Beyond Human Nature

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Saturday, December 12, 2015
Chapters: Books of Titus & Philemon
Message Title: Beyond Human Nature

Hello My Friend,

The books of Titus and Philemon are the seventeenth and eighteenth books of the New Testament, and the fifty-sixth and fifty-seventh books of the Bible. The author of these epistles is Paul, Titus was written around 63 AD. What we are to learn from the book is that working in the ministry must be established and organized according to the principles of the word of God. “Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;” - Titus 2:12. Philemon was written around 64 AD. What we are to learn from it is, Christian principles must be applied to social and personal relationships in and out of the church. “That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.” - Philemon 1:6.

You don't have to know Christ to know that some things are just wrong. For instance, human nature teaches us that having sexual relations with others when in a committed relationship is wrong. Now to those who know Christ, not only is adultery wrong, but any sexual relations outside of marriage is also, it is by choice that we choose to do what is right. You see, human nature teaches morals, but it is Jesus Christ and walking with Him that teaches us what God sees as right. As Christians, we are to be growing in Christ daily so that we can be more than just a saved soul, but a witness that reveals Christ in us. Titus was a Greek convert that Paul used to correct some problems within the churches in Crete, it seems that the church leader was not living as he was preaching. Paul teaches Titus how to spot a true Christian, and warns him about deceivers within the church.

“For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.” - Titus 1:10-16.

“for filthy lucre's sake.” This is money gained by deceiving people, or bribes. Do you know how many men and women use Christ's name to get rich, they parade on unsaved, lost people trying to do the right thing? Sadly, they are sending thousands of people to hell with their vain talking. Human nature teaches us that deceiving people is wrong, Jesus teaches us that we are not to believe every spirit, and to remain pure, sober, and under His grace. Paul stresses to Titus the importance of not only knowing the word of God, but living it. “Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;” - Titus 2:9-13.

“Looking for that blessed hope,” Do you know why the majority of people who know of Christ don't follow Him? They have no hope in Him. They don't see a reason to when “Christians” are living worldlier lives than they are. The majority of these people are not Christians at all, and are making a mockery of what Christianity is all about. This is why it's so important that we who do love and follow Christ, live a godly life, proving that a life truly can be changed and blessed when Christ is Lord in it. It's not about following commands, it's about having respect for what Jesus did for you and honoring Him with that respect. Human nature teaches us that we are not perfect, but Jesus teaches us that we are perfect in Him.

“Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.” - Titus 3:1-7.

“That being justified by his grace,” Grace, not getting the punishment we deserve. It is by the grace of God that we are not punished for all the things we have done in our human nature. But grace is more than that, it's the favor of God, His commitment to us for believing in His Son, and accepting Him, His assurance of eternal life, and His promise to be there for us through the good and bad times. Philemon lived in Colosse, and was sent to seek a runaway slave named Onesimus, who actually penned down this letter for Paul. When Paul wrote to Philemon, he was in a Roman prison, however, he knew who really had control of his life, therefore, he identifies himself as a prisoner of Christ.

“Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother. Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient, Yet for love's sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ. I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me:” - Philemon 1:5-11.

“and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.” Paul didn't mean that he was made a prisoner by Christ, he meant that he was a prisoner for the sake of the Gospel of Christ. He was in prison on the account of professing Him, and preaching in His name, not any crime against him. When we choose to live our lives for Christ we are going to get persecuted, look at how many people this year ended up in jail or court because they stood for Christ, but nothing we go through with Christ is unprofitable, it all comes with eternal rewards. “In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 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 15:52-54,58. Praise God!

Today's Prayer: God, I do want to live a life that is pleasing to You, help me to learn Your will, and to get around other godly people who know and live by Your truths, and let me not stop teaching Your truths to others. Let us not be deceived by Christians, and keep us grounded in Your Word so we can be the godly examples You need us to be to reach the lost. In Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Be A Godly Leader

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Friday, December 11, 2015
Chapters: Book of 2 Timothy
Message Title: Be A Godly Leader

Hello My Friend,

The Book of 2 Timothy is the sixteenth book of the New Testament, the fifty-fifth book of the Bible, and contains four chapters. The author of this epistle is Paul and it was written to Timothy approximately 64AD, which he wrote from prison fearing he would soon be executed. The purpose of the letter was to encourage Timothy to assume the responsibility of the ministry which the apostle was handing over to him. What we are to learn from the book is that each person who lives for Christ will suffer persecution, but Christ gives them the power to endure and be a witness to others. “Therefore I endure all things for the elect's sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.” - 2 Timothy 2:10.

Did you ever wonder why once godly, prosperous nations fall into wicked, corrupt, and desolate ones? Simple, they don't know God. In order for a nation to know God they need godly leaders, when those leaders have not trained the next generation die, in a sense God dies along with them because He's not prominent in that nation anymore. As Christians, the most important reason for us to be godly leaders is to keep Christ alive into the next generation. Yes, things are going to get worse, each year there will be less and less people believing in Christ until there is none and He returns, and the way it looks it's going to happen rather quickly. Until then we need to step up and be those godly leaders today. Paul wrote this letter to Timothy, about a year after order had been brought to the church at Ephesus while sitting in a Roman prison. He knew his time was coming to an end, he praises Timothy for being a godly leader, then encourages him not to fear what's happening to him.

“I thank God, whom I serve from my forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day; Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy; When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also. Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;” - 2 Timothy 1:3-8.

“which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.” In a world full of wickedness and persecution toward Christians, we can't live in fear, we must stand strong in faith and truth and be the godly leaders that God needs us to be for the next generation. Do you now why God allows so many women to lead in His ministry (not in the church, but in the world)? There are not enough men willing to be that living sacrifice Christ needs to take the lead. God uses willing souls, those who are not afraid to stand by their faith and His truths, if there is one thing all women have in common is that they never give up, when they are determined, they make things happen. Now, it's time for men to step up, stop living in fear and be the soldiers Christ needs you to be. You are not called by Christ to surrender, but to fight, which is what Paul tells Timothy and all faithful Christians.

“Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier. It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.” - 2 Timothy 2:1-4,11-13.

“who shall be able to teach others also.” While Christ can make anything happen and certainly does not need us to keep Him alive in the world, He entrusts us with His Gospel to teach it to the next generation. It's not going to get easy, in fact, things are going to get much worse for Christians, but we need not live in fear because the living Christ lives in every one of us who have accepted Him as their Saviour. In case you haven't noticed the Islamics are taking over, it's only a matter of time before false Christian religions join forces with them out of fear as part of the one world religion order that will bring Christ to His throne. Many will be deceived, and that's why we who know the living and true Christ need to be ready to fight as His soldiers. Paul encourages Timothy to remain faithful in what He has been taught, warning him of what is to come as it draws closer for Christ to return.

“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;” - 2 Timothy 3:1-5,12-14.

“that in the last days perilous times shall come.” You know, when Paul wrote all these letters to the churches he swore that Christ would be returning rather quickly. Now, if things were pretty bad then for him to think this, and every generation does this, so, can you imagine what it is like now? We are definitely in perilous times, which means we who are saved need to step up and be the leaders Christ needs us to be to lead as many to Him as we can before it's too late. Once Christ gets here, we will be raptured out of here, and only unbelievers will be left on the earth. “For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” - 1 Thessalonians 4:16,17.

I know it seems unfair that we who are faithful have to bare such a burden, but we can't live in fear anymore, and we can't let people bully us into being silent. If we don't speak up now, our next generation will be lost and they will be stuck on their own, doing what's right in their own eyes, and will not know Christ. Listen Christians, do you know how many churches gather together, worshiping God, but do not know Christ? Thousands. We who know the truth, but live it and preach it, because we are all they have to hear the truth. As Paul closes his letter to Timothy, he tells him the real importance of remaining a godly leader.

“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” - 2 Timothy 4:1-8.

“who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;” The quick are those who are alive when Christ returns, the dead are those who died. There will be two judgments, the first is upon the unbelievers, they will receive their judgment and be cast into the lake of fire. The second is upon believers, they will be judged by what they did after they are saved, no, we will not be cast into the lake of fire if we lived wickedly, but we will lose rewards and blessings in the Kingdom. Praise God that His mercy and grace gives us today to make a change in our lives. When people try to judge and condemn others for not living lives I like to point out Samson, he was to be a godly leader, and far from it, but the day of his death he was redeemed as he pulled down the temple and thousands of Baal worshipers died. It's not what we have done in our past that determines our future, it's what we do now, but make no mistake, Christ will judge all. “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. I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.” - John 5:28-30.

Today's Prayer: God, We do not have to be a Christian to know that something is seriously going wrong in the world. Not only are we subject to the constant immorality and false religion, we are being forced to forsake You or face the consequences. I for one, am tired of people telling me not to talk about You or to bow down to their god, I want to be free to worship You, and live the way You want me to live. I know I am going to face persecution for choosing You, but I rather be hurt doing right than wrong any day. I never want be in a position where I have to compromise my faith, or go against my morals ever again, so, please God, put Your hedge of protection around be, and give me Your power and strength to be the godly leader You need me to be. I ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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True Authority Of The Church

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Thursday, December 10, 2015
Chapters: The Book of 1 Timothy
Message Title: True Authority Of The Church

Hello My Friend,

The Book of 1 Timothy is the fifteenth book of the New Testament, the fifth-fourth book of the Bible and contains six chapters. The author of this epistle is Paul and it was written to Timothy, his adopted son in faith, it was written approximately 63AD. The purpose of the letter was to address some of the problems and needs which existed in the church. What we are to learn from the book is that not every church is a genuine church of Christ and we should live our lives as an example as a true believer of Christ. “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” - 1 Timothy 4:12.

You may not realize this, but churches have bylaws to follow and if you want to join the church you must agree to the bylaws. While everyone ought be welcome to come to church and grow in Christ, every member ought to be likeminded, and likewise every church ought be under the same authority, which is the word of God. Timothy was a young pastor given the difficult task of pasturing the church at Ephesus. Word got to Paul that some of the pastors, deacons, and women of the church were doing some questionable things, he wrote Timothy on how he can identify true men and women of God, what their role is in the church, and why there were laws made.

“As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine, Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do. Now the end of the commandment is charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned: From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling; Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm. But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully; Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;” - 1 Timothy 1:3-10.

“that the law is not made for a righteous man,” While some laws seem silly, they really aren't. Think about this, how many laws are given that seem like common sense to us, but someone actually did it? One of the bylaws at my church is that you agree that marriage is to be between one man and one woman. Now, to those of us who know that marriage is between one man and one woman we think this law to be silly, but to the world, and even worldly Christians, it is an offense. Why such a law? Our courts have recently forced a law in our government that says anyone can marry, this has opened doors to incest, polygamy, as well as homosexual marriage, and all these things go against the morals of God. It is important that the church teach the right doctrine and set the right example for Christians to follow, whether a preacher, teacher, or janitor we are representing Christ and need to always present ourselves as such.

“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.” - 1 Timothy 2:1-4,9-12.

“But I suffer not a woman to teach,” Do you know how many people throw this verse around when they hear a woman teaching the Bible, especially men under their own convictions? As a woman who is a missionary and does it all on her own, I can attest that women should not be in authority over a church. Women are natural born teachers, they have a big influence on everyone around them, if they are not living godly lives then they will bring others down with them. Here is the truth, women are allowed to be teachers of the Bible, but not allowed to be head of a church nor argue with a man of God over what he teaches (that is where being silent in the church comes). Women are to be modest, godly examples to all, but not too be head of a church. Why? This goes all the way back to when Eve was first deceived by the devil and enticed Adam to sin. We are the example. “Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.” - Proverbs 31:30.

Now, we have to be careful about those laws of the church, some are not of God, but of man, and I suggest if you want to join a church you ask for a copy of the bylaws to see if it matches up with the word of God. As Paul continues instructing Timothy, he cautions him on allowing these strict laws and also mixing of faiths. “Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” - 1 Timothy 4:1-6,16.

“giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;” Did you ever hear of a Christian Wiccan? Yes, there are people who say they are saved that practice witchcraft. Catholics forbid anyone serving in their church to be married, and yet allow gay priests (go figure). Muslims teach they must kill anyone who is not a believer, yet claim peace. These are all doctrines of the devil that have nothing to do with God, yet use Him as the decoy to bring them into their cults. We need to pay attention to what is being taught in our churches, and get our of there if it doesn't use the word of God as their authority. “I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure. Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities. Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some men they follow after. Likewise also the good works of some are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise cannot be hid.” - 1 Timothy 5:21-25.

“Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake” God doesn't want us just drinking water to keep us filled, He wants us filled with the wine of Christ, it's the only way we learn to live under the authority of the Bible and become effective ministers. Regardless of whether we are a man or woman or work in the ministry, we are not perfect, we have this flesh, we are going to mess up, the great thing is that we can learn from our mistakes. God doesn't want perfect people (we are made perfect through His Son), He wants willing souls who believe in His Son to get lout there and teach His truths to a lost and dying world. And by the way, it's Christ we will answer to if we are teaching something else.

“If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.” - 1 Timothy 6:3-8,12.

Today's Prayer: God, It is still amazing to get up every morning knowing that it is no longer I who lives, but Christ who lives in me. He has turned my life completely around as I learn the truth from Your Word and live in obedience to it. Lord, I know I am going to mess up, but I am trusting You to lead me and guide me in whatever will that You have for me. Show me the way, help me understand, and never let me cease from developing that personal relationship with Christ that shows me I can do all things through Him. I ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Comfort Through Tribulation

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Wednesday, December 09, 2015
Chapters: The Book of 2 Thessalonians
Message Title: Comfort Through Tribulation

Hello My Friend,

The Book of 2 Thessalonians is the fourteenth book of the New Testament, fifty-third book of the Bible and contains three chapters. The author of this epistle is Paul and it was written to the church at Thessalonica, this was the second letter written to them by Paul shortly after the first to correct some confusion going around regarding the first. The time he wrote the letter was approximately 54AD. The purpose of the letter was to instruct believers awaiting for the return of Jesus and to encourage them to seek Him through all tribulation. What we are to learn from the book is that it is important to understand that tribulation will come, but it's all for obtaining the glory of Christ. “Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.” - 2 Thessalonians 2:14.

Tribulation, suffering wrongful persecution. It's God's grace that keeps us from getting what we deserve when we sin. I mean, when we truly stop to think about all the things we have done over the years and how God protected us, yes, even some stupid mistakes, we can truly see the grace of God. But when we suffer just for doing what's right it can be down right discouraging and heartbreaking. This is what the church at Thessalonica was facing. Paul reminds them that tribulation strengthens our relationship with God and brings persecution to our enemy.

“Seeing it is a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you; And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day. Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power: That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” - 2 Thessalonians 1:6-12.

“That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you,” The reason behind all the tribulation, Christ wants to be glorified in you, but not only that, He wants to glorify you by being faithful to Him through all of it. Do you remember when Jesus waited until Lazarus died before He went to see him? He not only healed him, He rose him from the dead. That was for one reason, and one reason only, to show that even death can't separate a soul from their Saviour. And for those who cause a problem, we need not to worry about them, because they will have their own tribulation to face, and when they least expect it. “Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” - Romans 12:19-21.

I have been struggling with something this year, something I swore was from God, I even praised Him for months answering prayer and how He did it, I still do because part of me believes that God's hands started it, and the devil is behind all the problems. Now, here I am dealing with this situation and wondering what happened. The culprit behind all our tribulation is not God, it's the devil, and the sooner we realize that, the better we will be able to handle the situation with God. Now, there had been some strife going on with the Thessalonians about the return of Jesus, Paul encourages them not to give up hope and reminds them and all of us where the devil and his followers are going.

“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” - 2 Thessalonians 2:3,4,8-12.

“whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth,” The devil has his followers just like Jesus does, and they too will go right where the he is going, into the lake of fire. While God would have none perish, He simply will not waste His time on those who not only reject Him, but pretend they are Him in order to deceive His own people. Do you know how many people claim they know Christ? Jesus knows who are His, and He will cast every person out of His Kingdom that has caused His own people to fall. “Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” - Matthew 7:21-23.

Many times people suffer because they get around someone who has no intention of following Christ. We all like to think that there is good in everyone, and that anyone can change, but we simply can't afford to stick around those who cause tribulation in the first place. Paul encourages the Thessalonians to remain faithful to God and He will bring something good out of their tribulation, but also stresses the importance of removing those who are the cause of tribulation from our lives.

“But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil. And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which we command you. And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ. Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us. For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.” - 2 Thessalonians 3:3-6,10-13.

“But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep you from evil.” We hate to admit, and by no means do we deserve to be hurt by those we trusted, but we could have avoided some of the things that happened to us if we just stayed away from them. While nothing is impossible with God, sometimes we must let in order for them to find Christ themselves, hopefully they will, but if not, at least you can save yourself from suffering even more. We can't control what others do, and while we may love them, we must have the courage to instill tough love otherwise we are the ones who will be falling, and deeper than they ever will. Give it over to God, pray for them, and let Him take care of the situation, if they are meant to be in your life God will make a way. “Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” - Matthew 5:43-45.

Today's Prayer: God, I admit that I am not thrilled at the tribulation I am going through, it seems as though the second I get over one problem another arises. I will not always understand this, but I do understand You are with me, growing me, and strengthening my faith and trust in You through every trial, every tear, and every fear. Thank You for everything You do for me, I know nothing I go through is in vain and has a purpose. Lead me and guide me, give me the strength only You can give me to stand firm in my faith, and not be drawn away from You by anything the devil or anyone else can tempt me with. I love You Lord and pray in Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Be Preserved Blameless

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Tuesday, December 08, 2015
Chapters: The Book of 1 Thessalonians
Message Title: Be Preserved Blameless

Hello My Friend,

The Book of 1 Thessalonians is the thirteenth book of the New Testament, fifty-second book of the Bible, and contains five chapters. The author of this epistle is Paul and it was addressed to all believers, but first to those of Thessalonica. The time he wrote the letter is approximately 54AD. The purpose of the letter was to assure the people that Christ is returning and to correct any false teaching. What we are to learn from the book is that Christ is indeed returning, until then we need to be godly examples and seek comfort in this life in the hope of eternity with Him and His glorious return. “To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.” - 1 Thessalonians 3:13.

It is often said that if the devil is not messing with you than maybe you are not living the way God wants you to live. Whether you realize it or not faithful Christians, you are being watched not only by God, but the devil, and the world. Faithful Christians are going to face more persecution than any other because there are souls at stake and we are the only ones leading lost souls to Christ. The city of Thessalonica was a large, thriving, and a very populated place. The newly converted Christians were facing much persecution, Paul writes this letter to commend them of their faith, assure them that their work is not in vain, and remind them that Jesus is returning.

“For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake. For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing. For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.” - 1 Thessalonians 1:5,8-10.

“And to wait for his Son from heaven,” No matter what we do in this life, we must remember that we are going to spend eternity either in the Kingdom of God or lake of fire, we don't need to believe in God to know that the world is being destroyed, and it's not going to stop until Christ returns. Making people follow strict diets, gun control, trying to control “climate change”, sending people to Mars, and even denying that God exists will never stop God from placing judgment upon the earth. All who are saved need to be living a life that leads others to Christ, we may not face an eternity in the lake of fire, but we have to answer to Christ for every soul we didn't tell about Him. No, we are not responsible for those who reject Him, but we are responsible for not giving them the opportunity to know of Him if we were led to tell them by the Holy Spirit and didn't.

“For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God. Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe: As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children, That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory. For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? For ye are our glory and joy.” - 1 Thessalonians 2:9-12,19,20.

“That ye would walk worthy of God,” There is a reason why we are to live a godly life after we are saved, it's not to keep our salvation, it's to show the world that they need Jesus. Everyone by nature knows how to do good things, but what do we do the good for? Most likely it's for our benefit, which is why we can't do enough good to get in the Kingdom of God on our own. Paul encourages the Thessalonians and all of us to live in a manner that is pleasing to God toward all mankind for the sake of the Gospel, no matter how much affliction we face for it.

“That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto. For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know. For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain. Now God himself and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct our way unto you. And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.” - 1 Thessalonians 3:3-5,11-13.

“To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God,” Being a faithful Christian changes your heart, it keeps you from doing things that you would have found no problem with in the world. Sometimes we may get caught up in situations because we confuse something from the devil as from God and that will cause some affliction, but eventually we see our error and repent. We must realize that Jesus is not just for the Jews or Baptists or an other religion, He is for all who believe in Him. While the Jews had the law to follow, it was not what saved them, it was their belief in the coming of Christ, whom they know as the Messiah that saved them. You see, Israel was the example that other nations were to follow to the only living God, many did believe in the Messiah way before He even came to earth, and are in heaven right now awaiting for His return also.

“But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” - 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17.

“For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout,” The truth is, we don't know the hour in which Jesus will return, but every day is one day closer to Him coming. That's why it is important that we who are saved not only preach the Gospel, but live it. We must remember that God will not go back on His promise to redeem every soul who receives His Son, whether we are alive or sleeping (died), but He will not save a soul that has not. He's not being cruel, He's being just, and if we don't accept Him before we die physically, we will know then, and then it will be too late. Faithful Christians are God's witnesses and are to live according to His Will, giving Him glory for glory for all things, including affliction, but in the end it will all be worth it.

“See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” - 1 Thessalonians 5:15-23.

Today's Prayer: God, You save us from hell the second we believe that only Your Son can save us from the punishment we face for our sins. You have called on all believers to take a stand in our faith and allow Christ to be Lord of our lives. May we, by example and word, say to the lost that we serve not the god of this world, but a King who is King of kings, Lord or lords, the Almighty and living God Himself. Let us not be corrupted into believing or following those who have no intention of knowing Your Son, give us the strength to remain faithful no matter what affliction we face, and give us Your power to resist the devil. I ask these things in Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Complete In Christ

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus In Every Chapter
Date: Monday, December 07, 2015
Chapters: The Book of Colossians
Message Title: Complete In Christ

Hello My Friend,

The Book of Colossians is the twelfth book of the New Testament, fifty-first book of the Bible and it contains four chapters. The author of this epistle is Paul, it was written to the church of Colosse and people of Laodicea and Nymphas. Paul wrote the letter approximately 64AD, the purpose was to address false doctrinal issues within the church. What we are to learn from the book is that Christ, God in the flesh, created and is everything. “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him.” - Colossians 1:16.

Before we know of Christ we try to live our lives the best we can, but deep down there is a void we can't seem to fill, which is why many of us wind up in unsatisfying and sometimes dangerous relationships. Once we learn of, accept Christ, and start walking with Him, we see that He fills that void, He completes us. Walking with Christ is not always easy, at first, we are learning of Him and that's great, but we can get stuck in neutral when only walk with what we think we know of Christ. That is where going to a Gospel only believing church, reading the Bible, and fellowshipping with likeminded Christians helps us move forward. It came to Paul's attention that there was some false doctrine going around in the church of Colosse so, he wrote this letter. He first commends them for their faith in Christ, but tells them they have a lot to learn about Him.

“Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; Which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth: That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:” - Colossians 1:4-6,10-12.

“That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing,” Being complete in Christ means we walk with Him and grow in Him daily. Sure, we're not going to be perfect, and we're going to mess up as we go, but that is what Christ is for. He fills in the holes and cracks that sin made in us, and through the Holy Spirit, He helps us be the best we can be in this stinking, corrupt, and greedy world.

“As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;” - Colossians 2:6-13.

“For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.” The Godhead, one God in the form of three persons, God the Father, Jesus, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Probably one of the hardest things to comprehend is the fact that God is Jesus in the flesh, and the Holy Spirit all wrapped up into one powerful God, who can be in several places at one time. You can use visual aids to explain this triage such as an egg, a car, or even a person (a father, and son, and an uncle, all three individual, but still one person), but what it all comes down to is this, faith. It's simple to trust in the things we see, but true blessings come from trusting the things we can't see. “Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” - John 20:29.

The truth is this, God is God, He can do whatever He wants, besides it was important for Him to identify Himself as three separate persons. By faith, we believe Jesus is the sinless Son of God, who died on the cross, was buried, and three days later resurrected. By faith, we accept Christ as our Saviour, depending only on Him to save us from death and hell. By faith, we are accepted of God, and understand there is only One God, existing in three persons. Instead of trying to recreate God in the image we want Him to be, perhaps it's time to let Christ work in us so that He can be seen in us. To be complete in Christ, Paul stresses the importance of seeking the things of Christ, not the world.

“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.” - Colossians 3:1-7.

“For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.” The flesh itself is what brings death to us, rather the sin of the flesh. We are by nature sinners, no matter how good we try to be, we mess up because our flesh desires to be fulfilled, and let me tell you, sin truly destroys us. However, Christ completes us, His blood removes all the stains that sin left behind so that we can stand before God clean and sin free. In closing his letter to the Colossians, Paul encourages them to respect all no matter what they believe, but keep praying and studying the Word of God to be able to know and teach the truth themselves.

“Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven. Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” - Colossians 4:1-6.

“that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” You are complete in Christ, rejoice in that, keep studying God's Word, learn the truth, be ready to respond to anyone trying to tell you otherwise what you have learned. Don't be rude, if they want to believe something else, let them believe it, but at least you will know how to respond the next time they try to tell you to change your belief. “Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:” - 1 Peter 1:18,19.

Today's Prayer: God, In the midst of all my struggles, failures, and doubts I remain confident that You will complete the work that began in me. You accepted me as I was, and You lovingly began reshaping my life into an image of Your Son. Not only are You continuing the good work You began, but You are perfecting those things that weaken my faith and my testimony. I thank You that You will fulfill Your purpose in me, no matter what I believe, but as long as I study Your Word, and live by it, I can be ready to answer those who are trying to discredit You. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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To Live Is Christ

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus With Every Chapter
Date: Sunday, December 06, 2015
Chapters: The Book of Philippians
Message Title: To Live Is Christ

Hello My Friend,

The Book of Philippians is the eleventh book of the New Testament, the fiftieth book of the Bible, and contains four chapters. The author of this epistle is Paul and it was written and transcribed by Epaphroditus from a prison in Rome, to the church of Philippi, in approximately 64AD. The purpose of the letter was to bring unity, to the church, to encourage them to keep going for the Gospel of Christ, and to express gratitude for their Christian liberty. What we are to learn from the book is that unity with Jesus brings us joy in all that we do. “Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.” - Philippians 2:2.

“Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice! Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice! Rejoice, rejoice, and again I say rejoice! Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice!” No matter what we are going through, good or bad, it is to our benefit to rejoice in the Lord. The Church at Philippi in Macedonia was planted by the Apostle Paul about 53AD, The Philippians loved Paul and showed their affection by sending him supplies when he was planting other churches. When they heard he was in prison in Rome, they sent one of their pastors, Epaphroditus to check on him, who then sent him back with this letter. He starts the letter by encouraging them to realize that everything they go through, good or bad is used to for the sake of the Gospel.

“But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel; And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake; Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.” - Philippians 1:12,20,21,27-30.

“Christ shall be magnified in my body,” Jesus wants to shine in us whether we are here on earth or up in heaven with Him. Many do not realize this (and things are much worse than ever), but Christians worshiping God are often like Jewish believers, their worship of Him comes and goes by what state they are in. If things are going well God gets pushed to the side, and they live their lives they way they want, then when things get rough they seek help from Him. There was a time in American history called the Great Awakening, people were on fire for preaching the Gospel of Christ and thousands got saved in a ten year period, many losing their lives for the cause of Christ. Through Paul, we are reminded that every affliction we go through is for the cause of Christ.

“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” - Philippians 2:5-12.

“That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,” Like it or not, every single person conceived and born will stand, no, kneel before Christ. I say conceived because millions of babies did not make it to birth or died at birth, but are blessed already because they never knew sin and went straight to heaven. Most of us often wonder what we would do finally coming face to face with Jesus, and saved or not, we will all fall to our knees either giving thanks to Him or pleading for our souls. Those who know Christ as their Saviour will proceed to heaven as they await His Kingdom and new earth. Those who don't know Him as their Saviour will be cast into hell to await a second death along with the devil and his followers.

“And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast and the false prophet are, and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” - Revelation 20:10-15.

Sometimes God puts us in some strange circumstances in order to bring others to Christ. It is through the Holy Spirit that Christ begins the good work in us, and it is Christ Who will ultimately complete that work in us by transforming us into His own likeness. Paul stresses the importance of remembering that to be gone from this world means we will be with Christ. “But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ, And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.” - Philippians 3:7-12.

“if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended” Apprehend, To take or seize. When we receive Christ as our Saviour we take Him into our soul, He belongs to us and we belong to Him. That means Christ is always with us, even through severe affliction, and it is allowed to not only keep us looking to Him, but bringing others to Him as well. Believe it or not, the world seeks hope also, and if they see our hope in Christ when we are suffering it will bring some to Him. We are all in this together with Christ, Paul encourages the Philippians and all of us to encourage each other, always rejoicing in the Lord, and He will help us through every affliction.

“And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement also, and with other my fellowlabourers, whose names are in the book of life. Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” - Philippians 4:3,4-9.

No matter what life you choose you are going to be afflicted, you can't change yesterday, but you can change today. The past is there for a reason, to help us learn and grow from it, but we must move forward and let all of the things that pull us back into the past go. Christ lives inside of you, the more you grow, the stronger you become, and are able to not only find joy through the affliction, but and end to it as well. “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.” - 1 Peter 5:10. Praise God!

Today's Prayer: God, As much as I want to live my life for You, there are times when I am so overwhelmed with things that I just want to walk away from everything. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate and afflicted. The troubles of my heart are enlarged: O bring thou me out of my distresses. God, Give me the peace, joy, and happiness that I once enjoyed. Give me wisdom and guidance, help me see the light of Christ that shines through Your Son in me. Give me the strength to look to Him in all that I do, and let me not forget to put You at the center of all that I do. I love You, Lord and pray in Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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Walk As Children Of Light

KJB Daily Devotion – Following Jesus With Every Chapter
Date: Saturday, December 05, 2015
Chapters: Ephesians 4-6
Message Title: Walk As Children Of Light

Hello My Friend,

Light, A source of illumination, Spiritual or mental illumination; enlightenment, useful information. Those who know and have trusted Jesus Christ as their Saviour are His light. Now, we must be careful what light we give off, we can either show the love of Christ that would bring others to Him or we could show the corruption of the flesh that would push others away from Him. “Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;” - Ephesians 5:14,17-20.

“Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead,” Before we were saved we were walking corpses because we didn't have the Spirit of God in us. The second we learned of, believed, and received Christ as our Saviour we were filled with the Spirit of God and awaken with new life. Paul stresses the importance of making the best of our new life with Christ so that we do shine in His light. “But ye have not so learned Christ; If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.” - Ephesians 4:20-27.

“Neither give place to the devil.” The devil loves to deceive us into believing that we can live the same life we lived before Christ was in us and not face any consequences for it. This is not true, while we can't lose our salvation after we are saved we can lose our connection with God. We are not perfect, but we are God's people, we can't stop people from living the life they want, but they can't stop us from living for God either. Christ alone is the key to standing firm in our beliefs and not giving into their temptations. “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” - 1 Corinthians 10:13.

We who are saved are children of the living God, that means we are the sons and daughters of God, not just His creation. We are to be the light others follow to Christ, even if we are surrounded by those who are not. Believe it or not, we do make an impression on some of them, if they see us stand by our beliefs it is possible that they will be converted one day. However, all it takes is one bad light, which is why so many people reject the Christian life. The world loves to distort the image of God through these bad lights instead of showing the true meaning of Christianity. Paul encourages the Ephesians to keep walking with Christ, reminding them that they are the light and need to come out of the darkness.

“And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:” - Ephesians 5:2-8.

“walk as children of light:” We are representatives of Christ, meaning we cannot do what the world does if we want to show the world that they need Christ in their lives. You see, God doesn't want see His children living sinful lives, therefore, He always judges them before the world. We are set apart just for God, and He wants the light of His Son to shine through them, not the light of sinful flesh, if we are living sinful lives than we are going to get His chastening. “As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.” - Revelation 3:19.

People who live a worldly life do not care about serving God, they care about serving their flesh, which is just fine if that is the life they want to choose. The sad thing is that they often drag those who truly want to serve God into their endeavors, it is as if they get some kind of thrill out of getting a Christian to go against God. As Paul closes his letter to the Ephesians he reminds them that as children of the light they can be the light of Christ and overcome any temptation by putting in the whole armor of God.

“Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;” - Ephesians 6:11-18.

“Above all, taking the shield of faith,” Living the Christian life and being the light of Christ may not always be easy, but it's one of great rewards. We are in a spiritual battle, God versus Satan, each one trying to get us on their side, the side of Satan always leaves us in pain, suffering, and shame in the end. The side of God always gives us peace and comfort during the pain and suffering, plus victory in the end. It may not always be a glamorous life to be a Christian, but in the end, when everyone finally comes to the realization that they do need Christ, we will already be rejoicing in the Kingdom of God. “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” -Revelations 21:4.

Today's Prayer: God, I admit that it's not always easy to follow in the footsteps of Your Son, it's tough out here in the world. I can truly say with all my heart that I do not miss the worldly life at all, but it is constantly trying to bring me back into it. I know the only way to withstand Satan is to stand strong in my faith, trust in You, and keep myself clothed in Your armor. Lord, I am weak, I know I can't do this on my own, but with You I am strong. Lead me and guide me, let me me the light that others need to see the true Christ in me. I love You Lord, and ask these things in Jesus' name. Amen.

God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina

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