Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Saturday, May 15, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 11-13. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-15
Title: Bible Study: A Good Work in You
Just as surely as the Lord gives us an opportunity to accomplish something for His honor, obstacles will also appear to test our faith. It may be a financial situation that seems hopeless, a person that you just can not let go of, or simply a feeling of inadequacy to be able to accomplish the task. For some of us, not much opposition is needed before we feel there is no use in even trying and we give up all together. However, we have a great and powerful God on our side and regardless of how many times we stop, He will get us to fulfill the task He has called us to do, no matter how long it takes, even if that means years. God is faithful, patient, and well able to do a good work in you.
Early in his life, David recognized the sovereignty of God and the ineffectiveness of human ability, no matter how much we learn or how strong we become, there are some things that are just not in our power to be able to handle. This is where God comes in, He is the life force that gives us the power to overcome and reach beyond our human abilities to do what He has called for us to do. When David was just a teenager God anointed him to be the next king of Israel, after years of fighting and running for his life he was now prepared, able, and about to take on that position. “Then all Israel gathered themselves to David unto Hebron, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh. And moreover in time past, even when Saul was king, thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the LORD thy God said unto thee, Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be ruler over my people Israel. Therefore came all the elders of Israel to the king to Hebron; and David made a covenant with them in Hebron before the LORD; and they anointed David king over Israel, according to the word of the LORD by Samuel.” - I Chronicles 11:1-3. When one recognizes God's authority and yields to His will, then he will see that all personal influence and abilities of every kind are gifts of the sovereign God, bestowed lovingly by Him for rewards in heaven for all eternity. It meant waiting patiently many years and going through difficult circumstances, but the rewards for his faithfulness and obedience were about to pay off.
David continued to set up Israel in the way God directed him, even if that meant he had to deal with some people who he thought was his friends, but were against him in every way. “Now these are they that came to David to Ziklag, while he yet kept himself close because of Saul the son of Kish: and they were among the mighty men, helpers of the war....And of the Gadites there separated themselves unto David into the hold to the wilderness men of might, and men of war fit for the battle, that could handle shield and buckler, whose faces were like the faces of lions, and were as swift as the roes upon the mountains;...These are they that went over Jordan in the first month, when it had overflown all his banks; and they put to flight all them of the valleys, both toward the east, and toward the west. And there came of the children of Benjamin and Judah to the hold unto David. And David went out to meet them, and answered and said unto them, If ye be come peaceably unto me to help me, mine heart shall be knit unto you: but if ye be come to betray me to mine enemies, seeing there is no wrong in mine hands, the God of our fathers look thereon, and rebuke it. Then the spirit came upon Amasai, who was chief of the captains, and he said, Thine are we, David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse: peace, peace be unto thee, and peace be to thine helpers; for thy God helpeth thee. Then David received them, and made them captains of the band.” - I Chronicles 12:1,8,15-18. At first, the House of Israel was against David being king, in fact, they chose Saul's son to reign over them, while David reigned in Hebron. It was not until all of the House of Saul had been killed before they accepted David as king of all of Israel. However, he remained positive knowing that God was with him and would keep him safe. When the throne of Christ is set up in a soul, there is, or ought to be, great joy in that soul knowing that our provisions are made, not only here on earth, but for eternity in heaven and beyond as well. Happiness is in those who wisely perceive it to be their duty and interest, to submit to the Saviour Jesus Christ, at all times, not just when things are going well. Those who break through, and overcome in these attempts, will find an abundance of rewards.
We all have to remember one important thing, God is with us. Satan knows this, in fact, the stronger we become with God, the more Satan is trying to weaken us. Our strength comes from God and as long as we remain in His power, no one can knock us down, not even Satan. “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. God knows that there is a good work in you and He will not stop until He shows that to you. He is going to prepare you, test your faithfulness, test your patience and willingness to wait on Him to see things through and when He is ready, victory is won. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and your weekend.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
devotion@readytofollow.com
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Friday, May 14, 2010
Bible Study: God's Heritage 05.14.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Friday May 14, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 8-10. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-14
Title: Bible Study: God's Heritage
If your were to search out the history of your ancestors I am sure you would find out some pretty amazing things, maybe even some shameful things. Sometimes it is important to know were we came from, in the event of medical issues it helps to learn of what they had so we can be prepared and learn how to treat or prevent the same things from happening. Learning of our ancestors also gives us an insight into the lineage of where we came from, such as property or other things passed down through our inheritance. It would be interesting to see if we could trace our heritage all the way back to the Bible to see exactly which tribe we came from, whether it would have been an Israelite, an Ishamalite, an Egyptian, or somewhere in between, knowing our history can really explain a lot of things that we go through in the present. Regardless of what lineage we have come from, we are all a creation of God and He will accept anyone who accepts Him.
As we have read through the genealogy of the Israelites and beyond, one may question and wonder why these names are even written in the Bible, let alone in the Chronicle books. The word chronicle means history, a record that gives an account for events of the past. The Chronicle books record the history of Israel during the time that kings reigned until the country was taken over and the Jews were taken captive by the Babylonians. The Jews were given this record book to direct them when they returned out of captivity, back to Jerusalem. It is kind of like a person in the present narrating a story being told of days gone by. While the Israelites are in Babylon, this story is being told to the new generation of Jews that had been born while in captivity. “So all Israel were reckoned by genealogies; and, behold, they were written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah, who were carried away to Babylon for their transgression. Now the first inhabitants that dwelt in their possessions in their cities were, the Israelites, the priests, Levites, and the Nethinims.” - I Chronicles 9:1,2. The Nethinims were Temple servants, they were like janitors, a job that seems rather insignificant, but it was so important to God that He recorded them in the Bible. Their loyalty to God made them willing to work and to serve Him wherever they were need. They set an example for all of us who serve God in the smallest ways, from cleaning bathrooms to taking care of children in the nursery, every little thing we do to serve God shows Him our loyalty to Him and how important we are to Him.
After the Israelites 70-year captivity, which had been foretold by Jeremiah (see Jeremiah 25:11-12), King Cyrus offered them freedom to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple. Only a small minority of Israelites responded to the proclamation by Cyrus and left the comforts and safety of the new Persian kingdom to return to the rubble of Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple. However, all who did respond to the call became capable of the work God called them to do. "And Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pashur, the son of Malchijah, and Maasiai the son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer; And their brethren, heads of the house of their fathers, a thousand and seven hundred and threescore; very able men for the work of the service of the house of God." I Chronicles 9:12-13. Every child of God has a place in God's plan and is needed. Regardless of the seeming importance or insignificance of our abilities, they are a sacred trust from God. God does not expect the person who is given one skill to fulfill the responsibility of the person who has many skills, but though our skills may seem to be minimal, each one can do something as we make ourselves available to Him.
The Chronicles were meant to encourage new loyalty among the Israelites as well as all the people of God. It also gives an account to the Bible giving two insights into Israel from the time David became king to their captivity four hundred and fifty years later, proving that although God inspired forty different men over fifteen hundred years to write His Word, it remained in unity with one another. “But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” - II Timothy 3:14-17. We are so blessed with the privilege to be able to influence others to become followers of Christ and when we choose to use our abilities for His glory, especially by being an example to others, we will never need to fear our future or where we are in our heritage because we are not a part of God's heritage. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and your weekend, I apologize for the late post today.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
devotion@readytofollow.com
Today is Friday May 14, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 8-10. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-14
Title: Bible Study: God's Heritage
If your were to search out the history of your ancestors I am sure you would find out some pretty amazing things, maybe even some shameful things. Sometimes it is important to know were we came from, in the event of medical issues it helps to learn of what they had so we can be prepared and learn how to treat or prevent the same things from happening. Learning of our ancestors also gives us an insight into the lineage of where we came from, such as property or other things passed down through our inheritance. It would be interesting to see if we could trace our heritage all the way back to the Bible to see exactly which tribe we came from, whether it would have been an Israelite, an Ishamalite, an Egyptian, or somewhere in between, knowing our history can really explain a lot of things that we go through in the present. Regardless of what lineage we have come from, we are all a creation of God and He will accept anyone who accepts Him.
As we have read through the genealogy of the Israelites and beyond, one may question and wonder why these names are even written in the Bible, let alone in the Chronicle books. The word chronicle means history, a record that gives an account for events of the past. The Chronicle books record the history of Israel during the time that kings reigned until the country was taken over and the Jews were taken captive by the Babylonians. The Jews were given this record book to direct them when they returned out of captivity, back to Jerusalem. It is kind of like a person in the present narrating a story being told of days gone by. While the Israelites are in Babylon, this story is being told to the new generation of Jews that had been born while in captivity. “So all Israel were reckoned by genealogies; and, behold, they were written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah, who were carried away to Babylon for their transgression. Now the first inhabitants that dwelt in their possessions in their cities were, the Israelites, the priests, Levites, and the Nethinims.” - I Chronicles 9:1,2. The Nethinims were Temple servants, they were like janitors, a job that seems rather insignificant, but it was so important to God that He recorded them in the Bible. Their loyalty to God made them willing to work and to serve Him wherever they were need. They set an example for all of us who serve God in the smallest ways, from cleaning bathrooms to taking care of children in the nursery, every little thing we do to serve God shows Him our loyalty to Him and how important we are to Him.
After the Israelites 70-year captivity, which had been foretold by Jeremiah (see Jeremiah 25:11-12), King Cyrus offered them freedom to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple. Only a small minority of Israelites responded to the proclamation by Cyrus and left the comforts and safety of the new Persian kingdom to return to the rubble of Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple. However, all who did respond to the call became capable of the work God called them to do. "And Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pashur, the son of Malchijah, and Maasiai the son of Adiel, the son of Jahzerah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Meshillemith, the son of Immer; And their brethren, heads of the house of their fathers, a thousand and seven hundred and threescore; very able men for the work of the service of the house of God." I Chronicles 9:12-13. Every child of God has a place in God's plan and is needed. Regardless of the seeming importance or insignificance of our abilities, they are a sacred trust from God. God does not expect the person who is given one skill to fulfill the responsibility of the person who has many skills, but though our skills may seem to be minimal, each one can do something as we make ourselves available to Him.
The Chronicles were meant to encourage new loyalty among the Israelites as well as all the people of God. It also gives an account to the Bible giving two insights into Israel from the time David became king to their captivity four hundred and fifty years later, proving that although God inspired forty different men over fifteen hundred years to write His Word, it remained in unity with one another. “But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” - II Timothy 3:14-17. We are so blessed with the privilege to be able to influence others to become followers of Christ and when we choose to use our abilities for His glory, especially by being an example to others, we will never need to fear our future or where we are in our heritage because we are not a part of God's heritage. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and your weekend, I apologize for the late post today.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
devotion@readytofollow.com
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Bible Study: A Peculiar Child of God 05.13.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Thursday May 13, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 6-7. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-13
Title: Bible Study: A Peculiar Child of God
God's people have always been known as peculiar people, while the world thinks that being peculiar means that we are strange, wacky, or weird, in fact, you would think that we had the plague the way some people act. However, in God's eyes we are His peculiar people, we do stand out, and we are special, eccentric, and exclusive, privileged people belonging to God. We may have all been born with free will, but God has already chosen who He ordains in His family. With that in mind we should all be honored to be a peculiar child of God.
The long and seemingly uninteresting genealogy in these chapters reveals that God does not look on mankind as just a multitude of human beings who populate the earth. He created all for a reason and a purpose, even Satan. Although all the Israelites were children of God and were to obey and follow His commands if they wanted to see His blessings, the Levites were ordained as special people who tended to the work of the Tabernacle, then in the Temple, among them were the priests and high priests, only the high priests were allowed to take the sacrifices and place them on the altar for the atonement of the peoples sins. High priests only came from descendents of Aaron. “The sons of Levi; Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. And the sons of Kohath; Amram, Izhar, and Hebron, and Uzziel. And the children of Amram; Aaron, and Moses, and Miriam. The sons also of Aaron; Nadab, and Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar.” - I Chronicles 6:1-3. The name of every individual priest and Levite, along with the family and tribe he belonged to, was carefully registered in this record book. In gratitude for their spiritual leadership, the other tribes were given the responsibility of sustaining the Levites who lived within their communities through their tithes and offerings. Aaron, Eleazar, and Ithamar were devoted to their calling as priests, but Aaron's two oldest sons Nadab and Abihu were struck dead when they ignored Commandments of God. This brings up a point that one may have been born into a godly home, but it does not mean that they will all live for God. It all comes down to who we allow ourselves to get around as we get older. We are peculiar people so that means we are to avoid associating ourselves with those who are not nor have any intention of serving God. Even some Christians can take us in the wrong direction so it is important that we get around people who are a godly influence and not a worldly influence.
Now, the Spirit of God calls ministers to their work, without any limit as to the families they came from and then, as now, though believers and ministers may be very useful to the church, none, but our great High Priest Jesus Christ can make an atonement for our sin, nor can any be accepted, but through His atonement. “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” - Hebrew 4:12-16.
It should be of little consequence to us whether or not we are used of God in a spectacular work. The deception of our generation is that we are prone to measure God's approval in light of sensational success. However, the person who satisfies God is one who is loyal to Christ and remains faithful to Him even during the toughest trials in our lives. “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; Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.” - I Peter 2:9-12. By God's great mercy we can all be children of God. We are children of God and it is time that all Christians thank and honor God by remaining loyal to Him. We are a peculiar people and God wants us to be seen as that, the more we show the world how blessed we are to be children of God the more it will get others to see that they too can be blessed by committing their lives to God. That's right, you are a peculiar person, a special, one of a kind person, that God Himself has chosen to be a part of His family. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and enjoy the rest of the week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
devotion@readytofollow.com
Today is Thursday May 13, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 6-7. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-13
Title: Bible Study: A Peculiar Child of God
God's people have always been known as peculiar people, while the world thinks that being peculiar means that we are strange, wacky, or weird, in fact, you would think that we had the plague the way some people act. However, in God's eyes we are His peculiar people, we do stand out, and we are special, eccentric, and exclusive, privileged people belonging to God. We may have all been born with free will, but God has already chosen who He ordains in His family. With that in mind we should all be honored to be a peculiar child of God.
The long and seemingly uninteresting genealogy in these chapters reveals that God does not look on mankind as just a multitude of human beings who populate the earth. He created all for a reason and a purpose, even Satan. Although all the Israelites were children of God and were to obey and follow His commands if they wanted to see His blessings, the Levites were ordained as special people who tended to the work of the Tabernacle, then in the Temple, among them were the priests and high priests, only the high priests were allowed to take the sacrifices and place them on the altar for the atonement of the peoples sins. High priests only came from descendents of Aaron. “The sons of Levi; Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. And the sons of Kohath; Amram, Izhar, and Hebron, and Uzziel. And the children of Amram; Aaron, and Moses, and Miriam. The sons also of Aaron; Nadab, and Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar.” - I Chronicles 6:1-3. The name of every individual priest and Levite, along with the family and tribe he belonged to, was carefully registered in this record book. In gratitude for their spiritual leadership, the other tribes were given the responsibility of sustaining the Levites who lived within their communities through their tithes and offerings. Aaron, Eleazar, and Ithamar were devoted to their calling as priests, but Aaron's two oldest sons Nadab and Abihu were struck dead when they ignored Commandments of God. This brings up a point that one may have been born into a godly home, but it does not mean that they will all live for God. It all comes down to who we allow ourselves to get around as we get older. We are peculiar people so that means we are to avoid associating ourselves with those who are not nor have any intention of serving God. Even some Christians can take us in the wrong direction so it is important that we get around people who are a godly influence and not a worldly influence.
Now, the Spirit of God calls ministers to their work, without any limit as to the families they came from and then, as now, though believers and ministers may be very useful to the church, none, but our great High Priest Jesus Christ can make an atonement for our sin, nor can any be accepted, but through His atonement. “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” - Hebrew 4:12-16.
It should be of little consequence to us whether or not we are used of God in a spectacular work. The deception of our generation is that we are prone to measure God's approval in light of sensational success. However, the person who satisfies God is one who is loyal to Christ and remains faithful to Him even during the toughest trials in our lives. “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; Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.” - I Peter 2:9-12. By God's great mercy we can all be children of God. We are children of God and it is time that all Christians thank and honor God by remaining loyal to Him. We are a peculiar people and God wants us to be seen as that, the more we show the world how blessed we are to be children of God the more it will get others to see that they too can be blessed by committing their lives to God. That's right, you are a peculiar person, a special, one of a kind person, that God Himself has chosen to be a part of His family. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and enjoy the rest of the week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
devotion@readytofollow.com
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Bible Study: God's Guidance 05.12.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Wednesday May 12, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 3-5. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-12
Title: Bible Study: God's Guidance
The world rejoices at fame, fortune, and material things, the more you have, the more you are accepted, the less you have the more you are rejected. Christians rejoice in the life changing experience of serving God, the more you do for God, the more you have, and He never rejects you. Praise God! Sadly, many people will continue to search for things for self improvement, escaping the fact that God is what they need, including many Christians. I just saw on the news yesterday a story about a woman who was offering spiritual guidance to women who are struggling financially in the form of guardian angels, she was charging $60 a hour and prices went as far as $1000 for a hour to tell them that their guardian angels will help them if they acknowledge them. It is frustrating to see so many people continually making money off people who are desperate to find answers, peace and comfort in their time of sorrows. Let me tell you something, God's guidance is free and priceless. You do not have to pay money to find answers, peace, or comfort, you just call on Jesus and He is there. Of course, we all need fellowship and encouragement, but our true source of guidance comes from God and God alone.
Since He created the world, God has been guiding faithful men and women to lead blessed, prosperous lives. Of all the families of Israel, none were so illustrious as the family of David mainly due to the fact that from this family, as concerning the flesh, Christ was born. Further account is given of Judah, the most numerous and most famous of all the tribes. The most remarkable person in this chapter is Jabez, we are not told upon what account was more honorable than his brethren, but God makes an appoint to let us know that he was a praying man. “And Jabez was more honourable than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, Because I bare him with sorrow. And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.” - I Chronicles 4:9,10. Jabez prayed to the living and true God, who alone can hear and answer prayer. He resolved to devote himself entirely to God reassuring Him that if you bless me and keep me, do what you will with me, I will be at Your command and disposal for ever. People in the world will try and come up with a visual or scientific explanations for godly people receiving answered prayer, they fail to realize that God is proven fact and the only one who can truly answer prayer.
Without God's guidance we are not prepared to handle the battles that come our way, the tribe of Reuben preferred to live in the rich, fertile lands just outside the promised land, choosing what seemed would bring them success. “Now the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel, (for he was the firstborn; but forasmuch as he defiled his father's bed, his birthright was given unto the sons of Joseph the son of Israel: and the genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birthright. For Judah prevailed above his brethren, and of him came the chief ruler; but the birthright was Joseph's:)...And they transgressed against the God of their fathers, and went a whoring after the gods of the people of the land, whom God destroyed before them. And the God of Israel stirred up the spirit of Pul king of Assyria, and the spirit of Tilgathpilneser king of Assyria, and he carried them away, even the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, and brought them unto Halah, and Habor, and Hara, and to the river Gozan, unto this day.” - I Chronicles 5:1,2,25,26. With the river separating them from their kindred, the Reubenites were among the first tribes to be conquered and taken as slaves to Assyria. The number one reason why they never were captured first, they did not have God leading them. The Reubenites are an example of people who are so involved in the things of the world that God and His Word are not given first consideration. They are willing to settle for less than His best in order to receive material gain and satisfy their own ambitions and pleasures. How satisfying it is to yield oneself to God to be led onward in the path He has chosen. He uses the men and women who have prepared themselves to serve the Lord and when we let Him lead He will always bless us with the things we are in need of and even the things we desire.
It is time to let go of worldly self improvements and let God improve us from the inside out. The first step is by having Jesus in our lives, without Him nothing we do will have an effect on God. If we want to be led of God we need to be led by all of His Word, not just part of it. “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. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” - I John 5:12-15. If we have Jesus we have eternal life and that is the best gift we could ever receive from anyone. Once we have Jesus we do change from the inside out, the things of the world no longer are significant and because of that He will give us the desires of our heart. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and rest of your week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
devotion@readytofollow.com
Today is Wednesday May 12, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 3-5. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-12
Title: Bible Study: God's Guidance
The world rejoices at fame, fortune, and material things, the more you have, the more you are accepted, the less you have the more you are rejected. Christians rejoice in the life changing experience of serving God, the more you do for God, the more you have, and He never rejects you. Praise God! Sadly, many people will continue to search for things for self improvement, escaping the fact that God is what they need, including many Christians. I just saw on the news yesterday a story about a woman who was offering spiritual guidance to women who are struggling financially in the form of guardian angels, she was charging $60 a hour and prices went as far as $1000 for a hour to tell them that their guardian angels will help them if they acknowledge them. It is frustrating to see so many people continually making money off people who are desperate to find answers, peace and comfort in their time of sorrows. Let me tell you something, God's guidance is free and priceless. You do not have to pay money to find answers, peace, or comfort, you just call on Jesus and He is there. Of course, we all need fellowship and encouragement, but our true source of guidance comes from God and God alone.
Since He created the world, God has been guiding faithful men and women to lead blessed, prosperous lives. Of all the families of Israel, none were so illustrious as the family of David mainly due to the fact that from this family, as concerning the flesh, Christ was born. Further account is given of Judah, the most numerous and most famous of all the tribes. The most remarkable person in this chapter is Jabez, we are not told upon what account was more honorable than his brethren, but God makes an appoint to let us know that he was a praying man. “And Jabez was more honourable than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, Because I bare him with sorrow. And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.” - I Chronicles 4:9,10. Jabez prayed to the living and true God, who alone can hear and answer prayer. He resolved to devote himself entirely to God reassuring Him that if you bless me and keep me, do what you will with me, I will be at Your command and disposal for ever. People in the world will try and come up with a visual or scientific explanations for godly people receiving answered prayer, they fail to realize that God is proven fact and the only one who can truly answer prayer.
Without God's guidance we are not prepared to handle the battles that come our way, the tribe of Reuben preferred to live in the rich, fertile lands just outside the promised land, choosing what seemed would bring them success. “Now the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel, (for he was the firstborn; but forasmuch as he defiled his father's bed, his birthright was given unto the sons of Joseph the son of Israel: and the genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birthright. For Judah prevailed above his brethren, and of him came the chief ruler; but the birthright was Joseph's:)...And they transgressed against the God of their fathers, and went a whoring after the gods of the people of the land, whom God destroyed before them. And the God of Israel stirred up the spirit of Pul king of Assyria, and the spirit of Tilgathpilneser king of Assyria, and he carried them away, even the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, and brought them unto Halah, and Habor, and Hara, and to the river Gozan, unto this day.” - I Chronicles 5:1,2,25,26. With the river separating them from their kindred, the Reubenites were among the first tribes to be conquered and taken as slaves to Assyria. The number one reason why they never were captured first, they did not have God leading them. The Reubenites are an example of people who are so involved in the things of the world that God and His Word are not given first consideration. They are willing to settle for less than His best in order to receive material gain and satisfy their own ambitions and pleasures. How satisfying it is to yield oneself to God to be led onward in the path He has chosen. He uses the men and women who have prepared themselves to serve the Lord and when we let Him lead He will always bless us with the things we are in need of and even the things we desire.
It is time to let go of worldly self improvements and let God improve us from the inside out. The first step is by having Jesus in our lives, without Him nothing we do will have an effect on God. If we want to be led of God we need to be led by all of His Word, not just part of it. “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. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” - I John 5:12-15. If we have Jesus we have eternal life and that is the best gift we could ever receive from anyone. Once we have Jesus we do change from the inside out, the things of the world no longer are significant and because of that He will give us the desires of our heart. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and rest of your week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
devotion@readytofollow.com
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Bible Study: The Importance of Your Name 05.11.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Tuesday May 11, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 1-2. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-11
Title: Bible Study: The Importance of Your Name
The book of I Chronicles is the thirteenth book of the Old Testament/Bible and contains twenty-nine chapters. The author of the book is Ezra, the prophet. The purpose of the book was to record the religious history of Judah. What we are to learn from the book is that God blesses those who exalt Him. The Chronicles cover the same history as II Samuel, I and II Kings. However, the Chronicles focus on Judah and Temple Worship and the prophetic promises of the Messiah centered on them. Their primary purpose is to emphasize the importance of worship and having a right relationship with the three persons of God that make One Great God, God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Therefore, emphasis is made of the importance of the Law and Temple restorations which are associated with them.
You may not realize it, but you are a part of the genealogy of Christ, a special person chosen by God Himself to be a part of the Kingdom of God. He knew that you were going to choose Him and serve Him at the exact time and place of your earthly life, He chose you even before He created the earth. If you believe in God's only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, that He came to earth to shed His blood and die for your sins, then resurrected three days later then you are a part of Christ, a brother or sister and a part of God's family. All who accept God's Son as their Savior are written in the Book of Life and a part of the Kingdom of God. I Chronicles opens with the longest genealogical record in the Bible and covers about 4000 years before Christ, it lists the genealogy from Adam to the Israelites captivity into Babylon. It may first appear to be an unimportant list of names, but every name was important as it not only shows how the Israelites came about, it also explains the division of tribes all the way back to Noah, including where the Canaanites and Philistines originated. This ancient genealogy reveals the exact plan of our Creator in selecting the people whom He qualified to serve Him, beginning with Adam. “Adam, Sheth, Enosh, Kenan, Mahalaleel, Jered, Henoch, Methuselah, Lamech, Noah, Shem, Ham, and Japheth....And Abraham begat Isaac. The sons of Isaac; Esau and Israel.” - I Chronicles 1:1-4, 34. They were not all great men of faith like Noah and Abraham, but they were all needed. This genealogy was exceedingly important after the Israelites' captivity. The long list of genealogies was to encourage the Israelites, to realize how God foretold their return to Jerusalem. It showed how God continued to protect the family line of the coming Messiah, whose descent can be traced from Adam to Noah to Abraham and David.
The second chapter is devoted to the descendants of Judah because the promised Messiah would descend from this tribe. We are now come to the register of the children of Israel, that distinguished people, who were to dwell alone, and not be reckoned among the nations. “These are the sons of Israel; Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun, Dan, Joseph, and Benjamin, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher. The sons of Judah; Er, and Onan, and Shelah: which three were born unto him of the daughter of Shua the Canaanitess. And Er, the firstborn of Judah, was evil in the sight of the LORD; and he slew him. And Tamar his daughter in law bore him Pharez and Zerah. All the sons of Judah were five. The sons of Pharez; Hezron, and Hamul....The sons also of Hezron, that were born unto him; Jerahmeel, and Ram, and Chelubai. And Ram begat Amminadab; and Amminadab begat Nahshon, prince of the children of Judah; And Nahshon begat Salma, and Salma begat Boaz, And Boaz begat Obed, and Obed begat Jesse, 13And Jesse begat his firstborn Eliab, and Abinadab the second, and Shimma the third, Nethaneel the fourth, Raddai the fifth, Ozem the sixth, David the seventh: ” - I Chronicles 2:1-5,9-15. The tribes of Judah and Levi became the lineage of where the Lord, Jesus Christ would be born. Today, you no longer have to be of a special tribe to be a part of the family of God. Christian's who accept Jesus Christ become part of the genealogy of Christ. "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." -I Peter 2:9-10.
God decided who would be included in the genealogy of Christ. He is personally involved in every Christian's life, desiring to guide us through every detail. But He gave everyone a free will either to do His will or to follow the deception of the human mind. "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." -Proverbs 3:5-6. when Christ is Lord of our lives, we let Him direct our paths and He oversees every detail. You can be sure that things that happen to believers are never accidents, they are allowed by God. He is preparing us to be the people He created to accomplish the things that ordinary people can not. “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him. And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see: For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.” - Luke 10:19-24. There are many, especially Theological scholars who claim to know the Bible, yet the majority have no clue what the true word of God is. Why? Because Jesus chooses who He reveals the truth to, there is something strange about some people who carry PhD's or other forms of doctorate degrees, they are so smart yet they have no common sense. The simple things are passed up in the fight for proving, I know more than you do. The Pharisees were the most wisest, religious people of the New Testament, claiming to know God, yet failed to see right before their eyes that the truth was standing right in front of them. They witnessed something that we as Christians could have only dreamt about, they saw Jesus in the flesh before anyone else has and yet they were blind to the truth. We are blessed because we know the truth, Jesus Said, “blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” - John 20:29b.
As we prayerfully read all His Word, He continually reveals His will to us. Although we cannot understand many of the things that He brings into our lives, by faith we can be sure that all things work together for our own good and for His glory. "Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:26-28.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
devotion@readytofollow.com
Today is Tuesday May 11, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of I Chronicles, chapters 1-2. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-11
Title: Bible Study: The Importance of Your Name
The book of I Chronicles is the thirteenth book of the Old Testament/Bible and contains twenty-nine chapters. The author of the book is Ezra, the prophet. The purpose of the book was to record the religious history of Judah. What we are to learn from the book is that God blesses those who exalt Him. The Chronicles cover the same history as II Samuel, I and II Kings. However, the Chronicles focus on Judah and Temple Worship and the prophetic promises of the Messiah centered on them. Their primary purpose is to emphasize the importance of worship and having a right relationship with the three persons of God that make One Great God, God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Therefore, emphasis is made of the importance of the Law and Temple restorations which are associated with them.
You may not realize it, but you are a part of the genealogy of Christ, a special person chosen by God Himself to be a part of the Kingdom of God. He knew that you were going to choose Him and serve Him at the exact time and place of your earthly life, He chose you even before He created the earth. If you believe in God's only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, that He came to earth to shed His blood and die for your sins, then resurrected three days later then you are a part of Christ, a brother or sister and a part of God's family. All who accept God's Son as their Savior are written in the Book of Life and a part of the Kingdom of God. I Chronicles opens with the longest genealogical record in the Bible and covers about 4000 years before Christ, it lists the genealogy from Adam to the Israelites captivity into Babylon. It may first appear to be an unimportant list of names, but every name was important as it not only shows how the Israelites came about, it also explains the division of tribes all the way back to Noah, including where the Canaanites and Philistines originated. This ancient genealogy reveals the exact plan of our Creator in selecting the people whom He qualified to serve Him, beginning with Adam. “Adam, Sheth, Enosh, Kenan, Mahalaleel, Jered, Henoch, Methuselah, Lamech, Noah, Shem, Ham, and Japheth....And Abraham begat Isaac. The sons of Isaac; Esau and Israel.” - I Chronicles 1:1-4, 34. They were not all great men of faith like Noah and Abraham, but they were all needed. This genealogy was exceedingly important after the Israelites' captivity. The long list of genealogies was to encourage the Israelites, to realize how God foretold their return to Jerusalem. It showed how God continued to protect the family line of the coming Messiah, whose descent can be traced from Adam to Noah to Abraham and David.
The second chapter is devoted to the descendants of Judah because the promised Messiah would descend from this tribe. We are now come to the register of the children of Israel, that distinguished people, who were to dwell alone, and not be reckoned among the nations. “These are the sons of Israel; Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun, Dan, Joseph, and Benjamin, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher. The sons of Judah; Er, and Onan, and Shelah: which three were born unto him of the daughter of Shua the Canaanitess. And Er, the firstborn of Judah, was evil in the sight of the LORD; and he slew him. And Tamar his daughter in law bore him Pharez and Zerah. All the sons of Judah were five. The sons of Pharez; Hezron, and Hamul....The sons also of Hezron, that were born unto him; Jerahmeel, and Ram, and Chelubai. And Ram begat Amminadab; and Amminadab begat Nahshon, prince of the children of Judah; And Nahshon begat Salma, and Salma begat Boaz, And Boaz begat Obed, and Obed begat Jesse, 13And Jesse begat his firstborn Eliab, and Abinadab the second, and Shimma the third, Nethaneel the fourth, Raddai the fifth, Ozem the sixth, David the seventh: ” - I Chronicles 2:1-5,9-15. The tribes of Judah and Levi became the lineage of where the Lord, Jesus Christ would be born. Today, you no longer have to be of a special tribe to be a part of the family of God. Christian's who accept Jesus Christ become part of the genealogy of Christ. "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." -I Peter 2:9-10.
God decided who would be included in the genealogy of Christ. He is personally involved in every Christian's life, desiring to guide us through every detail. But He gave everyone a free will either to do His will or to follow the deception of the human mind. "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." -Proverbs 3:5-6. when Christ is Lord of our lives, we let Him direct our paths and He oversees every detail. You can be sure that things that happen to believers are never accidents, they are allowed by God. He is preparing us to be the people He created to accomplish the things that ordinary people can not. “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven. In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes: even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight. All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him. And he turned him unto his disciples, and said privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see: For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.” - Luke 10:19-24. There are many, especially Theological scholars who claim to know the Bible, yet the majority have no clue what the true word of God is. Why? Because Jesus chooses who He reveals the truth to, there is something strange about some people who carry PhD's or other forms of doctorate degrees, they are so smart yet they have no common sense. The simple things are passed up in the fight for proving, I know more than you do. The Pharisees were the most wisest, religious people of the New Testament, claiming to know God, yet failed to see right before their eyes that the truth was standing right in front of them. They witnessed something that we as Christians could have only dreamt about, they saw Jesus in the flesh before anyone else has and yet they were blind to the truth. We are blessed because we know the truth, Jesus Said, “blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” - John 20:29b.
As we prayerfully read all His Word, He continually reveals His will to us. Although we cannot understand many of the things that He brings into our lives, by faith we can be sure that all things work together for our own good and for His glory. "Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." - Romans 8:26-28.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
devotion@readytofollow.com
Monday, May 10, 2010
Bible Study: Heed The Warnings 05.10.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Monday May 10, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of II Kings, chapters 24-25. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-10
Title: Bible Study: Heed The Warnings
One thing about life is that we are never prepared for the unexpected, life goes on and everything is great then all of a sudden something happens and we are left to question why this is happening to me. Now, there are times when things happen and there is no reason other than God's reason, we just have to trust God's judgment in the matter and seek peace from Him and to get through it. However, many of these sudden events are an accumulation of things that one has done over the years or one thing done years ago that just caught up to them. For instance, a man committing adultery has a child with the mistress, years later the family is suffering because of this one sin. Although we are accountable for our own sins, people in our lives suffer the consequences of them as well. No one ever thinks about the consequences of their sin, what it not only does to them, but what it does to the rest of the family, even generations later. God may be a forgiving God, but He is not a gullible God and will give only so many warnings before His judgment comes. We need to heed the warnings now because God never goes back on His Word, His judgment is coming and all who do not know Him need to repent accept the fact that they will suffer for going against God. Ignorance does not save us from hell, only Jesus Christ does.
Josiah was one of the best kings in the more than four hundred and fifty year history of the monarchy. When Josiah heard of the destruction that would take place for the sins of his father Manasseh, he did everything he could to get Jerusalem back to being a God fearing nation. No matter what he did God had already made His decision and there was no changing His mind. The death of Josiah ended the prosperity of Judah, just three months after his death, the Southern Kingdom of Judah was defeated and in control of the Egyptians, then later on Babylon. “In his days Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up, and Jehoiakim became his servant three years: then he turned and rebelled against him. And the LORD sent against him bands of the Chaldees, and bands of the Syrians, and bands of the Moabites, and bands of the children of Ammon, and sent them against Judah to destroy it, according to the word of the LORD, which he spake by his servants the prophets. Surely at the commandment of the LORD came this upon Judah, to remove them out of his sight, for the sins of Manasseh, according to all that he did; And also for the innocent blood that he shed: for he filled Jerusalem with innocent blood; which the LORD would not pardon.” - II Kings 24:1-4. The bands were united nations joining with Nebuchadnezzar to defeat Judah, if Jehoiakim would have served the Lord, he would not have been servant to Nebuchadnezzar and He would not have allowed the destruction to continue. However, they continued to do evil in His sight, including killing priests in the Temple, therefore, He continued to allow Jerusalem to be destroyed. God will give us many chances to change our ways before He allows judgment to come upon us, but when He does, look out, He will remove anyone from His sight that will continue to sin, especially those who cause others to live in sin.
Three more kings reigned, all of them evil, the last king Zedekiah suffered the most of them all, “So they took the king, and brought him up to the king of Babylon to Riblah; and they gave judgment upon him. And they slew the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes, and put out the eyes of Zedekiah, and bound him with fetters of brass, and carried him to Babylon. And in the fifth month, on the seventh day of the month, which is the nineteenth year of king Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, came Nebuzaradan, captain of the guard, a servant of the king of Babylon, unto Jerusalem: And he burnt the house of the LORD, and the king's house, and all the houses of Jerusalem, and every great man's house burnt he with fire. And all the army of the Chaldees, that were with the captain of the guard, brake down the walls of Jerusalem round about.” - II Kings 25:6-10. The army of Babylon brought Zedekiah before the king of Babylon, they gathered all of his sons, and killed them right before his eyes, then they put out Zedekiah's eyes and hauled away in brass fetters to Babylon. The temple, the palace and all the other wealthy homes were burned and completely destroyed. All of the glory of Jerusalem of David and Solomon's day was gone, the city was nothing, but ashes and broken down walls. The destruction of the once glorious kingdom of Judah and Solomon's Temple is a grim reminder that reformation alone will not bring lasting change in people, there must be repentance and renewal within the heart of a people, as well as a nation to see God change His mind. Even the greatest present day nation on earth, with all its wealth, military might, and nuclear defense, cannot survive, regardless of how much the people may pray, if its people continue to ignore the Word of God.
The people did not know it at the time, but those whom were taken captive into Babylon were being saved from the destruction of Jerusalem that was taking place. While God does place judgment upon our nations, He also provides safety to those who remain faithful to Him. Although we may suffer at times over someone else's sin, it is all for a reason as well. “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.” - Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. Everything we go through has a season and as long as we put our faith and trust in God and live by every one of His words than we will always find peace and comfort even during the toughest trials we face.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and enjoy your week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
devotion@readytofollow.com
Today is Monday May 10, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of II Kings, chapters 24-25. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-10
Title: Bible Study: Heed The Warnings
One thing about life is that we are never prepared for the unexpected, life goes on and everything is great then all of a sudden something happens and we are left to question why this is happening to me. Now, there are times when things happen and there is no reason other than God's reason, we just have to trust God's judgment in the matter and seek peace from Him and to get through it. However, many of these sudden events are an accumulation of things that one has done over the years or one thing done years ago that just caught up to them. For instance, a man committing adultery has a child with the mistress, years later the family is suffering because of this one sin. Although we are accountable for our own sins, people in our lives suffer the consequences of them as well. No one ever thinks about the consequences of their sin, what it not only does to them, but what it does to the rest of the family, even generations later. God may be a forgiving God, but He is not a gullible God and will give only so many warnings before His judgment comes. We need to heed the warnings now because God never goes back on His Word, His judgment is coming and all who do not know Him need to repent accept the fact that they will suffer for going against God. Ignorance does not save us from hell, only Jesus Christ does.
Josiah was one of the best kings in the more than four hundred and fifty year history of the monarchy. When Josiah heard of the destruction that would take place for the sins of his father Manasseh, he did everything he could to get Jerusalem back to being a God fearing nation. No matter what he did God had already made His decision and there was no changing His mind. The death of Josiah ended the prosperity of Judah, just three months after his death, the Southern Kingdom of Judah was defeated and in control of the Egyptians, then later on Babylon. “In his days Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up, and Jehoiakim became his servant three years: then he turned and rebelled against him. And the LORD sent against him bands of the Chaldees, and bands of the Syrians, and bands of the Moabites, and bands of the children of Ammon, and sent them against Judah to destroy it, according to the word of the LORD, which he spake by his servants the prophets. Surely at the commandment of the LORD came this upon Judah, to remove them out of his sight, for the sins of Manasseh, according to all that he did; And also for the innocent blood that he shed: for he filled Jerusalem with innocent blood; which the LORD would not pardon.” - II Kings 24:1-4. The bands were united nations joining with Nebuchadnezzar to defeat Judah, if Jehoiakim would have served the Lord, he would not have been servant to Nebuchadnezzar and He would not have allowed the destruction to continue. However, they continued to do evil in His sight, including killing priests in the Temple, therefore, He continued to allow Jerusalem to be destroyed. God will give us many chances to change our ways before He allows judgment to come upon us, but when He does, look out, He will remove anyone from His sight that will continue to sin, especially those who cause others to live in sin.
Three more kings reigned, all of them evil, the last king Zedekiah suffered the most of them all, “So they took the king, and brought him up to the king of Babylon to Riblah; and they gave judgment upon him. And they slew the sons of Zedekiah before his eyes, and put out the eyes of Zedekiah, and bound him with fetters of brass, and carried him to Babylon. And in the fifth month, on the seventh day of the month, which is the nineteenth year of king Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, came Nebuzaradan, captain of the guard, a servant of the king of Babylon, unto Jerusalem: And he burnt the house of the LORD, and the king's house, and all the houses of Jerusalem, and every great man's house burnt he with fire. And all the army of the Chaldees, that were with the captain of the guard, brake down the walls of Jerusalem round about.” - II Kings 25:6-10. The army of Babylon brought Zedekiah before the king of Babylon, they gathered all of his sons, and killed them right before his eyes, then they put out Zedekiah's eyes and hauled away in brass fetters to Babylon. The temple, the palace and all the other wealthy homes were burned and completely destroyed. All of the glory of Jerusalem of David and Solomon's day was gone, the city was nothing, but ashes and broken down walls. The destruction of the once glorious kingdom of Judah and Solomon's Temple is a grim reminder that reformation alone will not bring lasting change in people, there must be repentance and renewal within the heart of a people, as well as a nation to see God change His mind. Even the greatest present day nation on earth, with all its wealth, military might, and nuclear defense, cannot survive, regardless of how much the people may pray, if its people continue to ignore the Word of God.
The people did not know it at the time, but those whom were taken captive into Babylon were being saved from the destruction of Jerusalem that was taking place. While God does place judgment upon our nations, He also provides safety to those who remain faithful to Him. Although we may suffer at times over someone else's sin, it is all for a reason as well. “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.” - Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. Everything we go through has a season and as long as we put our faith and trust in God and live by every one of His words than we will always find peace and comfort even during the toughest trials we face.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and enjoy your week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
devotion@readytofollow.com
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Bible Study: Our Daily Guide 05.09.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Sunday May 09, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of II Kings, chapters 21-23. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-9
Title: Bible Study: Our Daily Guide
As children of God, we would not get very far in life without the Word of God. His Word is the ultimate guide in providing us with inspiration, instruction, correction, and more importantly how we can have a relationship with God. The only way to God is through Jesus Christ and unless we read it or had someone show it to us from the Bible we would have never known that. God's Word is important and needs to be in our lives daily, you can not read the Bible through in a year and know all about the Bible, if you have thought that then you are deceiving yourself. God designed the Bible to be read daily and to learn a little each time we read it, not all in one year. Think about it, have you ever had to cram for a test? Did you get a good grade. Most tests that are taken by trying to get an abundance of information in a short amount of time do not come out very well. The Bible must be a part of everyone's life if they want to see God's true blessings and what His will is for their lives.
After Hezekiah died, his son Manasseh reigned and he did more evil than any king in the four-hundred and fifty years Israel had kings. He even built groves and worshiped their heathen gods in the House of the Lord. “Manasseh was twelve years old when he began to reign, and reigned fifty and five years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Hephzibah. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, after the abominations of the heathen, whom the LORD cast out before the children of Israel. For he built up again the high places which Hezekiah his father had destroyed; and he reared up altars for Baal, and made a grove, as did Ahab king of Israel; and worshipped all the host of heaven, and served them. And he built altars in the house of the LORD, of which the LORD said, In Jerusalem will I put my name. And he built altars for all the host of heaven in the two courts of the house of the LORD. And he made his son pass through the fire, and observed times, and used enchantments, and dealt with familiar spirits and wizards: he wrought much wickedness in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger....Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Behold, I am bringing such evil upon Jerusalem and Judah, that whosoever heareth of it, both his ears shall tingle. And I will stretch over Jerusalem the line of Samaria, and the plummet of the house of Ahab: and I will wipe Jerusalem as a man wipeth a dish, wiping it, and turning it upside down. And I will forsake the remnant of mine inheritance, and deliver them into the hand of their enemies; and they shall become a prey and a spoil to all their enemies; Because they have done that which was evil in my sight, and have provoked me to anger, since the day their fathers came forth out of Egypt, even unto this day.” - II Kings 21:1-6,12-15. God had had enough and He vowed to destroy Jerusalem for turning their backs on Him, but He did say that He will save a remnant of His people by giving them into the hands of the enemy. Today, His remnant remains and are still among the enemy, but He never forsakes (leaves) them, we may suffer from time to time, but He always makes an end to the suffering.
After two wicked kings ruled over Judah, one godly man, named Josiah walked in the ways of David and did not get intimidated by other kings trying to threaten him. He began to reign at the age of eight, when he was eighteen he began to remove all the idols and groves and repair the Temple. Upon the repairs Hilkiah, the high priest found the Bible. “And Hilkiah the high priest said unto Shaphan the scribe, I have found the book of the law in the house of the LORD. And Hilkiah gave the book to Shaphan, and he read it. And Shaphan the scribe came to the king, and brought the king word again, and said, Thy servants have gathered the money that was found in the house, and have delivered it into the hand of them that do the work, that have the oversight of the house of the LORD. 0And Shaphan the scribe shewed the king, saying, Hilkiah the priest hath delivered me a book. And Shaphan read it before the king. And it came to pass, when the king had heard the words of the book of the law, that he rent his clothes. And the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Achbor the son of Michaiah, and Shaphan the scribe, and Asahiah a servant of the king's, saying, Go ye, enquire of the LORD for me, and for the people, and for all Judah, concerning the words of this book that is found: for great is the wrath of the LORD that is kindled against us, because our fathers have not hearkened unto the words of this book, to do according unto all that which is written concerning us.” - II Kings 22:8-13. For two generations the Bible had completely disappeared and been forbidden to be read even by the priests. It was hid to the point that it was nowhere to be found. This was the first time that he heard the Word of God, or anyone has in years, upon hearing it, he repented for all his sins in true repentance. He is now searching earnestly to find the truth that God would have him do, concerning those things that were written in His Word. Learning the Word of God teaches us also the job that God calls us to do for Him. Yes, God made you for a reason and a purpose, the skills and talents you possess are to be used first to fulfill God's needs and always to be used in a godly way.
Though little is known of Huldah, the prophetess, she had a great influence in Jerusalem. The high priest and the king recognized her prophetic gift and sought spiritual guidance from her. “And she said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Tell the man that sent you to me, Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof, even all the words of the book which the king of Judah hath read: Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke me to anger with all the works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be kindled against this place, and shall not be quenched.” - II Kings 22:15-17. In this instance, Huldah acknowledged the authority of the Book which was discovered in the House of the Lord and announced that punishment would be imposed because the people in Judah had abandoned God and turned to false gods. God is no respecter of persons or sex in the distribution of His precious gifts. Unlike religions which disregard the equality of women, the Bible reveals a respect and regard for them. Now, women are to keep silent in the church and not to be in charge of a church, but there is nothing in the Word of God that states that a woman can not be a prophetess or teach the Word of God. We all need God's Word in our lives if we want to see a great work done in us, and God will produce a great work in anyone who seeks to serve Him faithfully.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and your week, I apologize for this being posted so late in the evening, forgive me for any inconvenience it may have caused.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
devotion@readytofollow.com
Today is Sunday May 09, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of II Kings, chapters 21-23. If you would like to read the chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: http://www.readytofollow.com/bible-may-9
Title: Bible Study: Our Daily Guide
As children of God, we would not get very far in life without the Word of God. His Word is the ultimate guide in providing us with inspiration, instruction, correction, and more importantly how we can have a relationship with God. The only way to God is through Jesus Christ and unless we read it or had someone show it to us from the Bible we would have never known that. God's Word is important and needs to be in our lives daily, you can not read the Bible through in a year and know all about the Bible, if you have thought that then you are deceiving yourself. God designed the Bible to be read daily and to learn a little each time we read it, not all in one year. Think about it, have you ever had to cram for a test? Did you get a good grade. Most tests that are taken by trying to get an abundance of information in a short amount of time do not come out very well. The Bible must be a part of everyone's life if they want to see God's true blessings and what His will is for their lives.
After Hezekiah died, his son Manasseh reigned and he did more evil than any king in the four-hundred and fifty years Israel had kings. He even built groves and worshiped their heathen gods in the House of the Lord. “Manasseh was twelve years old when he began to reign, and reigned fifty and five years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Hephzibah. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, after the abominations of the heathen, whom the LORD cast out before the children of Israel. For he built up again the high places which Hezekiah his father had destroyed; and he reared up altars for Baal, and made a grove, as did Ahab king of Israel; and worshipped all the host of heaven, and served them. And he built altars in the house of the LORD, of which the LORD said, In Jerusalem will I put my name. And he built altars for all the host of heaven in the two courts of the house of the LORD. And he made his son pass through the fire, and observed times, and used enchantments, and dealt with familiar spirits and wizards: he wrought much wickedness in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger....Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Behold, I am bringing such evil upon Jerusalem and Judah, that whosoever heareth of it, both his ears shall tingle. And I will stretch over Jerusalem the line of Samaria, and the plummet of the house of Ahab: and I will wipe Jerusalem as a man wipeth a dish, wiping it, and turning it upside down. And I will forsake the remnant of mine inheritance, and deliver them into the hand of their enemies; and they shall become a prey and a spoil to all their enemies; Because they have done that which was evil in my sight, and have provoked me to anger, since the day their fathers came forth out of Egypt, even unto this day.” - II Kings 21:1-6,12-15. God had had enough and He vowed to destroy Jerusalem for turning their backs on Him, but He did say that He will save a remnant of His people by giving them into the hands of the enemy. Today, His remnant remains and are still among the enemy, but He never forsakes (leaves) them, we may suffer from time to time, but He always makes an end to the suffering.
After two wicked kings ruled over Judah, one godly man, named Josiah walked in the ways of David and did not get intimidated by other kings trying to threaten him. He began to reign at the age of eight, when he was eighteen he began to remove all the idols and groves and repair the Temple. Upon the repairs Hilkiah, the high priest found the Bible. “And Hilkiah the high priest said unto Shaphan the scribe, I have found the book of the law in the house of the LORD. And Hilkiah gave the book to Shaphan, and he read it. And Shaphan the scribe came to the king, and brought the king word again, and said, Thy servants have gathered the money that was found in the house, and have delivered it into the hand of them that do the work, that have the oversight of the house of the LORD. 0And Shaphan the scribe shewed the king, saying, Hilkiah the priest hath delivered me a book. And Shaphan read it before the king. And it came to pass, when the king had heard the words of the book of the law, that he rent his clothes. And the king commanded Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Achbor the son of Michaiah, and Shaphan the scribe, and Asahiah a servant of the king's, saying, Go ye, enquire of the LORD for me, and for the people, and for all Judah, concerning the words of this book that is found: for great is the wrath of the LORD that is kindled against us, because our fathers have not hearkened unto the words of this book, to do according unto all that which is written concerning us.” - II Kings 22:8-13. For two generations the Bible had completely disappeared and been forbidden to be read even by the priests. It was hid to the point that it was nowhere to be found. This was the first time that he heard the Word of God, or anyone has in years, upon hearing it, he repented for all his sins in true repentance. He is now searching earnestly to find the truth that God would have him do, concerning those things that were written in His Word. Learning the Word of God teaches us also the job that God calls us to do for Him. Yes, God made you for a reason and a purpose, the skills and talents you possess are to be used first to fulfill God's needs and always to be used in a godly way.
Though little is known of Huldah, the prophetess, she had a great influence in Jerusalem. The high priest and the king recognized her prophetic gift and sought spiritual guidance from her. “And she said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Tell the man that sent you to me, Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof, even all the words of the book which the king of Judah hath read: Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke me to anger with all the works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be kindled against this place, and shall not be quenched.” - II Kings 22:15-17. In this instance, Huldah acknowledged the authority of the Book which was discovered in the House of the Lord and announced that punishment would be imposed because the people in Judah had abandoned God and turned to false gods. God is no respecter of persons or sex in the distribution of His precious gifts. Unlike religions which disregard the equality of women, the Bible reveals a respect and regard for them. Now, women are to keep silent in the church and not to be in charge of a church, but there is nothing in the Word of God that states that a woman can not be a prophetess or teach the Word of God. We all need God's Word in our lives if we want to see a great work done in us, and God will produce a great work in anyone who seeks to serve Him faithfully.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and your week, I apologize for this being posted so late in the evening, forgive me for any inconvenience it may have caused.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
devotion@readytofollow.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)