, anger, and discouragement against building the walls, opposition by greed and heartlessness, Nehemiah’s example of unselfishness, manliness, and the wall is complete.

Hello My Friend/Guest,

“And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread. Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees. And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because we have taken no bread. Which when Jesus perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among yourselves, because ye have brought no bread?..How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? Then understood they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread, but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.” - Matthew 16:5-8,11,12.

The Pharisees and Sadducees were very religious people, the problem is they had very different views on how they were to worship God. As Christians we all try to follow God's command to love one another as their brother, while we are to be cordial to all we have to be careful of who we fellowship with, even other Christians. The devil has no problem with us believing in God or even accepting Christ, but if he can get a faithful Christian to stop or delay the work that God has called them to do He will use anyone, and I mean anyone to deter them.

Nehemiah and his minority group were determined to get the walls built around Jerusalem, but every where they turned they faced opposition not only from the worldly people, but even some of the Jews. However, they pressed forward reminding themselves that God was with them every step of the way.

“So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto the half thereof: for the people had a mind to work. But it came to pass, that when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and the Arabians, and the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites, heard that the walls of Jerusalem were made up, and that the breaches began to be stopped, then they were very wroth, And conspired all of them together to come and to fight against Jerusalem, and to hinder it. Nevertheless we made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against them day and night, because of them.” - Nehemiah 4:6-9.

Nehemiah appointed men to stand guard while others did the work. Working about 12 hours a day left little time for anything else, but the Jews faith in God gave them the strength to keep going no matter what opposition they faced. Christ is our strength, He and He alone is the only one who can truly help us through some of the circumstances we face. Satan loves tom place doubt and fear in our lives, but Jesus gives us assurance and godly fear to overcome any situation. “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me... But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:13,19. Praise God!

First the worldly people tried to get Nehemiah and his crew to stop and now here come the halfhearted Jews. It seems that the Jews were getting some type of loans and upon receiving them could not pay them back so, they were losing their possessions. These Jews went to Nehemiah for help, further delaying their work.

“And there was a great cry of the people and of their wives against their brethren the Jews. For there were that said, We, our sons, and our daughters, are many: therefore we take up corn for them, that we may eat, and live. Some also there were that said, We have mortgaged our lands, vineyards, and houses, that we might buy corn, because of the dearth. There were also that said, We have borrowed money for the king's tribute, and that upon our lands and vineyards. Yet now our flesh is as the flesh of our brethren, our children as their children: and, lo, we bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be servants, and some of our daughters are brought unto bondage already: neither is it in our power to redeem them; for other men have our lands and vineyards. And I was very angry when I heard their cry and these words... Also I said, It is not good that ye do: ought ye not to walk in the fear of our God because of the reproach of the heathen our enemies?” - Nehemiah 5:1-6,9.

Nehemiah's response, “You should be living in godly fear.” In other words, trust God and He will take care of you. Sometimes it seems that the more determination you have the harder it is to accomplish what we are trying to achieve. The truth is, it is harder, but through it all God is looking for a few things, faith, willingness, and trusting in Him alone, often He allows delays for one reason and one reason only, to get us to live in godly fear. “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me...Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” - Hebrews 13:5,6,21.

Just when you think you have gotten enough opposition here comes the devil with his false godly people trying to reek havoc as well. Sanballat must have thought if he could not deter Nehemiah with his own thinking that he could deter him with some prophets thinking, he sent messengers to try and get Nehemiah to meet them.

“That Sanballat and Geshem sent unto me, saying, Come, let us meet together in some one of the villages in the plain of Ono. But they thought to do me mischief... Wherein was written, It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu saith it, that thou and the Jews think to rebel: for which cause thou buildest the wall, that thou mayest be their king, according to these words. And thou hast also appointed prophets to preach of thee at Jerusalem, saying, There is a king in Judah: and now shall it be reported to the king according to these words. Come now therefore, and let us take counsel together. Then I sent unto him, saying, There are no such things done as thou sayest, but thou feignest them out of thine own heart. For they all made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from the work, that it be not done. Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands.” - Nehemiah 6:2-8.

The best thing we can do when we are weak is get with God, I will tell you what, Satan knows our weaknesses and will use them constantly to scare us and get us to alter our faith. The only absolute way to overcome Satan is through Christ. “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” - Ephesians 6:12,13.

There is a song I sing with my Sunday School class, “Jesus Loves Me”, part of the verse says, “Little ones to Him belong, they are weak, but He is strong.” All who accept Jesus Christ as their Savior belong to God, we are His “little ones”, the flesh is weak, but Jesus makes us strong. I had someone ask me, “Don't you trust yourself?” I said no, I have flesh and flesh stinks. Ever smell yourself after you haven't had a shower for a couple of days? The flesh really does stink. However, praise God for His mercy and grace for He takes the stink away. “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” - I John 1:7-9.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Monday, June 6, 2011

Free From Bondage

King James Bible Study Daily Devotional
Message Title: Free From Bondage
Date: Monday June 06, 2011
Chapters: Nehemiah 1-3
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-june-6
Details of Today's Chapters: Nehemiah learns of the distress in Jerusalem, his prayer for the people, Nehemiah’s visit to Jerusalem by permission of king Artaxerxes, and the wall of Jerusalem is built.

Hello My Friend/Guest,

“And yet for all that, when they be in the land of their enemies, I will not cast them away, neither will I abhor them, to destroy them utterly, and to break my covenant with them: for I am the LORD their God. But I will for their sakes remember the covenant of their ancestors, whom I brought forth out of the land of Egypt in the sight of the heathen, that I might be their God: I am the LORD.” - Leviticus 26:44,45.

Every person born has been in bondage to something in their lives, whether it be a person, place or thing. Those who call on the Lord Jesus Christ have been freed from the bondage of sin. Does it mean that we will never sin again? No. Does it mean we will never find ourselves in bondage again? That is up to us. Jesus has set us free, what we do with that freedom is up to us, should we remain living in bondage to what sin has brought is up to us, but regardless God has never forgotten the covenant or commitment that He makes to all who put their faith in His Son. “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:” - Ephesians 2:8.

The Book of Nehemiah is the sixteenth book of the Old Testament/Bible and contains thirteen chapters. The author of the book is Nehemiah and it was originally written to the Jews. The time line for these events are approximately 446 BC to 434 BC. The purpose of the book was to continue showing the history of Israel and the rebuilding of Jerusalem. What we are to learn from the book is that there is no opportunity without opposition and without faith works is dead. “And our adversaries said, They shall not know, neither see, till we come in the midst among them, and slay them, and cause the work to cease... And it came to pass, when our enemies heard that it was known unto us, and God had brought their counsel to nought, that we returned all of us to the wall, every one unto his work.” - Nehemiah 4:11,15.

When Nehemiah's relative Hanani arrived in Persia from Jerusalem, he told Nehemiah of the pitiful conditions that existed there. Nehemiah who knew the Scriptures and the power of prayer and fasting, went before God, reminding Him what He promised.

“And said, I beseech thee, O LORD God of heaven, the great and terrible God, that keepeth covenant and mercy for them that love him and observe his commandments: Let thine ear now be attentive, and thine eyes open, that thou mayest hear the prayer of thy servant, which I pray before thee now, day and night, for the children of Israel thy servants, and confess the sins of the children of Israel, which we have sinned against thee: both I and my father's house have sinned... Remember, I beseech thee, the word that thou commandedst thy servant Moses, saying, If ye transgress, I will scatter you abroad among the nations: But if ye turn unto me, and keep my commandments, and do them; though there were of you cast out unto the uttermost part of the heaven, yet will I gather them from thence, and will bring them unto the place that I have chosen to set my name there.” - Nehemiah 1:5,6,8,9.

God does not need reminders of what He promises, what God does need is to know that we are faithful to reading His Word, believe His Word, and are paying attention to what we are reading. When we remind God what He did for those we read about and believe that He can do it for us too that encourages God to give us what we are asking Him for. We must ask, in faith, believing if we want God to hear us and answer our prayers. “And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.“ -Matthew 21:22.

Nehemiah led a group of people from Babylon to Jerusalem to rebuild the walls. He left all the luxuries of home, and by faith headed for Jerusalem, still desolate and in ruins. Soon after Nehemiah they began rebuilding the walls, he faced opposition from Sanballat.

“But when Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, and Geshem the Arabian, heard it, they laughed us to scorn, and despised us, and said, What is this thing that ye do? will ye rebel against the king? Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem.” - Nehemiah 2:19,20.

Nehemiah knew that God was on his side and that as long as he was in His will he had nothing to fear. Of course, the we do for God the more opposition we will face from the devil, but God gives us the power to stand up and continue to do His work without fear. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” - II Timothy 1:7.

Letting go of the things we are held bondage to are dependent upon three things, faith, confession, and commitment. We must have faith that we can do all things through Christ, we must confess that we have sinned, and we must honor our commitment to God. Now, breaking a commitment to God does not forfeit our salvation, but it will cause some suffering. “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? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.” - I Peter 4:16-19.

We can live in the will of God in any of the circumstances we face, we can all get out of bondage in any of the circumstances we face too, the first step, Jesus. Jesus said, “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. Jesus is our peace, comfort, and He truly will set us free, but unless we come to Him nothing will ever change. Trust in Jesus and He will set you free.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Sunday, June 5, 2011

Not The Lord's

King James Bible Study Daily Devotional
Message Title: Not The Lord's
Date: Sunday June 05, 2011
Chapters: Ezra 10
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-june-5
Details of Today's Chapters: Separation is restored, the strange wives surrendered to God or put away

Hello My Friend/Guest,

“How shall I pardon thee for this? thy children have forsaken me, and sworn by them that are no gods: when I had fed them to the full, they then committed adultery, and assembled themselves by troops in the harlots' houses. They were as fed horses in the morning: every one neighed after his neighbour's wife. Shall I not visit for these things? saith the LORD: and shall not my soul be avenged on such a nation as this? Go ye up upon her walls, and destroy; but make not a full end: take away her battlements; for they are not the LORD'S.” - Jeremiah 5:7-10.

When one thinks of the word adultery the first thing that comes to mind to most of us is an extramarital affair. The word adultery goes beyond a physical affair, it is being disloyal and betraying the one you love, it is breaking a commitment given to one another. When we make a commitment whether, it be a marriage vow, a contract, or living our life for Christ we are accountable for following through with that commitment. If we are disloyal in any way, whether it be in body, mind, or spirit, we are committing adultery and will face some suffering.

Ezra, after making the long four month journey to Jerusalem, was expecting to find some faithful followers of God, instead he found ruins. Israelites, including Levites were married to strange (worldly) women, some of them having children with them. He was so distraught over their sins that it drove him to intense prayer, as the congregation heard his prayer they too began to seek God's forgiveness.

“Now when Ezra had prayed, and when he had confessed, weeping and casting himself down before the house of God, there assembled unto him out of Israel a very great congregation of men and women and children: for the people wept very sore. And Shechaniah the son of Jehiel, one of the sons of Elam, answered and said unto Ezra, We have trespassed against our God, and have taken strange wives of the people of the land: yet now there is hope in Israel concerning this thing. Now therefore let us make a covenant with our God to put away all the wives, and such as are born of them, according to the counsel of my lord, and of those that tremble at the commandment of our God; and let it be done according to the law.” - Ezra 10:1-3.

One by one, each man who had married a strange woman had to present himself with his wife and children before the court to determine whether or not they were involved in idol worshiping or were worshipers of the true God of Israel, it they were idol worshipers they had to get a divorce and separate from them forever.

“And Ezra the priest stood up, and said unto them, Ye have transgressed, and have taken strange wives, to increase the trespass of Israel. Now therefore make confession unto the LORD God of your fathers, and do his pleasure: and separate yourselves from the people of the land, and from the strange wives. Then all the congregation answered and said with a loud voice, As thou hast said, so must we do... And they gave their hands that they would put away their wives; and being guilty, they offered a ram of the flock for their trespass.” - Ezra 10:10-12,19.

Now, God hates divorce and regardless of whether or not they are godly He does not condone anyone getting a divorce. It is important as Christians that we be separated from non-believers, they will almost always get us away from God and into their wicked living, but by the power of God He can convert any worldly person if their mate remains faithful to God. Should that not be so, God will make a way for them to become separated, Jesus Said, “But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.” - Matthew 5:32.

I was engaged to a man who was morally corrupt and took me right down there with him until I realized I did not know who I was anymore. God separated us and during that time he became converted and is now changing his life with God in it. God does not make up these rules to keep us from living a good life or marrying the person we love, He makes them to keep us from going through unnecessary suffering. We are going to go through some suffering in any relationship, but we can endure it and become stronger all by the power of God.

“Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? For they verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers of his holiness. Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.” - Hebrews 12:9-11.

Every time we put people, things, hobbies, or careers before God, every time we miss a church service to go to a game, or every time we break one of His commands when we know it is a sin, we are committing spiritual adultery with God. Now, God knows what we are going through, He knows there are times when we may have to work because of a conflicting schedule, get sick, get caught up in obligations, or are just having a rough day and He is okay with that. He loves us, but we must get back up and keep moving forward with the power of God. He and He alone is the key to peace in any relationship, even one with God. “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” - II Peter 1:3,4.

God knows our hearts and He will not pardon anyone who has not truly, wholeheartedly accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior. Of course, we are going to sin again, of course, we are going to have days when God is not in the picture, but God will never leave nor forsake those who truly are committed to Him. Just like any marriage, it takes work to have a good, solid relationship, but the best part is that it becomes a honest, trusting, loving partnership that nothing or no one can separate. “Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” - Hebrews 13:4-6. Praise God!

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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