King James Bible Daily Devotion – Learning
Scripture One Day At A Time
Date:
Saturday,
November 28, 2015
Chapters:
1
Corinthians 13-16
Message
Title: Love
As Christ Loves
Hello My Friend,
Work,
to move, to be occupied in performing manual labor, to carry on
operations, to produce effects by action or influence. We all work at
something, a job, a career, a family, an education, perhaps even to
please God. Have you ever worked so hard at something only to see it
fail? We all have, and it can be down right shattering to the heart.
We feel like failures, all the time we put in as worthless. Let me
tell you, as long as we are saved no work we do with God in the
picture is a failure, we may not have gotten the results we wanted,
but nothing we do in the presence of God is worthless or goes
unnoticed. “Every man's work shall be made
manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed
by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.
If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall
receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer
loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.” - 1
Corinthians 3:13-15.
Last year I made a birthday cake for
someone I went to church with, it took me two days to sculpt and
decorate it, and it was beautiful. During transport the cake got
tipped over and fell apart, that nice Christian lady turned out to be
a monster. That incident scarred me and I lost my love for making
cakes, it took me several months before I made another cake for
someone, and it was not my best. If we don't love what we do, the
skills and talents we have are worthless as the results are not going
to be what we know we can do. Charity, In a general sense, is love,
good will toward man. In a theological sense, it includes supreme
love to God, and universal good will to man. When most people hear
the word charity they think of giving money or something they no
longer need. Paul stresses the importance that all Christians place
love above all things.
“Though I
speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I
am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have
the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all
knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove
mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow
all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be
burned, and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity
suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth
not itself, is not puffed up, Charity never faileth: but whether
there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they
shall cease; whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. And
now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of
these is charity.” - 1 Corinthians 13:1-4,8,13.
“Charity
never faileth:” Of everything that God blesses us with,
nothing is more joyous to Him than for us to use our blessings to
love Him with all our heart and show that love to others by blessing
them as He blessed us. We can serve God and man all we want, but
unless we do it with love, we will never see the joy in it. True joy
comes when we love someone the way Christ loves us. “These
things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and
that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, That ye love one
another, as I have loved you.” - John 15:11,12.
Now,
once we learn to love as Christ everything else will fall into place
as we develop our skills with Him in mind. Our biggest tool to
understand God and learn to love as Christ is reading His Word. One
thing we must realize when the King James Bible was translated into
English is that it may have added words to explain what is being
interpreted, these are found in italics. This is not adding to
Scripture, but one word in English is often written with two or three
in other languages which is why it appears in italics. We don't need
another Bible to explain God's Word, we just need the Holy Spirit.
The truth is, it takes a willing, Holy Spirit filled, Christ
centered, Bible reading Christian to love as Christ loves. Our
biggest act of love is preaching the Gospel, which Paul stresses as
the most important job of all.
“Follow
after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may
prophesy. For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto
men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the
spirit he speaketh mysteries. But he that prophesieth speaketh unto
men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. He that speaketh in
an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth
the church. I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that
ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that
speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may
receive edifying. Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that
believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not
for them that believe not, but for them which believe. If any man
speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by
three, and that by course; and let one interpret.” - 1
Corinthians14:1-5,22,27.
“For he
that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men,”
Tongues, Speaking in different languages. Speaking in tongues is just
another way of being able to speak several languages, it's not the
mumbo jumbo you hear some people claim are tongues. “but
rather that ye may prophesy.” Prophecy, this simply means
that we who know Christ is returning and going to judge the entire
human race are to preach the Gospel to those who don't know. God
wants us to teach the Gospel in a language that people understand,
not something no one can figure out. We must understand that
everything in the Bible is true and we need to follow all of it.
Sadly, many do not believe this and are suffering greatly. Paul had
to address the importance of understanding the Gospel, and us
believing all of it.
“Now if
Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you
that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no
resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be
not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.
Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have
testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if
so be that the dead rise not. If in this life only we have hope in
Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen
from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For
since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the
dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made
alive.” - 1 Corinthians 15:12-15,19-22.
“and
your faith is also vain.” If we believe that Christ died for
us, we must also believe that He arose, and gives eternal life to all
who believe. It is actually the Holy Spirit that teaches people of
these truths, besides all that, think about this. Why did Jesus die
to save souls if there is no soul to save? He suffered pain,
humiliation, and death for no reason at all? Doubting the
resurrection of Christ is all a plot from Satan to get people
doubting life after death, he gets people thinking that once they die
its all over. The truth is, it's not over, once the flesh dies there
is another death for those who do not believe, hell or eternal death.
I for one, even if there was a slight chance that all this is a bunch
of garbage, want to make sure I'm not burning for an eternity.
“Marvel not at this: for the hour is
coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice,
And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection
of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of
damnation.” - John 5:28,29.
Another act of
love is giving tithes and offerings, oh yes, that dreaded speech of
giving money to the church. So many claim that after Christ there is
no need to give tithes and offerings, but this is not true. Now, you
will often hear of tithes being a tenth of what we make, this is just
a guide, and if you looked throughout Scripture, they often gave more
than that. So, Paul makes it easy for us to understand. “Now
concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to
the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. Upon the first day of the
week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered
him, that there be no gatherings when I come. If any man love not the
Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha. The grace of our
Lord Jesus Christ be with you. My love be with you all in Christ
Jesus. Amen.” - 1 Corinthians 1:16:1,2,22-24.
“let
him be Anathema Maranatha.” The word Anathema means a person
that is accursed to damnation (hell), the word Maranatha means our
Lord is coming. Jesus is coming, and he will judge those who have
rejected Him. Christ is the judge of everyone, anyone who has not
accepted Him as their Saviour will be cast into the fire. It's simple
to be saved, admit you are a sinner, believe in the Gospel, and
Confess that you need Him to save you. Everything else we do in this
life, all the work we do has a big influence on not only others, but
God. God blesses us greatly when we do His work, and even more when
we do our own work with the love of Christ in us. “For
ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God,
ye might receive the promise.” - Hebrews 10:36.
Today's
Prayer: God, It is truly amazing that with all the trials
and tribulations I have brought upon myself You use all of them for
me to serve a purpose for You. Thank You for Your mercy, grace, and
love, and for giving me the spiritual gifts that You have given me,
may I know how to use them all for Your glory. Lord, lead me and
guide me, help me to learn to yield to the Holy Spirit as He teaches
me to serve You with all my heart, soul, and might. Give me a heart
that loves as Jesus does, and let all my work be a godly influence on
those around me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
God Bless You, I
am praying for you,
Christina
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Saturday, November 28, 2015
Being An Example Of Christ
King James Bible Daily Devotion –
Learning Scripture One
Day At A Time
Date: Friday, November 27, 2015
Chapters: 1 Corinthians 9-12
Message Title: Being An Example Of Christ
Hello My Friend,
An example is a pattern or a copy of someone or thing, we are copies of other people, in fact, we are copies of several people, whether we have a good or bad influence on others, our example is what someone else will follow. That's why it is important as Christians that we follow the example of Christ. “For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” - John 13:15-17.
“happy are ye if ye do them.” The Christian life is not something that is forced upon us, it's a choice, but if we are going to choose Christ, we must live a life that is pleasing to God. When Jesus was here in the flesh His main objective apart from fulfilling the Gospel was preaching the Gospel. Every saved soul is to willingly preach the Gospel to the lost. Why? Paul explains the importance of living and preaching the Gospel.
“If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things? If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ. Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel. But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void. For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me.” - 1 Corinthians 9:11-17.
“lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.” People are dying and going to hell every day, people that actually believe in God and Jesus, but never heard the Gospel, I use to be one of them. Unless we understand what the Gospel is, live it, and teach it we are going to lose family and friends more than just by death, they will be in hell. They will die not knowing Christ as their Saviour, and we will be haunted by that for the rest of our lives. “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.
Many people dismiss the Old Testament as if it does not relate to us today, but it is important that we know and study both testaments. While we are not bound the laws God gave the Jews before Jesus came, we are bound to the blood, God, and Jesus. Paul explains to the people at Corinth that the people of the Old Testament were the example, many were an example that we are not to follow.
“The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread. Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he? All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.” - 1 Corinthians 10:16,17,21-23.
“All things are lawful for me,” While there were millions of people that were examples that God could have given us as examples He chose these men, women, and children. God used people of every faith known to man as an example so that all walks of life can know the truth about God, His blessings, and warnings of judgment. There is nothing that we see today that God has not seen already, and if we take the time to study all of His Word we will see that the world was just as corrupt before Jesus came as it is today and it's going to get worse before He returns, which is also written in both the Old and New Testaments. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” - 2 Corinthians 5:10.
As Christians, we must be godly examples in and out of the church, and that means following the examples that Christ laid out for us, no, we are not to be human sacrifices, but living sacrifices. Paul addresses both men and women, stress the importance for certain roles in public as well as in the home.
“Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you. But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God. Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonoureth his head. But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven. For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered. For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man.” - 1 Corinthians 11:2-7.
“and the head of the woman is the man;” There are different roles that women and men play in and out of the church. Christ is the head of every individual, as he is the Creator and Preserver of all mankind. The woman, and since Eve was created for Adam, is made to honor her husband, encourage, and support him. Those that have no husband are still subject to mans rules, this does not mean women are slaves to men, just that they are not to be above men in any position. Since we are the weaker vessel (Eve was deceived by Satan first) the man is the head of the woman to provide and care for her, to nourish and cherish her, and to protect and defend her against all insults and injuries. “The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife. Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.” - 1 Corinthians 7:4,5.
The Body of Christ in the world is for the service of Christ, and the body is to serve the Head. The gifts and graces of the members of the body greatly differ, but are freely given of God through the Holy Spirit. The Corinthians were arguing whether or not their serving God was more significant than others. Paul explains that all who are saved are members of the body of Christ and play a part in serving Him. “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.” - 1 Corinthians 12:1,4-6,11,28.
“diversities of tongues.” This means that some of us can speak and interpret several languages. Since all the spiritual gifts in the members of the body of Christ proceed from the Holy Spirit that indwells in them, no member may boast over their abilities, and no member, however insignificant, may consider themselves of no value, but is equally obligated to be yielded to the Spirit. Whether a person is gifted by God to provide one service or many we are all significant to God, no one is left out, yet no one is irreplaceable, we are merely servants sent to do the work He called us to do at the time we are doing it. “Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. We are fools for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised...For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.” - 1 Corinthians 4:1,2,10,20.
Today's Prayer: God, I want to thank You for Your goodness in supplying for all my needs. Certainly You’ve blessed me with physical blessings such as food, clothing, shelter, but You also shower me with spiritual blessings as You allow me to be one of Your ministers. Lord, I want my testimony to be an example of Your life-changing, all-sufficient, and all-sustaining mercy, grace, and love to all who need to know Your Son. Lead me and guide me, make me the example You need me to be. I love You Lord, and pray in Jesus' name. Amen.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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Date: Friday, November 27, 2015
Chapters: 1 Corinthians 9-12
Message Title: Being An Example Of Christ
Hello My Friend,
An example is a pattern or a copy of someone or thing, we are copies of other people, in fact, we are copies of several people, whether we have a good or bad influence on others, our example is what someone else will follow. That's why it is important as Christians that we follow the example of Christ. “For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him. If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” - John 13:15-17.
“happy are ye if ye do them.” The Christian life is not something that is forced upon us, it's a choice, but if we are going to choose Christ, we must live a life that is pleasing to God. When Jesus was here in the flesh His main objective apart from fulfilling the Gospel was preaching the Gospel. Every saved soul is to willingly preach the Gospel to the lost. Why? Paul explains the importance of living and preaching the Gospel.
“If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things? If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ. Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel. But I have used none of these things: neither have I written these things, that it should be so done unto me: for it were better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void. For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! For if I do this thing willingly, I have a reward: but if against my will, a dispensation of the gospel is committed unto me.” - 1 Corinthians 9:11-17.
“lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.” People are dying and going to hell every day, people that actually believe in God and Jesus, but never heard the Gospel, I use to be one of them. Unless we understand what the Gospel is, live it, and teach it we are going to lose family and friends more than just by death, they will be in hell. They will die not knowing Christ as their Saviour, and we will be haunted by that for the rest of our lives. “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.
Many people dismiss the Old Testament as if it does not relate to us today, but it is important that we know and study both testaments. While we are not bound the laws God gave the Jews before Jesus came, we are bound to the blood, God, and Jesus. Paul explains to the people at Corinth that the people of the Old Testament were the example, many were an example that we are not to follow.
“The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread. Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils. Do we provoke the Lord to jealousy? are we stronger than he? All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.” - 1 Corinthians 10:16,17,21-23.
“All things are lawful for me,” While there were millions of people that were examples that God could have given us as examples He chose these men, women, and children. God used people of every faith known to man as an example so that all walks of life can know the truth about God, His blessings, and warnings of judgment. There is nothing that we see today that God has not seen already, and if we take the time to study all of His Word we will see that the world was just as corrupt before Jesus came as it is today and it's going to get worse before He returns, which is also written in both the Old and New Testaments. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” - 2 Corinthians 5:10.
As Christians, we must be godly examples in and out of the church, and that means following the examples that Christ laid out for us, no, we are not to be human sacrifices, but living sacrifices. Paul addresses both men and women, stress the importance for certain roles in public as well as in the home.
“Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you. But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God. Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonoureth his head. But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven. For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered. For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man.” - 1 Corinthians 11:2-7.
“and the head of the woman is the man;” There are different roles that women and men play in and out of the church. Christ is the head of every individual, as he is the Creator and Preserver of all mankind. The woman, and since Eve was created for Adam, is made to honor her husband, encourage, and support him. Those that have no husband are still subject to mans rules, this does not mean women are slaves to men, just that they are not to be above men in any position. Since we are the weaker vessel (Eve was deceived by Satan first) the man is the head of the woman to provide and care for her, to nourish and cherish her, and to protect and defend her against all insults and injuries. “The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife. Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.” - 1 Corinthians 7:4,5.
The Body of Christ in the world is for the service of Christ, and the body is to serve the Head. The gifts and graces of the members of the body greatly differ, but are freely given of God through the Holy Spirit. The Corinthians were arguing whether or not their serving God was more significant than others. Paul explains that all who are saved are members of the body of Christ and play a part in serving Him. “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.” - 1 Corinthians 12:1,4-6,11,28.
“diversities of tongues.” This means that some of us can speak and interpret several languages. Since all the spiritual gifts in the members of the body of Christ proceed from the Holy Spirit that indwells in them, no member may boast over their abilities, and no member, however insignificant, may consider themselves of no value, but is equally obligated to be yielded to the Spirit. Whether a person is gifted by God to provide one service or many we are all significant to God, no one is left out, yet no one is irreplaceable, we are merely servants sent to do the work He called us to do at the time we are doing it. “Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. We are fools for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised...For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power.” - 1 Corinthians 4:1,2,10,20.
Today's Prayer: God, I want to thank You for Your goodness in supplying for all my needs. Certainly You’ve blessed me with physical blessings such as food, clothing, shelter, but You also shower me with spiritual blessings as You allow me to be one of Your ministers. Lord, I want my testimony to be an example of Your life-changing, all-sufficient, and all-sustaining mercy, grace, and love to all who need to know Your Son. Lead me and guide me, make me the example You need me to be. I love You Lord, and pray in Jesus' name. Amen.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
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Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.
Thursday, November 26, 2015
Be A Vessel Of Honor
King
James Bible Daily Devotion – Learning
Scripture One Day At A Time
Date: Thursday, November 26, 2015
Chapters: 1 Corinthians 5-8
Message Title: Be A Vessel Of Honor
Hello My Friend,
Fornication, this is not something we like to talk about, in fact, it's a very dirty word among not only those in the world, but in the church as well. What exactly is fornication? It's any immoral act done with the body. We all know that premarital sex is fornication, but so is adultery, drug addiction, food addiction, homosexuality, yes, I dare say it, alcohol addiction, and idolatry. We can think and do a lot of sinful things, but acts of the flesh carry a heavy weight on us if we don't get a handle on them. “Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.” - 1 Corinthians 6:18.
My old church has a motto, “Come as you are, leave better.” The Christian life is not one of just knowing that you accepted Christ as your Saviour and are saved from hell, it's a life of progress. While our works do not get us to heaven and God for our salvation they do play a part in our lives after we are saved. Yes, all are welcome to come to church no matter what they have done, but as we allow Christ to live in and through us, He should become prominent in our lives. As Paul learned what was going on with the Corinthians he was disturbed by some of the incidents that he found, in his letter he addresses those who were not only condoning fornication in the church, but something rather incestuous. He reminds them that they are saved under the blood of Christ, and that is more cause to live a moral life, he literally tells them to kick the fornicators out of the church.
“Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.” - 1 Corinthians 5:7-13.
“that ye may be a new lump,” As we allow Christ to live in and through us, He purges out the old leaven, the sinful things we had no idea were sin until we knew Christ, and replaces them with godly things. Until we remove the bad lumps, including people that keep us in sin, we will suffer greatly. I've been there, twelve years ago I was living with a man, he had to go because he had no intentions of living his life for Christ. You want to know why the churches are a mess? It's because sinful behavior is condoned and even accepted in them. Like I said, we are work in progress, we are not perfect, but we are not to condone sinful behavior, especially in the church. Paul lists all the things that contribute to fornication, reminding them that they are justified by Christ.
“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body.” - 1 Corinthians 6:9-13.
“And such were some of you:” Effeminate is a man that acts like a woman, abusers of themselves with mankind is homosexuality, being covetous is lusting for what others have, these are all acts of fornication. When we accept Christ as our Saviour we are washed clean from all these things. Praise God! Anyone committing these acts, even if they are saved faces severe repercussions in doing so. “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.”- 1 Corinthians 6:19,20.
In reality, the world has no idea what they are naturally doing is sin, that is why it is important for the church to explain it right from the Word of God. Another act of fornication that Paul addresses is food, eating things that are offered by idols.“Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one. For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled.” - 1 Corinthians 8:1,4-7.
“and their conscience being weak is defiled.” Things offered to idols, one of the biggest ways to deceive people is by offering them food or other comforts. Think about it, I have seen several converts turn to false religion because they gave them food or money. We have to be careful where we get things from, and what we do when offered them. We were bought with a price, Christ gave His life for us so we don't have to end up burning in the lake of fire. We should be honored that Jesus Christ has chosen us to set an example and show others that while we were once dead in sin we are now risen from the dead and alive through Him. Our bodies have been redeemed by His atoning sacrifice, let's show Him our gratitude by being a vessel of honor, not dishonor. “If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.” - 2 Timothy 2:21.
Today's Prayer: God, Thank You for sending Your Son to save me, I am redeemed and saved from hell because I believe in His sinless death, burial, and resurrection, confessed that I am a sinner, and asked Him to save me. While I do not intentionally try to let You down, I know I will at times. Lord, feed me with the spiritual things I need to keep me healthy in mind, body, and spirit. Help me to avoid the lumps of the world that constantly trie to defile my relationship with You. Only by Your power can I resist temptation and see Your blessings unfold. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
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Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.
Date: Thursday, November 26, 2015
Chapters: 1 Corinthians 5-8
Message Title: Be A Vessel Of Honor
Hello My Friend,
Fornication, this is not something we like to talk about, in fact, it's a very dirty word among not only those in the world, but in the church as well. What exactly is fornication? It's any immoral act done with the body. We all know that premarital sex is fornication, but so is adultery, drug addiction, food addiction, homosexuality, yes, I dare say it, alcohol addiction, and idolatry. We can think and do a lot of sinful things, but acts of the flesh carry a heavy weight on us if we don't get a handle on them. “Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.” - 1 Corinthians 6:18.
My old church has a motto, “Come as you are, leave better.” The Christian life is not one of just knowing that you accepted Christ as your Saviour and are saved from hell, it's a life of progress. While our works do not get us to heaven and God for our salvation they do play a part in our lives after we are saved. Yes, all are welcome to come to church no matter what they have done, but as we allow Christ to live in and through us, He should become prominent in our lives. As Paul learned what was going on with the Corinthians he was disturbed by some of the incidents that he found, in his letter he addresses those who were not only condoning fornication in the church, but something rather incestuous. He reminds them that they are saved under the blood of Christ, and that is more cause to live a moral life, he literally tells them to kick the fornicators out of the church.
“Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.” - 1 Corinthians 5:7-13.
“that ye may be a new lump,” As we allow Christ to live in and through us, He purges out the old leaven, the sinful things we had no idea were sin until we knew Christ, and replaces them with godly things. Until we remove the bad lumps, including people that keep us in sin, we will suffer greatly. I've been there, twelve years ago I was living with a man, he had to go because he had no intentions of living his life for Christ. You want to know why the churches are a mess? It's because sinful behavior is condoned and even accepted in them. Like I said, we are work in progress, we are not perfect, but we are not to condone sinful behavior, especially in the church. Paul lists all the things that contribute to fornication, reminding them that they are justified by Christ.
“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body.” - 1 Corinthians 6:9-13.
“And such were some of you:” Effeminate is a man that acts like a woman, abusers of themselves with mankind is homosexuality, being covetous is lusting for what others have, these are all acts of fornication. When we accept Christ as our Saviour we are washed clean from all these things. Praise God! Anyone committing these acts, even if they are saved faces severe repercussions in doing so. “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.”- 1 Corinthians 6:19,20.
In reality, the world has no idea what they are naturally doing is sin, that is why it is important for the church to explain it right from the Word of God. Another act of fornication that Paul addresses is food, eating things that are offered by idols.“Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one. For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled.” - 1 Corinthians 8:1,4-7.
“and their conscience being weak is defiled.” Things offered to idols, one of the biggest ways to deceive people is by offering them food or other comforts. Think about it, I have seen several converts turn to false religion because they gave them food or money. We have to be careful where we get things from, and what we do when offered them. We were bought with a price, Christ gave His life for us so we don't have to end up burning in the lake of fire. We should be honored that Jesus Christ has chosen us to set an example and show others that while we were once dead in sin we are now risen from the dead and alive through Him. Our bodies have been redeemed by His atoning sacrifice, let's show Him our gratitude by being a vessel of honor, not dishonor. “If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.” - 2 Timothy 2:21.
Today's Prayer: God, Thank You for sending Your Son to save me, I am redeemed and saved from hell because I believe in His sinless death, burial, and resurrection, confessed that I am a sinner, and asked Him to save me. While I do not intentionally try to let You down, I know I will at times. Lord, feed me with the spiritual things I need to keep me healthy in mind, body, and spirit. Help me to avoid the lumps of the world that constantly trie to defile my relationship with You. Only by Your power can I resist temptation and see Your blessings unfold. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Division Among The Churches
King
James Bible Daily Devotion – Learning
Scripture One Day At A Time
Date: Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Chapters: 1 Corinthians 1-4
Message Title: Division Among The Churches
Hello My Friend,
The Book of 1 Corinthians is the forty-sixth book of the Bible, the seventh book of the New Testament, and contains sixteen chapters. The author of the book is Paul, and it was written to all believers, but directed to those in Corinth, he wrote it about 59AD. The purpose of the book was to address doctrinal problems that were brought to Paul's attention concerning a division between the Corinthian believers. What we are to learn from the book is that Jesus Christ, our risen Lord, indwells in every believer through the Holy Spirit. “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.” -1 Corinthians 2:12.
Division, The act of dividing or separating into parts any entire body. Did you know that the devil really doesn't care that we trust Christ as our Saviour? What he cares about is separating the body of Christ. You see, it's not the unbelievers that he has problem with, it's the believers, and he will do anything to keep them from showing Christ through them. Paul spent nearly two years in Corinth, preaching the Gospel with great success, it was there that one of the first Christian churches was formed, consisting both of Jews and Greeks. A conflict arose in Corinth, false doctrine was being taught in the church, this caused a great division among the members, instead of trusting God, they trusted the man of God. Paul stresses the importance of first preaching the same Gospel.
“God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.” - 1 Corinthians 1:9-11,18-21.
“by the foolishness of preaching” Do you know how many religions, even so called “Christian” religions claim to know Christ, but the Gospel is not even allowed to be spoken. I took care of two kids whose parents attended a Baptist church, they didn't even know what sin was. They rather teach about being kind and loving one another and that there is no such thing as sin than preach the truth. Sadly, thousands of people will die and end up in hell because they trusted the man and not God. Paul continues to tell them not to put their faith in the wisdom of man. “And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” - 1 Corinthians 2:1-5.
“faith should not stand in the wisdom of men,” The wisdom of men, that's an understatement. To the world preaching about a man that died almost two thousand years ago is foolishness, but it's only by this foolishness that we can be saved. I have to say it, there are some extremely intelligent men and women out there, but they are too stupid to see that they have a Creator, and that Creator is God. They rather believe that something exploded and slowly evolved into who they are today. I always say that even if that were true, someone had to create the something that exploded. Rather than argue with them, God gave them up to their own foolishness. “Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:” - Romans 1:22-24.
Many churches and homes have been destroyed because people put their faith and trust in a man or woman instead of Christ. There truly is only one Gospel and that is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, this is the only Gospel that is the foundation of all our hopes and joys of a future with God. While Paul wanted to speak to them through the word of God, He couldn't get deep into it because they were all babes, they weren't able to handle all the information at one time. Paul stresses the importance of building everything upon the foundation of Christ not the man or woman of God.
“And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. 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 3:1-3,9-11.
“For other foundation can no man lay” Those who build hopes of heaven on any other foundation will fall. We are going to get advice from preachers and teachers of God, they are our guides, not our sole source to God. If we truly want to see God bless us in this life, we need to get in His Word and learn it. God has so much to show and tell us as we grow, and even more to tell us in heaven. Praise God! Right now, you are where you need to be, the foundation has been laid and you are standing upon the rock of Christ. Brick by brick, God is building something great inside of you, no matter what You do, you will not fail with Christ, and even if you do, God will bless you through your faithfulness. Paul stress the importance of being accountable as Christians.
“Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.” - 1 Corinthians 4:1-5.
Today's Prayer: God, You know that it's not always easy being a Christian, sometimes it is so hard to do the right thing when we are constantly faced with temptations and people who find joy in seeing us fall. It is only by Your power that we are able to endure temptation and receive Your crown. Lord, give me Your power, help me to depend solely upon Your reasoning and not my own, help me to remain faithful to You as I walk through this journey that You have me on, and give me Your strength to endure all the conflicts that will arise in this life. I love You, Lord and ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.
Date: Wednesday, November 25, 2015
Chapters: 1 Corinthians 1-4
Message Title: Division Among The Churches
Hello My Friend,
The Book of 1 Corinthians is the forty-sixth book of the Bible, the seventh book of the New Testament, and contains sixteen chapters. The author of the book is Paul, and it was written to all believers, but directed to those in Corinth, he wrote it about 59AD. The purpose of the book was to address doctrinal problems that were brought to Paul's attention concerning a division between the Corinthian believers. What we are to learn from the book is that Jesus Christ, our risen Lord, indwells in every believer through the Holy Spirit. “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.” -1 Corinthians 2:12.
Division, The act of dividing or separating into parts any entire body. Did you know that the devil really doesn't care that we trust Christ as our Saviour? What he cares about is separating the body of Christ. You see, it's not the unbelievers that he has problem with, it's the believers, and he will do anything to keep them from showing Christ through them. Paul spent nearly two years in Corinth, preaching the Gospel with great success, it was there that one of the first Christian churches was formed, consisting both of Jews and Greeks. A conflict arose in Corinth, false doctrine was being taught in the church, this caused a great division among the members, instead of trusting God, they trusted the man of God. Paul stresses the importance of first preaching the same Gospel.
“God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.” - 1 Corinthians 1:9-11,18-21.
“by the foolishness of preaching” Do you know how many religions, even so called “Christian” religions claim to know Christ, but the Gospel is not even allowed to be spoken. I took care of two kids whose parents attended a Baptist church, they didn't even know what sin was. They rather teach about being kind and loving one another and that there is no such thing as sin than preach the truth. Sadly, thousands of people will die and end up in hell because they trusted the man and not God. Paul continues to tell them not to put their faith in the wisdom of man. “And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” - 1 Corinthians 2:1-5.
“faith should not stand in the wisdom of men,” The wisdom of men, that's an understatement. To the world preaching about a man that died almost two thousand years ago is foolishness, but it's only by this foolishness that we can be saved. I have to say it, there are some extremely intelligent men and women out there, but they are too stupid to see that they have a Creator, and that Creator is God. They rather believe that something exploded and slowly evolved into who they are today. I always say that even if that were true, someone had to create the something that exploded. Rather than argue with them, God gave them up to their own foolishness. “Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:” - Romans 1:22-24.
Many churches and homes have been destroyed because people put their faith and trust in a man or woman instead of Christ. There truly is only one Gospel and that is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, this is the only Gospel that is the foundation of all our hopes and joys of a future with God. While Paul wanted to speak to them through the word of God, He couldn't get deep into it because they were all babes, they weren't able to handle all the information at one time. Paul stresses the importance of building everything upon the foundation of Christ not the man or woman of God.
“And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. 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 3:1-3,9-11.
“For other foundation can no man lay” Those who build hopes of heaven on any other foundation will fall. We are going to get advice from preachers and teachers of God, they are our guides, not our sole source to God. If we truly want to see God bless us in this life, we need to get in His Word and learn it. God has so much to show and tell us as we grow, and even more to tell us in heaven. Praise God! Right now, you are where you need to be, the foundation has been laid and you are standing upon the rock of Christ. Brick by brick, God is building something great inside of you, no matter what You do, you will not fail with Christ, and even if you do, God will bless you through your faithfulness. Paul stress the importance of being accountable as Christians.
“Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yea, I judge not mine own self. For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.” - 1 Corinthians 4:1-5.
Today's Prayer: God, You know that it's not always easy being a Christian, sometimes it is so hard to do the right thing when we are constantly faced with temptations and people who find joy in seeing us fall. It is only by Your power that we are able to endure temptation and receive Your crown. Lord, give me Your power, help me to depend solely upon Your reasoning and not my own, help me to remain faithful to You as I walk through this journey that You have me on, and give me Your strength to endure all the conflicts that will arise in this life. I love You, Lord and ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Strength In Faith
King
James Bible Daily Devotion – Learning
Scripture One Day At A Time
Date: Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Chapters: Romans 14-16
Message Title: Strength In Faith
Hello My Friend,
Christians, children of God. We are children of God by our faith in Jesus Christ, yet no matter how much we love and believe God there are times in every Christians life that their faith may not even be the size of a mustard seed. Life has a way of draining every bit of faith we have out of us, and that is when we need not only God, but to get around other likeminded Christians to help lift us up and see us up. Be careful who you get around, they may make things worse, also we who are stronger in faith must be careful how we respond to those in need. “Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.” - Romans 14:13,19.
“stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.” Stumblingblock, to obstruct in progress; to cause to trip or stop. Did you know that the things we do can hinder the progress that God makes with us? Sometimes that hindrance comes from ourselves, but usually it comes from people we get around. We don't intentionally walk into those who are obstructing God, but think about those who are around you. Are they encouraging you, godly, saved themselves? As Paul winds down his letter to the Romans he encourages the weak in faith to come for help, but warns against judging those who are weak.
“Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. 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. Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” - Romans 14:1,8-12,22,23.
“for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” Faith, it is the substance by which we need to stand if we want God to do anything for us. Faith is more than just believing, it's knowing that God will do what He says He will do. Let's face it, our faith in God goes up and down like a roller coaster, and sometimes those roller coasters are pretty steep. When our faith is on that downhill slide it's great to have encouragement by others to lift us back up. If the ones we are depending on are criticizing and judging everything you do, perhaps they are the stumblingblock that is keeping you from seeing God's blessing upon your life. “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” - Hebrews 11:6.
I knew this guy, actually dated him for a long time, he kept me strung because he knew my faith in Christ and actually used Him to get to me, claimed he got saved and baptized, and all that. Now, I am not going to question whether or not He got saved, it is God he has to face for that, but what he actually did was hinder me from God blessing me. I struggled for three years and didn't realize it was him until I took him completely out of my life. You see, while I thought I was the one encouraging him, he was actually encouraging me, and I can only imagine the mess I would be in if I had continued following him. Thankfully, by the mercy and grace of God, some strange things happened that not only opened my eyes, it let me be a strength of faith to someone else, even though I was weak. Paul encourages those who are stronger in faith to help those who are struggling.
“We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God. Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers: And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name. Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God,” - Romans 15:1,7-9,15.
“I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort,” You ever wonder why God seems to be harder on those who are faithful to Him? We know better. We are the examples, the promises of God. Someone asked if I believe in miracles, my response, “Yes, I am a miracle!” We are all miracles by the mercy and grace of God. If you knew me before I dedicated my life to Christ, you would have flipped. We are not perfect, we are all work in progress, we may even be our own stumblingblock, but we are miracles and God is going to be harder on us because we know better. If we are lacking faith, walking around with our heads to the ground, and being a pessimist we can expect some swats on the behind from God. “Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” - 1 Peter 4:16,17.
Speaking of a pessimist, which is someone who believes that the evil or hardships in life outweigh the good. There is this lady in church, sweet woman, but she always has something negative to say. My first thought was to stay away from her when I am feeling blue. Believe it or not, our faith in God is increased when we get around others who are optimistic and strong in their faith. There are just some people that God doesn't want us to get around, especially if we are weak in our faith. As Paul completes his letter, he thanks a lot of people who helped keep him going, and warns them to stay away from those who would cause problems.
“Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.” - Romans 16:17-20.
“by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” My friend, the one who charmed me with his good words, if I had continued my relationship with him would have caused me not to only be divided among my family, but God as well. God knew this mans intentions, that it was evil, but He took that evil and used it for good. Praise God! You see, lack of faith can actually make us stronger as we stop to think about all the things God has gotten us through over the years. We already have the victory, we have Christ, we can kick that old devil right in his behind as we live by faith and not our present circumstances. “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, Our faith in You truly does go up and down like a roller coaster, but deep down You know our hearts. As life's events drag us down and make us weak in our faith, You always have ways to get us back up, but sometimes we do things that can hinder You. Lord, lead us and guide us, give us Your power, Your mercy and grace, increase our faith and help us see past our circumstances and see Your Son right there beside us. Help us who are stronger in faith be a blessing to others, to help encourage them and be the light they need in their darkness. Keep us always looking to You, the author and finisher of our faith. In the name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
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Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.
Date: Tuesday, November 24, 2015
Chapters: Romans 14-16
Message Title: Strength In Faith
Hello My Friend,
Christians, children of God. We are children of God by our faith in Jesus Christ, yet no matter how much we love and believe God there are times in every Christians life that their faith may not even be the size of a mustard seed. Life has a way of draining every bit of faith we have out of us, and that is when we need not only God, but to get around other likeminded Christians to help lift us up and see us up. Be careful who you get around, they may make things worse, also we who are stronger in faith must be careful how we respond to those in need. “Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way. Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.” - Romans 14:13,19.
“stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.” Stumblingblock, to obstruct in progress; to cause to trip or stop. Did you know that the things we do can hinder the progress that God makes with us? Sometimes that hindrance comes from ourselves, but usually it comes from people we get around. We don't intentionally walk into those who are obstructing God, but think about those who are around you. Are they encouraging you, godly, saved themselves? As Paul winds down his letter to the Romans he encourages the weak in faith to come for help, but warns against judging those who are weak.
“Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. 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. Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth. And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” - Romans 14:1,8-12,22,23.
“for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” Faith, it is the substance by which we need to stand if we want God to do anything for us. Faith is more than just believing, it's knowing that God will do what He says He will do. Let's face it, our faith in God goes up and down like a roller coaster, and sometimes those roller coasters are pretty steep. When our faith is on that downhill slide it's great to have encouragement by others to lift us back up. If the ones we are depending on are criticizing and judging everything you do, perhaps they are the stumblingblock that is keeping you from seeing God's blessing upon your life. “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” - Hebrews 11:6.
I knew this guy, actually dated him for a long time, he kept me strung because he knew my faith in Christ and actually used Him to get to me, claimed he got saved and baptized, and all that. Now, I am not going to question whether or not He got saved, it is God he has to face for that, but what he actually did was hinder me from God blessing me. I struggled for three years and didn't realize it was him until I took him completely out of my life. You see, while I thought I was the one encouraging him, he was actually encouraging me, and I can only imagine the mess I would be in if I had continued following him. Thankfully, by the mercy and grace of God, some strange things happened that not only opened my eyes, it let me be a strength of faith to someone else, even though I was weak. Paul encourages those who are stronger in faith to help those who are struggling.
“We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God. Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers: And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name. Nevertheless, brethren, I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort, as putting you in mind, because of the grace that is given to me of God,” - Romans 15:1,7-9,15.
“I have written the more boldly unto you in some sort,” You ever wonder why God seems to be harder on those who are faithful to Him? We know better. We are the examples, the promises of God. Someone asked if I believe in miracles, my response, “Yes, I am a miracle!” We are all miracles by the mercy and grace of God. If you knew me before I dedicated my life to Christ, you would have flipped. We are not perfect, we are all work in progress, we may even be our own stumblingblock, but we are miracles and God is going to be harder on us because we know better. If we are lacking faith, walking around with our heads to the ground, and being a pessimist we can expect some swats on the behind from God. “Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” - 1 Peter 4:16,17.
Speaking of a pessimist, which is someone who believes that the evil or hardships in life outweigh the good. There is this lady in church, sweet woman, but she always has something negative to say. My first thought was to stay away from her when I am feeling blue. Believe it or not, our faith in God is increased when we get around others who are optimistic and strong in their faith. There are just some people that God doesn't want us to get around, especially if we are weak in our faith. As Paul completes his letter, he thanks a lot of people who helped keep him going, and warns them to stay away from those who would cause problems.
“Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple. For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you. Amen.” - Romans 16:17-20.
“by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.” My friend, the one who charmed me with his good words, if I had continued my relationship with him would have caused me not to only be divided among my family, but God as well. God knew this mans intentions, that it was evil, but He took that evil and used it for good. Praise God! You see, lack of faith can actually make us stronger as we stop to think about all the things God has gotten us through over the years. We already have the victory, we have Christ, we can kick that old devil right in his behind as we live by faith and not our present circumstances. “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, Our faith in You truly does go up and down like a roller coaster, but deep down You know our hearts. As life's events drag us down and make us weak in our faith, You always have ways to get us back up, but sometimes we do things that can hinder You. Lord, lead us and guide us, give us Your power, Your mercy and grace, increase our faith and help us see past our circumstances and see Your Son right there beside us. Help us who are stronger in faith be a blessing to others, to help encourage them and be the light they need in their darkness. Keep us always looking to You, the author and finisher of our faith. In the name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.
Monday, November 23, 2015
Up For The Challenge
King James Bible Daily Devotion –
Learning Scripture One
Day At A Time
Date: Monday, November 23, 2015
Chapters: Romans 11-13
Message Title: Up For The Challenge
Hello My Friend,
I was playing a rather challenging solitaire game, when I finally figured out the key to winning a game it occurred to me how many times I gave up on winning a hand because it was more challenging. That got me thinking how easily we as Christians give up on God. I don't mean walking away from Him, but seeing Him do amazing things in our lives because we're not willing to do more for Him when life is more challenging. We must understand that God is going to always give us challenges, they are what help us grow into the likeness of His Son, the key to winning them is, in fact, His Son. We get close to Him, He helps us win every challenge, and see some amazing things out of it. “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.” - 1 Peter 5:6,7.
“that he may exalt you” Believe it or not, God wants us to shine, He just wants to be the one we trust and obey when we do. God doesn't care where we came from, what we did in the past, or who we know, He cares about us as any father would any of their children. If you are born again, than you are a child of God, and that means you are equal with every other child of His. There was some strife going on in Rome, the Jews and Romans were arguing that they were the only people God saves. The Jews believed since they were God's chosen only they could be saved. The Romans believed since the Jews rejected Christ only they could. Paul had been already been addressing the Jews, now, it's the Romans turn (Gentiles).
“For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office: If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them. For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead? For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in. Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:” - Romans 11:13-20.
“because of unbelief they were broken off,” Grafted, to insert in a body to which it did not originally belong. When we receive Christ as our Saviour, we are grafted into the body of Christ, not by heritage, but by our belief in Him and accepting Him as our only way to salvation. People make the assumption that being Jewish is a religion, it really not, it's a family. When we receive Christ, we become part of God's family, therefore, we are Christians, a family of Christ. Emulation, the act of attempting to equal or excel in qualities or actions. There is absolutely no way we can ever excel in the qualities of Christ, but we can be equal, in fact, we are equal to Him because we belong to Him. Paul stresses the importance that we all must realize, we are part of the same body of Christ.
“For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.” - Romans 12:3-9.
“Let love be without dissimulation.” Dissimulation, a hiding under a false appearance. We are all part of the body of Christ, that means we are not better than anyone else. There is a reason why God has people of different diversities in His family, they bring more people into the family. We are to love all our brothers and sisters in Christ the same way. You know, it is a good thing Christ's love for us is not determined by how we treat Him or others. For the life of me I will never understand how a person can turn their love on and off like a light switch, but we don't have to worry about that with Jesus, He never stops loving us, He just wants us to love as He does. “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” - John 13:34,35.
When we allow Christ to live in a dwell in us, He literally transforms us into His image, giving others a chance to see Him for who He is, and possibly get saved as well. When we transform to Christ, we do and see things differently, we no longer want things that please the flesh, but God. Those who are saved, that never see a difference in their lives are not allowing Christ in their lives. Paul addresses the importance of all Christians living in subject to God. “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.” - Romans 13:1-5.
“but also for conscience sake.” God doesn't want us obeying His rules because it's something we are forced or obligated to do, which we are not, He wants us to do it because it's the right thing to do. Living as a Christian is sometimes the biggest challenge we face. It means we are going to have to deal with some ungodly people in our lives. Our relationship with them can't alter our relationship with God, no matter who that person is. Over the years I have come to realize that people who encourage you to live in sin don't care about you, all they care about is themselves, and while you live with the guilt, shame, and distress, they have already forgotten about you. Don't walk away from your challenge, embrace it, and let Jesus lead you to victory. “But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” - 1 Corinthians 15:57,58.
Today's Prayer: God, Your love for us is astounding, no one can love us as much as You. No matter how many times I mess up You never leave nor forsake me. Lord, forgive me for the challenges I have given up on because I tried to handle them on my own. I know that Your love and power is strong enough to help me endure and break free from every evil that is trying to defeat me. Continue to grow me and teach me to love others as You love me, even those who have treated me badly. Also help me to let go of my pride and humble myself to You so I can see a great victory. In Jesus' name. Amen.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.
Date: Monday, November 23, 2015
Chapters: Romans 11-13
Message Title: Up For The Challenge
Hello My Friend,
I was playing a rather challenging solitaire game, when I finally figured out the key to winning a game it occurred to me how many times I gave up on winning a hand because it was more challenging. That got me thinking how easily we as Christians give up on God. I don't mean walking away from Him, but seeing Him do amazing things in our lives because we're not willing to do more for Him when life is more challenging. We must understand that God is going to always give us challenges, they are what help us grow into the likeness of His Son, the key to winning them is, in fact, His Son. We get close to Him, He helps us win every challenge, and see some amazing things out of it. “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.” - 1 Peter 5:6,7.
“that he may exalt you” Believe it or not, God wants us to shine, He just wants to be the one we trust and obey when we do. God doesn't care where we came from, what we did in the past, or who we know, He cares about us as any father would any of their children. If you are born again, than you are a child of God, and that means you are equal with every other child of His. There was some strife going on in Rome, the Jews and Romans were arguing that they were the only people God saves. The Jews believed since they were God's chosen only they could be saved. The Romans believed since the Jews rejected Christ only they could. Paul had been already been addressing the Jews, now, it's the Romans turn (Gentiles).
“For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify mine office: If by any means I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh, and might save some of them. For if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be, but life from the dead? For if the firstfruit be holy, the lump is also holy: and if the root be holy, so are the branches. And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in among them, and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree; Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee. Thou wilt say then, The branches were broken off, that I might be graffed in. Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but fear:” - Romans 11:13-20.
“because of unbelief they were broken off,” Grafted, to insert in a body to which it did not originally belong. When we receive Christ as our Saviour, we are grafted into the body of Christ, not by heritage, but by our belief in Him and accepting Him as our only way to salvation. People make the assumption that being Jewish is a religion, it really not, it's a family. When we receive Christ, we become part of God's family, therefore, we are Christians, a family of Christ. Emulation, the act of attempting to equal or excel in qualities or actions. There is absolutely no way we can ever excel in the qualities of Christ, but we can be equal, in fact, we are equal to Him because we belong to Him. Paul stresses the importance that we all must realize, we are part of the same body of Christ.
“For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness. Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.” - Romans 12:3-9.
“Let love be without dissimulation.” Dissimulation, a hiding under a false appearance. We are all part of the body of Christ, that means we are not better than anyone else. There is a reason why God has people of different diversities in His family, they bring more people into the family. We are to love all our brothers and sisters in Christ the same way. You know, it is a good thing Christ's love for us is not determined by how we treat Him or others. For the life of me I will never understand how a person can turn their love on and off like a light switch, but we don't have to worry about that with Jesus, He never stops loving us, He just wants us to love as He does. “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.” - John 13:34,35.
When we allow Christ to live in a dwell in us, He literally transforms us into His image, giving others a chance to see Him for who He is, and possibly get saved as well. When we transform to Christ, we do and see things differently, we no longer want things that please the flesh, but God. Those who are saved, that never see a difference in their lives are not allowing Christ in their lives. Paul addresses the importance of all Christians living in subject to God. “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.” - Romans 13:1-5.
“but also for conscience sake.” God doesn't want us obeying His rules because it's something we are forced or obligated to do, which we are not, He wants us to do it because it's the right thing to do. Living as a Christian is sometimes the biggest challenge we face. It means we are going to have to deal with some ungodly people in our lives. Our relationship with them can't alter our relationship with God, no matter who that person is. Over the years I have come to realize that people who encourage you to live in sin don't care about you, all they care about is themselves, and while you live with the guilt, shame, and distress, they have already forgotten about you. Don't walk away from your challenge, embrace it, and let Jesus lead you to victory. “But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” - 1 Corinthians 15:57,58.
Today's Prayer: God, Your love for us is astounding, no one can love us as much as You. No matter how many times I mess up You never leave nor forsake me. Lord, forgive me for the challenges I have given up on because I tried to handle them on my own. I know that Your love and power is strong enough to help me endure and break free from every evil that is trying to defeat me. Continue to grow me and teach me to love others as You love me, even those who have treated me badly. Also help me to let go of my pride and humble myself to You so I can see a great victory. In Jesus' name. Amen.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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Sunday, November 22, 2015
Reborn Into The Family Of God
King
James Bible Daily Devotion – Learning
Scripture One Day At A Time
Date: Sunday, November 22, 2015
Chapters: Romans 8-10
Message Title: Reborn Into The Family Of God
Hello My Friend,
Child, One who is the product of another; or whose principles and morals are the product of another. A child is one of the most precious miracles of God. Biologically we understand that we are the product of one man and one woman, but biology has nothing to do with being a parent. Many people have babies, and quite frankly, you wonder why God allows some to have them, thankfully God came up with adoption way before man ever thought of it. People say this all the time, and even I have before I knew the truth, “That we are all children of God.” The truth is, we are all a creation of God, He only has one begotten child, that is Jesus Christ, in order to be a child of God we need to be adopted into the family. That adoption takes place when we receive Christ as our Saviour. It's all about Jesus and Him alone, if you don't know Jesus, you are not a child of God, but anyone can become one if they choose. “According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,” - Ephesians 1:4,5.
“the good pleasure of his will,” It's all about God's will, and amazingly, He even gives us a choice on whether or not we want to be one of His children. First, we must understand why we are not automatically born into God's family. The spirit (breath) is the inner being by which we have life, without breath in of us we are dead. Now, this is true for the body and soul. When we are physically born we have flesh and a soul, our breath keeps us alive physically, but our soul is dead. If we were to die with a dead soul we would be cast into hell because we need the Spirit of God in us to save us. It is only when we receive Christ as our Saviour that the Spirit of God enters our soul, and this is where the term born again comes from, and we are reborn with the Spirit of God in us. Paul explains how we were once dead in sin.
“For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.” - Romans 8:2,3,6-11.
“the body is dead because of sin;” God took His Spirit away from man the second Adam and Eve committed the first sin, He warned them that if they disobeyed that one command that they would die instantly, this of course, was a spiritual death, and it was passed down to us. Think about it, saved or not, living in sin literally kills the body, those who are living a sinful lifestyle are going to learn that it will be the death of them if they don't get a handle on it. Once we receive Christ, He Spirit enters us, removing the curse, and while the physical body will die the soul will remain alive through Christ. “If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.” - 1 John 5:16.
Paul had one desire in life after he got saved and dedicated his life to Christ, preach the Gospel to all and see them receive Christ, whether they were Jew or Gentile. His dilemma, he was a Jew, perhaps he thought that his miraculous conversion would convince them to be converted as well, but soon discovered that it was not going to happen. Many of his fellow Jewish brothers and sisters would not only reject Christ, but bring persecution upon him as well. Why? The believed they were chosen as children of God by God Himself. Jews, since they were chosen by God to represent Him, have the false assumption that they are children of God from birth, therefore, saved from hell. Paul explains exactly how we become a child of God, regardless of who our descendant are.
“For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh: Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen. Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.” - Romans 9:3-8.
“For they are not all Israel,” The children of Israel were the seed that God promised Abraham through his son Isaac, and of which Jesus would descend in the flesh. Many people throughout history were born into the family of Abraham that were not of Israel, which is why not all of them are biologically born as one of Abraham's descendants. Except for Jesus, they were not children of God automatically, they were children of the flesh of Isaac, Jacob to be exact. Until we receive Christ we are children of the flesh, once we receive Him we spiritually become children of God. How? Our faith. “Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” - 1 John 5:1-4.
Many sincere people, who truly believe in God, serve Him every day in hopes that they will get to heaven one day. However, the only way to God is not by what we do for Him, it's by who we know. God's promise to all who believe in and receive His Son is that they become heirs with Him. Paul explains exactly how we become children of God through Christ.
“Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 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. But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” - Romans 10:1-4,10-12,16,17.
“have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.” We can't by our own righteousness get to God because we are just physically incapable of doing enough good to measure up to His righteousness. That's why we have to admit we are sinners before we are even considered by God to be one of His children. It's not enough to believe in God, we must also believe in His Son, He is the only way to become righteous and measure up to Him. God's promise to all who believe in and receive His Son, they not only are saved from hell, they become His very own children. “He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” - 1 John 5:10-12.
I must stress the importance of understanding that this pertains to those of accountable age, babies and toddlers are not subject to this as they do not know what sin is. Once we are aware of sin, and yes, we know very early in life that we are sinners. That's the biggest step of all, admitting we are sinners, but if we humble ourselves and admit we have done wrong in our lifetime than we can be saved. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” - Romans 10:9.
Today's Prayer: God, I truly think that we all have hope in the glorious day that we get so see You in heaven, but some of us have been taught the wrong message or aren't quite sure what salvation is. Lord, open every heart, give those who aren't quite sure of their salvation understanding of just what that is, and give those who sincerely have a zeal for You the knowledge they need to receive Your Son as their Savior. As we serve You insure us that we are doing this because we love You, not because we are required to, and Lord, thank You for Your mercy and grace to save a sinner like me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
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Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.
Date: Sunday, November 22, 2015
Chapters: Romans 8-10
Message Title: Reborn Into The Family Of God
Hello My Friend,
Child, One who is the product of another; or whose principles and morals are the product of another. A child is one of the most precious miracles of God. Biologically we understand that we are the product of one man and one woman, but biology has nothing to do with being a parent. Many people have babies, and quite frankly, you wonder why God allows some to have them, thankfully God came up with adoption way before man ever thought of it. People say this all the time, and even I have before I knew the truth, “That we are all children of God.” The truth is, we are all a creation of God, He only has one begotten child, that is Jesus Christ, in order to be a child of God we need to be adopted into the family. That adoption takes place when we receive Christ as our Saviour. It's all about Jesus and Him alone, if you don't know Jesus, you are not a child of God, but anyone can become one if they choose. “According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,” - Ephesians 1:4,5.
“the good pleasure of his will,” It's all about God's will, and amazingly, He even gives us a choice on whether or not we want to be one of His children. First, we must understand why we are not automatically born into God's family. The spirit (breath) is the inner being by which we have life, without breath in of us we are dead. Now, this is true for the body and soul. When we are physically born we have flesh and a soul, our breath keeps us alive physically, but our soul is dead. If we were to die with a dead soul we would be cast into hell because we need the Spirit of God in us to save us. It is only when we receive Christ as our Saviour that the Spirit of God enters our soul, and this is where the term born again comes from, and we are reborn with the Spirit of God in us. Paul explains how we were once dead in sin.
“For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.” - Romans 8:2,3,6-11.
“the body is dead because of sin;” God took His Spirit away from man the second Adam and Eve committed the first sin, He warned them that if they disobeyed that one command that they would die instantly, this of course, was a spiritual death, and it was passed down to us. Think about it, saved or not, living in sin literally kills the body, those who are living a sinful lifestyle are going to learn that it will be the death of them if they don't get a handle on it. Once we receive Christ, He Spirit enters us, removing the curse, and while the physical body will die the soul will remain alive through Christ. “If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.” - 1 John 5:16.
Paul had one desire in life after he got saved and dedicated his life to Christ, preach the Gospel to all and see them receive Christ, whether they were Jew or Gentile. His dilemma, he was a Jew, perhaps he thought that his miraculous conversion would convince them to be converted as well, but soon discovered that it was not going to happen. Many of his fellow Jewish brothers and sisters would not only reject Christ, but bring persecution upon him as well. Why? The believed they were chosen as children of God by God Himself. Jews, since they were chosen by God to represent Him, have the false assumption that they are children of God from birth, therefore, saved from hell. Paul explains exactly how we become a child of God, regardless of who our descendant are.
“For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh: Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen. Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed.” - Romans 9:3-8.
“For they are not all Israel,” The children of Israel were the seed that God promised Abraham through his son Isaac, and of which Jesus would descend in the flesh. Many people throughout history were born into the family of Abraham that were not of Israel, which is why not all of them are biologically born as one of Abraham's descendants. Except for Jesus, they were not children of God automatically, they were children of the flesh of Isaac, Jacob to be exact. Until we receive Christ we are children of the flesh, once we receive Him we spiritually become children of God. How? Our faith. “Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him that begat loveth him also that is begotten of him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” - 1 John 5:1-4.
Many sincere people, who truly believe in God, serve Him every day in hopes that they will get to heaven one day. However, the only way to God is not by what we do for Him, it's by who we know. God's promise to all who believe in and receive His Son is that they become heirs with Him. Paul explains exactly how we become children of God through Christ.
“Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 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. But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” - Romans 10:1-4,10-12,16,17.
“have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.” We can't by our own righteousness get to God because we are just physically incapable of doing enough good to measure up to His righteousness. That's why we have to admit we are sinners before we are even considered by God to be one of His children. It's not enough to believe in God, we must also believe in His Son, He is the only way to become righteous and measure up to Him. God's promise to all who believe in and receive His Son, they not only are saved from hell, they become His very own children. “He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son. And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” - 1 John 5:10-12.
I must stress the importance of understanding that this pertains to those of accountable age, babies and toddlers are not subject to this as they do not know what sin is. Once we are aware of sin, and yes, we know very early in life that we are sinners. That's the biggest step of all, admitting we are sinners, but if we humble ourselves and admit we have done wrong in our lifetime than we can be saved. “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” - Romans 10:9.
Today's Prayer: God, I truly think that we all have hope in the glorious day that we get so see You in heaven, but some of us have been taught the wrong message or aren't quite sure what salvation is. Lord, open every heart, give those who aren't quite sure of their salvation understanding of just what that is, and give those who sincerely have a zeal for You the knowledge they need to receive Your Son as their Savior. As we serve You insure us that we are doing this because we love You, not because we are required to, and Lord, thank You for Your mercy and grace to save a sinner like me. In Jesus' name. Amen.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Receive KJB Daily Devotions In Your Email: http://eepurl.com/2WMzT
Do You Know For Sure You Are Going To Heaven?: http://godsprice.com/
Visit I'm Following Jesus: http://imfollowingjesus.com/index.html
Like I'm Following Jesus On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/byhisstrength
Copyright © 2015 I'm Following Jesus, All rights reserved.
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