Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Saturday August 07, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Isaiah, chapters 32-37. 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-august-7
Today's Message: What is The Truth?
It is incredible and ridiculous to see all the different religions, churches, and books created to look like a Bible out there. All you have to do is get a group of disgruntled people together and a new religion, church, and book is created, claiming that what they are telling you is the truth. It is no wonder people avoid the truth because they do not know what the truth is. Jesus Said, “And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here is Christ; or, lo, he is there; believe him not: For false Christs and false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect. But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things. But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken.” - Mark 13:21-25. We are only at the beginning of the great tribulation. The false prophets are here, they know just a little bit of the truth to get people thinking they are telling the whole truth. Don't believe me? There are several, Jehovah's Witness, Mormons, and Church of Christ to name a few, I am not picking on any religion, just stating the truth.
So, how do you know the truth? God's Word. “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.” - I John 4:1-3. The only way to know the truth is to learn it from God's Word, the Holy Bible, not some book or version written by a man trying to tell you what the Bible says. Any religion, church, or book that denies that Jesus and God are one, meaning Jesus is God in the flesh then your book, religion, and or church is deceiving you.
Jesus will return and when that happens every person left here on earth will have to figure our for themselves which Christ is the True Christ as they will not have the Holy Spirit to show them the truth. This was prophesied by Isaiah, “Behold, a king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall rule in judgment. And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land. And the eyes of them that see shall not be dim, and the ears of them that hear shall hearken. The heart also of the rash shall understand knowledge, and the tongue of the stammerers shall be ready to speak plainly. The vile person shall be no more called liberal, nor the churl said to be bountiful. For the vile person will speak villany, and his heart will work iniquity, to practise hypocrisy, and to utter error against the LORD, to make empty the soul of the hungry, and he will cause the drink of the thirsty to fail.” - Isaiah 32:1-6. A covert is a place to hide from the storms. Whereas "the rivers of waters in a dry place" are the waters that come from the throne of God, which is the truth of His Word. When you drink from that water you will never thirst again. That water is what is taught from the Word of God by a true teacher, and not a mixture from the traditions and doctrines of men. It will be filling like a fresh drink of water to a starving man. Jesus Christ is that great Rock that stands in this weary land with all of its many problems, and when we stand upon that Rock we have a covert from worldly problems and learn that no matter what we see through this great tribulation we are covered. Praise God!
God is mad and He is warning everyone that they better get on His good side before it is too late. “Come near, ye nations, to hear; and hearken, ye people: let the earth hear, and all that is therein; the world, and all things that come forth of it. For the indignation of the LORD is upon all nations, and his fury upon all their armies: he hath utterly destroyed them, he hath delivered them to the slaughter. Their slain also shall be cast out, and their stink shall come up out of their carcases, and the mountains shall be melted with their blood. And all the host of heaven shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll: and all their host shall fall down, as the leaf falleth off from the vine, and as a falling fig from the fig tree. For my sword shall be bathed in heaven: behold, it shall come down upon Idumea, and upon the people of my curse, to judgment.... For it is the day of the LORD's vengeance, and the year of recompences for the controversy of Zion....Seek ye out of the book of the LORD, and read: no one of these shall fail, none shall want her mate: for my mouth it hath commanded, and his spirit it hath gathered them.” - Isaiah 34:1-5,8,16. God's judgment is coming and one day all nations will be face His wrath. This is a prophecy of the wars of the Lord, all which are both righteous and successful. The description of bloodshed suggests tremendous ideas of God's judgment upon the false prophets. Idumea here illustrates nations at enmity with the church, known as the kingdom of antichrist. There is a time fixed in the Divine counsels for the deliverance of the church, and the destruction of her enemies.
God's Word is the only defense we have against the false prophets and scholars claiming they know the truth. Jesus often talked in parables (short stores containing truth) He explains how people see and handle the Word of God. “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.” - Luke 8:11-15. Only those who believe in and accept Jesus Christ, will be saved and those who are saved will not allow any adversity to change their mind about Him.
Those who stand by God's Word will see joy through all tribulation, through Isaiah, God confirms this, “The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the LORD, and the excellency of our God. Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees. Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompence; he will come and save you. Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.” - Isaiah 35:1-6. Assurance is given of the approach of Messiah, to take vengeance on the powers of darkness, to recompense with abundant comforts those that mourn in Zion; He will come and save. He will come again at the end of time, to punish those who have troubled his people; and to give those who were troubled such rest as will be a full reward for all their troubles. Praise God!
Now, I know some will try to say that the Holy Bible was written by men, but the word written actually means to put language down on paper, meaning to record something on paper with a writing instrument. God choose forty men to record His Words on paper for all to understand and learn His language. Just yesterday I was looking up something on the internet and saw this debate going on about the Bible not being suited for our world today. I know this debate has been going on for years and that is their excuse as to why all we have all these different versions, but did you know that every time a new version is produced at least 20% of God's Word is removed or changed to comply with copy write laws? Now, these versions are written by men, in fact, they are by Satan. You think he does not know the Bible? He too, knows just enough Scripture to deceive people. And these people wonder why the world is in such chaos? Satan knows and so do these false prophets. You do not have to believe me, it is all in the Bible. “Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.” - Proverbs 30:5. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and weekend.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
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Saturday, August 7, 2010
Friday, August 6, 2010
Bible Study: From Babes to Adults in Christ 08.06.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Friday August 06, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Isaiah, chapters 27-31. 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-august-6
Today's Message: From Babes to Adults in Christ
As Christians it can be hard to stand your ground and stay in the will of God, especially when adversity comes your way, but when you do, you realize just how awesome and mighty God is as He turns that adversity into triumph. Praise God! But all too often, this is where many Christians fall, they are just so ignorant to the Word of God that it keeps them out of the will of God. Why would that make a difference? If you do not know God's Word you will not be in His will because you would not know what His will is. “Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.” - I Peter 2:1-3. It is God's Word that teaches us the will of God, it helps us grow from babes in Christ into adults in Christ. Think about it. It would be pretty silly to see an adult in diapers because the parents did not train him when he was a baby. Therefore, if we want to grow as a Christian and stay in the will of God we need to drink the milk of God's Word and be trained by God Himself, who is our heavenly Father, to know His will.
We are not the first generation to be in ignorance to the Word of God, since God created Adam and Eve all generations have been ignorant to His Word. All it took was one man to disobey God and look at where we are today. God even chose to pick one nation that would represent Him and show the world how blessed they were by being obedient to Him, but that did not work either. Sometimes I envy the Israelites, they saw God do things that were so miraculous, yet were always complaining about something. Then again, He does the miraculous every day and yet I still complain as well. It is no wonder God is so angry with us? Isaiah prophesied about nations that would slowly come apart because of their ignorance, the first Jerusalem. “When the boughs thereof are withered, they shall be broken off: the women come, and set them on fire: for it is a people of no understanding: therefore he that made them will not have mercy on them, and he that formed them will shew them no favour. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the LORD shall beat off from the channel of the river unto the stream of Egypt, and ye shall be gathered one by one, O ye children of Israel. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the great trumpet shall be blown, and they shall come which were ready to perish in the land of Assyria, and the outcasts in the land of Egypt, and shall worship the LORD in the holy mount at Jerusalem.” - Isaiah 27:11-13. The northern kingdom of Israel was enjoying great prosperity when God led Isaiah to prophesy its coming captivity by Assyria. Sometimes we all think that if we avoid something it will prevent us from getting hurt, while this works to avoid walking into danger it does not work when trying to avoid something that is inevitable. For instance, I allowed some people to stay at my house once, it was a mess and I went out of town thinking if I avoid them everything would be back to normal when I got back. Three months later I cam e back to a destroyed house and sleeping on a back porch. Of course, God did not take first place in my life then either. The only way to avoid the consequences of our actions is to avoid those actions in the first place.
As we grow from babes in Christ to adults in Christ it is important that we never stop obtaining the knowledge that is contained in God's Word. Of course, we will never learn everything the Bible has to tell us, but that should never stop us from trying. Like I said earlier, we are not the first generation to be ignorant to God's Word, God addresses this through Isaiah. “Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.” - Isaiah 28:9-11. A Christian grows little by little, reading God's Word over and over and over again. The King James Version of the Bible is the only translation available in languages for 90% of the world population and is counting. So, it is God's intention for every person to have a the knowledge of His Word at some point in their lives in their own language.
As adults in Christ we are to be teachers of God's Word, the main doctrine is of course, the Gospel of Christ, even babes in Christ can teach others about the Gospel. In fact, just last night a couple at my church who are new converts went soul winning last night and the husband led a man to Christ. As we learn more of God's Word we can teach more of it. “For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” - Hebrews 5:12-14. God's Word helps us discern the good from the bad and allows us to teach it to others. This is the reason why I have been doing these Bible studies for the past three years, it keeps me learning and teaching others.
Christ is coming and whether we are Christians or not adversity will come our way, but as long as we have Christ we can see triumph through the affliction, we just need to keep walking and growing in the Word of God. “And therefore will the LORD wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: for the LORD is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for him. For the people shall dwell in Zion at Jerusalem: thou shalt weep no more: he will be very gracious unto thee at the voice of thy cry; when he shall hear it, he will answer thee. And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity, and the water of affliction, yet shall not thy teachers be removed into a corner any more, but thine eyes shall see thy teachers: And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.” - Isaiah 30:18-21. For all who have not heard the Gospel and don't possess a Bible, it is our responsibility to let them know what God has said. We can praise the Lord that while there is life in us here on earth that we can at least present the Gospel to our family and friends, if they do not accept than at least we did our part. Remember, God will never leave nor forsake those whom have trusted Christ and are obedient to all of His Word. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and your weekend
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
Be 100% Sure
http://www.godsprice.com
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http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
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Today is Friday August 06, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Isaiah, chapters 27-31. 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-august-6
Today's Message: From Babes to Adults in Christ
As Christians it can be hard to stand your ground and stay in the will of God, especially when adversity comes your way, but when you do, you realize just how awesome and mighty God is as He turns that adversity into triumph. Praise God! But all too often, this is where many Christians fall, they are just so ignorant to the Word of God that it keeps them out of the will of God. Why would that make a difference? If you do not know God's Word you will not be in His will because you would not know what His will is. “Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.” - I Peter 2:1-3. It is God's Word that teaches us the will of God, it helps us grow from babes in Christ into adults in Christ. Think about it. It would be pretty silly to see an adult in diapers because the parents did not train him when he was a baby. Therefore, if we want to grow as a Christian and stay in the will of God we need to drink the milk of God's Word and be trained by God Himself, who is our heavenly Father, to know His will.
We are not the first generation to be in ignorance to the Word of God, since God created Adam and Eve all generations have been ignorant to His Word. All it took was one man to disobey God and look at where we are today. God even chose to pick one nation that would represent Him and show the world how blessed they were by being obedient to Him, but that did not work either. Sometimes I envy the Israelites, they saw God do things that were so miraculous, yet were always complaining about something. Then again, He does the miraculous every day and yet I still complain as well. It is no wonder God is so angry with us? Isaiah prophesied about nations that would slowly come apart because of their ignorance, the first Jerusalem. “When the boughs thereof are withered, they shall be broken off: the women come, and set them on fire: for it is a people of no understanding: therefore he that made them will not have mercy on them, and he that formed them will shew them no favour. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the LORD shall beat off from the channel of the river unto the stream of Egypt, and ye shall be gathered one by one, O ye children of Israel. And it shall come to pass in that day, that the great trumpet shall be blown, and they shall come which were ready to perish in the land of Assyria, and the outcasts in the land of Egypt, and shall worship the LORD in the holy mount at Jerusalem.” - Isaiah 27:11-13. The northern kingdom of Israel was enjoying great prosperity when God led Isaiah to prophesy its coming captivity by Assyria. Sometimes we all think that if we avoid something it will prevent us from getting hurt, while this works to avoid walking into danger it does not work when trying to avoid something that is inevitable. For instance, I allowed some people to stay at my house once, it was a mess and I went out of town thinking if I avoid them everything would be back to normal when I got back. Three months later I cam e back to a destroyed house and sleeping on a back porch. Of course, God did not take first place in my life then either. The only way to avoid the consequences of our actions is to avoid those actions in the first place.
As we grow from babes in Christ to adults in Christ it is important that we never stop obtaining the knowledge that is contained in God's Word. Of course, we will never learn everything the Bible has to tell us, but that should never stop us from trying. Like I said earlier, we are not the first generation to be ignorant to God's Word, God addresses this through Isaiah. “Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.” - Isaiah 28:9-11. A Christian grows little by little, reading God's Word over and over and over again. The King James Version of the Bible is the only translation available in languages for 90% of the world population and is counting. So, it is God's intention for every person to have a the knowledge of His Word at some point in their lives in their own language.
As adults in Christ we are to be teachers of God's Word, the main doctrine is of course, the Gospel of Christ, even babes in Christ can teach others about the Gospel. In fact, just last night a couple at my church who are new converts went soul winning last night and the husband led a man to Christ. As we learn more of God's Word we can teach more of it. “For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” - Hebrews 5:12-14. God's Word helps us discern the good from the bad and allows us to teach it to others. This is the reason why I have been doing these Bible studies for the past three years, it keeps me learning and teaching others.
Christ is coming and whether we are Christians or not adversity will come our way, but as long as we have Christ we can see triumph through the affliction, we just need to keep walking and growing in the Word of God. “And therefore will the LORD wait, that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: for the LORD is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for him. For the people shall dwell in Zion at Jerusalem: thou shalt weep no more: he will be very gracious unto thee at the voice of thy cry; when he shall hear it, he will answer thee. And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity, and the water of affliction, yet shall not thy teachers be removed into a corner any more, but thine eyes shall see thy teachers: And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.” - Isaiah 30:18-21. For all who have not heard the Gospel and don't possess a Bible, it is our responsibility to let them know what God has said. We can praise the Lord that while there is life in us here on earth that we can at least present the Gospel to our family and friends, if they do not accept than at least we did our part. Remember, God will never leave nor forsake those whom have trusted Christ and are obedient to all of His Word. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and your weekend
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
Be 100% Sure
http://www.godsprice.com
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http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
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Thursday, August 5, 2010
Bible Study: Perfect Peace 08.05.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Thursday August 05, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Isaiah, chapters 22-26. 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-august-5
Today's Message: Perfect Peace
Did you ever notice the waves of the ocean coming on to the beach? It is such a beautiful sight, and amazing when you think about just how wonderful a God we have to create such beauty. God's peace is illustrated by the waves as they go back and forth on to the shore, carrying them back into the ocean, never to be seen again. “He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me.” - Psalm 55:18. Now, think about your salvation, when you got saved all the sin in your life was carried away like the waves, never to be seen again. Praise God! True peace only comes from the Author of peace, our Lord Jesus Christ. In the midst of all joys, trials, and difficulties we can live in peace through Jesus Christ. We have to face the fact that many of the prophecies of Isaiah have and are coming to pass as we speak. It is only a matter of time before we see the return of Jesus and all the destruction that will take place upon His arrival. However, “Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day. 11Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” - II Thessalonians 1:6-12.
Isaiah's prophecy was first directed to Judah, then to Israel, then to the surrounding Gentile nations, and finally to all the world. Just as surely as many of the prophecies were fulfilled in ancient history, we can also expect that the Messiah Jesus will return as Christ the King. Isaiah 22 starts out with "The burden of the valley of vision"; it is not a warning, but an oracle written to and about Jerusalem. An "oracle" is an Divinely inspired writing of inspiration and revelation. Jerusalem is called the "valley of vision" because of the hills that it is built on, and around. It is a city of valleys, of Kedren, Megiddo, and so on. So what this chapter is talking about is the city of Jerusalem, and an inspiring revelation that will be given about her. “The burden of the valley of vision. What aileth thee now, that thou art wholly gone up to the housetops? Thou that art full of stirs, a tumultuous city, joyous city: thy slain men are not slain with the sword, nor dead in battle. All thy rulers are fled together, they are bound by the archers: all that are found in thee are bound together, which have fled from far. Therefore said I, Look away from me; I will weep bitterly, labour not to comfort me, because of the spoiling of the daughter of my people. For it is a day of trouble, and of treading down, and of perplexity by the Lord GOD of hosts in the valley of vision, breaking down the walls, and of crying to the mountains.” - Isaiah 22:1-5. This means that these people will be taken in a spiritual death by believing that Satan, who will be playing many roles including the role of Messiah, and they believe him to be God. In history, when both the Assyrian army came against the house of Israel, and the Babylonian army came against the house of Judah, their leaders ran. They snuck through the wall at night and ran from the enemy. Those that gave the commands to fight had fled afar. After the battle when the fighting is over, these so-called leaders will see what they have done, and will weep bitterly for the shame that they have brought upon themselves. When the spoiling takes place after the war, after the battle is lost and the leaders are gone, the people will see what they have done to themselves, and they will not want anyone to look at them because of the shame that they feel about themselves. This is why the prophet says there will be great shame on all of them.
It is a bit scary to see the many prophecies of the “sign of the times” taking place, but we have nothing to worry about because we are God's elect, those whom have accepted the true Christ into their lives. We can rejoice in our Salvation knowing that none of us have to face that horrible day. “O Lord, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth. For thou hast made of a city an heap; of a defenced city a ruin: a palace of strangers to be no city; it shall never be built. Therefore shall the strong people glorify thee, the city of the terrible nations shall fear thee. For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall... He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken it. And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the LORD; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.” - Isaiah 25:1-4,8,9.
We often forfeit peace by choosing to disobey His Word. Disobedience causes guilt and guilt robs us of His peace. However, no matter what one has done, he can find peace again, perfect peace. “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength: For he bringeth down them that dwell on high; the lofty city, he layeth it low; he layeth it low, even to the ground; he bringeth it even to the dust.” Isaiah 26:3-5. If His perfect peace is to be experienced we must trust in Jesus and be born again. “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.” - John 3:5-7. All who believe in and accept Jesus Christ as their Savior are born again and will find perfect peace.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
Be 100% Sure
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http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
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Today is Thursday August 05, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Isaiah, chapters 22-26. 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-august-5
Today's Message: Perfect Peace
Did you ever notice the waves of the ocean coming on to the beach? It is such a beautiful sight, and amazing when you think about just how wonderful a God we have to create such beauty. God's peace is illustrated by the waves as they go back and forth on to the shore, carrying them back into the ocean, never to be seen again. “He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me.” - Psalm 55:18. Now, think about your salvation, when you got saved all the sin in your life was carried away like the waves, never to be seen again. Praise God! True peace only comes from the Author of peace, our Lord Jesus Christ. In the midst of all joys, trials, and difficulties we can live in peace through Jesus Christ. We have to face the fact that many of the prophecies of Isaiah have and are coming to pass as we speak. It is only a matter of time before we see the return of Jesus and all the destruction that will take place upon His arrival. However, “Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day. 11Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” - II Thessalonians 1:6-12.
Isaiah's prophecy was first directed to Judah, then to Israel, then to the surrounding Gentile nations, and finally to all the world. Just as surely as many of the prophecies were fulfilled in ancient history, we can also expect that the Messiah Jesus will return as Christ the King. Isaiah 22 starts out with "The burden of the valley of vision"; it is not a warning, but an oracle written to and about Jerusalem. An "oracle" is an Divinely inspired writing of inspiration and revelation. Jerusalem is called the "valley of vision" because of the hills that it is built on, and around. It is a city of valleys, of Kedren, Megiddo, and so on. So what this chapter is talking about is the city of Jerusalem, and an inspiring revelation that will be given about her. “The burden of the valley of vision. What aileth thee now, that thou art wholly gone up to the housetops? Thou that art full of stirs, a tumultuous city, joyous city: thy slain men are not slain with the sword, nor dead in battle. All thy rulers are fled together, they are bound by the archers: all that are found in thee are bound together, which have fled from far. Therefore said I, Look away from me; I will weep bitterly, labour not to comfort me, because of the spoiling of the daughter of my people. For it is a day of trouble, and of treading down, and of perplexity by the Lord GOD of hosts in the valley of vision, breaking down the walls, and of crying to the mountains.” - Isaiah 22:1-5. This means that these people will be taken in a spiritual death by believing that Satan, who will be playing many roles including the role of Messiah, and they believe him to be God. In history, when both the Assyrian army came against the house of Israel, and the Babylonian army came against the house of Judah, their leaders ran. They snuck through the wall at night and ran from the enemy. Those that gave the commands to fight had fled afar. After the battle when the fighting is over, these so-called leaders will see what they have done, and will weep bitterly for the shame that they have brought upon themselves. When the spoiling takes place after the war, after the battle is lost and the leaders are gone, the people will see what they have done to themselves, and they will not want anyone to look at them because of the shame that they feel about themselves. This is why the prophet says there will be great shame on all of them.
It is a bit scary to see the many prophecies of the “sign of the times” taking place, but we have nothing to worry about because we are God's elect, those whom have accepted the true Christ into their lives. We can rejoice in our Salvation knowing that none of us have to face that horrible day. “O Lord, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth. For thou hast made of a city an heap; of a defenced city a ruin: a palace of strangers to be no city; it shall never be built. Therefore shall the strong people glorify thee, the city of the terrible nations shall fear thee. For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall... He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken it. And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the LORD; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation.” - Isaiah 25:1-4,8,9.
We often forfeit peace by choosing to disobey His Word. Disobedience causes guilt and guilt robs us of His peace. However, no matter what one has done, he can find peace again, perfect peace. “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength: For he bringeth down them that dwell on high; the lofty city, he layeth it low; he layeth it low, even to the ground; he bringeth it even to the dust.” Isaiah 26:3-5. If His perfect peace is to be experienced we must trust in Jesus and be born again. “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.” - John 3:5-7. All who believe in and accept Jesus Christ as their Savior are born again and will find perfect peace.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Bible Study: Walk In The Light 08.04.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Wednesday August 04, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Isaiah, chapters 15-21. 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-august-4
Today's Message: Walk In The Light
I just spent the last two days on a mini vacation and went to a couple of theme parks, it is amazing to see how much and how sincere these places are in trying to teach everyone about conservation of the earth. They are trying so hard to get people to see just how important it is to respect the earth and take care of dwelling place of our physical bodies as well as all of God's creation. Yet even in a place that strives on taking care of the environment there are selfish, disrespectful people who can care less and continue to destroy the earth. Think I am exaggerating? Take a look at all the trash left behind in places after people leave a show. While we can all be a little more respectful to the earth that God created for us to dwell on, it is sad to see all their efforts to conserve the earth when it's destruction is inevitable. They are ignorant to the fact that God's judgment is taking place as we speak and those who do know are afraid to speak up so they do not offend anyone. Speaking of offending people? Have you ever noticed how differently people act when it gets dark outside? My goodness, the wicked sure love darkness. The Bible Says, “The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.” - Proverbs 4:19. I am not trying to judge anyone, but I watched people instantly turn from good to wicked as soon as it got dark, drinking, dancing, and acting like fools on a video camera for all to see how ridiculous were acting. On top of that, the camera man replayed some of them, boasting their foolishness even more.
After watching how foolish some of those people looked I could not help, but say a prayer to God and thank Him for forgiving me for being one of these fools. As Christians we can rejoice in the fact that we too were once fools and may have been ignorant to the truth, but now are wide awake and sober, awaiting the glorious return of our Savior, Jesus Christ. “Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.” - I Thessalonians 5:5-8. We should be all grateful that we no longer walk in the dark, but are protected and guided by our light, who is Jesus Christ. Praise God! Of course, it is scary at times to realize that the world we call home will one day be no more, but as Christians we do not have to fear the inevitable because we know that even though we are going to suffer a bit we have the Lord Jesus Christ protecting us and guiding us with His wonderful light. Praise God!
As we read through the Book of Isaiah we learn of great prophecies, some of which came true already, some are of Christ's reign when He returns and becomes King over all. In today's reading, the prophet Isaiah was led to turn his thoughts from the glorious future reign of the King of Peace to proclaim the judgment of God upon the unbelieving. “The burden of Moab. Because in the night Ar of Moab is laid waste, and brought to silence; because in the night Kir of Moab is laid waste, and brought to silence; He is gone up to Bajith, and to Dibon, the high places, to weep: Moab shall howl over Nebo, and over Medeba: on all their heads shall be baldness, and every beard cut off. In their streets they shall gird themselves with sackcloth: on the tops of their houses, and in their streets, every one shall howl, weeping abundantly. And Heshbon shall cry, and Elealeh: their voice shall be heard even unto Jahaz: therefore the armed soldiers of Moab shall cry out; his life shall be grievous unto him. My heart shall cry out for Moab; his fugitives shall flee unto Zoar, an heifer of three years old: for by the mounting up of Luhith with weeping shall they go it up; for in the way of Horonaim they shall raise up a cry of destruction.” -Isaiah 15:1-5. Those who are eager to get abundance of this world, and to lay up what they have gotten, little consider how soon it may be all taken from them. While we warn our enemies to escape from ruin, let us pray for them, that they may seek and find forgiveness of their sins and too come to see the light.
When the Christian looks out upon the world, he sees himself surrounded as by a dark night of unbelief and sin. It is only when he allows the light to shine on him that he will live by the truth and not get caught up in the world's corruption. “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.” - John 3:19-21. God's children alone have a glorious light within them and as long as we walk in His light we can not fall into the darkness. The entire time we were in the midst of all that darkness I was praying to God to block my mind from any corruption until we were able to get out of there. When one walks in the light they no longer want to stumble over what is in the dark.
There was nothing for Judah to look forward to except a long and dark night of Babylonian captivity. Many times, God's people have had to face a crisis before they would humble themselves and repent of sin, turning to the Lord with all their hearts. If we are to gain the most out of our short lives, it is of utmost importance that we do not allow anything to keep us from following the light lead by Christ. Jesus Said, “And he that seeth me seeth him that sent me. I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness. And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.” - John 12:45-47. Jesus does not force anyone to come to Him, He judges no one, but saves all who do come to Him to walk in the light. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
P.S. I apologize for not posting for a couple of days, all will resume to normal, thank you.
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
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Today is Wednesday August 04, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Isaiah, chapters 15-21. 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-august-4
Today's Message: Walk In The Light
I just spent the last two days on a mini vacation and went to a couple of theme parks, it is amazing to see how much and how sincere these places are in trying to teach everyone about conservation of the earth. They are trying so hard to get people to see just how important it is to respect the earth and take care of dwelling place of our physical bodies as well as all of God's creation. Yet even in a place that strives on taking care of the environment there are selfish, disrespectful people who can care less and continue to destroy the earth. Think I am exaggerating? Take a look at all the trash left behind in places after people leave a show. While we can all be a little more respectful to the earth that God created for us to dwell on, it is sad to see all their efforts to conserve the earth when it's destruction is inevitable. They are ignorant to the fact that God's judgment is taking place as we speak and those who do know are afraid to speak up so they do not offend anyone. Speaking of offending people? Have you ever noticed how differently people act when it gets dark outside? My goodness, the wicked sure love darkness. The Bible Says, “The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble.” - Proverbs 4:19. I am not trying to judge anyone, but I watched people instantly turn from good to wicked as soon as it got dark, drinking, dancing, and acting like fools on a video camera for all to see how ridiculous were acting. On top of that, the camera man replayed some of them, boasting their foolishness even more.
After watching how foolish some of those people looked I could not help, but say a prayer to God and thank Him for forgiving me for being one of these fools. As Christians we can rejoice in the fact that we too were once fools and may have been ignorant to the truth, but now are wide awake and sober, awaiting the glorious return of our Savior, Jesus Christ. “Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.” - I Thessalonians 5:5-8. We should be all grateful that we no longer walk in the dark, but are protected and guided by our light, who is Jesus Christ. Praise God! Of course, it is scary at times to realize that the world we call home will one day be no more, but as Christians we do not have to fear the inevitable because we know that even though we are going to suffer a bit we have the Lord Jesus Christ protecting us and guiding us with His wonderful light. Praise God!
As we read through the Book of Isaiah we learn of great prophecies, some of which came true already, some are of Christ's reign when He returns and becomes King over all. In today's reading, the prophet Isaiah was led to turn his thoughts from the glorious future reign of the King of Peace to proclaim the judgment of God upon the unbelieving. “The burden of Moab. Because in the night Ar of Moab is laid waste, and brought to silence; because in the night Kir of Moab is laid waste, and brought to silence; He is gone up to Bajith, and to Dibon, the high places, to weep: Moab shall howl over Nebo, and over Medeba: on all their heads shall be baldness, and every beard cut off. In their streets they shall gird themselves with sackcloth: on the tops of their houses, and in their streets, every one shall howl, weeping abundantly. And Heshbon shall cry, and Elealeh: their voice shall be heard even unto Jahaz: therefore the armed soldiers of Moab shall cry out; his life shall be grievous unto him. My heart shall cry out for Moab; his fugitives shall flee unto Zoar, an heifer of three years old: for by the mounting up of Luhith with weeping shall they go it up; for in the way of Horonaim they shall raise up a cry of destruction.” -Isaiah 15:1-5. Those who are eager to get abundance of this world, and to lay up what they have gotten, little consider how soon it may be all taken from them. While we warn our enemies to escape from ruin, let us pray for them, that they may seek and find forgiveness of their sins and too come to see the light.
When the Christian looks out upon the world, he sees himself surrounded as by a dark night of unbelief and sin. It is only when he allows the light to shine on him that he will live by the truth and not get caught up in the world's corruption. “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.” - John 3:19-21. God's children alone have a glorious light within them and as long as we walk in His light we can not fall into the darkness. The entire time we were in the midst of all that darkness I was praying to God to block my mind from any corruption until we were able to get out of there. When one walks in the light they no longer want to stumble over what is in the dark.
There was nothing for Judah to look forward to except a long and dark night of Babylonian captivity. Many times, God's people have had to face a crisis before they would humble themselves and repent of sin, turning to the Lord with all their hearts. If we are to gain the most out of our short lives, it is of utmost importance that we do not allow anything to keep us from following the light lead by Christ. Jesus Said, “And he that seeth me seeth him that sent me. I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness. And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.” - John 12:45-47. Jesus does not force anyone to come to Him, He judges no one, but saves all who do come to Him to walk in the light. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
P.S. I apologize for not posting for a couple of days, all will resume to normal, thank you.
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
Be 100% Sure
http://www.godsprice.com
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http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
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Monday, August 2, 2010
Bible Study: God's Judgment 08.01.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Sunday August 01, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Isaiah, chapters 1-4.
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-august-1
Today's Message: God's Judgment
God has declared that all true worship, sacrifices, and offerings are a delight to Him, but they all become an abomination when offered by those who have no desire to love and serve Him with all their hearts, but use Him to fill their pockets with money. “He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.... And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.” - Revelation 21:7,27. God is referring to all the false prophets, preachers, teachers, and religions deceiving the people. Did you ever wonder why every part of the world is in chaos? All over the world you are hearing about bad economy, wars, natural disasters, and diseases. Yet, all of our leaders are clueless to the fact that we are all facing God's judgment and it is just the beginning. Those of you that are bringing your children up in a Christian home I commend you, it is not easy with all the corruption and wickedness in the world today, yet you endure it all and keep going by your faith and trust in God. So, why is all the world facing God's judgment? Rebellion is the number one cause of all the destruction that is taking place. You know, if these people would just pick up a Bible and read the Old Testament they would see that we are facing the exact same judgment that Israel faced when they turned their backs on God. We as Christians have a lot of work to do, we can not stop God's judgment, but we can be prepared and let others know what is going on so they too can be prepared.
The Book of Isaiah is the twenty-third book of the Old Testament/Bible and contains sixty-six chapters. The author of the book is Isaiah and it was written to Judah and all believers. The purpose of the book was for correction and reproof. What we are to learn from the book is that rebellion leads to retribution (punishment), but repentance leads to restoration. The book of Isaiah is actually a mirror to the entire Bible. The Bible has 66 books. Isaiah has 66 chapters. The Old Testament has 39 books covering the history and sin Israel. The first section of Isaiah has 39 chapters on the same subject. The New Testament has 27 books describing the ministry of Jesus Christ. The last section of Isaiah has 27 chapters describing the same subject. The New Testament begins with the ministry of John the Baptist. The second section of Isaiah begins by predicting his ministry. The New Testament ends by describing the new heavens and earth. Isaiah ends by describing them as well.
Isaiah recorded how the Lord had chosen and provided for the Israelites, only to have them turn against Him by worshiping idols. The Lord lamented that even the animals He had created knew who their Master was, but the sinful Israelites refused to recognize their responsibility to their Master. “Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the LORD hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me. The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master's crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider. Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the LORD, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward.”- Isaiah 1:2-4. Many godly parents are heartbroken when they see their children turning from the Lord. Like our Heavenly Father, they too feel grief over children who are uncommitted to the Lord, to reading the Bible, or to regular worship in a Bible based church. Whether or not our children succeed or fail in their earthly goals, by comparison, it is of little eternal consequence, for only their spiritual achievements will bring true success and eternal rewards.
God has provided His Written Word which guides us through the indwelling Holy Spirit, and teaches us how to experience the joy of forgiveness and deliverance from the guilt and condemnation of sin. “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. There is everything in the character of God, in the ministry of Christ, and in the power of the Holy Spirit to inspire and confirm our confidence in His Word. God is willing to forgive all sinners who will confess and forsake their sins. “All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.” - John 6:37-40. All who accept Jesus as their Savior enjoy everlasting life and will one day get to see Him face to face. That alone is one of the most exciting things to look forward to.
Isaiah prophesied of a coming King who would reign in righteousness and peace over children who had returned to Him. “And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.” - Isaiah 2:2-4. Of course that person is none other than our Lord Jesus Christ. There will be a time when Jesus comes and this prophecy will be fulfilled. “Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.” - Proverbs 30:5. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and an awesome week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven?
Be 100% Sure
http://www.godsprice.com
Visit I'm Following Jesus
http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
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Today is Sunday August 01, 2010 and we are reading through the Bible in a year. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Isaiah, chapters 1-4.
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-august-1
Today's Message: God's Judgment
God has declared that all true worship, sacrifices, and offerings are a delight to Him, but they all become an abomination when offered by those who have no desire to love and serve Him with all their hearts, but use Him to fill their pockets with money. “He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.... And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.” - Revelation 21:7,27. God is referring to all the false prophets, preachers, teachers, and religions deceiving the people. Did you ever wonder why every part of the world is in chaos? All over the world you are hearing about bad economy, wars, natural disasters, and diseases. Yet, all of our leaders are clueless to the fact that we are all facing God's judgment and it is just the beginning. Those of you that are bringing your children up in a Christian home I commend you, it is not easy with all the corruption and wickedness in the world today, yet you endure it all and keep going by your faith and trust in God. So, why is all the world facing God's judgment? Rebellion is the number one cause of all the destruction that is taking place. You know, if these people would just pick up a Bible and read the Old Testament they would see that we are facing the exact same judgment that Israel faced when they turned their backs on God. We as Christians have a lot of work to do, we can not stop God's judgment, but we can be prepared and let others know what is going on so they too can be prepared.
The Book of Isaiah is the twenty-third book of the Old Testament/Bible and contains sixty-six chapters. The author of the book is Isaiah and it was written to Judah and all believers. The purpose of the book was for correction and reproof. What we are to learn from the book is that rebellion leads to retribution (punishment), but repentance leads to restoration. The book of Isaiah is actually a mirror to the entire Bible. The Bible has 66 books. Isaiah has 66 chapters. The Old Testament has 39 books covering the history and sin Israel. The first section of Isaiah has 39 chapters on the same subject. The New Testament has 27 books describing the ministry of Jesus Christ. The last section of Isaiah has 27 chapters describing the same subject. The New Testament begins with the ministry of John the Baptist. The second section of Isaiah begins by predicting his ministry. The New Testament ends by describing the new heavens and earth. Isaiah ends by describing them as well.
Isaiah recorded how the Lord had chosen and provided for the Israelites, only to have them turn against Him by worshiping idols. The Lord lamented that even the animals He had created knew who their Master was, but the sinful Israelites refused to recognize their responsibility to their Master. “Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the LORD hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me. The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master's crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider. Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the LORD, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward.”- Isaiah 1:2-4. Many godly parents are heartbroken when they see their children turning from the Lord. Like our Heavenly Father, they too feel grief over children who are uncommitted to the Lord, to reading the Bible, or to regular worship in a Bible based church. Whether or not our children succeed or fail in their earthly goals, by comparison, it is of little eternal consequence, for only their spiritual achievements will bring true success and eternal rewards.
God has provided His Written Word which guides us through the indwelling Holy Spirit, and teaches us how to experience the joy of forgiveness and deliverance from the guilt and condemnation of sin. “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. There is everything in the character of God, in the ministry of Christ, and in the power of the Holy Spirit to inspire and confirm our confidence in His Word. God is willing to forgive all sinners who will confess and forsake their sins. “All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.” - John 6:37-40. All who accept Jesus as their Savior enjoy everlasting life and will one day get to see Him face to face. That alone is one of the most exciting things to look forward to.
Isaiah prophesied of a coming King who would reign in righteousness and peace over children who had returned to Him. “And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem. And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more.” - Isaiah 2:2-4. Of course that person is none other than our Lord Jesus Christ. There will be a time when Jesus comes and this prophecy will be fulfilled. “Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him.” - Proverbs 30:5. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and an awesome week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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