Come Near To God
James 4 7:10
When I was younger, I would get to go with my Dad and others on campaigns doing mission work in the summer on some island. It was good. It seemed like it drew us closer to God, and I know it drew us closer to each other. Even today, we will take off – a group from our church – and do mission work together and when we return, we will be close friends. There are folks I have become very close to because of those times working together and getting closer to God.
One of the things I have discovered, when we draw closer to God, we draw closer to each other. Husbands and wives need to learn that great lesson—that as an individual we should focus on drawing closer to God. We will then naturally grow closer to each other. That will help with the divorce rate.
As we go on mission trips, as we work for Him, as we are busy serving Him this week here in Elba even, , we should be focused on getting closer to Him. As we do that, we need to remember that God likes us spending time with Him. He wants us to be with Him and to talk to Him. He wants us to pay attention to Him, and He will pay attention to us.
Our Scripture reading today comes from James 4:7-10, and as always, let me urge you again to get your Bibles and check me out. There are a lot of people saying a lot of things days. You need to make sure of what the Bible says by using 20/20 vision—reading 20 verses before and 20 verses after the verse. It will give you a clear vision of what’s happening in that chapter. In verse 8 of the Bible reading, James says “Come near to God, and He will come near to you.” What a great blessing that is. It means that if we will communicate with God through faithful obedience, then God will move closer to us. As we move to Him, He moves to us, and the ultimate thing is that we are close to each other, and are ultimately together for all of eternity. God promises that He will come near to us if we will come near to Him.
I hope that you will start moving in God’s direction and will come near to God today. I hope that you will make sure that your life is one of faithful obedience to God’s will, so come near to God with a sincere heart. If your faith is what it needs to be , Hebrews 10:22 says, you can be sure of coming near to God.
I hope you will be able to look back on this day, Monday, November 30, 2009, and say, "I moved closer to God."
~Philip
30 November 2009
25 November 2009
Praise God (continued)
Psalm 117:1-2
Well tomorrow is the day. Thanksgiving will be here. Many of us have plans with our families, and have started making our way other places for Thanksgiving. Maybe you have family making their way into town.
We are busy at this time of the year praising God, and we’ve been encouraging you over the last couple of days about the idea of praising God. We talked on the first day about the idea that praising God is worshiping God, giving Him the honor and glory that is due Him.
Yesterday we talked about the fact that when we have troubles and worries, part of praising God is handing that over to Him, and allowing Him to have His way with our life.
One reason we praise God is the way that He loved us, His wonderful love for us. In our Bible we can read about many ways God showed His love for us. In our scripture reading today from Psalm 117: 1-2, the psalmist talks about God loving. In 1 John 3:1, the Bible tells us of God’s love. He tells us the Father does so much. This shows how much He loved us, and that we are called ”Children of God” isn’t that neat—that God loved us enough to call us His children. I know with my children, I certainly love them, and I’m sure the same is true with you. We see how parents love, and are reminded again about that kind of love within family groups, right now at holiday times.
Another way God loves us enough is how He pays attention to our prayers when we pray. In Psalm 17:6, David said, “Every time I called to You, God, you answered me. So listen to me now.” David said that every time he called God answered, and David wanted to thank God for that.
God truly tells us how much he loved us when he sent his son Jesus to die for us. God knew that all people needed a way to have their sins forgiven, so He sent Jesus to be that perfect sacrifice for our sins. This is so wonderful that it is hard for people to even believe it, but God’s love is more than we can even understand. He sent his Son to suffer on the cross of Calvary bearing the sins of all people and giving us the hope of salvation when this life is over. God’s love is so great and awesome. John 3:16 is probably the most familiar text in all the Bible “For God so loved the world He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Praise God for His love for us, and for what He has done for us, and take advantage of the salvation He offers through Christ by hearing his word and believing it, repenting your sins, confessing your faith, being baptized into Christ, and then living faithfully each day of your life.
~Philip
Psalm 117:1-2
Well tomorrow is the day. Thanksgiving will be here. Many of us have plans with our families, and have started making our way other places for Thanksgiving. Maybe you have family making their way into town.
We are busy at this time of the year praising God, and we’ve been encouraging you over the last couple of days about the idea of praising God. We talked on the first day about the idea that praising God is worshiping God, giving Him the honor and glory that is due Him.
Yesterday we talked about the fact that when we have troubles and worries, part of praising God is handing that over to Him, and allowing Him to have His way with our life.
One reason we praise God is the way that He loved us, His wonderful love for us. In our Bible we can read about many ways God showed His love for us. In our scripture reading today from Psalm 117: 1-2, the psalmist talks about God loving. In 1 John 3:1, the Bible tells us of God’s love. He tells us the Father does so much. This shows how much He loved us, and that we are called ”Children of God” isn’t that neat—that God loved us enough to call us His children. I know with my children, I certainly love them, and I’m sure the same is true with you. We see how parents love, and are reminded again about that kind of love within family groups, right now at holiday times.
Another way God loves us enough is how He pays attention to our prayers when we pray. In Psalm 17:6, David said, “Every time I called to You, God, you answered me. So listen to me now.” David said that every time he called God answered, and David wanted to thank God for that.
God truly tells us how much he loved us when he sent his son Jesus to die for us. God knew that all people needed a way to have their sins forgiven, so He sent Jesus to be that perfect sacrifice for our sins. This is so wonderful that it is hard for people to even believe it, but God’s love is more than we can even understand. He sent his Son to suffer on the cross of Calvary bearing the sins of all people and giving us the hope of salvation when this life is over. God’s love is so great and awesome. John 3:16 is probably the most familiar text in all the Bible “For God so loved the world He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.
Praise God for His love for us, and for what He has done for us, and take advantage of the salvation He offers through Christ by hearing his word and believing it, repenting your sins, confessing your faith, being baptized into Christ, and then living faithfully each day of your life.
~Philip
24 November 2009
PRAISE GOD
Psalm 68:19-25
We started talking yesterday about the fact that Thanksgiving is quickly approaching. I know we have a lot of things to be thankful for, although a lot people have a lot of problems, it seems. There are people who worry all the time about all kinds of problems in their life. Sometimes I think we try to make up trouble to have something to complain about.
There are all kinds of solutions in books written on how to solve problems and how to build yourself up. Many of them are good books...I've read many of them, and I find that they help me. I would recommend some of them to you even. But there is one book that really tries to settle all the problems of life and all the difficulties here on earth.
Sometimes life here on earth can be difficult. If we don't give God our problems though, it can even get worse, and our worries will become such that they literally will kill us. It will be one of those things we will be so caught up in that even on Thanksgiving we can't even take a minute to say thank you to God.
In 1 Peter 5:7, we read,"Give all your worries to Him because He cares for you." This means that we should give our troubles to God, to the all-powerful God who could speak things into existance, and by His word things would happen. God can help us with any of our problems in life. Maybe you're facing some serious problems today, maybe it is something that is major. Perhaps you are sick, or someone you love has died, or maybe you have lost your job, and facing financial troubles. Maybe you are facing divorce, and during holidays, those family issues seem to come to the top.
We try to do a marathon during holiday times, when you have to go to the parents and all the grandparents, and all the step parents. The Bible teaches that in all of that be sure to talk to God about your problems, and let Him decide what to do. Let Him be the One to guide your steps.
Our scripture reading for today is Psalm 68:19-25. As always I would encourage you to have your Bibles and be reading every day and through that you will continue to grow spiritually. The psalmist is dealing with problems himself, and he says he needs to give them to God. That's what we need to do, we need to give those problems to God, and we need to praise Him for His great wisdom.We have small troubles now, but those troubles are helping us to gain an eternal glory. That eternal glory is much greater than our troubles, so says 2 Corinthians 4:17. What are you doing today? Are you giving God your problems?
Are you praising God.
~Philip
Psalm 68:19-25
We started talking yesterday about the fact that Thanksgiving is quickly approaching. I know we have a lot of things to be thankful for, although a lot people have a lot of problems, it seems. There are people who worry all the time about all kinds of problems in their life. Sometimes I think we try to make up trouble to have something to complain about.
There are all kinds of solutions in books written on how to solve problems and how to build yourself up. Many of them are good books...I've read many of them, and I find that they help me. I would recommend some of them to you even. But there is one book that really tries to settle all the problems of life and all the difficulties here on earth.
Sometimes life here on earth can be difficult. If we don't give God our problems though, it can even get worse, and our worries will become such that they literally will kill us. It will be one of those things we will be so caught up in that even on Thanksgiving we can't even take a minute to say thank you to God.
In 1 Peter 5:7, we read,"Give all your worries to Him because He cares for you." This means that we should give our troubles to God, to the all-powerful God who could speak things into existance, and by His word things would happen. God can help us with any of our problems in life. Maybe you're facing some serious problems today, maybe it is something that is major. Perhaps you are sick, or someone you love has died, or maybe you have lost your job, and facing financial troubles. Maybe you are facing divorce, and during holidays, those family issues seem to come to the top.
We try to do a marathon during holiday times, when you have to go to the parents and all the grandparents, and all the step parents. The Bible teaches that in all of that be sure to talk to God about your problems, and let Him decide what to do. Let Him be the One to guide your steps.
Our scripture reading for today is Psalm 68:19-25. As always I would encourage you to have your Bibles and be reading every day and through that you will continue to grow spiritually. The psalmist is dealing with problems himself, and he says he needs to give them to God. That's what we need to do, we need to give those problems to God, and we need to praise Him for His great wisdom.We have small troubles now, but those troubles are helping us to gain an eternal glory. That eternal glory is much greater than our troubles, so says 2 Corinthians 4:17. What are you doing today? Are you giving God your problems?
Are you praising God.
~Philip
20 November 2009
DON’T WORRY, BE HAPPY
Psalm 55:1-24
Our Scripture Reading today comes from Psalm 55:1-24. It is one of those Psalms that reminds us not to worry. You can see in this text that the writer is thanking God for being God, and for being in control. Sometimes in our lives, something reminds us more than usual that God isin control. I remember when I was a boy, we were at a shopping center andan interesting thing happened. We were standing in the middle of the building and you could see out both sides. It was pouring down rain on one side of the building, just a deluge of rain, and out the back the sun was shining. I pointed it out to my parents, and we were amazed.
I was reading again in the book of James 5, about Elijah praying that itnot rain, and for three years it didn’t. Then he prayed that it would rain, and sure enough, rain came again upon the earth. God is in control. God is the same God who would be in the boat with the disciplesand the storm would be raging, and Jesus would waken from sleep and say they were lacking in their faith. Then he would say to the wind, “Peace,be still.” It was. Then the disciples would say to each other, “What kind of man is this,that even the weather obeys His command.” I’ll tell you what kind of manthis is. He is the Savior of mankind, our God, the same God of Abraham,Isaac, and Jacob. He is our God today.
He wants to be in control of ourlives, and wants us to always remember and to realize that He is incontrol. When we watch the raindrops falling, and we see rain on one side and sunshine on the other, we are reminded that He is in control. You will have days in your life that will remind you that God is in control. He wants you to stay in the fight, to keep doing what’s right without worrying, or complaining, or murmuring. He wants us to trust in Him. Our Bible reading today reminds us that we should pray to God and give ourworries to Him. I hope that you will do that today.
I hope that you will say, “God, I want to give you all the problems, all the concerns, all ofthe worries. I want to trust You completely.” In doing that God will bewell pleased. One of the verses in that text, verse 23, says “Give your worries to the Lord, and He will care for you.” It’s true. If we will give our cares to God, He will take care of us. He wants to do that. He wants to be a partof your life, and if you will faithfully obey His will He will do that. In the New Testament there are verses like this, “You confess Me before men, and I will confess you before the Father.” It is a give and take kind of relationship. He gives us so much more than we give Him, but ifwe give Him ourselves, our being, He will receive us, He will accept usjust as we are. He’ll forgive our sins, and He will establish arelationship with us that is like none other. I hope you will put Him first in your life today and every day. ~Philip
Psalm 55:1-24
Our Scripture Reading today comes from Psalm 55:1-24. It is one of those Psalms that reminds us not to worry. You can see in this text that the writer is thanking God for being God, and for being in control. Sometimes in our lives, something reminds us more than usual that God isin control. I remember when I was a boy, we were at a shopping center andan interesting thing happened. We were standing in the middle of the building and you could see out both sides. It was pouring down rain on one side of the building, just a deluge of rain, and out the back the sun was shining. I pointed it out to my parents, and we were amazed.
I was reading again in the book of James 5, about Elijah praying that itnot rain, and for three years it didn’t. Then he prayed that it would rain, and sure enough, rain came again upon the earth. God is in control. God is the same God who would be in the boat with the disciplesand the storm would be raging, and Jesus would waken from sleep and say they were lacking in their faith. Then he would say to the wind, “Peace,be still.” It was. Then the disciples would say to each other, “What kind of man is this,that even the weather obeys His command.” I’ll tell you what kind of manthis is. He is the Savior of mankind, our God, the same God of Abraham,Isaac, and Jacob. He is our God today.
He wants to be in control of ourlives, and wants us to always remember and to realize that He is incontrol. When we watch the raindrops falling, and we see rain on one side and sunshine on the other, we are reminded that He is in control. You will have days in your life that will remind you that God is in control. He wants you to stay in the fight, to keep doing what’s right without worrying, or complaining, or murmuring. He wants us to trust in Him. Our Bible reading today reminds us that we should pray to God and give ourworries to Him. I hope that you will do that today.
I hope that you will say, “God, I want to give you all the problems, all the concerns, all ofthe worries. I want to trust You completely.” In doing that God will bewell pleased. One of the verses in that text, verse 23, says “Give your worries to the Lord, and He will care for you.” It’s true. If we will give our cares to God, He will take care of us. He wants to do that. He wants to be a partof your life, and if you will faithfully obey His will He will do that. In the New Testament there are verses like this, “You confess Me before men, and I will confess you before the Father.” It is a give and take kind of relationship. He gives us so much more than we give Him, but ifwe give Him ourselves, our being, He will receive us, He will accept usjust as we are. He’ll forgive our sins, and He will establish arelationship with us that is like none other. I hope you will put Him first in your life today and every day. ~Philip
19 November 2009
GIVE THANKS
Ephesians 1:15-23
I hope you get your Bibles and really read our scripture reading each day. In our Bible reading today, Ephesians 1:15-23, Paul is giving thanks to some folks. We see this story developing a long time before. In Acts 19, the Bible tells us that Paul was traveling and he stopped in his travels in a city called Ephesus. Paul told the people there about Jesus and some of the people believed his teaching. Of course, when people faithfully believe the teachings about God, they become obedient to it and start to live their life in an obedient fashion.
Paul stayed there two years teaching them, and showing them how they ought to live their lives. During that time Paul helped to establish a great church there in Ephesus. Later Paul would be writing back a letter to the Christians there, and that book is in our New Testament, the book of Ephesians. In this book he continued to teach and he said he thanked God always for them. Ephesians 1:15 says, “I always thank God for you.”
Paul thanked God that these Christians had faith in Jesus and they loved all God’s people. I am happy that I have a Christian family around me to encourage me and to help me. I mentioned yesterday that we had experienced death in our family again. My wife’s grandfather passed away earlier this week, and we have already received many cards and notes of encouragement. There were flowers at the funeral from several different churches, other family members, and others, and I’m always thankful that we have those kind of people around us. I’m thankful for my best friend, who is not only my best friend, but he wants to help me get to heaven when I die. I’m thankful for all those people around me who help me be a better Christian. I want to encourage you today to thank God for your Christian family. You know, often we forget to think of our Christian family as just that. This family is really part of one body and has several members with different jobs to do, but we are to work together as one. We are to be a family serving God.
I hope you will do what you need to do to be a part of that family, which means you will hear and believe the gospel, then repent, confess, and be baptized into Christ. Then you are added to the family, and can begin your Christian journey in life by living faithfully there after. Then you will know what it is to have a family of God around who is interested in your going to heaven.
I always thank my God for the grace He has given me through Christ Jesus. In Jesus you have become a blessing in every way. You have been a blessed people in your speaking and in your knowledge, I Corinthians 1:4-5 says. I hope you will realize how God has blessed us, how He has made us one people who are truly blessed in Him.
~Philip
Ephesians 1:15-23
I hope you get your Bibles and really read our scripture reading each day. In our Bible reading today, Ephesians 1:15-23, Paul is giving thanks to some folks. We see this story developing a long time before. In Acts 19, the Bible tells us that Paul was traveling and he stopped in his travels in a city called Ephesus. Paul told the people there about Jesus and some of the people believed his teaching. Of course, when people faithfully believe the teachings about God, they become obedient to it and start to live their life in an obedient fashion.
Paul stayed there two years teaching them, and showing them how they ought to live their lives. During that time Paul helped to establish a great church there in Ephesus. Later Paul would be writing back a letter to the Christians there, and that book is in our New Testament, the book of Ephesians. In this book he continued to teach and he said he thanked God always for them. Ephesians 1:15 says, “I always thank God for you.”
Paul thanked God that these Christians had faith in Jesus and they loved all God’s people. I am happy that I have a Christian family around me to encourage me and to help me. I mentioned yesterday that we had experienced death in our family again. My wife’s grandfather passed away earlier this week, and we have already received many cards and notes of encouragement. There were flowers at the funeral from several different churches, other family members, and others, and I’m always thankful that we have those kind of people around us. I’m thankful for my best friend, who is not only my best friend, but he wants to help me get to heaven when I die. I’m thankful for all those people around me who help me be a better Christian. I want to encourage you today to thank God for your Christian family. You know, often we forget to think of our Christian family as just that. This family is really part of one body and has several members with different jobs to do, but we are to work together as one. We are to be a family serving God.
I hope you will do what you need to do to be a part of that family, which means you will hear and believe the gospel, then repent, confess, and be baptized into Christ. Then you are added to the family, and can begin your Christian journey in life by living faithfully there after. Then you will know what it is to have a family of God around who is interested in your going to heaven.
I always thank my God for the grace He has given me through Christ Jesus. In Jesus you have become a blessing in every way. You have been a blessed people in your speaking and in your knowledge, I Corinthians 1:4-5 says. I hope you will realize how God has blessed us, how He has made us one people who are truly blessed in Him.
~Philip
18 November 2009
SALT OF THE EARTH
MATTHEW 5:13-16
When the Bible was written salt was very important. Important as a preservative, and very important for seasoning food as it cooked. In some cultures salt is still used for a a lot of things around the world. In some cultures salt is still used as money. At one point in time salt was even traded as a monetary good that would be traded for other services or products.
Today we use salt to make our food taste better, and probably over use it, along with butter and some other things that aren't very good for us. The Bible talks about and compares a Christian to some salt. In Matthew 5:13, the Bible talks about being salt, Jesus said it this way, "You are the salt of the earth." Jesus wants Christians to be like salt. How can this happen? How can we give an example of our life so that we can season people and things around us?
Maybe we have a bowl of soup and it's kind of plain, but by just adding just a little bit of salt, it seems that things can change. It's the same way with Christians, and the way that Jesus wants us to be living our life. Just a little influence can make a big difference to people around us. If we do good things and have a good attitudes we can influence to follow Jesus. In verse 16, Jesus says to live so that people can see good in you. Live so that people can see good things in you each day. The thngs I do and say can help other people become a Christian -- If I smile at people and make people happy when I see them in a store, or meet them on the street, or if I treat people the way I ought to be treating them. If I treat my family the way I ought to treat them, not using bad words--words Christians should never be saying, then I am salt that is used for good.
The question for us today is: Are we really being salt for Christ? One Christian can influence many people to follow Jesus. Look for ways today to be salt. Look for ways to do good and be the salt of the earth. Mark 9:50, says "Salt is good, but if the salt loses its salty taste, then you cannot make it salty again. So, be full of goodness and have peace with each other.
I hope that today we can be full of Christ, that we can be the salt of the earth, and that God will use us in ways that only He can. Let Him have your life. Let Him have His way with you.
As we were going to a funeral earlier this week, I was thinking about this man, this Godly man. He was Paige's grandfather and had been a Christian all his life. He led many people to Christ. I was thinking about him being salt. We can be the same, and I hope to encourage you today to let that happen in your life. One way is to be together with other Christians. I hope you will come and be with us tonight for Bible class.
~Philip
Matthew 5:13-16 You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness
MATTHEW 5:13-16
When the Bible was written salt was very important. Important as a preservative, and very important for seasoning food as it cooked. In some cultures salt is still used for a a lot of things around the world. In some cultures salt is still used as money. At one point in time salt was even traded as a monetary good that would be traded for other services or products.
Today we use salt to make our food taste better, and probably over use it, along with butter and some other things that aren't very good for us. The Bible talks about and compares a Christian to some salt. In Matthew 5:13, the Bible talks about being salt, Jesus said it this way, "You are the salt of the earth." Jesus wants Christians to be like salt. How can this happen? How can we give an example of our life so that we can season people and things around us?
Maybe we have a bowl of soup and it's kind of plain, but by just adding just a little bit of salt, it seems that things can change. It's the same way with Christians, and the way that Jesus wants us to be living our life. Just a little influence can make a big difference to people around us. If we do good things and have a good attitudes we can influence to follow Jesus. In verse 16, Jesus says to live so that people can see good in you. Live so that people can see good things in you each day. The thngs I do and say can help other people become a Christian -- If I smile at people and make people happy when I see them in a store, or meet them on the street, or if I treat people the way I ought to be treating them. If I treat my family the way I ought to treat them, not using bad words--words Christians should never be saying, then I am salt that is used for good.
The question for us today is: Are we really being salt for Christ? One Christian can influence many people to follow Jesus. Look for ways today to be salt. Look for ways to do good and be the salt of the earth. Mark 9:50, says "Salt is good, but if the salt loses its salty taste, then you cannot make it salty again. So, be full of goodness and have peace with each other.
I hope that today we can be full of Christ, that we can be the salt of the earth, and that God will use us in ways that only He can. Let Him have your life. Let Him have His way with you.
As we were going to a funeral earlier this week, I was thinking about this man, this Godly man. He was Paige's grandfather and had been a Christian all his life. He led many people to Christ. I was thinking about him being salt. We can be the same, and I hope to encourage you today to let that happen in your life. One way is to be together with other Christians. I hope you will come and be with us tonight for Bible class.
~Philip
Matthew 5:13-16 You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness
13 November 2009
Look For God
II Chronicles 7:11-16
We, of course, live in America. This country was started by people who loved and worshipped God, but people in America do not worship God like they did then, or at least it seems like that to many of us. I have heard people say again and again, that things are a lot worse than they used to be.
It’s true many bad things are happening in America. Some people are trying to stop Christmas from being in our society. Some people have tried to take Bible study out of schools. Prayer was suspended from school. Other people try to force us to do things that are immoral, and things God does not want us to do. These are the same people that God has said “forever have their rule over the earth.”
This same bad stuff that happens is the same bad stuff that has always been happening, but God says “There’s nothing new under the sun.” So we know that God is still in charge, and ultimately God and His people will be victorious over all people. In our Bible reading today, God is reminding King Solomon that the Israelites needed to love and worship Him. Verse 14 says “If my people who are called by My Name become humble and pray, and look for me, and turn away from evil ways, then I will hear them in Heaven and I will forgive their sins, and I will heal their land.”
Whether we live in America, or some other land today, we need to pray and ask God to help us. We need to look for Him each day. We need to do the same things He suggested to the Israelites. We need to spend some of our time focused on God.
Today I want you to look for God. Look for Him wherever you are. Look for Godly things and embrace them. See things that are good and honor them. See things that are Godly in nature and take hold of them. I would ask you to be people who would spend much time praying for our country, our leaders, all the folks in our Government—local, state, and national. Whether you agree with those guys or not, we ought to be praying that God would forgive sins and heal our land. I know that God will take care of us.
Luke 11:9, says “So I tell you, continue to ask, and God will give to you, continue to search, and you will find, continue to knock, and the door will be opened for you.” I hope today you will continue to ask, continue to search, continue to knock, and allow God to open doors of opportunity that will lead us to places that we can only imagine. If we trust God it will make all the difference in our lives.
~Philip
II Chronicles 7:11-16
We, of course, live in America. This country was started by people who loved and worshipped God, but people in America do not worship God like they did then, or at least it seems like that to many of us. I have heard people say again and again, that things are a lot worse than they used to be.
It’s true many bad things are happening in America. Some people are trying to stop Christmas from being in our society. Some people have tried to take Bible study out of schools. Prayer was suspended from school. Other people try to force us to do things that are immoral, and things God does not want us to do. These are the same people that God has said “forever have their rule over the earth.”
This same bad stuff that happens is the same bad stuff that has always been happening, but God says “There’s nothing new under the sun.” So we know that God is still in charge, and ultimately God and His people will be victorious over all people. In our Bible reading today, God is reminding King Solomon that the Israelites needed to love and worship Him. Verse 14 says “If my people who are called by My Name become humble and pray, and look for me, and turn away from evil ways, then I will hear them in Heaven and I will forgive their sins, and I will heal their land.”
Whether we live in America, or some other land today, we need to pray and ask God to help us. We need to look for Him each day. We need to do the same things He suggested to the Israelites. We need to spend some of our time focused on God.
Today I want you to look for God. Look for Him wherever you are. Look for Godly things and embrace them. See things that are good and honor them. See things that are Godly in nature and take hold of them. I would ask you to be people who would spend much time praying for our country, our leaders, all the folks in our Government—local, state, and national. Whether you agree with those guys or not, we ought to be praying that God would forgive sins and heal our land. I know that God will take care of us.
Luke 11:9, says “So I tell you, continue to ask, and God will give to you, continue to search, and you will find, continue to knock, and the door will be opened for you.” I hope today you will continue to ask, continue to search, continue to knock, and allow God to open doors of opportunity that will lead us to places that we can only imagine. If we trust God it will make all the difference in our lives.
~Philip
12 November 2009
Happiness
Psalm 36:5-10
It’s now fall where we live, and you of course, are very well aware that leaves are changing colors and the temperature has cooled off substantially. Even with the recent tropical storm, we still have fall-like conditions.
There are many things in life that make us happy, sometimes theweather helps, sometimes there are other things in life that makes ushappy. As a matter of fact, I’m recording today’s topic because Bryson is one of the things that makes me happy. She is still here with me today. I want to take a minute and ask her what some of the things are that make her happy.... Bryson's answer, “Having a Mom and Dad,and saying my prayers at night, and being good in school makes mehappy. Also, having a good day and night might make me happy.”
Okay, and there are a bunch of other things that might make ushappy. We have all sorts of things in life that make us happy if welet them. I guess stuff can make us happy for a while, but I wantyou to understand today, that many things in life do make us happy, but the problem is they won’t make us happy for ever. If we want tobe happy for ever, if we want that kind of happiness, we have tohave forgiveness -- a special kind of forgiveness that comes frombeing obedient to God.
To some people special things make them happy-- a special blanket, ora certain smell, a picture, or some thing that happens, like a breeze blowing. Maybe it might be some of those things that Brysonmentioned today; but whatever it is that makes us happy, we need to realize that what makes us eternally happy is our faithful obedience to God’s will. Life, you see, is full of problems and sorrows. Things that make us happy will last a little while, but we will face problems and uncertainties. There are still things that make us unhappy.
In our Bible reading today, we find out there are some special things that make us happy. The scripture comes from Psalm 36:5-10. Verse 5talks about God’s love and loyalty, verse six tells us about God’sgoodness and fairness, and in verse 7 David tells us that nothing ismore precious than God’s love and kindness for us. Maybe you willface problems today, but be sure to think about the special things inlife, the things that can truly make you happy, the blood of Jesus Christ and His giving Himself on the cross of Calvary for us.Continue to think that through all the things that might happen in life no matter what is going on, always serve God with faithful obedience. The way that we do that is to hear what he says,believe, repent of our sins, confess our faith, and then we are baptized, and spend a lifetime of prayer and attending church services. We also spend time giving of our time, talents, and treasures, teaching others, and studying the Bible for ourselves.. I hope today we can encourage you to be happy and to notice what true happiness really is. It’s a blessing from God.
Psalm 36:5-10 Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. O LORD, you preserve both man and beast. How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. Continue your love to those who know you, your righteousness to the upright in heart.
~Philip
Psalm 36:5-10
It’s now fall where we live, and you of course, are very well aware that leaves are changing colors and the temperature has cooled off substantially. Even with the recent tropical storm, we still have fall-like conditions.
There are many things in life that make us happy, sometimes theweather helps, sometimes there are other things in life that makes ushappy. As a matter of fact, I’m recording today’s topic because Bryson is one of the things that makes me happy. She is still here with me today. I want to take a minute and ask her what some of the things are that make her happy.... Bryson's answer, “Having a Mom and Dad,and saying my prayers at night, and being good in school makes mehappy. Also, having a good day and night might make me happy.”
Okay, and there are a bunch of other things that might make ushappy. We have all sorts of things in life that make us happy if welet them. I guess stuff can make us happy for a while, but I wantyou to understand today, that many things in life do make us happy, but the problem is they won’t make us happy for ever. If we want tobe happy for ever, if we want that kind of happiness, we have tohave forgiveness -- a special kind of forgiveness that comes frombeing obedient to God.
To some people special things make them happy-- a special blanket, ora certain smell, a picture, or some thing that happens, like a breeze blowing. Maybe it might be some of those things that Brysonmentioned today; but whatever it is that makes us happy, we need to realize that what makes us eternally happy is our faithful obedience to God’s will. Life, you see, is full of problems and sorrows. Things that make us happy will last a little while, but we will face problems and uncertainties. There are still things that make us unhappy.
In our Bible reading today, we find out there are some special things that make us happy. The scripture comes from Psalm 36:5-10. Verse 5talks about God’s love and loyalty, verse six tells us about God’sgoodness and fairness, and in verse 7 David tells us that nothing ismore precious than God’s love and kindness for us. Maybe you willface problems today, but be sure to think about the special things inlife, the things that can truly make you happy, the blood of Jesus Christ and His giving Himself on the cross of Calvary for us.Continue to think that through all the things that might happen in life no matter what is going on, always serve God with faithful obedience. The way that we do that is to hear what he says,believe, repent of our sins, confess our faith, and then we are baptized, and spend a lifetime of prayer and attending church services. We also spend time giving of our time, talents, and treasures, teaching others, and studying the Bible for ourselves.. I hope today we can encourage you to be happy and to notice what true happiness really is. It’s a blessing from God.
Psalm 36:5-10 Your love, O LORD, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies. Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your justice like the great deep. O LORD, you preserve both man and beast. How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings. They feast on the abundance of your house; you give them drink from your river of delights. For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light. Continue your love to those who know you, your righteousness to the upright in heart.
~Philip
11 November 2009
MY HERO
Psalm 18: 1-6, 28-33
Today's a special day because I have my daughter Bryson with me. She is out of school today because it is Veteran's Day. We were talking about heroes. Bryson's heroes are Superman and Supergirl. I told her that real people could also be our heroes, like grandfathers, or fathers, or mothers. Then I asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up. "I want to be a teacher," she said. "Just like who" I said. "Like my Mom," she replied.
A lot of times teachers and coaches are our heroes. We are all aware of people we can look up to and call our heroes. Many times they are people who spend a lot time serving others. Today, of course, is a special day honoring those who are serving our country and defending our freedoms. We surely wouldn't want to live in a country where we wouldn't have freedom that God has blessed this country with. You know, we are free to think good or think bad.
I know a guy who had cancer. He had served in the military, and had been a hero in a lot of ways in his life. He decided that he would make the most of every day that he had, whether he had a 100 days, or however many days he had left. He was going to make the most out of life that he could.
Our Bible reading today states that David said God had given him strength and his family a special kind of strength to face each day. I think He still does that. God gives us the strength that we need to face the challenges of life.
I heard on TV this morning a reporter interviewing a soldier. He asked the soldier, "How do you have the courage to do what you do?" He said, "I don't know, it just kind of comes from inside." I think he is describing there the strength that comes from God that's within all of us -- that strength that we need to be working on and building. I hope that people can see Jesus in my life. I hope that they can see, not me as a hero so much, but Jesus living in me, as the hero. What a great hero for us all.. If you skip down in the text of Psalm 18 to verses 31 and 32, the Bible says, "There is no God except the Lord. There is no rock except our God. God gives me strength, He helps me live a pure life."
He not only helps us, but He helps our country, and as we thank God for those who are willing to serve today, we should also remember who is behind the man who is serving.
~Philip
Psalm 18: 1-6, 28-33
Today's a special day because I have my daughter Bryson with me. She is out of school today because it is Veteran's Day. We were talking about heroes. Bryson's heroes are Superman and Supergirl. I told her that real people could also be our heroes, like grandfathers, or fathers, or mothers. Then I asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up. "I want to be a teacher," she said. "Just like who" I said. "Like my Mom," she replied.
A lot of times teachers and coaches are our heroes. We are all aware of people we can look up to and call our heroes. Many times they are people who spend a lot time serving others. Today, of course, is a special day honoring those who are serving our country and defending our freedoms. We surely wouldn't want to live in a country where we wouldn't have freedom that God has blessed this country with. You know, we are free to think good or think bad.
I know a guy who had cancer. He had served in the military, and had been a hero in a lot of ways in his life. He decided that he would make the most of every day that he had, whether he had a 100 days, or however many days he had left. He was going to make the most out of life that he could.
Our Bible reading today states that David said God had given him strength and his family a special kind of strength to face each day. I think He still does that. God gives us the strength that we need to face the challenges of life.
I heard on TV this morning a reporter interviewing a soldier. He asked the soldier, "How do you have the courage to do what you do?" He said, "I don't know, it just kind of comes from inside." I think he is describing there the strength that comes from God that's within all of us -- that strength that we need to be working on and building. I hope that people can see Jesus in my life. I hope that they can see, not me as a hero so much, but Jesus living in me, as the hero. What a great hero for us all.. If you skip down in the text of Psalm 18 to verses 31 and 32, the Bible says, "There is no God except the Lord. There is no rock except our God. God gives me strength, He helps me live a pure life."
He not only helps us, but He helps our country, and as we thank God for those who are willing to serve today, we should also remember who is behind the man who is serving.
~Philip
09 November 2009
Please God
Galatians 1:6-10
When I wake up in the morning, especially when I was young, I worry about what I am going to wear for the day. Those of you who know me now might be in agreement with my secretary who says I just get up in the morning and whatever happens, happens.
A lot of times we still see people who worry about "What are people going to think about me?" We may worry if we are going to be accepted, or will people like the clothes we have on. We worry if people think our hair is goofy. We need to remember that we should please God and not man. Oh, it’s important, I guess, to try to look as good as I can and to set a good example for people around us. We certainly need to dress modestly. We certainly need to learn that important lesson. But in our Bible reading today, Paul reminds us and the Galatians, that there is only one message from God, and that message is the good news about salvation.
His message was not one of being concerned about how you look or concerned about your hair. Instead it was a message to be concerned about your salvation, about your soul. In verse 10 of our scripture reading, Paul said, "Now do you think that I am trying to get people to accept me?.... No!" God is the one I am trying to please. I’m not trying to please people. Am I trying to please people? No! If I wanted to please people I would not be a servant of Jesus Christ..
Kind of an interesting verse, isn’t it. Paul said he was not trying to please man, but trying to please God. Paul didn’t care if people around him thought he was popular or not. He only cared that he was preaching God’s truth, and what God thought about him. We should be like Paul. We should try to please God in everything that we do. Don’t worry about what other people think, just try to please God. If we do that, things will work out for the very best in our lives.
There’s another verse in our Bible over in I Thess. 4:1, the last part of the verse. "We taught you how to live in a way that would please God so that you would abound more and more.." Are you pleasing God today? Are you doing those things that God would have you to do. If not, why not make those changes that God would have you to make.
Galatians 1:6-10
When I wake up in the morning, especially when I was young, I worry about what I am going to wear for the day. Those of you who know me now might be in agreement with my secretary who says I just get up in the morning and whatever happens, happens.
A lot of times we still see people who worry about "What are people going to think about me?" We may worry if we are going to be accepted, or will people like the clothes we have on. We worry if people think our hair is goofy. We need to remember that we should please God and not man. Oh, it’s important, I guess, to try to look as good as I can and to set a good example for people around us. We certainly need to dress modestly. We certainly need to learn that important lesson. But in our Bible reading today, Paul reminds us and the Galatians, that there is only one message from God, and that message is the good news about salvation.
His message was not one of being concerned about how you look or concerned about your hair. Instead it was a message to be concerned about your salvation, about your soul. In verse 10 of our scripture reading, Paul said, "Now do you think that I am trying to get people to accept me?.... No!" God is the one I am trying to please. I’m not trying to please people. Am I trying to please people? No! If I wanted to please people I would not be a servant of Jesus Christ..
Kind of an interesting verse, isn’t it. Paul said he was not trying to please man, but trying to please God. Paul didn’t care if people around him thought he was popular or not. He only cared that he was preaching God’s truth, and what God thought about him. We should be like Paul. We should try to please God in everything that we do. Don’t worry about what other people think, just try to please God. If we do that, things will work out for the very best in our lives.
There’s another verse in our Bible over in I Thess. 4:1, the last part of the verse. "We taught you how to live in a way that would please God so that you would abound more and more.." Are you pleasing God today? Are you doing those things that God would have you to do. If not, why not make those changes that God would have you to make.
05 November 2009
STAY IN THE GAME
(Teamwork)
John 14
Yesterday we were talking about teamwork, and today I want to again mention the idea of making sure that we are on God’s team.
Recently a young lady from one of the surrounding schools wrote an e-mail to my office. In that e-mail she asked that I write an article on teamwork. Her volleyball and softball teams seem to struggle with understanding teamwork. I realize that Christians do too, and we as Christians need to really be part of God’s team. We need to be serious about what we are doing and we need to stay in the game. See, that’s the problem. That’s where so many people have problems with teamwork.
It’s not so much that they have problems wanting to be a member of the team, but instead, it is a problem with consistency , a problem with staying in the game. A well known coach and writer said, “There’s a secret to understanding teamwork and staying in the game. “ “The first thing is we should let the leader whoever that leader is, the coach, or in the Christian’s case, God , take us to where we can’t take ourselves.”
Isn’t that an important truth. We need to let God take us to where we can’t take ourselves. We need to allow God to direct our steps. I know that in games and sports---those kind of things. A lot of times coaches certainly have influenced our lives, have directed us in the direction we need to go and helped us make decisions, and all sorts of other things. When we allow them to do that it has really helped us. It is the same way with God. If we allow God to make decisions in our life, our life will be the best it possible be could be. Are you letting God make your decisions? Are you letting Him lead you in the direction you should go?
Now, the second thing he said was, “Realize how important it is for you to have a game plan when you start, for you and your team.” Again, as Christians we need to have a game plan don’t we? Our game plan should be reaching the lost. Our game plan should be that “I am going to set a goal this month of having one person that I lead to Christ.” What if all of us did that every month? Wow, it wouldn’t be long until our whole town was converted to Christ. It wouldn’t be long until we would see great things happening where we are.
The third thing he suggested was understand the five “C's” of teamwork. The first one is communication. We certainly need to talk to each other and God wants us to communicate with Him through prayer. He says also that we need to co operate with each other. We need to just get along don’t we, and do what we need to be doing. It says in our scripture reading today in John 14 “If you love Me keep My commandments.” For our purposes we might say as in verse 15, If you love Me you will co-operate. You will do what I ask you to do. Then, of course, we will contribute. God wants us to give of our time, talents, and treasures. He wants us to use what we have in service for the team. We need to commit. Certainly, God has told us to be faithful for a lifetime, hasn’t He. If we are faithful until death, then God will be well pleased with us. Finally we are to have Christ in our lives.The way to have Christ in our life is faithfully obeying His will. Faith + Obedience = Salvation. Have you obeyed God today? If not, you need to get right with God and serve Him until death.
~Philip
(Teamwork)
John 14
Yesterday we were talking about teamwork, and today I want to again mention the idea of making sure that we are on God’s team.
Recently a young lady from one of the surrounding schools wrote an e-mail to my office. In that e-mail she asked that I write an article on teamwork. Her volleyball and softball teams seem to struggle with understanding teamwork. I realize that Christians do too, and we as Christians need to really be part of God’s team. We need to be serious about what we are doing and we need to stay in the game. See, that’s the problem. That’s where so many people have problems with teamwork.
It’s not so much that they have problems wanting to be a member of the team, but instead, it is a problem with consistency , a problem with staying in the game. A well known coach and writer said, “There’s a secret to understanding teamwork and staying in the game. “ “The first thing is we should let the leader whoever that leader is, the coach, or in the Christian’s case, God , take us to where we can’t take ourselves.”
Isn’t that an important truth. We need to let God take us to where we can’t take ourselves. We need to allow God to direct our steps. I know that in games and sports---those kind of things. A lot of times coaches certainly have influenced our lives, have directed us in the direction we need to go and helped us make decisions, and all sorts of other things. When we allow them to do that it has really helped us. It is the same way with God. If we allow God to make decisions in our life, our life will be the best it possible be could be. Are you letting God make your decisions? Are you letting Him lead you in the direction you should go?
Now, the second thing he said was, “Realize how important it is for you to have a game plan when you start, for you and your team.” Again, as Christians we need to have a game plan don’t we? Our game plan should be reaching the lost. Our game plan should be that “I am going to set a goal this month of having one person that I lead to Christ.” What if all of us did that every month? Wow, it wouldn’t be long until our whole town was converted to Christ. It wouldn’t be long until we would see great things happening where we are.
The third thing he suggested was understand the five “C's” of teamwork. The first one is communication. We certainly need to talk to each other and God wants us to communicate with Him through prayer. He says also that we need to co operate with each other. We need to just get along don’t we, and do what we need to be doing. It says in our scripture reading today in John 14 “If you love Me keep My commandments.” For our purposes we might say as in verse 15, If you love Me you will co-operate. You will do what I ask you to do. Then, of course, we will contribute. God wants us to give of our time, talents, and treasures. He wants us to use what we have in service for the team. We need to commit. Certainly, God has told us to be faithful for a lifetime, hasn’t He. If we are faithful until death, then God will be well pleased with us. Finally we are to have Christ in our lives.The way to have Christ in our life is faithfully obeying His will. Faith + Obedience = Salvation. Have you obeyed God today? If not, you need to get right with God and serve Him until death.
~Philip
04 November 2009
TEAMWORK
Hebrews 11
I remember very well as the clock was about to expire at a ballgame. It was fourth and goal and the team was behind, going in to score what could have been the winning touchdown. The players reported that the coach called time-out, came out and talked to them, asking one player, the biggest guy on the line, "Hey, can you block for one play?" The answer came back, "Yes, for this play I can." And sure enough the ball was snapped, the play was run and the guy missed his block. The tackle was made just short of the goal line and the game ended, the team we were pulling for losing the ballgame.
You know, sometimes,it doesn't matter so much what is going on, but whether we are willing to work together or not. Teamwork is one of those areas in life where we have to be willing to work. Whether we are the quarterback who gives the play, or who says where to line up and tells everyone to listen in the huddle, or whether we are the one who actually gets the ball and is running the play, or whether we are the lineman who needs to block and for some reason doesn't, we all need to learn to work together.
The final outcome is that everybody wins if we work together, but if we fail to work together, the fact is that everybody loses -- the coaches, the players, and everybody in between. The game was lost that night because everyone didn't want to do their part.
What about us? What went wrong with that game, and what goes wrong with us sometimes is that we let our guard down. We don't even attempt to do what we should be doing. As a result we let our team down. Let me encourage you to be a team player. Let me encourage you to help your team win, especially when it comes to our spiritually team.
I believe that Christians should wear the team uniform. We should look like Christians. We should talk like Christians. We should act like Christian team members should act. We should do all those things that God wants us to do, because if we love Him we will keep His commandments. John 14:15 says, "If you love Me you will obey My commandments."
We know that as individuals-- as parts of a team, we all work individually to make up the whole, and as we do our job, however big or small it may seem, then and only then, will we be successful. Oh, with God on our team we already have advantge don't we? But things can be even better you see, if we are willing to work together be on a team for God, and if we are willing to do it His way: To let Him be the leader of our team, to guide our steps. In Galatans 2:20, Paul said, " I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless, I live yet not I, but Christ lives in me. And the life I know lives in the flesh. I live by faith and the Son of God loved me and gave Himself for me." See, Paul was willing to be a team player. To listen to God and to do His instructions. What about you?
In our scripture reading to day, Hebrews 11, we see what is commonly referred to as the "Roll call of faith" Here are all of these people who by faith took action, who by faith they did God's will. They were warned of things that had not been seen, and prepared an ark like Noah. Or they moved, not knowing where they were moving to, just knowing where they were moving from, like Abraham. The list goes on and on about people who faithfully served God. The question is "Will you faithfully serve God today?" I hope the answer is yes.
~Philip
Hebrews 11
I remember very well as the clock was about to expire at a ballgame. It was fourth and goal and the team was behind, going in to score what could have been the winning touchdown. The players reported that the coach called time-out, came out and talked to them, asking one player, the biggest guy on the line, "Hey, can you block for one play?" The answer came back, "Yes, for this play I can." And sure enough the ball was snapped, the play was run and the guy missed his block. The tackle was made just short of the goal line and the game ended, the team we were pulling for losing the ballgame.
You know, sometimes,it doesn't matter so much what is going on, but whether we are willing to work together or not. Teamwork is one of those areas in life where we have to be willing to work. Whether we are the quarterback who gives the play, or who says where to line up and tells everyone to listen in the huddle, or whether we are the one who actually gets the ball and is running the play, or whether we are the lineman who needs to block and for some reason doesn't, we all need to learn to work together.
The final outcome is that everybody wins if we work together, but if we fail to work together, the fact is that everybody loses -- the coaches, the players, and everybody in between. The game was lost that night because everyone didn't want to do their part.
What about us? What went wrong with that game, and what goes wrong with us sometimes is that we let our guard down. We don't even attempt to do what we should be doing. As a result we let our team down. Let me encourage you to be a team player. Let me encourage you to help your team win, especially when it comes to our spiritually team.
I believe that Christians should wear the team uniform. We should look like Christians. We should talk like Christians. We should act like Christian team members should act. We should do all those things that God wants us to do, because if we love Him we will keep His commandments. John 14:15 says, "If you love Me you will obey My commandments."
We know that as individuals-- as parts of a team, we all work individually to make up the whole, and as we do our job, however big or small it may seem, then and only then, will we be successful. Oh, with God on our team we already have advantge don't we? But things can be even better you see, if we are willing to work together be on a team for God, and if we are willing to do it His way: To let Him be the leader of our team, to guide our steps. In Galatans 2:20, Paul said, " I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless, I live yet not I, but Christ lives in me. And the life I know lives in the flesh. I live by faith and the Son of God loved me and gave Himself for me." See, Paul was willing to be a team player. To listen to God and to do His instructions. What about you?
In our scripture reading to day, Hebrews 11, we see what is commonly referred to as the "Roll call of faith" Here are all of these people who by faith took action, who by faith they did God's will. They were warned of things that had not been seen, and prepared an ark like Noah. Or they moved, not knowing where they were moving to, just knowing where they were moving from, like Abraham. The list goes on and on about people who faithfully served God. The question is "Will you faithfully serve God today?" I hope the answer is yes.
~Philip
03 November 2009
GOD CHOSE ME
EPHESIANS 2:4-10
There are a lot times in our lives when we can't understand why God can love us. How God can love me. Our young people sing that song, "Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so." Truly the Bible tells us that God loves us and cares for us. Jesus loved us enough to die on the cross for us. But still, we sometimes wonder how God could love us. We look at our bodies and think they are not what we would like for them to be. We realize that we are weak in one particular area. Sometimes we might think about our fingers being stiff, or it might be difficult for us to walk. Sometimes we might not be able to think clearly, and all the rest. But God does love us.
If we wonder how God could love somebody who is not perfect and doesn't have all things together in life, what we realize is, God created us for a purpose -- chose us to be His children.
He loves me even though I have physical problems, even though I might not be perfect physically or spiritually, God loves me anyway. Our Bible reading today comes from a very encouraging text. Let me encourage you to get your Bibles and read that scripture for yourself (Ephesians 2:4-10). Don't take my word, or any other preacher's word for it. Check it out and make sure we are accurate, and if we are then apply them in your life.
Verse 10 of that text says "God has made us what we are. God made us new people so that we can do good works." God has already planned those things for us. God has planned for us to live our lives doing those good things. What a great verse. God created you to do good works and serve God. If you do those things God is well pleased, despite not being physically strong, or whatever the case may be. God knew that I would sin. He knew that I would need salvation, and that is why he sent Jesus to pay the price for my sins.
God's mercy is very great, and God's love is very strong. Wow, it does not matter what our condition might be. Oh,I think we should keep our bodies in good shape, but in the end, that doesnt' really matter so much. What matters is, God loves me, and if I will love Him back, which means that if I'll do what He says, then I will have a place in eternity. God has chosen you to be His child too. I would encourage you to accept His love, to accept His salvation. To faithfully obey His will today.
If you repent of your sins, confess your faith, be baptized for remission of your sins, then live faithfully until death, then you will save your life. God will be pleased and we will spend eternity in heaven together. Won't that be great to spend an eternity there with others we know and with God Himself. I want to go to heaven and I hope you do too.
~Philip
EPHESIANS 2:4-10
There are a lot times in our lives when we can't understand why God can love us. How God can love me. Our young people sing that song, "Jesus loves me this I know for the Bible tells me so." Truly the Bible tells us that God loves us and cares for us. Jesus loved us enough to die on the cross for us. But still, we sometimes wonder how God could love us. We look at our bodies and think they are not what we would like for them to be. We realize that we are weak in one particular area. Sometimes we might think about our fingers being stiff, or it might be difficult for us to walk. Sometimes we might not be able to think clearly, and all the rest. But God does love us.
If we wonder how God could love somebody who is not perfect and doesn't have all things together in life, what we realize is, God created us for a purpose -- chose us to be His children.
He loves me even though I have physical problems, even though I might not be perfect physically or spiritually, God loves me anyway. Our Bible reading today comes from a very encouraging text. Let me encourage you to get your Bibles and read that scripture for yourself (Ephesians 2:4-10). Don't take my word, or any other preacher's word for it. Check it out and make sure we are accurate, and if we are then apply them in your life.
Verse 10 of that text says "God has made us what we are. God made us new people so that we can do good works." God has already planned those things for us. God has planned for us to live our lives doing those good things. What a great verse. God created you to do good works and serve God. If you do those things God is well pleased, despite not being physically strong, or whatever the case may be. God knew that I would sin. He knew that I would need salvation, and that is why he sent Jesus to pay the price for my sins.
God's mercy is very great, and God's love is very strong. Wow, it does not matter what our condition might be. Oh,I think we should keep our bodies in good shape, but in the end, that doesnt' really matter so much. What matters is, God loves me, and if I will love Him back, which means that if I'll do what He says, then I will have a place in eternity. God has chosen you to be His child too. I would encourage you to accept His love, to accept His salvation. To faithfully obey His will today.
If you repent of your sins, confess your faith, be baptized for remission of your sins, then live faithfully until death, then you will save your life. God will be pleased and we will spend eternity in heaven together. Won't that be great to spend an eternity there with others we know and with God Himself. I want to go to heaven and I hope you do too.
~Philip
NO RETIREMENT
Psalm 92:1-15
Many people look forward to one day when they will retire from their jobs; maybe their plans are to travel. My wife and I want to buy a motor home and travel, maybe do some sojourning, doing church work, and enjoying retirement as well. Maybe it is that you want to enjoy your hobby, or whatever it is you like to do on the side. Maybe you plan to retire, but when you do, your list of things to do at home is so long that you can't retire for a while.
Whatever the case, there seems to be that goal out in front of us in life that we look for that day.
I've got some news for you. There is no retirement from God. God uses people until the day they die. It doesn't matter if people are physically strong or weak, they can still serve God and do things God wants them to do. Even the weakest of people could pray and be a witness for God. Even through retirement that stretches out through all of those years, we need to be busy working for God. The question is, how can you serve God? You can share your life experiences and wisdom with young people. You can be a teacher and you can encourage young Christians. You can volunteer at a hospital, a nursing home, or school. You can be busy teaching others. You can do great jobs for God.
Don't forget that when we retire, our job is not only with the local church, but it may expand even beyond that. You may find after you retire you can go back to Christian Camp or go somewhere else and do great work that you haven't been able to do for God before.
My encouragement for you today is simply not to leave God out of our plans. Verse 92:14 of our Bible reading says these words: "Even when they are old will continue to produce fruit like young healthy trees." God uses all peope, both young and old. There is no retirement from Christian service. Look for ways that you can serve God, look for ways today that you can be busy working for Him.
~Philip
Psalm 92:1-15
Many people look forward to one day when they will retire from their jobs; maybe their plans are to travel. My wife and I want to buy a motor home and travel, maybe do some sojourning, doing church work, and enjoying retirement as well. Maybe it is that you want to enjoy your hobby, or whatever it is you like to do on the side. Maybe you plan to retire, but when you do, your list of things to do at home is so long that you can't retire for a while.
Whatever the case, there seems to be that goal out in front of us in life that we look for that day.
I've got some news for you. There is no retirement from God. God uses people until the day they die. It doesn't matter if people are physically strong or weak, they can still serve God and do things God wants them to do. Even the weakest of people could pray and be a witness for God. Even through retirement that stretches out through all of those years, we need to be busy working for God. The question is, how can you serve God? You can share your life experiences and wisdom with young people. You can be a teacher and you can encourage young Christians. You can volunteer at a hospital, a nursing home, or school. You can be busy teaching others. You can do great jobs for God.
Don't forget that when we retire, our job is not only with the local church, but it may expand even beyond that. You may find after you retire you can go back to Christian Camp or go somewhere else and do great work that you haven't been able to do for God before.
My encouragement for you today is simply not to leave God out of our plans. Verse 92:14 of our Bible reading says these words: "Even when they are old will continue to produce fruit like young healthy trees." God uses all peope, both young and old. There is no retirement from Christian service. Look for ways that you can serve God, look for ways today that you can be busy working for Him.
~Philip
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