Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Friday, October 28, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Luke, chapters 19-20. In these chapters we will read about, Zacchaeus, the parable about the Kingdom of God, Jesus entering Jerusalem on a colt as according to the Scriptures, Jesus teaching in the Temple, the parable about the lord of the vineyard, and the God of the living, all Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-october-29
Today's Message: A Child of The Living God
The word sin is defined as a transgression, an illegal, abusive, or immoral action, most people understand sin to be adultery or committing a crime, but sin is more than that, it is any thought, word spoken, or action that is immoral or corrupting as well. For instance, while it is not a sin to be angry, it is a sin to act upon that anger in a vengeful way, while it is not a sin to look at a person, it is a sin to think of them in a lustful way, while it is not a sin to feel good about doing great work, it is a sin to be boastful about it, too proud. The Bible says, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;” - Romans 3:23.
No one is without sin, we have all done something in our lives, no matter how good we try to be, that is sinful. If you think you have never sinned, here is your answer, “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” - I John 1:8-10. Do you know why so many people do not allow God in their lives? They do not want to admit that they have sin in their lives.
God will forgive anyone who comes to Him and confesses that they are sinners, people make the mistake of thinking that God only forgives a certain type of people, but this is false and that is why Jesus met with the rich and the poor. There are actually religions out there that get people to think that they can buy their salvation, this is false the only way to salvation is through Jesus Christ. This is illustrated when Jesus met with a man named Zacchaeus. “And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature. And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully. And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner. And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord: Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold. And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham.”- Luke 19:3-9.
A publican or tax collector was known as the wealthiest, most corrupted position known during that time and Zacchaeus was the leader of them all. A tax collector was in charge of collecting the taxes from the people to give to the government, most tax collectors took more than they needed and pocketed it. When Zacchaeus heard that Jesus was passing by he wanted to see just what Jesus was all about, he was short so he climbed up in a tree to see Him. Little did he know that Jesus was coming right to him, he quickly came down, received Him joyfully and was saved. God will save anyone who wants to be saved, He does not force anyone, it is of our own free will that we go to Him, but we must go to Him. “For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” - Romans 10:10.
The Sadducees did not believe in resurrection, but they tried to debate Jesus, “Saying, Master, Moses wrote unto us, If any man's brother die, having a wife, and he die without children, that his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother....Therefore in the resurrection whose wife of them is she? for seven had her to wife. And Jesus answering said unto them, The children of this world marry, and are given in marriage: But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage: Neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection. Now that the dead are raised, even Moses shewed at the bush, when he calleth the Lord the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. For he is not a God of the dead, but of the living: for all live unto him.”- Luke 20:28,33-38.
If you know Jesus and live by Him than you are always going to have someone try to debate you, that is why it is important that we learn the truth by reading all of God's Word on a regular basis. The religious people were always trying to debate Jesus, they knew just enough Scripture to try and make it look as though they were following God's laws, but all they were doing is making themselves appear righteous before the people. The Scripture that Jesus quoted from came from here, “And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed. And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt. And when the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I.... Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God.” - Exodus 3:1-4,6.
God is God of the living, even when the flesh gives out there is a living soul inside every person who accepts Jesus Christ as their Savior that goes up to heaven until Jesus returns. Moses, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob are all with God up in heaven along with every family member and friend that accepted that they are sinners and asked Jesus to save them. “And it shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people; there shall they be called the children of the living God.” - Romans 9:26. Praise God!
God knows who are His, who will be His, who will not be His, including those who think their religion or works are saving them. “He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” - I John 5:12. If you have been deceived into thinking that your religion, works, or trying to be without sin are what get you to heaven it is time to talk to Jesus and ask Him to save you, He is the only way to eternal life and being a child of the living God.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and weekend.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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Saturday, October 30, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Bible Study: Be Humble & Shout
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Thursday October 28, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Luke, chapters 17-18. In these chapters we will read about, forgiveness, faith, Jesus healing lepers, an unprofitable servant, parables about praying, and Jesus healing a blind man, all Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-october-28
Today's Message: Be Humble & Shout
As Christians it can get pretty lonely at times, family and friends mock and reject you, the world looks at you as though you have some kind of disease, and it seems you face more persecution than you ever did in the world. The truth is, we are not alone, we have the one person with us that never leaves us and that is Jesus Christ. Praise God! The amazing thing is that through all the trials God is directing and guiding you and creating a good work in you. “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” - Philippians 1:6.
Why do we face so much persecution? Our faith. We turn away from the corruption of the world, turn to Jesus and put our faith in and trust in someone that is invisible to them. Jesus said to His disciples, “It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come! It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.”- Luke 17:1-4.
The word offend means to irritate, annoy, or anger, Jesus explains that people are going to be offended by you, it is something that is impossible to avoid, but we do not need to be offended by them because God will take care of them for us, He says, “Just forgive them and I will handle it.” “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” - Romans 12:19-21.
Do you ever feel like people are ungrateful for the things that you do for them? For instance, you are the best employee, but your boss is constantly on you as if you were the worst. Jesus explains this in a rather odd way, “But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat? And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink? Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not. So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.”- Luke 17:7-10.
Why would Jesus command them to say that we are unprofitable servants? Jesus was showing the disciples their need of deep humility, no matter how perfectly we may do our job, it deserves no recognition, it is our duty. Humbling ourselves and pressing forward does bring rewards, “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” - I Peter 5:6,7.
While it may look hopeless, nothing is impossible with God and as long as we hold on tight to our Lord all will come to pass and we will not only be stronger, but even more blessed than we already are. In fact, we can ask God for anything and He will give it to us. The Bible says, “And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” - I John 5:14,15.
How do we ask God for things? We pray, it is the only way we can ask for things and the only way He will give them to us. Jesus spoke this parable about praying, “And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” - Luke 18:9-14.
Remember, exalted means to be praised and honored, those who are humble will be exalted. Then we can ask God of anything and it will get His attention. We are to never stop praying, praying keeps us faithful and strengthens us to handle those that persecute us. If you think that God can not hear you, first of all, make sure you know Jesus personally, if you do not know Jesus, it is simply unprofitable prayer. Secondly, sometimes you have to shout, when everything around you seems chaotic and loud, shout. “O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph.” - Psalm 47:1.
A blind man got Jesus' attention by shouting, “And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging: And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant. And they told him, that Jesus of Nazareth passeth by. And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy on me. And they which went before rebuked him, that he should hold his peace: but he cried so much the more, Thou son of David, have mercy on me. And Jesus stood, and commanded him to be brought unto him: and when he was come near, he asked him, Saying, What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee? And he said, Lord, that I may receive my sight. And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee. And immediately he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God.” - Luke 18:35-43.
Jesus saves and gives mercy to all who have faith in Him and when we are saved we can shout and cry our to Him and He will give us what we are asking for. Keep in mind that God will answer every prayer, but not always in the way we intend. We can not see what is in our future, but God already knows and is preparing us for it. “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” - I Corinthians 2:9. Praise God!
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? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
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Today is Thursday October 28, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Luke, chapters 17-18. In these chapters we will read about, forgiveness, faith, Jesus healing lepers, an unprofitable servant, parables about praying, and Jesus healing a blind man, all Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-october-28
Today's Message: Be Humble & Shout
As Christians it can get pretty lonely at times, family and friends mock and reject you, the world looks at you as though you have some kind of disease, and it seems you face more persecution than you ever did in the world. The truth is, we are not alone, we have the one person with us that never leaves us and that is Jesus Christ. Praise God! The amazing thing is that through all the trials God is directing and guiding you and creating a good work in you. “Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” - Philippians 1:6.
Why do we face so much persecution? Our faith. We turn away from the corruption of the world, turn to Jesus and put our faith in and trust in someone that is invisible to them. Jesus said to His disciples, “It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come! It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones. Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him. And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.”- Luke 17:1-4.
The word offend means to irritate, annoy, or anger, Jesus explains that people are going to be offended by you, it is something that is impossible to avoid, but we do not need to be offended by them because God will take care of them for us, He says, “Just forgive them and I will handle it.” “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” - Romans 12:19-21.
Do you ever feel like people are ungrateful for the things that you do for them? For instance, you are the best employee, but your boss is constantly on you as if you were the worst. Jesus explains this in a rather odd way, “But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat? And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink? Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not. So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.”- Luke 17:7-10.
Why would Jesus command them to say that we are unprofitable servants? Jesus was showing the disciples their need of deep humility, no matter how perfectly we may do our job, it deserves no recognition, it is our duty. Humbling ourselves and pressing forward does bring rewards, “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” - I Peter 5:6,7.
While it may look hopeless, nothing is impossible with God and as long as we hold on tight to our Lord all will come to pass and we will not only be stronger, but even more blessed than we already are. In fact, we can ask God for anything and He will give it to us. The Bible says, “And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” - I John 5:14,15.
How do we ask God for things? We pray, it is the only way we can ask for things and the only way He will give them to us. Jesus spoke this parable about praying, “And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” - Luke 18:9-14.
Remember, exalted means to be praised and honored, those who are humble will be exalted. Then we can ask God of anything and it will get His attention. We are to never stop praying, praying keeps us faithful and strengthens us to handle those that persecute us. If you think that God can not hear you, first of all, make sure you know Jesus personally, if you do not know Jesus, it is simply unprofitable prayer. Secondly, sometimes you have to shout, when everything around you seems chaotic and loud, shout. “O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph.” - Psalm 47:1.
A blind man got Jesus' attention by shouting, “And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging: And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant. And they told him, that Jesus of Nazareth passeth by. And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy on me. And they which went before rebuked him, that he should hold his peace: but he cried so much the more, Thou son of David, have mercy on me. And Jesus stood, and commanded him to be brought unto him: and when he was come near, he asked him, Saying, What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee? And he said, Lord, that I may receive my sight. And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee. And immediately he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God.” - Luke 18:35-43.
Jesus saves and gives mercy to all who have faith in Him and when we are saved we can shout and cry our to Him and He will give us what we are asking for. Keep in mind that God will answer every prayer, but not always in the way we intend. We can not see what is in our future, but God already knows and is preparing us for it. “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” - I Corinthians 2:9. Praise God!
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? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
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Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Bible Study: You Are Invited
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Wednesday October 27, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Luke, chapters 14-16. In these chapters we will read about, Jesus having dinner with some Pharisees, the parable of the wedding feast, rejoicing in heaven, the parable of the prodigal son, and Lazarus, all Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-october-27
Today's Message: You Are Invited
The word bidden means invited or called, the Bible says, “For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” - Romans 10:11-13. That word, whosoever, was put there as an invitation to all, the Lord is Jesus Christ and He has invited you to enjoy all His riches. Have you accepted the invitation? “He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” - I John 5:10-12. Praise God!
There is a song called, “All Who Call Upon The Lord”, a verse says, rich or poor, king or beggar are the same. God is no respecter of persons, He will save all who call upon the Lord. All throughout His earthly ministry you would hear of Jesus eating dinner with the poor, rich, even the Pharisees, whom were completely against Him. Why? In hopes that He would find that one person who would put aside all they have been taught about their religion and trust in Him to accept His invitation. While He already knows who believes in Him and will accept His invitation, it is a matter of them taking that step. While eating with the Pharisees, Jesus explains this in a parable. “When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him; And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room. But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”- Luke 14:8-11.
The word exalted means to be praised, honored, and approved, those who humble themselves before Jesus and accept His invitation are praised by God and will join Him at the feast. The word abased means to be deprived of ones self esteem, dishonored, and disgraced, those who ignore Jesus' invitation and praise themselves are disgraced by God and will not join Him at the feast. However, Jesus never stops inviting anyone, “And he spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.”- Luke 15:3-7.
God, the angels, and everyone else in heaven rejoice when that one person humbles himself before Jesus, acknowledges that he is a sinner, and that only Jesus can save Him, then bows down his head and asks Jesus to save him. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” - Romans 10:9,10. No priest, rabbi, or religion will save us, only by trusting in and confessing to Jesus Himself saves us.
So, you were saved and have gotten away from God? Think you are no longer saved or that God has cast you out? Think again. You are still saved and God loves you all the same. God hates the sin, not the person. Jesus explains this parable. “And he said, A certain man had two sons: And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want. And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.”- Luke 15:11-14,17-20.
Many people fall away from God for a season, but God does know the heart. I was one of those who left Him for a season, I went my own way, thinking I was missing something, I suffered and was ashamed of all that I allowed myself to get into, but I humbled myself, asked God to forgive me, and all of those dumb situations that I had gotten myself into, all on my own, were forgotten and God has given me a richer, more fuller life, with Him in it. Jesus died on the cross once to give us eternal life, that means you only have to get saved once. “Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.” - Hebrews 7:25-27.
Jesus said to the covetous (greedy, jealous) Pharisees who were mocking Him, “Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.” - Luke 16:15. What Jesus is saying is that they appear to the world to be living righteously and as if they know God, but God truly knows their hearts and deception and it is an abomination to Him. The Bible says, “He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” - Revelation 21:7,8. All are invited, but those who do not humble themselves before Jesus and mick Him will not be saved. Praise God that while we are here on earth He we still have a chance to learn, accept, and tell the truth. You know, you are called up to testify in court, you have to say a pledge, “I solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing, but the truth.” If you had to go before the mighty throne and face the judge, Jesus Christ, can you truthfully say with all your heart that you have accepted His invitation? If not, He is calling you right now, accept it and enjoy the feast.
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? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
Want To Receive This Devotion in Your Email?
Subscribe By Sending A Blank Email With the Subject Subscribe to: devotions@imfollowingjesus.com
Today is Wednesday October 27, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Luke, chapters 14-16. In these chapters we will read about, Jesus having dinner with some Pharisees, the parable of the wedding feast, rejoicing in heaven, the parable of the prodigal son, and Lazarus, all Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-october-27
Today's Message: You Are Invited
The word bidden means invited or called, the Bible says, “For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” - Romans 10:11-13. That word, whosoever, was put there as an invitation to all, the Lord is Jesus Christ and He has invited you to enjoy all His riches. Have you accepted the invitation? “He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” - I John 5:10-12. Praise God!
There is a song called, “All Who Call Upon The Lord”, a verse says, rich or poor, king or beggar are the same. God is no respecter of persons, He will save all who call upon the Lord. All throughout His earthly ministry you would hear of Jesus eating dinner with the poor, rich, even the Pharisees, whom were completely against Him. Why? In hopes that He would find that one person who would put aside all they have been taught about their religion and trust in Him to accept His invitation. While He already knows who believes in Him and will accept His invitation, it is a matter of them taking that step. While eating with the Pharisees, Jesus explains this in a parable. “When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him; And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room. But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”- Luke 14:8-11.
The word exalted means to be praised, honored, and approved, those who humble themselves before Jesus and accept His invitation are praised by God and will join Him at the feast. The word abased means to be deprived of ones self esteem, dishonored, and disgraced, those who ignore Jesus' invitation and praise themselves are disgraced by God and will not join Him at the feast. However, Jesus never stops inviting anyone, “And he spake this parable unto them, saying, What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.”- Luke 15:3-7.
God, the angels, and everyone else in heaven rejoice when that one person humbles himself before Jesus, acknowledges that he is a sinner, and that only Jesus can save Him, then bows down his head and asks Jesus to save him. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” - Romans 10:9,10. No priest, rabbi, or religion will save us, only by trusting in and confessing to Jesus Himself saves us.
So, you were saved and have gotten away from God? Think you are no longer saved or that God has cast you out? Think again. You are still saved and God loves you all the same. God hates the sin, not the person. Jesus explains this parable. “And he said, A certain man had two sons: And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want. And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.”- Luke 15:11-14,17-20.
Many people fall away from God for a season, but God does know the heart. I was one of those who left Him for a season, I went my own way, thinking I was missing something, I suffered and was ashamed of all that I allowed myself to get into, but I humbled myself, asked God to forgive me, and all of those dumb situations that I had gotten myself into, all on my own, were forgotten and God has given me a richer, more fuller life, with Him in it. Jesus died on the cross once to give us eternal life, that means you only have to get saved once. “Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself.” - Hebrews 7:25-27.
Jesus said to the covetous (greedy, jealous) Pharisees who were mocking Him, “Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.” - Luke 16:15. What Jesus is saying is that they appear to the world to be living righteously and as if they know God, but God truly knows their hearts and deception and it is an abomination to Him. The Bible says, “He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” - Revelation 21:7,8. All are invited, but those who do not humble themselves before Jesus and mick Him will not be saved. Praise God that while we are here on earth He we still have a chance to learn, accept, and tell the truth. You know, you are called up to testify in court, you have to say a pledge, “I solemnly swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing, but the truth.” If you had to go before the mighty throne and face the judge, Jesus Christ, can you truthfully say with all your heart that you have accepted His invitation? If not, He is calling you right now, accept it and enjoy the feast.
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Bible Study: Death Is Not Final
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Tuesday October 26, 2010 and we are reading through and studying the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Luke, chapters 12-13. In these chapters we will read about, Jesus warning about hypocrisy, greed, and material things, Jesus teaching in the synagogues, Jesus healing a woman on the Sabbath, more parables, and entering the straight gate. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-october-26
Today's Message: Death Is Not Final
No one wants to think about death, it's a bit scary to think that today might be your last day living, death is so final, the end of everything, well, at least that is what the world wants to think. However, the truth is this, death is not final, when the flesh gives out and the spirit of life within a person leaves, there is something left, a soul. The soul has one of two places to go, heaven or hell, it will spend eternity in one of these two places. If a person ends up in heaven, this is known as eternal life and all who have eternal life see Jesus face to face. If a person ends up in hell, this is known as the second death and this is what happens to any person who is not written in the Book of life. “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away...He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” - Revelation 21:4,7,8.
Throughout Jesus' ministry multitudes of people would just flock to see Him, some where true believers by faith, even before they saw Him, some were not quite sure if they believed, but when they saw Him became true believers, and some did not believe at all and were probably there looking for ways to try yo expose Him as some type of illusionist. One day, there was so many people trying to see Jesus that they began stomping over each other. “In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops. And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.” - Luke 12:1-5.
There are two types of fear, first, there is the fear of God, which means giving respect to God, second, there is the fear that we all know and that is to be afraid of. Jesus is saying here there is something more to fear than death, it is Satan, who has the power to cast people into hell. God is not the one who sends people to hell, God sent Jesus to save not destroy, only Satan sends people to hell. “For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them.” - Luke 9:56a. Jesus knows who believe, who just need a little encouragement, and who are Satan's deceivers, no one who is saved has to fear Satan or death because they are one with God. “But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.” - Luke 12:7-9.
I was watching this program last night, someone was killed, one detective said, I hate when rich people die, a second one said, yeah because someone is always willing to kill for money. Can you imagine how many people are actually killed in the world due to money? It is the root of all evil and will be the root of the second death for many. “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.
As Jesus was preaching a man stopped Him and asked Him, to tell someone give them part of his inheritance. “And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth....And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on. The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment....For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. ” - Luke 12:15,22,23,30-32.
The word covet means to desire wrongfully, God has no problem seeing someone receive riches for their hard work, but do it deceitfully and that is when He gets angry. When you have Jesus in your life you do not have to worry about getting the things you need, God will supply. “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:19.
Jesus will save anyone from hell, but He will not do it unless we ask Him to save us, there are many who think that being good will get them to heaven, but that is now what gets us to heaven. There is only One Way and that is Jesus. Jesus explains this further, “And he said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are: Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.” - Luke 13:24-27.
The straight gate is believing in the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, accepting that you are a sinner and trusting in Him to save you and take you to heaven. “He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” - I John 5:12-15. Praise God!
I am self employed and right now barely making any money, but God never fails to give me just the amount of money that I am in need of, it might not be how much I desire, but He is providing for me and as long as I keep pressing forward in faith I will one day get the money I need for some of the other things I desire. God know what we need and when the time is right to give it to us, trust in Him, not the circumstances, He Will Supply.
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? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
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Today is Tuesday October 26, 2010 and we are reading through and studying the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Luke, chapters 12-13. In these chapters we will read about, Jesus warning about hypocrisy, greed, and material things, Jesus teaching in the synagogues, Jesus healing a woman on the Sabbath, more parables, and entering the straight gate. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-october-26
Today's Message: Death Is Not Final
No one wants to think about death, it's a bit scary to think that today might be your last day living, death is so final, the end of everything, well, at least that is what the world wants to think. However, the truth is this, death is not final, when the flesh gives out and the spirit of life within a person leaves, there is something left, a soul. The soul has one of two places to go, heaven or hell, it will spend eternity in one of these two places. If a person ends up in heaven, this is known as eternal life and all who have eternal life see Jesus face to face. If a person ends up in hell, this is known as the second death and this is what happens to any person who is not written in the Book of life. “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away...He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” - Revelation 21:4,7,8.
Throughout Jesus' ministry multitudes of people would just flock to see Him, some where true believers by faith, even before they saw Him, some were not quite sure if they believed, but when they saw Him became true believers, and some did not believe at all and were probably there looking for ways to try yo expose Him as some type of illusionist. One day, there was so many people trying to see Jesus that they began stomping over each other. “In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops. And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.” - Luke 12:1-5.
There are two types of fear, first, there is the fear of God, which means giving respect to God, second, there is the fear that we all know and that is to be afraid of. Jesus is saying here there is something more to fear than death, it is Satan, who has the power to cast people into hell. God is not the one who sends people to hell, God sent Jesus to save not destroy, only Satan sends people to hell. “For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them.” - Luke 9:56a. Jesus knows who believe, who just need a little encouragement, and who are Satan's deceivers, no one who is saved has to fear Satan or death because they are one with God. “But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God: But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.” - Luke 12:7-9.
I was watching this program last night, someone was killed, one detective said, I hate when rich people die, a second one said, yeah because someone is always willing to kill for money. Can you imagine how many people are actually killed in the world due to money? It is the root of all evil and will be the root of the second death for many. “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.
As Jesus was preaching a man stopped Him and asked Him, to tell someone give them part of his inheritance. “And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth....And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on. The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment....For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you. Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. ” - Luke 12:15,22,23,30-32.
The word covet means to desire wrongfully, God has no problem seeing someone receive riches for their hard work, but do it deceitfully and that is when He gets angry. When you have Jesus in your life you do not have to worry about getting the things you need, God will supply. “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:19.
Jesus will save anyone from hell, but He will not do it unless we ask Him to save us, there are many who think that being good will get them to heaven, but that is now what gets us to heaven. There is only One Way and that is Jesus. Jesus explains this further, “And he said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are: Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.” - Luke 13:24-27.
The straight gate is believing in the death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ, accepting that you are a sinner and trusting in Him to save you and take you to heaven. “He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” - I John 5:12-15. Praise God!
I am self employed and right now barely making any money, but God never fails to give me just the amount of money that I am in need of, it might not be how much I desire, but He is providing for me and as long as I keep pressing forward in faith I will one day get the money I need for some of the other things I desire. God know what we need and when the time is right to give it to us, trust in Him, not the circumstances, He Will Supply.
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? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
Want To Receive This Devotion in Your Email?
Subscribe By Sending A Blank Email With the Subject Subscribe to: devotions@imfollowingjesus.com
Monday, October 25, 2010
Bible Study: Preach The Gospel
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Monday October 25, 2010 and we are reading through and studying the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Luke, chapters 10-11. In these chapters we will read about, Jesus appointing seventy people to go out and witness to the people, the parable of the good Samaritan, Jesus visiting Mary and Martha, Jesus teaching the disciples how to pray, and Jesus exposing the Pharisees to their hypocrisy. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-october-25
Today's Message: Preach The Gospel
We, whom have accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior have received the wonderful gift of eternal life. Regardless of how bad we have been or how bad we may be in the future, that gift will never get taken away from us. Although those whom are faithful servants of Christ walk daily with Him, it is not our works that give us eternal life, but our faith in and acceptance of Jesus Christ, the one and only begotten Son of God. “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” - Titus 3:5-7.
After Jesus sent His disciples out to preach the Gospel He called seventy more and gave them details on how they were to preach the Gospel as well. “After these things the LORD appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come. Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest. Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves. Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way. And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house. And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again. And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.”- Luke 10:1-7.
Jesus said, the harvest is great, meaning there are many souls that need to be witnessed too, but there are so few people willing to go out and tell it. So, He chooses them Himself and you are one of them that He chose. There is no better feeling than to see someone bow their head and trust Jesus Christ as their Savior, it's truly joyous. I just recently witnessed to two young boys and they got baptized last week, it was a joy to see someone that I lead to the Lord follow His command to follow in baptism. When the seventy returned jumping with joy, Jesus gave them a warning, “And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name. And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.”- Luke 10:17-20.
Jesus warns all of us, we are going to face some attacks from the devil because we are preaching the Gospel to others. We are spiritual physicians, making every effort to heal the sick with the Word of God, but not at the price of compromising biblical truth. We should not be surprised when we face opposition for living a godly life, instead we should rejoice in the high honor of suffering for His Name's sake and for having received eternal life. Satan was once one of God's angels, but he tried to make himself above God so, God cast him out of heaven. “How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.” - Isaiah 14:12-15.
The heart of every unconverted sinner is the devil's palace, where he dwells, and where he rules. There is a kind of peace in the heart of an unconverted soul, while the devil, as a strong man armed, keeps it. Jesus said, “When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace: But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils. He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.”- Luke 11:21-23.
The sinner is secure, has no doubt concerning the goodness of his state, nor any dread of the judgment to come. But observe the wonderful change made in conversion. The conversion of a soul to God, is Christ's victory over the devil and his power in that soul, restoring the soul to its liberty, and recovering his own interest in it and power over it. “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” - Galatians 5:1. Praise God!
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? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
Want To Receive This Devotion in Your Email?
Subscribe By Sending A Blank Email With the Subject Subscribe to: devotions@imfollowingjesus.com
Today is Monday October 25, 2010 and we are reading through and studying the Bible from Genesis to Revelation. Today's message comes from the reading of the Book of Luke, chapters 10-11. In these chapters we will read about, Jesus appointing seventy people to go out and witness to the people, the parable of the good Samaritan, Jesus visiting Mary and Martha, Jesus teaching the disciples how to pray, and Jesus exposing the Pharisees to their hypocrisy. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: www.imfollowingjesus.com/bible-october-25
Today's Message: Preach The Gospel
We, whom have accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as our Savior have received the wonderful gift of eternal life. Regardless of how bad we have been or how bad we may be in the future, that gift will never get taken away from us. Although those whom are faithful servants of Christ walk daily with Him, it is not our works that give us eternal life, but our faith in and acceptance of Jesus Christ, the one and only begotten Son of God. “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” - Titus 3:5-7.
After Jesus sent His disciples out to preach the Gospel He called seventy more and gave them details on how they were to preach the Gospel as well. “After these things the LORD appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come. Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest. Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves. Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way. And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house. And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again. And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.”- Luke 10:1-7.
Jesus said, the harvest is great, meaning there are many souls that need to be witnessed too, but there are so few people willing to go out and tell it. So, He chooses them Himself and you are one of them that He chose. There is no better feeling than to see someone bow their head and trust Jesus Christ as their Savior, it's truly joyous. I just recently witnessed to two young boys and they got baptized last week, it was a joy to see someone that I lead to the Lord follow His command to follow in baptism. When the seventy returned jumping with joy, Jesus gave them a warning, “And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name. And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.”- Luke 10:17-20.
Jesus warns all of us, we are going to face some attacks from the devil because we are preaching the Gospel to others. We are spiritual physicians, making every effort to heal the sick with the Word of God, but not at the price of compromising biblical truth. We should not be surprised when we face opposition for living a godly life, instead we should rejoice in the high honor of suffering for His Name's sake and for having received eternal life. Satan was once one of God's angels, but he tried to make himself above God so, God cast him out of heaven. “How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High. Yet thou shalt be brought down to hell, to the sides of the pit.” - Isaiah 14:12-15.
The heart of every unconverted sinner is the devil's palace, where he dwells, and where he rules. There is a kind of peace in the heart of an unconverted soul, while the devil, as a strong man armed, keeps it. Jesus said, “When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace: But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils. He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.”- Luke 11:21-23.
The sinner is secure, has no doubt concerning the goodness of his state, nor any dread of the judgment to come. But observe the wonderful change made in conversion. The conversion of a soul to God, is Christ's victory over the devil and his power in that soul, restoring the soul to its liberty, and recovering his own interest in it and power over it. “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” - Galatians 5:1. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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