Staying Sober (Awake)

King James Bible Daily Devotion – Learning Scripture One Day At A Time
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2015
Chapters: Luke 21-22 http://imfollowingjesus.com/Bible-Reading-304.html
Message Title: Staying Sober (Awake)

Hello My Friend,

While every generation has had their share of signs that Christ is coming soon, this generation has had more than any. Those who know Him have no problem understanding that many of the wars, crazy events, and natural disasters of today are signs of His return. Of course, there is always someone predicting the day He will return and will get some people all stirred up, but I think that that is a way that God gets people to sober up and realize that He truly is coming one day. We who know Christ are not off the hook either, we need to keep watching and remain sober, because He will be here when we least expect it. “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. But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” - 2 Peter 3:9,10.

As Jesus was standing in front of the synagogue, He watched people casting money and highly valuable gifts into the offering plate, then something caught His attention. A little old lady, poor as can be, took all she had, which added up to about a penny, and cast it into the offering plate. “And he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury. And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had. And as some spake of the temple, how it was adorned with goodly stones and gifts, he said, As for these things which ye behold, the days will come, in the which there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down. And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass? And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them.” - Luke 21:1-8.

“And as some spake of the temple, how it was adorned with goodly stones” The little bit of money that this saved woman gave meant more to Jesus than what all that the rich unsaved men gave. People who are rich are not really depending on God to do anything for them, but perhaps have the idea that what they do in the church will save them. Good deeds and wealth does not save you, only believing in and personally asking Christ to save you saves you. He is coming and when He does all hell is literally going to break loose, no amount of money or possessions will save you when the destruction comes, but Christ will, if you have received Him. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” - Romans 10:9,10.

Throughout their journey, Jesus often spoke to the disciples of His coming death, burial, and resurrection. The question of when He will return came up, Jesus gave a parable to explain. “And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees; When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand. So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.” - Luke 21:29-36.

“And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged” Sober, Regular; calm; not under the influence of passion or intoxication. We are to observe the signs of the times, which will be wars and famines, earthquakes and unusual storms in strange places. Jesus spoke this parable in the spring, just before the Passover, when all the trees were budding on the mount of Olives. As Christian's, we are to remain sober, always watching for the signs of His return so we are prepared. If we are not prepared we are going to be like the millions of other people caught off guard and not be ready when something really bad happens. “Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed is he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.” - Revelation 16:15.

As they ate their last meal before Jesus would be betrayed and captured, He reveals that He knows one of them will betray Him. “And they began to enquire among themselves, which of them it was that should do this thing. And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest. And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that exercise authority upon them are called benefactors. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that doth serve. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? but I am among you as he that serveth. Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath appointed unto me; That ye may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.” - Luke 22:23-30.

“He that is chief, as he that doth serve” We may all have different titles, but we are all the same, sinners. The most powerful man or woman on earth can never save themselves. Those who humble themselves before Christ are stronger than any power man can obtain on earth. It is the humble ones, regardless of their power that get God's attention and blessings.“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:” - 1 Peter 5:6-8.

Today's Prayer: God, While I do not know the hour in which Your Son will return, I do know that He is coming and I want to be prepared. Lord, lead me not into temptations or worldly pursuits that take my eyes off of You. Help me to be a watchful and sober at all times and to be a witness to others so they too can know that You will save them too if they only believe. I love You Lord, and pray in Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Hardware That Will Not Break

King James Bible Daily Devotion – Learning Scripture One Day At A Time
Date: Friday, October 30, 2015
Chapters: Luke 19-20 http://imfollowingjesus.com/Bible-Reading-303.html
Message Title: Hardware That Will Not Break

Hello My Friend,

When I was a little girl I use to love to play with Lincoln logs, I use to get so mad when I would spend all day putting something together only to have it fall with one touch. I also had a Kinex set, the pieces held together with a screw and nut, there was something exciting about building something, seeing your creation unfold, and actually staying put. You know, when we accept Christ as our Saviour we were like the Lincoln logs, we tried building our lives on something, but one touch and it would fall. Now, we have Christ and He is the hardware, we need to keep from falling apart, if we apply Him upon every piece of our lives while we attempt to build this life we have been given we will. “According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” - 1 Corinthians 3:10,11.

“As a wise masterbuilder” While thousands of people get saved Jesus appoints those who are going to be fruitful in their walk with Him to serve Him until He either takes us home or returns. Part of building upon Christ is planting the Gospel in those who don't know Him. As Jesus passes through Jericho He sees a man named Zacchaeus up in a tree who was the chief tax collector, he had heard about Jesus passing through and wanted to see what He was all about. Jesus called him down from the tree, and everyone in his home got saved. As the Pharisees see Jesus associating with Zacchaeus they were applauded, bringing His to speak another parable.

“He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come. But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us. And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading. For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him. But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.” - Luke 19:12-15,26,27.

“We will not have this man to reign over us.” Many people know who Jesus is, but refuse to let Him be King and Lord of their lives, let alone admit they are sinners and need Him. Jesus doesn't force Himself upon anyone, we are all free to choose whom we make our Lord, even if it's ourselves. That does not mean that we will not be punished for breaking the law. There are consequences for breaking any law, including God's. “For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” - Romans 14:11,12.

Another part of building upon the foundation of Christ is walking with Him, talking with Him, making Him King and obeying His commands, even though He is not physically with us right now. As Jesus arrives in Jerusalem, the people rejoiced, except for the Pharisees, they couldn't stand hearing the people calling Jesus King.

“And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen; Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest. And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples. And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out. And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it, Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes. For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies shall cast a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep thee in on every side, And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.” - Luke 19:37-44.

“Because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.” Christ is returning, and no amount of ignorance or trying to silence those who know Him will stop that. People who deny Christ often taunt peace and coexistence with man are the first to try and quiet Christians, but there will always be someone willing to stand up. As Jesus sees the wicked and corrupted state of the city of God, He couldn't help, but cry. We must remember that even though Jesus weeps for church that claims to love God, He doesn't condone them for their wicked and corrupt behavior, they will be judged for what they do. We never know when our last breath will be, and we never know when He will the time of His visitation will come. We only have today, and as Christians we must be the ones shining the light of Christ on the dark and corrupted churches as well as the world. “Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed. But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:” - 1 Peter 2:7-9.

Jesus went into the temple and began upbraiding them for all the selling and trading that was going on in there. He was teaching there for days, and as always the Pharisees never stopped trying to catch Him doing or saying something that they could use to accuse Him and kill Him. He gives another parable about the lord of a vineyard who went away and put people in charge of it.

“And at the season he sent a servant to the husbandmen, that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat him, and sent him away empty. And again he sent another servant: and they beat him also, and entreated him shamefully, and sent him away empty. And again he sent a third: and they wounded him also, and cast him out. Then said the lord of the vineyard, What shall I do? I will send my beloved son: it may be they will reverence him when they see him. But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among themselves, saying, This is the heir: come, let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours. So they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. What therefore shall the lord of the vineyard do unto them? He shall come and destroy these husbandmen, and shall give the vineyard to others. And when they heard it, they said, God forbid. And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is written, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner? Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.” - Luke 20:10-18.

“Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken” The stone is Christ, if we willfully come to Him, believe in Him, and receive Him as our Saviour and King, the curse of death and hell will be broken. However, those who reject Him will face Him and His wrath, including thousands that know who He is, but deny Him as the Christ, the Son of God. The husbandmen are the religious people and or men and women of God who claim to know God, oh, they even know of Jesus, yet cast everyone out that knows Him, and even destroys Christ Himself. You can't say you love God, but hate Christ, they two are one, and if you reject the Son, He will reject you, it's that simple.

“That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father. Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.” - Ephesians 2:12,13,18-22.

Today's Prayer: God, I boldly declare that You are the living God whom I serve. Only a living God can turn evil into good, bring joy out of sorrow, and offer life beyond the grave. May I boldly proclaim You to be my King, my Lord, and my Saviour, and tell of all Your wondrous works. Lord, You have called me to serve You, and I want to serve You faithfully and obediently. Build me up and make me who You want me to be, give me Your power to be a witness, Your strength to be obedient, Your wisdom to know You more, Your protection from those who try to silence me, and help me endure all the affliction that accompanies being a servant of Yours. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Keep Up The Hard Work

King James Bible Daily Devotion – Learning Scripture One Day At A Time
Date: Thursday, October 29, 2015
Chapters: Luke 17-18 http://imfollowingjesus.com/Bible-Reading-302.html
Message Title: Keep Up The Hard Work

Hello My Friend,

Did you ever notice that we are in a me, myself, and I generation? You ask someone to do something and the first response is what do they get out of it. People don't want to work anymore, they want everything given to them at someone else's expense. Quite often, as Christians we are the ones working at the expense of others, and the sad thing is we don't always see a result. The good news is that what we do never goes unnoticed with God, and while we may from time to time see some rewards for our hard work here on earth, the majority of them will be when we see Jesus. “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” - 2 Corinthians 4:17,18.

Most people make the assumption that the twelve disciples Jesus had with Him all the time were of great faith and believers. While most of them were believers, their faith was no different then ours, in fact, they were no different than we are today. They often wondered who's works were greater, who actually will be saved, they got scared and had lack of faith too. As Jesus talks with them about what was about to come in the coming days they as Him to increase their faith. “And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith. And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you. But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat? And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink? Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not. So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.” - Luke 17:5-10.

“We are unprofitable servants” What Jesus is saying is that it takes hard work to increase our faith, yes, we only need faith the size of a mustard seed, but faith without works is dead. When we work for people we are servants, while they may thank us for our hard work, we are not expected to get much more than that because we are doing our duty. Every job in order to do it right requires hard work and faith, I build websites and if I want it to be functional and working properly it takes a lot of work and my faith that I can do it. I get paid for my work, but don't expect further rewards because I did my duty., but as long as I keep doing my duty as though I am unprofitable eventually I see rewards without even doing anything for them. Likewise, the same is true when we serve God. “What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him? If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” - James 2:14-17.

“Can faith save him?” We can faith in what Christ has done, but if we do not personally accept Him as our Saviour our faith is dead, it will not save us. Many of the Jews believed and still believe that the kingdom of God is an actual physical place. Jesus explains this further. “And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall preserve it. I tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one bed; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left. Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left. And they answered and said unto him, Where, Lord? And he said unto them, Wheresoever the body is, thither will the eagles be gathered together.” - Luke 17:20,21,33-37.

“Thither will the eagles be gathered together.” Many people take these verses out of context, some even go as far as making it sexual. This is referring to the rapture, when all saved souls, will rise up and literally be saved from judgment. Those in the graves will be raised, and taken up in the clouds, those who are still alive will be taken up with them, and the unsaved will be left to see their ruin. The Jews having made themselves dead carcases over their sinful works and not having faith in Christ, as eagles flock to dead flesh, so will death upon those who never receive Christ, regardless of their inheritance. “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.” - Hebrews 9:27,28.

It does take some work to serve God and follow Christ, they both must be intermittent if we are to see rewards for our hard work. As the disciples here all these things about the Kingdom of God, His return, and being His servants, they begin to wonder what will come of them for following and serving Him. “Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee. And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting. Then he took unto him the twelve, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished. For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on: And they shall scourge him, and put him to death: and the third day he shall rise again. And they understood none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were spoken.” - Luke 18:28-34.

“Who shall not receive manifold more in this present time” Exhibited or appearing at divers (different) times or in various ways. We may not see all the rewards for living a godly Christian life and doing the sometimes hard work it takes to be a servant of God, but they will come at different times, most when we see Jesus. Remember, the servant is not above His Master, if they mess with Jesus, they will mess with us, it's going to be hard at times, but we can do all things through Christ, and all the hard work will be worth it. “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” - Hebrews 12:1,2.

Today's Prayer: God, You have called us to not only be a witness of the amazing and blessed life we have when we follow You, but to serve You also. You have given us a great task, one that brings ravenous wolves and often hard work, and we may not see the results of it right now, but they will be eternal. Lord, I want to be the godly and faithful servant You called me to be, give me Your strength to walk with You, to obey, and serve You with all my heart, spirit, soul, and mind. In know with You I can do all things, and You will supply all my needs in Your riches and glory. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Proclaiming Christ And Keeping Him

King James Bible Daily Devotion – Learning Scripture One Day At A Time
Date: Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Chapters: Luke 14-16 http://imfollowingjesus.com/Bible-Reading-301.html
Message Title: Proclaiming Christ And Keeping Him

Hello My Friend,

Bidden, to proclaim; to make known by a public voice. To ask, request, or invite. Did you ever walk into a room, even a church, and see people grouped up in certain clicks? Everyone has people they draw closer to than others, if you notice the clicks, they are those who think alike, and not everyone is welcome. Even in a church people can spot a faithful, godly Christian from one who is not, and they will keep you out of their click if you are. Jesus knows the clicks, and if we are going to proclaim Him in public we might want to consider who we are doing it for, Jesus or the clicks. “And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.” - 2 Thessalonians 3:14,15.

Jesus was always invited to dinner often by the Pharisees, this was usually to question Him or catch Him doing something they could use to discredit Him. As He is in a Pharisees home He notices the clicks. “And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them, When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him; And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room. But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” - Luke 14:7-11.

“Begin with shame to take the lowest room” Shame, a painful sensation excited by a consciousness of guilt, or of having done something which injures reputation. We should never be so proud of ourselves that we think we are better than another. And getting around those who think they are only makes things worse, eventually all will fall. God lifts up the humble, not those who, quite frankly, think they do not need any improvements of themselves. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded. Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness. Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up. Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.” - James 4:8-11.

“Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep:” It often takes affliction to get us to see that we need God. As Jesus speaks, the people who thought themselves to be nothing gathered to hear more, while the Pharisees and scribes fussed over Him accepting them. Jesus uses a parable about a son who spends his fathers inheritance on a worldly life and what happens when he humbles himself and seeks his fathers forgiveness. “And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.” - Luke 15:17-24.

“He was lost, and is found.” It doesn't matter where we are in life, even strong Christians get times in their lives when they're contemplating the Christian life, some become stagnant for a while, some become distant, and some down right walk away from it. We are perfect, a perfect mess that is, and it often takes severe affliction and losing everything we have (regardless of what that everything is) to see we need Jesus. God loves us so much that even when we walk away, He welcomes us with open arms, and we are treated like royalty when we do, after all we are His saints and children. “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” - 1 John 1:7-10.




For those who think there is no heaven or hell, it exists just as we do. For those who do believe and think their heritage, works, or something else will save them they are gravely wrong. As the covetous Pharisees claimed that both their works of righteousness and inheritance saves them Jesus gives an amazing parable about an unsaved rich man and poor Lazarus in hopes that some would get that hint.

“And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence. Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house: For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment. Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.” - Luke 16:24-31.

“If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded,” There are some people no matter what they see will never believe. Look at all the people who witnessed Jesus doing all the amazing things He did, they believed Him to be of the devil and or a fake. Those are hearts so hardened that God will never get through, and while He gives all an opportunity to know His Son and be saved, some will never believe, and no amount of physical evidence will prove them otherwise. It's sad, but we are going to have family that we will not see in heaven because they rejected Christ. We should never stop praying for them, by the grace of God He may be able to afflict someone enough to believe, but there is nothing we can physically do to convince a hard heart to receive Christ. “It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself. Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.” - 2 Timothy 2:11-14.

Today's Prayer: God, Thank You for sending Your Son, Jesus Christ to save me, I know that I am not perfect, I know that I am going to mess up, but I also know that You are always with me and will never forsake me. If I get in a bind all I have to do is humble myself before You with all my heart and I will find You right there where You have been all along. Lord, I do not want to mess up in order to find You, give me Your power to walk with You, watch over me, guide me, and be with me in all that I do, keep me in the love of Christ, who is my only rest, strength, and hope for true riches. I ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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God's Knows The Way I Take

King James Bible Daily Devotion – Learning Scripture One Day At A Time
Date: Tuesday, October 27, 2015
Chapters: Luke 12-13 http://imfollowingjesus.com/Bible-Reading-300.html
Message Title: God's Knows The Way I Take

Hello My Friend,

I was talking to a woman about a position she was hiring for, I told her I was self employed for some time, and in fact, did that kind of work, but wanted a steady and permanent job. Well, she looked up my name, and found all the work I had done, the years I have done it, and immediately accused me of lying, being dishonest, and trying to take her business away. When she first accused me I got defenseless and even thought maybe I had done something wrong, but realized she was threatened by me and the only way she could stay in control was to make me look bad. Let me tell you, if you are a saved, born again Christian, the world is threatened by you and they will accuse you of many things to try and stay in control. That is when you turn God, praise Him, and realize He is always in control. “If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.” - 1 Peter 4:14.

You know, God knows how to take care of His people, and everything He allows in our lives, whether we are just self employed and living day by day our daily bread, He does it for a reason. Covetousness, lusting over something someone else has. We all want things, often we see something someone has and think it would be nice to have that too, but if we lust over the exact thing that is when it gets dangerous. As Jesus was speaking he was approached by a man. Two brothers were fighting over an inheritance given to them, one asked Jesus to speak to his brother about telling the brother to share what he has gotten. “And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” - Luke 12:15-21.

“Man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth” The things of this world will not satisfy the desires of a hungry soul. God takes care of His people, every hair on their bodies is protected, and to be honest, a saved born again Christian needs not even fear death because if we died today we would be with Jesus. What we do need to fear is what would happen to those who are not saved. While God does not want to see anyone end up in hell, that's exactly where they will end up if they have not received Christ as their Saviour. Those who seek God and His Kingdom will never have to worry about the things that the world has because He give us all His riches in glory. “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 4:19.

One of the best ways to be blessed on this earth is by being faithful to Christ and telling the world about Him. He is returning, and it's quicker than we think, while we do not know the hour in which He will, we do know that the signs are everywhere. There are a lot of people, even Christians, who question whether or not He will return, and has a warning for all, especially His servants. Jesus addressing His disciples says. “Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through. Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not. Then Peter said unto him, Lord, speakest thou this parable unto us, or even to all? And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.” - Luke 12:37-43.

“Come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants” It's easy to put on a good front and look like we are godly Christians during the daylight hours, but it's another when no one is watching. Godly Christians do not just appear godly when people are always watching, they are genuine and remain that way even when in the darkness. Let me tell you, this is a dark world, full of corruption and people trying to take our light away. We must remain in the light ourselves at all times so we do not get caught off guard. We are going to get accused of some of the most ridiculous things, but we can't let them hide the light in us. “Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:” - Ephesians 5:6-8.

Of course by now, all the people, including the disciples, were wondering just who would be the ones being cast into hell, certainly it must be those who are the worst sinners. Jesus responds, but is probably one that many do not want to hear. “Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them, Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are: Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.” - Luke 13:23-27.

“He shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are” Many people think that their works of righteousness will save them, but they arr forgetting one thing, they are thinking that what they are doing is good. Our good, no matter how sincere, will never measure up to what God's good is, to be good means to be perfect and no one, except Jesus is perfect. God sent His Son to give all the chance to get in the door before He returns. “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one. For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:” - Romans 3:10-12,23,24.

Today's Prayer: (adapted from Psalms 23 & 31) God, The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Into thine hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth. I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy: for thou hast considered my trouble; thou hast known my soul in adversities; Lord, lead me and guide me, shine Your light in me and let me be a reflection of You no matter what I get accused of. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Being A Voice For Christ

King James Bible Daily Devotion – Learning Scripture One Day At A Time
Date: Monday, October 26, 2015
Chapters: Luke 10-11 http://imfollowingjesus.com/Bible-Reading-299.html
Message Title: Being A Voice For Christ

Hello My Friend,

Voice, a vote; an opinion or choice expressed. I have to admit that my voice gets away with me sometimes. I am in no way rude, but if I see something that is just wrong I have a tendency to speak my mind, sometimes without thinking about it before I express it. A voice is good to have, we should by no means try to argue our point to someone who just won't hear it, but it's important as Christians that we have a voice that speaks the truth about Jesus, after all we are His voice. “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.” - 1 John 4:4-6.

Over the years you may have gotten an invite by someone from a Baptist church with a version of the Gospel spoken, Baptist churches going soul winning are becoming few and far between making way for the Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormons, and Muslims to preach their messages and false gospels. Jesus actually started soul winning in the neighborhoods. “After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come. Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest. Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves. Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way. And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house. And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again. And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.” - Luke 10:1-7.

“For the labourer is worthy of his hire” You want to be truly blessed? Go soul winning. Be God's voice, grab a friend, knock some doors or just go up to someone that the Holy Spirit puts on your heart and tell them how Jesus can save them. Being a voice for Christ does come with a price, we will deal with some wolves, but we will also reap the rewards, not only may we lead a lost soul to Christ, we will see God's blessings, even if we did not see them receive Christ. “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.” - Proverbs 11:30,31.

There were always people trying to discredit Jesus and His Gospel, many still today try to use works as a means to be saved. An arrogant lawyer stood up, questioning Jesus about inheriting eternal life, many of the Jews thought that their inheritance meant they would be saved, and or their works would save them. Jesus responds with a parable and a question for him. “But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour? And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.” - Luke 10:29-33,36,37.

“Go, and do thou likewise.” Who is our neighbor? Anyone who lives among us. Jesus gave His life for all, Jew and Gentile, and only He is needed for our salvation. Being a voice for Christ does come with some opposition from religious groups trying and discredit us so they can keep spreading their lies. Jesus is not just a prophet that some claim Him to be, you can't win your own soul after you die, and there is no amount of works or righteousness that can save us. We need Christ, if any other gospel is preached it is false and we need to steer clear of it. “I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed.” - Galatians 1:6-8.

“Let him be accursed.” Accursed, doomed to destruction or misery. Do you think that Jesus does not know who is out there preaching a false gospel? He does, and He calls out all the religious groups who do, and they are doomed to destruction. “But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. Woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are as graves which appear not, and the men that walk over them are not aware of them. Then answered one of the lawyers, and said unto him, Master, thus saying thou reproachest us also. And he said, Woe unto you also, ye lawyers! for ye lade men with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch not the burdens with one of your fingers.” - Luke 11:42-46.

“For ye are as graves which appear not” Ever hear of the walking dead? Well, there are literally dead people, who are very religious, walking around all over the world, many follow them and do not know any better. A soul that does not have Christ is a dead soul, it's missing the Spirit of God in it upon birth. When we learn of, believe in, and receive Christ as our Saviour, His Spirit comes in us and we are now living souls, even when the flesh dies we are still alive and well with Christ. “But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:” - 1 Thessalonians 4:13-16. Praise God!

Today's Prayer: Jesus, I want to be a Your voice, to be a witness and a testimony for others to see the amazing life that they too can have when they place their faith and trust in You. I know the devil and his wolves are on my back and waiting for me to fall, but by Your power I know I can remain standing. I have confidence in knowing that if I do fall You are always there to pick me up. And thank You Lord, for all the joys, sorrows, and tears you place before me so I can be Your voice and truly be blessed by telling my neighbors about You. In Your name Jesus. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Letting Christ Get Things Done

King James Bible Daily Devotion – Learning Scripture One Day At A Time
Date: Sunday, October 25, 2015
Chapters: Luke 8-9 http://imfollowingjesus.com/Bible-Reading-298.html
Message Title: Letting Christ Get Things Done

Hello My Friend,

As Christians, we must admit that there are times when we can't even trust ourselves to get things done, let alone trust Jesus to get things done for us. However, it is only when we put our complete trust in Him that He will be able to direct our paths and get things done. God wants us to acknowledge Him in all things, the more we acknowledge Him the more we will follow His commands, the more we follow His commands the more learn to trust only in Him. “My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. 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. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil.” - Proverbs 3:1-7.

“In all thy ways acknowledge him” The key to acknowledging God and trusting Him to get things done for us is to remain in His Word so we can understand His simple ways. Jesus had one objective here on earth, besides taking the sins of every person to the cross with Him, it was to teach His Gospel His way. Jesus could not stress this more and that is why He often spoke in parables, if they could understand a simple story they could believe and be saved. Jesus tells all to listen to what is being said about the Gospel, there is only one way to God, many will think they are saved only to get the worst wake up call of their lives.

“No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light. For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad. Take heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he seemeth to have. Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press. And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee. And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.” - Luke 8:16-21.

“For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest” Nothing about knowing and having a relationship with God is a secret, there are no secret codes, there is no secret rituals, and there are definitely no secret works that save your soul from hell, there is only believing in Jesus. Jesus did not speak in parables to confuse people, He spoke to help them understand, it often takes a basic story to give a simple, but effective message. God is not the one who confuses people, people are, and their crazy religions. “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.” - 1 Corinthians 14:33.

As Jesus went from town to town, something amazing was happening, more and more people started believing, Jews and Gentiles alike. A man named Jairus, had a twelve year old daughter that was dying, when he heard that Jesus was in town, he ran up to Him and begged Him to come to his house. “But as he went the people thronged him. While he yet spake, there cometh one from the ruler of the synagogue's house, saying to him, Thy daughter is dead; trouble not the Master. But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear not: believe only, and she shall be made whole. And when he came into the house, he suffered no man to go in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father and the mother of the maiden. And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead. And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, saying, Maid, arise. And her spirit came again, and she arose straightway: and he commanded to give her meat.” - Luke 8:49-55.

“Fear not: believe only,” Everyone who, by faith believes that Jesus can heal them, not only from their illnesses, or diseases but their sins as well will be healed. It may not be in the way we expect, but whatever decision God makes in how He makes us whole it's His decision. Why then do so many people die that believe? They are not dead, only sleeping. Every, born again believer has a living soul filled with the Spirit of God in it, and while the physical body will die, the soul is alive and well with Jesus in heaven. We need not fear death or anyone else who died that accepted Jesus as their Saviour, but those who have not there is no hope for them. “For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and lose himself, or be cast away? For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels. But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God.” - Luke 9:25-27.

“Of him shall the Son of man be ashamed,” Jesus does not force Himself on anyone, but if they deny Him, He will deny them. No person saved should be ashamed to say that they know Christ, no matter where they are. Now, there are ways we can tell people about Jesus without throwing a bunch of Scripture in the story, simple stories still today save many people. People all over the world are able to teach Jesus in places where it is even against the law to talk about Him, it's all about trusting God and letting Him use us in His way. When we put our trust in Him, we will be blessed and He will get things done for us. “For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” - Romans 10:11-13.

Today's Prayer: Jesus, You complete me, and make me whole. While I know that all things are possible with You, I know my fears weaken my faith and can hinder me from seeing You work in my life. Lord, You are my strength, so give me Your strength, increase my faith, and give me Your power to get through my troubles. Walk with me, guide me, and give me the peace I need to follow Your ways, and wait for You to get things done for me. In Your name, Jesus, Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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