The Paths of Righteousness- Julia Chastain

“He leads me in paths of righteousness for His Name’s sake.” Ps. 23:4b (NIV)

I was reading a series of books recently about a quest in another world, and the main character had to search through all these old prophecies to find the clues he needed to know the next step in his journey. He traveled all over the world with his closest friends, following the clues and figuring out the riddles until he finally got to the end of his quest and found what he was looking for. At one point in the story, he asked the question, “Why is it so hard to find our next clue? Why can’t someone just tell us clearly where we’re supposed to go and what we’re supposed to do?” The answer he was given? If the prophecies had been more clear and understandable, then anyone could have found what he was seeking, but he was the only one who was supposed to find the clues, so he was obliged to search them out and study their meanings. Needless to say, that lessened his frustration only a little. I am so glad that God doesn’t do that to us.

Psalm 23, the Shepherd’s Psalm, is a song David wrote describing God’s loving care of His children. David talks about God’s providence of physical and spiritual needs, His protection in the face of death and in the presence of one’s enemies, and David’s own assurance of God’s continued blessings throughout his own life. But there’s a verse in the middle of that psalm that really got me thinking: “He leads me in paths of righteousness for His Name’s sake” (Ps. 23:4b) God’s guidance extends, not just to our needs, but also to our deeds. The term “paths of righteousness” refers to the way we live our lives—many times the Bible compares our lifestyle to a walk, a path or a road. In Genesis 5-6, both Enoch and Noah were described as men who “walked with God”, implying a close relationship with the Father that was visible to those around them because of their lifestyle. Numerous times in the New Testament, our lifestyle is described in terms of a “walk”, a way that we travel: Ephesians 5:2 tells us to “walk in love, as Christ also has loved us”; in Philippian 3:17-18 we are encouraged to follow the example of those who walk in the path laid out by the apostles and avoid those who walk as enemies of Christ; and in Colossians 3:7-8 and 4:5 we are instructed to no longer walk in the ways of the world and sinfulness, but instead to “walk in wisdom” around those who do not know the love of Christ (KJV). And then, of course, there are the numerous times the Apostle Paul referred to his life as a race in which he was running to win the prize (Phil. 3:12-14, II Tim. 4:6-8, Heb. 12:1).

My point in all this is that the Bible gives us ample instruction on how to walk through our daily lives; as we read and study God’s Word, the Holy Spirit speaks to our hearts, teaching us the right way to live. What’s interesting is the reason He gives us this guidance—“for His Name’s sake”. Over the years I’ve noticed that you can tell who or what anybody worships by the way he/she lives his/her life and the things he/she says and does—if his god is money, for example, he’s going to spend all his time making, saving and stockpiling it; if her god is herself, everything she does will be to push herself forward and make herself appear better to others. Extreme examples could include the Manson gang or the worshipers of the Indian goddess of death, Kali Durga—both groups routinely murdered innocent people because of their belief systems. Just so, as Christians, our actions reflect on our Savior, and because our God cares about the way His children act, He gives them guidance and instruction on how to live in a way that pleases Him and reflects on Who He is intrinsically. We don’t have to go searching for clues and figuring out riddles like the hero in the book I read did; God spells out exactly what He wants His children to do in His Word.

When we follow God’s guidance, we become shining witnesses of the God that we serve. This for a Christian is one of our greatest defenses against a wicked and unbelieving world, for as the Apostle Peter told the suffering Christians in the first century, “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us” (I Pet. 2:12), and having kept “a clear conscience, …those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander” (3:16). I’m reminded of Daniel in the Old Testament who lived such a blameless life, that when his enemies wanted to bring charges against him, the only thing they could find to accuse him with was his faith in Jehovah God (Dan. 6:4-5). He is a good example to the rest of us on how to walk the paths of righteousness David was talking about.

Of course, the opposite is also true—when we choose to disobey God’s instructions in the Bible, we slander Christ’s name and run the danger of reaping the consequences of sin in our lives. Two examples that come to mind immediately are King Saul and Ananias and Sapphira. King Saul was given specific instructions to exterminate a group of people who had disregarded the Lord and been a plague and a thorn in the side of Israel for some time, but he chose to disobey his orders and allow certain valuable people (think ransom) and animals (think growing one’s personal wealth) to survive. This single act of disobedience cost him his kingship and his relationship with God; after all, a man who refuses to listen to God cannot really have a relationship with Him, can he? Ananias and Sapphira were two Christians in the first church of Jerusalem who chose to lie to the church elders (a.k.a. the apostles) in order to appear more generous to the church than they actually had been. Peter told them quite bluntly in Acts 5:3-4, “You have not lied to men, but to God!”, at which point they each fell down dead at his feet! If they had been allowed to live after lying like that, others might have followed their terrible example and caused great hurt to the name of Christ in that fledgling church, hence the severity of their punishment. Perhaps these are extreme examples, but it doesn’t take a genius to figure out the consequences for disobeying the command to avoid sex outside of marriage or to abstain from stealing or lying or coveting. I heard someone say once that if God is our Creator/Inventor, then the Bible is our instruction manual on how to make the machinery run most smoothly, and so it follows that if we want our lives to run smoothly without all the drama and stress caused by sin, then it behooves us to follow the directions God has given us in His Word.

The thing is, God wants that even more for His children than they want it for themselves; that’s why He gave us the instructions in the first place. “He leads [us] in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake”, but not just because He cares about the reputation we give Him—He also cares deeply for us. He wants to prevent all the heartache and physical and emotional fallout that sin brings into our lives, so that we can, as Jesus said in John 10:10, “have life to the fullest.” This is why He becomes, as Isaiah 30:21 states, “a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” He is the inner voice of our conscience, telling us when we’re about to make a mistake or make the wrong decision, and if we listen to Him, we will find ourselves guided into those paths of righteousness where there is goodness and mercy and where we can “dwell in the house of the LORD forever” (Ps. 23:6). That is truly the path to joy.

Abstinence, Accidents, and Amazing Grace

Last week, my oldest brought a mechanical baby home as part of his course of study in FACS (Family and Consumer Science). Now, I totally took advantage of the situation, documenting the event with pictures and humorous captions I posted on social media. My excitement was through the roof. Why? Three reason.

First, even though this lesson was for my son, God was using it to speak to me.

Second, because my son is not overly fond of small offspring and for him to be the sole caretaker of one, even for a few days, just tickles my funny bone.

Third, I chose to use that humor as a tool, hopefully embarrassing him enough that he’ll remain abstinent until he’s 50!

 Okay, that may be a touch dramatic, but nevertheless, the sense of the statement remains. One of the points of having to simulate the care of a newborn with feeding, diapering, rocking, and burping is to encourage abstinence in these young adults by showing them exactly what they’re up against when their few minutes of pleasure turns into a lifelong commitment.

Which leads me to the point of this whole post… What if, after all the conversations, all the biblical (1 Thess. 4:3,7) and moral teachings about why abstinence until you’re married is so vital, and an  “accident” happens? When a new life, who didn’t asked to be conceived to two underage, unwed, far from ready children, becomes a reality? It begs the question, how would I/will I/should I respond, not just as a parent who finds themselves in that situation, but foremost as a Christian.

First, I think we, as Christian parents and adults need to step outside of that role and remember that since our salvation, our titles as mother/father, friend, and family member, come only second to that as Child of God. Any and all reactions to the situation should be dealt with as such; offering compassion, love, and amazing grace that Jesus so freely bestowed and demonstrated for us all. We need to remember that as Christians, our actions are what both pull people to God and push them away!

In my opinion, it is this lack of Christian empathy, understanding, and sin-filled sense of superiority (your sin is worse than my sin- mentality) that has allowed the evil of Satan, in the form of abortion clinics like Planned Parenthood to gain such a foothold in our society.

Why is that?

It’s because we have failed! Those of us who call ourselves Christians have failed! Those of us who claim a place in the church and among God’s family, have failed!

Sure, Satan has been hard at work destroying the foundation of family for years (just look at Adam and Eve), but for the love of all that is holy, we Christians have been his cohorts in crime for centuries.

Those of us who have remained silent by choosing to live out our faith in private instead of public- allowing legislation that legalizes murder to be passed. Those of us whose damming silence and dirty looks push that young girl into ending the life she carries because she cares more for the thoughts of strangers than for that baby. Those of us who choose condemnation over compassion by destroying the support system that that young girl should be able to depend on, leaving her nowhere to turn. Or those who refuse to step into the role of supporting parent instead choosing to save face and encourage the “easy way” out. Those of us women who ARE old enough to support a new life on our own, yet too selfish to take responsibility for our actions and put the needs of a small life ahead of our own needs/wants by placing them with a well chosen family who would love for nothing more than to open their hearts and homes to the life you would kill.

We’ve deluded ourselves and society into thinking that these “accidents” have to be remedied, instead of seeing them for what they are. A part of God’s plan!

Now, I am not condoning, nor encouraging teenage/unplanned pregnancy no matter the age- all I am doing is trying to look at a reoccurring situation from a godly point of view. God wants us to practice abstinence and remain celibate until marriage, but in his His infinite foresight, He knows many of us will CHOOSE not too. Understanding this, let me ask you a question. Does God make mistakes? We call unplanned pregnancies “accidents”, refer to some these babies as “whoops babies”. But are they really?

To answer this question, we need to have a clear understanding of God, who He is and what He is capable of.

In 2 Samuel 22:31, David proclaims, “As for God, His way is perfect.”

Psalm 29:4- “The voice of the LORD is powerful ; The voice of the LORD is full of majesty.”

Psalm 147:5- “Great is our LORD, and of great power: His understanding is infinite”

If any man made mistakes in his life, it was David!

Deuteronomy 32:4- “He is the Rock, His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He.”

Nehemiah 9:6- “Thou, even thou, art LORD alone; thou hast made heaven, the heaven of heavens, with all their host, the earth, and all things that are there in, the seas, and all that is therein, and thou preservest them all; and the host of heaven worshippeth thee.”

By now, you should be realizing that even though we make mistakes, God doesn’t. He’s not capable of it. The same God who created the stars, the heavens, and the angels, created you, me, and those “accidents”.

So the next time we come across an unwed/underage parent, or find ourselves in a similar situation (or even dissimilar situation), we need to remember…

God doesn’t make mistakes; He makes witnesses.

He created us to be witnesses of His love, to testify of His amazing grace, to embody His message of forgiveness, compassion, and exhortation. To bring other to Him so that they may have eternal life. Our actions reflect our testimony and it is by our actions that not only could a physical life be saved, but a spiritual life as well.

The Yellow Cur

The Yellow Cur

By Julia Chastain

I finished a new book last night that really got me thinking. In the story, the hero, John Guido, and the heroine, Amaryllis, had loved each other since childhood, but John Guido had been abroad studying music for many years. Now he was coming home when they were both all grown up, and anticipation was at a height. Amaryllis learned that her brother Peter was returning from college in England on the same boat that John Guido and his father were on, and she encouraged Peter to become friends with John Guido without telling him why, thinking to introduce him to her family this way. Peter took to John Guido right away and invited him to go on a boating trip the next week with him and his friends, kind of a vacation before they jump back into work as it were. John Guido, never having been on a yacht, was excited to accept, his only concern that he wouldn’t get to see Amaryllis as soon, but his father urged him to go, thinking it would be good for him to make friends outside of the music world. Then disaster—the engine exploded, the boat went down off the coast of Maine, and everyone on board was lost. As soon as Amaryllis saw the newspaper, she went at once to John’s father, Mr. Forrester, awash with grief and guilt to tell him the terrible news. She thought it was her fault that John Guido had died because she introduced him to her brother causing him to be invited on the trip. Mr. Forrester said, no, it was his fault because he urged John Guido to go when he wasn’t sure. As they were comforting each other on their losses, they suddenly heard a familiar whistle in the garden outside—it was John Guido walking up the walk! He knew nothing about the accident, explaining that he had been on the boat, but remembered he had a letter his father wanted him to mail and got off quickly to mail it. Before he could return to the boat, he saw a stray dog injured when a freight box fell on it on the docks, and he stopped to bandage it up. The boat left without him, and though he was at first understandably upset, he eventually decided it was for the best, as he really wanted to just get home and see Amaryllis. So he brought the dog home with him, a “yellow cur” as he called it, blaming it for his rotten luck. Of course, when he realized what that yellow cur had saved him from, he didn’t think it was such bad luck after all.

                The word “cur” is not a word you hear a lot these days (the book was written in the early 1900s); it means “a mangy, scrawny mutt of indeterminate origin”—the implication is something that is ugly, unsightly, and unwanted. Because the attitude of these stray dogs is generally hostile, cowardly and sneaky around humans, the word came to describe anyone who was hostile, cowardly, or sneaky. It is not a complimentary word. And yet it was this very thing, something seemingly insignificant and inconvenient at best that saved John Guido’s life. It made me think of all those times you hear about someone having a flat tire and thereby missing the fatal crash that happened up ahead, or forgetting something and turning around to get it, missing the accident that would have killed them if they had been in it. Or the classic—the man who was running late for work the morning the Twin Towers fell. We tend to curse these delays and mishaps because they ruin our plans for the day, and yet hindsight often provides a different perspective, and we can see the hand of God protecting us and working in our lives. Romans 8:28 says, “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 (NIV).” This means that everything that happens in our lives, good or bad, according to plan or horribly inconvenient, is a part of God’s plan, and He is using it for our good to bring glory to His name. It’s easy to stress when things don’t happen the way we think they should, but we need to instead take a step back and try to see things from heaven’s perspective. We can’t always see the big picture, but we can trust that God has a reason for setbacks and delays and that in the right time His will, not ours, will be accomplished. And His will for us is always good (Jer. 29:11). So the next time a yellow cur comes into your life, don’t curse it or rail at the inconvenience; instead, thank God that He is able to turn what seems to be bad into something good, and you just might be amazed at what God can do.

Perfect Love- Part 1

Perfect Love- Part 1- By Julia Chastain

I was listening to a CD of secular love songs the other day (if you must know, it was the soundtrack for Shrek), and I was suddenly struck by how much alike the songs all were in their message about romantic love—how it should feel, what it should look like, etc. It should feel amazing, knock you off your feet, at last you’ve met your soul mate, the one who completes you, etc., etc. It should make you want to tear your clothes off and the other person’s as well and get in bed together and have fun. It’s the same message that secular romance novels have about love by and large, especially the soul mate and the sex part. And I have a problem with that.

Now, I enjoy a good romance as much as the next female—I read romance novels, secular and Christian, I enjoy the occasional chick flick (I have pity on my husband most of the time ), and I listen to the occasional love song (witness the other day). And over the years I have noticed this recurring theme—how when you fall in love that person is supposed to complete you, become your be-all and end-all, fill in all the empty spaces that were so lonely before, and you’ll never be alone again. Sounds wonderful, doesn’t it? After all, it’s what everybody’s looking for! I would be willing4 to bet that a good majority of Americans today believe that that is what love is. But they’d be wrong—that is just a myth.

I’m not saying that true love doesn’t exist or that there isn’t somebody special out there for everyone in the world—true love does exist and there probably is somebody special out there for most people (some people are just not meant to be married)—but to quote Veggietales Duke and the Great Pie War: “True love’s a little different than you’d expect!” The problem with that view of romantic love is that it doesn’t take into account that humans are fallible, imperfect and undependable at times. Even the most well-intentioned lover is going to mess up at some point and fail his or her significant other. Those you love the most will hurt you sooner or later, will get too busy for you, will find other things that interest them more, even if only temporarily, and will in a thousand and more ways prove that they are incapable of being absolutely everything to and for you. They are, after all, only human. To be more than that is physically impossible for us—we are not perfect creatures.

But I think the expectation of that perfect love from an imperfect partner may be at the root of a great many divorces. People go into marriage naively believing that everything will be perfect now, “I’ve got the love of my life, he or she understands me and what I need to be happy, he or she makes me happy, we’re soul mates, etc.”, and then when things go wrong, don’t go as planned, when their spouse doesn’t meet their expectations, they start rationalizing, “Maybe this person isn’t my soul mate, maybe we aren’t  meant to be together, this just isn’t working, I need to get out of this marriage and find someone who really, truly loves me.” I’m not saying this is the root of all divorces—some people really, truly have problem marriages and see divorce as the only way to solve their problems, but I do wonder how many marriages could be saved if the couples involved understood what true love is and understood Who is truly supposed to be the center of their lives.

The thing is, we really do have an empty, lonely place in our hearts that is seeking the perfect thing to fill it, only you’ll never find anything in this world that is the right fit. Ecclesiastes 3:10b says, “He [God] has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.” As the song says, “There’s a God-shaped hole in all our hearts”, and only God can fill that emptiness inside. “For in Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28). God put that emptiness in our hearts so we would seek Him, and while another human being may give us a sense of temporary completion, only God can truly fill that hole with eternal joy and completion.

Depression and Christians

How do we keep going when things are bad?

Just because we are saved children of God does not make us immune from bouts of depression.

In Psalms 22 we find David battling against depression.

“My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? Why art thou so far from helping me, and form the words of my roaring? O my God, I cry in the daytime, but thou hearest not; And in the night season, and am not silent….”

The footnotes of my study bible say this about the psalm, "The anguished prayer of David as a godly sufferer victimized by the vicious and prolonged attacks of enemies who he has not provoked and from whom the Lord has not (yet) delivered him... No other psalm fitted quite so aptly the circumstances of Jesus at His crucifixion."

It goes on to say that verses12-18 describe “the palmist’s deep distress… he describes his inner sense of powerlessness under their fierce attacks. The reference to his thirst (v. 15), the piercing of his hands and feet (v. 16), and casting lots for his robe (v. 18) all point prophetically to the crucifixion of Christ ten centuries later.”

Also of note, Jesus spoke the same words as he hung on the cross. “ELI, ELI, LAMA, SABACHTHANI? that is to say, My God, my God, why has thou forsaken me?”- Matt. 27:46 and Mark 15:34.

Salvation, faith, and trust in God does not relieve us of the burdens of doubt and depression, just as it does not relieve us of our trials and tribulations. We are going to have days like David had, it’s inevitable, as we question and wonder where God is while we’re in our mess.

In Luke 10:38, we are introduced to Mary and Martha.

Martha, who was more concerned with physical things, wanting her sister’s help in making the house ready during Jesus’ visit, then she was with the actual visit. Mary, who was more concerned with spiritual things, eagerly sitting at Jesus’ feet as she listen to Him speak.

From this description of each woman’s character, you would think that when times got tough, it would be Mary who would stand fast and not question Jesus’ actions.

John 11:11 tell us differently, as Mary and Martha’s summons for Jesus’s aid for a sick Lazarus went unanswered, resulting in his death.

For moment, put yourself in Mary and Martha’s shoes. Just as David did, and just as we do, they cried out for Jesus’ help during a dark time, knowing He was the only one who could help them. How do we feel when our prayers seem to go unanswered? Let down, forgotten, disheartened. Mary and Martha were both feeling these things, as is evident in verses 20-32.

“Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was coming, went and met him: but Mary sat still in the house. Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died. But I know that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of God, God will give it thee.

         

Jesus said unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.

Martha saith unto Him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.

Jesus said unto her. I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?

She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.”

With these words Martha declares her faith.

“And when she had so said, she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Master is come, and calleth for thee.

As soon as she heard that, she arose quickly, and came unto him.

Now, Jesus was not yet come into the town, but was in that place where Martha met him.

The Jews then which were with her in the house, and comforted her, when tjhey saw Mary, that she rose up hastily and went out, followed her, saying, She goeth unto the grace to weep there.

Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord if thou hadst been here, my brother had not died.”

From what we already know of Mary, we would have figured that she should have been able to better handle the trial she was facing with her brother’s death. But even the most devoted can be sidetracked by depression, pain, hurt, and loss.

“When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came wth her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled,

And said, Where have ye laid him? They say unto him, Lord, come and see.

Jesus wept.”

What we all need to keep in mind is that, absolutely nothing happens that Jesus is not involved in. He is with us during our highs and lows and He will see us through.

How we deal with the depression and anxiety is key.

We can’t stay in that mode. We have to remember that we still serve an amazing God. A God who cares, is still in control, and is just as much by our side as he was in the lion’s den, Nebuchadnezzar’s fiery furnace, and with Mary and Martha as they wept over the death of their brother Lazarus. A God who will not be bound by deals and our promises.

We have to put our problems in Jesus’ hand, trust Him, and give Him praise as David did in Psalm 23.

“The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pasture: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the calley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: And I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.”

Be of Good Cheer

“And behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus seeing their faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.” 

Matthew 9:1- KJV

What does a lost sinner see when they look at you?

Are you moping about, sad with a drawn face, constantly complaining? If so, why would a lost sinner look at you and think, gosh, it’s good to be a child of God! Why would they in turn want to take hold of the salvation Jesus offers?

Truth is, they wouldn’t.

As Christians, we need to keep in mind that our outer emotions and actions speak just as loud as our words when trying to bring the lost sinner to Christ.

We need to be shouting our good cheer from the roof tops; telling everyone we come in contact with of the amazing saving grace found in Jesus and the forgiveness that is offered for our sins by His shed blood.

We need to be giving praise; falling down on our knees in the worship of Jesus, the only one who can pronounce and provide forgiveness from our sins.

Sins which can paralyses us both spiritually and physically.

When the saved sinner sins, we cannot lose our salvation; but every moment of every day we need to be asking for forgiveness. And when our sins cause us to walk away from God, all we have to do is turn, repenting from that sin, and run back into God’s waiting arms.

“Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.” Hebrews 9:12- KJV

“How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?” Hebrews 9:14 KJV

Eternal redemption and eternal life is provided by Jesus’ perfect sacrifice and shed blood, fulfilled by the promissory note of the Holy Spirit, and proved by our faith.

 Like the faith possessed by the men who brought the man sick of the palsy to Jesus. But the most important thing we need to realize and keep in mind is that when our faith is in Jesus, our physical healing doesn’t matter when compared to the healing of our spirituality. Undergoing a physical healing won’t get you into heaven, but having a change in your spirituality will.

By healing the sick man and preforming miracles, Jesus was giving us physical proof that He is God and He has the power to offer and deliver our forgiveness.

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose.”- Romans 8:28- KJV

With God, He can make bad things into good. He has the ultimate power to do what we need Him to do and for that, we should be of good cheer. 
We just have to trust Him and have faith in His will.

Christ In You

I'm not sure I should be posting this on social media, given I might start a backlash with unintended consequences. But as a Christian, I feel we should acknowledge when others do something right in a world that frowns on displays of Christian faith.

I'd like to give a public shout out to the entire staff working today at Whataburger. It's been a long time since I've eaten there, much less dined in, but today I had an awesome experience. From the time we walked in, the place was clean, the cashier and server polite and friendly as they took our order and brought it to us at our table. Any other day, this wonderful service might have gone unmentioned- chalked up to another meal at another fast food restaurant- until I heard what was playing on the radio as I sat there munching on my Double Meat Whataburger Jr. CHRISTIAN music! I listened with half an ear to the first song as it caught my attention, listened to the second- thought it sounded like Britt Nicole, Francesca Battistelli, or Barlow Girl,I wasn’t sure, but I WAS listening. To the third, and to the fourth, which by now, I knew it wasn’t a fluke. WOW!

As I sat there, floored, I knew I had to say something.

How could I possibly let an opportunity to acknowledge this business for being brave enough to praise God pass? If I myself wasn’t brave enough to speak of their courage, who would be?

Making sure I had my receipt before we left, we gathered our trash and as we were going out the door I let the cashier know how great the music was. But I didn’t stop there. As soon as I got home I called the Whataburger 800 number. I’m pretty sure I surprised the operator when I let him know I wasn’t calling to complain, but to compliment. To give praise to a business that wasn’t afraid to testify of God’s love and salvation by way of the soft sounds that drifted through the overhead speakers. I posted a brief snippet of my thanks on Twitter and now here on this blog.

Now, I don’t know the title of all the songs that were playing or the names of their singers, but I do know that the same song that was playing in the restaurant as I was leaving, was playing on 93.7 WDJC on my car when I cranked it- Jeremy Camp, Christ In Me.

“So come and empty me 

So that it's you I breathe

I want my life to be 

Only Christ in me 

So I will fix my eyes

'Cause you're my source of life 

I need the world to see

That it's Christ in me”

So tell me, in this day and age when prophecy is being fulfilled before our very eyes, when Christian faith and values are being persecuted at an astonishing rate, can others see Christ in you?

I could in Whataburger and its employees.

Was it a showy display of God’s power like Moses parting the Red Sea, a remarkable sermon like John the Baptist as he prepared the world for the Word made flesh, or a wondrous event like the disciples casting out demons, healing physical bodies, and raising people from the dead? No. It was a small and understated action that I doubt many even knew was taking place. But nonetheless, it was powerful, impactful, and it was amazing.

In the words of Martin Luther King, jr. “If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way”

Today, Whataburger did a small thing in a great way!

What Really Matters

What Really Matters!

“And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazarath of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased. And immediately the Spirit driveth him into the wilderness. And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted of Satan; and was with the wild beasts; and the angels ministered unto him. Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel. Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And Jesus said unto the, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men. And straight away they forsook their nest, and followed him. And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the ship mending their nets. And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him. ”-Mark 1:9-20 KJV

Going into 2017 we, as Christians, need to focus on what really matters. Throughout everyday life, we find ourselves so utterly consumed with focusing on the wrong things, that we turn a blind eye to what really matters.

We find ourselves forgetting in all the hustle and bustle of life that God is in control.

We fail to realize, that when we say, “I can’t do it’, what we’re really saying is, “God can’t do it!”

Because we are human, we tend to think of Jesus as all human. Jesus was all human, but he was also all God. By examining His time on Earth, we can determine what really matters in our life.

What Really Matters #1- Pleasing God- verses 9-11

For the past 30 years, Jesus had been living an everyday human life. He had been learning carpentry under Joseph’s tutelage until he was ready to begin his ministry, which John had been preparing the world for.  By being baptized by John, Jesus- a man without sin, was putting himself in our shoes, setting the example of how a sinner should repent and be cleansed of sin, taking in the Holy Spirit, so that they in turn can share the same with others. It is important to remember that God is always with us, but He gains immense pleasure from our ordinary human life when we turn our focus to Him.

What Really Matters #2- Avoiding Sin- verse 13

Jesus was all human. He experienced the same temptation to sin as we all do, yet he led a sinless life. It is not the temptation that is the sin, it is the giving in to temptation that is the sin. Satan tempted Jesus when he was alone, when he was away from God, and when he was at his most vulnerable. Why should we think that we are any different? Satan’s plan of attack has not changed. He will attack us when we too are alone, when we walk away from God, and when we are at our most vulnerable. To avoid this, we need to proactive. We need to be close to God, surround ourselves with good godly people, keep in his Word, and allow God full control of our life. When you say, ‘I can’t do it’, what you are really saying is, ‘God can’t do it!’

What Really Matters #3- Repenting and Believing the Gospel- verse 15

What really matters to God, is our salvation and belief in the gospel. The gospel is the birth, death, burial, and resurrection of His Son, Jesus Christ. To obtain salvation, we need to admit that we are sinners- to realize that because of Adam’s sin, we are all doomed to Hell. For the wages of sin is death. We need to believe the gospel, that Jesus is the Son of God, who paid the price of your sin with his own blood and that it is His blood that washes those sins away. That he came to this earth as a baby, born of a virgin, grew as a man, died on Calvary’s cross, was buried in a borrowed tomb, and rose from the dead three days later, claiming victory over Satan and death. Then we need to confess the sins we have committed  and ask Jesus to come into our hearts and forgive us of them, to save us from the Hell we are destined to burn in, and repent- turning from our old life into a new one with Jesus as our personal Savior.

What Really Matters #4- Living as a Disciple- verses 16-20

In verses 16-20 we see another example set by Jesus, as he shows us how to live the life of a disciple. Once saved, we need to be willing to be of use to God. We need to be willing to go in whatever direction He has set before us. We need to have knowledge of the gospel, to show ourselves approved, when we are called to act or stand up for our beliefs. We need to be transformed by the power of God to tell others about Jesus and we need to spread the word of the Great Commission (Matt 28:18-20). Saving others from an eternity of burning in Hell.

Use 2017 to focus on what really matters. If we didn’t tell anyone about Jesus in 2016, it was a wasted year. If we don’t tell anyone about Jesus in 2017, that too will be a wasted year. Focus on what really matters. Don’t waste your year.

May 12, 2013

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

OPENING HYMN: I Love To Tell The Story

DEVOTIONAL: How Much Christ Gives To Us. 1 Timothy 1:12-16

      "And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into  the ministry. Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting."

       This passage could also be titled, The Difference Christ Makes. For without Jesus, there is so much that we would not have. Redemption from sin, everlasting life, hope.

SUNDAY SCHOOL:   Defense Before King Agrippa       Acts 26:1-32

  Festus needed to send "formal charges" against Paul to Caesar and this was causing a problem for Festus, because he knew Paul was innocent. In a catch 22 Festus knew that sending Paul with out proper charges would make him look incompetent in his duties.

In Acts 23:11, Jesus tells Paul he will witness in Rome and in the last three chapters we have seen many steps taken that will fulfill that statement. Speaking his defense before Felix and now King Agrippa and his entourage, Paul was able to "witness before the heads of the government of Judea."* Paul's defense," was a testimony designed to present the gospel so that all those who heard him would know how to be saved and would have an opportunity to repent of their sins and place their faith in Jesus. Paul was able to accomplish his goal and he gave us a great example to follow in witnessing before a hostile audience."*

Repeating the story of his personal testimony, "Paul was preparing the ground work in the hearts of these evil rulers for the gospel to do its wonderful work."*

As the Holy Spirit began to convict Paul's audience, Felix loudly claimed Paul  was insane to which Paul calmly refuted that he was not and that everything he had said could easily be verified. It was at this time Agrippa declared he was almost persuaded to become a Christian. (Acts 26:28). "However, almost saved is still one hundred percent lost."*

And it is my prayer, much like Paul's, that you will accept Christ into your heart and allow him to give you eternal life.

*Adult Quarterly- Church Growth- Extension- Acts 15-28


HYMNS: Saved, Saved
                Standing On The Promises
                I Must Tell Jesus
                I Choose Jesus

PRAYER REQUESTS: Health Issues, Unspoken, Military, Schools

SPECIAL SONG: Still Blessed

SERMON: Genesis 29:32- 30:21

Being Mother's Day, when we search through the bible for mothers there is one that stands out.  Leah. The older, uglier sister of Rachel, her father tricked Jacob into marrying her. For the rest of her life she became the wife her husband didn't love. But Leah was strong in her faith and as such she gave her children worthy names that we still use today- this act in itself is unusual according to the times, for the fathers were the ones to name their children, not mothers.

First there was Ruben- behold a son- Leah thought her husband would now love her.
Simeon- hearing- God heard that she was hated.
Levi (the tribe of Levites come from Leah)- hoped her husband would be joined to since she had delivered him three sons.
Judah- the fourth son- praise the Lord.
And for years, Leah became barren. When she conceived again her fifth son was named Issachar- reward. Her sixth son Zebulun- honor.
Her seventh and final child, a daughter, Dinah- was beautiful.

May 5, 2013

BE READY TO ANSWER

OPENING HYMN: Beneath The Cross Of Jesus

DEVOTIONAL: Be Ready To Answer- 1 Peter 3:15

Like a boyscout we need to be prepared- to be able to answer any question a believer/non-believer may have- to be ready to lead a lost person to Christ, or to better educate a fellow brother or sister.

With so much uncertainty in the world today, I believe we could even take this message one step further

"And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: AND BE NOT AFRAID OF THEIR TERROR, NEITHER BE TROUBLED; But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing."

Be ready to stand up for your beliefs, to protect your first amendment rights of freedom of religion. Christians are being targeted today and it is up to us to make sure that as the majority in America, that we are heard. Write to your local Senators, Governors, Congress, and President. Let them know how you feel. Don't be afraid to use social media to your advantage.Get the word out. "The pen is mightier than the sword."

SUNDAY SCHOOL: Acts 24-25

As Paul is brought to trial, we're being introduced to a new cast of characters. Felix and Festus, governors who were each morally corrupt.

Felix cared nothing for the law, seeking only to fill his pockets with money from bribes that would come his way.

Festus was blinded by his political ambition.

"Then, as now, a trial is often about politics rather than justice... Paul believed in the resurrection and that was the reason he was on trial... The whole thing was about Jesus and whether he was living or dead. The resurrection was at the heart of the case... He (Paul) was on trial because of his belief in Jesus, not because of anything he had done in the Temple."*

*Adult Quarterly- Church Growth- Extension- Acts 15-28

During his time under house arrest, Paul was not idle. Many times Felix and his wife Drusilla meet with Paul to hear his message about Christ. Both being sinners, Felix and Drusilla eventually come under the conviction of the Holy Spirit through Paul's works. Unfortunately sin nature overwhelmed their spiritual needs and they were never saved. Acts 24:24-27.

Due to his ineffective concerning control of the Jews, Festus took over as governor from Felix. As such it was customary during that time period for the new governor to grant a favor to his people. In this case it was the Jews- seeking to re-open Paul's case.

Afraid he would be sent back to Jerusalem and killed, Paul petitioned for his case to be heard by Caesar. Acts 25:10-13 as was his right, being a Roman citizen. Seeking help for the situation Festus found himself knee deep in, he took advantage of the arrival of King Agrippa and Bernice- giving Paul the opportunity to present his case to another and Festus the chance to ask for advice. Acts 25:23-27.

HYMNS: Come, Christians, Join To Sing
                How Firm A Foundation
                Faith Is The Victory
                It Pays To Serve Jesus

PRAYER REQUESTS: Health Issues, Military, Government, Unspoken

SERMON: We were treated to a guest speaker, Jon Hancock with the American Baptist Association.

His message, entitled, Withstanding Life's Storms, was aptly named as he also brought us a presentation on ABA'S Disaster Relief Program (more to come on this later)

Matthew 7:24-27

"Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock, And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it."


There are 3 components God has given us to withstand the storms we go through in life.

1. We all need to realize that EVERYONE will be hit by storms in their life. None of us are exempt. What matters is how we react and handle those storms.

2. Everyone of us has God given instructions on how to handle these storms. I'm sure you all know the popular saying, "When all else fails, read the instructions!" Our instructions come in the form of the Bible.

3. Everyone who acts, can withstand the storm. By following the instructions, we know that Jesus will never leave us, nor forsake us. He is always there for us, he wants to work in our lives. See- James 1:22, Proverbs 28:13, James 1:25, Isaiah 59:1

April 28, 2013

April 28, 2013

OPENING HYMN: Take My Life, and Let It Be

DEVOTIONAL: 2 Timothy 4:16-18

"At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me until his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen."

Every one of us has a great work to do. "What could you accomplish for God, knowing He has your back"*

*Reflection- Daily Devotionals- Church Growth- Extension- Acts 15-28- S.S. 2013

SUNDAY SCHOOL: Acts 23, previous Sunday (April 21), Acts 22

Chapters 22 and 23 show us how Paul reacted when "he was falsely accused of bringing a Gentile into the Temple"**- Acts 21:29

In Acts 22 we see Paul defending himself by giving his testimony.  (In my opinion, your testimony is the most witness you can have.)

In Acts 23 we see that the unfavorable reaction of the mob to Paul's witness lead him to being brought before the Sanhedrin- a Council comprised of Pharisees and Sadducees- where Paul believed that by telling the truth they would see he was innocent of the charges brought against him. 

Appealing to their better nature might would have worked had the men he was appealing to not already decided he was guilty.

Changing tactics Paul began to "divide and conquer", pitting the beliefs of the Pharisees against those of the Sadducees. Having been a Pharisee himself, Paul declared he was being targeted for his belief in the ressurection of Jesus- an event the Sadducees refused to give consideration to.

This statement turned the "accusation against him into a matter of doctorine and not personalities"**.

It was this dissension between the Council that allowed Paul to live and in turn added more momentum to the chain of events that would bring Paul to Rome- putting his "issue" before the Roman governor in Caesarea. 

As a side note: Due to being a Roman citizen the fact that his very life was in danger, Paul was escorted, under the cover of night from Jerusalem by 470 troops!!!

** Adult Quarterly/ Adult Lesson Commentary- Church Growth, etc.

HYMNS: There Is A Name I Love To Hear

                Each Step I Take

                Thank You, Lord

PRAYER REQUESTS: Military, Government, Schools, Medical Issues

PRAISE REPORTS- Healing

SERMON: Ezra 9:5-8

. 

We all need reviving in our "bondage", a release from the problems in our lives. As a society we have been cultured to show no pain. Yet as we go through the Bible, we find many men, including Jesus, who had openly broken down and wept. 

A constant growth process- it is easier said than done to "give it to God". As a human- whose earthly body is full of sin and imperfection we can give the idea of our problems to God, yet their essence still remains- swirling round and round in our heads, driving us crazy, popping up at the most inopportune times to kick us in the rear. Luckily we had God- a person who is always there to take what we have to give, no matter how many times we have to give it.

What are you going to lay at the alter of God today? What burdens do you need to give to God and ask for his reviving?

Finding Lost Things

I have this shirt I like to wear- I got it as a hand me down. It’s baby blue and in block letters on the front it reads “FOUND”. Since I work with children, a lot of them read it and ask what it means. I turn around and get them to read the back- “For this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. Luke 15:24”. The rest of the verse which is not on the shirt reads- “And they began to be merry.”

I find, like most shirts, this is an excellent witnessing tool. And for today, the beginning of our topic. 

I find most of the time, in my life, things have a tendency to happen in threes. And when they do- I pay attention.

Earlier this week there was a post on Facebook saying something like –“It’s not really lost until your mother can’t find it!” As a mother, I have truly perfected the art of finding lost things. Mainly it’s the TV remote, and it can usually be found wedged between the seats of the love seat the kids and I like to sit on. There have been times that I have found it on the bathroom sink and in the bread box.

Just this week one of my lovely children lost my car keys. I searched for an hour and a half! No joke. I was going crazy. Retracing steps, asking question worthy of an investigative detective, enlisting the help of anyone in the vicinity. About half way into my quest I had a realization.

Every time I have lost something of significant value- I have eventually- at my wits end- stopped and prayed, asking for God’s help. Within minutes I usually find the item in question and with a heartfelt thank you continue on my merry way. 

As I was frantically searching for my keys, thinking on “finding lost things” I remembered the parable from Luke 15:8- a woman scours her home looking in every nook and cranny for a piece of silver she has lost. When she finds it, she is over come with joy. Verse 10 goes on to say- “Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.”

While I may be good at finding my lost things and rejoice happily at their return, I know there is one who is infinitely greater at finding lost things than I and the joy that comes with being found is limitless.

I pray that if you are lost today, that you too will soon be found.

April 14, 2013

Greetings from Clearview Missionary Baptist Church, here's a review of how our Sunday went.


OPENIGN  HYMN: Come, Thou Fount

DEVOTIONAL: 2 Timothy 3:10-12- Consequences of a Godly Life

"But thou hast fully known my doctorine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch , at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution."-KJV

It's plain, if people have and are going to continue to persecute Jesus himself, people will not doubt do the same to you as one of his followers. Take comfort in knowing that while your rewards may not be what you imagine in this life, everlasting life with Jesus awaits.

SUNDAY SCHOOL: Acts 21:1-40

Expounding on our devotional, we continued our exploration of Acts. In verses 4-14 we find the Holy Spirit talking to both Paul and the other disciples. There seems to be a bit of contradiction here as the Holy Spirit tells the disciples one thing- warning Paul not to travel to Jerusalem, and telling Paul that he must go. I believe this to be a test of sorts for Paul, much like Jesus was tested in the Garden shortly before his crucifiction.  Both knew ahead of time that death was in their future and knowing this they both willing continued on their path.

"This was the first in a series of events that would ultimately lead Paul to being sent to Rome and, eventually, to his death at the hands of Caesar."- Adult Quarterly- Church Growth- Extension-Acts 15-28, Spring Quarter 2013.

Being imprisoned gave Paul the chance to write his books and witness to a group of people he otherwise might not have had a chance to witness to- the Roman guards. This was how the word of Jesus was able to cross continents.

"And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome."- Acts 23:11-KJV

HYMNS: Praise Him! Praise Him!
                Dwelling in Beulah Land
                When We All Get to Heaven

PRAYER REQUESTS: Medical Issues, Government, Schools, Unspoken, Country

SERMON: Zechariah 4:1-4

The 4th Vision

Unlike the 3rd vision, this vision was filled with symbolism and as such is complex and hard to understand. I'm going to break it down and hopefully get the point across in a way that helps it to make sense.

God is our never ending supply. Be it of courage, encouragement, inspiration. We can trust that when God chooses us to do a job, that he has chosen right. Take for instance the many times he chose a baby to see his works through.

Baby Issac- started the plan of salvation
Baby Moses- would lead the captive Jews out of slavery and into the Promised Land
David- a shepherd boy with a slingshot would take down a giant and one day become king.
A boys' small lunch would feed the multitude.
Baby Jesus- laid in the manager- would die to save us all.

Like in verses 7-10, it shows a clear promise that Zerubbabel would start and complete the temple. And like Zerubbabel, God will bring us to and lead us through and works he deems us fit for.

If as you're reading this and you begin to wonder what God's will for you might be, know he already has three things in mind

1- The will of God is for everyone to be saved.
2- Join a church, be baptized, and get to work in the mission field.
3- Study- " to show thyself approved" 2 Timothy 2:15

CLOSING HYMN: Let the Beauty of Jesus Be Seen

Send us your comments,  we'd love to hear from you.

Have a blessed week.

April 7, 2014

As I’m sure you can tell from the large lapse between dates, it’s been a while since I’ve posted here. I can only blame it on pure laziness; putting things in my life ahead of using this blog as a missions tool.

So here’s what we did Sunday, April 7, 2014 at our church.

Opening hymn: Amazing Grace

Devotional: Galatians 6:1-10- Meeting the needs of others.

Sunday School: Acts 20- Paul is winding up his mission trip in Asia.

Hymns:     All Hail The Power of Jesus’ Name

                Love Lifted Me

                Each Step I Take

Prayer Requests: For our country, government, and schools

Sermon: Zechariah 3:1-10

                Zechariah was given 10 visions, this chapter deals with the 4^th. Differing from the first 3, this vision has actors that need no interpretation as it literally explains itself. There is Joshua- the High Priest, Jesus- the angel of the Lord (notice the capital L- this refers to a theophany- an interaction with the pre-incarnate form of Jesus Christ with man), Satan, and his other angels.

3:1-3      As the vision begins Joshua is standing in front of Jesus. Here, Joshua is filthy- literally covered with the wages of sin- a symbolic image of the iniquity of the nation of Israel at the time. Jesus is standing in as our defender as Satan stands at his side, our accuser. What happens in the vision is a picture of what God does for us. Jesus is our advocate and defender representing us at the throne of God- rebuking Satan, casting him into the lake of fire.

*             It is important to note that Satan cannot condemn us for sins that Jesus Christ died for. From the moment that we ask Jesus to enter our heart and cleanse us of our sins there can be no condemnation. See Romans 3:25.

*             We will one day be judged, but only on those sins we committed after salvation, but it is important to know that once we are saved by Jesus, we are always saved.

3:4-5      The day that Jesus saved us, he gave us new clothes, the clothes of saints also seen in Romans 12:1-2 and Revelations 19

3:8-10    The BRANCH in this passage is symbolic of Jesus and is a vision of him speaking in a future event- Seven years after the tribulations.

Closing hymn: Are You Washed In The Blood

Let's get a conversation going- feel free to post your questions or comments.

May Bible Verses- Week Two

Monday, May 7- "Blessed by the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavely places in Christ."- Eph. 1:3- KJV

Tuesday, May 8- "For I am the Lord, I speak, and the word which I speak will come to pass; it will no more be postponed; for in your days, O rebellious house, I will say the words and perform it, " says the Lord God."- Ezekial 12:25- KJV

Wednesday, May 8- "Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy. To God our Savior, who alone is wise, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen.- Jude 24, 25- KJV

Thursday, May 9- "I acknowledge my sin to You, and my iniquity I have not hidden. I said, "I will confess my transgression to the Lord," and You forgave the iniquity of my sin."- Psalms 32:5- KJV

Friday, May 10- "Let your heart therefore be loyal to the Lord our God, to walk in His statues and keep His commandments, as at this day."- 1 Kings 8:61- KJV

May Bible Verses- Week One

Monday, April 30- "He is the Rock, His work is perfect; for all His ways are justice, a God of truth and without injustice; righteous and upright is He."- Deut. 32:4-KJV

Tuesday, May 1- "Grace and knowledge be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord."- 2 Peter 1:2- KJV

Wednesday, May 2- " Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom  he may devour."- 1 Peter 5:8-KJV

Thursday, May 3- "For He says: "In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you." Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation."- 2 Cor. 6:2- KJV

Friday, May 4- "She said to Him, "Yes, Lord, I believe that You are the Christ, the Son of God, who is to come into the world."- John 11:27- KJV

April Bible Verses- Week Four

Monday, April 23- "Thus says the Lord, the King of the Israel, and his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts: 'I am the First and I am the Last; besides Me there is no God."- Isaiah 44:6- KJV

Tuesday, April 24- "For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus."- 1 Timothy 2:5 KJv

Wednesday, April 25- "To you first, God , having raised up His Servant Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from your iniquities."- Acts 3:26-KJV

Thursday, April 26- "He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life."- 1 John 5:12

Friday, April 27- "And that their children, who have not known it, may hear and learn to fear the Lord your God as long as you live in the land which you cross the Jordan to possess."- Deut. 31:13- KJV

April Bible Verses- Week Three

Mon. April 16- "The Lord upholds all those who fall and lifts up all who are bowed down."- Psalm 145:14  NIV

Tues. April 17- "Give your burdens to the Lord. He will carry them. He will not permit the godly to slip or fall."- Psalm 55L:22 TLB

Wed. April 18- "I will cleanse them from all thier iniquity by which they have sinned against Me, and I will pardon all their iniquites by which they have sinned and by which they have transgressed against Me."- Jeremiah 33:8

Thurs. April 19- "Who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God."- John 1:13

Fri. April 20- "For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord's."

April Bible Verses- Week Two

Mon. April 9- "And Jesus cried out with a loud voice, and breathed His last. Then the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. So when the centurion, who stood opposite Him, saw that He cried out like this and breathed His last, he said, "Truly this Man was the Son of God!"- Mark 15:38-39

Tues. April 10- "So the Jews answered and said to Him, "What sign do You show to us, since You do these things?" Jesus answered and said to them, "Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up." Then the Jews said, "It has taken forty-six years to build this temple, and You raise it up in three days?" But He was speaking of the temple of His body. Therefore, when He had risen from the dead, His disciples remembered that He had said this to them; and they belived the Scripture and the word which Jesus had said."-
John 2:18-22

Wed. April 11-The Lord your God in your midst, the Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing."- Zephaniah 3:17

Thurs. April 12-  "O Death, where is your sting? O Hades, where is your victory? The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain with the Lord."- 1 Corinthians 15:55-58

Fri. April 13-  "Therefore be patient, brethern, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand."- James 5: 7-8

April Bible Verses- Week One

Mon. April 2- "The wisdom of this world is foolishness."- 1 Corin. 3:19-KJV

Tues. April 3- "And I will walk among you, and will be your God, and ye shall be my people."- Leviticus 26:12- KJV

Wed. April 4- "...for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content."- Philippians 4:11- KJV

Thurs. April 5- "For with God nothing shall be impossible."- Luke 1:37- KJV

Fri. April 6- "Tackle every task that comes along, and if you fear God you can expect his blesings."- Ecclesiates 7:18-TLB