|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
Joy in Believing
May 8, 2009
"Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory." (1 Peter 1:8)
After His resurrection, the Lord acknowledged the legitimate need for evidence of such a mighty miracle, honouring the request of Thomas to see for himself that He had, indeed, returned from the grave. Nevertheless, Thomas could and should have believed the evidence from the other disciples, when they testified of the empty tomb and the previous appearances of Christ. Consequently, the Lord Jesus gave a mild but loving rebuke to His doubting disciple. "Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed" (John 20:29).
It is not that the Lord wants us to be credulous, believing something with no basis except blind faith. Today we have an abundance of solid evidence, more even than the disciples themselves had, and there is no excuse not to believe. Nevertheless, we must believe; "For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it" (Romans 8:24-25).
We cannot yet see Him with our eyes, as Thomas did, but we see Him with our hearts, and that is enough. As we read of Him in the Word, we see Him on the cross, taking "our sins in His own body" (1 Peter 2:24) and it breaks our hearts. Then we read of the empty tomb and the linen clothes, and are like John, who "saw, and believed" (John 20:8). Then we "rejoice with joy" (literally, "exult with exceeding gladness"), which cannot be told vocally any more than He can be seen visually. One day soon we shall really see Him in His glory, and "when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is" (1 John 3:2). HMM
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
Christ: Our ExampleMay 9, 2009 "For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps." (1 Peter 2:21) Some have tried to pattern their lives after that of Jesus, simply by asking in every situation, "What would Jesus do?" But in the context of our text, the primary "example" which He left us was nothing less than His own sacrificial death! Note the context: "For this is thankworthy |same word as 'grace'|, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully . . . if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, yet take it patiently, this is acceptable |also the same word as 'grace'| with God" (1 Peter 2:19-20). To follow Christ's example, therefore, is to be willing to endure unjustified suffering--even defamation and persecution--with grace and patience. But that is not all; we must also do it in silence! "Who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not" (1 Peter 2:23). "As a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth" (Isaiah 53:7). It is a natural reaction to want to strike back at one who has slandered or injured us, especially if such an act was an insulting response to kindness. But such a "natural" reaction was not Christ's reaction. He could have called "twelve legions of angels" (Matthew 26:53) to His defense, but He chose to suffer in silence. And why would He do such a thing? First, if He had not done so, we would have been lost in our sins forever. He "bare our sins in His own body on the tree" (1 Peter 2:24). Second, He left us an example, that we "should follow his steps." He was not just silent in His sufferings; "He suffered for us!" If we would really be like Him, we must be willing to suffer quietly on behalf of others, even when they are the ones who deserve it. This is acceptable with God! HMM http://www.icr.org/article/4429/
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
God's Mother Heart
May 10, 2009
"How often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings." (Matthew 23:37)
The dominant gender used in the Scriptures to describe God is male. That certainly should not come as a surprise to anyone with a passing knowledge of God's Word. However, there are a few references (such as our text above) that imply His "mother heart" as well.
Even that should not be too much of a surprise. The Creator of male and female (Genesis 1:27) caused both to bear His image, and both share the divine nature (2 Peter 1:4) after they have been born again. Obviously, the "Cause" of the female being--especially one specifically designed to "mother" humanity--would possess a mother's heart.
It is interesting to note that Wisdom is personified as female in the first four chapters of Proverbs. Wisdom has its source in the Creator, and the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are specifically said to be hidden in Christ Jesus (Colossians 2:3). These indirect hints would easily tie into Christ's statement that He yearned for Jerusalem like a hen for her chickens.
Then, there is the virtuous woman of Proverbs 31. Some have suggested that this ideal person is none other than the representative of what Christ would be like if He were to take human form as a woman. That may or may not be, but the "virtue" of this lady is surely not normal! If nothing else, we can acknowledge that this beautiful woman "excellest them all" (Proverbs 31:29) and is a magnificent reflection of the mother and wife whose "price is far above rubies."
As we honour our earthly mothers this special day, may we also give thanks to the Creator who made the unique female nature that reflects the complete and pure love of God for His children (1 John 4:19). HMM III
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
Great Is the Lord
May 11, 2009
"For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised: He also is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the people are idols: but the LORD made the heavens." (1 Chronicles 16:25-26)
This testimony is in the heart of a great hymn of thanksgiving (1 Chronicles 16:7-36) composed by David when the Ark of the Lord was brought back to Jerusalem. It is a testimony of the unique greatness of the God of Israel, with recurring expressions of gratitude for His deliverances and blessings.
This God of Israel was no mere tribal-god or nature-god, such as Dagon, the fish-god of the Philistines from whose hands the Ark had been delivered. All such "gods" of the peoples of the earth--whether wooden images in a shrine, astrological emblems in the heavens, or mental constructs of evolutionary humanistic philosophers--are nothing but idols (that is, literally, "good for nothing," "vanities").
It is Jehovah God who is not only in the heavens, but who made the heavens! It is their Creator who one day will "let the sea roar" and "the fields rejoice," when "the trees of the wood sing out at the presence of the LORD, because He cometh to judge the earth" (vv. 32-33).
As Creator and Saviour, all His people are exhorted also to "shew forth from day to day His salvation. Declare His glory among the heathen; His marvellous works among all nations" (vv. 23-24). Because of His power, the world itself "shall be stable |that is, 'permanently established'|, that it be not moved" (v. 30). This "God of our salvation" (v. 35), and the wonderful heavens and earth He created, will be forever. The psalm ends with the exhortation: "O give thanks unto the LORD; for He is good; for His mercy endureth for ever. . . . Blessed be the LORD God of Israel for ever and ever" (vv. 34-36).
Now, if Israel needed such an exhortation, our modern science-worshiping world needs it still more urgently. HMM
|
|
|
|
|
|
emporium (m)
|
Hi All, the website below is a UK ecommerce store founded to cater for christians in particular and the public in general.The vision is to make quality products available to everyone at some of the FAIREST and LOWEST prices. It is also to empower the economically challenged, economically. We stock a broad range of consumer goods ranging from items as minute as cufflinks, designer shirts,shoes and bags, to high value items like plasma TVs and computers.We do retail and wholesale at some of the LOWEST prices available in the UK.We sell below half the price of most high street stores on many products! Importantly,we ship to Nigeria at very reasonable rates.In most cases ,you do not need to pay upfront for goods ordered from our company (which is a bona fide UK registered company). All you need do is visit the website, then send an email or call us to indicate what you are interested in.We will respond giving you details on shipping cost, etc. We will ship all items to Lagos from where you can collect from one of our local Representatives.It is essentially cash and carry. We also collaborate with two Christian ministries in Nigeria to help small business owners develop their business by providing a variety of goods at highly competitive wholesale prices direct from the UK . We can also arrange container loads on ex chainstore ( Argos, Tesco etc ) products, at below 50% of the usual store prices. Website: www.christianmarkets.co.ukEmail: sales@christianmarkets.co.ukRegistered business address: Christian Markets Ltd Unit B7, Eurolink Business Centre, 49 Effra Road, London Sw2 1bz, United Kingdom Tel.+44(0)2077375288 ; 00447554003717
"I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive." Acts 20:35 |
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
Wait on the Lord
May 12, 2009
"Wait on the LORD, and keep His way, and He shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it." (Psalm 37:34)
In spite of the occasional successes of the wicked, we are to "wait on the LORD." The Hebrew word used in this passage for "wait" is unusual. The term quvah describes the "binding together" of strings to make a cord. The same word was used to "collect" the water and dry land into separate areas on the third day of creation.
It carries the idea of anticipation toward useful results and does not mean to "hang around and wait." It does not imply useless boredom, waiting for something to happen. The essence of the term is to be alert, watching the events and activities of the Lord and reacting to His timing and direction. Indeed, the word is translated "look" as often as any other term.
The great promise of "eagle’s wings" recorded by Isaiah tells us that the source of our victory comes from the Lord alone: "But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint" (Isaiah 40:31).
That great promise, which is a comfort to so many, is based on the fact that the "Creator of the ends of the earth" is the One making the promise (Isaiah 40:28).
As Psalm 37 comes to a close, the summary contains both instructions and blessings: "Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace. But . . . the end of the wicked shall be cut off. But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD; He is their strength in the time of trouble. And the LORD shall help them, and deliver them: He shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in Him" (Psalm 37:37-40). HMM III
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
The Point of No Return
May 13, 2009
"Ephraim is joined to idols: let him alone." (Hosea 4:17)
Our God is long-suffering and full of mercy, but there is a line which must not be crossed. It is dangerous to presume that God will always continue to forgive; He can become a "consuming fire" (Hebrews 12:29).
The leaders of Ephraim (a collective term for the ten northern tribes of Israel) had passed this point of no return. They had become completely infatuated with the pantheistic polytheism of the nations, being "joined" to their symbolic models of natural forces and all the immoral practices which accompanied such nature worship. The word for "joined" means "fascinated by." They had been brought so deeply under the occult powers behind these nature-god idols as to be irrevocably committed to them, so that it would be a waste of time and tears to try to reclaim them now.
The Scriptures contain many similar warnings. "My spirit shall not always strive with man" (Genesis 6:3). "Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind" (Matthew 15:14). "There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it" (1 John 5:16). "Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine" (Matthew 7:6). Pharaoh repeatedly "hardened his heart" against God, and finally God Himself hardened Pharaoh's heart (e.g., Exodus 8:15; 10:27). "God gave them up" (Romans 1:24, 26, 28).
These should be sobering words to anyone who is becoming enchanted with evolutionism, or occultism, or any form of pantheistic humanism. As long as such a person has any qualm of conscience, or even any doubts about the pseudo-scientific philosophy to which he is becoming addicted, there is hope that he might yet turn to the true God of creation. To continue in his present course, however, is presumptuous and deadly. The time will come, perhaps sooner than he thinks, when God will say: "Let him alone." HMM
|
|
|
|
|
|
bsanya (f)
|
ANALYTICAL!!!
God bless u real good!
|
|
|
|
|
|
PurestBoy (m)
|
This thread is great and wonderful I've leanrt so much and may God continue to bless the contributors.
Olaadegbu, you are wonderful and may God bless you
|
|
|
|
|
|
Image123 (m)
|
You cannot profess to value Christ,
Until you value Him above all.
You cannot confess to know Him,
Until you reflect His character before all.
Christ doesn't just want to be PRESENT in you;
He doesn't even want to be PROMINENT;
He wants to be PRE-EMINENT;
To be your Lord and your All-in-all.
A life fully yielded to Christ is a life of blessed rest.
Many great men have said many great things,
But none except Christ could give this comforting assurance
"Come unto me, and I will give you rest. "
culled from (C) Christian Women Mirror magazine. p8, April 2009.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Image123 (m)
|
You cannot profess to value Christ,
Until you value Him above all.
You cannot confess to know Him,
Until you reflect His character before all.
Christ doesn't just want to be PRESENT in you;
He doesn't even want to be PROMINENT;
He wants to be PRE-EMINENT;
To be your Lord and your All-in-all.
A life fully yielded to Christ is a life of blessed rest.
Many great men have said many great things,
But none except Christ could give this comforting assurance
"Come unto me, and I will give you rest. "
culled from (C) Christian Women Mirror magazine. p8, April 2009.
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
The Sun
May 14, 2009
"Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race. His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it: and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof." (Psalm 19:5-6)
This well-loved psalm provides us a glimpse of God’s creative majesty: "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth His handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge" (vv. 1-2).
Modern science has shown that the universe in which we live is really a tri-universe--a continuum of space/time/energy (or information). Thus the first two verses of this psalm, by focusing our attention on "the heavens . . . the firmament" (space), "day . . . night" (time), and "speech . . . knowledge" (information/energy), reveal a scientific truth long before its "scientific" discovery.
There is, of course, one created source of energy which typifies this energy. Speaking of space and time, the psalmist claims, "In them hath He set a tabernacle for the sun" (v. 4), which is further described in our text verses. The sun is like a bridegroom, fully dressed in wedding garb, radiating joy as he comes forth. It is also like a champion runner, fully able to run the race and gain the victory.
The sun’s energy, radiating out in all directions, not only energizes the earth, but the entire solar system as well. Furthermore, it is now known that the sun traverses the galaxy in a gigantic orbit with its energy bathing each part. Truly, "there is nothing hid from the heat thereof" (text verse).
Only the Creator of space, time, and energy--the Creator of the sun, the solar system, the Milky Way Galaxy, and the universe--could have known these things. That Creator, through the empowering ministry of the Holy Spirit, is the author of this psalm. JDM
|
|
|
|
|
|
mekoyo (m)
|
The sweeter morsel for the worm?
Spurgeon, "The Profit of Godliness in the Life to Come"
How many live for that poor body of theirs
which so soon must moulder back to the dust!
To dress,
to adorn themselves,
to catch the glance of the admirer's eye,
to satisfy public taste,
to follow fashion,
surely an object in life more frivolous
never engrossed an immortal soul.
It seems as strange as if an angel should
be gathering daisies or blowing soap bubbles!
An immortal spirit living . . .
to dress the body,
to paint the face,
to dye the hair,
to display a ribbon,
to show off a pin;
is this the pursuit of an immortal being?
Yet tens of thousands live for little else!
As for earth's most lovely ones, how do time, and
death, and the worm together, make havoc of them!
Take up yonder skull, just upturned by the sexton's
careless spade, and take it to the yonder beauty,
and tell her, though she paint an inch thick, to this
complexion she must come at last! All her dressing
shall end in a shroud, and all her makeup and her
dainty ornaments shall only make her the sweeter
morsel for the worm!
Beloved friends, there is another life beyond this
fleeting existence! Why then, do you waste your
time and degrade your souls with these frivolities?
"But godliness has value for all things, holding promise
for both the present life and the life to come." 1 Tim. 4:8
|
|
|
|
|
|
krisunion
|
So what happened to d fellowship?
Well, peace to all in d house. God bless!
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
Thy Word Is Settled Forever
May 15, 2009
"But Zerubbabel, and Jeshua, and the rest of the chief of the fathers of Israel, said unto them, Ye have nothing to do with us to build an house unto our God; but we ourselves together will build unto the LORD God of Israel, as king Cyrus the king of Persia hath commanded us." (Ezra 4:3)
When the Jews returned from their Babylonian captivity, they had been authorized by King Cyrus to rebuild their temple. Zerubbabel, their governor, and Jeshua, the high priest, re-established the ancient offerings and laid the foundations of the temple. But then a problem surfaced. The people of the land, who were practicing a corrupt monotheism, offered to join with them in the project. Zerubbabel and Jeshua wisely rejected it.
The wisdom of this harsh rebuff soon became evident. The compromisers then tried other ways to destroy the project. Since they were unable to subvert it by infiltration, they used political and social pressures to try to corrupt God's people and prevent the reestablishment of true faith in the land.
The principle involved in this record is timeless. To be honouring to the Lord and fruitful in His service, the Lord's work must be done only by His own people, without compromise in doctrine or practice.
Christians and Christian organizations today are subjected to repeated temptations to compromise with the world system, especially to humanistic philosophies, but this is the surest route to ultimate defeat. "Beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness" (2 Peter 3:17).
This principle, if we follow Ezra's example, applies even to cooperation with other believers who compromise with the world (e.g., "theistic" evolution). Such compromise soon permeates the ranks even of the faithful, so must not be introduced at all. HMM
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
We Are His Image
May 16, 2009
"And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him." (Colossians 3:10)
Man's body is made of the same "earth" material (Genesis 2:7) as the animals (v. 19) and as the earth itself (Genesis 1:10). Furthermore, he shares the created "soul" (Hebrew nephesh) and "spirit" (Hebrew ruach, same as "breath") with the animals (compare 1:21; 7:15, where nephesh and ruach respectively are used of the animals). However, he shares the created "image of God" (1:27) only with God Himself.
Ever since Adam and Eve first sinned, all people have been born in innate rebellion against Him. The image of God in man has been grievously marred, and we are "dead in trespasses and sins" (Ephesians 2:1).
However, as our text reminds us, the image of God in man can be "renewed" through the great miracle of the new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). And this includes more than just our soul/spirit nature, for we have His gracious promise that our own resurrection bodies will be "fashioned like unto His glorious body" (Philippians 3:21) when He comes again.
Evidently, God had all this in mind from the very beginning, when "in the likeness of God made He him" (Genesis 5:1). That is, He foreknew that He would one day become man, in the person of Jesus Christ, and so He created man in the image and likeness of that body/soul/spirit complex which He Himself would eventually assume.
In some mysterious way, Christ Himself is, in His eternal and glorified human body, the "image of the invisible God" (Colossians 1:15), and God amazingly has even predestinated us "to be conformed to the image of His Son" (Romans 8:29) and "we shall be like Him" when we finally "see Him as He is" (1 John 3:2). HMM
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
Joshua's Long Day
May 17, 2009
"And there was no day like that before it or after it, that the LORD hearkened unto the voice of a man: for the LORD fought for Israel." (Joshua 10:14)
One of the most amazing events of history occurred when "the LORD fought for Israel" to enable them to conquer and occupy the Promised Land, even to the extent that, on one occasion, "the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day" (Joshua 10:13).
Some quibble about the language employed, suggesting that Joshua thought the sun "moves," instead of the earth. The fact is, the motion of any heavenly body must be given in terms of relative motion (since all objects in the universe are moving in some way). Scientists normally assume the fixed point of zero motion to be the one which makes their equations most convenient to use, and this usually is the earth's surface at the location of the observer. Joshua's language was . . . quite scientific!
Furthermore, many scholars have documented numerous traditions of a "long day" (or "long night," in the western hemisphere) about the time of Joshua. The biblical story is well supported as a real fact of history. There was a long day!
Such an event required the direct intervention of the Creator Himself. He who had started the earth rotating in the first place, when He separated day and night (Genesis 1:3-5), now slowed it down again until it stopped, and the daylight continued until Joshua could rout the Amorites.
God may not usually answer prayers and fulfill promises by such a mighty miracle as this, but He does answer prayer and keep His Word, and this unique event shows He is willing and able to do whatever is needed to accomplish His will. "The sun and moon stood still in their habitation: at the light of thine arrows they went. . . . Thou wentest forth for the salvation of thy people" (Habakkuk 3:11-13). HMM
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
Creator of Wind and Calm
May 18, 2009
"But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him!" (Matthew 8:27)
Waves large enough to cover a ship on a small lake in a short time could only have been generated by a tremendously powerful wind, and such a wind would require a mighty complex of forces in the atmosphere, triggered by the sun itself. Furthermore, even when the wind dies down, the waves will continue for a time. But suddenly both ceased at once, and "there was a great calm" (v. 26). No known natural force could have produced such a phenomenon, yet there it was.
A man had simply spoken a word: "Peace, be still" (Mark 4:39). How could He control the sea? "The sea is His, and He made it" (Psalm 95:5)—that is how! And what about the stormy wind? God Himself "bringeth the wind out of His treasuries" (Psalm 135:7), even when need be, the "stormy wind fulfilling His word" (148:8).
God can use the storms of life to cause us to call on Him for deliverance. "For He commandeth, and raiseth the stormy wind, which lifteth up the waves thereof. . . . Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and He bringeth them out of their distresses. He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still" (Psalm 107:25, 28-29).
What manner of man can do such things? Only the God/Man, Jesus Christ. He is the omnipotent, living Word, the "Creator of the ends of the earth" (Isaiah 40:28). It is He by whom "were all things created," and it therefore follows that "by Him all things consist" (Colossians 1:16-17). "For in Him we live, and move, and have our being" (Acts 17:28).
If this eternal Word (who was "made flesh" and was now sleeping in a small boat on the Sea of Galilee) could speak the mighty cosmos into being, it is no great thing for Him to speak peace to a stormy sea or to bring rest to His loved ones in their times of turmoil and fear. HMM
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
Scripture Memorization
May 19, 2009
"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee." (Psalm 119:11)
The memorizing of Scripture has become almost a lost art among Christians today, and it is a great loss, for storing Scripture in the heart can be a great blessing in one's Christian life and witness.
The example of the early Christians is clear: Peter, Stephen, Paul, and others quoted extensively from the Old Testament in their impromptu sermons (Acts 2:17-21; 7:32-34; 13:33-35; etc.), and the same has been true of most of the great preachers and teachers of the Word ever since. There are multitudes of situations where it is of great help to be able to cite from memory an appropriate Scripture passage.
In our present generation, there have been many Christian lay organizations--the Gideons, the Navigators, the Bible Memory Association, and others--that have strongly urged their members to memorize Scripture and have experienced great blessing as a result. Any Christian can do it if he tries and will find his Christian life strengthened in the process.
But the main reason for memorizing Scripture is the Word itself in effect commands it: "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord" (Colossians 3:16).
The Lord Jesus Himself, in His humanity, no doubt learned the Scriptures as a boy (Luke 2:47, 52) and then quoted from them extensively in His many discourses, "leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps" (1 Peter 2:21). He provided a perfect illustration of the validity of our text, defeating Satan in each of his three temptations simply by quoting a Scripture verse that He had long before hidden in His heart (Matthew 4:4, 7, 10). For the Word truly to be in our lives, it needs to be in our hearts. HMM
|
|
|
|
|
|
jumoke 90 (f)
|
A friend wrote this and i decided to share with with fellow christians on nairaland, be Blessed, pls read it,
Ever heard the phrase, "UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL" ?
I have seriously realized that the issue of the Law vs. Faith is much more common than I thought it was in the Church.
It is so disheartening to think that we have become so blind that we try to be "self-righteous" in a sense because we lose focus on what really matters.
The real question though is, by what do we base our standards on? Seems to me like the Bible is the most abused book in terms of interpretation. We all want to read it the way that suits our lifestyle.
Let us pray for the Holy Spirit to give us understanding of the word of God.
This topic is one that requires wisdom to handle. So many of us have set our opinions in concrete that it becomes useless to try to erase it.
Recently, i have encountered Christians who follow certain observances and regulations
but I want to give a take home message.
Whatever it is you have set to live your life by, know that we have been saved by GRACE. Not our works.
We have been told that "Clearly, no one is justified before God by the law, because the righteous will live by faith" (Galatians 3:11)
Paul asks a very interesting question, "Did you receive the Spirit by observing the law, or by believing what you heard? Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort? have you suffered so much for nothing-if it really was for nothing?" (Galatians 3:2-4)
How much clearer can it get? Paul knew the problem, and he addressed it.
Jesus clearly demonstrated the faultiness of the law when he healed the man with the shriveled hand on the Sabbath.
So, Does that mean we pay no attention to the law? No.
Rather, we should "uphold the law" (Romans 3:31). Not use is as a way to righteousness.
Christ knew we couldn't manage to strictly follow the law. We would have been doomed because the Bible tells us "Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the law."
Therefore, "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us"
So please rejoice! "NOW THAT FAITH HAS COME, WE ARE NO LONGER UNDER THE SUPERVISION OF THE LAW."
Let us stop arguing on whether or not certain foods should be eaten, certain days/seasons be observed or whether women should or should not preach in the church.
This are recognized as disputable matters that only bring divisions.
In conclusion, Paul also addresses the fact that even though we are not under the supervision of the law, our level of faith differs.
Therefore, "Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters.One man's faith allows him to eat everything, but another man, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. The man who eats everything must not look down on him who does not, and the man who does not eat everything must not condemn the man who does, for God has accepted him." (Romans 14:1-3)
Fellow Christians, "GO INTO THE WORLD AND PREACH THE GOOD NEWS TO ALL CREATION, "
Stop wasting time and energy on arguments!
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
Scripture and the Christian Life
May 20, 2009
"The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether." (Psalm 19:7-9)
Most Christians spend little time in the Word of the Lord, and this is a great tragedy. It is the necessary food for health and joy in our spiritual lives. "The sincere milk of the word" (1 Peter 2:2) is for "newborn babes" and the "strong meat" is for those who are not "unskilful in the word of righteousness" (Hebrews 5:12-13). "Thy words" are also "honey to my mouth" (Psalm 119:103), and "every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord" is the very bread by which "doth man live" (Deuteronomy 8:3).
Not only are the Scriptures basic in salvation (2 Timothy 3:15; 1 Peter 1:23), but also in sanctification and cleansing day by day: "That He might sanctify and cleanse [the church] with the washing of water by the word" (Ephesians 5:26).
The Scriptures also provide daily guidance for those who will use their directions: "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path" (Psalm 119:105). Every Christian must be a seed-sowing witness for Christ, and "the seed is the word of God" (Luke 8:11). In the Christian’s armour, the sole offensive weapon is "the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God" (Ephesians 6:17), and this means a victorious life and testimony for the Christian who uses it.
The wonderful testimony of David in our text is the Old Testament equivalent of the great assertion by Paul in 2 Timothy 3:16: "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness." HMM
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
Systematic, expository study of God’s Word WORLD POWERS IN A GREAT, MIGHTY CONFLICTDaniel 8:1-14 Two years after the dream of chapter 7, Daniel had another vision which is recorded here in chapter 8. The revelation of chapter 7 gives us a broad outline or sketch of four great world empires, the Babylonian, Medo-Persian, Grecian and Roman empires. The vision of this chapter concentrates on the Medo-Persian and the Grecian empires. Nothing is here said about Babylon because that empire was about to end. In the original, the previous chapters (chapters 2 to 7) were written in the chaldean language but this chapter and the rest of the book of Daniel were written in Hebrew. God gave the vision to Daniel for the instruction and enlightenment of the Jews. They must have been wondering what would happen to them at the end of the Babylonian captivity. Would the Jews now have universal peace and prosperity? Would they now be free from domination from any world power? This vision is revealed that they might know what trials and tribulation were still before them. Knowing the facts of events which were soon to come would prepare them to seek the Lord and should draw us close to God as our only hope. The message of divinely inspired prophets in the Scripture is to strengthen us and prepare us for coming world events so that the day does not come upon us unawares. In the vision, Daniel found himself in Shushan, a chief city of the Medo-Persian empire, about 250 miles east of Babylon. As the vision passed before him he saw two great world empires represented by a ram with two horns and a male goat. The ram pictures the Medo-Persian empire while the goat represents Greece with its great horn standing for Alexander the Great. The ram at first was so powerful that nothing could oppose him. The he-goat became so strong that he conquered the ram. The interpretation of the vision has not been left to the wisdom of any natural or spiritual man. Angel Gabriel was sent to explain the vision to the prophet (Daniel 8:15-21). 1. THE UNDERESTIMATED POWER OF A SELF-WILLED KINGDaniel 8:1-4; 7:1,15,28; Isaiah 21:2-4; Jeremiah 49:34-39; Daniel 8:15,16,20; Isaiah 13:17-19; 45:1-5; Daniel 11:3,16,36. This vision appeared to Daniel after that which appeared to him “at the first”. The first vision was recorded in chapter 7. In this vision which he received before the reign of Cyrus, the Persian king, he saw himself “at Shushan in the palace”. Shushan later became the capital of Persia after the time of Cyrus, in which the kings of Persia had their principal residence. God gave Daniel a foresight of the destruction of Babylon and the establishment of the Medo-Persia. Knowing the changes that were to come his heart could rest on the unchanging God. Could we foresee the changes that shall be hereafter, when we are gone, we should less admire, and be less affected by the events of the present time. In the vision, Daniel saw “a ram which had two horns, and the two horns were high”. There can be no mistake in interpreting this picture or imagery of the ram, for in verse 20 it is expressly revealed that it represents the two kings of Media and Persia. The united power of the Medo-Persian kingdom was denoted by the ram itself. The two horns on the ram symbolize the fact that there were two powers or kingdoms combined in the empire. “But one was higher than the other and the higher came up last”. The higher horn springing up last denotes Persia which became the mightier power of the two. He saw the Medo-Persian kings “pushing westward, and northward, and southward”. On the west, the Medo-Persian army, coming from the east, conquered Babylonia, Mesopotamia, Syria and Asia Minor. On the north, they conquered Armenia, Iberia and the regions around the Caspian Sea. On the south, they overcame Palestine, Ethiopia, Egypt and Lybia. The ram became so powerful “that no beasts might stand before him, neither was there any that could deliver out of his hand.” The ram, though often grouped with weak animals became so formidable to seemingly more powerful beasts. Assuming himself to be so great “he did according to his will”. Assuming uncontrollable power he thought himself unconquerable but he soon came to his end (Daniel 8:5-7). 2. THE UNDISPUTABLE PROWESS OF A SAVAGE KINGDaniel 8:5-8,21; 10:20; 11:2-4; Deuteronomy 28:49,50; Isaiah 5:26-30; Ezekiel 28:7-10; Amos 2:14-16. This prophetic vision was still future for the Medo-Persian empire was not yet established “in the third year of the reign of king Belshazzar.” Now it is all history because the vision has been fulfilled in all its details. The ram that appeared unconquerable was eventually conquered. The Medo-Persian empire, represented by the two-horned ram, continued through many years until they were conquered by Alexander, the Grecian king. Alexander the Great was the son of Philip, the king of Macedonia. Alexander was a great warrior and he was known for his swiftness. Represented by the he-goat or the rough goat (Daniel 8:5,21), he came, he ran as if he “touched not the ground”. Indeed Alexander was “an he goat, a king against whom there is no rising up” (Proverbs 30:31). Though this prophecy of Daniel was unknown to Alexander, the goat was used as the emblem of the Grecian power. This he-goat had “a notable horn between his eyes”. Alexander had a great notable strength. He pushed his conquests on so fast and with so much fury, that no kingdom had the courage to resist him. In six years he made himself master of the greatest part of the then known world. “The he-goat waxed very great: and when he was strong, the great horn was broken.” “His kingdom shall be broken, and shall be divided toward the four winds of heaven” (Daniel 11:4). History shows us that this prophecy was fulfilled exactly as it had been written. Alexander was about twenty years old when he began his wars. When he was twenty-six he conquered Darius and became the ruler of the whole Persian empire; but when he was about thirty-three years of age, when he became strong and in his full strength, he died. He was not killed in war but he died suddenly as it was predicted. He left no child behind him to enjoy the benefits of what he had endlessly laboured for. After his death, the kingdom was divided among Alexander’s four captains. “The great horn was broken; and for it came up four notable ones, toward the four winds of heaven”. After some confusion and conflicts that arose there was a division of Alexander’s empire among four victorious warriors, Ptolemy, Seleucus, Cassander and Lysimachus. How wise is the man who heaps up riches without knowing who shall gather them or whose all those things shall be which he has laboured for? How wise is it for a man to work relentlessly, then die suddenly before enjoying the labour of his hands, only to go into eternity without any hope of rest? (Psalm 39:6; Luke 12:15-21; Mark 8:36,37). 3. THE UNDISGUISED PERVERSION OF A SACRILEGIOUS KINGDaniel 8:9-14; 7:20-26; 11:21,25-29,36; 9:27; Matthew 24:15; Isaiah 63:17-19; Luke 21:20-24; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-8. “And out of one of them came forth a little horn, which waxed exceeding great”. This little horn sprang up out of one of the four notable ones. From one of the four kingdoms into which the empire of Alexander would be divided, there would spring up this ambitious king. All the circumstances of the prediction find their fulfilment in Antiochus Epiphanes. This little horn became a great persecutor of God’s people. He set himself against “the pleasant land”, the land of Israel. “It cast down some of the host and the stars to the ground, and stamped upon them”. Antiochus, in fulfilment of this cast down and trampled on the people and the princes of the children of Israel. With indignation and contempt he persecuted the Jews. “He magnified himself even to the prince of the host”, that is, against the Ruler of the host of heaven. “And by him the daily sacrifice was taken away, and the place of his sanctuary was cast down.” History has left it on record that Antiochus destroyed Jerusalem, killed much people in Israel and laid the sanctuary waste like a wilderness. He polluted and defiled the temple, sacrificing unclean beasts on the altar. “And it cast down the truth to the ground”. The great enemy of God and of God’s people trampled upon the book of the law, the word of truth. The intention of the wicked, sacrilegious king was that true worship and divine truth might be forgotten. All this would be for a limited period because the notable horn would come to an ignoble end. “He shall also stand up against the Prince of princes; but he shall be broken without hand” (Daniel 8:25). The divine prediction of Antiochus’ death was fully accomplished, he died under the frightening judgment of God, without human instrumentality. His death was distressing and horrible. * * * * * * * Congregational Song: THE WAY OF THE CROSS LEADS HOME - I must needs go home by the way of the cross,
There’s no other way but this;
I shall ne’er get sight of the Gates of Light
If the way of the cross I miss.
The way of the cross leads home,
The way of the cross leads home,
It is sweet to know, as I onward go,
The way of the cross leads home. - I must needs go on in the blood-sprinkled way,
The path that the Saviour trod;
If I ever climb to the heights sublime,
Where the soul is at home with God.
- Then I bid farewell to the way of the world,
To walk in it never more;
For my Lord says “Come”, and I seek my home,
Where He waits at the open door.
For the free downloading of the audio and video message click on the link below and go into the "current Bible Study" hyperlink. http://www.dclm.org/Resources/ResourcesDirectory/tabid/130/Default.aspxhttp://www.dclm.org/Home/tabid/36/Default.aspx
|
|
|
|
|
|
jumoke 90 (f)
|
My Child . . . .
* You may not know me, but I know everything about you, Psalm 139:1
* I know when you sit down and when you rise up, Psalm 139:2
* I am familiar with all your ways, Psalm 139:3
* Even the very hairs on your head are numbered, Matthew 10:29-31
* For you were made in my image, Genesis 1:27
* In me you live and move and have your being, Acts 17:28
* For you are my offspring, Acts 17:28
* I knew you even before you were conceived, Jeremiah 1:4-5
* I chose you when I planned creation, Ephesians 1:11-12
* You were not a mistake, for all your days are written in my book, Psalm 139:15-16
* I determined the exact time of your birth and where you would live, Acts 17:26
* You are fearfully and wonderfully made, Psalm 139:14
* I knit you together in your mother's womb, Psalm 139:13
* And brought you forth on the day you were born, Psalm 71:6
* I have been misrepresented by those who don't know me, John 8:41-44
* I am not distant and angry, but am the complete expression of love, 1 John 4:16
* And it is my desire to lavish my love on you, 1 John 3:1
* Simply because you are my child and I am your father, 1 John 3:1
* I offer you more than your earthly father ever could, Matthew 7:11
* For I am the perfect father, Matthew 5:48
* Every good gift that you receive comes from my hand, James 1:17
* For I am your provider and I meet all your needs, Matthew 6:31-33
* My plan for your future has always been filled with hope, Jeremiah 29:11
* Because I love you with an everlasting love, Jeremiah 31:3
* My thoughts toward you are countless as the sand on the seashore, Psalm 139:17-18
* And I rejoice over you with singing, Zephaniah 3:17
* I will never stop doing good to you, Jeremiah 32:40
* For you are my treasured possession, Exodus 19:5
* I desire to establish you with all my heart and all my soul, Jeremiah 32:41
* And I want to show you great and marvelous things, Jeremiah 33:3
* If you seek me with all your heart, you will find me, Deuteronomy 4:29
* Delight in me and I will give you the desires of your heart, Psalm 37:4
* For it is I who gave you those desires, Philippians 2:13
* I am able to do more for you than you could possibly imagine, Ephesians 3:20
* For I am your greatest encourager, 2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
* I am also the Father who comforts you in all your troubles, 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
* When you are brokenhearted, I am close to you, Psalm 34:18
* As a shepherd carries a lamb, I have carried you close to my heart, Isaiah 40:11
* One day I will wipe away every tear from your eyes, Revelation 21:3-4
* And I'll take away all the pain you have suffered on this earth, Revelation 21:3-4
* I am your Father, and I love you even as I love my son, Jesus, John 17:23
* For in Jesus, my love for you is revealed, John 17:26
* He is the exact representation of my being, Hebrews 1:3
* He came to demonstrate that I am for you, not against you, Romans 8:31
* And to tell you that I am not counting your sins, 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
* Jesus died so that you and I could be reconciled, 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
* His death was the ultimate expression of my love for you, 1 John 4:10
* I gave up everything I loved that I might gain your love, Romans 8:31-32
* If you receive the gift of my son Jesus, you receive me, 1 John 2:23
* And nothing will ever separate you from my love again, Romans 8:38-39
* Come home and I'll throw the biggest party heaven has ever seen, Luke 15:7
* I have always been Father, and will always be Father, Ephesians 3:14-15
* My question is, Will you be my child?, John 1:12-13
* I am waiting for you, Luke 15:11-32
Love,
Your father - God!
good morning world!!!
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
This Work Was of God
May 21, 2009
"So the wall was finished. . . . And it came to pass, that when all our enemies heard thereof, and all the heathen that were about us saw these things, they were much cast down in their own eyes: for they perceived that this work was wrought of our God." (Nehemiah 6:15-16)
There have been so many occasions throughout history when God worked mightily, either to establish or to preserve America; there can be no doubt that God has uniquely blessed this country. There have always been those who would destroy, establish themselves as dictators, or who have scoffed at or hindered the American experiment in freedom, but in His grace and in His time and way, He has responded with victory.
Similarly, there were many times in the history of God's chosen nation of Israel when mighty victories were accomplished. In the events surrounding our text, a ragged band of exiles had returned from captivity in Babylon and were attempting to rebuild the broken-down walls of Jerusalem. The detractors were many, saying it couldn't be done--but it had to be done!
Satanically inspired opposition came through ridicule (Nehemiah 2:19; 4:1-3); threats of invasion (vv. 7-9); discouragement (v. 10); fear of attack (vv. 11-23); internal friction (5:1-5); diplomatic treachery (6:1-8); and lying prophets (6:10-14). But in the face of each threat, Nehemiah was equal to the task. "We made our prayer unto our God, and set a watch against them day and night" (4:9), and eventually, as we read in our text, "the wall was finished."
Nehemiah's victory was preceded by his confession of his own sins and that of the people (1:6-11), and the purification and dedication of the people. It was followed by great rejoicing and blessing. Would that America's present leaders and people would follow this godly example. JDM
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
Ready and Able
May 22, 2009
"That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." (2 Timothy 3:17)
The word "perfect" in this verse is artios, and it is used only this one time in the Bible. Its basic meaning seems to be "fitted," or "fresh." Then, the words "thoroughly furnished" are one word, exartizo, in the original, which--interestingly enough--is essentially this same rare word (artios) with the prefix ex (meaning "out of") added. It is only used one other time where it is translated "accomplished" (Acts 21:5).
Putting these concepts together, Paul seems to be saying that the "man of God" is not necessarily a man who is sinlessly perfect, but one who is both fresh (ready to meet present needs) and fully equipped (able to meet present needs).
And, of course, it is significant that this splendid testimony to what a man of God can be--and should be--follows immediately upon Paul's grand testimony to the inspiration and power of the Holy Scriptures. The Scriptures, first of all, "are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus" (2 Timothy 3:15). Then, they are "profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness" (v. 16).
"Doctrine," more specifically, is teaching. "Reproof" is evidence or conviction. "Correction" is a word used only this one time, and it means setting straight. "Instruction" is chastening. Then, the end result of the perfect teachings, the convicting evidences, the correcting influences, and the chastening cleansing of the Holy Scriptures is to produce men and women of God who are both ready and able to meet the critical needs of the times in which they live.
By the same token, the large numbers of nominal Christians who do not diligently study, obey, and apply the Holy Scriptures in their lives are not either ready or able to face the awful challenges (vv. 1-14) of these last days. HMM
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
Beware of False Teachers
May 23, 2009
"Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness." (2 Peter 3:17)
Peter's final epistle, especially chapters 2 and 3, is the classic New Testament passage on the false teachers that would plague the church in the "last days" (v. 3). In addition to the characteristics listed in the introductory verse, 2:1 (e.g., slipping in surreptitiously heretical teachings, denying the redemptive work and Lordship of Christ), a number of their attributes are predicted for our guidance, as follows:
They will "wrest the scriptures" (3:16), distorting their literal meaning to conform to their own philosophical preferences. This will involve using "feigned words" (2:3)--that is, plastic words, words with devious meanings to make them say what their users wish to convey. They may well be very eloquent and seductive in their speech, "when they speak great swelling words of vanity" (2:18).
They will deny the doctrine of special creation and the judgment of the worldwide Flood (3:5-6), teaching instead that "all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation" (v. 4), and will scoff at the Second Coming. They "despise government" and are "presumptuous" and "selfwilled . . . not afraid to speak evil of dignities" (2:10).
They both practice and defend immoral acts, "having eyes full of adultery" (v. 14). Yet they maintain their religious ties because they have hearts "exercised with covetous practices" (v. 14), seeing nothing evil in taking money for personal gain from those whose faith they seek to undermine.
This is, indeed, a fitting description of many modern liberal theologians, religious bureaucrats in the big denominations, "New Age" preachers, college teachers of religion, etc. Although this is not a pleasant subject, Christians urgently need to awaken to what is happening, and "beware"! HMM
|
|
|
|
|
|
JJYOU
|
Sin City Goes Wild … With Baptisms Ministry News When 1,200-plus people are baptized after a worship service, it's amazing. But when that occurs in Sin City, USA, it's something worth reporting. That's exactly what happened at Central Christian Church in Las Vegas two weekends ago when a planned baptism following weekend services at the church's three campuses turned into an unexpected move of God. According to Central Christian's Web site, church leadership hoped to see at least 500 of the church's 15,000 regular attendees baptized. Instead, an open invitation—both for salvation and baptism—at the end of each service resulted in more than 1,200 people coming forward. "Nothing in the past 15 years of ministry prepared me for what I witnessed," senior pastor Jud Wilhite said. "I still don’t have words to adequately describe it. All I can say is, 'Only God.'" Because Central Christian allows any baptized believer to baptize another, the scene turned into a mass celebration with teenagers baptizing their parents and grandparents baptizing their grandchildren. "I watched college students, CEO’s, soccer moms, bikers, models, entrepreneurs and every other kind of person you could imagine climb into cold water in their street clothes with no regard for themselves, for their clothes, or for their appearance—only Jesus," Wilhite said. "I stood by a thirty-something guy decked out in $1,000 clothes who couldn't care less about them; he just wanted Jesus." Though he's watched more than 2,500 people accept Jesus into their lives in the past five months at Central Christian, Wilhite said there was nothing unusual in his sermon delivery two weekends ago. Rather than deliver an over-the-top emotional plea, he simply concluded by asking those who had never been baptized if they wanted to make a public confession of faith. "I haven’t been able to fully process it," the 38-year-old pastor said. "I doubt I ever will. What I do know is that this was not about great programming, but about our great God who chose to move in people’s lives in a tremendous way, in one of the world’s least likely cities. … We are boasting about the Lord today and so thankful that we could witnesses His move." For highlights of this amazing weekend in Vegas, check out the video below. [press release, 5/15/09] http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bVmrDlpoSw8
|
|
|
|
|
|
JJYOU
|
Systematic, expository study of God’s Word THE WAY OF THE CROSS LEADS HOME - I must needs go home by the way of the cross,
There’s no other way but this;
I shall ne’er get sight of the Gates of Light
If the way of the cross I miss.
The way of the cross leads home,
The way of the cross leads home,
It is sweet to know, as I onward go,
The way of the cross leads home. - I must needs go on in the blood-sprinkled way,
The path that the Saviour trod;
If I ever climb to the heights sublime,
Where the soul is at home with God.[/li]
[li]Then I bid farewell to the way of the world,
To walk in it never more;
For my Lord says “Come”, and I seek my home,
Where He waits at the open door. For the free downloading of the audio and video message click on the link below and go into the "current Bible Study" hyperlink. http://www.dclm.org/Resources/ResourcesDirectory/tabid/130/Default.aspxhttp://www.dclm.org/Home/tabid/36/Default.aspx beautiful song. thanks for sharing. the way of the cross of Jesus Chruist surely leads home God bless you |
|
|
|
|
|
JJYOU
|
His strength in my weakness "He said to me, "'My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.' "Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ’s sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong." 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 Our weakness "For though He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by the power of God. For we also are weak in Him, but we shall live with Him by the power of God toward you." 2 Corinthians 13:4 "Whom have I in heaven but You? And there is none upon earth that I desire besides You. My flesh and my heart fail; But God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever." Psalm 73:25-26 ", we were burdened beyond measure, above strength, so that we despaired even of life. Yes, we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves but in God, " 2 Corinthians 1:8-9 ", not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence. But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption—that, as it is written, 'He who glories, let him glory in the Lord.'" 1 Corinthians 1:26-31 "I, brethren, when I came to you, did not come with excellence of speech or of wisdom declaring to you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. I was with you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not be in the wisdom of men but in the power of God." 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 His strength in us "Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30 "Blessed is the man whose strength is in You, Whose heart is set on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca [weeping], They make it a spring; The rain also covers it with pools. They go from strength to strength; Each one appears before God in Zion." Psalm 84:5-7 "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 "As your days, so shall your strength be." Deuteronomy 33:25 "And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever." Philippians 4:19-20 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 5:3 "The everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, neither faints nor is weary. His understanding is unsearchable. He gives power to the weak, and to those who have no might He increases strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall, But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, They shall walk and not faint." Isaiah 40:28-31 “Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.” Deuteronomy 31:6 Therefore we honor God, not ourselves "I will love You, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised; So shall I be saved from my enemies." Psalm 18:1-3 ", we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed— always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh." 2 Corinthians 4:7-11 "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ." 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 The victory is God's, not ours ", in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." Romans 8:37-39 "Seeing then that we have a great High Priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession. For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:14-16 "Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen." Ephesians 3:20-21 http://www.crossroad.to/HisWord/verses/topics/strength.htm
|
|
|
|
|
|
OLAADEGBU (m)
|
Jesus and Jonah
May 24, 2009
"Now the LORD had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights." (Jonah 1:17)
The Bible's most famous "fish story" has been the target of skeptics for hundreds of years, but it was confirmed by none other than the one who Himself had prepared the great fish: "For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and nights in the heart of the earth" (Matthew 12:40).
Jonah may actually have died and gone to "hell." "Out of the belly of hell |Hebrew Sheol| cried I," said Jonah, "and thou heardest my voice" (Jonah 2:2). The testimony of Jesus was similar: "Thou wilt not leave my soul in hell |i.e., Sheol|; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption" (Psalm 16:10; also Acts 2:27). Jonah also prayed: "yet hast thou brought up my life from corruption, O LORD my God" (Jonah 2:6). His prayer ended: "Salvation is of the LORD" (v. 9), and this is the very meaning of the name "Jesus."
Thus, 900 years before Christ died and rose again, Jonah died and rose again, a remarkable prophetic type of the mighty miracle that the Lord would accomplish one day to bring salvation and life to a world dead in sin. Only the power of God could direct a prepared fish to save Jonah, then three days later allow him to preach repentance and salvation to the lost souls in Nineveh. Then, finally God Himself, in Christ, died on a cross for the sins of the world, and this time it took the infinite power that created the very universe itself to bring His own soul back from hell and, three days later, to rise again. This is "the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power, Which He wrought in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead" (Ephesians 1:19-20). Truly, "a greater than Jonas is here" (Matthew 12:41). HMM
|
|
|
|
|
|
JJYOU
|
[b ]THE TEST OF SELF-INTEREST [/b] this is very interesting old but relevant. "If thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if thou depart to the right hand, then I will go to the left." Genesis 13:9 As soon as you begin to live the life of faith in God, fascinating and luxurious prospects will open up before you, and these things are yours by right; but if you are living the life of faith you will exercise your right to waive your rights, and let God choose for you. God sometimes allows you to get into a place of testing where your own welfare would be the right and proper thing to consider if you were not living a life of faith; but if you are, you will joyfully waive your right and leave God to choose for you. This is the discipline by means of which the natural is transformed into the spiritual by obedience to the voice of God. Whenever right is made the guidance in the life, it will blunt the spiritual insight. The great enemy of the life of faith in God is not sin, but the good which is not good enough. The good is always the enemy of the best. It would seem the wisest thing in the world for Abraham to choose, it was his right, and the people around would consider him a fool for not choosing. Many of us do not go on spiritually because we prefer to choose what is right instead of relying on God to choose for us. We have to learn to walk according to the standard which has its eye on God. "Walk before Me." http://www.myutmost.org/05/0525.html |
|
|
|
|
|
JJYOU
|
The Arlington LadiesREAD: Matthew 26:6-13 What this woman has done will also be told as a memorial to her. —Matthew 26:13In 1948, the US Air Force Chief of Staff noticed that no one attended the funeral of an airman at Arlington National Cemetery, and that deeply disturbed him. He talked with his wife about his concern that each soldier be honored at burial, and she began a group called the Arlington Ladies. Someone from the group honors each deceased soldier by attending his or her funeral. The ladies also write personal notes of sympathy and speak words of gratitude to family members when they are present. If possible, a representative keeps in contact with the family for months afterward. Margaret Mensch, an Arlington Lady, says, “The important thing is to be there for the families. . . . It’s an honor to . . . pay tribute to the everyday heroes that make up the armed forces.” Jesus showed the importance of paying tribute. After a woman poured a costly, fragrant oil on His head, He said that she would be honored for years to come (Matt. 26:13). The disciples were indignant and thought her act was wasteful, but Jesus called it “a good work” (v.10) for which she would be remembered. We know heroes who have given their lives in service to God and their country. Let’s honor them today. — Anne Cetas Lord, help us to appreciate The work that others do, The service given from their hearts, Their sacrifice for You. —Sper We honor God when we honor one another.http://www.rbc.org/devotionals/our-daily-bread/2009/05/25/devotion.aspx
|
|
|
|
|
|
![Nairaland [Nigerian Forum] Home](http://www.nairaland.com/Themes/default/images/english/home.gif)
Author
8456xo.jpg (67.04 KB, 450x450 )
