HOPE Is A Four-Letter Word…..

Hope is a four-letter word packed with meaning. It’s what sustains a man through the toughest of trials. They say you can live 3 minutes without oxygen, and three days without water, and 40 days without food, but you can’t live 3 seconds without hope. It’s the anchor of the soul. Jesus’ sacrificed Himself in hope of all people being saved. Unfortunately, all people means those who willingly place their faith and trust in Him. This was always extended to all people. It says it, right in the scriptures for today. Today is the day of Salvation, don’t let it pass you by because you have more important things in your agenda. There are no more important things than your Salvation, or the saving of the souls of others out there without hope.

51 He did not say this on his own; as high priest at that time he was led to prophesy that Jesus would die for the entire nation. 52 And not only for that nation, but to bring together and unite all the children of God scattered around the world. John 11:51-52

Jesus Was Overcome With Emotion….

The NLT translates Jesus’ emotions as “a deep anger welled up within Him” when it came to seeing Mary and others weeping at her brother Lazarus’ death. Why? Could it have been because of their disbelief of what He was about to do? Could it be because Jesus knew this wasn’t how the world was supposed to work (when sin was introduced, death became a reality)? Or even Lazarus’ death reminded of His upcoming torturous, sacrificial death? Maybe there’s another reason. We are not told. The only thing we know is that Jesus was overcome with emotion to the point that He was troubled. Later it tells us He was still angry when He arrived at the tomb. The conclusion I can come to is the fact that death and disease are a result of sin. Sin drives us away from God. Jesus is the only way back to God. Yet the nature inside all of us wants to “do it” our way, not His Way. That’s the saddest thing about life. Death and disease, and trials and tribulations, are all because of this thing called sin. The fact that Jesus was angry, only shows us of His great concern for us. We wouldn’t have to experience these things if sin wasn’t around. But since we do, our only right response is to look to the Savior, the only One worthy of making it right. Throw off your grave clothes, and run to the Savior today. He’s our only hope.

33 When Jesus saw her weeping and saw the other people wailing with her, a deep anger welled up within Him, and He was deeply troubled. 34 “Where have you put him?” He asked them.They told Him, “Lord, come and see.” 35 Then Jesus wept. 36 The people who were standing nearby said, “See how much He loved him!” 37 But some said, “This man healed a blind man. Couldn’t He have kept Lazarus from dying?”38 Jesus was still angry as He arrived at the tomb, a cave with a stone rolled across its entrance. 39 “Roll the stone aside,” Jesus told them.But Martha, the dead man’s sister, protested, “Lord, he has been dead for four days. The smell will be terrible.”40 Jesus responded, “Didn’t I tell you that you would see God’s glory if you believe?” 41 So they rolled the stone aside. Then Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, thank You for hearing Me. 42 You always hear Me, but I said it out loud for the sake of all these people standing here, so that they will believe You sent Me.”43 Then Jesus shouted, “Lazarus, come out!”44 And the dead man came out, his hands and feet bound in graveclothes, his face wrapped in a headcloth. Jesus told them, “Unwrap him and let him go!” John 11:33-44

Invites Disaster….

Any time we put our faith in anything other than God, Himself, we invite disaster and disappointment into our lives. Nothing, I mean nothing, was ever meant to take the place of God in our lives. There is no other alternative than to place our faith in Him. Yet we try every single day. And look where it gets us?

anyone who trusts in high walls invites disaster. Proverbs 17:19c

Fear Success In Things That Don’t Matter To God….

“Life without God is meaningless”. These are not my words, they are King Solomon’s words. According to the Bible, King Solomon was wiser than any other king in earth. Yet when you read the book of Ecclesiastes, you learn how miserable he was throughout the majority of his life. He violated God’s standards. He had over 700 wives, that in and of itself could drive a man to madness. He gathered horses, which God told the kings to never do. Solomon was paid a billion dollars annually from all the tribute money from the surrounding areas. With all of this, he didn’t find purpose and meaning. It’s was all “chasing after the wind”. So what does all of this prove? You can have success, fame, riches, and self-pleasure, but without God, it’s only temporary. It doesn’t last. It won’t deliver on the promises that it makes. God is the Fulfiller and Sustainer of life. The joy and peace He brings suffices and sustains our deepest desires to be significant. I think we all should adopt the kind of attitude that comes from this quote, “I do not fear failure, rather I fear success in things that don’t matter to God”. Solomon knew this, yet it took him an entire lifetime to figure out what he knew to be true early on in his life. Take his example and allow it to steer you in the direction he realized at the end of his life, NOW. Save yourself some self-inflicted pain, pursue God today, and every day. It’s a decision you won’t regret.

23 So King Solomon became richer and wiser than any other king on earth. 1 Kings 10:23

Born For A Reason…

Do you ever think you were born for a reason? Do you ever think all the trials and tribulations that you’ve experienced, all the adversity, and all the things that have shaped your character have made you for a specific reason? You were born into the faith because God chose you. The reason He chose you is because He knows you’ll be faithful to Him. And that faithfulness will be used to help out another brother in need someday. You were born to help another brother’s need, and thus bring God the glory He deserves. Today seek out those in need, The need to hear the gospel, the need to know that God loves them, and to help someone in need that has lost hope. You were born for such a time as this.

17 A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need. Proverbs 17:17

Incredibly Mind-Boggling….

The irony or foreknowledge that God weaves in His mysterious ways into the minds of His faithful followers is incredibly mind-boggling. Here in 1 Kings chapter 8, we read of Solomon dedicating the Temple he just completed. In his prayer of dedication, Solomon asks God to forgive in times of straying. He even gives a detailed situation of exile. How could Solomon have known about Israel’s exile, about their future captivity? Did God reveal it to him? Was he so wise he that he could see the future? Was his wisdom so great that he knew human nature so well, it was just a matter of time for the Israelites to rebel? Did he know God so well, the future was easier to predict? Who knows? God did and does till this day. Solomon’s wisdom came straight from God. It was his dedication to being fully committed to serve God that this wisdom came to him. I find myself knowing God better, and understanding people and situations more in-depth when I start my day with God, reading His Word. Day after day leads to week after week, then month after month, and year after year. God becomes part of your everyday life. His truth, His Grace, His mercy, and His discernment become weaved within the fabric of your being. I may never be like Solomon, and contain all of his wisdom, but drawing close to God certainly helps me navigate through the mountain tops and valleys of my own life. It helps the world and all of its happenings make better sense. I wouldn’t want it any other way. I see myself as God intended, and He is pleased knowing my heart is fighting my sinful nature because of Him.

46 “If they sin against You–and who has never sinned?–You might become angry with them and let their enemies conquer them and take them captive to their land far away or near. 47 But in that land of exile, they might turn to You in repentance and pray, ‘We have sinned, done evil, and acted wickedly.’ 48 If they turn to You with their whole heart and soul in the land of their enemies and pray toward the land You gave to their ancestors–toward this city You have chosen, and toward this Temple I have built to honor Your name–49 then hear their prayers and their petition from heaven where You live, and uphold their cause. 50 Forgive Your people who have sinned against You. Forgive all the offenses they have committed against You. Make their captors merciful to them, 51 for they are Your people–Your special possession–whom You brought out of the iron-smelting furnace of Egypt. 1 Kings 8:46-51

Security….

Knowing that I am secure in Christ Jesus has no greater effect on my significance, my self-worth, and my security than any and all things/self-efforts combined. Knowing there is no one more powerful than God, is very comforting. If God promises to take care of us, and never allow someone to snatch us out of His hand, then we need to bank our faith on His promise. Knowing we are valued, loved, and eternally secure in Him is the greatest feeling in the world. Knowing this is what makes believers different from everyone else in this life. It’s what empowers us with patience, tolerance, and resolve to carry on and endure the happenings in life. It’s what helps us through the rough times, enjoy the goods times even more, and keeps our emotions on an even keel when boredom and monotony set in. It’s the secret of the Christian life that can’t fully be explained. It’s what balances out our pride with humility, and our selfishness with love. Are you secure in your relationship with God? Do you know you are secure? Ask Him today to give you evidence of this great promise of His. You’ll never forget it when He does. Now that’s true security that the world can’t give.

22 It was now winter, and Jesus was in Jerusalem at the time of Hanukkah, the Festival of Dedication. 23 He was in the Temple, walking through the section known as Solomon’s Colonnade. 24 The people surrounded Him and asked, “How long are You going to keep us in suspense? If You are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”25 Jesus replied, “I have already told you, and you don’t believe Me. The proof is the work I do in My Father’s name. 26 But you don’t believe Me because you are not My sheep.27 My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them away from Me,29 for My Father has given them to Me, and He is more powerful than anyone else. No one can snatch them from the Father’s hand.30 The Father and I are one.” John 10:22-30

Whose Voice Do You Listen To?

Whose voice do you listen to? No matter what you believe about life, everyone listens to voices. Some listen to God’s voice, though they have to train themselves first to recognize it, then discipline themselves to obey it. While others listen to their own voice. And even though it may seem right to them, it does not lead them down the right path (Prov 14:12). Then there are those that listen to every voice out there (except God’s voice), being tossed to and fro on the waves of worldly desires. They spend all their time trying to feel good or gain significance from others. This is the worst of the voices to listen to because their is no stability in it; it’s constantly changing. Whatever is popular is always the prominent voice here. Right and wrong don’t exist with popularity, at least it’s not the determining factor. When you learn to recognize and obey (follow) the voice of the True Shepherd, you’re led towards greener pastures. You’re led to salvation. You can freely come and go. Most importantly, you have the Truth inside of you. The Truth allows you to discern right from wrong. What should be from what shouldn’t. It allows you to rest at night because you have true peace. And when you have the Truth, it sets you free from the temptations and pull of those worldly voices leading you away from the Savior. The voice you listen to determines everything. Choose wisely, otherwise you’re only fooling yourself. You can only pretend for so long.

1 “I tell you the truth, anyone who sneaks over the wall of a sheepfold, rather than going through the gate, must surely be a thief and a robber!2 But the one who enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep.3 The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep recognize his voice and come to him. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out.4 After he has gathered his own flock, he walks ahead of them, and they follow him because they know his voice.5 They won’t follow a stranger; they will run from him because they don’t know his voice.”6 Those who heard Jesus use this illustration didn’t understand what He meant, 7 so He explained it to them: “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who came before Me were thieves and robbers. But the true sheep did not listen to them.9 Yes, I am the gate. Those who come in through Me will be saved. They will come and go freely and will find good pastures.10 The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life.11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices His life for the sheep.12 A hired hand will run when he sees a wolf coming. He will abandon the sheep because they don’t belong to him and he isn’t their shepherd. And so the wolf attacks them and scatters the flock.13 The hired hand runs away because he’s working only for the money and doesn’t really care about the sheep.14 “I am the good shepherd; I know My own sheep, and they know Me,15 just as My Father knows Me and I know the Father. So I sacrifice My life for the sheep.16 I have other sheep, too, that are not in this sheepfold. I must bring them also. They will listen to My voice, and there will be one flock with one shepherd.17 “The Father loves Me because I sacrifice My life so I may take it back again.18 No one can take My life from Me. I sacrifice it voluntarily. For I have the authority to lay it down when I want to and also to take it up again. For this is what My Father has commanded.”19 When He said these things, the people were again divided in their opinions about Him. 20 Some said, “He’s demon possessed and out of His mind. Why listen to a man like that?” 21 Others said, “This doesn’t sound like a man possessed by a demon! Can a demon open the eyes of the blind?” John 10:1-21

Why Certain Things Bother Us….

Have you ever wondered why certain things bother you? Like when a guilty person is acquitted. Or when good is repaid with evil. Or being around someone who starts fights. The reason you feel bothered is because these behaviors bother God. These behaviors violate God’s character. The closer you become to God, you’ll find the things that bother you, are the things that bother Him. God is just, and He won’t sit back and allow evil to reign for long. And neither should we.

13 If you repay good with evil, evil will never leave your house. 14 Starting a quarrel is like opening a floodgate, so stop before a dispute breaks out. 15 Acquitting the guilty and condemning the innocent–both are detestable to the Lord. Proverbs 17:13-15

Better Off Walking Away….

The Bible tells us that when you come across a fool, you’re better off walking away. It gives the example of being safer when standing between a mother bear and her cub, than when you confront a fool caught in his foolishness. If you know anything about nature, you know that you never, ever, ever, want to be caught in between a mother bear and her cubs. It’s a death sentence. She will fight to the death to defend her off-spring. It is not safe. But the Bible says it’s safer than trying to confront a fool. Save yourself some pain, the next time you recognize a fool caught in his foolishness, slowly back away, and when you reach a safe distance, run as fast as you can in the opposite direction. No point in wasting your breath, your time, or your efforts on an impossible task. If the Bible uses this analogy, take it to heart and apply it to your life.

12 It is safer to meet a bear robbed of her cubs than to confront a fool caught in foolishness. Proverbs 17:12

Solomon’s Response To Not Valuing Life….

Here’s a story in the Bible that displays this truth: true love promotes life. In today’s political realm, Abortion is a hot button issue. I think this story of Solomon’s wisdom clearly exposes what Abortion is all about. You either love your baby/child more, or you love yourself more. It’s crystal clear. Solomon exposed the mother of the dead child’s type of love when he proposed his solution. A real, loving mother wants her child to live regardless if it’s with her or with another, because love is selfless and it always gives us a choice. True love doesn’t demand its own way (1 Cor 13). The mother of the dead child showed her true intent by agreeing with Solomon and wanting him to kill the child, for misery loves company. This story reveals the truth about life: love always promotes life, and it’s willing to sacrifice itself in order to give it. Those that support and promote abortion are spiritually blind to this truth. Pray and ask God to use you today, to shine this truth into a life in desperate need of hearing it. Extend God’s love to them, it’s the only answer for a dark and deceived world. Point someone to Jesus today. It will help set them free.

16 Some time later two prostitutes came to the king to have an argument settled. 17 “Please, my lord,” one of them began, “this woman and I live in the same house. I gave birth to a baby while she was with me in the house. 18 Three days later this woman also had a baby. We were alone; there were only two of us in the house.19 “But her baby died during the night when she rolled over on it. 20 Then she got up in the night and took my son from beside me while I was asleep. She laid her dead child in my arms and took mine to sleep beside her. 21 And in the morning when I tried to nurse my son, he was dead! But when I looked more closely in the morning light, I saw that it wasn’t my son at all.”22 Then the other woman interrupted, “It certainly was your son, and the living child is mine.”“No,” the first woman said, “the living child is mine, and the dead one is yours.” And so they argued back and forth before the king.23 Then the king said, “Let’s get the facts straight. Both of you claim the living child is yours, and each says that the dead one belongs to the other. 24 All right, bring me a sword.” So a sword was brought to the king.25 Then he said, “Cut the living child in two, and give half to one woman and half to the other!”26 Then the woman who was the real mother of the living child, and who loved him very much, cried out, “Oh no, my lord! Give her the child–please do not kill him!”But the other woman said, “All right, he will be neither yours nor mine; divide him between us!”27 Then the king said, “Do not kill the child, but give him to the woman who wants him to live, for she is his mother!”28 When all Israel heard the king’s decision, the people were in awe of the king, for they saw the wisdom God had given him for rendering justice. 1 Kings 3:16-28

When Solomon Met God In A Dream….

When Solomon met God in a dream, God’s words revealed His true character. Not only that, but God also revealed to us what we should desire for ourselves, wisdom. Wisdom can become a prideful issue (if we hoard it), but Solomon’s request was that of selfless pursuit of justice, in order to govern and lead God’s chosen people. As God tells him, Solomon could’ve asked for riches, for fame, a long life, or the death of his enemies, but instead humbled himself and asked for wisdom with justice. If you really think about this, God knows human nature. He knows our nature and the temptations of the devil. People have always pursued fame, fortune, revenge, and good health since the Fall in the garden. When Solomon didn’t ask for any of these, God was pleased. It reinforced God’s view, that when we focus on the most important things in life (God and people), we “get it”, we know our place. We know Who’s in charge and Who it is we are accountable. Solomon was the wisest man to ever live, and yet he was one of the most miserable ones as well. Why? Because he knew the truth, but did a poor job following it throughout his life. Solomon tried all the ways the “world tells us to try in order to make us happy”. He discovered they all fail. They all fail to deliver the hyped up promises. If you don’t believe me, read the book of Ecclesiastes, particularly the last chapter. God wants us to be loyal to Him and to others. He wants us to be selfless (which is exactly what love is). He wants us to pursue knowing Him, not trying to fill ourselves with fleeting, transient things. God knows exactly what fills a man’s heart and satisfies. And that is God alone. When a man rejects the Gospel, he guarantees himself one of the two outcomes: it will lead him to sadness, or to wrath. Look at the world today, do you see a lot of sadness and anger? There’s a reason why, and now that you know it’s cause, what are you going to do about it? Ask God for wisdom. And when you receive it, put it to good use, rescuing lost souls.

5 That night the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream, and God said, “What do you want? Ask, and I will give it to you!”6 Solomon replied, “You showed faithful love to Your servant my father, David, because he was honest and true and faithful to You. And You have continued Your faithful love to him today by giving him a son to sit on his throne.7 “Now, O Lord my God, You have made me king instead of my father, David, but I am like a little child who doesn’t know his way around. 8 And here I am in the midst of Your own chosen people, a nation so great and numerous they cannot be counted! 9 Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern Your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of Yours?”10 The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for wisdom. 11 So God replied, “Because you have asked for wisdom in governing My people with justice and have not asked for a long life or wealth or the death of your enemies–12 I will give you what you asked for! I will give you a wise and understanding heart such as no one else has had or ever will have! 13 And I will also give you what you did not ask for–riches and fame! No other king in all the world will be compared to you for the rest of your life! 14 And if you follow Me and obey My decrees and My commands as your father, David, did, I will give you a long life.”15 Then Solomon woke up and realized it had been a dream. He returned to Jerusalem and stood before the Ark of the Lord’s Covenant, where he sacrificed burnt offerings and peace offerings. Then he invited all his officials to a great banquet. 1 Kings 3:5-15

What We Value Most Shows….

I’ve read this story many times, and I’ve always thought it was bizarre. Why would David request to drink from the well in Bethlehem? Why would His 3 mightiest warriors risk their life for a cup of water? Why would David refuse to drink it, dishonoring his greatest warriors the honor due them? It all doesn’t make sense, thinking about it from a worldly perspective, but then I think a little deeper into the story (with spiritual eyes). The water was just that, water. It was of no value unless you were dying of thirst. Since David’s 3 mightiest warriors risked their lives to obtain it, its value was that of 3 brave, loyal soldiers lives. That meant it’s value went from nothing to invaluable. And since it was the most valuable to David, he decided to offer it to the Lord as a liquid offering. This didn’t dishonor his men’s effort, it showed them what kind of person they risked their lives for. Well, in actuality these mighty warriors already knew what kind of man David was, one after God’s own heart. This made their journey and David’s act of honoring God even more special. It was so special that it is written down for us to read almost 3,000 years later. When you honor God by giving your best, what you value most, it shows Him and others what you value most, Him. When God requires the Israelites to dedicate their firstborn, and give the (best) first fruits of their harvest, and to teach His Word to their children, it shows God must be first. Even when Jesus went through the Temple with a whip chasing out all of the money changers and animals, this showed that people weren’t giving God their best, they were purchasing mediocre from someone else trying to make a buck. David’s example here clearly shows us what a heart for God truly looks like. Does your best look like this? If not, why not? God deserves our best.

13 Once during the harvest, when David was at the cave of Adullam, the Philistine army was camped in the valley of Rephaim. The Three (who were among the Thirty–an elite group among David’s fighting men) went down to meet him there. 14 David was staying in the stronghold at the time, and a Philistine detachment had occupied the town of Bethlehem.15 David remarked longingly to his men, “Oh, how I would love some of that good water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem.” 16 So the Three broke through the Philistine lines, drew some water from the well by the gate in Bethlehem, and brought it back to David. But he refused to drink it. Instead, he poured it out as an offering to the Lord. 17 “The Lord forbid that I should drink this!” he exclaimed. “This water is as precious as the blood of these men who risked their lives to bring it to me.” So David did not drink it. These are examples of the exploits of the Three. 2 Samuel 23:13-17

Imitating Our Real Father….

You can’t love God and deny Jesus at the same time. You’re only pretending to love if you do. Habitual lying tends to blind us from discerning truth.

31 Jesus said to the people who believed in Him, “You are truly My disciples if you remain faithful to My teachings. 32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”33 “But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do You mean, ‘You will be set free’?”34 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. 35 A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever.36 So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.37 Yes, I realize that you are descendants of Abraham. And yet some of you are trying to kill Me because there’s no room in your hearts for My message.38 I am telling you what I saw when I was with My Father. But you are following the advice of your father.”39 “Our father is Abraham!” they declared.“No,” Jesus replied, “for if you were really the children of Abraham, you would follow his example. 40 Instead, you are trying to kill Me because I told you the truth, which I heard from God. Abraham never did such a thing.41 No, you are imitating your real father.”They replied, “We aren’t illegitimate children! God Himself is our true Father.”42 Jesus told them, “If God were your Father, you would love Me, because I have come to you from God. I am not here on My own, but He sent Me. 43 Why can’t you understand what I am saying? It’s because you can’t even hear Me!44 For you are the children of your father the devil, and you love to do the evil things he does. He was a murderer from the beginning. He has always hated the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, it is consistent with his character; for he is a liar and the father of lies.45 So when I tell the truth, you just naturally don’t believe Me!46 Which of you can truthfully accuse Me of sin? And since I am telling you the truth, why don’t you believe Me?47 Anyone who belongs to God listens gladly to the words of God. But you don’t listen because you don’t belong to God.” John 8:31-47

No Room In Your Heart….

Jesus sets us free from the power of sin, legalism, conformity, and any thing else not of God. If you’re a slave to sin, it’s because there’s no room in your heart for the Gospel.

31 Jesus said to the people who believed in Him, “You are truly My disciples if you remain faithful to My teachings. 32 And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”33 “But we are descendants of Abraham,” they said. “We have never been slaves to anyone. What do You mean, ‘You will be set free’?”34 Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. 35 A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever.36 So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.37 Yes, I realize that you are descendants of Abraham. And yet some of you are trying to kill Me because there’s no room in your hearts for My message.38 I am telling you what I saw when I was with My Father. But you are following the advice of your father.” John 8:31-38

Sun-Scorched Land….

If you’ve ever questioned God’s justice, read Psalm 68. God fathers the fatherless. He defends widows. He places the lonely in families. Does this sound like a self-centered, power-seeking tyrant that you hear some describe God? These verses actually sound like a just judge doing his job. For those seeing Him as the former, get off the throne designed for God alone. You were never meant to sit in His seat. Maybe then your animosity towards God may be taken away with the wind. God is just, trust Him and you will see, until you do, you better get acclimated to your environment in a sun-scorched land.

5 Father to the fatherless, defender of widows–this is God, whose dwelling is holy.6 God places the lonely in families;He sets the prisoners free and gives them joy.But He makes the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land. Psalms 68:5-6

Why Don’t We Recognize It?

If people ever ask you the question, “why doesn’t God reveal Himself to all of us?”, you can tell them, He does. The question really should be, “Why don’t we recognize it when He does?” The answer to that question can be found in 2 Samuel 22. David is singing a song to God praising Him for all that He does. Somethings we never recognize. So here’s a chance to acknowledge it. God opens the spiritual eyes of those who are faithful, to those with integrity, and to the pure. But to the wicked, He shows Himself hostile. The reason we don’t always see God’s presence in our mist is directly due to the status of our hearts. When we are focused on ourselves (selfishness), this mysterious vapor veils our eyes. It’s like waking up from a deep, complex-dream sleep and opening our eyes for the first time. The images you first see aren’t clear, and we have no clue where we are. It takes a few seconds to orient our cognitive skills, in order to recognize where we are. That’s what it’s like when we aren’t in tune with God. Sin and evil thoughts fill our minds, and if they go unchecked, havoc follows. Integrity, faithfulness, and purity are all lifestyle related. It’s a way you live. The consistency of always seeing life from God’s perspective is what integrity, purity, and faithfulness are all about. The consistency of living a life like this prevents, the gunk (eye hockey) and the temporary disorientation from consistently keeping you in a state of spiritual blindness. The reason why people don’t recognize God’s presence has more to do with our selfishness than His absence. How we view God affects every aspect of our lives, especially our behavior.

26 “To the faithful you show Yourself faithful;to those with integrity you show integrity.27 To the pure you show Yourself pure,but to the wicked you show Yourself hostile.28 You rescue the humble,but Your eyes watch the proud and humiliate them.29 O Lord, you are my lamp.The Lord lights up my darkness.30 In Your strength I can crush an army;with my God I can scale any wall. 31 “God’s way is perfect.All the Lord’s promises prove true.He is a shield for all who look to Him for protection. 2 Samuel 22:26-31

Contentment Starts And Ends With….

If you want a biblical example of humility, look no further than Mephibosheth. He was the grandson of King Saul, and son of Jonathan. He had been taken in by King David (which is unheard of) because of an oath he made with Jonathan (before his death). As you read from today passage, ask yourself, is this what true humility looks like? If so, what circumstances brought about this kind of humility? It’s authenticity cannot be denied. Mephibosheth was willing to die, even though it was because he was deceived. And even then, he was willing to give up the land David was giving him, because his relationship with David was more important to him. If this doesn’t motivate you to deepen your walk with God, to be on fire for His purposes, maybe your wood is wet. True humility sets your priorities. And it also values that which cannot be bought or sold. Mephibosheth’s heart was in the right place, and he knew where his true treasure could be found. Contentment in this world starts and ends with the right attitude, and only God knows your treasure.

24 Now Mephibosheth, Saul’s grandson, came down from Jerusalem to meet the king. He had not cared for his feet, trimmed his beard, or washed his clothes since the day the king left Jerusalem. 25 “Why didn’t you come with me, Mephibosheth?” the king asked him.26 Mephibosheth replied, “My lord the king, my servant Ziba deceived me. I told him, ‘Saddle my donkey so I can go with the king.’ For as you know I am crippled. 27 Ziba has slandered me by saying that I refused to come. But I know that my lord the king is like an angel of God, so do what you think is best. 28 All my relatives and I could expect only death from you, my lord, but instead you have honored me by allowing me to eat at your own table! What more can I ask?”29 “You’ve said enough,” David replied. “I’ve decided that you and Ziba will divide your land equally between you.”30 “Give him all of it,” Mephibosheth said. “I am content just to have you safely back again, my lord the king!” 2 Samuel 19:24-30

Granting An Undeserved Pardon….

This may seem trivial, but it is a clear example of grace, granting an undeserved soul a pardon. How often do you see “real life” examples of grace on display? Here David pardons (extends grace) Shimei. Shimei was the one who cursed David as he fled Jerusalem when Absolam revolted. David’s men wanted to kill him, there on the spot. David refused. Here, as David returns to Jerusalem, Shimei rushes down with a repentive, contrite heart, begging David to forgive him. Again, David’s men want to kill him, and again David extends grace. What an example of extending grace to those who don’t deserve it. Just another reminder that we all are like Shimei. We have sinned against God, and He has extended His grace to us. The only question you should really be asking yourself is this: do you receive God’s gift of grace with the only responsible and right reaction? Do you live your life with gratitude towards God? If so, good for you. Keep on pursuing your Maker. If not, why not?

As the king was about to cross the river, Shimei fell down before him. 19 “My lord the king, please forgive me,” he pleaded. “Forget the terrible thing your servant did when you left Jerusalem. May the king put it out of his mind. 20 I know how much I sinned. That is why I have come here today, the very first person in all Israel to greet my lord the king.”21 Then Abishai son of Zeruiah said, “Shimei should die, for he cursed the Lord’s anointed king!”22 “Who asked your opinion, you sons of Zeruiah!” David exclaimed. “Why have you become my adversary today? This is not a day for execution but for celebration! Today I am once again the king of Israel!” 23 Then, turning to Shimei, David vowed, “Your life will be spared.” 2 Samuel 19:18c-23

In Need Of That Comfort….

David may have been a “man after God’s own heart”, but he certainly wasn’t flawless. Numerous times he had to be told what he didn’t want to hear. Nathan the prophet confronted him about the Bathsheba incident. And here we have Joab confronting him about his reacting to his son Absalom’s death. Each time, David had to hear tough words from those close to him. Do you ever have the courage to tell people what they need to hear instead of what they want to hear, the truth? Do you do it in a respectful and God-honoring way? Do you like to hear truthful words when you’re not walking with God closely? Do you react and respond like David did? I don’t know exactly where I fit on this line of “telling and receiving truth” at times when I don’t expect it, but I do know that when I’m pursuing God daily, they are much easier to except. Maybe that’s why David reacted responsibly. Ask God to draw near to you today; you just might be in need of that comfort.

Word soon reached Joab that the king was weeping and mourning for Absalom. 2 As all the people heard of the king’s deep grief for his son, the joy of that day’s victory was turned into deep sadness. 3 They crept back into the town that day as though they were ashamed and had deserted in battle. 4 The king covered his face with his hands and kept on crying, “O my son Absalom! O Absalom, my son, my son!”5 Then Joab went to the king’s room and said to him, “We saved your life today and the lives of your sons, your daughters, and your wives and concubines. Yet you act like this, making us feel ashamed of ourselves. 6 You seem to love those who hate you and hate those who love you. You have made it clear today that your commanders and troops mean nothing to you. It seems that if Absalom had lived and all of us had died, you would be pleased. 7 Now go out there and congratulate your troops, for I swear by the Lord that if you don’t go out, not a single one of them will remain here tonight. Then you will be worse off than ever before.”8 So the king went out and took his seat at the town gate, and as the news spread throughout the town that he was there, everyone went to him. 2 Samuel 19:1-8a

When Push Comes To Shove….

When push comes to shove do you stand for truth? Do you speak truth regardless of who’s in the room? Do you stand up to those who speak lies? Who deceive others with “made up” information purposely promoting their secret agendas? Nicodemus asked a bold question when the religious leaders wanted to arrest Jesus. Where did he get the courage to risk his livelihood by asking the question? Read John chapter 3; you’ll find the answer. When you’ve experienced the touch of the Great Physician, it changes you forever. Nicodemus may not of fully stood up to the religious leaders in preventing Jesus’ ultimate condemnation, but he did find courage to speak truth when he was convicted. And after Jesus had died and was resurrected, I’m certain Nicodemus’ faith lead him to stand up even more in preaching the Gospel. I’m certain of that. When You experience God firsthand, you cannot stay silent. It’s like fire in your bones. You have to let it out, or you’ll burn up on the inside. Do you have this fire? Do you speak truth? Even if it risks what’s important to you? Remember, the truth exposes lies. The truth sets us free, free from all the corruption and deception Satan tries to keep us under his control.

50 Then Nicodemus, the leader who had met with Jesus earlier, spoke up. 51 “Is it legal to convict a man before he is given a hearing?” he asked.52 They replied, “Are you from Galilee, too? Search the Scriptures and see for yourself–no prophet ever comes from Galilee!” John 7:50-52

Rejecting God In This Life…..

The words of Jesus here in John chapter 7 only solidify the concept of rejecting God in this life prevents you from experiencing Him in the next life (Heaven). God doesn’t send people to Hell, people choose to go to Hell by rejecting God. Answer this one question: if God is loving, then wouldn’t it be contradictory if God forces those people against their own will to be with Him in Heaven when they rejected Him while living here on earth (not wanting to be with Him)? What changes in a person who denies and rejects God, that at death, would convert their hatred into love for Him? Jesus clearly says here that those who do not believe cannot go to where He is going (at His Fathers right Hand in Heaven). Faith is God’s way of separating the sheep from the goats. Faith reveals what’s on the inside of us. It’s a crystal clear picture of our heart. Faith strips away all the hang ups, all the pretentiousness, and reveals the priorities of our lives. God knows this, it’s why we are to come to Him through faith. It’s the doorway to Heaven. Those that refuse it, cannot enter through the only entrance into Heaven. There’s no confusion about it. It’s that simple. Maybe people need to read the Bible more, and ask themselves the simple, but hard questions. It’s not until then that salvation is possible, for unwillingness to believe translates into spiritual blindness (the inability to know God). Pursue God, you’ll learn that He’s been pursuing you from the beginning. But He won’t force Himself upon you (like you hear haters say). Love never demands it’s own way.

33 But Jesus told them, “I will be with you only a little longer. Then I will return to the One who sent Me. 34 You will search for Me but not find Me. And you cannot go where I am going.”35 The Jewish leaders were puzzled by this statement. “Where is He planning to go?” they asked. “Is He thinking of leaving the country and going to the Jews in other lands? Maybe He will even teach the Greeks! 36 What does He mean when He says, ‘You will search for Me but not find Me,’ and ‘You cannot go where I am going’?” John 7:33-36

Honesty In Our Petition….

If praying to God involves being honest, then our prayers need always to contain confession of sin. For it’s this honesty in our petition that God sees the sincerity in our hearts.

16 Come and listen, all you who fear God, and I will tell you what He did for me.17 For I cried out to Him for help, praising Him as I spoke.18 If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.19 But God did listen! He paid attention to my prayer. 20 Praise God, who did not ignore my prayer or withdraw His unfailing love from me. Psalms 66:16-20

Make It Personal…

Here’s s passage to help you understand that the Christian faith is a personal one, a journey of discover based on your individual desire to know God. You can believe what people say or you can do the research, the hard work, and find out for yourself. A true, sincere pursuit of God involves spending time reading His Word, researching what you don’t understand. This hard work shows God the true condition of your heart. It shows Him He is important. Once you do the hard work, deeper intimacy with Him follows. If I could give the Bible and it’s message a nickname, I would call it, “THE TRUTH SETS YOU FREE WHEN YOU MAKE IT YOUR OWN”. Take it personally, God would have it no other way.

25 Some of the people who lived in Jerusalem started to ask each other, “Isn’t this the man they are trying to kill? 26 But here He is, speaking in public, and they say nothing to Him. Could our leaders possibly believe that He is the Messiah? 27 But how could He be? For we know where this man comes from. When the Messiah comes, He will simply appear; no one will know where He comes from.” John 7:25-27

Willingness Breeds Understanding….

It’s only when you choose to want to do the will of God, that you begin to understand it. God doesn’t force His will on you. It’s your choice to choose. The second you show Him you are willing to accept His authority, understanding will follow. It’s all about a sincere heart (attitude) and willingness to obey. When we choose to give up our freewill in order to do His will, our spiritual insight begins to grow exponentially. It opens the door to the kind of relationship He intended us to have with Him.

16 So Jesus told them, “My message is not My own; it comes from God who sent Me. 17 Anyone who wants to do the will of God will know whether My teaching is from God or is merely My own.18 Those who speak for themselves want glory only for themselves, but a person who seeks to honor the one who sent him speaks truth, not lies.19 Moses gave you the law, but none of you obeys it! In fact, you are trying to kill Me.” John 7:16-19

Only Part Of The Battle….

Believing in God is only part of the battle. It’s what you do about it that makes all the difference in the world. You either fear God or fear man. You can’t do both. You must choose and take a side. Who you fear most shows the world where your true allegiance is. And more importantly, it drives your behavior. I would rather stand with God and be condemned by the world, than stand with the world and be condemned by God. It’s our choice, not anyone else’s to make. Weigh the cost before you chose W(w)ho to follow, and choose wisely.

10 But after His brothers left for the festival, Jesus also went, though secretly, staying out of public view. 11 The Jewish leaders tried to find Him at the festival and kept asking if anyone had seen Him. 12 There was a lot of grumbling about Him among the crowds. Some argued, “He’s a good man,” but others said, “He’s nothing but a fraud who deceives the people.” 13 But no one had the courage to speak favorably about Him in public, for they were afraid of getting in trouble with the Jewish leaders. John 7:10-13

All Peace And No Condemnation….

For those who continue to paint Jesus into a “all peace and no condemnation” type of leader, what is your response to the statement He makes here in John chapter 7 verse 7? “Jesus never judged” is the biggest lie you’ll ever hear about the Christian faith. Read it for yourself. The only way you won’t accept this label Satan has created as being false is if you don’t want to accept it. If you’d rather continue to follow a made up Jesus to suit your own desires, then touché. Just remember, only Jesus of Nazareth, the One Who was crucified on the cross, and three days later was resurrected, is the only One Who can save you, making you right with God. And you can’t place labels on what you pretend to know.

6 Jesus replied, “Now is not the right time for Me to go, but you can go anytime. 7 The world can’t hate you, but it does hate Me because I accuse it of doing evil.8 You go on. I’m not going to this festival, because My time has not yet come.”9 After saying these things, Jesus remained in Galilee. John 7:6-9

24 Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly.” John 7:24

Ever Been Ridiculed?

Have you ever been ridiculed? Maybe even by your own family? How did you feel? Did you like it? Did you just want to escape from the world? Jesus knows exactly what that is like. Why not go to the One Who can sympathize with you? To the One Who knows you better than you know yourself? He is the only One Who can bring real peace, healing, and significance to life.

1 After this, Jesus traveled around Galilee. He wanted to stay out of Judea, where the Jewish leaders were plotting His death. 2 But soon it was time for the Jewish Festival of Shelters, 3 and Jesus’ brothers said to Him, “Leave here and go to Judea, where Your followers can see Your miracles! 4 You can’t become famous if You hide like this! If You can do such wonderful things, show Yourself to the world!” 5 For even His brothers didn’t believe in Him. John 7:1-5

Only Nice Gestures….

Human effort without God accomplishes nothing eternally. It may accomplish earthly awards and accolades, but as far as eternity is concerned, these worldly accomplishments are charred carbon and smoke (for they all will burn up in the end). If Jesus isn’t the focus of your life, and you are not seeking Him daily, all your efforts are only nice gestures. Flattery gets us no where. If your goal is to reach lost souls by pointing them to Jesus, then you must be “plugged into the Source”. Anything less will be a “temporary high” lasting only as long as your attention span will allow. The Spirit alone gives eternal life, nothing else can.

60 Many of His disciples said, “This is very hard to understand. How can anyone accept it?”61 Jesus was aware that His disciples were complaining, so He said to them, “Does this offend you? 62 Then what will you think if you see the Son of Man ascend to heaven again?63 The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life.64 But some of you do not believe Me.” (For Jesus knew from the beginning which ones didn’t believe, and He knew who would betray Him.) 65 Then He said, “That is why I said that people can’t come to Me unless the Father gives them to Me.”66 At this point many of His disciples turned away and deserted Him. 67 Then Jesus turned to the Twelve and asked, “Are you also going to leave?”68 Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words that give eternal life. 69 We believe, and we know You are the Holy One of God.”70 Then Jesus said, “I chose the twelve of you, but one is a devil.” 71 He was speaking of Judas, son of Simon Iscariot, one of the Twelve, who would later betray Him. John 6:60-71

One Seat, Not Tailored For Your…..

No matter what people think about God or try to tell me about Him, I know His ways are best. He is my Creator and Lord. Without Him life is a long journey down a doomed eternal path. When we think we have it all “figured out”, be careful, a fall is in your future. It’s just a matter of time until you see the error in your ways. Adversity is good for us; it motivates and pushes us on. Going without, may seem rough to you, but the truth is, an empty stomach drives us on to work, earn money, so we can fill it later on. Never forget God is in control, and we are not. His throne has only one seat, and it’s not tailored to fit your derrière.

25 There is a path before each person that seems right, but it ends in death. 26 It is good for workers to have an appetite; an empty stomach drives them on. Proverbs 16:25-26

Easy To Forget What’s Important…..

If you’re not pursuing God daily, in His Word, it’s easy to forget what’s important. And it’s even easier to be deceived. What you “think” might be good advice just might be the opposite of what God wants from you, and spell your doom. Seek God out today. Ask Him for discernment in all you do.

20 Then Absalom turned to Ahithophel and asked him, “What should I do next?”21 Ahithophel told him, “Go and sleep with your father’s concubines, for he has left them here to look after the palace. Then all Israel will know that you have insulted your father beyond hope of reconciliation, and they will throw their support to you.” 22 So they set up a tent on the palace roof where everyone could see it, and Absalom went in and had sex with his father’s concubines.23 Absalom followed Ahithophel’s advice, just as David had done. For every word Ahithophel spoke seemed as wise as though it had come directly from the mouth of God. 2 Samuel 16:20-23