Mt 13
“But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it;
Yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while: for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended.” (20,21)
We have the parable of the sower in this passage. Here, the peculiar phrase “Yet he hath not root in himself” seems to throw the focus of the passage in a different direction. Note that this guy received the Word with joy, but it did not produce fruit in him. One wonders why. We can glean a few things from these few verses that will help us to see why this might be. First, in v. 19, we see that this guy did not understand the Word as he received it; he had the seed in his heart, but not in his head. The sowing is not enough in the heart, but one needs it in the head too. Then, in v. 21, we see the guy that has it in his head, but not in his heart; exactly the opposite of the man in v. 19. In verse 22, we see the guy that neither has it in his head, (understanding) nor in his heart (Believing), but is a carnal, lost man, and in v.23, the man that has it in his head and in his heart.
This “ground” is the heart of man that is either so hard and brittle that nothing good can grow from it, or so soft that nothing will take root in it either. Just as some types of trees grow better in sand, and some in clay, few grow in the hard, brittle dirt a dry seabed, or a barren wasteland. The soil must be worked in all cases, and made conducive to the tree. This is why some seeds of faith take root, and others wither away, the condition of the soil. Both often have water (the Word) and sun (the Son), but the soil has not been prepared. It is barren ground. Yes, the water of the Word is the same for both; the sun (Son) is shining on them both, but the one takes hold of the words of life, while the other wilts and dies for lack of root. He that hath not “root in himself” is that one of which we speak negatively, the dying one. He has the seed, he has the will to receive it, but it has not rooted itself in him, he has not allowed it to, he is hard hearted. He does not have it within himself, but endures for awhile in his own power. Oh, I am afraid we see many of this type in the church today, as well as the others. Take heed to the Word, and allow the Seed to root itself in you, and grow in the garden of faith that you might be fruitful and productive in the Lord and unto others. Remember, the Bible commands us to be kind, and tenderhearted…which is to tenderize our soil for the growth of the seed.
11/29 Strength for Today
John 11:32
“Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.”
Jesus had just finished teaching the people when a messenger came to inform Him that Lazarus was sick. This sickness that Lazarus had was going to take His life. In fact, Jesus even told His disciples that Lazarus was going to die. But the thing that amazes me is, that instead of going to heal Lazarus, Jesus waited a couple of days and let Lazarus die. Once he died, Jesus and His disciples left to go to Lazarus’ house.
On the way to the house, Martha met Him for she knew that He was the only One Who could help her broken and hurting heart. When she saw Jesus she told Him that if He had been at the house her brother would not have died. When arriving at the grave of Lazarus, Mary came and fell at His feet and made the exact same statement that Martha made. That statement we can read in the verse above. Both ladies had a broken heart and were hurting. They knew that Jesus was the cure to help ease the pain and heal their hearts that were broken.
I am afraid many times in life we feel the same way that Mary and Martha felt. If only the LORD would have been there for us, the problems that we faced would not have happened. If we are not careful we will allow the broken heart to drive us to anger and bitterness. Yet, I find that Jesus is still the answer for every broken heart.
Christian, when your heart is broken you better realize that Jesus is the cure. Revenge is not the cure for a broken heart. That will only make things worse. Quitting on God is not the cure for the broken heart. Yes, your heart may be broken, but quitting your service for God will only make things worse. Instead of quitting on God, you need to run to God who has the balm of Gilead to heal your broken heart. Vices are not the cure for your broken heart. Bitterness is not the cure for your broken heart. When your heart has been broken, Jesus is the cure.
As sure as the sun rises in the morning, I know that everyone will face a broken heart sometime in their life. When that time comes there is nothing wrong with crying, this is natural, but you must realize that Jesus is the One Who can help you during this hurtful time. Be careful that you don't do something that will make the broken heart worse. Revenge, quitting, vices and bitterness will only make the pain of the broken heart worse.
The cure for your broken heart is Jesus. Only He can ease the pain. Only He can cure the heart that is broken. Run to Him, let Him know your pain and realize He has the answer to help you if you will only trust Him.
“Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.”
Jesus had just finished teaching the people when a messenger came to inform Him that Lazarus was sick. This sickness that Lazarus had was going to take His life. In fact, Jesus even told His disciples that Lazarus was going to die. But the thing that amazes me is, that instead of going to heal Lazarus, Jesus waited a couple of days and let Lazarus die. Once he died, Jesus and His disciples left to go to Lazarus’ house.
On the way to the house, Martha met Him for she knew that He was the only One Who could help her broken and hurting heart. When she saw Jesus she told Him that if He had been at the house her brother would not have died. When arriving at the grave of Lazarus, Mary came and fell at His feet and made the exact same statement that Martha made. That statement we can read in the verse above. Both ladies had a broken heart and were hurting. They knew that Jesus was the cure to help ease the pain and heal their hearts that were broken.
I am afraid many times in life we feel the same way that Mary and Martha felt. If only the LORD would have been there for us, the problems that we faced would not have happened. If we are not careful we will allow the broken heart to drive us to anger and bitterness. Yet, I find that Jesus is still the answer for every broken heart.
Christian, when your heart is broken you better realize that Jesus is the cure. Revenge is not the cure for a broken heart. That will only make things worse. Quitting on God is not the cure for the broken heart. Yes, your heart may be broken, but quitting your service for God will only make things worse. Instead of quitting on God, you need to run to God who has the balm of Gilead to heal your broken heart. Vices are not the cure for your broken heart. Bitterness is not the cure for your broken heart. When your heart has been broken, Jesus is the cure.
As sure as the sun rises in the morning, I know that everyone will face a broken heart sometime in their life. When that time comes there is nothing wrong with crying, this is natural, but you must realize that Jesus is the One Who can help you during this hurtful time. Be careful that you don't do something that will make the broken heart worse. Revenge, quitting, vices and bitterness will only make the pain of the broken heart worse.
The cure for your broken heart is Jesus. Only He can ease the pain. Only He can cure the heart that is broken. Run to Him, let Him know your pain and realize He has the answer to help you if you will only trust Him.
11/28 Fundamental Thoughts
…The LORD Is Good
In Psalm 100 quoted below, we see that we as a people, and as a nation are to “make a joyful noise unto the LORD.”
What is a “joyful noise?” The noise is our conversation with the LORD. It is our “knee time.” It is you and I praising God from “whom all blessings flow.”
We as individuals must understand, (regardless of what the world states) God is our Creator. “He…made us.” We are His, the sheep of His pasture. Yet, most of us are more like goats or cows. We must be driven rather than being led as a lamb. God’s sheep follow Him,
(John 10:4) “…and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.”
How do we as one who professes Jesus, (we who are called Christians,) justify our personal walk with the Lord? We may pray and give noise unto the Lord, however, the remaining question is, “Is it a joyful noise?” Have we entered into His House with a meek, thankful heart? On the other hand, is it because it would look bad to the Jones’ if we didn’t go to Church, (you know how nosy they are,) if we would stay home?
[1] Dr. Raymond Barber stated, “You should never make recommendations to God. Instead, you should simply report for duty.”
You and I are simply to bless His name, and rejoice over what has been given, whether a mountain or a valley. He, as the song tells us is the same God in either place. “For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting;” Trust Him today.
Bro John R. E Chastain
11/27 The Great "I AM"
THE “I AM”
Lesson 1
Genesis 15
“After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.” (v. 1)
This is the first of the “I AM” claims in the Bible by the Lord our God. Though the “I AM” has not been technically introduced yet, we see Him telling Abraham that He is a shield unto him, his “exceeding great reward.” He is all that and more to each of us too. There are so many things in the Bible that God “is” that we can by no means cover all of them, but I hope to show the glory of God by dealing with some significant aspects of His nature, and with many of His “I AM’s”. What greater reward could we ask than that which we have in the Lord? The Lord is a shield from the darts of Satan, to keep us day by day along the way; He is a shield from the attacks of enemies and from unseen trials; The Lord is our shield from all ailments and plagues. He is there for our protection. This promise to Abraham is our promise too, by faith, as all of them are.
The Lord tells us all what He said to Abraham, saying “Fear not… I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.” That “exceeding great reward” entails many things, all the blessings of God, and they are all for us. Part of that is a relationship with the God of gods and the Lord of lords. It is amazing that such a superior Being as God would even consider wanting to know such measly and pitiful creatures as men. Can you imagine that? The Creator of Heaven and earth, the Almighty God, the great and powerful God of gods wants to love us, and to know that we love Him. In other societies, among the heathen nations, their gods were demeaning, and demanding of them sacrifices of human flesh, and all sorts of things. They had to appease the “gods” before they could ask anything of them, and then they may not get it anyway, if their “gods” were not in a good mood! What a way to live. What a God we have that will condescend to our level, and meet our needs, no matter how impossible they seem to be. He indeed is our “exceeding great reward.” That great reward is free for all of us. It comes through the avenue of grace. This grace supercedes all graces, and overcomes all obstacles. It enriches us to the extreme, and blesses us beyond belief. With this grace, we can actually, and totally “fear not”, and walk in the assurance of God’s love.
Lesson 1
Genesis 15
“After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.” (v. 1)
This is the first of the “I AM” claims in the Bible by the Lord our God. Though the “I AM” has not been technically introduced yet, we see Him telling Abraham that He is a shield unto him, his “exceeding great reward.” He is all that and more to each of us too. There are so many things in the Bible that God “is” that we can by no means cover all of them, but I hope to show the glory of God by dealing with some significant aspects of His nature, and with many of His “I AM’s”. What greater reward could we ask than that which we have in the Lord? The Lord is a shield from the darts of Satan, to keep us day by day along the way; He is a shield from the attacks of enemies and from unseen trials; The Lord is our shield from all ailments and plagues. He is there for our protection. This promise to Abraham is our promise too, by faith, as all of them are.
The Lord tells us all what He said to Abraham, saying “Fear not… I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.” That “exceeding great reward” entails many things, all the blessings of God, and they are all for us. Part of that is a relationship with the God of gods and the Lord of lords. It is amazing that such a superior Being as God would even consider wanting to know such measly and pitiful creatures as men. Can you imagine that? The Creator of Heaven and earth, the Almighty God, the great and powerful God of gods wants to love us, and to know that we love Him. In other societies, among the heathen nations, their gods were demeaning, and demanding of them sacrifices of human flesh, and all sorts of things. They had to appease the “gods” before they could ask anything of them, and then they may not get it anyway, if their “gods” were not in a good mood! What a way to live. What a God we have that will condescend to our level, and meet our needs, no matter how impossible they seem to be. He indeed is our “exceeding great reward.” That great reward is free for all of us. It comes through the avenue of grace. This grace supercedes all graces, and overcomes all obstacles. It enriches us to the extreme, and blesses us beyond belief. With this grace, we can actually, and totally “fear not”, and walk in the assurance of God’s love.
11/26 Crumbs From the Master's Table
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (Jn 3: 16)
John 3:16 is probably the most quoted and most familiar verse in the entire Bible to children and adults alike, and yet do many ever take time to meditate on what it is saying? Do we attempt to analyze the verse and break it down to squeeze all the blessed fruit out of it? Probably the key word in this verse is “believeth”, at least that is the one word that allows us to find the gift of true life that is provided by Christ. Contrary to the prevailing opinions, “believeth” is the key word and the entrance into the realm of the Holy. You see, the verse has little to offer without the belief. God gave His Son to the entire world, even those who don’t seek Him, and who seem to care less of His comforting grace; He has provided the same love for them as He has for us. He is there for them too, but the difference is, they will not believe. I do not say they cannot believe, but that they “will not”. You see, belief is a definite act of the will. You choose to believe or disbelieve. We first must make up our minds to believe God, then we begin to put our belief into action. So, believing is a decision; a wise one, but still a decision.
Belief is a miracle worker. It moves mountains because it has the strength of faith behind it. Belief then is the determining factor as to whether we are saved or not. It is by grace that we are saved, but through the conduit of faith we receive the gift of salvation. You see, it is there already, just waiting for us to tap into it, and make a pipeline that leads directly to our hearts for it to travel through. It is there in Jesus. He is Salvation; He is faith; He is belief; he is everything we need; He is the One and only, everlasting life. The question for all mankind today and always is, “Will you believe?” Will you take Christ at his word, and accept Him as your sacrifice for sin? That is a decision we all must make, and it is the most crucial decision we will ever have to make. It is not a matter of life and death, but of eternity, and eternal life and death. It is a decision that follows us throughout our lives, and beckons us daily until we face it; it will not leave us alone until we decide to do the wise thing; the right thing.
Even after we are saved, and walking in the grace of His love, we can still be guilty of unbelief. We can never move mountains until we believe; we can be a child of God, but weak in faith, and for the same reason—we refuse to believe. Faith is not out of reach for us; it is not some high mountain that we are unable to scale; its there before us, ours for the taking. We have the Word of God to back it up; the words of God for support of it, and yet ye will not believe. Oh ye of little faith, will ye not make that decision today? Will you believe God and His Word? If so, there is nothing that you cannot accomplish for Him; no task is too large, and no chore too small for His glory. Take Him at His Word, and try Him, and see if it is not so.
John 3:16 is probably the most quoted and most familiar verse in the entire Bible to children and adults alike, and yet do many ever take time to meditate on what it is saying? Do we attempt to analyze the verse and break it down to squeeze all the blessed fruit out of it? Probably the key word in this verse is “believeth”, at least that is the one word that allows us to find the gift of true life that is provided by Christ. Contrary to the prevailing opinions, “believeth” is the key word and the entrance into the realm of the Holy. You see, the verse has little to offer without the belief. God gave His Son to the entire world, even those who don’t seek Him, and who seem to care less of His comforting grace; He has provided the same love for them as He has for us. He is there for them too, but the difference is, they will not believe. I do not say they cannot believe, but that they “will not”. You see, belief is a definite act of the will. You choose to believe or disbelieve. We first must make up our minds to believe God, then we begin to put our belief into action. So, believing is a decision; a wise one, but still a decision.
Belief is a miracle worker. It moves mountains because it has the strength of faith behind it. Belief then is the determining factor as to whether we are saved or not. It is by grace that we are saved, but through the conduit of faith we receive the gift of salvation. You see, it is there already, just waiting for us to tap into it, and make a pipeline that leads directly to our hearts for it to travel through. It is there in Jesus. He is Salvation; He is faith; He is belief; he is everything we need; He is the One and only, everlasting life. The question for all mankind today and always is, “Will you believe?” Will you take Christ at his word, and accept Him as your sacrifice for sin? That is a decision we all must make, and it is the most crucial decision we will ever have to make. It is not a matter of life and death, but of eternity, and eternal life and death. It is a decision that follows us throughout our lives, and beckons us daily until we face it; it will not leave us alone until we decide to do the wise thing; the right thing.
Even after we are saved, and walking in the grace of His love, we can still be guilty of unbelief. We can never move mountains until we believe; we can be a child of God, but weak in faith, and for the same reason—we refuse to believe. Faith is not out of reach for us; it is not some high mountain that we are unable to scale; its there before us, ours for the taking. We have the Word of God to back it up; the words of God for support of it, and yet ye will not believe. Oh ye of little faith, will ye not make that decision today? Will you believe God and His Word? If so, there is nothing that you cannot accomplish for Him; no task is too large, and no chore too small for His glory. Take Him at His Word, and try Him, and see if it is not so.
11/23 Strength for Today
Growing and Developing People
Romans 12:12
“Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;”
Trying to grow and develop people is never an easy process. Working with people can become a frustrating thing, as people will not always do what you want them to do. But I will say that if you don't quit on people, you will find the rewards of your works to be refreshing and fulfilling.
In the verse above you will find a formula that God gives us to aid in developing people. Of course, when I say developing people I am mainly talking about developing them into good Christians. But this formula will work no matter the area in which you are trying to develop and grow someone.
First of all, when growing and developing people you must learn to compliment any progress. Notice the verse says, “Rejoicing in hope...” When you see progress in someone there is hope that they will eventually end up where God wants them to be. If we are not careful, we will be so frustrated that they are not what we want them to become that we miss the little steps of growth in the individual we are trying to develop. Complimenting someone on the growth we see in them will motivate them to continue to grow in their development. Everybody likes to be complimented. When we don't compliment any growth we frustrate the one whom we’re trying to develop and may cause them to stop growing.
I have heard of organizations that annually analyze the growth of the employees. Most of these analyses are nothing more than leadership griping about its failure to develop their followers. Instead of showing their employees the growth they see, they show where they lack, which only discourages the employees. If leadership wants those whom they lead to grow, then compliment any growth you see and followers will be more apt and motivated to change their weaknesses.
Secondly, be patient with people when they mess up. God said to be “...patient in tribulation...” Leaders must learn to be patient with the weaknesses of followers. Without patience you will discourage those whom you are trying to build. Leaders without patience will run off followers. Though they messed up, you must be patient with their weaknesses. When they don’t do everything like they are supposed to do, be patient, they are still growing and developing into what they should become. This will take patience on the side of leadership.
Thirdly, keep those whom you lead in your prayers. The verse above says, “...continuing instant in prayer;” The best way to grow and develop someone is to pray for them. Pray that God will give you, as a leader, the wisdom to know how to help them grow. Pray that God will work in the heart of the follower to see where they need to grow. Also, pray that God will allow both of you to grow and do the work God intended you to do.
Whether you are a parent working with a child, leader working with a follower, pastor working with a church member, ministry leader working with an individual, schoolteacher working with a student or an employer working with an employee, these three things will help you to grow and develop people into what they should become. Growth in people should be our goal. When they grow, then we are growing, thus accomplishing what God desires for all, growth.
Romans 12:12
“Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;”
Trying to grow and develop people is never an easy process. Working with people can become a frustrating thing, as people will not always do what you want them to do. But I will say that if you don't quit on people, you will find the rewards of your works to be refreshing and fulfilling.
In the verse above you will find a formula that God gives us to aid in developing people. Of course, when I say developing people I am mainly talking about developing them into good Christians. But this formula will work no matter the area in which you are trying to develop and grow someone.
First of all, when growing and developing people you must learn to compliment any progress. Notice the verse says, “Rejoicing in hope...” When you see progress in someone there is hope that they will eventually end up where God wants them to be. If we are not careful, we will be so frustrated that they are not what we want them to become that we miss the little steps of growth in the individual we are trying to develop. Complimenting someone on the growth we see in them will motivate them to continue to grow in their development. Everybody likes to be complimented. When we don't compliment any growth we frustrate the one whom we’re trying to develop and may cause them to stop growing.
I have heard of organizations that annually analyze the growth of the employees. Most of these analyses are nothing more than leadership griping about its failure to develop their followers. Instead of showing their employees the growth they see, they show where they lack, which only discourages the employees. If leadership wants those whom they lead to grow, then compliment any growth you see and followers will be more apt and motivated to change their weaknesses.
Secondly, be patient with people when they mess up. God said to be “...patient in tribulation...” Leaders must learn to be patient with the weaknesses of followers. Without patience you will discourage those whom you are trying to build. Leaders without patience will run off followers. Though they messed up, you must be patient with their weaknesses. When they don’t do everything like they are supposed to do, be patient, they are still growing and developing into what they should become. This will take patience on the side of leadership.
Thirdly, keep those whom you lead in your prayers. The verse above says, “...continuing instant in prayer;” The best way to grow and develop someone is to pray for them. Pray that God will give you, as a leader, the wisdom to know how to help them grow. Pray that God will work in the heart of the follower to see where they need to grow. Also, pray that God will allow both of you to grow and do the work God intended you to do.
Whether you are a parent working with a child, leader working with a follower, pastor working with a church member, ministry leader working with an individual, schoolteacher working with a student or an employer working with an employee, these three things will help you to grow and develop people into what they should become. Growth in people should be our goal. When they grow, then we are growing, thus accomplishing what God desires for all, growth.
11/23 Daily in the Word
Thankful for Missionaries
Monday, November 23, 2009
by Dr. Paul Chappell
"O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth. Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens. Honour and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength. Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts. O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth. Say among the heathen that the LORD reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously."
Psalm 96:1-10
Missionaries are the cream of the crop of Christianity.
A few decades ago, a missionary was working hard at spreading the Gospel in China. Impressed by the advances he was making with the Chinese government, the Standard Oil Company offered the missionary a weighty sum of money to work for them in developing a branch of the company in China. The missionary promptly turned them down. Shocked, the company doubled their offer, giving him a sum of money that would draw even the strongest of people to consider the life of luxury it could offer. Again, the missionary refused the job. Puzzled, the company asked him what it was he wanted. "We can't offer you any more money." The missionary replied, "The money's not too small; the job is."
If your church is like ours, each year we have a Missions Conference. Missionaries come, meet the church family, and present their vision for their field. But do you realize what revered servants of God these people are? These people are willing to inconvenience themselves for the sake of the Gospel. These are the true heroes of the Christian faith.
God has called us all to be missionaries. He has called us all to "declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people." Yet God calls many Christians to travel to other parts of the world to spread His message to people who have never heard.
Missionaries are the cream of the crop of Christianity. Thank God that His servants are willing to face difficulty so that others can hear of salvation. As "homeland" missionaries, we should be willing to do two things for missionaries. First, and most importantly, we must pray. Each day, we should pray for missionaries. Our missionaries face situations we will never face-wars, famine, hostility, government opposition, and paganism. They need our prayers on a daily basis.
Second, our missionaries need our financial support. Without the funds of God's people, missionaries wouldn't be able to continue ministering. As our economy has downturned, the economy of many mission fields have downgraded worse than our own. It is so important that during this time of difficulty, we continue our giving to missions.
Spend time thanking God for missionaries who are traveling to the ends of the earth so people can hear of Christ. If you don't already, I would encourage you to pick up a list of missionaries from your church and begin praying for them on a daily basis. Pray for God's protection, provision, and working in their land. Never forget the great sacrifice of these heroes of the faith.
Monday, November 23, 2009
by Dr. Paul Chappell
"O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth. Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the LORD made the heavens. Honour and majesty are before him: strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and strength. Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come into his courts. O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth. Say among the heathen that the LORD reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously."
Psalm 96:1-10
Missionaries are the cream of the crop of Christianity.
A few decades ago, a missionary was working hard at spreading the Gospel in China. Impressed by the advances he was making with the Chinese government, the Standard Oil Company offered the missionary a weighty sum of money to work for them in developing a branch of the company in China. The missionary promptly turned them down. Shocked, the company doubled their offer, giving him a sum of money that would draw even the strongest of people to consider the life of luxury it could offer. Again, the missionary refused the job. Puzzled, the company asked him what it was he wanted. "We can't offer you any more money." The missionary replied, "The money's not too small; the job is."
If your church is like ours, each year we have a Missions Conference. Missionaries come, meet the church family, and present their vision for their field. But do you realize what revered servants of God these people are? These people are willing to inconvenience themselves for the sake of the Gospel. These are the true heroes of the Christian faith.
God has called us all to be missionaries. He has called us all to "declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people." Yet God calls many Christians to travel to other parts of the world to spread His message to people who have never heard.
Missionaries are the cream of the crop of Christianity. Thank God that His servants are willing to face difficulty so that others can hear of salvation. As "homeland" missionaries, we should be willing to do two things for missionaries. First, and most importantly, we must pray. Each day, we should pray for missionaries. Our missionaries face situations we will never face-wars, famine, hostility, government opposition, and paganism. They need our prayers on a daily basis.
Second, our missionaries need our financial support. Without the funds of God's people, missionaries wouldn't be able to continue ministering. As our economy has downturned, the economy of many mission fields have downgraded worse than our own. It is so important that during this time of difficulty, we continue our giving to missions.
Spend time thanking God for missionaries who are traveling to the ends of the earth so people can hear of Christ. If you don't already, I would encourage you to pick up a list of missionaries from your church and begin praying for them on a daily basis. Pray for God's protection, provision, and working in their land. Never forget the great sacrifice of these heroes of the faith.
11/21 Fundamental Thoughts
…Believe That He Is
The scripture Hebrews 11:3-6 quoted below tells us a lot. First, we see the reiteration that God created the worlds, and it wasn’t done with an arbitrary “Big Bang.” If there was a “Big Bang,” God created it and directed the action. I don’t know past the Biblical explanation how the universe was created, and for sure neither does anyone else.
We then see a discussion of faith, now faith in God, not the lottery system. Although Abel was murdered by his brother, he spoke from the ground through his blood to God. Then we see Enoch. Because of his great faith, he was translated up to walk with God. Enoch pleased God.
All these verses talk about faith, faith in God, faith about God, and faith of God. The problem we see is that without faith in God, we cannot please God. Most who read this will claim God, and most who hear the message of the Gospel have already claimed Him. Yet, if we as a people who are called by His name:
(2 Chronicles 7:14) If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
will (or shall) “humble themselves.” Maybe this is our problem. We, in our pride want to have the faith that, “I can do it by myself.” It is our pride and our stubbornness, which keeps us from God. (Of course, maybe you have humbled yourselves, or maybe it is we are not praying and seeking His face in faith.)
If we do not believe that He is a rewarder, how do we expect to hear from Him? We are told it is those who diligently seek Him; not with a faint heart, not with doubt in our minds, but a heart that loves the Lord Jesus, and believes through Him nothing is impossible.
(Deuteronomy 6:5) And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.
Do you love Him with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your might? If not that may be your answer as to why God’s blessings (rewards) have not passed your way like you think they should. If you do not have the faith, you may need to look at your heart. Maybe you have an overriding pride, a doubt or two, or a sin that is holding you away from God. If after giving yourself an honest check-up, then talk to God and ask for the forgiveness you need. Then repent, and stay right with God.
Bro John R. E Chastain
11/20 Fundamental Thoughts
Blessed Are They...
Reading our scripture below, we know about Doubting Thomas. Jesus tells Thomas, “because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” We will be blessed in our belief.
How many times yesterday was our belief tested? Probably more than a few times, especially if we prayed, and read our Bible. I doubt you were tested, if you didn’t spend any time with God. “But, Bro John I was busy, I had things to do, places to go, Bro John I just didn’t have time, but Lord willing I will tomorrow.” Well what about today? The Lord is willing that we converse with Him in prayer and by reading our Bible.
We have called ourselves Believers of Jesus the Christ. We call ourselves Christian, yet, we don’t take fifteen minutes and spend time with God, and receive a blessing.
Thomas wasn’t at the first meeting that Jesus appeared. Knowing now what happened, can’t you just hear Peter telling Thomas what had happened. The expression on Thomas’ face, and his voice would tell the tale of doubt in his heart. Not only did Thomas doubt the women, he also doubted the other Disciples.
In this day and times, isn’t that what is going on? People are walking away from Bible preaching churches because the message is too hard to believe. The message they have trusted over the years is now in their minds fanatical tales. Just like Thomas, they doubt the bearer of the Good News of God.
They are requesting that publishers make the Bible easier to read, and the publishers are obliging. At the same time, they are changing the context of God’s Holy Word.
Yet, when Thomas came face to face with Jesus, “what did he say?” “My Lord and my God” Isn’t that what happened to us when Christ Jesus confronted us eyeball to eyeball via the Holy Spirit? I know it wasn’t really eyeball to eyeball, but it was heart to heart. Wasn’t it then that He became “My Lord and my God,” and all those doubts were erased? We then became true disciples of Christ.
Erase those doubts accept Him and become a new person with a new character, and have that new assurance and that new hope of everlasting life.
Bro. John Chastain
11/19 Daily in the Word
Thankful for His Love
Thursday, November 19, 2009
by Dr. Paul Chappell
"This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you."
John 15:12-14
The greatest love you can show someone is to give up your own desires and help them.
There is a story told of a poor beggar woman who did all she could to provide for her small baby. She begged, pleaded, and even stole when necessary to find food for her and her child. One winter was especially harsh, and as weeks went by, she found herself with no food for either herself or her child. Exhausting all her options, she resorted to door-to-door begging, hoping someone would have pity on her and her child. The northern winds had blown in and snow was steadily falling as she travelled to each home, begging for food. Most people ignored her knocking, turned her away, or refused her the food they were enjoying. Yet at one house a young mother opened the door and, seeing this lady's troubles, offered her a warm sweet potato she was about to eat. The poor mother graciously accepted the potato, bit off part of it, and began chewing it. As the young mother watched, the beggar woman chewed the food, then placed it into the mouth of her baby and continued the process until all the potato was gone. The beggar mother didn't eat any of the potato for herself but gave it all to her child. The next morning the gracious young mother who had given her meal to the beggar woman, found the poor beggar lady lying still in the snow near her home. Her heart had stopped beating in the night, but her baby was still alive.
What drove this poor woman to reject even a piece of the potato and give it all to her child? I'm sure she was to the point of hunger that everything in her wanted to swallow the potato. Yet out of love she rejected those impulses and gave all she had to her tiny baby.
It has been said that a love that does not cost anything is not worth anything. Our world believes love to be a strong feeling of fondness, pleasure, or enjoyment. Love can come and go, just as easily as the seasons. Yet God describes love as a choice-a choice to love and to show that love through action.
The Bible gives us many great examples of active love. Jochebed risked her life to hide baby Moses from the Egyptian guards. Abraham offered his own son as a sacrifice at God's request. To save her people from mass genocide, Esther risked her life to go unto the king uncalled. But I'm sure we would all agree the most definitive act of love is described in our verse today, "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." Christ loved us so much that He willingly laid down His life for ours. He took our place in paying a sin debt He never owed.
God has described His love to us in the Bible through psalms, stories, and metaphors; yet He didn't leave it at that. He not only described His love, but He proved it by sending His only Son to be our Saviour. His love was proved through action.
We often say we love someone or have love toward some people, yet we do nothing to show it. Love is a costly thing. Love cannot idly sit by and do nothing. True love always takes action. When someone is hurting, down-trodden, or in trouble; true love is not merely stated, but takes action.
Thank God today that He not only described His love, but showed it on Calvary's Cross. Without His love, we would be lost and without a way of escape from sin. Never take for granted the love Jesus displayed for you by dying in your place.
Also, make sure that your love isn't only a spoken love. If you say you love someone, act upon that love. Take time to help them; minister to their needs; actively show them your love. Never forget that the greatest love you can show someone is to give up your own desires and help them.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
by Dr. Paul Chappell
"This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you."
John 15:12-14
The greatest love you can show someone is to give up your own desires and help them.
There is a story told of a poor beggar woman who did all she could to provide for her small baby. She begged, pleaded, and even stole when necessary to find food for her and her child. One winter was especially harsh, and as weeks went by, she found herself with no food for either herself or her child. Exhausting all her options, she resorted to door-to-door begging, hoping someone would have pity on her and her child. The northern winds had blown in and snow was steadily falling as she travelled to each home, begging for food. Most people ignored her knocking, turned her away, or refused her the food they were enjoying. Yet at one house a young mother opened the door and, seeing this lady's troubles, offered her a warm sweet potato she was about to eat. The poor mother graciously accepted the potato, bit off part of it, and began chewing it. As the young mother watched, the beggar woman chewed the food, then placed it into the mouth of her baby and continued the process until all the potato was gone. The beggar mother didn't eat any of the potato for herself but gave it all to her child. The next morning the gracious young mother who had given her meal to the beggar woman, found the poor beggar lady lying still in the snow near her home. Her heart had stopped beating in the night, but her baby was still alive.
What drove this poor woman to reject even a piece of the potato and give it all to her child? I'm sure she was to the point of hunger that everything in her wanted to swallow the potato. Yet out of love she rejected those impulses and gave all she had to her tiny baby.
It has been said that a love that does not cost anything is not worth anything. Our world believes love to be a strong feeling of fondness, pleasure, or enjoyment. Love can come and go, just as easily as the seasons. Yet God describes love as a choice-a choice to love and to show that love through action.
The Bible gives us many great examples of active love. Jochebed risked her life to hide baby Moses from the Egyptian guards. Abraham offered his own son as a sacrifice at God's request. To save her people from mass genocide, Esther risked her life to go unto the king uncalled. But I'm sure we would all agree the most definitive act of love is described in our verse today, "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." Christ loved us so much that He willingly laid down His life for ours. He took our place in paying a sin debt He never owed.
God has described His love to us in the Bible through psalms, stories, and metaphors; yet He didn't leave it at that. He not only described His love, but He proved it by sending His only Son to be our Saviour. His love was proved through action.
We often say we love someone or have love toward some people, yet we do nothing to show it. Love is a costly thing. Love cannot idly sit by and do nothing. True love always takes action. When someone is hurting, down-trodden, or in trouble; true love is not merely stated, but takes action.
Thank God today that He not only described His love, but showed it on Calvary's Cross. Without His love, we would be lost and without a way of escape from sin. Never take for granted the love Jesus displayed for you by dying in your place.
Also, make sure that your love isn't only a spoken love. If you say you love someone, act upon that love. Take time to help them; minister to their needs; actively show them your love. Never forget that the greatest love you can show someone is to give up your own desires and help them.
11/19 North Point
Thursday, November 19
The Renewed Mind
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”
- Romans 12:2
Certain passages of the Bible stand out when one speaks of a particular subject. No passage of the Bible speaks out more clearly on the subject of the Christian life than Romans 12:1-2. If you can grasp these two verses, you will have an understanding of what God needs from you every day if you are to serve Christ to the fullest extent possible.
To be transformed from worldliness to spirituality requires a renewed mind. Only then can we “prove” – that is, test, try, evaluate, or determine - what truly is God’s desire, His will, for your life on a moment by moment basis. You need to change your thinking!
Dr. Woodrow Kroll writes of this, “Thus the mind (Gr nous, the center of logical reasoning, ethical judgment, and moral awareness) must be completely changed if we are to live a life that is holy and acceptable unto God.”
We all need a complete transformation – a metamorphosis! Just as an ugly, worm-like, crawling caterpillar turns into a beautiful, flying butterfly (biological metamorphosis), God wants you to shed the fleshly, worldly, sinful thinking and be transformed into faithful, spiritually minded, committed follower of Jesus Christ. Selah – meditate on this thought and let God renew your mind!
Is your thought life under God’s control?
What are areas in your life that need to be transformed; changed from conformity to the world to what God wants for you?
The Renewed Mind
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”
- Romans 12:2
Certain passages of the Bible stand out when one speaks of a particular subject. No passage of the Bible speaks out more clearly on the subject of the Christian life than Romans 12:1-2. If you can grasp these two verses, you will have an understanding of what God needs from you every day if you are to serve Christ to the fullest extent possible.
To be transformed from worldliness to spirituality requires a renewed mind. Only then can we “prove” – that is, test, try, evaluate, or determine - what truly is God’s desire, His will, for your life on a moment by moment basis. You need to change your thinking!
Dr. Woodrow Kroll writes of this, “Thus the mind (Gr nous, the center of logical reasoning, ethical judgment, and moral awareness) must be completely changed if we are to live a life that is holy and acceptable unto God.”
We all need a complete transformation – a metamorphosis! Just as an ugly, worm-like, crawling caterpillar turns into a beautiful, flying butterfly (biological metamorphosis), God wants you to shed the fleshly, worldly, sinful thinking and be transformed into faithful, spiritually minded, committed follower of Jesus Christ. Selah – meditate on this thought and let God renew your mind!
Is your thought life under God’s control?
What are areas in your life that need to be transformed; changed from conformity to the world to what God wants for you?
11/18 Fundamental Thoughts
Our Confession
Reading our scripture below brings to my mind a few verses in Romans:
(Romans 14:11-12 KJB) For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God 12 So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God.
To get ourselves into the context of the verses the bulletin quotes, we must see that regardless whether or not we go to Heaven, (even those who are placed within God’s wrath, Hell,) will bow to Jesus.
This confession must be a confession from the heart, and must be made with the Holy Spirit calling. This confession has to be made with sincerity.
(Hebrews 10:22 KJB) Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
If you expect to draw nearer to God, it must be done first with a true (sincere) heart. So many have called upon His Name with a prayer that did not involve sincerity nor was it from the heart. The Holy Spirit was absent, nowhere to be found, and there was no real desire to become a child of God. They simply professed to comply with a Mother’s or a spouses wish. Maybe they professed just to get rid of the Messenger; however, they did it, and one day they will confess to Him eyeball to eyeball, as they move to God’s throne to receive His wrath.
(John 3:36 KJB) He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
So, the question is, where do you want to confess His name, here or in the hereafter. By confessing here you will be given a Mansion in Heaven in sight of God and His Son, whereas, you failing to confess here the wrath of God will abide with you eternally.
(John 3:16 KJB) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
“Whosoever” tells us it doesn’t matter what you are, what you have been, nor does it require anything but to believe in Jesus. Then and only then will eternal life in Heaven be given you. We all have eternal life. It is a matter of choosing where do you want to go,
Heaven or Hell. It is your choice. Confess Him today.
Bro. John R. E Chastain
11/17 Strength for Today
Results Of Salvation
Acts 2:42
“And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.”
The verse above is the result of what happened in the church of Jerusalem after the day of Pentecost. When studying the Scriptures we see on this day that three thousand people were saved and baptized in one day. What a miracle day! But I feel that sometimes we neglect to show what happened to these who got saved after this great day. Verses 42-47 showed the results of what salvation did in the lives of these who received Christ as Saviour. Let me show you these results.
First of all, in verse 42 we find that they obeyed God's Word. Salvation should bring obedience to the Word of God. I love watching new Christians because they are hungry to obey the Word of God. Never before did God's Word mean as much to them, but salvation brought the importance of obeying God and His Word.
Secondly, again in verse 42 we see they prayed. When a person gets saved they will want to pray and talk to God. I wonder about those who say they are saved and never want to talk to the One Who saved them from their sins. In the Scriptures, when people got saved, prayer always followed their salvation.
Thirdly, salvation brings about a changed lifestyle. In verse 43 we see a fear of God came upon these people after they got saved. A proper fear of God will bring about a lifestyle change. Where before they used to live for the world, now they are living for God. In the Scriptures when someone got saved there was a definite lifestyle change.
Fourthly, in verses 44-45 salvation gave these people a heart to give. It’s amazing how these people sold their possessions and gave to others in need all because salvation came to them. You will find when a person gets saved their heart towards giving to God and the needy will change.
Next, in verse 46 salvation gave the church unity. This unity was not with Christians everywhere as much as it was a unity among the local church brethren. When you get saved it's amazing how you will get along with people. Salvation changes the heart of an individual where everything is not about them but about others and this will cause people to get along.
Next, in verse 46 we see salvation caused these people to be faithful in their service to God. They did daily what they were supposed to do. When you get saved you will see the importance of being faithful to serving God and going to church.
Last of all, in verse 47 salvation caused these people to tell others about Christ. Soul winning will always be the result of people getting saved. When you get saved you will want to tell others about Christ.
Let me close with an observation. The longer we are saved the easier it is to let these things slip. Let's be sure to make these areas a staple of our Christian lives. If we are not careful we will let these things slip because of an indifferent heart. Let's keep the results of salvation as a priority by which to live. I believe if we will keep these seven areas healthy we will keep our Christian life healthy and this will please God.
Acts 2:42
“And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.”
The verse above is the result of what happened in the church of Jerusalem after the day of Pentecost. When studying the Scriptures we see on this day that three thousand people were saved and baptized in one day. What a miracle day! But I feel that sometimes we neglect to show what happened to these who got saved after this great day. Verses 42-47 showed the results of what salvation did in the lives of these who received Christ as Saviour. Let me show you these results.
First of all, in verse 42 we find that they obeyed God's Word. Salvation should bring obedience to the Word of God. I love watching new Christians because they are hungry to obey the Word of God. Never before did God's Word mean as much to them, but salvation brought the importance of obeying God and His Word.
Secondly, again in verse 42 we see they prayed. When a person gets saved they will want to pray and talk to God. I wonder about those who say they are saved and never want to talk to the One Who saved them from their sins. In the Scriptures, when people got saved, prayer always followed their salvation.
Thirdly, salvation brings about a changed lifestyle. In verse 43 we see a fear of God came upon these people after they got saved. A proper fear of God will bring about a lifestyle change. Where before they used to live for the world, now they are living for God. In the Scriptures when someone got saved there was a definite lifestyle change.
Fourthly, in verses 44-45 salvation gave these people a heart to give. It’s amazing how these people sold their possessions and gave to others in need all because salvation came to them. You will find when a person gets saved their heart towards giving to God and the needy will change.
Next, in verse 46 salvation gave the church unity. This unity was not with Christians everywhere as much as it was a unity among the local church brethren. When you get saved it's amazing how you will get along with people. Salvation changes the heart of an individual where everything is not about them but about others and this will cause people to get along.
Next, in verse 46 we see salvation caused these people to be faithful in their service to God. They did daily what they were supposed to do. When you get saved you will see the importance of being faithful to serving God and going to church.
Last of all, in verse 47 salvation caused these people to tell others about Christ. Soul winning will always be the result of people getting saved. When you get saved you will want to tell others about Christ.
Let me close with an observation. The longer we are saved the easier it is to let these things slip. Let's be sure to make these areas a staple of our Christian lives. If we are not careful we will let these things slip because of an indifferent heart. Let's keep the results of salvation as a priority by which to live. I believe if we will keep these seven areas healthy we will keep our Christian life healthy and this will please God.
11/17 Psalm 10
PSALM 10
AUTHOR: David
The Story Behind the Psalm
The tenth Psalm is a continuation of the ninth Psalm. Some have suggested they should be combined into one, but that is not important. It does, however, deal with the same subject and was written perhaps at the same time under the same circumstances.
The Way It Was Used by God's People
This also was a Psalm used in times of bereavement. Through the years when I have been bereaved, I have taken refuge in Psalms 9 and 10. On December 13, 1950, at 3:00 in the afternoon on Mother's Day, I stood at the casket of my father. My heart was broken for many reasons, when suddenly I felt a hand on my arm. It was holding me tightly. I thought perhaps some friend had grasped my arm in an effort to comfort me and give me strength. I turned to see who the friend was and could see no one. Then suddenly it dawned upon me that the Friend of friends had touched me with His hand. I could feel it not only in my heart, but I could feel it on my arm.
A mother had been taken from a home. After the funeral service the grief-stricken father and son returned for their first night at home without their wife and mother. During the night the little boy began to whimper. His dad asked him if he could help, whereupon the little boy replied through the darkness, "Daddy, is your face turned toward me?"
The father reached his big hand out and held the son's and said, "Yes, son, my face is turned toward
You." When we are bereaved we may look to our Heavenly Father and ask, "Father, is Your face turned toward me?" The answer is always in the affirmative. His face IS truly turned toward us, especially in hours of bereavement.
AUTHOR: David
The Story Behind the Psalm
The tenth Psalm is a continuation of the ninth Psalm. Some have suggested they should be combined into one, but that is not important. It does, however, deal with the same subject and was written perhaps at the same time under the same circumstances.
The Way It Was Used by God's People
This also was a Psalm used in times of bereavement. Through the years when I have been bereaved, I have taken refuge in Psalms 9 and 10. On December 13, 1950, at 3:00 in the afternoon on Mother's Day, I stood at the casket of my father. My heart was broken for many reasons, when suddenly I felt a hand on my arm. It was holding me tightly. I thought perhaps some friend had grasped my arm in an effort to comfort me and give me strength. I turned to see who the friend was and could see no one. Then suddenly it dawned upon me that the Friend of friends had touched me with His hand. I could feel it not only in my heart, but I could feel it on my arm.
A mother had been taken from a home. After the funeral service the grief-stricken father and son returned for their first night at home without their wife and mother. During the night the little boy began to whimper. His dad asked him if he could help, whereupon the little boy replied through the darkness, "Daddy, is your face turned toward me?"
The father reached his big hand out and held the son's and said, "Yes, son, my face is turned toward
You." When we are bereaved we may look to our Heavenly Father and ask, "Father, is Your face turned toward me?" The answer is always in the affirmative. His face IS truly turned toward us, especially in hours of bereavement.
11/17 Daily in the Word
Thankful for the Fulfillment of the Law
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
by Dr. Paul Chappell
"Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly."
Psalm 119:1-8
Christ freed us from the law, not so we could live without it, but so we could voluntarily live by it.
Living in an imperfect world is evidenced by the lawlessness of many people around us. But perhaps a more unusual example of ridiculous imperfection would be some of the laws different cities have enacted over the history of our nation. Consider the following laws and former laws as an example:
In Los Angeles, it is illegal to bathe two babies in the same bathtub. In Carmel, NY, it is illegal to walk outside with pants and a jacket that do not match.
In Lexington, KY, an ordinance states that it is illegal for someone to walk around with an ice cream cone in his pocket.
In Kansas, an old law prohibits the consumption of snakes on Sunday. In Hartford, CT, it is illegal for someone to cross the street while walking on their hands.
In Baltimore, MD, it is illegal for someone to take a lion to the movies.
In New Jersey, a person can be arrested for slurping soup in a public restaurant.
In Oklahoma, it is illegal for someone to take a bite of another person's hamburger.
In Lynn, MA, it is illegal to give coffee to a baby.
In Lehigh, NE, it is illegal for donut holes to be sold.
While many of these laws seem ludicrous, there was probably a reason behind each of them. These laws might not mean much to us, but God's laws should be known to all of us. As early as Moses' time, God gave a set of laws He desired for His people to follow. These laws are the guidelines by which the Israelites, and us today, should abide.
When looking at the Ten Commandments, it can be easy to become frustrated. Laws such as not bearing false witness (lying) or not coveting have been broken by us all. But God's laws weren't meant to be kept (it is impossible for us to be perfect); they were meant to point out our need for a Saviour.
Christ's death on the Cross fulfilled the law. Israel no longer needed to offer sacrifices for their sin; the ultimate Sacrifice had been offered, and the debt had been paid.
Praise God that Christ fulfilled the law for us! We are justified through His blood and made perfect before God. Does this mean we should neglect the law and its commands? Not at all. As our verses show today, living by God's law brings blessing. Living a righteous life is not necessary for salvation, but something done out of love for God.
Thank God today that obeying the law does not save you. Thank Him that He fulfilled the law, a list of commands none of us could keep. Christ's death on the Cross has saved and justified us before the Heavenly Father.
While salvation is not a result of living by the law, remember that God still desires for you to live righteously. Make sure your actions today would please God, not because they will merit you salvation, but because of your thankfulness for the sacrifice Christ made on Calvary.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
by Dr. Paul Chappell
"Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments. I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly."
Psalm 119:1-8
Christ freed us from the law, not so we could live without it, but so we could voluntarily live by it.
Living in an imperfect world is evidenced by the lawlessness of many people around us. But perhaps a more unusual example of ridiculous imperfection would be some of the laws different cities have enacted over the history of our nation. Consider the following laws and former laws as an example:
In Los Angeles, it is illegal to bathe two babies in the same bathtub. In Carmel, NY, it is illegal to walk outside with pants and a jacket that do not match.
In Lexington, KY, an ordinance states that it is illegal for someone to walk around with an ice cream cone in his pocket.
In Kansas, an old law prohibits the consumption of snakes on Sunday. In Hartford, CT, it is illegal for someone to cross the street while walking on their hands.
In Baltimore, MD, it is illegal for someone to take a lion to the movies.
In New Jersey, a person can be arrested for slurping soup in a public restaurant.
In Oklahoma, it is illegal for someone to take a bite of another person's hamburger.
In Lynn, MA, it is illegal to give coffee to a baby.
In Lehigh, NE, it is illegal for donut holes to be sold.
While many of these laws seem ludicrous, there was probably a reason behind each of them. These laws might not mean much to us, but God's laws should be known to all of us. As early as Moses' time, God gave a set of laws He desired for His people to follow. These laws are the guidelines by which the Israelites, and us today, should abide.
When looking at the Ten Commandments, it can be easy to become frustrated. Laws such as not bearing false witness (lying) or not coveting have been broken by us all. But God's laws weren't meant to be kept (it is impossible for us to be perfect); they were meant to point out our need for a Saviour.
Christ's death on the Cross fulfilled the law. Israel no longer needed to offer sacrifices for their sin; the ultimate Sacrifice had been offered, and the debt had been paid.
Praise God that Christ fulfilled the law for us! We are justified through His blood and made perfect before God. Does this mean we should neglect the law and its commands? Not at all. As our verses show today, living by God's law brings blessing. Living a righteous life is not necessary for salvation, but something done out of love for God.
Thank God today that obeying the law does not save you. Thank Him that He fulfilled the law, a list of commands none of us could keep. Christ's death on the Cross has saved and justified us before the Heavenly Father.
While salvation is not a result of living by the law, remember that God still desires for you to live righteously. Make sure your actions today would please God, not because they will merit you salvation, but because of your thankfulness for the sacrifice Christ made on Calvary.
11/17 North Point
Tuesday, November 17
The Key to Fruitfulness
“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” -- John 15:16
It is clearly God’s purpose for every Christian to bring forth fruit, and to have that fruit remain. But what is the key to producing fruit, the key to fruitfulness?
Dr. Paul Chappell writes how many years ago Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote a little booklet entitled “How to Live in Christ.” In this book, she wrote the following: “How does the branch bear fruit? Not by incessant effort for sunshine and air; not by vain struggles—it simply abides in the vine, in silent and undisturbed union, and blossoms and fruit appear as of spontaneous growth.”
This is known as abiding in Christ! Dwelling in Him, being vitally connected to Him! Letting His power flow into us as we are all the while being conformed to His image, “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.” (Romans 8:29)
The key to fruitfulness is abiding in Christ. It is that simple: nothing more, nothing less. When you are His branch connected to the root, which is Christ Himself, it is only natural that you will bear spiritual fruit!
Am I being fruitful – truly reaching the potential that God wants for me in the area of fruit-bearing?
Am I letting Christ’s power, grace, and mercy flow through me, energizing and empowering me to bear more fruit?
The Key to Fruitfulness
“Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” -- John 15:16
It is clearly God’s purpose for every Christian to bring forth fruit, and to have that fruit remain. But what is the key to producing fruit, the key to fruitfulness?
Dr. Paul Chappell writes how many years ago Harriet Beecher Stowe wrote a little booklet entitled “How to Live in Christ.” In this book, she wrote the following: “How does the branch bear fruit? Not by incessant effort for sunshine and air; not by vain struggles—it simply abides in the vine, in silent and undisturbed union, and blossoms and fruit appear as of spontaneous growth.”
This is known as abiding in Christ! Dwelling in Him, being vitally connected to Him! Letting His power flow into us as we are all the while being conformed to His image, “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.” (Romans 8:29)
The key to fruitfulness is abiding in Christ. It is that simple: nothing more, nothing less. When you are His branch connected to the root, which is Christ Himself, it is only natural that you will bear spiritual fruit!
Am I being fruitful – truly reaching the potential that God wants for me in the area of fruit-bearing?
Am I letting Christ’s power, grace, and mercy flow through me, energizing and empowering me to bear more fruit?
11/16 Strength for Today
Speak Openly
John 18:20
“Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.”
When Jesus was being tried by the religious leaders of His day, one of the questions they asked Him was about His doctrine. Jesus responded to their question in the verse above by reminding them that they heard Him speak. Jesus continued by telling them that when He taught, He spoke “...openly to the world...” Jesus drove the nail in deeper by saying that when He spoke He never spoke in secret. In other words, what Jesus was telling these men was that He never said one thing in public and another in private. Everything that He spoke was the same whether it was in public or private. He wanted them to understand that He said what He meant.
This mentality seems to be lacking in our society. When you look at our political leaders, they are always trying to explain away something they said off the cuff or years ago. What happened is they said something that was not politically correct and later on, for the sake of appearing politically correct, they try to change what they said. We need to be careful that we don't become like the politicians who say one thing to one crowd and another thing to another crowd in order to make everyone happy.
In order to be like our Saviour, we should learn to speak openly all the time. One of the benefits of speaking openly is you never have to second-guess what you said. If you mean what you say all the time then you never have to remember what you said.
If we are going to live this way where we speak openly all the time then we better be careful what we say. Before you jump out and say something, you better think about what you are going to say realizing that later on it could come back to bite you. Remember, everything that we say will eventually be held against us.
This is why parents need to be careful what they tell their children. Children keep a mental record of all that we say and will use it against us if we start double speaking. Even followers will do the same to their leaders. People expect us to follow through with what we say.
I encourage you to be open when you speak. Don't speak with subliminal messages; speak openly. Know what you believe, and if you are careful when you speak, then you will find yourself not having to explain away what you really said. We normally speak what our heart believes, so if you know what you believe and don't change, then you will have no problem speaking openly. If you speak openly all the time then you will have fewer questions to answer for people will know what you believe.
John 18:20
“Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing.”
When Jesus was being tried by the religious leaders of His day, one of the questions they asked Him was about His doctrine. Jesus responded to their question in the verse above by reminding them that they heard Him speak. Jesus continued by telling them that when He taught, He spoke “...openly to the world...” Jesus drove the nail in deeper by saying that when He spoke He never spoke in secret. In other words, what Jesus was telling these men was that He never said one thing in public and another in private. Everything that He spoke was the same whether it was in public or private. He wanted them to understand that He said what He meant.
This mentality seems to be lacking in our society. When you look at our political leaders, they are always trying to explain away something they said off the cuff or years ago. What happened is they said something that was not politically correct and later on, for the sake of appearing politically correct, they try to change what they said. We need to be careful that we don't become like the politicians who say one thing to one crowd and another thing to another crowd in order to make everyone happy.
In order to be like our Saviour, we should learn to speak openly all the time. One of the benefits of speaking openly is you never have to second-guess what you said. If you mean what you say all the time then you never have to remember what you said.
If we are going to live this way where we speak openly all the time then we better be careful what we say. Before you jump out and say something, you better think about what you are going to say realizing that later on it could come back to bite you. Remember, everything that we say will eventually be held against us.
This is why parents need to be careful what they tell their children. Children keep a mental record of all that we say and will use it against us if we start double speaking. Even followers will do the same to their leaders. People expect us to follow through with what we say.
I encourage you to be open when you speak. Don't speak with subliminal messages; speak openly. Know what you believe, and if you are careful when you speak, then you will find yourself not having to explain away what you really said. We normally speak what our heart believes, so if you know what you believe and don't change, then you will have no problem speaking openly. If you speak openly all the time then you will have fewer questions to answer for people will know what you believe.
11/16 Psalm 9
PSALM 9
AUTHOR: David
The Story Behind the Psalm
In the sixth Psalm we found David penitent and saddened because of the fatal illness of his infant son. Now in Psalm 9 that son has passed away and David is reflecting upon the abbreviated life of the little one and his sin that caused it. Ah, 'tis sad that such tragedy has to come in our lives to make us aware of the importance of our staying in the will of God.
Years ago when I was pastoring in Garland, Texas, a young man came down the aisle in response to the message during the invitation time. He said that God had called him to preach but he could not do it. He could not afford to do it because he had a good job and his wife was opposed to his entering the ministry. He simply could not preach, he said. It wasn't long until a beautiful baby left their home for Heaven. Could I ever forget the day when I stood beside a little casket at the Williams Funeral Home in Garland, Texas! Friends and family had passed by to view the body and then with trembling hands, a broken heart and moistened eyes came the young parents. The father reached down into the casket and lifted the little baby's body into his arms and shouted through tears, "I can preach now! I can preach now! I can preach now!"
The Way It Was Used by God's People
It is not difficult to discern the use of this Psalm by the people of God. It was used in times of bereavement at the loss of a loved one. Has someone very dear to you passed away? Then take refuge under the wings of Psalm 9.
AUTHOR: David
The Story Behind the Psalm
In the sixth Psalm we found David penitent and saddened because of the fatal illness of his infant son. Now in Psalm 9 that son has passed away and David is reflecting upon the abbreviated life of the little one and his sin that caused it. Ah, 'tis sad that such tragedy has to come in our lives to make us aware of the importance of our staying in the will of God.
Years ago when I was pastoring in Garland, Texas, a young man came down the aisle in response to the message during the invitation time. He said that God had called him to preach but he could not do it. He could not afford to do it because he had a good job and his wife was opposed to his entering the ministry. He simply could not preach, he said. It wasn't long until a beautiful baby left their home for Heaven. Could I ever forget the day when I stood beside a little casket at the Williams Funeral Home in Garland, Texas! Friends and family had passed by to view the body and then with trembling hands, a broken heart and moistened eyes came the young parents. The father reached down into the casket and lifted the little baby's body into his arms and shouted through tears, "I can preach now! I can preach now! I can preach now!"
The Way It Was Used by God's People
It is not difficult to discern the use of this Psalm by the people of God. It was used in times of bereavement at the loss of a loved one. Has someone very dear to you passed away? Then take refuge under the wings of Psalm 9.
11/16 Daily in the Word
Covered by Sand
Monday, November 16, 2009
by Dr. Paul Chappell
"And it came to pass in those days, when Moses was grown, that he went out unto his brethren, and looked on their burdens: and he spied an Egyptian smiting an Hebrew, one of his brethren. And he looked this way and that way, and when he saw that there was no man, he slew the Egyptian, and hid him in the sand. And when he went out the second day, behold, two men of the Hebrews strove together: and he said to him that did the wrong, Wherefore smitest thou thy fellow? And he said, Who made thee a prince and a judge over us? intendest thou to kill me, as thou killedst the Egyptian? And Moses feared, and said, Surely this thing is known."
Exodus 2:11-14
The consequences of confessing sin immediately are far less than the consequences of hiding sin.
Daniel and the Hebrew children had remained faithful, even in the midst of temptation. But what if they hadn't made the right choice? What if they had given into their flesh and followed the world's path? Notice another well-known Bible character today who did give in to his flesh, and made a wrong choice.
We have all heard the stories of Moses and the plagues, the miracle at the Red Sea, and the Ten Commandments. But our verses show a story that is often overlooked in Moses' life, a story that shows us the humanity of Moses.
Through God's providence, Moses was saved from a slaughter of all the male Jewish children by the pharaoh of Egypt. He was taken to the palace and grew up as the son of the pharaoh's daughter. Living a lavish lifestyle while his fellow Hebrews suffered enslavement must have convicted Moses. He knew he wasn't like the Egyptian royalty, yet he also wasn't like the Hebrews who worked tirelessly for their cruel taskmasters. No doubt Moses spent time thinking of this.
One day as he was out walking around the city, he happened upon an Egyptian beating one of his Hebrew countrymen. After looking to see if anyone was watching, the Hebrew prince of Egypt killed the taskmaster and buried him. Thinking his sin was hid, he went on with his life until the next day when two Hebrew men confronted him with his actions. Fearing the consequences of the news reaching the palace, Moses fled into the desert to hide.
Moses thought what he was doing was a just thing at the time; I'm sure he thought he was helping the Hebrew slave, yet he found that the sin he thought he had hid by burying the man had come back to haunt him. The Hebrews feared him and the Egyptians hated him. His sin had been found out.
Many times we can run into the same situation. Have you ever made a bad decision in private, only to have it be found out? Moses found that no amount of sand could hide his sin. Covering sin or lying about it never makes it go away. Sin has a way of coming back to hurt the sinner when it is hidden. Think of this warning. "But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out" (Numbers 32:23).
It's a tough lesson to learn the hard way, but sin will always be found out. Perhaps you can cover it for a week, a month, or even a year; but sin will come back to hurt you. One of the worst things you can do when you sin is seek to hide it. God knows of your actions, even if no one else knows.
The consequences of confessing sin immediately are far less than the consequences of hiding sin. Moses spent the next forty years running from his sin. Don't allow the devil to trick you into thinking sin is less harmful hidden. Only confession and repentance can help put the sin behind you.
Do you have any hidden sin in your life? Have you tried covering it? Don't let the fear of immediate consequences keep you from confessing your sin. God wants to forgive you and help you overcome the sin, but you must first admit your sin and confess it before Him.
Monday, November 16, 2009
by Dr. Paul Chappell
"And it came to pass in those days, when Moses was grown, that he went out unto his brethren, and looked on their burdens: and he spied an Egyptian smiting an Hebrew, one of his brethren. And he looked this way and that way, and when he saw that there was no man, he slew the Egyptian, and hid him in the sand. And when he went out the second day, behold, two men of the Hebrews strove together: and he said to him that did the wrong, Wherefore smitest thou thy fellow? And he said, Who made thee a prince and a judge over us? intendest thou to kill me, as thou killedst the Egyptian? And Moses feared, and said, Surely this thing is known."
Exodus 2:11-14
The consequences of confessing sin immediately are far less than the consequences of hiding sin.
Daniel and the Hebrew children had remained faithful, even in the midst of temptation. But what if they hadn't made the right choice? What if they had given into their flesh and followed the world's path? Notice another well-known Bible character today who did give in to his flesh, and made a wrong choice.
We have all heard the stories of Moses and the plagues, the miracle at the Red Sea, and the Ten Commandments. But our verses show a story that is often overlooked in Moses' life, a story that shows us the humanity of Moses.
Through God's providence, Moses was saved from a slaughter of all the male Jewish children by the pharaoh of Egypt. He was taken to the palace and grew up as the son of the pharaoh's daughter. Living a lavish lifestyle while his fellow Hebrews suffered enslavement must have convicted Moses. He knew he wasn't like the Egyptian royalty, yet he also wasn't like the Hebrews who worked tirelessly for their cruel taskmasters. No doubt Moses spent time thinking of this.
One day as he was out walking around the city, he happened upon an Egyptian beating one of his Hebrew countrymen. After looking to see if anyone was watching, the Hebrew prince of Egypt killed the taskmaster and buried him. Thinking his sin was hid, he went on with his life until the next day when two Hebrew men confronted him with his actions. Fearing the consequences of the news reaching the palace, Moses fled into the desert to hide.
Moses thought what he was doing was a just thing at the time; I'm sure he thought he was helping the Hebrew slave, yet he found that the sin he thought he had hid by burying the man had come back to haunt him. The Hebrews feared him and the Egyptians hated him. His sin had been found out.
Many times we can run into the same situation. Have you ever made a bad decision in private, only to have it be found out? Moses found that no amount of sand could hide his sin. Covering sin or lying about it never makes it go away. Sin has a way of coming back to hurt the sinner when it is hidden. Think of this warning. "But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin will find you out" (Numbers 32:23).
It's a tough lesson to learn the hard way, but sin will always be found out. Perhaps you can cover it for a week, a month, or even a year; but sin will come back to hurt you. One of the worst things you can do when you sin is seek to hide it. God knows of your actions, even if no one else knows.
The consequences of confessing sin immediately are far less than the consequences of hiding sin. Moses spent the next forty years running from his sin. Don't allow the devil to trick you into thinking sin is less harmful hidden. Only confession and repentance can help put the sin behind you.
Do you have any hidden sin in your life? Have you tried covering it? Don't let the fear of immediate consequences keep you from confessing your sin. God wants to forgive you and help you overcome the sin, but you must first admit your sin and confess it before Him.
11/16 Fundamental Thoughts
Do You?
As I read John 11:21-26 below, I consider the statement Martha made to Jesus: “(John 11:21) …Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.”
How many times do we as believers pose this question to Jesus? The inevitable problem is generally, had we been with Jesus, maybe the problem would have never existed. It seems you and I have the problem of not including Jesus in our “real” lives, just our “religious” lives.
However, what was Martha saying? We know Lazarus was a believer. He died to give Jesus a sign that He is what He said He is. The question that Jesus poses is the question in which a lot of folks struggle. “Am I a true believer, am I saved?” The only person on earth that can answer that question is you.
The problem you may have is a lack of knowledge concerning Jesus. God tells in His written Word that if we Believe, salvation and eternal Life with Jesus and His Father is ours in heaven.
(John 3:16) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Here Jesus tells us that regardless of who, or what you are, you can be saved simply by believing. The next obvious question would be, “what am I to believe?” Paul gives us insight to that answer.
(Romans 10:9) 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.
Paul tells us two things we need to do. The first is that we “shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus,” We need to “confess” in our heart that we are sincere in our belief, then confess Jesus to others. “What are we to confess?” That we believe in our heart (sincerely) that God has raised Jesus from the grave.
(Hebrews 10:22) Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
This is a simple but powerful belief. However, you must state this with a true (sincere) heart with the faith that God is true and not a liar. If you believe as we have discussed, then God’s Salvation is given to you through God. “…thou shalt be saved.”
So my question to you is, “Do You?
Bro John R. E Chastain
11/16 Fundamental Thoughts
Our Sins
Read our scripture below, and do understand this was written to the Jews. However, Paul tells us in:
(Hebrews 8:12 KJB) For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.
So we, those of us who have accepted Jesus Christ as our personal Saviour, can know our sins will not be remembered by God no more.
Some have told me, that to be forgiven is the equivalent of Salvation. Jesus died on the cross, for you and I. He died so that we might have Salvation and that we might have the opportunity to be saved from Hell. We are told in:
(Romans 10:9 KJB) 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.
In other words that if I will believe that God raised Jesus from the grave, and confess Jesus to others, that He would save me. There is no other requirement, nothing else to do. Once we have accepted Jesus, and we know He is our Lord, and then we need to come to Him with a sincere heart and ask Him to help you identify your sins and help you remove them from your life.
(Hebrews 10:22 KJB) Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
When we go to God it must be with a sincere, true heart, then we need to clear our heart from all evil thoughts, grudges and hate. We need to be as spiritually clean as we can get.
So the question remains, have you gone to the Lord recently asking for His forgiveness of your current sins? In some of us it might need to be a daily thing, but regardless it ought to be done with a sincere repentant heart. Knowing you have sinned against God. What are you going to do?
Bro. John R. E Chastain
11/9 Daily in the Word
Thankful for God's Faithfulness
Monday, November 9, 2009
by Dr. Paul Chappell
"And they said unto him, Where is Sarah thy wife? And he said, Behold, in the tent. And he said, I will certainly return unto thee according to the time of life; and, lo, Sarah thy wife shall have a son. And Sarah heard it in the tent door, which was behind him. Now Abraham and Sarah were old and well stricken in age; and it ceased to be with Sarah after the manner of women. Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also? And the LORD said unto Abraham, Wherefore did Sarah laugh, saying, Shall I of a surety bear a child, which am old? Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son."
Genesis 18:9-14
God's promises are worth more than those of the most trustworthy person you know.
Abraham was enjoying an ordinary day with his wife Sarah, when they spotted two visitors traveling toward their tent. Excited at the prospect of entertaining guests, Sarah began preparing food for them, and Abraham went out to meet them. Abraham and Sarah welcomed the guests, and while Sarah was in the tent, the guests made a shocking promise to Abraham. God had promised Abraham years before that He would provide a nation through Abraham. A new group of people would come from Abraham's offspring. Yet years later, they had no child. I'm sure Abraham and Sarah were disappointed, confused, and left wondering about God's promise; yet here were two visitors reinforcing God's promise.
The two visitors claimed that Sarah would indeed bear a child. How could that be possible? Sarah was past "child-bearing" years. Both Abraham and Sarah were too old to become new parents. As Sarah was in the tent, she heard the promise by the visitors, and was so overcome with disbelief that she laughed at the saying. One visitor turned to Abraham and questioned his wife's disbelief, then reassured them both with these words: "Is any thing too hard for the LORD?"
God shows time and again through His Word that He is faithful to keep His promises. He promised Abraham a nation, and He miraculously provided him with a son. He promised salvation from the flood for Noah, and He gave Noah plans for the Ark. He promised the children of Israel a new land, and He led them through the desert. He promised David the throne, and He protected him from Saul's attacks. He promised the world a Saviour and provided His own Son, born in a manger one Bethlehem night. God's Word is full of examples of His faithfulness.
No matter what has happened in history, God has remained faithful. The promises He has made to His people have all been performed. If there is one surety in our world, it is that God's Word is true, and He is faithful to keep His promises.
In good times, God is faithful. In bad times, God is faithful. In times of uncertainty, God is faithful. In times of doubt, God is faithful. During transitions and changing times, God will still be faithful to His promises. He has promised to provide for you (Isaiah 41:10), to protect you (Genesis 15:1), to be with you (Hebrews 13:5), to lead you (John 10:4), and to guide your steps (Psalm 25:9). You can count on God's faithfulness to fulfill His promises!
Take a few minutes today to reflect on God's faithfulness. Consider how faithful He's been to His people throughout history. Through all the turmoil and conflict of history, God has faithfully kept the promises of His Word. As He says in 1 Samuel 12:22, "For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you his people."
Are you worried about something in your life? Has a situation caused you confusion and doubt? Consider the promises of God. He has never broken a single promise He's made. Don't allow the devil to cause you to worry; trust the promises of God and remember that your God is faithful no matter the situation.
Monday, November 9, 2009
by Dr. Paul Chappell
"And they said unto him, Where is Sarah thy wife? And he said, Behold, in the tent. And he said, I will certainly return unto thee according to the time of life; and, lo, Sarah thy wife shall have a son. And Sarah heard it in the tent door, which was behind him. Now Abraham and Sarah were old and well stricken in age; and it ceased to be with Sarah after the manner of women. Therefore Sarah laughed within herself, saying, After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure, my lord being old also? And the LORD said unto Abraham, Wherefore did Sarah laugh, saying, Shall I of a surety bear a child, which am old? Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son."
Genesis 18:9-14
God's promises are worth more than those of the most trustworthy person you know.
Abraham was enjoying an ordinary day with his wife Sarah, when they spotted two visitors traveling toward their tent. Excited at the prospect of entertaining guests, Sarah began preparing food for them, and Abraham went out to meet them. Abraham and Sarah welcomed the guests, and while Sarah was in the tent, the guests made a shocking promise to Abraham. God had promised Abraham years before that He would provide a nation through Abraham. A new group of people would come from Abraham's offspring. Yet years later, they had no child. I'm sure Abraham and Sarah were disappointed, confused, and left wondering about God's promise; yet here were two visitors reinforcing God's promise.
The two visitors claimed that Sarah would indeed bear a child. How could that be possible? Sarah was past "child-bearing" years. Both Abraham and Sarah were too old to become new parents. As Sarah was in the tent, she heard the promise by the visitors, and was so overcome with disbelief that she laughed at the saying. One visitor turned to Abraham and questioned his wife's disbelief, then reassured them both with these words: "Is any thing too hard for the LORD?"
God shows time and again through His Word that He is faithful to keep His promises. He promised Abraham a nation, and He miraculously provided him with a son. He promised salvation from the flood for Noah, and He gave Noah plans for the Ark. He promised the children of Israel a new land, and He led them through the desert. He promised David the throne, and He protected him from Saul's attacks. He promised the world a Saviour and provided His own Son, born in a manger one Bethlehem night. God's Word is full of examples of His faithfulness.
No matter what has happened in history, God has remained faithful. The promises He has made to His people have all been performed. If there is one surety in our world, it is that God's Word is true, and He is faithful to keep His promises.
In good times, God is faithful. In bad times, God is faithful. In times of uncertainty, God is faithful. In times of doubt, God is faithful. During transitions and changing times, God will still be faithful to His promises. He has promised to provide for you (Isaiah 41:10), to protect you (Genesis 15:1), to be with you (Hebrews 13:5), to lead you (John 10:4), and to guide your steps (Psalm 25:9). You can count on God's faithfulness to fulfill His promises!
Take a few minutes today to reflect on God's faithfulness. Consider how faithful He's been to His people throughout history. Through all the turmoil and conflict of history, God has faithfully kept the promises of His Word. As He says in 1 Samuel 12:22, "For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you his people."
Are you worried about something in your life? Has a situation caused you confusion and doubt? Consider the promises of God. He has never broken a single promise He's made. Don't allow the devil to cause you to worry; trust the promises of God and remember that your God is faithful no matter the situation.
11/9 North Point
Monday, November 9
The Enduring Promise and Our Response
“And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” - Matthew 16:18
In our text for today, we have the first mention of Christ’s church. It was yet future, as He said, “I will build my church.” There is a “kingdom” battle going on, as the Lord Jesus promised that “the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” When we are born-again we change kingdoms! He has “delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son.” (Col. 1:13)
The point that we must take note of here is that Jesus Christ said that He would build His church. He bought the church with His own blood (Acts 20:28), gave Himself for the church (Eph. 5:25), and promised that He would protect it as the gates of hell will not prevail against it. That is Christ’s enduring promise to the church!
What is our response? We must obey Him. When Jesus Christ commissioned His church in Matthew 28:19-20, there is but one command. We are to make disciples! (teach, Matt. 28:19) When the Lord Jesus ascended back to the Father, there wasn’t much in the way of the usual measures of success left behind: no buildings, no companies, and no monetary fortune! What He did leave behind were the changed lives of men and women who followed Him, His disciples. In Mark 16:20 we read of these disciples, “And they went forth, and preached everywhere.” Disciples respond to Christ’s command to reproduce themselves, making disciples both through the local church ministries and through worldwide missions.
Praise God this morning for His promise that no matter what happens, His kingdom will prevail.
Is your response to God’s enduring promise the same as the first century disciples who went everywhere preaching the gospel?
The Enduring Promise and Our Response
“And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” - Matthew 16:18
In our text for today, we have the first mention of Christ’s church. It was yet future, as He said, “I will build my church.” There is a “kingdom” battle going on, as the Lord Jesus promised that “the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” When we are born-again we change kingdoms! He has “delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son.” (Col. 1:13)
The point that we must take note of here is that Jesus Christ said that He would build His church. He bought the church with His own blood (Acts 20:28), gave Himself for the church (Eph. 5:25), and promised that He would protect it as the gates of hell will not prevail against it. That is Christ’s enduring promise to the church!
What is our response? We must obey Him. When Jesus Christ commissioned His church in Matthew 28:19-20, there is but one command. We are to make disciples! (teach, Matt. 28:19) When the Lord Jesus ascended back to the Father, there wasn’t much in the way of the usual measures of success left behind: no buildings, no companies, and no monetary fortune! What He did leave behind were the changed lives of men and women who followed Him, His disciples. In Mark 16:20 we read of these disciples, “And they went forth, and preached everywhere.” Disciples respond to Christ’s command to reproduce themselves, making disciples both through the local church ministries and through worldwide missions.
Praise God this morning for His promise that no matter what happens, His kingdom will prevail.
Is your response to God’s enduring promise the same as the first century disciples who went everywhere preaching the gospel?
11/09 Fundamental Thoughts -by Pastor John R. E Chastain
It Is Good For Me
Read our scripture below, and you might be reminded as I was of the song, “Oh Where Could I Go.” When I stop and consider the valleys and the mountains we as a church family have been witnessing, I also think of the song Bro. Lonnie Needham sings, “The God of The Mountain.”
Our verse tells us “…it is good for me to draw nearer to God.” As a Christian, we are facing a day when God will call us home. We will certainly be nearer God. However, as we see in our text we need to put our “…trust in the Lord God...” now.
That is the problem we all have I’ll get to know Him and trust Him when I get there. Have any of you entered a marriage without at the very least having been introduced? If you are saved and know without a doubt if you died today that heaven would be your home, then you have been introduced to Jesus. But have you become acquainted with Him? You see the problem is we have an arranged marriage in heaven, and we need to get to know our partner, Jesus, before we get there.
I know when Sharil and I were engaged to be married; it was a time of acquaintance, a time of learning each others thoughts and ideas. When we did get married, it was another time of more intimate knowledge of ourselves, and over these 48 plus years, we have been growing in knowledge of each other.
Our weekly Church Assembly is a time for each of us to come together, worship our Lord and Saviour, get to know Him (draw nearer), and get better acquainted with what He expects from us. It is a time of Bible Study, and a time of devotion to our Saviour. It is a means of strengthening our hearts, and allowing us to protect ourselves from the wiles of Satan.
(Hebrews 10:22) Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
Have a true heart, a sincere heart, and do draw nearer to Him in full assurance of faith, knowing you will never perish, but we have the everlasting peace and eternity of God.
Bro. John R. E Chastain
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