King James Bible Study: The Unknown God
For: Saturday May 07, 2011
Chapters: II Kings 16-17
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-7
Details of Today's Reading: The evil reign of Ahaz over Judah, the Assyrians take control in Damascus, the evil reign of Hoshea in Israel, Israel becomes tributary to Assyrians, the sins of Israel, and God removes Israel from His sight.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
“Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you... Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man's device. And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent: Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.” - Acts 17:22,23,29-31.
Ever wonder why there are so many religions out there? They are ignorantly worshiping the unknown god. Every person on earth lives by some kind of hope and faith, they will go wherever that hope and faith takes them. Sadly, there are plenty of wicked people out there ready to reel them in with lots of promises. The truth is, there is only One God, One Way, and One Life, and that is through the Lord Jesus Christ, but the majority of people will follow the unknown god simply because they have no idea who the Almighty Living God is.
God gave the Israelites one command to follow, “Thou shalt have no other gods before me.” - Exodus 20:3. However, for the majority of Israel God was unknown to them, leaving them to follow whatever god they felt comfortable with. Judah had been the only kingdom still worshiping God publicly, now, there is a new king and all of that was about to change.
“Twenty years old was Ahaz when he began to reign, and reigned sixteen years in Jerusalem, and did not that which was right in the sight of the LORD his God, like David his father. But he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, yea, and made his son to pass through the fire, according to the abominations of the heathen, whom the LORD cast out from before the children of Israel. And he sacrificed and burnt incense in the high places, and on the hills, and under every green tree.“ - II Kings 16:2-4.
People are often referred to as sheep, sheep are unaware of what is up ahead of them, they wander easily and walk into all kinds of danger, that is why they need a shepherd leading them. Now, imagine that shepherd being a wolf, leading the sheep right into a fiery pit? False religious leaders lead millions, and I mean millions, of people in hell because they have rejected God and made up their own. Ignorance does not keep a person from ending up in hell, every person that does not know God, receives the same fate as the false leader and Satan himself.
“And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever... And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” - Revelation 20:10,14,15.
Now, with both nations making false gods the god of their choice God has had enough, He begins with the Northern Kingdom. The Samaritans came in, took control of Israel and took most of the Israelites captive and brought them to Assyria.
“Then the king of Assyria came up throughout all the land, and went up to Samaria, and besieged it three years. In the ninth year of Hoshea the king of Assyria took Samaria, and carried Israel away into Assyria, and placed them in Halah and in Habor by the river of Gozan, and in the cities of the Medes. For so it was, that the children of Israel had sinned against the LORD their God, which had brought them up out of the land of Egypt, from under the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt, and had feared other gods, And walked in the statutes of the heathen, whom the LORD cast out from before the children of Israel, and of the kings of Israel, which they had made...Therefore the LORD was very angry with Israel, and removed them out of his sight: there was none left but the tribe of Judah only.” - II Kings 17:5-8,18.
As I said yesterday, God will not watch His people living in sin, if it continues with no thought of repentance He will cast them away from His presence. Just as Paul told the Greeks that it is not God's will to cast away all men, but to see them come to repentance, we are to heed the same message. “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” - II Peter 3:9.
Now, with Israel in Assyria, one might think that God was not with them, but God was sure to show not only the Israelites, but the Samaritans as well that this was all His plan. The Samaritans quickly learned that Israel's God was among them.
“And so it was at the beginning of their dwelling there, that they feared not the LORD: therefore the LORD sent lions among them, which slew some of them. Wherefore they spake to the king of Assyria, saying, The nations which thou hast removed, and placed in the cities of Samaria, know not the manner of the God of the land: therefore he hath sent lions among them, and, behold, they slay them, because they know not the manner of the God of the land. Then the king of Assyria commanded, saying, Carry thither one of the priests whom ye brought from thence; and let them go and dwell there, and let him teach them the manner of the God of the land.” - II Kings 17:25-27.
Recognizing in these attacks a judgment from the God of the land, whom they had not worshiped, they petitioned the Assyrian court to send them some Jewish priests who might instruct them in the right way of serving Him. The amazing thing about God is that while He turns His back on sin He does not completely cast them out and on top of that He gets others to come to know Him in the process. “Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” - James 5:19,20.
Every living person has a chance to know the truth and follow the One and Only True God, it's up to them, but it's a choice that is vital. There is only one way to know God and that is through Jesus Christ, His Son. No matter how many false religions or gods are made up through the wolves.
“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves...Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. “ - Matthew 8:15,21-23
There is only One God, One Way, One Life and that is by believing in and accepting the Lord Jesus Christ as your Savior. “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. “ - John 14:6.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the original brass altar made by Solomon (6:14). The Brasen Altar is a type of the cross on which Christ, our whole Burnt Offering, offered Himself to God as a sin sacrifice for all mankind. “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 7:26,27.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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Saturday, May 7, 2011
Friday, May 6, 2011
King James Bible Study: Halfhearted Turned Hardhearted
King James Bible Study: Halfhearted Turned Hardhearted
For: Friday May 06, 2011
Chapters: II Kings 14-15
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-6
Details of Today's Reading: The reign of Amaziah over Judah, the civil war between Israel and Judah, the reigns of Jeroboam in Jerusalem, Azariah, and Jotham over Judah and Zechariah, Shallum, Menahem, Pekahiah, Pekah over Israel.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
“And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all? And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.” - Mark 12:28-31.
Of all that laws and commandments God had given to His people over the centuries none of them mattered to God unless these first two commandments were followed. Of course, God's mercy endures forever, but imagine how much better would lives be if thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength:and love thy neighbour as thyself.
Quite often when you read about the kings of Judah you hear that they did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, which was what they were taught by their fathers. However, it is almost always followed by, yet not like David his father, which meant that they were probably doing some things halfheartedly. The problem with halfheartedness is that it can become hardheartedness.
“He was twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and reigned twenty and nine years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Jehoaddan of Jerusalem. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, yet not like David his father: he did according to all things as Joash his father did. Howbeit the high places were not taken away: as yet the people did sacrifice and burnt incense on the high places. And it came to pass, as soon as the kingdom was confirmed in his hand, that he slew his servants which had slain the king his father. But the children of the murderers he slew not: according unto that which is written in the book of the law of Moses, wherein the LORD commanded, saying, The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, nor the children be put to death for the fathers; but every man shall be put to death for his own sin.” - II Kings 14:2-6.
Amaziah did really well in the beginning, but the latter end of his reign was full of corruption, so much so that a civil war developed between Judah and Israel, in which Judah was severely defeated. We learn of king after king that would not take away the high places, which meant that idol worship was still common and that the king was not fully loving the Lord with all his heart. Today, there are some people who still keep their high places up (people, jobs, hobbies, etc. that are worshiped above God), unless all the high places are removed they will not love God with all their heart, leaving much room for corruption and destruction. Chastisement is inevitable for all who do not take away the high places. “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?” - Hebrews 12:6,7.
God truly does everything He can to get us to give ourselves wholeheartedly to Him, all the trials, all the afflictions, all the joys, and even the tears are placed before us so that we are the best we can be only through the power of God. There is not a day that goes by where I do not thank God for taking me out of the world and the mess I had gotten myself into. Although the Northern Kingdom revolted God, they were still His people and He still loved them just as much as He loved His faithful children. He tried time and time again to get the current king of Israel do right, once in a while He was able to get a king to follow His command, such as the case with Jeroboam.
“He restored the coast of Israel from the entering of Hamath unto the sea of the plain, according to the word of the LORD God of Israel, which he spake by the hand of his servant Jonah, the son of Amittai, the prophet, which was of Gathhepher. For the LORD saw the affliction of Israel, that it was very bitter: for there was not any shut up, nor any left, nor any helper for Israel. And the LORD said not that he would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven: but he saved them by the hand of Jeroboam the son of Joash.” - II Kings 14:25-27.
God does not want to see any person perish, otherwise He would not have sent Jesus to save all mankind. Jesus died on the cross for all of us, but He will not save anyone who does not want to be saved. Old and New Testament people alike never get anything from God without asking Him for it. However, no matter who you are or what you have done in the past, God is willing to reach out His hand and save all who believe in and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.” - Romans 5:8,9.
Now we learn of Azariah, also known as Uzziah, he was a king who also did right in the sight of God, he had done more to restore lost territory and strengthen the prestige of Judah than any king since the kingdom divided.
“Sixteen years old was he when he began to reign, and he reigned two and fifty years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Jecholiah of Jerusalem. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his father Amaziah had done; Save that the high places were not removed: the people sacrificed and burnt incense still on the high places. And the LORD smote the king, so that he was a leper unto the day of his death, and dwelt in a several house. And Jotham the king's son was over the house, judging the people of the land.” - II Kings 15:2-5.
Just as the others, Azariah's heart was not completely given over to God and toward the end of his reign he became leprous over his sins, which we learn in more detail in II Chronicles. Incidentally, God did not give these laws to those who are righteous they were given to enforce the law upon the lawbreakers.
“For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;) In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.” - Romans 2:12-16.
No matter how much we repent, no matter how many commands we follow, unless we give God all our heart we will go through a lot of unnecessary suffering. Yes, we need trails and affliction from time to time to keep us reminded that God is still around, but there would be far less as we yield to God and love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Just following two commands paves the way for the rest and not only gives us honor to God, but honor from God as well. “ That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:” - I Peter 1:7.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through God's judgment when He struck King Azariah with leprosy. Christ is judge of all and we will all face Him for judgment. “For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: “ - John 5:22.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
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For: Friday May 06, 2011
Chapters: II Kings 14-15
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-6
Details of Today's Reading: The reign of Amaziah over Judah, the civil war between Israel and Judah, the reigns of Jeroboam in Jerusalem, Azariah, and Jotham over Judah and Zechariah, Shallum, Menahem, Pekahiah, Pekah over Israel.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
“And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all? And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.” - Mark 12:28-31.
Of all that laws and commandments God had given to His people over the centuries none of them mattered to God unless these first two commandments were followed. Of course, God's mercy endures forever, but imagine how much better would lives be if thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength:and love thy neighbour as thyself.
Quite often when you read about the kings of Judah you hear that they did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, which was what they were taught by their fathers. However, it is almost always followed by, yet not like David his father, which meant that they were probably doing some things halfheartedly. The problem with halfheartedness is that it can become hardheartedness.
“He was twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and reigned twenty and nine years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Jehoaddan of Jerusalem. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, yet not like David his father: he did according to all things as Joash his father did. Howbeit the high places were not taken away: as yet the people did sacrifice and burnt incense on the high places. And it came to pass, as soon as the kingdom was confirmed in his hand, that he slew his servants which had slain the king his father. But the children of the murderers he slew not: according unto that which is written in the book of the law of Moses, wherein the LORD commanded, saying, The fathers shall not be put to death for the children, nor the children be put to death for the fathers; but every man shall be put to death for his own sin.” - II Kings 14:2-6.
Amaziah did really well in the beginning, but the latter end of his reign was full of corruption, so much so that a civil war developed between Judah and Israel, in which Judah was severely defeated. We learn of king after king that would not take away the high places, which meant that idol worship was still common and that the king was not fully loving the Lord with all his heart. Today, there are some people who still keep their high places up (people, jobs, hobbies, etc. that are worshiped above God), unless all the high places are removed they will not love God with all their heart, leaving much room for corruption and destruction. Chastisement is inevitable for all who do not take away the high places. “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?” - Hebrews 12:6,7.
God truly does everything He can to get us to give ourselves wholeheartedly to Him, all the trials, all the afflictions, all the joys, and even the tears are placed before us so that we are the best we can be only through the power of God. There is not a day that goes by where I do not thank God for taking me out of the world and the mess I had gotten myself into. Although the Northern Kingdom revolted God, they were still His people and He still loved them just as much as He loved His faithful children. He tried time and time again to get the current king of Israel do right, once in a while He was able to get a king to follow His command, such as the case with Jeroboam.
“He restored the coast of Israel from the entering of Hamath unto the sea of the plain, according to the word of the LORD God of Israel, which he spake by the hand of his servant Jonah, the son of Amittai, the prophet, which was of Gathhepher. For the LORD saw the affliction of Israel, that it was very bitter: for there was not any shut up, nor any left, nor any helper for Israel. And the LORD said not that he would blot out the name of Israel from under heaven: but he saved them by the hand of Jeroboam the son of Joash.” - II Kings 14:25-27.
God does not want to see any person perish, otherwise He would not have sent Jesus to save all mankind. Jesus died on the cross for all of us, but He will not save anyone who does not want to be saved. Old and New Testament people alike never get anything from God without asking Him for it. However, no matter who you are or what you have done in the past, God is willing to reach out His hand and save all who believe in and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.” - Romans 5:8,9.
Now we learn of Azariah, also known as Uzziah, he was a king who also did right in the sight of God, he had done more to restore lost territory and strengthen the prestige of Judah than any king since the kingdom divided.
“Sixteen years old was he when he began to reign, and he reigned two and fifty years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Jecholiah of Jerusalem. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his father Amaziah had done; Save that the high places were not removed: the people sacrificed and burnt incense still on the high places. And the LORD smote the king, so that he was a leper unto the day of his death, and dwelt in a several house. And Jotham the king's son was over the house, judging the people of the land.” - II Kings 15:2-5.
Just as the others, Azariah's heart was not completely given over to God and toward the end of his reign he became leprous over his sins, which we learn in more detail in II Chronicles. Incidentally, God did not give these laws to those who are righteous they were given to enforce the law upon the lawbreakers.
“For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law; (For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified. For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves: Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;) In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.” - Romans 2:12-16.
No matter how much we repent, no matter how many commands we follow, unless we give God all our heart we will go through a lot of unnecessary suffering. Yes, we need trails and affliction from time to time to keep us reminded that God is still around, but there would be far less as we yield to God and love Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. Just following two commands paves the way for the rest and not only gives us honor to God, but honor from God as well. “ That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:” - I Peter 1:7.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through God's judgment when He struck King Azariah with leprosy. Christ is judge of all and we will all face Him for judgment. “For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: “ - John 5:22.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
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Thursday, May 5, 2011
King James Bible Study: In God's Hand
King James Bible Study: In God's Hand
For: Thursday May 05, 2011
Chapters: II Kings 11-13
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-5
Details of Today's Reading: Athaliah has the royal seed of Judah destroyed, all but Joash are killed, Joash becomes king of Judah at the age of seven, the execution of Athaliah, a revival through Jehoida, the repair of the Temple, Reign of Jehoahaz over Israel, Elisha’s death, the miracle at his tomb, and the victories of Jehoash through God's help.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
“Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly. Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of me. But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. I and my Father are one.” - John 10:24-30.
God preserves His people, His people are those who not only believe in His Son, Jesus Christ, but ask Him to come into their lives. Now, there are a lot of people who say they know who Jesus is, but anyone can say that and not know Jesus. While we may not be able to tell by looking at a person who are His, Jesus sure can. His sheep are those whom believe not only in His death, burial, and resurrection, but also that He is the Son of God and God Himself in the flesh.
After Jehu destroyed all the house of Ahab and the Baal worshipers in the Northern Kingdom it seemed as though thing were looking up for Israel. However, they forgot one thing, to kill Athaliah, who was the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel. When she found out that her son was dead she called for vengeance upon the house of Judah.
“And when Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and destroyed all the seed royal. But Jehosheba, the daughter of king Joram, sister of Ahaziah, took Joash the son of Ahaziah, and stole him from among the king's sons which were slain; and they hid him, even him and his nurse, in the bedchamber from Athaliah, so that he was not slain. And he was with her hid in the house of the LORD six years. And Athaliah did reign over the land.” - II Kings 11:1-3.
It was important for a male of the house of Judah to keep the seed of David alive as God promised David that His seed would come through the lineage in which were David's. For six years Athaliah thought she had everything under control, what she was oblivious to was her grandson being prepared to be king.
“And he brought forth the king's son, and put the crown upon him, and gave him the testimony; and they made him king, and anointed him; and they clapped their hands, and said, God save the king. And when Athaliah heard the noise of the guard and of the people, she came to the people into the temple of the LORD. And when she looked, behold, the king stood by a pillar, as the manner was, and the princes and the trumpeters by the king, and all the people of the land rejoiced, and blew with trumpets: and Athaliah rent her clothes, and cried, Treason, Treason. But Jehoiada the priest commanded the captains of the hundreds, the officers of the host, and said unto them, Have her forth without the ranges: and him that followeth her kill with the sword. For the priest had said, Let her not be slain in the house of the LORD...And all the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was in quiet: and they slew Athaliah with the sword beside the king's house. Seven years old was Jehoash when he began to reign.” - II Kings 11:12-15,20,21.
Although he was just a child he had a good guardian, a godly man, willing to train him to be a godly man himself and what was better, he had a good God to go to when he needed help. We should never disregard a child, kids are wiser than you think and if brought up godly, it is amazing what they can do. I teach seven year olds and they surprise me with what they have paid attention to and learned just in a short amount of time. I have actually had several parents that live in the world stop allowing their kids to come to church because their kids were telling them that what they were doing was sin. While kids need to respect and honor their parents they can still be a good influence on them, Jesus loved children and often used them as an example that we should as adults follow.
“And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me...Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.”- Matthew 18:2-5,10.
Remembering that he owed his preservation and restoration to God and the Temple, Joash ordered all the priests to collect the money of the consecrated gifts, that was generally brought into the house of the Lord, and use it for all the repairs that were needed in the Temple.
“And Jehoash said to the priests, All the money of the dedicated things that is brought into the house of the LORD, even the money of every one that passeth the account, the money that every man is set at, and all the money that cometh into any man's heart to bring into the house of the LORD, Let the priests take it to them, every man of his acquaintance: and let them repair the breaches of the house, wheresoever any breach shall be found. But it was so, that in the three and twentieth year of king Jehoash the priests had not repaired the breaches of the house. Then king Jehoash called for Jehoiada the priest, and the other priests, and said unto them, Why repair ye not the breaches of the house? now therefore receive no more money of your acquaintance, but deliver it for the breaches of the house.” - II Kings 12:4-7.
The word breach is defined as the act of breaking, or a state of being broken, a gap, a space between the severed parts of a solid body parted by violence. When we are born we are born breach, we are born with a broken body, one that has been parted by violence (sin). A body contains three parts, flesh, soul, and spirit, when we are born, even though the body has life the spirit is dead, it does not have God's Spirit in it (This is a result of sin passed down to us through Adam and Eve), meaning the body is broken or breach. Now, when a person accepts Jesus Christ as their Savior Jesus repairs that breach, He seals the gap allowing the body and soul to become one with the Spirit of God, making the body whole, now containing all three parts, flesh, soul, and Spirit. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” - John 3:36.
Once Christ is in us we instantly become one of God's people and no matter what we do we still are God's. No matter how many times Israel turned their backs on God He was still there to answer their cries when they truly repented. “And Jehoahaz besought the LORD, and the LORD hearkened unto him: for he saw the oppression of Israel, because the king of Syria oppressed them...And the LORD was gracious unto them, and had compassion on them, and had respect unto them, because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not destroy them, neither cast he them from his presence as yet.” - II Kings 13:4,23.
Even though we are God's people He will not watch His people live in sin, He will cast Himself from their presence, but His ears never stop listening for their cry. He never forgets the promise He made with you, “Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father. And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.” - I John 2:24,25. Praise God!
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through Jehoiada, the priest who protected Joash. “Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.” - II Corinthians 4:9,10.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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For: Thursday May 05, 2011
Chapters: II Kings 11-13
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-5
Details of Today's Reading: Athaliah has the royal seed of Judah destroyed, all but Joash are killed, Joash becomes king of Judah at the age of seven, the execution of Athaliah, a revival through Jehoida, the repair of the Temple, Reign of Jehoahaz over Israel, Elisha’s death, the miracle at his tomb, and the victories of Jehoash through God's help.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
“Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long dost thou make us to doubt? If thou be the Christ, tell us plainly. Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name, they bear witness of me. But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand. I and my Father are one.” - John 10:24-30.
God preserves His people, His people are those who not only believe in His Son, Jesus Christ, but ask Him to come into their lives. Now, there are a lot of people who say they know who Jesus is, but anyone can say that and not know Jesus. While we may not be able to tell by looking at a person who are His, Jesus sure can. His sheep are those whom believe not only in His death, burial, and resurrection, but also that He is the Son of God and God Himself in the flesh.
After Jehu destroyed all the house of Ahab and the Baal worshipers in the Northern Kingdom it seemed as though thing were looking up for Israel. However, they forgot one thing, to kill Athaliah, who was the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel. When she found out that her son was dead she called for vengeance upon the house of Judah.
“And when Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and destroyed all the seed royal. But Jehosheba, the daughter of king Joram, sister of Ahaziah, took Joash the son of Ahaziah, and stole him from among the king's sons which were slain; and they hid him, even him and his nurse, in the bedchamber from Athaliah, so that he was not slain. And he was with her hid in the house of the LORD six years. And Athaliah did reign over the land.” - II Kings 11:1-3.
It was important for a male of the house of Judah to keep the seed of David alive as God promised David that His seed would come through the lineage in which were David's. For six years Athaliah thought she had everything under control, what she was oblivious to was her grandson being prepared to be king.
“And he brought forth the king's son, and put the crown upon him, and gave him the testimony; and they made him king, and anointed him; and they clapped their hands, and said, God save the king. And when Athaliah heard the noise of the guard and of the people, she came to the people into the temple of the LORD. And when she looked, behold, the king stood by a pillar, as the manner was, and the princes and the trumpeters by the king, and all the people of the land rejoiced, and blew with trumpets: and Athaliah rent her clothes, and cried, Treason, Treason. But Jehoiada the priest commanded the captains of the hundreds, the officers of the host, and said unto them, Have her forth without the ranges: and him that followeth her kill with the sword. For the priest had said, Let her not be slain in the house of the LORD...And all the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was in quiet: and they slew Athaliah with the sword beside the king's house. Seven years old was Jehoash when he began to reign.” - II Kings 11:12-15,20,21.
Although he was just a child he had a good guardian, a godly man, willing to train him to be a godly man himself and what was better, he had a good God to go to when he needed help. We should never disregard a child, kids are wiser than you think and if brought up godly, it is amazing what they can do. I teach seven year olds and they surprise me with what they have paid attention to and learned just in a short amount of time. I have actually had several parents that live in the world stop allowing their kids to come to church because their kids were telling them that what they were doing was sin. While kids need to respect and honor their parents they can still be a good influence on them, Jesus loved children and often used them as an example that we should as adults follow.
“And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me...Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.”- Matthew 18:2-5,10.
Remembering that he owed his preservation and restoration to God and the Temple, Joash ordered all the priests to collect the money of the consecrated gifts, that was generally brought into the house of the Lord, and use it for all the repairs that were needed in the Temple.
“And Jehoash said to the priests, All the money of the dedicated things that is brought into the house of the LORD, even the money of every one that passeth the account, the money that every man is set at, and all the money that cometh into any man's heart to bring into the house of the LORD, Let the priests take it to them, every man of his acquaintance: and let them repair the breaches of the house, wheresoever any breach shall be found. But it was so, that in the three and twentieth year of king Jehoash the priests had not repaired the breaches of the house. Then king Jehoash called for Jehoiada the priest, and the other priests, and said unto them, Why repair ye not the breaches of the house? now therefore receive no more money of your acquaintance, but deliver it for the breaches of the house.” - II Kings 12:4-7.
The word breach is defined as the act of breaking, or a state of being broken, a gap, a space between the severed parts of a solid body parted by violence. When we are born we are born breach, we are born with a broken body, one that has been parted by violence (sin). A body contains three parts, flesh, soul, and spirit, when we are born, even though the body has life the spirit is dead, it does not have God's Spirit in it (This is a result of sin passed down to us through Adam and Eve), meaning the body is broken or breach. Now, when a person accepts Jesus Christ as their Savior Jesus repairs that breach, He seals the gap allowing the body and soul to become one with the Spirit of God, making the body whole, now containing all three parts, flesh, soul, and Spirit. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” - John 3:36.
Once Christ is in us we instantly become one of God's people and no matter what we do we still are God's. No matter how many times Israel turned their backs on God He was still there to answer their cries when they truly repented. “And Jehoahaz besought the LORD, and the LORD hearkened unto him: for he saw the oppression of Israel, because the king of Syria oppressed them...And the LORD was gracious unto them, and had compassion on them, and had respect unto them, because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not destroy them, neither cast he them from his presence as yet.” - II Kings 13:4,23.
Even though we are God's people He will not watch His people live in sin, He will cast Himself from their presence, but His ears never stop listening for their cry. He never forgets the promise He made with you, “Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father. And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even eternal life.” - I John 2:24,25. Praise God!
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through Jehoiada, the priest who protected Joash. “Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.” - II Corinthians 4:9,10.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
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Wednesday, May 4, 2011
King James Bible Study: Vengeance Is Mine
King James Bible Study: Vengeance Is Mine
For: Wednesday May 04, 2011
Chapters: II Kings 9-10
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-4
Details of Today's Reading: Jehu is anointed king of Israel, the deaths of Jehoram, Ahaziah, and Jezebel, God places judgment upon the house of Ahab, all are slain including princes of Judah, and Jehu puts and end to Baal worship in Israel, killing all the worshipers and prophets, and tearing down the house of Baal.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
“ Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. 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 12:17-21.
No matter who you are we all have had someone hurt us or treat us wrong, some have had some really cruel and wicked things done to them. While it is natural to want vengeance, we should never let the things that happen to us bring us down to their level. God takes care of His people and He will pay back what was done to us, while it may seem like nothing is getting done to see justice, just like everything else, it's all in His timing. What greater law enforcement do we need than God?
Since the reign of Ahab, God worship had been replaced by Baal worship, in fact, his wicked wife Jezebel, despised God so much that she had any prophet or priest executed if word got out that he was worshiping God. Ahab died around 898 BC, but Jezebel was still around and so was Baal worship, now, twenty years after Elijah prophesied about his vengeance upon the house of Ahab, all was coming to pass.
“And Elisha the prophet called one of the children of the prophets, and said unto him, Gird up thy loins, and take this box of oil in thine hand, and go to Ramothgilead: And when thou comest thither, look out there Jehu the son of Jehoshaphat the son of Nimshi, and go in, and make him arise up from among his brethren, and carry him to an inner chamber; Then take the box of oil, and pour it on his head, and say, Thus saith the LORD, I have anointed thee king over Israel. Then open the door, and flee, and tarry not...And he arose, and went into the house; and he poured the oil on his head, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I have anointed thee king over the people of the LORD, even over Israel. And thou shalt smite the house of Ahab thy master, that I may avenge the blood of my servants the prophets, and the blood of all the servants of the LORD, at the hand of Jezebel. For the whole house of Ahab shall perish: and I will cut off from Ahab him that pisseth against the wall, and him that is shut up and left in Israel:” - II Kings 9:1-3,6-9.
Jehu was anointed king over Israel by God's special choice, he was commanded to destroy the house of Ahab, including Jezebel. As long as he acted in obedience to God, and upon the right principles, Jehu was assured that he would not face any opposition. The murder of God's prophets is strongly noticed, showing that God never lets one hair on our heads touched go unnoticed.
“And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” - Matthew 10:28-31.
Elijah's prophecy of Jezebel's death would soon come to pass, Jezebel daring the judgment, heard that Jehu had slain her son, and slain him for her whoredoms and witchcrafts, and that he was now coming after her.
“And when Jehu was come to Jezreel, Jezebel heard of it; and she painted her face, and tired her head, and looked out at a window. And as Jehu entered in at the gate, she said, Had Zimri peace, who slew his master? And he lifted up his face to the window, and said, Who is on my side? who? And there looked out to him two or three eunuchs. And he said, Throw her down. So they threw her down: and some of her blood was sprinkled on the wall, and on the horses: and he trode her under foot...And they went to bury her: but they found no more of her than the skull, and the feet, and the palms of her hands. Wherefore they came again, and told him. And he said, This is the word of the LORD, which he spake by his servant Elijah the Tishbite, saying, In the portion of Jezreel shall dogs eat the flesh of Jezebel:” - II Kings 9:30-33,36.
Just as God promised Ahab's family, friends, and anyone else associated with his family was executed as well as all the Baal worshipers, making sure that not a prophet, priest, or servant of God would be harmed.
“So Jehu slew all that remained of the house of Ahab in Jezreel, and all his great men, and his kinsfolks, and his priests, until he left him none remaining... And Jehu gathered all the people together, and said unto them, Ahab served Baal a little; but Jehu shall serve him much. Now therefore call unto me all the prophets of Baal, all his servants, and all his priests; let none be wanting: for I have a great sacrifice to do to Baal; whosoever shall be wanting, he shall not live. But Jehu did it in subtilty, to the intent that he might destroy the worshippers of Baal...And it came to pass, as soon as he had made an end of offering the burnt offering, that Jehu said to the guard and to the captains, Go in, and slay them; let none come forth. And they smote them with the edge of the sword; and the guard and the captains cast them out, and went to the city of the house of Baal.” - II Kings 10:11,18,19,25.
God is not the author of any man’s sin, but even by that which men do from bad principles, He serves His own purposes and takes vengeance on those who have defied Him. His judgment is upon all people, just as the Bible says, you reap what you sow, the wicked never go unpunished.
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” - Galatians 6:7,8.
While God's judgment stands firm, He is willing to repent of that judgment and save the soul of those who truly want to redeem themselves. Even if a person has walked away from God He is faithful and just to redeem them. “ If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” - I John 1:9.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through Elisha, who sent one of the sons of the prophets with oil to anoint Jehu to be king. Oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit, and the Lord sent the Holy Spirit to anoint all believers of Christ. “But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.” - I John 2:27.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
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For: Wednesday May 04, 2011
Chapters: II Kings 9-10
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-4
Details of Today's Reading: Jehu is anointed king of Israel, the deaths of Jehoram, Ahaziah, and Jezebel, God places judgment upon the house of Ahab, all are slain including princes of Judah, and Jehu puts and end to Baal worship in Israel, killing all the worshipers and prophets, and tearing down the house of Baal.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
“ Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. 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 12:17-21.
No matter who you are we all have had someone hurt us or treat us wrong, some have had some really cruel and wicked things done to them. While it is natural to want vengeance, we should never let the things that happen to us bring us down to their level. God takes care of His people and He will pay back what was done to us, while it may seem like nothing is getting done to see justice, just like everything else, it's all in His timing. What greater law enforcement do we need than God?
Since the reign of Ahab, God worship had been replaced by Baal worship, in fact, his wicked wife Jezebel, despised God so much that she had any prophet or priest executed if word got out that he was worshiping God. Ahab died around 898 BC, but Jezebel was still around and so was Baal worship, now, twenty years after Elijah prophesied about his vengeance upon the house of Ahab, all was coming to pass.
“And Elisha the prophet called one of the children of the prophets, and said unto him, Gird up thy loins, and take this box of oil in thine hand, and go to Ramothgilead: And when thou comest thither, look out there Jehu the son of Jehoshaphat the son of Nimshi, and go in, and make him arise up from among his brethren, and carry him to an inner chamber; Then take the box of oil, and pour it on his head, and say, Thus saith the LORD, I have anointed thee king over Israel. Then open the door, and flee, and tarry not...And he arose, and went into the house; and he poured the oil on his head, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I have anointed thee king over the people of the LORD, even over Israel. And thou shalt smite the house of Ahab thy master, that I may avenge the blood of my servants the prophets, and the blood of all the servants of the LORD, at the hand of Jezebel. For the whole house of Ahab shall perish: and I will cut off from Ahab him that pisseth against the wall, and him that is shut up and left in Israel:” - II Kings 9:1-3,6-9.
Jehu was anointed king over Israel by God's special choice, he was commanded to destroy the house of Ahab, including Jezebel. As long as he acted in obedience to God, and upon the right principles, Jehu was assured that he would not face any opposition. The murder of God's prophets is strongly noticed, showing that God never lets one hair on our heads touched go unnoticed.
“And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” - Matthew 10:28-31.
Elijah's prophecy of Jezebel's death would soon come to pass, Jezebel daring the judgment, heard that Jehu had slain her son, and slain him for her whoredoms and witchcrafts, and that he was now coming after her.
“And when Jehu was come to Jezreel, Jezebel heard of it; and she painted her face, and tired her head, and looked out at a window. And as Jehu entered in at the gate, she said, Had Zimri peace, who slew his master? And he lifted up his face to the window, and said, Who is on my side? who? And there looked out to him two or three eunuchs. And he said, Throw her down. So they threw her down: and some of her blood was sprinkled on the wall, and on the horses: and he trode her under foot...And they went to bury her: but they found no more of her than the skull, and the feet, and the palms of her hands. Wherefore they came again, and told him. And he said, This is the word of the LORD, which he spake by his servant Elijah the Tishbite, saying, In the portion of Jezreel shall dogs eat the flesh of Jezebel:” - II Kings 9:30-33,36.
Just as God promised Ahab's family, friends, and anyone else associated with his family was executed as well as all the Baal worshipers, making sure that not a prophet, priest, or servant of God would be harmed.
“So Jehu slew all that remained of the house of Ahab in Jezreel, and all his great men, and his kinsfolks, and his priests, until he left him none remaining... And Jehu gathered all the people together, and said unto them, Ahab served Baal a little; but Jehu shall serve him much. Now therefore call unto me all the prophets of Baal, all his servants, and all his priests; let none be wanting: for I have a great sacrifice to do to Baal; whosoever shall be wanting, he shall not live. But Jehu did it in subtilty, to the intent that he might destroy the worshippers of Baal...And it came to pass, as soon as he had made an end of offering the burnt offering, that Jehu said to the guard and to the captains, Go in, and slay them; let none come forth. And they smote them with the edge of the sword; and the guard and the captains cast them out, and went to the city of the house of Baal.” - II Kings 10:11,18,19,25.
God is not the author of any man’s sin, but even by that which men do from bad principles, He serves His own purposes and takes vengeance on those who have defied Him. His judgment is upon all people, just as the Bible says, you reap what you sow, the wicked never go unpunished.
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.” - Galatians 6:7,8.
While God's judgment stands firm, He is willing to repent of that judgment and save the soul of those who truly want to redeem themselves. Even if a person has walked away from God He is faithful and just to redeem them. “ If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” - I John 1:9.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through Elisha, who sent one of the sons of the prophets with oil to anoint Jehu to be king. Oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit, and the Lord sent the Holy Spirit to anoint all believers of Christ. “But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.” - I John 2:27.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
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Tuesday, May 3, 2011
King James Bible Study: God's Mysteries
King James Bible Study: God's Mysteries
For: Tuesday May 03, 2011
Chapters: II Kings 6-8
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-3
Details of Today's Reading: Elisha recovers a lost ax, the siege of Samaria by the Syrians, the Syrians in terror of God, the famine predicted years ago taking place, Jehoram restores the Shunanmite land to them, and the wicked reigns of kings Jehoram, Ahaziah, and Joram.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
“Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 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 2:6-9.
Christian's have been blessed with something no person of the world can ever understand, the mysteries of God. While we can not know every mystery of God He can show us quite a bit, but the only way to know His mysteries is by reading His Word. Now, many theology scholars will try to prove that they know what God is trying to say in His Word, but a Christian, a true Christian, one that has been saved and lives in God's Word, will come to learn that no passage has the same meaning. God always has something hidden in there that we have not seen before. The only way to learn of these mysteries within the pages is through our Lord Jesus Christ, whom is the Lord of glory, and the only way to God and truly understanding His Word.
Elisha, a prophet, was also a teacher of the sons of the prophets, in other words, he taught the sons of men of God (preachers) to be preachers as well. Elisha was faithful, obedient, compassionate, and not only taught God's Word, but lived by it as well. Now, there were so many students that there was no room for them all, the students asked if they could build a bigger place. Elish willing to go with them was able to show them a rather interesting miracle from God.
“And the sons of the prophets said unto Elisha, Behold now, the place where we dwell with thee is too strait for us. Let us go, we pray thee, unto Jordan, and take thence every man a beam, and let us make us a place there, where we may dwell. And he answered, Go ye. And one said, Be content, I pray thee, and go with thy servants. And he answered, I will go...But as one was felling a beam, the axe head fell into the water: and he cried, and said, Alas, master! for it was borrowed. And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he shewed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast it in thither; and the iron did swim. Therefore said he, Take it up to thee. And he put out his hand, and took it.” - II Kings 6:1-3,5-7.
Sometimes God's miracles can seem odd or even a bit small, but who questions a miracle from God. All miracles come from the Almighty God and should always be praised. It's the small miracles that give us hope and increase our faith for the bigger miracles. The greatest miracle of all is given to every believer of the Lord Jesus Christ. When one gets baptized after they are saved it represents the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. We die to sin, the sin gets buried, and upon coming up out of the water we are resurrected. Talk about a miracle?
“Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:” - Romans 6:3-5.
Back in the Book of Deuteronomy it was foretold of the distress that would be placed upon Israel for turning their backs on God, “And thou shalt eat the fruit of thine own body, the flesh of thy sons and of thy daughters, which the LORD thy God hath given thee, in the siege, and in the straitness, wherewith thine enemies shall distress thee:” - Deuteronomy 28:53. God warned Israel if they turned from Him and began to worship and serve other gods, that He would bring them into distress, so much distress that there would be a famine so big that the people would be eating the heads of donkeys and their own children. That prophecy is now coming to pass.
“And there was a great famine in Samaria: and, behold, they besieged it, until an ass's head was sold for fourscore pieces of silver, and the fourth part of a cab of dove's dung for five pieces of silver...And the king said unto her, What aileth thee? And she answered, This woman said unto me, Give thy son, that we may eat him to day, and we will eat my son to morrow. So we boiled my son, and did eat him: and I said unto her on the next day, Give thy son, that we may eat him: and she hath hid her son. And it came to pass, when the king heard the words of the woman, that he rent his clothes; and he passed by upon the wall, and the people looked, and, behold, he had sackcloth within upon his flesh.” - II Kings 6:25,28-30.
The king, shuddering at hearing this horrible account, ripped off his clothes, revealing a sackcloth upon his head. The sackcloth was a sign of humiliation before God, perhaps Jehoram hoped to avert God's anger, as his father had done, but there was no spirit of self-humiliation, or of true repentance in his heart. It's not enough to know God's Word we must believe in it and follow all of it. “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, throughly furnished unto all good works.” - II Timothy 3:16,17.
God's Word is not just some book made up to pass the time, it is the inspired Word of God, meaning it has always been in existence, even before the world began. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” - John 1:1. God just decided to pen His Word using faithful men so we can know of some of His mysteries. Those who have accepted Christ as their Savior and allow Him to live through them learn of those mysteries little by little as they read His Word. Why? To teach the truth to others, that is God's main purpose.
“Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,” - Ephesians 3:8-10.
Got Questions? Get in the Book. Need Assurance? Get in the Book. Need Encouragement? Get in the Book. Need
Advice? Get in the Book. God will help you in every area of your life, you just have to be willing to listen, obey, and trust in God. “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” - Proverbs 3:5,6.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
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For: Tuesday May 03, 2011
Chapters: II Kings 6-8
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-3
Details of Today's Reading: Elisha recovers a lost ax, the siege of Samaria by the Syrians, the Syrians in terror of God, the famine predicted years ago taking place, Jehoram restores the Shunanmite land to them, and the wicked reigns of kings Jehoram, Ahaziah, and Joram.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
“Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought: But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 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 2:6-9.
Christian's have been blessed with something no person of the world can ever understand, the mysteries of God. While we can not know every mystery of God He can show us quite a bit, but the only way to know His mysteries is by reading His Word. Now, many theology scholars will try to prove that they know what God is trying to say in His Word, but a Christian, a true Christian, one that has been saved and lives in God's Word, will come to learn that no passage has the same meaning. God always has something hidden in there that we have not seen before. The only way to learn of these mysteries within the pages is through our Lord Jesus Christ, whom is the Lord of glory, and the only way to God and truly understanding His Word.
Elisha, a prophet, was also a teacher of the sons of the prophets, in other words, he taught the sons of men of God (preachers) to be preachers as well. Elisha was faithful, obedient, compassionate, and not only taught God's Word, but lived by it as well. Now, there were so many students that there was no room for them all, the students asked if they could build a bigger place. Elish willing to go with them was able to show them a rather interesting miracle from God.
“And the sons of the prophets said unto Elisha, Behold now, the place where we dwell with thee is too strait for us. Let us go, we pray thee, unto Jordan, and take thence every man a beam, and let us make us a place there, where we may dwell. And he answered, Go ye. And one said, Be content, I pray thee, and go with thy servants. And he answered, I will go...But as one was felling a beam, the axe head fell into the water: and he cried, and said, Alas, master! for it was borrowed. And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he shewed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast it in thither; and the iron did swim. Therefore said he, Take it up to thee. And he put out his hand, and took it.” - II Kings 6:1-3,5-7.
Sometimes God's miracles can seem odd or even a bit small, but who questions a miracle from God. All miracles come from the Almighty God and should always be praised. It's the small miracles that give us hope and increase our faith for the bigger miracles. The greatest miracle of all is given to every believer of the Lord Jesus Christ. When one gets baptized after they are saved it represents the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. We die to sin, the sin gets buried, and upon coming up out of the water we are resurrected. Talk about a miracle?
“Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:” - Romans 6:3-5.
Back in the Book of Deuteronomy it was foretold of the distress that would be placed upon Israel for turning their backs on God, “And thou shalt eat the fruit of thine own body, the flesh of thy sons and of thy daughters, which the LORD thy God hath given thee, in the siege, and in the straitness, wherewith thine enemies shall distress thee:” - Deuteronomy 28:53. God warned Israel if they turned from Him and began to worship and serve other gods, that He would bring them into distress, so much distress that there would be a famine so big that the people would be eating the heads of donkeys and their own children. That prophecy is now coming to pass.
“And there was a great famine in Samaria: and, behold, they besieged it, until an ass's head was sold for fourscore pieces of silver, and the fourth part of a cab of dove's dung for five pieces of silver...And the king said unto her, What aileth thee? And she answered, This woman said unto me, Give thy son, that we may eat him to day, and we will eat my son to morrow. So we boiled my son, and did eat him: and I said unto her on the next day, Give thy son, that we may eat him: and she hath hid her son. And it came to pass, when the king heard the words of the woman, that he rent his clothes; and he passed by upon the wall, and the people looked, and, behold, he had sackcloth within upon his flesh.” - II Kings 6:25,28-30.
The king, shuddering at hearing this horrible account, ripped off his clothes, revealing a sackcloth upon his head. The sackcloth was a sign of humiliation before God, perhaps Jehoram hoped to avert God's anger, as his father had done, but there was no spirit of self-humiliation, or of true repentance in his heart. It's not enough to know God's Word we must believe in it and follow all of it. “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, throughly furnished unto all good works.” - II Timothy 3:16,17.
God's Word is not just some book made up to pass the time, it is the inspired Word of God, meaning it has always been in existence, even before the world began. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” - John 1:1. God just decided to pen His Word using faithful men so we can know of some of His mysteries. Those who have accepted Christ as their Savior and allow Him to live through them learn of those mysteries little by little as they read His Word. Why? To teach the truth to others, that is God's main purpose.
“Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ; And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ: To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,” - Ephesians 3:8-10.
Got Questions? Get in the Book. Need Assurance? Get in the Book. Need Encouragement? Get in the Book. Need
Advice? Get in the Book. God will help you in every area of your life, you just have to be willing to listen, obey, and trust in God. “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” - Proverbs 3:5,6.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
Missed A Devotional: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/daily-bible-study
Subscribe To This Devotional: devotions@imfollowingjesus.com
King James Bible Study: Following Instructions
King James Bible Study: Following Instructions
For: Monday May 02, 2011
Chapters: II Kings 4-5
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-2
Details of Today's Reading: Elisha multiplies the widow's oil, the miracles of the Shunammite woman, her son, food unspoiled, and of feeding the sons of the prophets, Naaman's leprosy, Naaman healed by obeying Elisha’s word, Elisha refuses Naaman's gifts, Gehazi's deceitfulness in obtaining those gifts, and Gehazi is cursed with leprosy.
I apologize for the late posting, still catching up on days with no internet, all will resume to normal this evening. Thank you for your patience, God bless you.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
“For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself...And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.” - Galatians 5:13,14,24-26.
The word liberty is defined as freedom from restraint, to deliver from confinement. The second a person calls on the Lord Jesus Christ to save them they are set free, no longer bound by Satan nor subject to being confined in hell for eternity. Praise God! However, many use that liberty as a way to continue living a wicked life, in fact, I have heard people say to me, “I can kill a person and still go to heaven.” While it is true that a person who is saved can still go to heaven if they killed someone, God will not allow them to go about the liberty He gave them without some suffering themselves.
When Elisha asked Elisha for a double potion of his spirit before he got caught up in the whirlwind that would take him to heaven perhaps he did not expect all of Israel to know who he was, but Elisha not only received that double portion he became the most sought after man of God in the country. God used Elisha to show all of the world that He is still the Almighty, living God. All over Israel people were seeking Elisha's help.
“Now there cried a certain woman of the wives of the sons of the prophets unto Elisha, saying, Thy servant my husband is dead; and thou knowest that thy servant did fear the LORD: and the creditor is come to take unto him my two sons to be bondmen. And Elisha said unto her, What shall I do for thee? tell me, what hast thou in the house? And she said, Thine handmaid hath not any thing in the house, save a pot of oil. Then he said, Go, borrow thee vessels abroad of all thy neighbours, even empty vessels; borrow not a few. And when thou art come in, thou shalt shut the door upon thee and upon thy sons, and shalt pour out into all those vessels, and thou shalt set aside that which is full...Then she came and told the man of God. And he said, Go, sell the oil, and pay thy debt, and live thou and thy children of the rest.” - II Kings 4:1-4,7.
Elisha instructed this woman to go and borrow as many empty pots as she could, then fill the pots with the oil she had. By borrowing the empty pots it allowed her to see the miracle of God multiplying the oil to fill all of the pots and then some, not only paying off the debt without owing anything else, but still have some left over for her family. It is amazing how simple God supplies us with the things we are in need of, all we have to do to receive them is follow His instructions.
“Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” - Proverbs 3:3-6.
A little later we learn of a woman who desperately wanted a child, Elisha assured her that she would have a child and the following year and she did. Her joy would soon turn grievous when he suddenly died. Frantic, the woman went to Elisha for help.
“He went in therefore, and shut the door upon them twain, and prayed unto the LORD. And he went up, and lay upon the child, and put his mouth upon his mouth, and his eyes upon his eyes, and his hands upon his hands: and he stretched himself upon the child; and the flesh of the child waxed warm. Then he returned, and walked in the house to and fro; and went up, and stretched himself upon him: and the child sneezed seven times, and the child opened his eyes.” - II Kings 4:33-35.
Elisha used every natural means in his power to restore the boy's life, while begging God to do His part. Natural means are in our power, but those that are supernatural belong to God. God knows what is best for His children, He sees beyond what we see on the surface, whether He decides it is time to bring one of His children home or keep them on earth a little longer, He knows what is best. As we do our part, and beg God to do His part we are assured the best outcome. However, if all we do is sit there hoping for the best and never make an effort that faith will do is no good at all.
“Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” - James 2:17-20.
Now, we learn of a man named, Naaman, Naaman was a chief captain in the military, a mighty man of valor, he had one problem, he was leprous. Desperately seeking a cure for his illness he seeks help from Elisha.
“And Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean...And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean? Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.” - II Kings 5:10,13,14.
At first Naaman was reluctant to do what Elisha had instructed him to do, but after some encouragement he followed his instructions and was miraculously healed. Quiet often we do not receive God's blessings because we do not follow His instructions completely, but once we do the blessing pour in.
“Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways. Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.” - Proverbs 8:32,33.
Now, most people when they have been blessed are so overwhelmed and excited about what God had done for them that they can not stop praising God. Naaman was so happy that he wanted to thank Elisha for his help by giving him and his servants gifts. Elisha refused the gifts, explaining to him that God was the one who healed him so, it would not be right to accept his gifts. However, when his servant Gehazi saw that Elisha refused the gifts he wanted them for himself and went to Naaman after Elisha left.
“So Gehazi followed after Naaman. And when Naaman saw him running after him, he lighted down from the chariot to meet him, and said, Is all well? And he said, All is well. My master hath sent me, saying, Behold, even now there be come to me from mount Ephraim two young men of the sons of the prophets: give them, I pray thee, a talent of silver, and two changes of garments. And Naaman said, Be content, take two talents. And he urged him, and bound two talents of silver in two bags, with two changes of garments, and laid them upon two of his servants; and they bare them before him.” - II Kings 5:21-23.
This greedy servant persuaded himself into believing that God had blessed him with an opportunity to receive the reward. However, Gehazi would learn quickly that taking those gifts would curse him with the same disease that Naaman was cured of. God blesses us through our faithfulness and obedience to Him, those who use Him to satisfy their own fleshly lusts will also be cursed in the same way they deceived others.
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” - Galatians 6:7-9.
God will bless us with all we need when we fully trust in Him, serve Him faithfully, and follow His instructions.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through Elisha who gave his all to serve God. Jesus, gave His all to become a servant. “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” - Philippians 2:8.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
Missed A Devotional: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/daily-bible-study
Subscribe To This Devotional: devotions@imfollowingjesus.com
For: Monday May 02, 2011
Chapters: II Kings 4-5
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-2
Details of Today's Reading: Elisha multiplies the widow's oil, the miracles of the Shunammite woman, her son, food unspoiled, and of feeding the sons of the prophets, Naaman's leprosy, Naaman healed by obeying Elisha’s word, Elisha refuses Naaman's gifts, Gehazi's deceitfulness in obtaining those gifts, and Gehazi is cursed with leprosy.
I apologize for the late posting, still catching up on days with no internet, all will resume to normal this evening. Thank you for your patience, God bless you.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
“For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself...And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.” - Galatians 5:13,14,24-26.
The word liberty is defined as freedom from restraint, to deliver from confinement. The second a person calls on the Lord Jesus Christ to save them they are set free, no longer bound by Satan nor subject to being confined in hell for eternity. Praise God! However, many use that liberty as a way to continue living a wicked life, in fact, I have heard people say to me, “I can kill a person and still go to heaven.” While it is true that a person who is saved can still go to heaven if they killed someone, God will not allow them to go about the liberty He gave them without some suffering themselves.
When Elisha asked Elisha for a double potion of his spirit before he got caught up in the whirlwind that would take him to heaven perhaps he did not expect all of Israel to know who he was, but Elisha not only received that double portion he became the most sought after man of God in the country. God used Elisha to show all of the world that He is still the Almighty, living God. All over Israel people were seeking Elisha's help.
“Now there cried a certain woman of the wives of the sons of the prophets unto Elisha, saying, Thy servant my husband is dead; and thou knowest that thy servant did fear the LORD: and the creditor is come to take unto him my two sons to be bondmen. And Elisha said unto her, What shall I do for thee? tell me, what hast thou in the house? And she said, Thine handmaid hath not any thing in the house, save a pot of oil. Then he said, Go, borrow thee vessels abroad of all thy neighbours, even empty vessels; borrow not a few. And when thou art come in, thou shalt shut the door upon thee and upon thy sons, and shalt pour out into all those vessels, and thou shalt set aside that which is full...Then she came and told the man of God. And he said, Go, sell the oil, and pay thy debt, and live thou and thy children of the rest.” - II Kings 4:1-4,7.
Elisha instructed this woman to go and borrow as many empty pots as she could, then fill the pots with the oil she had. By borrowing the empty pots it allowed her to see the miracle of God multiplying the oil to fill all of the pots and then some, not only paying off the debt without owing anything else, but still have some left over for her family. It is amazing how simple God supplies us with the things we are in need of, all we have to do to receive them is follow His instructions.
“Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” - Proverbs 3:3-6.
A little later we learn of a woman who desperately wanted a child, Elisha assured her that she would have a child and the following year and she did. Her joy would soon turn grievous when he suddenly died. Frantic, the woman went to Elisha for help.
“He went in therefore, and shut the door upon them twain, and prayed unto the LORD. And he went up, and lay upon the child, and put his mouth upon his mouth, and his eyes upon his eyes, and his hands upon his hands: and he stretched himself upon the child; and the flesh of the child waxed warm. Then he returned, and walked in the house to and fro; and went up, and stretched himself upon him: and the child sneezed seven times, and the child opened his eyes.” - II Kings 4:33-35.
Elisha used every natural means in his power to restore the boy's life, while begging God to do His part. Natural means are in our power, but those that are supernatural belong to God. God knows what is best for His children, He sees beyond what we see on the surface, whether He decides it is time to bring one of His children home or keep them on earth a little longer, He knows what is best. As we do our part, and beg God to do His part we are assured the best outcome. However, if all we do is sit there hoping for the best and never make an effort that faith will do is no good at all.
“Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?” - James 2:17-20.
Now, we learn of a man named, Naaman, Naaman was a chief captain in the military, a mighty man of valor, he had one problem, he was leprous. Desperately seeking a cure for his illness he seeks help from Elisha.
“And Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean...And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean? Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.” - II Kings 5:10,13,14.
At first Naaman was reluctant to do what Elisha had instructed him to do, but after some encouragement he followed his instructions and was miraculously healed. Quiet often we do not receive God's blessings because we do not follow His instructions completely, but once we do the blessing pour in.
“Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways. Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.” - Proverbs 8:32,33.
Now, most people when they have been blessed are so overwhelmed and excited about what God had done for them that they can not stop praising God. Naaman was so happy that he wanted to thank Elisha for his help by giving him and his servants gifts. Elisha refused the gifts, explaining to him that God was the one who healed him so, it would not be right to accept his gifts. However, when his servant Gehazi saw that Elisha refused the gifts he wanted them for himself and went to Naaman after Elisha left.
“So Gehazi followed after Naaman. And when Naaman saw him running after him, he lighted down from the chariot to meet him, and said, Is all well? And he said, All is well. My master hath sent me, saying, Behold, even now there be come to me from mount Ephraim two young men of the sons of the prophets: give them, I pray thee, a talent of silver, and two changes of garments. And Naaman said, Be content, take two talents. And he urged him, and bound two talents of silver in two bags, with two changes of garments, and laid them upon two of his servants; and they bare them before him.” - II Kings 5:21-23.
This greedy servant persuaded himself into believing that God had blessed him with an opportunity to receive the reward. However, Gehazi would learn quickly that taking those gifts would curse him with the same disease that Naaman was cured of. God blesses us through our faithfulness and obedience to Him, those who use Him to satisfy their own fleshly lusts will also be cursed in the same way they deceived others.
“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” - Galatians 6:7-9.
God will bless us with all we need when we fully trust in Him, serve Him faithfully, and follow His instructions.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through Elisha who gave his all to serve God. Jesus, gave His all to become a servant. “And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.” - Philippians 2:8.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
Missed A Devotional: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/daily-bible-study
Subscribe To This Devotional: devotions@imfollowingjesus.com
Monday, May 2, 2011
King James Bible Study: Following Christ
King James Bible Study: Following Christ
For: Sunday May 01, 2011
Chapters: II Kings 1-3
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-1
Details of Today's Reading: Elijah’s message to king Ahaziah, the death of Ahaziah, the translation of Elijah, Elish'a desire to follow Elijah, Elish'a wish for a double portion of God's Spirit, the theological students and their unbelief, Elisha’s miracle, Moab rebels against Israel, three kings join forces to defeat Moab, the kings dig ditches, and Moab is defeated.
Those of you who read the devotions on a regular basis please bare with me as I am trying out a new layout for the devotions, thanks for your patience and faithfulness. God bless you. P.S. I apologize for the delay in receiving the message, I had no internet connection for a couple of days.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
“And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” - Luke 9:59-62.
These men believed in Jesus Christ, but they were making excuses about when to follow Him, the sad thing is that these men never got to heaven because they could not stop looking back. In other words, they were not willing to give up what they had in the world to follow Christ. The decision to follow Christ is one that will bring so many blessings, as long as one is willing to allow Christ to lead them, but we must make the choice for ourselves, no one can force us nor convince us to follow Christ, but ourselves.
The Book of II Kings is the twelfth book of the Old Testament/Bible and contains twenty-five chapters. The author of the book is Jeremiah and it was written to the Israelites. The time line for these events took place approximately from 896 BC to 588 BC. The purpose of the book was to record how God dealt with the Israelites before the coming of Christ. What we are to learn from the book is that the Kingdoms of this world are only temporal, they rise and fall and are all under God's control. “But the LORD your God ye shall fear; and he shall deliver you out of the hand of all your enemies.” - II Kings 17:39.
After the death of Ahab his son Ahaziah was now king, Ahaziah fell and was seriously ill, frantically searching for answers Ahaziah looked to the false god he only knew for answers. God sent Elijah to answer those questions.
“And the angel of the LORD said unto Elijah, Go down with him: be not afraid of him. And he arose, and went down with him unto the king. And he said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Forasmuch as thou hast sent messengers to enquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron, is it not because there is no God in Israel to enquire of his word? therefore thou shalt not come down off that bed on which thou art gone up, but shalt surely die.” - II Kings 1:15,16.
By the time Ahaziah did realize that there is only One God it was too late, he died that day never personally knowing the Almighty God was. Many people are going to be in for a shock when they realize God is no where to be found because they never took the time to personally get to know His Son.
“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” - Matthew 7:21-23.
There is a question that all will hear at one point in their lives, “If you died today are you 100% sure that you will be in heaven?” Not everyone knows that answer to that question. While we can not know the hour in which God decides to separate a soul from it's flesh we can know that our soul will be in heaven. Amazingly we learn of Elijah, who God had let know that it was time for him to come home, he would soon be caught up in a whirlwind and taken to heaven. Upon learning this he went to the different schools of the prophets to give them his last exhortations and blessing. While passing through Elisha follows him.
“And it came to pass, when the LORD would take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal...And Elijah said unto him, Tarry, I pray thee, here; for the LORD hath sent me to Jordan. And he said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they two went on...And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me. And he said, Thou hast asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it shall not be so.” - II Kings 2:1,6,9,10.
Three times Elijah told Elisha to stay where he was, but Elisha refused, saying “As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee.” Finally, Elijah asked what he could do for Elisha before God took him to heaven. Elisha saw the amazing blessings that God brought upon Elijah as he served Him, he not only wanted what Elijah had, he wanted a double portion of it. Jesus tells all who believe in Him that they will not only do the work He did, but even more.
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.” - John 14:12-14.
Elisha did receive a double portion of the spirit that Elijah had, but just as fast as he received it God put him to the test. God wants to make sure we follow through with our commitment to serve Him, so, He will put us through several tests to remind us of that commitment. Elisha was put to the test when three kings approached him.
“And Jehoshaphat said, The word of the LORD is with him. So the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat and the king of Edom went down to him. And Elisha said unto the king of Israel, What have I to do with thee? get thee to the prophets of thy father, and to the prophets of thy mother. And the king of Israel said unto him, Nay: for the LORD hath called these three kings together, to deliver them into the hand of Moab. And Elisha said, As the LORD of hosts liveth, before whom I stand, surely, were it not that I regard the presence of Jehoshaphat the king of Judah, I would not look toward thee, nor see thee.” - II Kings 3:12-14.
Elisha was not very keen on these kings coming to him, the only reason he even listened to them was because of Jehoshaphat, who was the only godly king among them. It is good being with those who have God's favor, and the love of his people. Wicked men often fare the better, for the friendship and society of good men. God only allows the wicked to prosper through the godly in an attempt to see the wicked turn from his wicked ways.
“Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” - James 5:19,20.
Jesus came to earth in the flesh to become the sacrifice that would save all mankind, but He will not save anyone who does not want to be saved. The key to being saved is not in the works we do, it's in believing and accepting Jesus Christ as our Savior. He and He alone is the only way to God and heaven. So, when asked, “Are you 100% sure that you will be in heaven? You can honestly say, I am going to heaven because I asked Jesus Christ to save me. Praise God!
“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.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the ascension of Elijah, Jesus ascended just as Elijah did and just as He went to heaven He will return in the same manner. “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.” - Acts. 1:11.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
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For: Sunday May 01, 2011
Chapters: II Kings 1-3
Click Here to Read Them or Go to: http://imfollowingjesus.com/bible-may-1
Details of Today's Reading: Elijah’s message to king Ahaziah, the death of Ahaziah, the translation of Elijah, Elish'a desire to follow Elijah, Elish'a wish for a double portion of God's Spirit, the theological students and their unbelief, Elisha’s miracle, Moab rebels against Israel, three kings join forces to defeat Moab, the kings dig ditches, and Moab is defeated.
Those of you who read the devotions on a regular basis please bare with me as I am trying out a new layout for the devotions, thanks for your patience and faithfulness. God bless you. P.S. I apologize for the delay in receiving the message, I had no internet connection for a couple of days.
Hello My Friend/Guest,
“And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.” - Luke 9:59-62.
These men believed in Jesus Christ, but they were making excuses about when to follow Him, the sad thing is that these men never got to heaven because they could not stop looking back. In other words, they were not willing to give up what they had in the world to follow Christ. The decision to follow Christ is one that will bring so many blessings, as long as one is willing to allow Christ to lead them, but we must make the choice for ourselves, no one can force us nor convince us to follow Christ, but ourselves.
The Book of II Kings is the twelfth book of the Old Testament/Bible and contains twenty-five chapters. The author of the book is Jeremiah and it was written to the Israelites. The time line for these events took place approximately from 896 BC to 588 BC. The purpose of the book was to record how God dealt with the Israelites before the coming of Christ. What we are to learn from the book is that the Kingdoms of this world are only temporal, they rise and fall and are all under God's control. “But the LORD your God ye shall fear; and he shall deliver you out of the hand of all your enemies.” - II Kings 17:39.
After the death of Ahab his son Ahaziah was now king, Ahaziah fell and was seriously ill, frantically searching for answers Ahaziah looked to the false god he only knew for answers. God sent Elijah to answer those questions.
“And the angel of the LORD said unto Elijah, Go down with him: be not afraid of him. And he arose, and went down with him unto the king. And he said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Forasmuch as thou hast sent messengers to enquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron, is it not because there is no God in Israel to enquire of his word? therefore thou shalt not come down off that bed on which thou art gone up, but shalt surely die.” - II Kings 1:15,16.
By the time Ahaziah did realize that there is only One God it was too late, he died that day never personally knowing the Almighty God was. Many people are going to be in for a shock when they realize God is no where to be found because they never took the time to personally get to know His Son.
“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” - Matthew 7:21-23.
There is a question that all will hear at one point in their lives, “If you died today are you 100% sure that you will be in heaven?” Not everyone knows that answer to that question. While we can not know the hour in which God decides to separate a soul from it's flesh we can know that our soul will be in heaven. Amazingly we learn of Elijah, who God had let know that it was time for him to come home, he would soon be caught up in a whirlwind and taken to heaven. Upon learning this he went to the different schools of the prophets to give them his last exhortations and blessing. While passing through Elisha follows him.
“And it came to pass, when the LORD would take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal...And Elijah said unto him, Tarry, I pray thee, here; for the LORD hath sent me to Jordan. And he said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they two went on...And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me. And he said, Thou hast asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it shall not be so.” - II Kings 2:1,6,9,10.
Three times Elijah told Elisha to stay where he was, but Elisha refused, saying “As the Lord liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee.” Finally, Elijah asked what he could do for Elisha before God took him to heaven. Elisha saw the amazing blessings that God brought upon Elijah as he served Him, he not only wanted what Elijah had, he wanted a double portion of it. Jesus tells all who believe in Him that they will not only do the work He did, but even more.
“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.” - John 14:12-14.
Elisha did receive a double portion of the spirit that Elijah had, but just as fast as he received it God put him to the test. God wants to make sure we follow through with our commitment to serve Him, so, He will put us through several tests to remind us of that commitment. Elisha was put to the test when three kings approached him.
“And Jehoshaphat said, The word of the LORD is with him. So the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat and the king of Edom went down to him. And Elisha said unto the king of Israel, What have I to do with thee? get thee to the prophets of thy father, and to the prophets of thy mother. And the king of Israel said unto him, Nay: for the LORD hath called these three kings together, to deliver them into the hand of Moab. And Elisha said, As the LORD of hosts liveth, before whom I stand, surely, were it not that I regard the presence of Jehoshaphat the king of Judah, I would not look toward thee, nor see thee.” - II Kings 3:12-14.
Elisha was not very keen on these kings coming to him, the only reason he even listened to them was because of Jehoshaphat, who was the only godly king among them. It is good being with those who have God's favor, and the love of his people. Wicked men often fare the better, for the friendship and society of good men. God only allows the wicked to prosper through the godly in an attempt to see the wicked turn from his wicked ways.
“Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.” - James 5:19,20.
Jesus came to earth in the flesh to become the sacrifice that would save all mankind, but He will not save anyone who does not want to be saved. The key to being saved is not in the works we do, it's in believing and accepting Jesus Christ as our Savior. He and He alone is the only way to God and heaven. So, when asked, “Are you 100% sure that you will be in heaven? You can honestly say, I am going to heaven because I asked Jesus Christ to save me. Praise God!
“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.
Jesus Revealed: Today Jesus is revealed through the ascension of Elijah, Jesus ascended just as Elijah did and just as He went to heaven He will return in the same manner. “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.” - Acts. 1:11.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Learn How Jesus Can Set You Free: http://www.godsprice.com
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com
Missed A Devotional: http://www.imfollowingjesus.com/daily-bible-study
Subscribe To This Devotional: devotions@imfollowingjesus.com
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