Thursday, December 31, 2015

The Lamb's Book Of Life

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Thursday, December 31, 2015
Chapters: Revelation 20-22
Message Title: The Lamb's Book Of Life

Hello My Friend,

There is this song, “I Can Only Imagine”, it paints a picture of what it could be like when we meet Jesus. Now, every knee will bow before Him, regardless if we are saved or not, because once we do come face to face with Him we will see just how unworthy we are to be in His presence, but think about this. In this life God has given us, the battles we face, the struggles we go through, or perhaps the messes we make, what exactly will Jesus look for when we meet Him? Our faith. Did we at any time trust Him, and Him alone as our Saviour? Did we confess to Him that we are a sinner, and cannot be saved from death and hell without Him? “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. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.” - Romans 10:9-11.

We must understand one important thing, we will all stand before Jesus and give an account for the lives we have lived. As John continues to get visions from Jesus on what will take place before, during, and after He returns to earth, we are taken a the time, after the tribulation, a time when He will reign as King while the devil is cast into prison for a thousand years. Upon the devil's release is when the final judgment will begin, and the devil will finally get what he deserves for bringing all this evil in the world and upon mankind to begin with.

And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. 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.” - Revelation 20:4-6,10-12.
But the rest of the dead lived not again” These are those who died after the tribulation. The Book of Life, this is the book that contains the names of every soul that received Christ as their Saviour, this is the first book Jesus looks through. One of the other books contains the names of those who are not saved, it lists every single sin they committed, including times they had the opportunity to be saved and did not. Another book contains the names of the saved, and every single thing they did after they were saved (not sins because they were forgiven and forgotten), including opportunities missed. While the saved will not be cast into the lake of fire, they will get crowns and rewards for the things they did after they were.

Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.” - Matthew 25:34-40.

Now, Jesus reveals the greatest reward the saved will receive as well as what the unsaved will receive. “And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife. And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.” - Revelation 21:5-10,27.

And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth,” Imagine no more sickness, suffering, death, sin, poverty, people mocking and making fun of you, no more getting hurt, even no more tears. Now, that is something to look forward to, and let me tell you, those who reject Christ may do so because they want to live in sin, but they do not choose the suffering. If any of them that died could speak to you now they would be begging you to receive Christ if you didn't already so you wouldn't have to be in torment like they are in. “And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.” - Luke 16:22-25.

The bride is the Church, which make up the body of Christ, our Lamb. All who believe in and receive Him to will join Him in the marriage feast and His Kingdom. Praise God! But that is not all, Jesus shows John one more vision, a new heaven and earth, with Him on His throne.

And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever. And he saith unto me, Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at hand. He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.” - Revelation 22:1-5,10-12.

And there shall be no more curse:” What a sight! Streets of gold, crystal rivers, walls made from precious stones, a tree that produces endless fruit, and above all, the sin nature and death curse that was passed on to all of us will be no more. We do not have to be afraid of what the future brings because Jesus is already there, and He will reward us for our faithfulness. “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:” - 1 Peter 1:7

Today's Prayer: God, Thank You for giving those who have accepted Your Son eternal life and victory not only over death, but the devil's attempts to destroy our faith in You. Lord, give us Your power and strength to endure our struggles, to never give up on You, and to always be reminded that nothing is impossible, we can do all things through Christ, who gives us strength. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

God's Judgment, One Solution

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Wednesday, December 30, 2015
Chapters: Revelation 18-19
Message Title: God's Judgment, One Solution

Hello My Friend,

Sin, there is no other word more powerful in the world than sin. Why? People tie the word sin with religion. And no matter what religion you belong to, it's known as something that is forbidden. Many people when they hear that word flee and rebel. What is sin? Sin is any wrongdoing in the eyes of God. Let me tell you, religion does not view sin in the same way that God does, in fact, it is religion that imposes more restrictions on us than God. Of course, there are some things that are an abomination to God, but He knows that none of us are perfect, that is why He sent His perfect Son, not only to give us an example on how God wants us to live, but to give us a way to avoid the punishment of sin (which no one escapes).

As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:” - Romans 3:10,11,21-24.

No matter how big or small sin comes with a price, and that price is death and hell, and to those who think God is cruel for allowing hell in the first place, think again. God does not bring evil upon us, the devil is the root of all evil, but every person born has the power to do good and evil. We choose how we live, not God or the devil, and unfortunately God places judgment upon all who choose evil over good. Salvation does not exempt us from the earthly consequences resulting from sin, but it does pay the sin debt we owe. As John continues to see the visions of what is to come of the world, Jesus gives one last description of what is going on in the world and a warning for all of His people to get out of there before He returns.

And after these things I saw another angel come down from heaven, having great power; and the earth was lightened with his glory. And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and hateful bird. For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues. For her sins have reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.” - Revelation 18:1-5.

Come out of her, my people,While God's people will be safe in the clouds when all this destruction takes place it's important that we get out of the world. It's pretty scary to read these chapters every year and realize how much of it is coming to pass. If we are living in a way that is pleasing to God we do not have to live in fear of it because Jesus is with us. And if we are not living right, the time is now. “Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God. Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” - James 4:4-7.

God's judgments are not given to keep us from living a good and prosperous life, they are given to keep us from unnecessary suffering. God's judgments are always just, meaning He righteous, honest, true, and treats everyone the same. John hears the praises of God's just judgment in heaven. And after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God: For true and righteous are his judgments: for he hath judged the great whore, which did corrupt the earth with her fornication, and hath avenged the blood of his servants at her hand. And again they said, Alleluia. And her smoke rose up for ever and ever. And the four and twenty elders and the four beasts fell down and worshipped God that sat on the throne, saying, Amen; Alleluia. And a voice came out of the throne, saying, Praise our God, all ye his servants, and ye that fear him, both small and great.” - Revelation 19:1-5.

Alleluia; Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power,The word Alleluia means, "Praise ye the Lord". During this time, known as the millennium, Jews will finally acknowledge that Jesus is the Messiah, and all believing Jews and Gentiles will become one church, we will worship and praise the Lord together. Saying "Alleluia" in all that God does and allow is accepting His judgments, knowing that all good things will come from obeying Him. “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.” - 2 Corinthians 4:14,15.

Jesus also reveals to John how He will return, and what will happen during the millennium.
And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself. And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS. And I saw an angel standing in the sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the fowls that fly in the midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of the great God;” - Revelation 19:11-17.

in righteousness he doth judge and make war.Jesus, the Faithful and True, is dressed in a type of clothing dipped in His own blood. His name is, The Word of God. He will not draw a sword, He will simply speak the Word of God and it will pierce through every false prophet, unbeliever, deceiver, and anyone else who does the work of the devil and the Antichrist. The final judgment for them, they will all be cast into the lake of fire. And the beast was taken, and with him the false prophet that wrought miracles before him, with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone. And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse, which sword proceeded out of his mouth: and all the fowls were filled with their flesh.” - Revelation 19:20,21.

And the remnant were slain with the sword of him that sat upon the horse,Modern culture defines Judgment Day as the last day, the end of time, this is incorrect. Judgment Day is the day that Jesus will return to judge all mankind, but it is by far the end of time. The truth is, whether you know Christ or not your soul will spend eternity somewhere, if you know Him that would be in His kingdom, which He will restore in the new earth, if you do not know Him that would with the devil in the lake of fire. “As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” - John 17:2,3.

Today's Prayer: God, You warn us that Your final judgment upon all mankind will come quickly. We, who are saved look forward to that glorious day when all of creation acknowledges You as Lord, but our hearts cry out to family members and loved ones who have denied Your Son. Lord, renew our passion for reaching the lost so that they too will proclaim Christ as King of kings, open their hearts to receive Your Son as You have opened ours. Give us peace and comfort upon those who reject Him, and give us Your power to be the example of Christ, and to know the difference between Your laws and mans religion. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.

Tuesday, December 29, 2015

Being Prepared For Christ's Return

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Chapters: Revelation 15-17
Message Title: Being Prepared For Christ's Return

Hello My Friend,

As Christians, we can rejoice in the fact that God is gracious and merciful to forgive us of our sins before and after we got saved. His promise is to never leave nor forsake us, but that does not mean we will not face any consequences for our actions after we are saved. If we are saved by no righteousness of our own, why does God care how we live? We are His children, He expects us to be thankful and grateful for His saving our souls by living in a way that pleases Him. It's not about being perfect, it's about allowing the perfect Christ to live in and through us so the lost can find Him also. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” - Matthew 5:16.

Unless you have been living isolated in a cave somewhere you can see the world is a mess, not only are these psycho ISIS people killing people everywhere they go, religions are changing the image of God, immorality and sinful lifestyles are dominant, more people than ever are living in poverty, and if that was not bad enough, the weather is out of control. The signs and wonders of Christ's return are unfolding as we speak, we who are saved need to be telling as many as we can before it's too late. After all of God's people are gathered and safe from harm, God will send one last judgment upon the earth, seven plagues that will destroy it completely. Jesus reveals something amazing to John, all who have been saved by the blood of Christ singing and praising God.

And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God. And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God. And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.” - Revelation 15:1-4.

Great and marvellous are thy works,” To read these passages to an unsaved soul, and perhaps some who are saved, God could not possibly bring such judgment upon the earth. But think about this, God is the Creator of everything, the devil took it upon himself to turn everything He made into something evil, and while God let him have his glory for a while, it and he will come to an end, along with those who followed hims ways. While God is merciful and gracious, He is also a just God, meaning He gives all the same opportunity. God will not save those who reject Him, do not believe in Him, made themselves a god, deceived His people, and above all, have not received His Son as their Saviour. “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.” - 1 Corinthians 6:9-11.

God sends the seven angles with the vials containing the seven plagues and they begin to pour each vial upon the earth. It is then that John sees three evil spirits come from the devils mouth in one last attempt to fight God.
And I saw three unclean spirits like frogs come out of the mouth of the dragon, and out of the mouth of the beast, and out of the mouth of the false prophet. For they are the spirits of devils, working miracles, which go forth unto the kings of the earth and of the whole world, to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty. Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame. And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon. And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done.” - Revelation 16:13-17.

It is done.” Just as Jesus on the cross proclaimed that what He came here to accomplish was finished, God will proclaim that He has once and for all put an end to the devil and all the sin he brought with him upon the earth. Jesus reminds His people that He is coming, we are expected to be ready for His sudden return, and to always be watching for Him. It is important that we who are saved live in a way that is pleasing to God, it may seem as though He will not return for a while, but things happen quickly, and those who are caught not living right will be judged accordingly. Being saved does not exempt us from facing judgment, we too will be accountable for what we did after we are saved, but it does by the mercies and grace of God save us from being destroyed along with the devil and the earth. “For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” - Romans 14:11,12.

John receives another vision, a woman clothed in purple and scarlet with a name on her forehead, MYSTERY BABYLON THE GREAT, THE MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH, and a beast, an angel explains this vision to John. “The beast that thou sawest was, and is not; and shall ascend out of the bottomless pit, and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world, when they behold the beast that was, and is not, and yet is. And here is the mind which hath wisdom. The seven heads are seven mountains, on which the woman sitteth. And there are seven kings: five are fallen, and one is, and the other is not yet come; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space. And the beast that was, and is not, even he is the eighth, and is of the seven, and goeth into perdition. For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled. And the woman which thou sawest is that great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.” - Revelation 17:8-11,17,18.

whose names were not written in the book of life from the foundation of the world,” These are those who are not saved and will be here after the rapture and resurrection of the saved. Babylon the great, is the God-defying forces in politics and religion that are already beginning to control the world. This apostate federation of churches and world religions will give full support to a one-world political and economic system that will be ruled by the Antichrist. Eventually, this false super church will fiercely oppose the true Christ, but He, the devil, and all who follow him will be cast into the lake of fire. Many so called Christian religions try to hide and ignore theses facts, but it's happening right before their eyes. We are given ample warnings to understand what is happening and about to come, and if our names are not written in the Lamb's book of life, we will not be saved from any of it.

For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.” - John 5:22-25.

Today's Prayer: God, Thank You for sending Your Son to save me, He is the truth, life, and only way to be saved from hell and the destruction of the world. How You entrusted me to know that is beyond me, but I am grateful, thankful, and blessed to be one of Your children. Lord, keep me faithful and strong in Your Word, lead me and guide me in Your truths, and let me not fall into the deception of those working for the Antichrist. Give me Your power to live in obedience to Your commands, and let me be ready for the day He returns. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.

Monday, December 28, 2015

God's Plan From The Beginning

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Monday, December 28, 2015
Chapters: Revelation 12-14
Message Title: God's Plan From The Beginning

Hello My Friend,

I have been watching this old TV program, everyone from government officials to criminals fighting over money and power. It got me thinking how fast a person would turn on you given the right motivation and circumstances. Do not think that someone who has wronged you did it on impulse, it was a long, thought out plan. In fact, most criminal and psychotic acts are well planned out, sometimes for years before executed. Not only do the wicked plan things, so do the righteous. When God created the heavens and earth He had a plan from the beginning, of course, He knew what was going to happen the second He created the angels and man, but went through with it anyway. Why? To separate those who truly believe and want to worship Him from those who do not.

When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:” - Matthew 25:31-34,41.

prepared for the devil and his angels:” Yep, hell was originally created for the devil and his angels. Did you ever wonder how sin got started and passed down to all of us? It began in heaven with the devil. God created the earth in six days all was well in the world, that was until Eve got tempted by the devil, bringing sin and death to all of us. There was a battle in heaven, a war like no other. John has been seeing visions that foretell what will happen just before, during, and after Christ returns, but this time he sees exactly how it all began.

And there appeared another wonder in heaven; and behold a great red dragon, having seven heads and ten horns, and seven crowns upon his heads. And there was war in heaven: Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon fought and his angels, And prevailed not; neither was their place found any more in heaven. And the great dragon was cast out, that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world: he was cast out into the earth, and his angels were cast out with him. And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night. And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death. Therefore rejoice, ye heavens, and ye that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.” - Revelation 12:3,7-12.

And the great dragon was cast out,” The devil, also known as archangel Lucifer, turned on God as he wanted to be more powerful than Him. When he was cast out of heaven he devised a plan to destroy God's most precious creation. God knew the devil would bring sin and death to man, but He also had a plan to save them the second Adam and Eve bit into that forbidden fruit. “And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel.” - Genesis 3:15. God gives them hope concerning Christ, who would put an end to the enmity (hatred) between God and man. One, He would be the seed of the woman. Two, His suffering and death would allow the devil to bring suffering upon us, but His victory by resurrecting would bring suffering upon the devil, bringing redemption and eternal life to all who believe. “For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)” - Romans 5:17.

The devil probably did not realize the extent of God's plan when He said he would suffer through the womans seed, but when Christ resurrected He knew his fate and he is going to try everything to prolong his life and take as many souls with him as he can.

And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast. And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him? And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” - Revelation 13:3-8,17.

and all the world wondered after the beast.” Just as everyone has a plan, so does the devil, and he will take millions of people with him by deceiving them. Does he care that he is sending multitudes to a pitch dark, lake of fiery torment? No, he wants all of God's creation to suffer. While the devil certainly cannot create life, he can take a life that God has created and use it for evil. Jesus reveals to John who the devil will use to get his revenge before his life ends. He is going to get it by using an evil, and just as God has marked the foreheads of those who are His, this beast will mark the foreheads of those who are his, and they too will suffer with the devil.

And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters. And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication. And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:” - Revelation 14:6-10.

Fear God, and give glory to him;” While we cannot know the hour that any of this will take place, we can be ready, and we can be part of God's plan. The only way we can do this is by putting on the full armor of God. Only those who have the full armor of God can be strong enough to know the truth from the lies and follow God's plan for our lives. “Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 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 6:11-13. Praise God!

Today's Prayer: God, Thank You for giving us a heads up and explanation of all the scary and wicked things that are coming to pass. We can never know the hour in which Your Son returns, but we can be prepared and ready for that day. Lord, lead us and guide us, keep us in Your Word, put Your armor upon us to keep us from being tempted of the devil. Let us be strong, and never forget Your precious promise to save those with mark of Your Son's blood upon them. We can do little on our own, but can do all things through Christ. In Jesus' name, Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.

Sunday, December 27, 2015

The Free Will Of A Hard Heart

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Sunday, December 27, 2015
Chapters: Revelation 9-11
Message Title: The Free Will Of A Hard Heart

Hello My Friend,

Probably one of the most asked questions by those who either reject Christ or have walk away from Him is, how can a loving God send people to hell or even allow all the evil in the world in the first place? There is only one answer to this question, free will. Free will is the ability to choose what we believe and how we respond to the knowledge of God. That's right, we are all given a choice not only in whether or not we even believe in God, but how we choose to live our lives. Does God know which path we take? He sure does, and a hard heart is the reason why we choose a wicked path over a righteous one, which God allows and will use to His advantage.

For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;” - Romans 1:26-28.

When God created the earth, He didn't stop there, He created heaven and the angels too, just like we have free will they do also. No one is exempt from judgment, that includes Satan, who also had a choice and chose to try and upstage God. Jesus continues to give John visions of the tribulation that will take place before He returns and judgment of the unbelievers begins, As the fifth trumpet sounds, hell literally breaks loose as the bottomless pit opens, and evil like you have never seen emerges from it.

And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit. And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power. And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads. And to them it was given that they should not kill them, but that they should be tormented five months: and their torment was as the torment of a scorpion, when he striketh a man. And in those days shall men seek death, and shall not find it; and shall desire to die, and death shall flee from them. And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue is Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath his name Apollyon.” - Revelation 9:2-6,11.

And they had a king over them, which is the angel of the bottomless pit,” Abaddon or Apollyon means destroyer, imagine a torment so severe that the only escape is death, and even that it is forbidden? These powerful beasts had no power to destroy those who have the seal of God on their foreheads. It is the wonderful, and amazing gifts of God's mercy and grace that keeps the destroyer from taking a single soul who has this mark, no matter how many stupid things they do after being saved. In fact, God never gives up on seeing His creation receive His Son, but there is nothing He can do to save a soul that never received Him before they died physically. “He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” - Revelation 21:7,8.

Did you ever notice the lengths the world goes to try and save the earth? We have the evolutionists, spiritualists, environmentalists, and the wackos preparing for the Apocalypse. Too bad they are choosing to believe all this nonsense rather than the truth. Another mighty angel comes down from heaven, clothed in a cloud, and having a rainbow upon his head, this was no ordinary angel, this was Christ Himself, and He was holding a little book.

And the angel which I saw stand upon the sea and upon the earth lifted up his hand to heaven, And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are, and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, that there should be time no longer: But in the days of the voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets. And the voice which I heard from heaven spake unto me again, and said, Go and take the little book which is open in the hand of the angel which standeth upon the sea and upon the earth. And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book. And he said unto me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey. And I took the little book out of the angel's hand, and ate it up; and it was in my mouth sweet as honey: and as soon as I had eaten it, my belly was bitter.” - Revelation 10:5-10.

Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey.” This is an illustration of those who hear the Gospel, but reject it. God's word is sweet, but it is bitter to those who refuse to accept it as it is. That little book contained the very message that would save a soul from facing something so horrible that Jesus would instruct John to omit it in His book. The Gospel, the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, it's simple, and the only thing that leads the simple to the gift of eternal life. It's words are sweet to the soul who believes, but bitter to those who do not. “The full soul loatheth an honeycomb; but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet. Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.” - Proverbs 27:7,20.

During the tribulation, and when most of the earth will be in chaos, God will send two messengers to earth to give one final warning of repentance before total destruction. “These have power to shut heaven, that it rain not in the days of their prophecy: and have power over waters to turn them to blood, and to smite the earth with all plagues, as often as they will. And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth out of the bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall overcome them, and kill them. And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city, which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also our Lord was crucified. And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves. And they that dwell upon the earth shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts one to another; because these two prophets tormented them that dwelt on the earth. And after three days and an half the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and they stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.” - Revelation 11:6-11.

and great fear fell upon them which saw them.” Contrary to what many say, John was the last prophet to walk the earth. There are however, many messengers, those who are witnesses and of how receiving Christ turned them into someone more like Him. These two messengers will be rejected, killed right in the streets, and left there where a great celebration will take place. Three days later these men will be resurrected, and great fear will come upon them. This is when Christ will finally take His throne. The time is fast approaching when all these judgments will come to pass. Ignorance will not save anyone, and neither will a hard heart. Those who receive Christ as Their Saviour need not fear any of this, but do need to set the record straight about His coming before it's too late. “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.” -John 5:24,28,29.

Today's Prayer: God, As each year passes, it's a blessing and a curse to see You do so many things in our lives as we see the fall of mankind. To think that it is only the beginning of sorrows is terrifying, but thank You for giving us a heads up on this and for giving us a way to escape. Lord, although things get crazy and life can give some unwanted gifts, keep my eyes on You, keep me reminded of a wonderful, sin free, sorrow free, pain free, life awaiting me as I endure all with You by my side. Let me not forget that You are greatest gift I ever receive, and keep me in Your grace so that when I am not in Your will I can get back on the right path. Thank You, for giving me the power and strength to endure them all, and for loving me and not giving up on me when I have no gratitude. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.

Saturday, December 26, 2015

Surviving the Tribulation

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Saturday, December 26, 2015
Chapters: Revelation 6-8
Message Title: Surviving the Tribulation

Hello My Friend,

You do not have to know Jesus to know that there is something going on in the world today, natural disasters, crazy people, wicked and corrupt behavior, not to mention the lack of respect and discipline the youth have. Those of us who walk with Jesus daily cannot help, but question whether or not we are getting closer to His return and the tribulation beginning. Well, let me tell you, every day is one day closer, and as Christians, there is no better time for us to step it up and be that example and witness the world needs to see Jesus before it's too late. “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. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?” - 2 Peter 3:10-12.

It was around 534 BC that Daniel saw visions similar to what John is seeing, it was then that God showed him the things that would come to pass during the tribulation, which is just before Jesus will return to earth to reign for a thousand years before final judgment takes place. John watches as Jesus opens each of the seven seals from the book, revealing the contents that would plague and destroy the earth little by little. The sixth seal revealed something much different than the rest, it showed the sate of the people.

And I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder, one of the four beasts saying, Come and see. And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; And the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?” - Revelation 6:1,12-17.

hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;” Many people think their power and or position in the world will save them from judgment, but they are in for a shock, and huge awakening. By the way, none of these proud egos went to the Lamb, they all knew He was capable of saving them, yet they were too afraid to receive Him. Who will be able to stand? Only those who have applied the shed blood of the Lamb upon their souls. There is no respect of persons with God, position, rank, title, and honor on earth mean absolutely nothing to God, it will not save us from death, hell, or any of the terrible things about to come in this world. The only way to be saved from it all is by believing in and receiving Christ as your Saviour. “For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities.” - 2 Peter 2:4,9,10.

The plagues upon the earth are just the beginning, now Jesus reveals the destruction of the earth. When the tribulation will begin and how long it will last is unknown, but not even death could save us. Those who are saved will either be resurrected or raptured off the earth and brought to safety. In the midst of His revealing the contents of the seals, Jesus reveals who will have the seal of God that will save us.

And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads. And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel. After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen.” - Revelation 7:1-4,9-12.

till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads.” The sealed servants of our God are those who have received Christ as their Saviour before their physical death or His return. We can thank God that He will not return until the very last soul to believe in and receive Him is saved. While it may seem as though we are fast approaching the tribulation, it is not coming yet, unfortunately it is going to get worse, what we are witnessing is just the beginning of what is to come, including the Antichrist. “For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be earthquakes in divers places, and there shall be famines and troubles: these are the beginnings of sorrows. But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.” - Mark 13:6-8,24-26.

Upon opening the seventh seal there was silence in heaven for half an hour, then follows a vision of seven angels, who stood before God, who had seven trumpets given to them. “And when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half an hour. And I saw the seven angels which stood before God; and to them were given seven trumpets. And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel's hand. And the angel took the censer, and filled it with fire of the altar, and cast it into the earth: and there were voices, and thunderings, and lightnings, and an earthquake.” - Revelation 8:1-5.

“that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints” God's saints are not those who seem to be perfect and have made such a great impression upon man that they were declared a saint by man after they died, His saints are those who are saved. While we are to be an example and witness of Jesus in us, that is not what makes us a saint, receiving Him as our Saviour does that, but what we do to reveal Him in us is what counts not what we do to please man. God's judgment and the signs of Jesus returning will be clearly seen as we see more apostasy, wars, natural disasters, famines, hatred, immorality, and death. We who are saved may have to face much of our own tribulations due to the world getting worse, but we have much to look forward to as we endure.

Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door. Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.” - James 5:7-11.

Today's Prayer: Jesus, The love that You have for us is just astounding, those who believe in and receive You will never fully understand how You willfully gave Your life to save us not only from death, but the destruction of the world, but we do understand that we are redeemed by Your precious blood. You were born to die for us, but You rose up in victory and know because of that that we will too. When we consider the depth of Your love let us be more determined to be faithful to You until You return and bring us to safety. Help us to endure the tribulation that comes our way by keeping our eyes on You, knowing that we will have eternal life with You. In your name, Jesus. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.

Friday, December 25, 2015

The Christ Of Christmas

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Friday, December 25, 2015
Chapters: Revelation 3-5
Message Title: The Christ Of Christmas

Hello My Friend,

Did you ever watch Santa Claus Is Coming To Town? It's a classic Christmas cartoon that I have watched since I was little. When Nicholas decided he could only deliver Christmas gifts once a year, he chose the holiest day of the year, Christmas Eve. Now, I am not one of those people who tell you that Santa is Satan, because he is not, nor that you shouldn't celebrate Christmas because it's a pagan holiday. That's ridiculous, if anyone ever took the time to learn who Nicholas was, they would see that he was an ordinary Christian man, who gave gifts to orphans on Christmas Eve (early Christmas morning). As we celebrate Christmas, let us not forget the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ. After all, there would not be a Christmas if not for Christ. “And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” - Luke 2:10-12.

I always find it ironic that we study the end of the world during a time that celebrates the birth of the only man who could save us from the end of the world, but think about this, it is His death that was more important than His birth. Now, as Jesus continues telling John what to write in His letters to the seven churches of Asia, He has something quite different to say to the church in Philadelphia. It was seated between the borders of Mysia and Lydia, a very small church, it would probably seem weak and worthless as far as the world was concerned, but Jesus commended them for their strength, gave them an assurance that their labor was not in vain, but also gave them a warning.

And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee. Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name.” - Revelation 3:7-12.

I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation,” As the days draw closer of Christ returning, you see, the devil is working overtime to get as many Christians as he can diverted away from the truth and caught up in the world. It is only by the power of Christ in us and walking with Him daily that we can overcome his temptations. We fall into temptation when we take our eyes off Christ. “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.” - James 2:12-15.

There are many churches that talk about Christ and boast of all they do for God and people, but they are dead, meaning they are living by the Gospel or teaching it. Very few people who are brought up in false religion will receive Christ because they are trusting in what their religion tells them, but make no mistake, every knee will bow. After Jesus instructs John what to write to the churches, He gave him another vision.

And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and there was a rainbow round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald. And round about the throne were four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold. And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and there were seven lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God. And before the throne there was a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne, and round about the throne, were four beasts full of eyes before and behind. And the first beast was like a lion, and the second beast like a calf, and the third beast had a face as a man, and the fourth beast was like a flying eagle.” - Revelation 4:4-7.

And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone:” This is of course Jesus. Jasper, a stone of dazzling brilliance and colors, Sardine (sardius) stone, a stone of a blood-red color, these represent the splendor, holiness, judgments, and sacrifices of the only God and King, Jesus Christ. The rainbow, of course represents the covenant of promise which God has made with all His people. The emerald, represents the reviving and refreshing nature of the new covenant. Twenty-four seats around the throne, were filled with twenty-four elders, representing the entire church of God. Their sitting around the throne represents the honor, rest, and enjoyment they have in being near Him. They were clothed in white, the color of righteousness, in which all His saints will be adorned. They also had on their heads crowns of gold, signifying the crown of life they received for their obedience to receiving Him. Christians will face a lot of trials over the years, but they too will receive a crown. “Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” - 2 Timothy 4:8.

All who remain faithful to Jesus no matter what they face, and this includes times when all we have is the strength to say "Help Me, Jesus" can find comfort and peace as they patiently await for things to come to pass. Jesus will come in the blink of an eye and all whom have put their faith and trust in Him will be saved from all the deceitfulness and wickedness that Satan is going to place upon the people of the world. Then John sees something even more amazing, a book, a book that no one in heaven or earth can open, except Jesus Christ.

And I saw in the right hand of him that sat on the throne a book written within and on the backside, sealed with seven seals. And I saw a strong angel proclaiming with a loud voice, Who is worthy to open the book, and to loose the seals thereof? And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither to look thereon. And I wept much, because no man was found worthy to open and to read the book, neither to look thereon. And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof. And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.” - Revelation 5:1-5,8-10.

behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda,” Christ is the only one worthy to open the book that controls the fate of all mankind. He receives the praises of the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders, and afterwards an innumerable multitude of His people acknowledging they were redeemed through His blood. The whole creation, worshiped Him, giving honor, glory, and power to God and the Lamb for ever. One day, every knee will bow and confess Jesus as King, but only those who are redeemed with His blood will sing a new song. “For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” - Romans 14:11,12.

Today's Prayer: God, Every where we go people are always trying to get us to doubt Your Son or compromise our living for You in order to suit their needs. Lord, give us the strength to endure these trials and all the circumstances we face as we live our lives for You, and give us Your wisdom and power to endure temptations and those trying to divert us away from You. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you, and Merry Christmas
Christina

Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.

Being A Witness For Christ

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Thursday, December 24, 2015
Chapters: Revelation 1-2
Message Title: Being A Witness For Christ

Hello My Friend,

The Book of Revelation is the twenty-seventh book of the New Testament, the sixty-sixth and final book of the Bible and contains twenty-two chapters. The author of the book is the Apostle John and it was written to the seven churches in Asia and to all believers. The purpose of the book was to give assurance of Christ's return and warn of His judgment. What we are to learn from the book is that God always does what He says, judgment is coming, and only those who's names are are written in the Book of life will endure it. “He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” - Revelation 21:7,8.

As we come to the end of the year we all have things we would like to have or not have done, which is great that we have a new year and new outlook to look forward to, but if we do not work on the issues we have it's going to be another year of the same thing. And as Christians, even serving God can become mundane and dull. Life in general can literally suck the life out of doing things for God, we may be going through the motions, but we are not really into it. This can cause us to leave our first love, which is Christ. The word revelation means the act of revealing or disclosing, the Book of Revelation is God revealing His final purpose for all mankind. One Sunday morning as John was praying Jesus appeared, literally, in a vision, as clear as the day, Jesus asks him to write down what He had to say and send it to the seven churches in Asia.

The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand. John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne; And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,” - Revelation 1:1-5.

and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne;” These are not actually seven spirits, but the infinite perfect Spirit of God, in whom there is a diversity of gifts and operations. He is before the throne as God made, so He governs, all things by His Spirit. The number seven is sacred, it indicates fullness, perfection, and is also the symbol of rest. I can understand that reading the Book of Revelation can be a bit overwhelming, even before I dedicated my life to Christ I use to be afraid to read the book because I feared the end of the world. However, as I grew in the Lord I learned that many of my fears I had were false, I was only listening to what people said rather than what Jesus says will happen when He returns. We are truly blessed to have the truth before us, and while we may not understand everything, we need not fear because we have Jesus on our side. “And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.” - John 10:28.

Churches are not what hold the Spirit of God, it is the people who are saved that bring Him into those walls. They may have thousands of people in them, but if they do not have Christ, they are dead churches. As John continues to see the vision he hears a voice, he got so scared that he dropped to the floor. “And I turned to see the voice that spake with me. And being turned, I saw seven golden candlesticks; And in the midst of the seven candlesticks one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt about the paps with a golden girdle. And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am he that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be hereafter; The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches.” - Revelation 1:12,13,17-20.

I saw seven golden candlesticks;” These represent the seven churches that form the universal Church of Christ, all Christian churches have been formed by one of these seven. The stars represent the angels of the church, or the pastors. The pastor, bishop, or overseer, has the care over that flock, on him the entire congregation lies upon, and he will answer for all the souls he watched over at the judgment seat of Christ. “and have the keys of hell and of death.” As much as God loves every person He creates, He will not save all, and Christ has the keys to death and hell. When a person believes His Gospel and accepts Him as their Saviour, He locks the door of eternal death hell to that soul. Although they physically die (unless He returns before then), they will resurrect upon His returning and be live with Him forever. “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” - 1 Thessalonians 4:16,17.

At one time, the seven churches were healthy and prosperous, that had received letters from Peter and Paul. He first starts with the church of Ephesus, Ephesus was the influential capital city of Asia Minor (now Turkey) on the Aegean Sea, the Apostle Paul spent a lot of time there, as well as Peter and Timothy. The Ephesians were doing well at serving God, they studied the Bible and taught the right doctrine so well that they could call out a false prophet anywhere, but somehow they lost the zeal they had for Christ.

Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” - Revelation 2:1-5.

because thou hast left thy first love.” Thousands of people gather in churches baring the name of Christ, but not a mention of the Gospel is spoken. The most important thing we can do to serve God is telling the lost about Christ, and unless we are witnessing to others, we are going to lose sight of the meaning of why God has called us in the first place. Trust me, there is no better joy or satisfaction to our soul than seeing someone bow their head and asking Christ to save them. That's why it is important that we not only serve God, but keep the love of Christ shining in us by walking in His Spirit, and being that light that leads others to Him. “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” - Galatians 5:16,17,22,23.

Today's Prayer: God, You have given us the key to open the door to a life that is satisfying to the body, soul, and spirit. The key is Jesus Christ, and while we know we are saved just by believing in and accepting Him as our Saviour, no joy on earth comes more than being a witness for Him. As the circumstances in our lives drain us of that joy and keep us from our first love, they also drain us from the joy of life itself, even when serving You. Lord, touch every heart, comfort every grieving and battered soul, ease every worried mind, and give them the peace that only You can give. Give us the power to get back to being the light You need to bring others to Your Son as the day is quickly approaching for His return. In the name of Jesus I pray. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.