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My Manna
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Re: My Manna
Admin Mon 03 Feb 2020, 10:47 pm
God doesn’t keep office hours!
by MyManna
God doesn't keep office hours!
Behind this is a simple but important truth:
We can come to God at any time-
- because He wants our fellowship.
He welcomes us because He knows we need Him.
And He wants to help us.
No situation is beyond His concern-
- because He loves us and wants what is best for us.
Prayer is an opportunity-
- an opportunity for us to grow closer to God and seek His will for our lives.
Does this mean God wants us to lock ourselves in our rooms 24 hours a day-
- with our eyes closed and our lips constantly moving in prayer?
No!
That isn't what He commands.
Instead-
He wants us to cultivate the habit of quietly praying in our souls about everything throughout the day.
Even when you are talking with someone, you can be praying for them in your spirit.
I commend you for wanting to start each day with prayer.
But ask God to help you turn to Him in prayer all day long also-
- not just praying about your needs or the needs of others,
- but also praising and thanking Him for all He has done for us in Jesus Christ.
by MyManna
God doesn't keep office hours!
Behind this is a simple but important truth:
We can come to God at any time-
- because He wants our fellowship.
He welcomes us because He knows we need Him.
And He wants to help us.
No situation is beyond His concern-
- because He loves us and wants what is best for us.
Prayer is an opportunity-
- an opportunity for us to grow closer to God and seek His will for our lives.
Does this mean God wants us to lock ourselves in our rooms 24 hours a day-
- with our eyes closed and our lips constantly moving in prayer?
No!
That isn't what He commands.
Instead-
He wants us to cultivate the habit of quietly praying in our souls about everything throughout the day.
Even when you are talking with someone, you can be praying for them in your spirit.
I commend you for wanting to start each day with prayer.
But ask God to help you turn to Him in prayer all day long also-
- not just praying about your needs or the needs of others,
- but also praising and thanking Him for all He has done for us in Jesus Christ.
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Sat 01 Feb 2020, 10:34 pm
Dead-end street!
MyManna
"Find out what pleases the Lord" (Ephesians 5:10).
One of the greatest pains in life is attempting the impossible:
Pleasing other people!
Just think of the effort and angst we extend every day trying to get others to like or approve or affirm us.
Don't be fooled!
People-pleasing is a dead-end street!
Whether the people you crave recognition from is your boss, your parent, your friend, or someone from your past-when you position them as judge and jury over your life, you're putting yourself in bondage.
Jesus came to set you free from this painful pattern of living.
"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8:36).
Two choices that helped me turn the corner on this issue are:
Choice #1
I minimize my focus on what others think of me.
Paul faced the temptation to people-please.
Notice his response to people comparing his and Apollos' ministries in 1 Corinthians 4:3:
"But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court.
In fact, I do not even judge myself."
He minimized the weight he placed on others' opinions.
"It's a very small thing," he said.
Choice #2
I maximize my focus on what God thinks of me.
I've had to come to the place in my life where my consuming passion is to focus on God's evaluation.
Let me suggest four ways to do this:
Spend quality and quantity time with the Lord.
More time with Him will help you know and desire to do what pleases Him most.
Don't be controlled or manipulated by emotional blackmail.
Some people hold a dynamite stick in one hand and a match in the other and threaten to control you by intimidation.
Just walk away.
Limit enslaving friendships.
People who base relationships on performance, not acceptance, are never satisfied.
Limit their influence and the time you spend with them.
Get alone with the Lord on a daily basis.
And ask, "Lord, are you pleased with my life?
God is the only one who has all the facts-
- sees all the motives and
- knows why your boss is never satisfied or
- why your dad won't accept you as you are.
Let it go and focus on pleasing Him alone!
Only God's assessment of your life will matter!!
MyManna
"Find out what pleases the Lord" (Ephesians 5:10).
One of the greatest pains in life is attempting the impossible:
Pleasing other people!
Just think of the effort and angst we extend every day trying to get others to like or approve or affirm us.
Don't be fooled!
People-pleasing is a dead-end street!
Whether the people you crave recognition from is your boss, your parent, your friend, or someone from your past-when you position them as judge and jury over your life, you're putting yourself in bondage.
Jesus came to set you free from this painful pattern of living.
"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed" (John 8:36).
Two choices that helped me turn the corner on this issue are:
Choice #1
I minimize my focus on what others think of me.
Paul faced the temptation to people-please.
Notice his response to people comparing his and Apollos' ministries in 1 Corinthians 4:3:
"But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court.
In fact, I do not even judge myself."
He minimized the weight he placed on others' opinions.
"It's a very small thing," he said.
Choice #2
I maximize my focus on what God thinks of me.
I've had to come to the place in my life where my consuming passion is to focus on God's evaluation.
Let me suggest four ways to do this:
Spend quality and quantity time with the Lord.
More time with Him will help you know and desire to do what pleases Him most.
Don't be controlled or manipulated by emotional blackmail.
Some people hold a dynamite stick in one hand and a match in the other and threaten to control you by intimidation.
Just walk away.
Limit enslaving friendships.
People who base relationships on performance, not acceptance, are never satisfied.
Limit their influence and the time you spend with them.
Get alone with the Lord on a daily basis.
And ask, "Lord, are you pleased with my life?
God is the only one who has all the facts-
- sees all the motives and
- knows why your boss is never satisfied or
- why your dad won't accept you as you are.
Let it go and focus on pleasing Him alone!
Only God's assessment of your life will matter!!
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Fri 31 Jan 2020, 10:18 pm
Are you this kind of person?
Manna
"Oh, that You would bless me and enlarge my territory!" (1 Chronicles 4:10).
He is mentioned only once in a brief description in the Old Testament-
- yet what he says and what his life bespeaks could fill volumes.
He was a man whom God saw as worthy of a request that had significant consequences for him and his family.
His name was Jabez.
Here is how the Scripture describes him:
Jabez was more honorable than his brothers.
His mother had named him Jabez, saying, "I gave birth to him in pain."
Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that You would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let Your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain."
And God granted his request.1 Chronicles 4:9-10.
When you think of territory-
- you probably think of land or some area in which you have dominion.
That territory can mean personal influence and/or physical territories.
Jesus often spoke about giving responsibility-
- based on what we do with the little things first.
Jabez must have been a very responsible person.
God describes him as honorable.
Jabez must have understood what it really means to be blessed by God.
He was a man who knew what it meant to press into God and ask for God's favour with passion.
God saw the heart of this man and gave him his request.
His borders were enlarged!
The only reason God will enlarge a person's territory is that-
He knows that person will use it responsibly.
He will steward what is given in light of God's Kingdom.
God truly wants to increase our territory to have greater influence in the world around us.
Jabez must have been quite a man with incredible integrity and purity of heart.
Are you this kind of person?
Can God enlarge your territory and entrust you to use it for His purposes?
Ask God today to enlarge your territory.
Ask Him to make you the kind of man or woman who is worthy of such trust.
It cannot reach us without rails!
Manna
"When we cried out to the Lord, He heard our voice" (Numbers 20:16).
A group of businessmen were flying in an aircraft.
There was a sudden decompression.
As the plane plummeted to the ground-
- one of the men asked his friend across the aisle to pray for them.
"The last time I prayed was twenty years ago!" his friend replied.
But his business companions insisted.
"All right" he said and prayed:
"O Lord, I haven't bothered You for the last twenty years; and if You get us out of this fix, I promise You, I won't bother You for the next twenty years!"
God does not consider our prayers bothersome.
On the contrary-
He desires that our very first thought at the onset of a trial would be to come to Him for help in getting through it.
So often, we hear people say, "The only thing left to do now is pray," when in reality-
God was there all along, waiting for someone to cry out to Him and call down His power.
When you begin to wonder why the storm isn't letting up, ask yourself-
"Have I requested God's help yet?"
If the answer is "No," call to Him and watch-
- as He calms the wind and waves in your life.
Our prayers lay the track down on which God's power can come.
Like a mighty locomotive-
His power is irresistible!
But-
- it cannot reach us without rails!
Manna
"Oh, that You would bless me and enlarge my territory!" (1 Chronicles 4:10).
He is mentioned only once in a brief description in the Old Testament-
- yet what he says and what his life bespeaks could fill volumes.
He was a man whom God saw as worthy of a request that had significant consequences for him and his family.
His name was Jabez.
Here is how the Scripture describes him:
Jabez was more honorable than his brothers.
His mother had named him Jabez, saying, "I gave birth to him in pain."
Jabez cried out to the God of Israel, "Oh, that You would bless me and enlarge my territory! Let Your hand be with me, and keep me from harm so that I will be free from pain."
And God granted his request.1 Chronicles 4:9-10.
When you think of territory-
- you probably think of land or some area in which you have dominion.
That territory can mean personal influence and/or physical territories.
Jesus often spoke about giving responsibility-
- based on what we do with the little things first.
Jabez must have been a very responsible person.
God describes him as honorable.
Jabez must have understood what it really means to be blessed by God.
He was a man who knew what it meant to press into God and ask for God's favour with passion.
God saw the heart of this man and gave him his request.
His borders were enlarged!
The only reason God will enlarge a person's territory is that-
He knows that person will use it responsibly.
He will steward what is given in light of God's Kingdom.
God truly wants to increase our territory to have greater influence in the world around us.
Jabez must have been quite a man with incredible integrity and purity of heart.
Are you this kind of person?
Can God enlarge your territory and entrust you to use it for His purposes?
Ask God today to enlarge your territory.
Ask Him to make you the kind of man or woman who is worthy of such trust.
It cannot reach us without rails!
Manna
"When we cried out to the Lord, He heard our voice" (Numbers 20:16).
A group of businessmen were flying in an aircraft.
There was a sudden decompression.
As the plane plummeted to the ground-
- one of the men asked his friend across the aisle to pray for them.
"The last time I prayed was twenty years ago!" his friend replied.
But his business companions insisted.
"All right" he said and prayed:
"O Lord, I haven't bothered You for the last twenty years; and if You get us out of this fix, I promise You, I won't bother You for the next twenty years!"
God does not consider our prayers bothersome.
On the contrary-
He desires that our very first thought at the onset of a trial would be to come to Him for help in getting through it.
So often, we hear people say, "The only thing left to do now is pray," when in reality-
God was there all along, waiting for someone to cry out to Him and call down His power.
When you begin to wonder why the storm isn't letting up, ask yourself-
"Have I requested God's help yet?"
If the answer is "No," call to Him and watch-
- as He calms the wind and waves in your life.
Our prayers lay the track down on which God's power can come.
Like a mighty locomotive-
His power is irresistible!
But-
- it cannot reach us without rails!
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Tue 28 Jan 2020, 10:58 pm
Strange fire!
MyManna
"Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:18, 19).
How pathetically unaware we are of the biblical prominence of music in the spiritual realm.
It is interesting to note that whenever the evil spirit came upon King Saul-
David (the heir apparent to Israel's throne) would play his harp and the evil spirit would depart.1 Samuel 16:23.
During the reign of David-
- more than 4000 musicians were assigned to sing in the temple night and day (1 Chronicles 9:33, 23:5).
When Elisha was about to inquire of God, he said, "'Now bring me a minstrel.'
And it came about, when the minstrel played, that the hand of the LORD came upon him" (2 Kings 3:15).
It is the mark of Spirit-filled Christians to sing and make melody in their hearts to the Lord-
- and speak to each other in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs (Ephesians 5:18, 19).
On the other side of the truth-
- lies the destructive power of secular music!
A former satanic priest showed numerous symbols on popular record albums indicating commitment and bondage to Satanism.
He told that about 85 percent of today's heavy metal and punk music groups are "owned" by Satanists.
They have unwittingly sold themselves to Satanism-
- in exchange for fame and fortune.
Few of these artists actually practice Satanism.
But most are hopelessly lost and lead others astray through the godless message in their music.
That kind of music is pervading our churches today!
In the name of praise and worship they rock n roll worship services!
Cults are busy at breaking the churches introducing-
- cunning doctrines,
- and funny dances!
Be careful about bringing "strange fire" into the house of God! (Leviticus.10:1-2).
God created sound and formed our bodies to respond to it.
Our ears pick up the sound around us and send a signal to the brain.
Some sounds irritate us.
Others makes us dizzy.
What role does music play in your life?
Are you filling your mind and home with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs?
Or are you allowing destructive secular music to rob you of your joy and vitality in the Lord?
A Christian Soldier
Suddenly they seem smaller
MyManna
"My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness"
(2 Corinthians 12:9).
Rather than saying-
`God, here is my problem'-
- we should put the problem into perspective by saying-
-`Problem, here is my God!'
There is no problem God cannot handle in our lives.
When we make our problems the object of our lives-
- it is easy to become discouraged and forget that we have a God who will sustain us during our trials.
However, when we change our perspective and the order of the words-
- we see that God becomes the object and the focus of our lives.
It seems like such a small detail wouldn't matter much-
- but when you visualize introducing your problems to Almighty God,
- suddenly they seem smaller,
- and you realize just how triumphant you can be with His help.
Often, it is only a matter of changing our perspective in order to overcome adversity.
No matter what troubles you are facing-
- always remember our God is big enough, strong enough, and powerful enough to take care of them.
He is the answer to all of life's problems, and He is enough.
Your problem is His project!
He comes to us-
- in the brokenness of our health,
- in the shipwreck of our family lives,
- in the loss of all possible peace of mind,
- even in the very thick of our sins.
He saves us in our disasters!
MyManna
"Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody with your heart to the Lord" (Ephesians 5:18, 19).
How pathetically unaware we are of the biblical prominence of music in the spiritual realm.
It is interesting to note that whenever the evil spirit came upon King Saul-
David (the heir apparent to Israel's throne) would play his harp and the evil spirit would depart.1 Samuel 16:23.
During the reign of David-
- more than 4000 musicians were assigned to sing in the temple night and day (1 Chronicles 9:33, 23:5).
When Elisha was about to inquire of God, he said, "'Now bring me a minstrel.'
And it came about, when the minstrel played, that the hand of the LORD came upon him" (2 Kings 3:15).
It is the mark of Spirit-filled Christians to sing and make melody in their hearts to the Lord-
- and speak to each other in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs (Ephesians 5:18, 19).
On the other side of the truth-
- lies the destructive power of secular music!
A former satanic priest showed numerous symbols on popular record albums indicating commitment and bondage to Satanism.
He told that about 85 percent of today's heavy metal and punk music groups are "owned" by Satanists.
They have unwittingly sold themselves to Satanism-
- in exchange for fame and fortune.
Few of these artists actually practice Satanism.
But most are hopelessly lost and lead others astray through the godless message in their music.
That kind of music is pervading our churches today!
In the name of praise and worship they rock n roll worship services!
Cults are busy at breaking the churches introducing-
- cunning doctrines,
- and funny dances!
Be careful about bringing "strange fire" into the house of God! (Leviticus.10:1-2).
God created sound and formed our bodies to respond to it.
Our ears pick up the sound around us and send a signal to the brain.
Some sounds irritate us.
Others makes us dizzy.
What role does music play in your life?
Are you filling your mind and home with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs?
Or are you allowing destructive secular music to rob you of your joy and vitality in the Lord?
A Christian Soldier
Suddenly they seem smaller
MyManna
"My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness"
(2 Corinthians 12:9).
Rather than saying-
`God, here is my problem'-
- we should put the problem into perspective by saying-
-`Problem, here is my God!'
There is no problem God cannot handle in our lives.
When we make our problems the object of our lives-
- it is easy to become discouraged and forget that we have a God who will sustain us during our trials.
However, when we change our perspective and the order of the words-
- we see that God becomes the object and the focus of our lives.
It seems like such a small detail wouldn't matter much-
- but when you visualize introducing your problems to Almighty God,
- suddenly they seem smaller,
- and you realize just how triumphant you can be with His help.
Often, it is only a matter of changing our perspective in order to overcome adversity.
No matter what troubles you are facing-
- always remember our God is big enough, strong enough, and powerful enough to take care of them.
He is the answer to all of life's problems, and He is enough.
Your problem is His project!
He comes to us-
- in the brokenness of our health,
- in the shipwreck of our family lives,
- in the loss of all possible peace of mind,
- even in the very thick of our sins.
He saves us in our disasters!
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Mon 27 Jan 2020, 8:21 pm
Walk consistently with Himby MyManna |
"At this, the administrators and the satraps tried to find grounds for charges against Daniel in his conduct of government affairs, but they were unable to do so. They could find no corruption in him, because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt nor negligent" (Daniel 6:4).
A professional young man was interviewing for a position in a thriving business.
He had a well- kept appearance and made a good first-impression on the owner.
He was well-prepared and brought in a top-notch resume in which he listed references-
- including his pastor, his Bible study teacher, and a church deacon-all who knew him well.
The business owner, also a Christian unbeknownst to the young man, studied the resume carefully for several minutes and then said:
"Young man, I appreciate these recommendations from the people who know you well in your church. However, what I would really like is a word of recommendation from people who know you during the week as well."
Unfortunately, there is oftentimes a big difference in the way people live their lives on Sunday compared to the rest of the week.
People tend to act differently in a church service from what they do out in the real world.
But the truth is:
The principles and biblical truths we hear and determine to act out on Sunday should also be practiced throughout the week.
Daniel was a perfect example of being consistent in his relationship with both God and man.
As mentioned in the verse above, his enemies tried to find some fault with him, but none could be found.
Would your church friends be shocked to find you living your life completely difference from what you do on Sunday morning?
The old adage is often true:
"Actions speak louder than words!"
Ask the Lord to help you-
- walk consistently with Him all throughout the week.
Pray that your life would be a daily witness to others who don't know Jesus until you meet Him again one day[/ltr]
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Sat 25 Jan 2020, 11:39 pm
My Manna
Perspectives on persecution
We certainly don't feel blessed when we're being insulted and persecuted.
But Jesus said in Matthew 5:11 that we, in fact, are blessed in those times!
The Lord's perspectives on persecution differs from ours.
He considers it a positive thing if we suffer in His name.
You may ask why persecution benefits us.
Persecution-
Proves our faith!
The only way we can know the capacity of our faith is through testing.
When we persevere through a trial, we begin to understand our ability to remain steadfast and obedient in the midst of challenges.
We also learn the magnitude of God's strength to support us through persecution.
Purifies our lives!
It snaps our attention away from meaningless things and onto the Lord.
We're driven into His arms by suffering.
As we grow closer to Him-
He'll remind us of wrong attitudes and actions.
Some may be related to our trial and others may not.
Persecution is a powerful cleansing tool.
Prepares us for greater service!
Suffering breaks our pride and self-reliance, attitudes that hinder our usefulness for the Lord.
Pride crumbles when we realize we're incapable of living the Christian life alone, especially when we've been insulted and hurt.
A life of ease and pleasure isn't always a sign of blessing.
If persecution proves our faith, purifies our hearts, and prepares us for greater service-
- then we should thank the Lord for the way He'll use it in our life!
Perspectives on persecution
We certainly don't feel blessed when we're being insulted and persecuted.
But Jesus said in Matthew 5:11 that we, in fact, are blessed in those times!
The Lord's perspectives on persecution differs from ours.
He considers it a positive thing if we suffer in His name.
You may ask why persecution benefits us.
Persecution-
Proves our faith!
The only way we can know the capacity of our faith is through testing.
When we persevere through a trial, we begin to understand our ability to remain steadfast and obedient in the midst of challenges.
We also learn the magnitude of God's strength to support us through persecution.
Purifies our lives!
It snaps our attention away from meaningless things and onto the Lord.
We're driven into His arms by suffering.
As we grow closer to Him-
He'll remind us of wrong attitudes and actions.
Some may be related to our trial and others may not.
Persecution is a powerful cleansing tool.
Prepares us for greater service!
Suffering breaks our pride and self-reliance, attitudes that hinder our usefulness for the Lord.
Pride crumbles when we realize we're incapable of living the Christian life alone, especially when we've been insulted and hurt.
A life of ease and pleasure isn't always a sign of blessing.
If persecution proves our faith, purifies our hearts, and prepares us for greater service-
- then we should thank the Lord for the way He'll use it in our life!
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Fri 24 Jan 2020, 10:38 pm
MyManna
We don’t have to shout!
"Through faith in him we may approach God with...confidence" (Ephesians 3:12).
A little boy wanted a bicycle for Christmas.
He was praying one night at the top of his voice-
- telling God the kind and colour of bike he wanted.
His mother said, "Son, you don't need to shout for God to hear you."
He replied:
"I know, Mum, but I need to shout if grandpa's going to hear me and buy me that bike!"
Do you know that you can pray in your mind without having to speak a word out loud?
Many of us grew up with parents who didn't have to say a thing to make their will known.
It may have been the way they cocked their heads, a certain look in their eyes or some other signal.
But whatever it was-
- we knew exactly what was being communicated and how we were expected to respond.
Our goal in prayer should be-
- to maintain such a close relationship with God that we can communicate back and forth no matter what the situation, the time of day, or anything else.
We don't have to shout, or use the right words in the right order-
- because our hearts are in tune with God's heart.
The truth is, we don't need to shout for God to hear us.
And we don't need to try and make our own answers to prayer happen either.
Jesus said our Heavenly Father knows what we need before we ask.
And Jesus and the Holy Spirit too are praying for you (Romans 8:26, 34).
He gives to us according to His will because of our relationship with Him-
- not just because we say it at a decibel level loud enough to be heard!
We don’t have to shout!
"Through faith in him we may approach God with...confidence" (Ephesians 3:12).
A little boy wanted a bicycle for Christmas.
He was praying one night at the top of his voice-
- telling God the kind and colour of bike he wanted.
His mother said, "Son, you don't need to shout for God to hear you."
He replied:
"I know, Mum, but I need to shout if grandpa's going to hear me and buy me that bike!"
Do you know that you can pray in your mind without having to speak a word out loud?
Many of us grew up with parents who didn't have to say a thing to make their will known.
It may have been the way they cocked their heads, a certain look in their eyes or some other signal.
But whatever it was-
- we knew exactly what was being communicated and how we were expected to respond.
Our goal in prayer should be-
- to maintain such a close relationship with God that we can communicate back and forth no matter what the situation, the time of day, or anything else.
We don't have to shout, or use the right words in the right order-
- because our hearts are in tune with God's heart.
The truth is, we don't need to shout for God to hear us.
And we don't need to try and make our own answers to prayer happen either.
Jesus said our Heavenly Father knows what we need before we ask.
And Jesus and the Holy Spirit too are praying for you (Romans 8:26, 34).
He gives to us according to His will because of our relationship with Him-
- not just because we say it at a decibel level loud enough to be heard!
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Thu 23 Jan 2020, 11:19 pm
My Manna
While you are waiting…
"Let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be...wanting nothing" (James 1:4).
Just because it hasn't happened yet-
- doesn't mean God has changed His mind.
While you are waiting...
God is working!
The timing may not be right for Him-
- to get the ultimate glory,
- and you the maximum benefit.
That's why the Bible says: "Let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect...wanting nothing."
Impatience is a sign of immaturity.
Children can't wait for anything!
So, are you being childish or showing maturity?
God sets His watch to accomplish His purpose, not ours.
Paul writes: "We know that all things work…according to His purpose" (Romans 8:28).
When you understand God's purpose you won't permit things that are contrary to it, including hurry and worry.
You'll also know how to allocate your time, your energy and your money-
- who you should spend your life with and who you should not.
God says, "I make known the end from the beginning." Isaiah 46:10.
First God sets the goal.
Then He determines the steps that lead to it.
And what are we supposed to do while we are waiting?
"Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward.
For you have need of endurance,
- so that after you have done the will of God,
- you may receive the promise" (Hebrews 10:36).
Begin thanking God today for what He's done.
And what He's going to do on your behalf!
Because-
He will.
He absolutely will come through for you!
While you are waiting…
"Let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be...wanting nothing" (James 1:4).
Just because it hasn't happened yet-
- doesn't mean God has changed His mind.
While you are waiting...
God is working!
The timing may not be right for Him-
- to get the ultimate glory,
- and you the maximum benefit.
That's why the Bible says: "Let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect...wanting nothing."
Impatience is a sign of immaturity.
Children can't wait for anything!
So, are you being childish or showing maturity?
God sets His watch to accomplish His purpose, not ours.
Paul writes: "We know that all things work…according to His purpose" (Romans 8:28).
When you understand God's purpose you won't permit things that are contrary to it, including hurry and worry.
You'll also know how to allocate your time, your energy and your money-
- who you should spend your life with and who you should not.
God says, "I make known the end from the beginning." Isaiah 46:10.
First God sets the goal.
Then He determines the steps that lead to it.
And what are we supposed to do while we are waiting?
"Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward.
For you have need of endurance,
- so that after you have done the will of God,
- you may receive the promise" (Hebrews 10:36).
Begin thanking God today for what He's done.
And what He's going to do on your behalf!
Because-
He will.
He absolutely will come through for you!
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Wed 22 Jan 2020, 10:27 pm
MY Manna
Confess it to God!
Is repentance necessary in the life of the believer?
Yes!
And we see this truth in 1 John 1:9, which says:
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
Repentance isn't mentioned in that verse.
But let's take a closer look.
Remember, "to repent" simply means to change your mind.
For unbelievers, this refers to a decision about where to find security.
But for believers, it involves a change of heart in behaviour or attitude.
Repentance is an ongoing decision to lead an obedient, Christlike life.
In 1 John, this choice is represented by the word confess-
- which originally meant "agree with."
In other words-
- if you confess your wrongdoing to God, you're coming into agreement with Him about that sin.
It means to allow God-
- to continually reform your mind and mold you more and more into the image of His Son.
God absolutely hates sin.
So if you agree with Him about sin, then you're changing your mind about the disobedience in your life.
Thoughts, attitudes, and actions that once seemed perfectly natural will no longer fit who you are.
As God continues to work in your life-
- your mind will gradually reject old thought patterns.
You'll more closely represent His way of thinking.
Is there sin in your life that has become too much to bear?
Confess it to God!
Allow Him to change your mind about it today.
Confess it to God!
Is repentance necessary in the life of the believer?
Yes!
And we see this truth in 1 John 1:9, which says:
"If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
Repentance isn't mentioned in that verse.
But let's take a closer look.
Remember, "to repent" simply means to change your mind.
For unbelievers, this refers to a decision about where to find security.
But for believers, it involves a change of heart in behaviour or attitude.
Repentance is an ongoing decision to lead an obedient, Christlike life.
In 1 John, this choice is represented by the word confess-
- which originally meant "agree with."
In other words-
- if you confess your wrongdoing to God, you're coming into agreement with Him about that sin.
It means to allow God-
- to continually reform your mind and mold you more and more into the image of His Son.
God absolutely hates sin.
So if you agree with Him about sin, then you're changing your mind about the disobedience in your life.
Thoughts, attitudes, and actions that once seemed perfectly natural will no longer fit who you are.
As God continues to work in your life-
- your mind will gradually reject old thought patterns.
You'll more closely represent His way of thinking.
Is there sin in your life that has become too much to bear?
Confess it to God!
Allow Him to change your mind about it today.
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Tue 21 Jan 2020, 6:35 pm
My Manna
There is nothing that can touch a believer’s life unless it comes through the permissive will of God.
That means He has complete control-
- even when it feels as if Satan has been allowed to run rampant through our personal life.
Trapped in Roman confinement-
Paul knew that God could rescue him; after all, He had removed Peter’s chains. Acts 12:7.
But Paul was not simply waiting around for liberation.
Because he believed God did everything for a reason, he earnestly continued doing kingdom work—even while bound in chains.
Indeed, the Lord has a purpose for whatever He brings into a person’s life.
Though we may desperately wish for our circumstances to change-
God will allow us to go through a given situation when it will ultimately bring about the most favorable result.
If we let Him complete the work instead of trying to extricate ourselves, we will see a positive outcome.
Paul’s time in prison proved a benefit for the gospel, though logically, the spread of the Word should have been severely
hindered by the confinement of such a great preacher.
In two years he had been guarded by many of the elite praetorian soldiers.Phil. 1:13.
And we know what Paul would have talked to them about during their shifts—Christ!
There are no verses in the Bible that say believers are promised an easy life.
In fact, the Word warns the opposite and says we will see trouble. John 16:33.
But we, like Paul, can choose to live above our circumstances by realizing that-
God has a plan to use our experiences for our good and the benefit of others.
There is nothing that can touch a believer’s life unless it comes through the permissive will of God.
That means He has complete control-
- even when it feels as if Satan has been allowed to run rampant through our personal life.
Trapped in Roman confinement-
Paul knew that God could rescue him; after all, He had removed Peter’s chains. Acts 12:7.
But Paul was not simply waiting around for liberation.
Because he believed God did everything for a reason, he earnestly continued doing kingdom work—even while bound in chains.
Indeed, the Lord has a purpose for whatever He brings into a person’s life.
Though we may desperately wish for our circumstances to change-
God will allow us to go through a given situation when it will ultimately bring about the most favorable result.
If we let Him complete the work instead of trying to extricate ourselves, we will see a positive outcome.
Paul’s time in prison proved a benefit for the gospel, though logically, the spread of the Word should have been severely
hindered by the confinement of such a great preacher.
In two years he had been guarded by many of the elite praetorian soldiers.Phil. 1:13.
And we know what Paul would have talked to them about during their shifts—Christ!
There are no verses in the Bible that say believers are promised an easy life.
In fact, the Word warns the opposite and says we will see trouble. John 16:33.
But we, like Paul, can choose to live above our circumstances by realizing that-
God has a plan to use our experiences for our good and the benefit of others.
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Tue 24 Dec 2019, 7:06 pm
My Manna
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.”Luke 2:8-9.
If you had good news, whom would you tell first?
When something wonderful happens to me, the first people I want to tell are those closest to me, those most important in my life.
They have proven themselves trustworthy over time, and will rejoice with me..
They’ve stood by me during difficult times, and will share in a victory.
When God had the best news of the ages, whom did He tell first?
Important religious people?
Wealthy folk?
Learned men?
Actually, no!
God told shepherds.
It didn’t take long for the shepherds to pull themselves together after the heavenly crew left.
Knowing the “town of David” meant Bethlehem-- the shepherds hurried there, and arrived in time to see Jesus in the stable.
The Bible says after seeing the baby, “...they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” Luke 6:17b-18.
Shepherds were in the fields among smelly and not-so-bright sheep.
They had no power or influence.
They had nothing to bring the baby King.
So why did God choose the lowest members of society to entrust the greatest truth of the ages?
Why didn’t God choose the religious leaders?
Surely they would have been excited after waiting for thousands of years to meet their Saviour.
Why not choose a king or a rich man whose testimony would have carried more weight?
Why shepherds?
Two reasons come to mind when I ponder that question.
First-
Humility!
Shepherds had the capacity to be humbled and amazed that God chose them to hear the news.
Imagine how unworthy they must have felt, but how honoured.
You’ve probably heard about the Pharisees.
They were religious people back when Jesus was born who thought highly of themselves. They loved religion more than they loved a relationship with God.
They probably wouldn’t have been very impressed that God chose to reveal the secret of the ages to them. In fact, they might have thought they deserved to hear the news first.
But not the shepherds.
They were amazed God chose them and they couldn’t keep it to themselves.
That leads me to the second reason I think God chose shepherds.
Honesty!
After they had seen the baby Saviour, they “spread the word” concerning what they knew.
They weren’t like too-cool teenagers, worried about what others thought of them.
They didn’t over-think the situation and talk themselves out of telling the news.
They were exuberant, overflowing with joy and probably still reflected a bit of the glory of being with Jesus.
You know what happened when those uneducated, simple shepherds spread the word that a Savior had been born?
People were amazed!
God is His infinite wisdom chose just the right group of people to entrust the greatest news of eternity.
Those humble men took the Good News of Jesus and did just what God wanted them to do – told others, and their lives were never the same.
"Dear Lord, today I rejoice with the shepherds in the Good News of Jesus’ birth. Help me to set aside those traditions that have become commonplace and explore the amazement of Jesus’ birth. Thank You for sending a Savior for me. I want to spend my life sharing this news. In Jesus’ Name, Amen."
“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.”Luke 2:8-9.
If you had good news, whom would you tell first?
When something wonderful happens to me, the first people I want to tell are those closest to me, those most important in my life.
They have proven themselves trustworthy over time, and will rejoice with me..
They’ve stood by me during difficult times, and will share in a victory.
When God had the best news of the ages, whom did He tell first?
Important religious people?
Wealthy folk?
Learned men?
Actually, no!
God told shepherds.
It didn’t take long for the shepherds to pull themselves together after the heavenly crew left.
Knowing the “town of David” meant Bethlehem-- the shepherds hurried there, and arrived in time to see Jesus in the stable.
The Bible says after seeing the baby, “...they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them.” Luke 6:17b-18.
Shepherds were in the fields among smelly and not-so-bright sheep.
They had no power or influence.
They had nothing to bring the baby King.
So why did God choose the lowest members of society to entrust the greatest truth of the ages?
Why didn’t God choose the religious leaders?
Surely they would have been excited after waiting for thousands of years to meet their Saviour.
Why not choose a king or a rich man whose testimony would have carried more weight?
Why shepherds?
Two reasons come to mind when I ponder that question.
First-
Humility!
Shepherds had the capacity to be humbled and amazed that God chose them to hear the news.
Imagine how unworthy they must have felt, but how honoured.
You’ve probably heard about the Pharisees.
They were religious people back when Jesus was born who thought highly of themselves. They loved religion more than they loved a relationship with God.
They probably wouldn’t have been very impressed that God chose to reveal the secret of the ages to them. In fact, they might have thought they deserved to hear the news first.
But not the shepherds.
They were amazed God chose them and they couldn’t keep it to themselves.
That leads me to the second reason I think God chose shepherds.
Honesty!
After they had seen the baby Saviour, they “spread the word” concerning what they knew.
They weren’t like too-cool teenagers, worried about what others thought of them.
They didn’t over-think the situation and talk themselves out of telling the news.
They were exuberant, overflowing with joy and probably still reflected a bit of the glory of being with Jesus.
You know what happened when those uneducated, simple shepherds spread the word that a Savior had been born?
People were amazed!
God is His infinite wisdom chose just the right group of people to entrust the greatest news of eternity.
Those humble men took the Good News of Jesus and did just what God wanted them to do – told others, and their lives were never the same.
"Dear Lord, today I rejoice with the shepherds in the Good News of Jesus’ birth. Help me to set aside those traditions that have become commonplace and explore the amazement of Jesus’ birth. Thank You for sending a Savior for me. I want to spend my life sharing this news. In Jesus’ Name, Amen."
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Thu 19 Dec 2019, 11:08 pm
My Manna
"Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" John 1:29.
John, who was born miraculously to aged parents (Luke 1:11-18), had the mission of preparing the way for Christ, the Messiah.
As a preacher, he drew great crowds.
He denounced people's sins, called for repentance, and baptized many who turned back to God.
The high point in John's life came when he was baptizing at the Jordan River and Jesus approached him.
John called out, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!"
He also explained, "This is the Son of God." John 1:29-34.
A low point came, however, when John was in prison and began to wonder if Jesus really was the Messiah.
John sent friends to find out, and Jesus assured him by saying that the sick were being healed, the dead were being raised, and the good news of God's kingdom was being preached.
The first time we read the word "lamb" in the Old Testament, the speaker is Isaac, and he is asking his father, "Where is the lamb for the (sacrifice)? " Genesis 22:7.
In the New Testament at the beginning of Jesus' ministry, we see this word again as John announces, "Look, the Lamb of God ..."
John pointed us to Jesus, the Son of God, as the Lamb who came to meet our deepest need by becoming the sacrifice for all our sin.
"Lord Jesus, I believe you are the Lamb of God, the Son of God, the Saviour of the world. Take away my doubts, I pray, and strengthen me to serve you always. Amen."
THE TREE
"And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts…2 Peter 1:19."
There is something special about the early December mornings when the Spirit of Christmas is in the air. I am the first up in our household and consider my morning approach to the day a gift from my dear mother who for years could be found reading her Bible and praying over her family in those early morning hours. I cherish this special time when it seems peace reigns supreme under the lethargic spell of an ending night being awakened upon by the light of a new day. For me this is when some of my most cherished and intimate moments with the Lord take place.
During those early December mornings I like to turn on the Christmas tree lights making them the only light in an otherwise darkened room. I sit down in my favorite chair with a cup of coffee and my Bible in hand taking a few moments to fix my eyes upon our tree. What beauty the ornaments possess as they sparkle and glisten reflecting the lights from the tree. There are dated hallmark ornaments which were lovingly chosen each year by my wife Kathy. There are ornaments representing our years of marriage together, the birth of our first son Jeremy, our second son Courtney and third son Brandon.
There are special ornaments from my wife’s childhood, handmade ornaments fashion from the hands of my father in law who was gifted in woodworking and ornaments crafted by my fraternal grandmother who remained creative all the years of her life making gifts for her grandchildren and great grandchildren. And, of course, there are those priceless ornaments given to us by our children during those precious elementary school years which expressed at their young age their love for us and the reason for the season. What a personal and priceless collection of memories are revealed by the light of the tree.
Together, their hypnotic glow gives a warm golden hue to every object in the room. For minutes it seems although I am sure it is not, I glare with my eyes fixed upon the different colors of light. They are a beautiful mixture of reds, yellows, blues and greens wrapped snuggly around the branches of the tree as if grafted into the branches. At the top of our tree is the star. The star is captivating because it allows the multiple colored lights behind it to shine through its form making it appear as the brightest source of Light for the tree. Perhaps I am one of those “peculiar people” but this quiet reflection in the early morning gives me a sense of joy and peace in my soul.
One special morning, I found myself thinking of another Tree – The Tree upon which Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ died. He hung on The Tree, took our curse, suffered our pain and died our death. What a price He paid on His First Advent to place the gift of Christmas within our hearts. In those few reflective moments, I saw our Christmas tree in a different Light – it reflected the Light of His Love, the Light of a cherished relationship and the Light of a future hope confirmed in the prophetic and authoritative Word of God.
For those brief moments, our tree became a symbol of the beautiful Body of Christ. The star represented Our Lord and Savior and Coming King for His Light was the brightest. The cherished ornaments so lovingly placed beforehand on the branches reflected as well the light coming from the tree. Suddenly the Bible verse in John 1:4 came to me: “In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men.” Then, as if the Lord were networking the verses together, the words of John 8:12 echoed in my heart: “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”
What a glorious remembrance! Jesus is The Light that brings life to an otherwise darkened world! And it is His Light that brings hope into a dark place. What Beauty I thought. The ornaments so individually varied on the branches of the tree were unified as they reflected the Light. Oh how His Glorious Light is intended to bring joy and peace to a fallen world. What a reminder of Jesus telling us, “we are the light of the world and as a city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” I couldn’t help thinking, as one does when confronting their own sinful nature, where am I on the tree? I asked, “Lord, am I reflecting your light in a way that shows the beauty of our relationship? Am I a light which shines into a dark place? And will I one day lay my gifts you entrusted to me under your Tree of Life which you made possible by so great a salvation?”
The Bible encourages you and me to do all things without grumbling or disputing; so that we will prove ourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom we appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ we will have reason to glory because we did not run in vain nor toil in vain. (Philippians 2:14-16) I want to hold fast to the Word of Life during those times of darkness. I want to have reason to glory in that day of Christ – don’t you? Jesus said, “The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now.” At that moment, I said Lord help me to walk in the Light as you are in the Light and to always love my brother for I know you desire peace on earth and good will toward men. Never let me fall prey to the darkness around me no matter how difficult things may get. Help me to press on so I might lay hold of that for which I was laid hold of by You.
The Apostle Peter assures us we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. As Christians we have Christ in us the hope of glory. Our future is assured and our past forgiven. The first advent promises their will be a second. Until that day, determine to make each day a day when the Spirit of Christmas is in the air. Choose to be a shining light in the midst of darkness. Let your life reflect the light and love of Jesus Christ. Commit to lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles and run with endurance the race set before you.
Fix your eyes on the Bright and Morning Star who promises to lead you as He led the magi of old until you reach that home on God’s celestial shore. Do not grow weary and lose heart. Jesus said, “These things I have spoken to you that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” Be faithful in season and out. Give thanks to the Father of Lights who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light. And give “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”
"Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!" John 1:29.
John, who was born miraculously to aged parents (Luke 1:11-18), had the mission of preparing the way for Christ, the Messiah.
As a preacher, he drew great crowds.
He denounced people's sins, called for repentance, and baptized many who turned back to God.
The high point in John's life came when he was baptizing at the Jordan River and Jesus approached him.
John called out, "Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!"
He also explained, "This is the Son of God." John 1:29-34.
A low point came, however, when John was in prison and began to wonder if Jesus really was the Messiah.
John sent friends to find out, and Jesus assured him by saying that the sick were being healed, the dead were being raised, and the good news of God's kingdom was being preached.
The first time we read the word "lamb" in the Old Testament, the speaker is Isaac, and he is asking his father, "Where is the lamb for the (sacrifice)? " Genesis 22:7.
In the New Testament at the beginning of Jesus' ministry, we see this word again as John announces, "Look, the Lamb of God ..."
John pointed us to Jesus, the Son of God, as the Lamb who came to meet our deepest need by becoming the sacrifice for all our sin.
"Lord Jesus, I believe you are the Lamb of God, the Son of God, the Saviour of the world. Take away my doubts, I pray, and strengthen me to serve you always. Amen."
THE TREE
"And so we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts…2 Peter 1:19."
There is something special about the early December mornings when the Spirit of Christmas is in the air. I am the first up in our household and consider my morning approach to the day a gift from my dear mother who for years could be found reading her Bible and praying over her family in those early morning hours. I cherish this special time when it seems peace reigns supreme under the lethargic spell of an ending night being awakened upon by the light of a new day. For me this is when some of my most cherished and intimate moments with the Lord take place.
During those early December mornings I like to turn on the Christmas tree lights making them the only light in an otherwise darkened room. I sit down in my favorite chair with a cup of coffee and my Bible in hand taking a few moments to fix my eyes upon our tree. What beauty the ornaments possess as they sparkle and glisten reflecting the lights from the tree. There are dated hallmark ornaments which were lovingly chosen each year by my wife Kathy. There are ornaments representing our years of marriage together, the birth of our first son Jeremy, our second son Courtney and third son Brandon.
There are special ornaments from my wife’s childhood, handmade ornaments fashion from the hands of my father in law who was gifted in woodworking and ornaments crafted by my fraternal grandmother who remained creative all the years of her life making gifts for her grandchildren and great grandchildren. And, of course, there are those priceless ornaments given to us by our children during those precious elementary school years which expressed at their young age their love for us and the reason for the season. What a personal and priceless collection of memories are revealed by the light of the tree.
Together, their hypnotic glow gives a warm golden hue to every object in the room. For minutes it seems although I am sure it is not, I glare with my eyes fixed upon the different colors of light. They are a beautiful mixture of reds, yellows, blues and greens wrapped snuggly around the branches of the tree as if grafted into the branches. At the top of our tree is the star. The star is captivating because it allows the multiple colored lights behind it to shine through its form making it appear as the brightest source of Light for the tree. Perhaps I am one of those “peculiar people” but this quiet reflection in the early morning gives me a sense of joy and peace in my soul.
One special morning, I found myself thinking of another Tree – The Tree upon which Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ died. He hung on The Tree, took our curse, suffered our pain and died our death. What a price He paid on His First Advent to place the gift of Christmas within our hearts. In those few reflective moments, I saw our Christmas tree in a different Light – it reflected the Light of His Love, the Light of a cherished relationship and the Light of a future hope confirmed in the prophetic and authoritative Word of God.
For those brief moments, our tree became a symbol of the beautiful Body of Christ. The star represented Our Lord and Savior and Coming King for His Light was the brightest. The cherished ornaments so lovingly placed beforehand on the branches reflected as well the light coming from the tree. Suddenly the Bible verse in John 1:4 came to me: “In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men.” Then, as if the Lord were networking the verses together, the words of John 8:12 echoed in my heart: “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life.”
What a glorious remembrance! Jesus is The Light that brings life to an otherwise darkened world! And it is His Light that brings hope into a dark place. What Beauty I thought. The ornaments so individually varied on the branches of the tree were unified as they reflected the Light. Oh how His Glorious Light is intended to bring joy and peace to a fallen world. What a reminder of Jesus telling us, “we are the light of the world and as a city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” I couldn’t help thinking, as one does when confronting their own sinful nature, where am I on the tree? I asked, “Lord, am I reflecting your light in a way that shows the beauty of our relationship? Am I a light which shines into a dark place? And will I one day lay my gifts you entrusted to me under your Tree of Life which you made possible by so great a salvation?”
The Bible encourages you and me to do all things without grumbling or disputing; so that we will prove ourselves to be blameless and innocent, children of God above reproach in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom we appear as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life, so that in the day of Christ we will have reason to glory because we did not run in vain nor toil in vain. (Philippians 2:14-16) I want to hold fast to the Word of Life during those times of darkness. I want to have reason to glory in that day of Christ – don’t you? Jesus said, “The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now.” At that moment, I said Lord help me to walk in the Light as you are in the Light and to always love my brother for I know you desire peace on earth and good will toward men. Never let me fall prey to the darkness around me no matter how difficult things may get. Help me to press on so I might lay hold of that for which I was laid hold of by You.
The Apostle Peter assures us we have the prophetic word confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. As Christians we have Christ in us the hope of glory. Our future is assured and our past forgiven. The first advent promises their will be a second. Until that day, determine to make each day a day when the Spirit of Christmas is in the air. Choose to be a shining light in the midst of darkness. Let your life reflect the light and love of Jesus Christ. Commit to lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles and run with endurance the race set before you.
Fix your eyes on the Bright and Morning Star who promises to lead you as He led the magi of old until you reach that home on God’s celestial shore. Do not grow weary and lose heart. Jesus said, “These things I have spoken to you that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.” Be faithful in season and out. Give thanks to the Father of Lights who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light. And give “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Wed 04 Dec 2019, 2:13 pm
My Manna
"In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.” Luke 1:39-44.
John had the unique experience of encountering Christ the first time while he was still a fetus.
So much joy surrounded the news that Messiah was coming into the world that it caused even the unborn herald of the Christ to leap for joy when he heard the sound of his mother’s voice.
We know nothing of him until he appears in the Judean wilderness, crying out with the voice of a prophet: “Prepare the way of the Lord; make straight paths for him.”
He fulfilled his purpose, inaugurated Jesus’ ministry by baptizing him, and then was arrested and beheaded soon after.
In a way, he lived a life similar to that of his master; he was born to die.
A tragic end to an explosive life, set into motion so many years before when he heard the voice of his master’s mother, and leapt for joy.
To many John was just a short footnote in the annals of our world.
To Jesus he was much more. John was the greatest man who ever lived that was born in the natural order of things.
He was “more than a prophet.” Matthew 11:7-11.
Interesting, isn’t it, that a prophet without a single recorded miracle or prediction, who spent his entire ministry on the fringes of society, would be called by Jesus the greatest man who ever lived?
John’s joy came not from usurping power, or from gathering a following of disciples, or from establishing kingdoms in his name.
His joy came from fulfilling his call in his lifetime.
His joy came from encountering Jesus the Messiah, even briefly.
No doubt he deserved more from a human point of view, but his joy was complete by having the unparalleled privilege of preparing the way for the Lord’s Christ.
Where do you find your joy?
What are you pursuing with the belief that it will bring you peace and fulfillment?
If it is anything short of Jesus-
- it will prove futile in the end.
A life lived for Jesus, even briefly, is worth a thousand lives lived for the pleasures of this fleeting world.
John’s joy is stamped in eternity, and for ten thousand ages he will reap from it.
How long will your joy last?
How long will the things that bring you joy last?
"Father, let me know the joy of following you this advent season. Keep my eyes fixed on Jesus, the Author and Perfector of my faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, so that he might sit at your right hand forever in glory. Your ways are beyond my ways, seeing from eternity past to endless future. Help me to trust in your word, in your promises, and in the hope of my salvation, and not in the enticements of this world. I want to find my joy in you. In Jesus' Name I pray.Amen."
"In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy.” Luke 1:39-44.
John had the unique experience of encountering Christ the first time while he was still a fetus.
So much joy surrounded the news that Messiah was coming into the world that it caused even the unborn herald of the Christ to leap for joy when he heard the sound of his mother’s voice.
We know nothing of him until he appears in the Judean wilderness, crying out with the voice of a prophet: “Prepare the way of the Lord; make straight paths for him.”
He fulfilled his purpose, inaugurated Jesus’ ministry by baptizing him, and then was arrested and beheaded soon after.
In a way, he lived a life similar to that of his master; he was born to die.
A tragic end to an explosive life, set into motion so many years before when he heard the voice of his master’s mother, and leapt for joy.
To many John was just a short footnote in the annals of our world.
To Jesus he was much more. John was the greatest man who ever lived that was born in the natural order of things.
He was “more than a prophet.” Matthew 11:7-11.
Interesting, isn’t it, that a prophet without a single recorded miracle or prediction, who spent his entire ministry on the fringes of society, would be called by Jesus the greatest man who ever lived?
John’s joy came not from usurping power, or from gathering a following of disciples, or from establishing kingdoms in his name.
His joy came from fulfilling his call in his lifetime.
His joy came from encountering Jesus the Messiah, even briefly.
No doubt he deserved more from a human point of view, but his joy was complete by having the unparalleled privilege of preparing the way for the Lord’s Christ.
Where do you find your joy?
What are you pursuing with the belief that it will bring you peace and fulfillment?
If it is anything short of Jesus-
- it will prove futile in the end.
A life lived for Jesus, even briefly, is worth a thousand lives lived for the pleasures of this fleeting world.
John’s joy is stamped in eternity, and for ten thousand ages he will reap from it.
How long will your joy last?
How long will the things that bring you joy last?
"Father, let me know the joy of following you this advent season. Keep my eyes fixed on Jesus, the Author and Perfector of my faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, so that he might sit at your right hand forever in glory. Your ways are beyond my ways, seeing from eternity past to endless future. Help me to trust in your word, in your promises, and in the hope of my salvation, and not in the enticements of this world. I want to find my joy in you. In Jesus' Name I pray.Amen."
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Sat 30 Nov 2019, 11:10 pm
My Manna
Why does John the Baptist figure so prominently in the earlier days of Advent?
There are three reasons.
First, Advent deals not only with Jesus’s first coming as the babe of Bethlehem in the middle of salvation history but also with his Second Coming at the end of salvation history.
Second, John the Baptist is the last of the old covenant prophets.
Third, John the Baptist is Jesus’s forerunner in birth, message, and death.
Advent means “coming,” and it prepares for Jesus’s coming.
He came as a baby, God incarnate on earth.
But, with the readings about John the Baptist in Advent, the Church is teaching us to prepare for his Second Coming.
The Gospel texts about John the Baptist paint him as a fiery apocalyptic prophet convinced the mighty one coming after him, Jesus, would bring about the end of the world and usher in the kingdom of God.
Advent is meant to help us get our spiritual lives tuned up so that we’re ready when he comes back for good, for real, to conquer sin, death, hell, and the devil once and for all.
When they’re grown, John and Jesus preach the same message, the message that Jesus is the agent of the coming kingdom of God, in which all diseases will be cured, all demons and the devil banished, all the oppressed released as oppressors suffer their punishment, and all death conquered as the saints are raised to eternal life.
It is thus no accident that John and Jesus suffer the same fate.
John is beheaded and Jesus crucified-
- at the whim of craven political rulers installed by Rome:
Herod Antipas and Pontius Pilate.
Both rulers, at the outset, hesitate to have John and Jesus executed, but when push comes to shove, they decide it’s more expedient to kill them than to risk their own power, prestige, and position.
And so, Advent prepares us not merely to welcome and worship little baby Jesus-
- but to accept Jesus’s call to us to take up the cross and follow him.
Our lives may be marked by suffering and martyrdom, but ultimately, his coming and our salvation are certain!
Why does John the Baptist figure so prominently in the earlier days of Advent?
There are three reasons.
First, Advent deals not only with Jesus’s first coming as the babe of Bethlehem in the middle of salvation history but also with his Second Coming at the end of salvation history.
Second, John the Baptist is the last of the old covenant prophets.
Third, John the Baptist is Jesus’s forerunner in birth, message, and death.
Advent means “coming,” and it prepares for Jesus’s coming.
He came as a baby, God incarnate on earth.
But, with the readings about John the Baptist in Advent, the Church is teaching us to prepare for his Second Coming.
The Gospel texts about John the Baptist paint him as a fiery apocalyptic prophet convinced the mighty one coming after him, Jesus, would bring about the end of the world and usher in the kingdom of God.
Advent is meant to help us get our spiritual lives tuned up so that we’re ready when he comes back for good, for real, to conquer sin, death, hell, and the devil once and for all.
When they’re grown, John and Jesus preach the same message, the message that Jesus is the agent of the coming kingdom of God, in which all diseases will be cured, all demons and the devil banished, all the oppressed released as oppressors suffer their punishment, and all death conquered as the saints are raised to eternal life.
It is thus no accident that John and Jesus suffer the same fate.
John is beheaded and Jesus crucified-
- at the whim of craven political rulers installed by Rome:
Herod Antipas and Pontius Pilate.
Both rulers, at the outset, hesitate to have John and Jesus executed, but when push comes to shove, they decide it’s more expedient to kill them than to risk their own power, prestige, and position.
And so, Advent prepares us not merely to welcome and worship little baby Jesus-
- but to accept Jesus’s call to us to take up the cross and follow him.
Our lives may be marked by suffering and martyrdom, but ultimately, his coming and our salvation are certain!
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Wed 27 Nov 2019, 8:32 pm
My Manna
“Thanks be to God!”
Wouldn’t it be great to engrave that phrase on the lintels of our minds?
How wonderful to recognize every blessing God sends, and, as it comes our way, to say:
“Thanks be to God!”
Gratitude is the attitude that reclaims our spirits in times of disappointment or distress.
However bleak our circumstances-
- we can always find reasons to say:
“Thanks be to God.”
That little phrase can bear us through difficulty and lift us from defeat.
Last year, for example, the remains of Christians slain in Libya were returned to their families in Egypt.
The father of one of the victims said of his son-
“Thanks be to God, he died a hero. He and his brothers, the martyrs, did not abandon their faith.”
The phrase is especially powerful because it is Biblical.
It appears five times in the consecutive books of Romans, 1 Corinthians and 2 Corinthians, expressing thanks to God-
- for setting us free;
- for victory over sin and death;
- for spreading His message through us;
- and for Jesus, His indescribable gift!
Let’s go through life with this phrase engraved in our minds.
A grateful heart-
- lifts our spirits,
- honours our Savior,
- frustrates our enemy and
- magnifies our influence.
Whatever you’re going through today-
- take a deep breath,
- look to Jesus,
- count your blessings,
- and say five times:
“Thanks be to God!”
“Thanks be to God!”
Wouldn’t it be great to engrave that phrase on the lintels of our minds?
How wonderful to recognize every blessing God sends, and, as it comes our way, to say:
“Thanks be to God!”
Gratitude is the attitude that reclaims our spirits in times of disappointment or distress.
However bleak our circumstances-
- we can always find reasons to say:
“Thanks be to God.”
That little phrase can bear us through difficulty and lift us from defeat.
Last year, for example, the remains of Christians slain in Libya were returned to their families in Egypt.
The father of one of the victims said of his son-
“Thanks be to God, he died a hero. He and his brothers, the martyrs, did not abandon their faith.”
The phrase is especially powerful because it is Biblical.
It appears five times in the consecutive books of Romans, 1 Corinthians and 2 Corinthians, expressing thanks to God-
- for setting us free;
- for victory over sin and death;
- for spreading His message through us;
- and for Jesus, His indescribable gift!
Let’s go through life with this phrase engraved in our minds.
A grateful heart-
- lifts our spirits,
- honours our Savior,
- frustrates our enemy and
- magnifies our influence.
Whatever you’re going through today-
- take a deep breath,
- look to Jesus,
- count your blessings,
- and say five times:
“Thanks be to God!”
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Sun 24 Nov 2019, 10:37 pm
My Manna
"We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God." Acts 14:22.
We don't always like to read a verse like that.
We would rather the passage read-
"Through many days of perpetual happiness we enter the kingdom of God."
But that isn't Scripture, and that isn't life.
Trials and tribulations will come.
Job said it well:
"Mortals, born of woman, are of few days and full of trouble." Job 14:1.
Jesus once told a story about two men who built two homes.
They may have been built at the same time, close together, and even with the same floor plan.
One of the builders, however, erected his home on shifting sand, while the other built on a stable rock foundation.
Then the storms came, hitting both of those houses—hard!
The house that had been built on sand collapsed and fell in upon itself, while the one built on the rock stood firm.
The obvious moral of the story is to build your life on a foundation that will last-
- like the one we find in the pages of God's Word.
But here's an application we sometimes miss:
The storm came to both lives.
The wind beat on both houses.
The rain poured on both building sites.
The man who was wise and carefully chose a stable foundation got hit with the same hurricane-force winds as the man who foolishly took shortcuts and didn't bother to plan ahead.
We all will experience storms in life.
Good things will happen to us as well as tragic and inexplicable things.
Every life will have its share of pain.
Even so, we have a God who, despite the worst tragedy, can bring good out of bad.
That is not to say that God will make bad good because bad is bad. But it is to say that good can come out of bad.
As Romans 8:28 affirms-
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Life is a process, and as finite beings who live moment to moment, we can't see around the bend.
We can't discern God's ultimate purposes.
But we can know that the ultimate result will be good...
- because He is good.
"We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God." Acts 14:22.
We don't always like to read a verse like that.
We would rather the passage read-
"Through many days of perpetual happiness we enter the kingdom of God."
But that isn't Scripture, and that isn't life.
Trials and tribulations will come.
Job said it well:
"Mortals, born of woman, are of few days and full of trouble." Job 14:1.
Jesus once told a story about two men who built two homes.
They may have been built at the same time, close together, and even with the same floor plan.
One of the builders, however, erected his home on shifting sand, while the other built on a stable rock foundation.
Then the storms came, hitting both of those houses—hard!
The house that had been built on sand collapsed and fell in upon itself, while the one built on the rock stood firm.
The obvious moral of the story is to build your life on a foundation that will last-
- like the one we find in the pages of God's Word.
But here's an application we sometimes miss:
The storm came to both lives.
The wind beat on both houses.
The rain poured on both building sites.
The man who was wise and carefully chose a stable foundation got hit with the same hurricane-force winds as the man who foolishly took shortcuts and didn't bother to plan ahead.
We all will experience storms in life.
Good things will happen to us as well as tragic and inexplicable things.
Every life will have its share of pain.
Even so, we have a God who, despite the worst tragedy, can bring good out of bad.
That is not to say that God will make bad good because bad is bad. But it is to say that good can come out of bad.
As Romans 8:28 affirms-
"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
Life is a process, and as finite beings who live moment to moment, we can't see around the bend.
We can't discern God's ultimate purposes.
But we can know that the ultimate result will be good...
- because He is good.
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Wed 30 Oct 2019, 1:13 pm
My Manna
"Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14.
There are two kinds of birds that roam the desert:
Vultures and hummingbirds.
The vulture thrives on a diet of rotting meat.
He flies overhead searching for traces of leftover carcasses from slow-footed critters eaten by wild animals who’ve already had their fill.
Hummingbirds, on the other hand-
- will sweep through the desert, passing over all those repulsive, dead animals and seek colorful patches of beautiful wild desert flowers.
They will suckle the delicious juices of those sweet desert blossoms and be satisfied.
While vultures look to the dead for their survival, the hummingbird seeks the living!
Likewise, some of us unconsciously look to our past with its regrets, failures and sins to keep us alive.
We think that somehow by looking back to those dead things, we might find some motivation to keep surviving here and now.
But let’s take a lesson from the hummingbird.
Let's sweep past that which is dead and focus on the sweet new life-
- the exciting future that God holds for us as we continue seeking Him and moving forward in our relationship with Him!
My Manna
"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things" . 1 Corinthians 13:4–7.
Love is the relational dynamite that obliterates any obstacle in its path—anything that threatens to keep you from loving.
But not just any kind of love can do this.
Not phileo, for instance, the Greek word for brotherly love.
Neither can the Old Testament eye-for-an-eye, tooth-for-a- tooth love-
- where you say you’ll do something for somebody as long as they do what you expect them to do for you.
First Corinthians 13 love is agape love.
It’s the Mount Everest of love—a rock you can stand on.
Agape love is 100 percent a choice of your will to love another person, wanting only what’s best for them before you even think about what’s best for yourself.
Nothing can stand in the way of this kind of love.
Selfishness-
- can't stand in the way of agape.
The biggest obstacle in you, the biggest obstacle in me, is selfishness—thinking only of how something affects us.
But “love is patient and kind.”
Not selfish.
“Love does not envy or boast,” because it’s not selfish.
“It is not arrogant or rude,” because it’s not selfish.
“It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful,” because it’s not focused on itself.
God’s love in you is a depth of love you can’t produce yourself.
Love conquers selfishness.
Skepticism-
- can't stand in the way of agape.
We say, “I get so tired of you”—but “love bears all things.”
We say, “You’re never going to change. I don’t think you can do it”—but love “believes all things.”
We say, “I just don’t see myself with you anymore. I don’t see how this marriage can last”—but love “hopes all things.”
We say, “I can’t keep going on like this. I can’t do it anymore”—but love “endures all things.”
Agape love refuses to doubt God’s good intentions toward that person’s future. Love conquers skepticism.
Status quo-
- can't stand in the way of agape !
It’s understandable to get discouraged or frustrated at people’s inability or unwillingness to see what they’re doing and how it’s causing pain in others.
But love believes that God’s transforming power is not finished with people yet, whether it’s a spouse, one of our children, a close but difficult friend—or us.
Love prays, perseveres, and holds out for His highest and best.
“It does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.”
Love conquers the status quo.
You don’t even need to like someone—not every moment anyway—to be able to love her with 1 Corinthians 13 love. You just need to decide, God helping you, that you are going to love that person and do what’s best for him.
No matter what.
Always.
It’s a supernatural thing, this love.
But God can give you the supernatural capacity to do it.
And when He does, there’s nothing in you, and nothing in them, that can stop what this love can accomplish.
"Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me with a perfect, supernatural love. Thank You for being patient, for continuing to bear with me, and for never giving up on me. Thank You, too, for the people You’ve placed in my life that I can love at close range, for giving me the opportunity to influence them deeply through how well I care for them and persevere with them. Love them through me, Lord, with Your agape love. I ask this in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen."
"Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14.
There are two kinds of birds that roam the desert:
Vultures and hummingbirds.
The vulture thrives on a diet of rotting meat.
He flies overhead searching for traces of leftover carcasses from slow-footed critters eaten by wild animals who’ve already had their fill.
Hummingbirds, on the other hand-
- will sweep through the desert, passing over all those repulsive, dead animals and seek colorful patches of beautiful wild desert flowers.
They will suckle the delicious juices of those sweet desert blossoms and be satisfied.
While vultures look to the dead for their survival, the hummingbird seeks the living!
Likewise, some of us unconsciously look to our past with its regrets, failures and sins to keep us alive.
We think that somehow by looking back to those dead things, we might find some motivation to keep surviving here and now.
But let’s take a lesson from the hummingbird.
Let's sweep past that which is dead and focus on the sweet new life-
- the exciting future that God holds for us as we continue seeking Him and moving forward in our relationship with Him!
My Manna
"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things" . 1 Corinthians 13:4–7.
Love is the relational dynamite that obliterates any obstacle in its path—anything that threatens to keep you from loving.
But not just any kind of love can do this.
Not phileo, for instance, the Greek word for brotherly love.
Neither can the Old Testament eye-for-an-eye, tooth-for-a- tooth love-
- where you say you’ll do something for somebody as long as they do what you expect them to do for you.
First Corinthians 13 love is agape love.
It’s the Mount Everest of love—a rock you can stand on.
Agape love is 100 percent a choice of your will to love another person, wanting only what’s best for them before you even think about what’s best for yourself.
Nothing can stand in the way of this kind of love.
Selfishness-
- can't stand in the way of agape.
The biggest obstacle in you, the biggest obstacle in me, is selfishness—thinking only of how something affects us.
But “love is patient and kind.”
Not selfish.
“Love does not envy or boast,” because it’s not selfish.
“It is not arrogant or rude,” because it’s not selfish.
“It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful,” because it’s not focused on itself.
God’s love in you is a depth of love you can’t produce yourself.
Love conquers selfishness.
Skepticism-
- can't stand in the way of agape.
We say, “I get so tired of you”—but “love bears all things.”
We say, “You’re never going to change. I don’t think you can do it”—but love “believes all things.”
We say, “I just don’t see myself with you anymore. I don’t see how this marriage can last”—but love “hopes all things.”
We say, “I can’t keep going on like this. I can’t do it anymore”—but love “endures all things.”
Agape love refuses to doubt God’s good intentions toward that person’s future. Love conquers skepticism.
Status quo-
- can't stand in the way of agape !
It’s understandable to get discouraged or frustrated at people’s inability or unwillingness to see what they’re doing and how it’s causing pain in others.
But love believes that God’s transforming power is not finished with people yet, whether it’s a spouse, one of our children, a close but difficult friend—or us.
Love prays, perseveres, and holds out for His highest and best.
“It does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth.”
Love conquers the status quo.
You don’t even need to like someone—not every moment anyway—to be able to love her with 1 Corinthians 13 love. You just need to decide, God helping you, that you are going to love that person and do what’s best for him.
No matter what.
Always.
It’s a supernatural thing, this love.
But God can give you the supernatural capacity to do it.
And when He does, there’s nothing in you, and nothing in them, that can stop what this love can accomplish.
"Heavenly Father, thank You for loving me with a perfect, supernatural love. Thank You for being patient, for continuing to bear with me, and for never giving up on me. Thank You, too, for the people You’ve placed in my life that I can love at close range, for giving me the opportunity to influence them deeply through how well I care for them and persevere with them. Love them through me, Lord, with Your agape love. I ask this in the mighty name of Jesus, Amen."
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Wed 30 Oct 2019, 1:10 pm
My Manna
"In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed." 1 Peter 1:6-7.
Every one of us will go through troubling times, and when those times come, it’s easy to get disheartened.
But the Bible indicates that even during periods of challenge and adversity-
God expects His children to respond correctly.
And His Word equips us to do so.
Today’s passage teaches us to rejoice during difficulty!
Of course, this does not mean that we must be glad about the hardship.
But we can be joyful because we know that God is using the circumstances to prepare and grow us.
Although having a positive attitude during a negative situation does not seem logical-
- here are two reasons why doing so makes sense.
First-
Teaching!
The Lord teaches us endurance through the difficult experiences we encounter.
Our natural reaction to pain is to run in the opposite direction—and as fast as possible.
However, God wants us to “hang in there” so we can derive the full benefit of whatever lesson He has for us.
Second-
Training!
The heavenly Father trains us using trials as a refining fire to purify His children and bring them to greater spiritual maturity.
He has a plan for each believer, and hardship is one of the necessary tools that prepare us to do His will.
In the process, we will find that our faith has been strengthened.
As we realize God brings benefit from our adversities-
- we’ll begin to face challenging times with confidence that He always has our best interest in mind.
We can rejoice in the fact that-
He is building our endurance,
- purifying our hearts,
- and making us people with unshakable trust in Him.
"In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed." 1 Peter 1:6-7.
Every one of us will go through troubling times, and when those times come, it’s easy to get disheartened.
But the Bible indicates that even during periods of challenge and adversity-
God expects His children to respond correctly.
And His Word equips us to do so.
Today’s passage teaches us to rejoice during difficulty!
Of course, this does not mean that we must be glad about the hardship.
But we can be joyful because we know that God is using the circumstances to prepare and grow us.
Although having a positive attitude during a negative situation does not seem logical-
- here are two reasons why doing so makes sense.
First-
Teaching!
The Lord teaches us endurance through the difficult experiences we encounter.
Our natural reaction to pain is to run in the opposite direction—and as fast as possible.
However, God wants us to “hang in there” so we can derive the full benefit of whatever lesson He has for us.
Second-
Training!
The heavenly Father trains us using trials as a refining fire to purify His children and bring them to greater spiritual maturity.
He has a plan for each believer, and hardship is one of the necessary tools that prepare us to do His will.
In the process, we will find that our faith has been strengthened.
As we realize God brings benefit from our adversities-
- we’ll begin to face challenging times with confidence that He always has our best interest in mind.
We can rejoice in the fact that-
He is building our endurance,
- purifying our hearts,
- and making us people with unshakable trust in Him.
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Tue 29 Oct 2019, 1:00 am
My Manna
"After the fire there was a voice, a soft whisper." 1 Kings 19:12..
Sometimes we look for God in the wrong places.
We assume there has to be a hundred-voice choir singing before we can hear from God.
We look for God in thunder and lightning, trumpets and billowing smoke.
But that's not always God's way always.
Yes, he can speak through fire or earthquakes or any way he chooses.
But when we hear him whisper, he knows we're really listening.
The hardest thing to do sometimes is to be quiet and listen.
We don't like silence.
We mistakenly assume that God isn't pleased with us unless we're active-
- so we're always looking for things we can do for God.
We confuse stillness (spending quiet time with God) with idleness (doing nothing).
We'd rather be doing something, anything, than sitting still, so we immerse ourselves in noise and activity.
Then we wonder why we don't hear from God.
But God shouldn't have to shout in order to be heard.
He is God!
He shouldn't have to compete with the other noises in our lives.
If we want to hear from God-
- we need to stop making so much noise.
We need to get comfortable being quiet before the Lord-
- doing nothing but reading his Word,
- getting familiar with his Spirit,
- enjoying just being with him.
We must stop our activity long enough to listen for his whisper.
If we're quiet-
- we'll hear it.
What things make the most noise in your life?
Psalm 37:7-11;Isaiah 30:15-18.
"After the fire there was a voice, a soft whisper." 1 Kings 19:12..
Sometimes we look for God in the wrong places.
We assume there has to be a hundred-voice choir singing before we can hear from God.
We look for God in thunder and lightning, trumpets and billowing smoke.
But that's not always God's way always.
Yes, he can speak through fire or earthquakes or any way he chooses.
But when we hear him whisper, he knows we're really listening.
The hardest thing to do sometimes is to be quiet and listen.
We don't like silence.
We mistakenly assume that God isn't pleased with us unless we're active-
- so we're always looking for things we can do for God.
We confuse stillness (spending quiet time with God) with idleness (doing nothing).
We'd rather be doing something, anything, than sitting still, so we immerse ourselves in noise and activity.
Then we wonder why we don't hear from God.
But God shouldn't have to shout in order to be heard.
He is God!
He shouldn't have to compete with the other noises in our lives.
If we want to hear from God-
- we need to stop making so much noise.
We need to get comfortable being quiet before the Lord-
- doing nothing but reading his Word,
- getting familiar with his Spirit,
- enjoying just being with him.
We must stop our activity long enough to listen for his whisper.
If we're quiet-
- we'll hear it.
What things make the most noise in your life?
Psalm 37:7-11;Isaiah 30:15-18.
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Wed 23 Oct 2019, 2:26 pm
My Manna
"I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Saviour, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2:1-4.
Why are people willing to uproot their lives and learn a new language and culture in order to share the good news of Jesus Christ?
For the same reason that those who stay at home should be willing to abandon their comfort zone to tell the gospel story to a neighbour or family member—namely, God’s call.
Whether we bear the title of missionary or not, we are unable to live in the Lord’s will unless we’re involved in mission work.
This universal call is based upon four truths:
1. Man’s spiritual condition.
People are helplessly and hopelessly lost without Christ.
Although most try to manufacture righteousness through good works or a false religion, they inevitably fail.
2. God’s provision.
Knowing man could not save himself, the Father gave His Son in order to pay sin’s penalty.
Whoever calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.
This redemption is available to every man, woman, and child.
3. Jesus’ commission.
All who belong to Jesus are charged with the responsibility of going and making disciples of all nations through the Holy Spirit’s power. Acts 1:8; Matt. 28:19.
The Spirit comes, not to ensure our own happiness, but to make us impactful witnesses.
4. Jesus’ proclamation.
The Lord was clear about this:
“This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.” Matt. 24:14.
Mission work isn't optional for believers.
In Romans 10:14, Paul asks-
“How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard?”
They won’t unless you tell them.
My Manna
"Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to serve alone? So tell her to give me a hand." Luke 10:40.
We often conclude from this story that Martha was the grump-
- while Mary was the one with the pure, simple motives.
But is sitting around always a better choice than working?
What would happen if Christians spent all their time reading the Bible and going to church, but never cleaned their rooms or mowed the grass?
So maybe we're being too hard on Martha...and not completely understanding what Jesus was saying.
Martha was showing her love for Jesus by being a good hostess to him.
No doubt, she wanted to spend time with her Lord as much as Mary did, but someone had to do the work.
Perhaps she thought if her sister would help out, they'd both have time to sit at Jesus' feet and learn from his teaching.
Maybe that's what aggravated Martha the most--hearing the muffled sounds of Jesus' voice in the other room, longing to hear what he was saying, but mad that she was stuck in the kitchen by herself.
So the more she worked, the more agitated she grew.
Finally, she couldn't stand it any more, and she took her frustrations out on Mary.
Jesus knew that both Mary and Martha loved him.
But what Martha didn't know was that she didn't have to prove it to him by constantly working.
Sure, there are times to be busy, but there are also times to stop doing and start listening.
How can your efforts at serving Jesus keep you from spending time with him?
This has got to stop! Pass this on to everyone!
Tue Oct 22, 2019 10:15 pm (PDT) . Posted by:"Rev. Michael D. Inman" n0klu
Your Tax Dollars Used to Merge Mice with Aborted Human Baby Body Parts: 'Abhorrent on so Many Levels'
https://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/politics/2019/october/your-tax-dollars-used-to-merge-mice-with-aborted-human-baby-body-parts-abhorrent-on-so-many-levels
To those groups that strip out links, Our Tax Dollars are being used to mix Human aborted baby parts with animals!
"I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Saviour, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2:1-4.
Why are people willing to uproot their lives and learn a new language and culture in order to share the good news of Jesus Christ?
For the same reason that those who stay at home should be willing to abandon their comfort zone to tell the gospel story to a neighbour or family member—namely, God’s call.
Whether we bear the title of missionary or not, we are unable to live in the Lord’s will unless we’re involved in mission work.
This universal call is based upon four truths:
1. Man’s spiritual condition.
People are helplessly and hopelessly lost without Christ.
Although most try to manufacture righteousness through good works or a false religion, they inevitably fail.
2. God’s provision.
Knowing man could not save himself, the Father gave His Son in order to pay sin’s penalty.
Whoever calls upon the name of the Lord will be saved.
This redemption is available to every man, woman, and child.
3. Jesus’ commission.
All who belong to Jesus are charged with the responsibility of going and making disciples of all nations through the Holy Spirit’s power. Acts 1:8; Matt. 28:19.
The Spirit comes, not to ensure our own happiness, but to make us impactful witnesses.
4. Jesus’ proclamation.
The Lord was clear about this:
“This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come.” Matt. 24:14.
Mission work isn't optional for believers.
In Romans 10:14, Paul asks-
“How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard?”
They won’t unless you tell them.
My Manna
"Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to serve alone? So tell her to give me a hand." Luke 10:40.
We often conclude from this story that Martha was the grump-
- while Mary was the one with the pure, simple motives.
But is sitting around always a better choice than working?
What would happen if Christians spent all their time reading the Bible and going to church, but never cleaned their rooms or mowed the grass?
So maybe we're being too hard on Martha...and not completely understanding what Jesus was saying.
Martha was showing her love for Jesus by being a good hostess to him.
No doubt, she wanted to spend time with her Lord as much as Mary did, but someone had to do the work.
Perhaps she thought if her sister would help out, they'd both have time to sit at Jesus' feet and learn from his teaching.
Maybe that's what aggravated Martha the most--hearing the muffled sounds of Jesus' voice in the other room, longing to hear what he was saying, but mad that she was stuck in the kitchen by herself.
So the more she worked, the more agitated she grew.
Finally, she couldn't stand it any more, and she took her frustrations out on Mary.
Jesus knew that both Mary and Martha loved him.
But what Martha didn't know was that she didn't have to prove it to him by constantly working.
Sure, there are times to be busy, but there are also times to stop doing and start listening.
How can your efforts at serving Jesus keep you from spending time with him?
This has got to stop! Pass this on to everyone!
Tue Oct 22, 2019 10:15 pm (PDT) . Posted by:"Rev. Michael D. Inman" n0klu
Your Tax Dollars Used to Merge Mice with Aborted Human Baby Body Parts: 'Abhorrent on so Many Levels'
https://www1.cbn.com/cbnnews/politics/2019/october/your-tax-dollars-used-to-merge-mice-with-aborted-human-baby-body-parts-abhorrent-on-so-many-levels
To those groups that strip out links, Our Tax Dollars are being used to mix Human aborted baby parts with animals!
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Mon 21 Oct 2019, 12:18 am
My Manna
"After the fire there was a voice, a soft whisper." 1 Kings 19:12.
Sometimes we look for God in the wrong places.
We assume there has to be a hundred-voice choir singing before we can hear from God.
We look for God in thunder and lightning, trumpets and billowing smoke.
But that's not always God's way always.
Yes, he can speak through fire or earthquakes or any way he chooses.
But when we hear him whisper, he knows we're really listening.
The hardest thing to do sometimes is to be quiet and listen.
We don't like silence.
We mistakenly assume that God isn't pleased with us unless we're active-
- so we're always looking for things we can do for God.
We confuse stillness (spending quiet time with God) with idleness (doing nothing).
We'd rather be doing something, anything, than sitting still, so we immerse ourselves in noise and activity.
Then we wonder why we don't hear from God.
But God shouldn't have to shout in order to be heard.
He is God!
He shouldn't have to compete with the other noises in our lives.
If we want to hear from God-
- we need to stop making so much noise.
We need to get comfortable being quiet before the Lord-
- doing nothing but reading his Word,
- getting familiar with his Spirit,
- enjoying just being with him.
We must stop our activity long enough to listen for his whisper.
If we're quiet-
- we'll hear it.
What things make the most noise in your life?
Psalm 37:7-11;Isaiah 30:15-18.
"After the fire there was a voice, a soft whisper." 1 Kings 19:12.
Sometimes we look for God in the wrong places.
We assume there has to be a hundred-voice choir singing before we can hear from God.
We look for God in thunder and lightning, trumpets and billowing smoke.
But that's not always God's way always.
Yes, he can speak through fire or earthquakes or any way he chooses.
But when we hear him whisper, he knows we're really listening.
The hardest thing to do sometimes is to be quiet and listen.
We don't like silence.
We mistakenly assume that God isn't pleased with us unless we're active-
- so we're always looking for things we can do for God.
We confuse stillness (spending quiet time with God) with idleness (doing nothing).
We'd rather be doing something, anything, than sitting still, so we immerse ourselves in noise and activity.
Then we wonder why we don't hear from God.
But God shouldn't have to shout in order to be heard.
He is God!
He shouldn't have to compete with the other noises in our lives.
If we want to hear from God-
- we need to stop making so much noise.
We need to get comfortable being quiet before the Lord-
- doing nothing but reading his Word,
- getting familiar with his Spirit,
- enjoying just being with him.
We must stop our activity long enough to listen for his whisper.
If we're quiet-
- we'll hear it.
What things make the most noise in your life?
Psalm 37:7-11;Isaiah 30:15-18.
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Fri 18 Oct 2019, 7:53 pm
God's heart!
No condemnation now exists for those in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1.
Paul knew something about condemnation.
He had been responsible for the torturous deaths of devout Christians, including the martyr Stephen.
He had condemned many others to imprisonment.
And now, as a Christian, Paul had to live forever with the memories of what he'd done.
No matter how many good things he did for the sake of Jesus Christ-
Paul could never undo the treacherous acts he'd committed as a zealous but misguided Pharisee.
How could he live with himself?
How could he stand the shame of knowing that he'd been such a sinner?
There was only one way:
Paul understood God's heart!
The great news for Christians is that God does not condemn the repentant sinner.
Salvation through Jesus Christ wipes away the guilt and shame of even the most hardened rebel.
Once we repent of our sin and confess it to God, he throws it away.
He doesn't hold it against us.
As far as God is concerned, it never happened.
If you've been carrying the weight of guilt and shame over something you've done, now is the time to take it to God.
Confess your sin to him, leave it with Jesus, and walk away from it.
Experience the truth that Paul understood, and take joy in the reality that you are clean, pure, and forgiven in God's
No condemnation now exists for those in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1.
Paul knew something about condemnation.
He had been responsible for the torturous deaths of devout Christians, including the martyr Stephen.
He had condemned many others to imprisonment.
And now, as a Christian, Paul had to live forever with the memories of what he'd done.
No matter how many good things he did for the sake of Jesus Christ-
Paul could never undo the treacherous acts he'd committed as a zealous but misguided Pharisee.
How could he live with himself?
How could he stand the shame of knowing that he'd been such a sinner?
There was only one way:
Paul understood God's heart!
The great news for Christians is that God does not condemn the repentant sinner.
Salvation through Jesus Christ wipes away the guilt and shame of even the most hardened rebel.
Once we repent of our sin and confess it to God, he throws it away.
He doesn't hold it against us.
As far as God is concerned, it never happened.
If you've been carrying the weight of guilt and shame over something you've done, now is the time to take it to God.
Confess your sin to him, leave it with Jesus, and walk away from it.
Experience the truth that Paul understood, and take joy in the reality that you are clean, pure, and forgiven in God's
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Tue 15 Oct 2019, 10:55 pm
My Manna
"The Lord will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly." Psalm 84:11.
If God has promised to provide and is able-
- we might wonder why He doesn't always meet our needs when we ask.
But since He is faithful to His Word-
- we can know that the problem is never with Him.
Notice that in today’s passage-
God’s promise to provide has a condition—it is given to “those who walk uprightly.” v. 11.
So if God isn't meeting our needs as we think He should-
- either He may have a different plan,
- or something in our life may be a hindrance.
Sin!
One reason our prayers may not be answered is because there’s sin in our life and we are not living righteously.
If God ignored disobedience and granted our requests-
He would be affirming an unrighteous lifestyle.
Slothfulness!
Although the Lord is the ultimate source of all we have-
He has given us the responsibility of working in order to provide for our basic necessities. 2 Thess. 3:10-11.
If you’re a capable, able-bodied person who’s unwilling to work and wants something for nothing-
God won’t reinforce your laziness.
Selfishness!
It’s possible that the Lord hasn't provided as you expected because your “needs” are really selfish desires.
If He sees that what you want won’t fulfill His plans for your life-
He may be saying “no” because He has a “yes” that’s even better.
To avoid disappointment with God-
- understand that His actions and character always align.
He won’t reward rebellion or laziness, and His answers to prayer fit with His goal of conforming us to Christ’s image.
So if He hasn't provided what you deem essential-
He’s working to bestow a better blessing!
"The Lord will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly." Psalm 84:11.
If God has promised to provide and is able-
- we might wonder why He doesn't always meet our needs when we ask.
But since He is faithful to His Word-
- we can know that the problem is never with Him.
Notice that in today’s passage-
God’s promise to provide has a condition—it is given to “those who walk uprightly.” v. 11.
So if God isn't meeting our needs as we think He should-
- either He may have a different plan,
- or something in our life may be a hindrance.
Sin!
One reason our prayers may not be answered is because there’s sin in our life and we are not living righteously.
If God ignored disobedience and granted our requests-
He would be affirming an unrighteous lifestyle.
Slothfulness!
Although the Lord is the ultimate source of all we have-
He has given us the responsibility of working in order to provide for our basic necessities. 2 Thess. 3:10-11.
If you’re a capable, able-bodied person who’s unwilling to work and wants something for nothing-
God won’t reinforce your laziness.
Selfishness!
It’s possible that the Lord hasn't provided as you expected because your “needs” are really selfish desires.
If He sees that what you want won’t fulfill His plans for your life-
He may be saying “no” because He has a “yes” that’s even better.
To avoid disappointment with God-
- understand that His actions and character always align.
He won’t reward rebellion or laziness, and His answers to prayer fit with His goal of conforming us to Christ’s image.
So if He hasn't provided what you deem essential-
He’s working to bestow a better blessing!
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Thu 10 Oct 2019, 10:38 pm
My Manna
Since eternity past and throughout history-
-the Almighty God has ruled with supreme authority !
Nothing is hidden from His knowledge or beyond the scope of His control.
Because of His sovereignty-
- we who by faith in Christ are part of His family can live with assurance that:
God performs for our good.
Scripture declares that God has the power to work every circumstance in our life into something that is beneficial in His eyes.
He has the knowledge and power to accomplish it, as well as the desire.
God promises to do this for those who love and belong to Him. Our part is to believe.
God protects us every day.
Scripture declares that “the angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him.” Ps. 34:7.
Apart from His permissive will, nothing can touch God’s children.
When our Father allows painful things to happen, we must trust in His unchanging nature and enduring promises.
People and circumstances change-
- but the Lord’s good and loving character does not.
God plans our future.
He’s fully worked out a plan for the body of Christ and each of its members—a plan so good that it is beyond imagining. 1 Cor. 2:9.
We can entrust our future to God because His character and plans are perfect.
Resting in the Lord’s sovereignty will free us from fear and anxiety.
If you lack assurance about any of the points listed above-
- confess your unbelief to the heavenly Father.
Ask His forgiveness, and commit to meditate on His character and promises.
Then you will experience the strengthening of your faith.
Since eternity past and throughout history-
-the Almighty God has ruled with supreme authority !
Nothing is hidden from His knowledge or beyond the scope of His control.
Because of His sovereignty-
- we who by faith in Christ are part of His family can live with assurance that:
God performs for our good.
Scripture declares that God has the power to work every circumstance in our life into something that is beneficial in His eyes.
He has the knowledge and power to accomplish it, as well as the desire.
God promises to do this for those who love and belong to Him. Our part is to believe.
God protects us every day.
Scripture declares that “the angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him.” Ps. 34:7.
Apart from His permissive will, nothing can touch God’s children.
When our Father allows painful things to happen, we must trust in His unchanging nature and enduring promises.
People and circumstances change-
- but the Lord’s good and loving character does not.
God plans our future.
He’s fully worked out a plan for the body of Christ and each of its members—a plan so good that it is beyond imagining. 1 Cor. 2:9.
We can entrust our future to God because His character and plans are perfect.
Resting in the Lord’s sovereignty will free us from fear and anxiety.
If you lack assurance about any of the points listed above-
- confess your unbelief to the heavenly Father.
Ask His forgiveness, and commit to meditate on His character and promises.
Then you will experience the strengthening of your faith.
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
Re: My Manna
Admin Tue 08 Oct 2019, 7:04 pm
My Manna
"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." 1 Peter 2:9.
Sometimes, even believers have trouble remembering their purpose in life.
In the busyness of our day-to-day activities-
- it is rather easy to forget how wonderfully and purposefully designed we are in the eyes of our Creator.
Yet 1 Peter 2:9-10 brings our focus back to God, showing us that He made us to be-
1. A chosen race.
You did not have to fight for a place in the house of the Lord.
Instead, He chose you.
The God of the universe actively sought you out because He wanted an unending relationship with you.
You were selected by God Himself!
2. A royal priesthood.
In the days of the Old Testament, a king could not be a priest, and a priest could not be a king.
The two offices were separate and distinct.
However, in Christ, God has called every believer into a new category.
We are now sons and daughters of the King, and we have unrestricted, intimate access to almighty God.
We are royal priests.
3. A holy nation.
The word holy simply means “set apart.”
The Holy Spirit has sealed all believers as children of God. Eph. 4:30.
And nothing can ever dissolve their relationship with the Father.
4. God’s own possession.
Do you realize how valuable you are to the heavenly Father?
You are worth so much to Him that He purchased your eternal salvation at great cost:
the life of His only Son. 1 Cor. 6:20.
Nothing about you takes our omniscient, omnipotent, omnipresent God by surprise.
He made you to be His representative in the world and therefore knows you completely.
Does your life reflect your God-given position?
"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." 1 Peter 2:9.
Sometimes, even believers have trouble remembering their purpose in life.
In the busyness of our day-to-day activities-
- it is rather easy to forget how wonderfully and purposefully designed we are in the eyes of our Creator.
Yet 1 Peter 2:9-10 brings our focus back to God, showing us that He made us to be-
1. A chosen race.
You did not have to fight for a place in the house of the Lord.
Instead, He chose you.
The God of the universe actively sought you out because He wanted an unending relationship with you.
You were selected by God Himself!
2. A royal priesthood.
In the days of the Old Testament, a king could not be a priest, and a priest could not be a king.
The two offices were separate and distinct.
However, in Christ, God has called every believer into a new category.
We are now sons and daughters of the King, and we have unrestricted, intimate access to almighty God.
We are royal priests.
3. A holy nation.
The word holy simply means “set apart.”
The Holy Spirit has sealed all believers as children of God. Eph. 4:30.
And nothing can ever dissolve their relationship with the Father.
4. God’s own possession.
Do you realize how valuable you are to the heavenly Father?
You are worth so much to Him that He purchased your eternal salvation at great cost:
the life of His only Son. 1 Cor. 6:20.
Nothing about you takes our omniscient, omnipotent, omnipresent God by surprise.
He made you to be His representative in the world and therefore knows you completely.
Does your life reflect your God-given position?
Admin- Admin
- Posts : 81724
Join date : 2008-10-25
Age : 79
Location : Wales UK -
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