Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Saturday July 10, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Psalms, chapters 88-91. 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.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-july-10
Today's Message: You Will Be Walking Again
As Christians our faith in God never remains the same, oh, one may remain faithful to God, but how much faith we have in God differs, usually upon the circumstances we are facing and if we are not daily walking with God, the faithfulness will become the unfaithfulness. Does it feel as though nothing ever changes and that you will never see an end to the circumstances you are facing? Do not give up hope. Do not stop believing in God's great power. Jesus said; “If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.” - Luke 17:6. A mustard seed is one of the tiniest seeds on earth, but it grows into one of the biggest trees. As long as we have just enough faith planted in us we have hope that we can get through any of the circumstances we are facing. If we daily walk with God through those circumstances we will increase our faith in Him, becoming stronger in mind, body, and spirit, which in turn enables us to to overcome them. Think about it, a person has been in a car accident and is unable to walk, the only way to be able to walk again is through intense physical therapy. It is going to be painful, but as long as he has a little bit of faith that he is going to walk again, he will be walking again. The more he progresses the stronger his faith gets, the quicker he recovers, but if he does not make an attempt to go through the therapy his faith will never increase, but decrease, often to the point that it is completely gone and he never walks again. The same is true for the Christian who never does anything to increase his faith in God through his circumstances, if he is not daily walking with God, his faith will decrease and eventually be gone to the point that he no longer believes in God at all. God has faith in you, He wants you to walk again and as long as you keep holding on the that little bit of faith, you will be walking again.
We all get discouraged from time to time, when we are living in sin it is easier to understand if we do not see a change in our circumstances, but when we are living right, one can not help, but wonder if God is even paying attention. Perhaps you may feel as the psalmist writes; “O lord God of my salvation, I have cried day and night before thee: Let my prayer come before thee: incline thine ear unto my cry; For my soul is full of troubles: and my life draweth nigh unto the grave....LORD, why castest thou off my soul? why hidest thou thy face from me? I am afflicted and ready to die from my youth up: while I suffer thy terrors I am distracted. Thy fierce wrath goeth over me; thy terrors have cut me off.” - Psalm 88:1-3,14-16. Our circumstances can distract us to the point that we think God does not hear our prayers, but it is okay to talk to God and just tell Him how you are feeling, He is listening. Yesterday, in fact, the past few weeks I have been struggling to keep my focus on God. He has me working on this project, on top of the other work that I do, and the more I try to get it done the more difficulties I face. It is a bit discouraging and I find myself questioning whether or not I am doing the right thing. This morning I just said to God; “I need Your power, wisdom, and guidance to get me through this day, please do not try me today, You know I need you.” And you know what? For the first time in two weeks I have not just stared at the screen for a hour trying to locate some kind of message to write until the Holy Spirit speaks to me and says; “You are not listening to me.” God is speaking to us, we just have to pay attention to what He is trying to tell us.
God knows what you need, you just have to ask Him for it, it is all about communication, you can talk to God all day long. Did you know that He reads your mind? Did you know that Satan can not read your mind? He can plant things in your head, but he can not hear what you are saying in your head. So, if you talk to God in your head, all day long, your faith will increase as Satan can not discourage you because he does not know what you and God are talking about. Praise God! “Thou hast a mighty arm: strong is thy hand, and high is thy right hand. Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face. Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O LORD, in the light of thy countenance. In thy name shall they rejoice all the day: and in thy righteousness shall they be exalted. For thou art the glory of their strength: and in thy favour our horn shall be exalted. For the LORD is our defence; and the Holy One of Israel is our king.” - Psalm 89:13-18. Talking to God and praising Him all day gets us walking and increases our faith in Him. In fact, we see light through the darkest of circumstances the more we praise Him and talk to Him throughout the day. Praise God! We not only see the light we become stronger because God is our strength. We can get through anything with the power of God.
One important step to get you walking is by reading God's Word, do not be afraid of it, He gave it to us to help us. Some of my favorite books to read out of the Old Testament are Job, Joshua, Ecclesiastes, and Isaiah. The Book of Job is very special to me, when I could not walk God sent me to this book and it was only by reading it that I was able to start walking again. Some of my favorite books to read out of the New Testament is Luke, Romans, Philippians, and Hebrews. Romans reminds me that Christ is my Savior and that He has done so much for me. Find a book that you can relate to and hold on to it, go to it every time your faith is tried. Find a secret place where you can be alone with God and go to it every time you can not walk. “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;... For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone. Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet. Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.” - Psalm 91:1-5,11-16. When we put our trust in God, who is our refuge, He takes us under His wings and protects us from the dangers that are around us. We may have to suffer some, but He will always deliver us to victory. Perhaps the most important victory is our salvation. It is only by trusting in our Lord as our Savior that we even have our salvation. Praise God!
What is the biggest challenge you are facing? Are you afraid to go through the spiritual therapy needed to walk again? Keep holding on to that little bit of faith, pick up the Bible, get in the Word of God, even if it is a verse a day, each day your faith will increase and you will be increasing that faith more and more and be walking in no time. “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.” - Ephesians 5:1,2. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and weekend.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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Saturday, July 10, 2010
Bible Study: A Relationship With Christ 07.09.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Friday July 09, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Psalms, chapters 81-87. 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.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-july-9
Today's Message: A Relationship With Christ
As Christians it is important to develop a relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ, the second one calls on Jesus to save him the relationship begins. Just like any relationship, it takes time getting to know one another, but if they never make an effort the relationship will never develop into very much. In order to know Jesus one has to learn about Him and the only way to learn about Him is through the Word of God. Please do not pick up some book written by someone who thinks they know who Jesus is, of course, there are some great study guides out there, but one can not discern the truth simply by what someone else tells them, unless they are reading it from the Holy Bible. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” - II timothy 3:16,17. We can not do the work that God has called us to do if we do not what that is.
Developing a relationship with Christ enables us to learn the Word of God through the Holy Spirit, who then guides us to a loving and trusting relationship with God.
If we do not have a relationship with Christ we leave things up to our own reasoning to figure out God's likes and dislikes. When that happens we get ourselves into trouble because instead of living a life lead by God we live a life creating our own God. Why do you think there are so many different religions out there? It is people making up God to be who they want Him to be. People who do develop a relationship personally with Christ are in for a harsh awakening. “Blessed are they that dwell in thy house: they will be still praising thee. Selah. Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee; in whose heart are the ways of them............Behold, O God our shield, and look upon the face of thine anointed. For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.” - Psalm 84:4,5,9-12. Sometimes the unbelieving world looks down on the Christian who turns his back on the pleasures of this world. But to be a servant of the Most High God is better than all the pleasure of a rich man's world. Praise God!
Our human nature wants guidance as far in advance as possible instead of being content to develop a relationship with Christ one step at a time. Some of our mistakes in guidance come from our wanting to see beyond the next turn in the road before we are willing to proceed, others from racing ahead on our own without praying or waiting on the Lord's leading. Though our actions may seem good and right in our own eyes, in God's eyes it disobedience. Reading God's Word helps us understand and listen to what the Holy Spirit is trying to say to us. “I will hear what God the LORD will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly. Surely his salvation is nigh them that fear him; that glory may dwell in our land. Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven. Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good; and our land shall yield her increase. Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set us in the way of his steps.” - Psalm 85:8-13. Once we understand the loving care of God over each of His children, we need not allow fear to cause doubt and destroy our relationship with Him. This is the practical wisdom we should treasure in our hearts.
The Holy Spirit guided David to unite the only two weapons of our spiritual warfare, prayer and Word of God. Psalm 86 expresses the power we have when these two weapons become our shield for life. “Bow down thine ear, O LORD, hear me: for I am poor and needy. Preserve my soul; for I am holy: O thou my God, save thy servant that trusteth in thee. Be merciful unto me, O Lord: for I cry unto thee daily. Rejoice the soul of thy servant: for unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee. Give ear, O LORD, unto my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications. In the day of my trouble I will call upon thee: for thou wilt answer me.” - Psalm 86:1-7. David continued in worship to confess God's mercy and readiness to forgive. He expressed the utmost confidence that God listens to His people's prayers and delivers them from all harm regardless of their circumstances. The godly person does not depend upon previous learning to continue a day-by-day walk in the way of truth, but upon the continual daily guidance of God through His Word. Instruction is much more than just information; it is also the means to understand His will and to be obedient, for it carries the thought of correction. The child of God never graduates from God's school of instruction; that is why all of us need to read His Word each day.
We can all have a wonderful, prosperous relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, and when we do, the blessings just pour in. Of course, we are still going to go through some suffering, but enduring the suffering together makes the relationship even stronger. “Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name. I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore. For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell....But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. ” - Psalm 86:11-13,15. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and have an awesome weekend.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
P.S. I apologize for the late posting of this message, all will resume to normal times tomorrow. God bless you.
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
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Today is Friday July 09, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Psalms, chapters 81-87. 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.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-july-9
Today's Message: A Relationship With Christ
As Christians it is important to develop a relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ, the second one calls on Jesus to save him the relationship begins. Just like any relationship, it takes time getting to know one another, but if they never make an effort the relationship will never develop into very much. In order to know Jesus one has to learn about Him and the only way to learn about Him is through the Word of God. Please do not pick up some book written by someone who thinks they know who Jesus is, of course, there are some great study guides out there, but one can not discern the truth simply by what someone else tells them, unless they are reading it from the Holy Bible. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” - II timothy 3:16,17. We can not do the work that God has called us to do if we do not what that is.
Developing a relationship with Christ enables us to learn the Word of God through the Holy Spirit, who then guides us to a loving and trusting relationship with God.
If we do not have a relationship with Christ we leave things up to our own reasoning to figure out God's likes and dislikes. When that happens we get ourselves into trouble because instead of living a life lead by God we live a life creating our own God. Why do you think there are so many different religions out there? It is people making up God to be who they want Him to be. People who do develop a relationship personally with Christ are in for a harsh awakening. “Blessed are they that dwell in thy house: they will be still praising thee. Selah. Blessed is the man whose strength is in thee; in whose heart are the ways of them............Behold, O God our shield, and look upon the face of thine anointed. For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.” - Psalm 84:4,5,9-12. Sometimes the unbelieving world looks down on the Christian who turns his back on the pleasures of this world. But to be a servant of the Most High God is better than all the pleasure of a rich man's world. Praise God!
Our human nature wants guidance as far in advance as possible instead of being content to develop a relationship with Christ one step at a time. Some of our mistakes in guidance come from our wanting to see beyond the next turn in the road before we are willing to proceed, others from racing ahead on our own without praying or waiting on the Lord's leading. Though our actions may seem good and right in our own eyes, in God's eyes it disobedience. Reading God's Word helps us understand and listen to what the Holy Spirit is trying to say to us. “I will hear what God the LORD will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly. Surely his salvation is nigh them that fear him; that glory may dwell in our land. Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven. Yea, the LORD shall give that which is good; and our land shall yield her increase. Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set us in the way of his steps.” - Psalm 85:8-13. Once we understand the loving care of God over each of His children, we need not allow fear to cause doubt and destroy our relationship with Him. This is the practical wisdom we should treasure in our hearts.
The Holy Spirit guided David to unite the only two weapons of our spiritual warfare, prayer and Word of God. Psalm 86 expresses the power we have when these two weapons become our shield for life. “Bow down thine ear, O LORD, hear me: for I am poor and needy. Preserve my soul; for I am holy: O thou my God, save thy servant that trusteth in thee. Be merciful unto me, O Lord: for I cry unto thee daily. Rejoice the soul of thy servant: for unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul. For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee. Give ear, O LORD, unto my prayer; and attend to the voice of my supplications. In the day of my trouble I will call upon thee: for thou wilt answer me.” - Psalm 86:1-7. David continued in worship to confess God's mercy and readiness to forgive. He expressed the utmost confidence that God listens to His people's prayers and delivers them from all harm regardless of their circumstances. The godly person does not depend upon previous learning to continue a day-by-day walk in the way of truth, but upon the continual daily guidance of God through His Word. Instruction is much more than just information; it is also the means to understand His will and to be obedient, for it carries the thought of correction. The child of God never graduates from God's school of instruction; that is why all of us need to read His Word each day.
We can all have a wonderful, prosperous relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, and when we do, the blessings just pour in. Of course, we are still going to go through some suffering, but enduring the suffering together makes the relationship even stronger. “Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name. I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore. For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell....But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. ” - Psalm 86:11-13,15. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and have an awesome weekend.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
P.S. I apologize for the late posting of this message, all will resume to normal times tomorrow. God bless you.
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?
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Thursday, July 8, 2010
Bible Study: Lukewarm Christians 07.08.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Thursday July 08, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Psalms, chapters 78-80. 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-july-8
Today's Message: Lukewarm Christians
One thing that probably angers God the most is a lukewarm Christian, a lukewarm Christian is one that has been saved, knows he can come to God at any time, but chooses to live according to his own will rather than God's, except when he gets in trouble. “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:” - Revelation 3:15-17. What God is saying, “I know what you are doing, you follow my will when you want something, then once you get it, you go right back to doing your own thing. I would rather you to remain (wert) one way or the other. Because you follow me halfheartedly I am not going to help you any longer.” Being a lukewarm Christian is like a person who has gone to prison and while he in there he behaves, but once he gets out he goes right back to his life of crime. God loves us all, but just like any father who loves his child he can not help them if they do not want to stay out of trouble. What it all comes down to is this, if you say you are going to follow Christ, than do it, follow through with your agreement. If you are going to remain in the world, don't expect God to get you out of trouble, you are going to suffer all on your own. However, one thing a lukewarm Christian can count on is that God is right there to pick you up when you finally choose to follow Him wholeheartedly. Praise God!
God had chosen Israel to be His witness to the world. As His people, they were to be examples of how He would bless all who honor Him and His Word. From the time they left Egypt they saw great miracles from God, yet never appreciated or thanked God for all He had done for them. All God wanted was a little recognition for His hard work and for the Israelites to remain faithful to Him, but what He constantly got was lukewarm Israelites, who only came to Him when they were being chastised. “They kept not the covenant of God, and refused to walk in his law; And forgat his works, and his wonders that he had shewed them....And they sinned yet more against him by provoking the most High in the wilderness. And they tempted God in their heart by asking meat for their lust. Yea, they spake against God; they said, Can God furnish a table in the wilderness? Behold, he smote the rock, that the waters gushed out, and the streams overflowed; can he give bread also? can he provide flesh for his people? Therefore the LORD heard this, and was wroth: so a fire was kindled against Jacob, and anger also came up against Israel; Because they believed not in God, and trusted not in his salvation:...When he slew them, then they sought him: and they returned and enquired early after God. And they remembered that God was their rock, and the high God their redeemer. Nevertheless they did flatter him with their mouth, and they lied unto him with their tongues. For their heart was not right with him, neither were they stedfast in his covenant.” - Psalm 78:1011,17-22,34-37. God knows each and every heart of His children, He knows if they are seeking Him wholeheartedly or really have no intention of remaining faithful to Him. Remember, God is always in control, but He also gives us the freewill to decide for ourselves whether or not we will remain faithful to Him. He will allow wickedness to enter a Christians life if that is what he wants, but He will not be there to back him up when he gets into trouble. However, He is always listening for that sweet sound of a heart beating only for Him.
Rebellion is the key that keeps Christians from living in the will of God wholeheartedly, from the time God created man and woman rebellion has literally destroyed His people. They want what the flesh desires and want it now. We all get rebellious at times, no one wants to be told what to do, the second the flesh gets wind that it can not have or do something rebellion kicks in. There is a constant battle going on within our own bodies, a battle between the flesh and the Spirit. Like I said earlier in the week, the soul feeds off of both and if we are not following God wholeheartedly the flesh will take over and become rebellious over the Spirit. That is why it is important that we never lose sight of God for any reason. Sure you are going to mess up from time to time, even in the will of God, but God knows your heart and will be there to help you. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” - I John 1:1. Praise God!
God is longing for us to trust Him and look beyond our own human resources to His endless supply. He has not promised that we will not face any trials, but He has promised to protect and always be there for us. “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” - Hebrews 13:5-8. When times of discouragement come, then is the best time to count our blessings and remember where the Lord brought us from, especially from the depths of hell. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
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Today is Thursday July 08, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Psalms, chapters 78-80. 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-july-8
Today's Message: Lukewarm Christians
One thing that probably angers God the most is a lukewarm Christian, a lukewarm Christian is one that has been saved, knows he can come to God at any time, but chooses to live according to his own will rather than God's, except when he gets in trouble. “I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:” - Revelation 3:15-17. What God is saying, “I know what you are doing, you follow my will when you want something, then once you get it, you go right back to doing your own thing. I would rather you to remain (wert) one way or the other. Because you follow me halfheartedly I am not going to help you any longer.” Being a lukewarm Christian is like a person who has gone to prison and while he in there he behaves, but once he gets out he goes right back to his life of crime. God loves us all, but just like any father who loves his child he can not help them if they do not want to stay out of trouble. What it all comes down to is this, if you say you are going to follow Christ, than do it, follow through with your agreement. If you are going to remain in the world, don't expect God to get you out of trouble, you are going to suffer all on your own. However, one thing a lukewarm Christian can count on is that God is right there to pick you up when you finally choose to follow Him wholeheartedly. Praise God!
God had chosen Israel to be His witness to the world. As His people, they were to be examples of how He would bless all who honor Him and His Word. From the time they left Egypt they saw great miracles from God, yet never appreciated or thanked God for all He had done for them. All God wanted was a little recognition for His hard work and for the Israelites to remain faithful to Him, but what He constantly got was lukewarm Israelites, who only came to Him when they were being chastised. “They kept not the covenant of God, and refused to walk in his law; And forgat his works, and his wonders that he had shewed them....And they sinned yet more against him by provoking the most High in the wilderness. And they tempted God in their heart by asking meat for their lust. Yea, they spake against God; they said, Can God furnish a table in the wilderness? Behold, he smote the rock, that the waters gushed out, and the streams overflowed; can he give bread also? can he provide flesh for his people? Therefore the LORD heard this, and was wroth: so a fire was kindled against Jacob, and anger also came up against Israel; Because they believed not in God, and trusted not in his salvation:...When he slew them, then they sought him: and they returned and enquired early after God. And they remembered that God was their rock, and the high God their redeemer. Nevertheless they did flatter him with their mouth, and they lied unto him with their tongues. For their heart was not right with him, neither were they stedfast in his covenant.” - Psalm 78:1011,17-22,34-37. God knows each and every heart of His children, He knows if they are seeking Him wholeheartedly or really have no intention of remaining faithful to Him. Remember, God is always in control, but He also gives us the freewill to decide for ourselves whether or not we will remain faithful to Him. He will allow wickedness to enter a Christians life if that is what he wants, but He will not be there to back him up when he gets into trouble. However, He is always listening for that sweet sound of a heart beating only for Him.
Rebellion is the key that keeps Christians from living in the will of God wholeheartedly, from the time God created man and woman rebellion has literally destroyed His people. They want what the flesh desires and want it now. We all get rebellious at times, no one wants to be told what to do, the second the flesh gets wind that it can not have or do something rebellion kicks in. There is a constant battle going on within our own bodies, a battle between the flesh and the Spirit. Like I said earlier in the week, the soul feeds off of both and if we are not following God wholeheartedly the flesh will take over and become rebellious over the Spirit. That is why it is important that we never lose sight of God for any reason. Sure you are going to mess up from time to time, even in the will of God, but God knows your heart and will be there to help you. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” - I John 1:1. Praise God!
God is longing for us to trust Him and look beyond our own human resources to His endless supply. He has not promised that we will not face any trials, but He has promised to protect and always be there for us. “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” - Hebrews 13:5-8. When times of discouragement come, then is the best time to count our blessings and remember where the Lord brought us from, especially from the depths of hell. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
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Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Bible Study: True Prosperity 07.07.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Wednesday July 07, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Psalms, chapters 72-77. 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-july-7
Today's Message: True Prosperity
As Christians we can rejoice in knowing that even though we may be poor we have the riches of heaven waiting for us. While we all need money, if we are not careful, it can turn the most faithful Christian away from God. “But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” - I Timothy 6:9,10. If there is one thing I have learned over the past twenty-three years of working is that money truly is the root of all evil. I remember my first job, I was a dishwasher, making $3.25 a hour, it was not the best job, but I enjoyed working there and happily accepted that pay check each week. As the years went on, the jobs got more advanced and the wages higher, but the higher the wages, the less I enjoyed the job, I accepted the pay check, but was not really happy, I always wanted it to be bigger. Don't we all? Well, I was never even close to being a millionaire, but I was prosperous for a while and got all the things I wanted. What I did not have was God, so, the more money I got, the more I wanted, the more I wanted, the more money I needed, the more I needed, the more I did to get it. It was a viscous cycle that I am not proud of and so glad God took me out of. We all would like to enjoy prosperity and receive things we can not always afford and we can have them. True prosperity comes from relying on the promises of God that He will always provide for us. “Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” - I Timothy 6:17-19.
The world thinks that money gives them power and while they may be able to buy off the rest of the money hungry people, they can not buy off God. God has all power, He is alive and well and no matter how much money you have all will bow down and be pleading before God. There is only one way to God and that is through Jesus Christ, if you have Jesus then you do not have to worry about money because God will provide for you. “Yea, all kings shall fall down before him: all nations shall serve him. For he shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper. He shall spare the poor and needy, and shall save the souls of the needy. He shall redeem their soul from deceit and violence: and precious shall their blood be in his sight....His name shall endure for ever: his name shall be continued as long as the sun: and men shall be blessed in him: all nations shall call him blessed. Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory; Amen, and Amen.” - Psalm 72:11-14,17-19. God will redeem anyone, even the most wealthiest person, as long as they let go of their pride and call on Jesus. He will get all to see that money is not what they need, God is who they need. It is amazing just how blessed one becomes when they put their faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. I lost everything I had to see that He was who I needed all along. In fact, the more I put my trust in Him, the more prosperous I become. Praise God!
Yes, it can be a bit frustrating to see those who live wickedly prosper, they will be the first to tell you that the do not need God. A series of Psalms attributed to Asaph, David's song leader, we written regarding his frustration. He wondered why the wicked were not plagued with sufferings that the child of God had to endure. “For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. For there are no bands in their death: but their strength is firm. They are not in trouble as other men; neither are they plagued like other men....They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily. They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth. Therefore his people return hither: and waters of a full cup are wrung out to them. And they say, How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the most High? Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches.” - Psalm 73:3-5,8-12. You see how we are no different from those who were around centuries ago? They dealt with the same issues and had the same questions as we do. While it may look as though those who are ungodly have everything and do not suffer the do suffer. The wicked might think they prosper or are in control, but the reality of it is, they are just puppets on a string, controlled by the money. They have to buy people to hang out with them, they have no life other than making money, they buy their and everyone elses love. If they lost everything in an instant, they would have no one. Praise God that we have Jesus, when we lose everything, we still have Jesus and always have true friends and loved ones who are there for us.
The psalmist gained a true perspective of life's problems when he realized God was always with Him. When all other resources fail and we discover that God, and God alone, is adequate to satisfy our every need. We draw near to Him and His presence will banish all our darkness and brighten and beautify our lives with His Light, endless love, and loyalty. “I cried unto God with my voice, even unto God with my voice; and he gave ear unto me. In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord: my sore ran in the night, and ceased not: my soul refused to be comforted. I remembered God, and was troubled: I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah....I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old. I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings. Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God? Thou art the God that doest wonders: thou hast declared thy strength among the people.” - Psalm 77:1-3,11-14. The disciple who accepts the course of life's events as being under the control of God will trust Him and thank Him in humble prayer for the needed grace and countless blessings of God. He will have taken the first step in the path that leads to daily fellowship with the Lord and a wholehearted surrender to live entirely for Christ. Then he will see just how prosperous life truly is, whether he has $1 or $1,000,000. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
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Today is Wednesday July 07, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Psalms, chapters 72-77. 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-july-7
Today's Message: True Prosperity
As Christians we can rejoice in knowing that even though we may be poor we have the riches of heaven waiting for us. While we all need money, if we are not careful, it can turn the most faithful Christian away from God. “But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.” - I Timothy 6:9,10. If there is one thing I have learned over the past twenty-three years of working is that money truly is the root of all evil. I remember my first job, I was a dishwasher, making $3.25 a hour, it was not the best job, but I enjoyed working there and happily accepted that pay check each week. As the years went on, the jobs got more advanced and the wages higher, but the higher the wages, the less I enjoyed the job, I accepted the pay check, but was not really happy, I always wanted it to be bigger. Don't we all? Well, I was never even close to being a millionaire, but I was prosperous for a while and got all the things I wanted. What I did not have was God, so, the more money I got, the more I wanted, the more I wanted, the more money I needed, the more I needed, the more I did to get it. It was a viscous cycle that I am not proud of and so glad God took me out of. We all would like to enjoy prosperity and receive things we can not always afford and we can have them. True prosperity comes from relying on the promises of God that He will always provide for us. “Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” - I Timothy 6:17-19.
The world thinks that money gives them power and while they may be able to buy off the rest of the money hungry people, they can not buy off God. God has all power, He is alive and well and no matter how much money you have all will bow down and be pleading before God. There is only one way to God and that is through Jesus Christ, if you have Jesus then you do not have to worry about money because God will provide for you. “Yea, all kings shall fall down before him: all nations shall serve him. For he shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper. He shall spare the poor and needy, and shall save the souls of the needy. He shall redeem their soul from deceit and violence: and precious shall their blood be in his sight....His name shall endure for ever: his name shall be continued as long as the sun: and men shall be blessed in him: all nations shall call him blessed. Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things. And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory; Amen, and Amen.” - Psalm 72:11-14,17-19. God will redeem anyone, even the most wealthiest person, as long as they let go of their pride and call on Jesus. He will get all to see that money is not what they need, God is who they need. It is amazing just how blessed one becomes when they put their faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. I lost everything I had to see that He was who I needed all along. In fact, the more I put my trust in Him, the more prosperous I become. Praise God!
Yes, it can be a bit frustrating to see those who live wickedly prosper, they will be the first to tell you that the do not need God. A series of Psalms attributed to Asaph, David's song leader, we written regarding his frustration. He wondered why the wicked were not plagued with sufferings that the child of God had to endure. “For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. For there are no bands in their death: but their strength is firm. They are not in trouble as other men; neither are they plagued like other men....They are corrupt, and speak wickedly concerning oppression: they speak loftily. They set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth. Therefore his people return hither: and waters of a full cup are wrung out to them. And they say, How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the most High? Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches.” - Psalm 73:3-5,8-12. You see how we are no different from those who were around centuries ago? They dealt with the same issues and had the same questions as we do. While it may look as though those who are ungodly have everything and do not suffer the do suffer. The wicked might think they prosper or are in control, but the reality of it is, they are just puppets on a string, controlled by the money. They have to buy people to hang out with them, they have no life other than making money, they buy their and everyone elses love. If they lost everything in an instant, they would have no one. Praise God that we have Jesus, when we lose everything, we still have Jesus and always have true friends and loved ones who are there for us.
The psalmist gained a true perspective of life's problems when he realized God was always with Him. When all other resources fail and we discover that God, and God alone, is adequate to satisfy our every need. We draw near to Him and His presence will banish all our darkness and brighten and beautify our lives with His Light, endless love, and loyalty. “I cried unto God with my voice, even unto God with my voice; and he gave ear unto me. In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord: my sore ran in the night, and ceased not: my soul refused to be comforted. I remembered God, and was troubled: I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah....I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old. I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings. Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God? Thou art the God that doest wonders: thou hast declared thy strength among the people.” - Psalm 77:1-3,11-14. The disciple who accepts the course of life's events as being under the control of God will trust Him and thank Him in humble prayer for the needed grace and countless blessings of God. He will have taken the first step in the path that leads to daily fellowship with the Lord and a wholehearted surrender to live entirely for Christ. Then he will see just how prosperous life truly is, whether he has $1 or $1,000,000. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
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Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Bible Study: Seeking God's Righteousness 07.06.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Tuesday July 06, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Psalms, chapters 67-71. 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-july-6
Today's Message: Seeking God's Righteousness
One thing that all Christians can count on is God's awesome mercy and grace to forgive all who put their trust in the Lord Jesus Christ to save them from their sins and hell. Praise God! No matter how many times we get ourselves in trouble God is always there to help bail us out, it pleases Him to see one of His children repent and humbly seek His help. The word please means to delight in, to be full of joy. So, when God is pleased, He is full of joy over His children coming to Him and asking Him for help. What pleases Him most is not getting in trouble in the first place. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” - Matthew 6:33. To receive God's blessings we need to get saved and seek His righteousness, meaning, do what is good in His sight. Pleasing God is more than just seeking forgiveness, it is about seeking His righteousness and changing your life with Christ leading the way.
It is amazing just how merciful God is, He is more merciful than any of us will ever be to anyone here on earth. Of course, He knows we are going to sin from time to time because of the sinful flesh that we carry around with us, but as we allow Jesus to lead us we learn to seek God's righteousness and that includes having mercy on those who have wronged us or a loved one. “God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon us; Selah. That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations. Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee. O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth. Selah.” - Psalm 67:1-4. We are all going to face the judgment seat one day, God knows the heart and will judge us according to how we handle people who have wronged us. He is not a respecter of persons, therefore He does not expect us to be. “But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.... For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.” - James 2:9,13. God will have no mercy on those who do not have mercy toward others.
An amazing transformation happens as we seek God's righteousness, people and things that were once essential in our lives disappear and are replaced by people or things that please God. Do not be offended or surprised to see a dear friend turn on you, many will flee as you seek God's righteousness, but keep on praising Him and do not worry about them because He will help you get through the mocking and persecution you are going to face. God abundantly blesses those who trust in His salvation, but keep in mind, anyone who has been abusing God's mercy with no intention of seeking His righteousness is going to suffer. “Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah. He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death. But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy scalp of such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses.” - Psalm 68:19-21. You will often hear people say, “I can do what I want because God will forgive me for it”. And they wonder why their life is such a mess? Comments like that show God that they have no respect for Him, can care less about Him, and are abusing His generosity. It is like a person who has no ambition in life, but wants everything handed to him and gets mad because no one wants to do anything to help him. God has no mercy on those who do not even try to do anything to change their lives for Him. God will not be mocked and those who continue to live in sin with no intention of changing will suffer. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” - Galatians 6:7,8.
Eventually all who live unrighteously will seek comfort and pity from those around them and will not find it, but God is merciful and forgiving to all who come to Him. “Save me, O God; for the waters are come in unto my soul. I sink in deep mire, where there is no standing: I am come into deep waters, where the floods overflow me. I am weary of my crying: my throat is dried: mine eyes fail while I wait for my God....Thou hast known my reproach, and my shame, and my dishonour: mine adversaries are all before thee. Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none. They gave me also gall for my meat; and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink....I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving. This also shall please the LORD better than an ox or bullock that hath horns and hoofs. The humble shall see this, and be glad: and your heart shall live that seek God.” - Psalm 69:1-3,19-21,30-32. God will have mercy on all who truly come to Him. There is an amazing prophecy of Christ within these verses, when Jesus was being tormented and crucified, not one person was there to comfort Him, every one of the disciples fled for their lives and when He was on the cross they tried to give him gall and vinegar to drink. “They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.” - Matthew 27:34.
All who have accepted Christ as their Savior are blessed beyond measure, we have sought God's kingdom, now show Him thanks by seeking His righteousness. He will not only be pleased, He will bless you even more for it, Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
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 July 06, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Psalms, chapters 67-71. 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-july-6
Today's Message: Seeking God's Righteousness
One thing that all Christians can count on is God's awesome mercy and grace to forgive all who put their trust in the Lord Jesus Christ to save them from their sins and hell. Praise God! No matter how many times we get ourselves in trouble God is always there to help bail us out, it pleases Him to see one of His children repent and humbly seek His help. The word please means to delight in, to be full of joy. So, when God is pleased, He is full of joy over His children coming to Him and asking Him for help. What pleases Him most is not getting in trouble in the first place. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” - Matthew 6:33. To receive God's blessings we need to get saved and seek His righteousness, meaning, do what is good in His sight. Pleasing God is more than just seeking forgiveness, it is about seeking His righteousness and changing your life with Christ leading the way.
It is amazing just how merciful God is, He is more merciful than any of us will ever be to anyone here on earth. Of course, He knows we are going to sin from time to time because of the sinful flesh that we carry around with us, but as we allow Jesus to lead us we learn to seek God's righteousness and that includes having mercy on those who have wronged us or a loved one. “God be merciful unto us, and bless us; and cause his face to shine upon us; Selah. That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations. Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee. O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the nations upon earth. Selah.” - Psalm 67:1-4. We are all going to face the judgment seat one day, God knows the heart and will judge us according to how we handle people who have wronged us. He is not a respecter of persons, therefore He does not expect us to be. “But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.... For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.” - James 2:9,13. God will have no mercy on those who do not have mercy toward others.
An amazing transformation happens as we seek God's righteousness, people and things that were once essential in our lives disappear and are replaced by people or things that please God. Do not be offended or surprised to see a dear friend turn on you, many will flee as you seek God's righteousness, but keep on praising Him and do not worry about them because He will help you get through the mocking and persecution you are going to face. God abundantly blesses those who trust in His salvation, but keep in mind, anyone who has been abusing God's mercy with no intention of seeking His righteousness is going to suffer. “Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah. He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death. But God shall wound the head of his enemies, and the hairy scalp of such an one as goeth on still in his trespasses.” - Psalm 68:19-21. You will often hear people say, “I can do what I want because God will forgive me for it”. And they wonder why their life is such a mess? Comments like that show God that they have no respect for Him, can care less about Him, and are abusing His generosity. It is like a person who has no ambition in life, but wants everything handed to him and gets mad because no one wants to do anything to help him. God has no mercy on those who do not even try to do anything to change their lives for Him. God will not be mocked and those who continue to live in sin with no intention of changing will suffer. “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” - Galatians 6:7,8.
Eventually all who live unrighteously will seek comfort and pity from those around them and will not find it, but God is merciful and forgiving to all who come to Him. “Save me, O God; for the waters are come in unto my soul. I sink in deep mire, where there is no standing: I am come into deep waters, where the floods overflow me. I am weary of my crying: my throat is dried: mine eyes fail while I wait for my God....Thou hast known my reproach, and my shame, and my dishonour: mine adversaries are all before thee. Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none. They gave me also gall for my meat; and in my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink....I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving. This also shall please the LORD better than an ox or bullock that hath horns and hoofs. The humble shall see this, and be glad: and your heart shall live that seek God.” - Psalm 69:1-3,19-21,30-32. God will have mercy on all who truly come to Him. There is an amazing prophecy of Christ within these verses, when Jesus was being tormented and crucified, not one person was there to comfort Him, every one of the disciples fled for their lives and when He was on the cross they tried to give him gall and vinegar to drink. “They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.” - Matthew 27:34.
All who have accepted Christ as their Savior are blessed beyond measure, we have sought God's kingdom, now show Him thanks by seeking His righteousness. He will not only be pleased, He will bless you even more for it, Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
Want To Receive These Devotions in Your Email?
Send me a blank email with the word Subscribe in the Title to:
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Monday, July 5, 2010
Daily Bible Study: Doubting God 07.05.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Monday July 05, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Psalms, chapters 60-66. 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-july-5.php
Today's Message: Doubting God
Christians can rejoice in their salvation, the fact that once they called on the Lord Jesus Christ to save them, they were forgiven of all their sins, and every one of them were forgotten, never to be remembered by God ever again. Praise God! One thing we have to be aware of is that no one likes to try to get us to doubt our salvation more than Satan. He will just out of the blue remind us of something that we have done and all of a sudden we are thinking, “Am I still saved?” The truth is, we are all going to sin again, no matter how strong our walk with Christ is, but it can never take away our salvation. As long as we, from the bottom of our heart, believe in the death, burial, and resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ and with our mouths confessed that we believe in Him, nothing, not even Satan or our doubts can remove our salvation from us. “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.” - Romans 10:9. Praise God! When we doubt our salvation we are doubting God and when we start doubting God, it is a matter of time before we lose our faith in Him as well. We have to realize that every time we start rehashing old sins all we are doing is doubting God and making it harder on ourselves. Of course, we are going to think about what God saved us from, I thank Him every day for saving me from the mess I was in, but we have to let it go, just like God did.
It is not uncommon for someone to start thinking about all the wrongs one has done when it looks like they are being punished by God. David often prayed to God thinking he was being punished and wondering where God was. “O God, thou hast cast us off, thou hast scattered us, thou hast been displeased; O turn thyself to us again. Thou hast made the earth to tremble; thou hast broken it: heal the breaches thereof; for it shaketh. Thou hast shewed thy people hard things: thou hast made us to drink the wine of astonishment. Thou hast given a banner to them that fear thee, that it may be displayed because of the truth. Selah.” - Psalm 60:1-4. Once we get saved and start growing as a Christian it becomes much harder to sin and when we do the Holy Spirit reveals to us the need to repent, but once we repent, all is forgiven and forgotten, we might have to suffer a little bit for the sin, but once the chastisement is over, all is right with God again. David knew this and once he realized that he started reminding himself of just how much God had been there for him and still is. “My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.” - Psalm 62:5-8. Think about just how much God has gotten you through, all who come to Him, even when they have sinned over and over again, are forgiven. Trust in His salvation, He is your refuge.
The soul is the center of every being, it is always longing for something to keep it satisfied. Ever just feel blah? It is because something deep down in the soul is not right. And when the soul is not right, if effects the body and spirit as well. Now, if you have not accepted Jesus as your Savior you do not have the spirit of God in you, therefore, nothing truly satisfies your soul. However, those who do have the spirit of God in them long for the spirit to satisfy their soul. “O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary. Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips:” - Psalm 63:1-5. - Jesus is living water, the only One that satisfies the soul. “Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” - John 4:13,14. Have you ever been so thirsty that you drank the first thing you saw and it was something instead of pure water? Most likely it left you still thirsty, sometimes I drink iced tea and every time I do I immediately drink a glass of water afterward. There is something about pure water that hydrates and satisfies the body like nothing else. Like the body, the soul gets thirsty as well, you can try to give is other things to drink, but it does not last, it is always thirsty. Jesus is the living water that hydrates and satisfies the soul.
So, if you are doing everything you are supposed to be doing and still suffering, maybe it is time to ask God to search your heart for any hidden sin that you have forgotten about. God will afflict us until we repent of our sins, even the hidden ones. Go to God, ask Him to search your heart and reveal any hidden sin inside. He will let you know what it is and get you right with Him. “O bless our God, ye people, and make the voice of his praise to be heard: Which holdeth our soul in life, and suffereth not our feet to be moved. For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried....Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done for my soul. I cried unto him with my mouth, and he was extolled with my tongue. If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: But verily God hath heard me; he hath attended to the voice of my prayer. Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me.” - Psalm 66:8-10,16-20. God has mercy on all who come to Him and seek forgiveness. Praise God! If all is well and you have no hidden sin in your life, Praise God! Just trust in God, He is preparing you for something, He wants you to have faith in Him and stop doubting Him. God is with you, just let Him know that you believe in Him and you will start to see things change. Keep in mind that every time you reach the top of a mountain at some point you have to go back down. Life is full of ups and downs, but if we put our trust in God, He will hear our prayers and answer them, maybe not in the way we want, but He always answers prayers. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and have an awesome week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Visit: I'm Following Jesus!
http://www.readytofollow.com
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
You Can Be: I'm Ready to Get Saved
http://www.readytofollow.com/salvation
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Today is Monday July 05, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Psalms, chapters 60-66. 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-july-5.php
Today's Message: Doubting God
Christians can rejoice in their salvation, the fact that once they called on the Lord Jesus Christ to save them, they were forgiven of all their sins, and every one of them were forgotten, never to be remembered by God ever again. Praise God! One thing we have to be aware of is that no one likes to try to get us to doubt our salvation more than Satan. He will just out of the blue remind us of something that we have done and all of a sudden we are thinking, “Am I still saved?” The truth is, we are all going to sin again, no matter how strong our walk with Christ is, but it can never take away our salvation. As long as we, from the bottom of our heart, believe in the death, burial, and resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ and with our mouths confessed that we believe in Him, nothing, not even Satan or our doubts can remove our salvation from us. “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.” - Romans 10:9. Praise God! When we doubt our salvation we are doubting God and when we start doubting God, it is a matter of time before we lose our faith in Him as well. We have to realize that every time we start rehashing old sins all we are doing is doubting God and making it harder on ourselves. Of course, we are going to think about what God saved us from, I thank Him every day for saving me from the mess I was in, but we have to let it go, just like God did.
It is not uncommon for someone to start thinking about all the wrongs one has done when it looks like they are being punished by God. David often prayed to God thinking he was being punished and wondering where God was. “O God, thou hast cast us off, thou hast scattered us, thou hast been displeased; O turn thyself to us again. Thou hast made the earth to tremble; thou hast broken it: heal the breaches thereof; for it shaketh. Thou hast shewed thy people hard things: thou hast made us to drink the wine of astonishment. Thou hast given a banner to them that fear thee, that it may be displayed because of the truth. Selah.” - Psalm 60:1-4. Once we get saved and start growing as a Christian it becomes much harder to sin and when we do the Holy Spirit reveals to us the need to repent, but once we repent, all is forgiven and forgotten, we might have to suffer a little bit for the sin, but once the chastisement is over, all is right with God again. David knew this and once he realized that he started reminding himself of just how much God had been there for him and still is. “My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.” - Psalm 62:5-8. Think about just how much God has gotten you through, all who come to Him, even when they have sinned over and over again, are forgiven. Trust in His salvation, He is your refuge.
The soul is the center of every being, it is always longing for something to keep it satisfied. Ever just feel blah? It is because something deep down in the soul is not right. And when the soul is not right, if effects the body and spirit as well. Now, if you have not accepted Jesus as your Savior you do not have the spirit of God in you, therefore, nothing truly satisfies your soul. However, those who do have the spirit of God in them long for the spirit to satisfy their soul. “O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary. Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips:” - Psalm 63:1-5. - Jesus is living water, the only One that satisfies the soul. “Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” - John 4:13,14. Have you ever been so thirsty that you drank the first thing you saw and it was something instead of pure water? Most likely it left you still thirsty, sometimes I drink iced tea and every time I do I immediately drink a glass of water afterward. There is something about pure water that hydrates and satisfies the body like nothing else. Like the body, the soul gets thirsty as well, you can try to give is other things to drink, but it does not last, it is always thirsty. Jesus is the living water that hydrates and satisfies the soul.
So, if you are doing everything you are supposed to be doing and still suffering, maybe it is time to ask God to search your heart for any hidden sin that you have forgotten about. God will afflict us until we repent of our sins, even the hidden ones. Go to God, ask Him to search your heart and reveal any hidden sin inside. He will let you know what it is and get you right with Him. “O bless our God, ye people, and make the voice of his praise to be heard: Which holdeth our soul in life, and suffereth not our feet to be moved. For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried....Come and hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done for my soul. I cried unto him with my mouth, and he was extolled with my tongue. If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: But verily God hath heard me; he hath attended to the voice of my prayer. Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me.” - Psalm 66:8-10,16-20. God has mercy on all who come to Him and seek forgiveness. Praise God! If all is well and you have no hidden sin in your life, Praise God! Just trust in God, He is preparing you for something, He wants you to have faith in Him and stop doubting Him. God is with you, just let Him know that you believe in Him and you will start to see things change. Keep in mind that every time you reach the top of a mountain at some point you have to go back down. Life is full of ups and downs, but if we put our trust in God, He will hear our prayers and answer them, maybe not in the way we want, but He always answers prayers. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and have an awesome 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:
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Daily Bible Study: Facing Problems 07.04.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Sunday July 04, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Psalms, chapters 52-59. 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-july-4
Today's Message: Facing Problems
We are all going to face problems in our lives, sometimes we create them all on our own and sometimes they just show up out of no where, but regardless of how we get them we have to face them. We can not run from our problems, they always follow us and tend to get even bigger. I remember when I was going through a bad year thinking, if I could just get away from it all. I ended up spending six months in New York, I thought by ignoring them they would go away, but they never went away. They just kept building up like a storm, then it was like a hurricane hit me. I ended up going through several more years of problems and unnecessary suffering because I did not want to just deal with the problems as I should have. God allows us to go through these problems and to even run for a while in order to get us to realize we can not run from them and we need help to overcome them. Of course, it is usually when we are going through the worse times in our lives that we do realize that. Instead of running from the problems we need to face them, this time with God showing us how to handle them.
David had an incident between his sons Amnon, Absalom, and Absalom's sister, Tamar, Amnon raped Tamar (II Samuel 13). When David heard about what happened he decided to ignore the problem rather than deal with it. The result, Absalom ended up having Amnon killed and now he is trying to kill his own father in order to reign as king. Talk about someone who must have been regretting that he never dealt with the problem. The truth is when we ignore things all we are doing is allowing the person or things creating the problem think they have control and they do as long as we ignore them. So, here is David discouraged and on top of his son deceiving him, his beloved friend was also (II Samuel 15-17). Yet, he put his trust in the mercy of God to save him. “Why boastest thou thyself in mischief, O mighty man? the goodness of God endureth continually. The tongue deviseth mischiefs; like a sharp razor, working deceitfully. Thou lovest evil more than good; and lying rather than to speak righteousness. Selah. But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God: I trust in the mercy of God for ever and ever. I will praise thee for ever, because thou hast done it: and I will wait on thy name; for it is good before thy saints.” - Psalm 52:1-3,8,9. Mercy is another word for having compassion or sympathy for someone, David knew God would have compassion and show him what to do. God has mercy for everyone who calls on Him for help. Incidentally, an olive requires a long, hot growing season to properly ripen the fruit, without the right soil and sunlight it will not produce good fruit. The same is true for us, we need a long season to grow as a Christian and if we are not planted in God's Word we will not get the right amount of sun light to grow.
David too expressed the feeling of wanting to run away from his problems, he did for a little while, but realized he did not have wings like a dove, and he could not fly away. Instead, he committed his sorrows to God and trusted solely in Him, reminding himself what He had done from his youth. “Give ear to my prayer, O God; and hide not thyself from my supplication. Attend unto me, and hear me: I mourn in my complaint, and make a noise; Because of the voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked: for they cast iniquity upon me, and in wrath they hate me. My heart is sore pained within me: and the terrors of death are fallen upon me. Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me. And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest. Lo, then would I wander far off, and remain in the wilderness. Selah....As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me. Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice. He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me.” - Psalm 55:1-7,16-18. David had assurance that his God was able to sustain him in every trial and would accomplish His purpose for his life. We too have the same assurance as we trust in the Lord Jesus Christ to save us. Praise God!
Every servant of God probably has had similar experiences. Since we are the Lord's servants, we should not be greatly surprised when we are disappointed, deceived, or even betrayed by others. In fact, the wounds that cut us the deepest are sometimes inflicted by those who are closest to our hearts. The one thing we need to remember is that God is always with us and is for us, not against us. “When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me. In God will I praise his word: in the LORD will I praise his word. In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me. Thy vows are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee. For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living?” - Psalm 56:9-13.
We are to put our trust in the Lord to help us overcome all the problems we face, whether we created them or not. He alone is our defense, our protection system, against all that oppose us. “Because of his strength will I wait upon thee: for God is my defence. The God of my mercy shall prevent me: God shall let me see my desire upon mine enemies. Slay them not, lest my people forget: scatter them by thy power; and bring them down, O Lord our shield. For the sin of their mouth and the words of their lips let them even be taken in their pride: and for cursing and lying which they speak. Consume them in wrath, consume them, that they may not be: and let them know that God ruleth in Jacob unto the ends of the earth. Selah.” - Psalm 59:9-13. David prayed that God would not be merciful to his enemies, since God cannot be merciful to any sinner who does not repent of his sins. True repentance prepares our hearts to receive Christ as our Savior and allows Him to become Lord of our lives in obedience to His Word. When we obey His Word and are reminded that we can overcome all things through Christ, we receive God's help, and soon the problems will come to pass so we are better prepared for the next set of problems to come our way. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and your Independence.
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 July 04, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Psalms, chapters 52-59. 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-july-4
Today's Message: Facing Problems
We are all going to face problems in our lives, sometimes we create them all on our own and sometimes they just show up out of no where, but regardless of how we get them we have to face them. We can not run from our problems, they always follow us and tend to get even bigger. I remember when I was going through a bad year thinking, if I could just get away from it all. I ended up spending six months in New York, I thought by ignoring them they would go away, but they never went away. They just kept building up like a storm, then it was like a hurricane hit me. I ended up going through several more years of problems and unnecessary suffering because I did not want to just deal with the problems as I should have. God allows us to go through these problems and to even run for a while in order to get us to realize we can not run from them and we need help to overcome them. Of course, it is usually when we are going through the worse times in our lives that we do realize that. Instead of running from the problems we need to face them, this time with God showing us how to handle them.
David had an incident between his sons Amnon, Absalom, and Absalom's sister, Tamar, Amnon raped Tamar (II Samuel 13). When David heard about what happened he decided to ignore the problem rather than deal with it. The result, Absalom ended up having Amnon killed and now he is trying to kill his own father in order to reign as king. Talk about someone who must have been regretting that he never dealt with the problem. The truth is when we ignore things all we are doing is allowing the person or things creating the problem think they have control and they do as long as we ignore them. So, here is David discouraged and on top of his son deceiving him, his beloved friend was also (II Samuel 15-17). Yet, he put his trust in the mercy of God to save him. “Why boastest thou thyself in mischief, O mighty man? the goodness of God endureth continually. The tongue deviseth mischiefs; like a sharp razor, working deceitfully. Thou lovest evil more than good; and lying rather than to speak righteousness. Selah. But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God: I trust in the mercy of God for ever and ever. I will praise thee for ever, because thou hast done it: and I will wait on thy name; for it is good before thy saints.” - Psalm 52:1-3,8,9. Mercy is another word for having compassion or sympathy for someone, David knew God would have compassion and show him what to do. God has mercy for everyone who calls on Him for help. Incidentally, an olive requires a long, hot growing season to properly ripen the fruit, without the right soil and sunlight it will not produce good fruit. The same is true for us, we need a long season to grow as a Christian and if we are not planted in God's Word we will not get the right amount of sun light to grow.
David too expressed the feeling of wanting to run away from his problems, he did for a little while, but realized he did not have wings like a dove, and he could not fly away. Instead, he committed his sorrows to God and trusted solely in Him, reminding himself what He had done from his youth. “Give ear to my prayer, O God; and hide not thyself from my supplication. Attend unto me, and hear me: I mourn in my complaint, and make a noise; Because of the voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked: for they cast iniquity upon me, and in wrath they hate me. My heart is sore pained within me: and the terrors of death are fallen upon me. Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me. And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest. Lo, then would I wander far off, and remain in the wilderness. Selah....As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me. Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice. He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me.” - Psalm 55:1-7,16-18. David had assurance that his God was able to sustain him in every trial and would accomplish His purpose for his life. We too have the same assurance as we trust in the Lord Jesus Christ to save us. Praise God!
Every servant of God probably has had similar experiences. Since we are the Lord's servants, we should not be greatly surprised when we are disappointed, deceived, or even betrayed by others. In fact, the wounds that cut us the deepest are sometimes inflicted by those who are closest to our hearts. The one thing we need to remember is that God is always with us and is for us, not against us. “When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me. In God will I praise his word: in the LORD will I praise his word. In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me. Thy vows are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee. For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living?” - Psalm 56:9-13.
We are to put our trust in the Lord to help us overcome all the problems we face, whether we created them or not. He alone is our defense, our protection system, against all that oppose us. “Because of his strength will I wait upon thee: for God is my defence. The God of my mercy shall prevent me: God shall let me see my desire upon mine enemies. Slay them not, lest my people forget: scatter them by thy power; and bring them down, O Lord our shield. For the sin of their mouth and the words of their lips let them even be taken in their pride: and for cursing and lying which they speak. Consume them in wrath, consume them, that they may not be: and let them know that God ruleth in Jacob unto the ends of the earth. Selah.” - Psalm 59:9-13. David prayed that God would not be merciful to his enemies, since God cannot be merciful to any sinner who does not repent of his sins. True repentance prepares our hearts to receive Christ as our Savior and allows Him to become Lord of our lives in obedience to His Word. When we obey His Word and are reminded that we can overcome all things through Christ, we receive God's help, and soon the problems will come to pass so we are better prepared for the next set of problems to come our way. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and your Independence.
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:
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