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He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,
Titus 3:5
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
Ephesians 2:8-9
A Complete Restoration
"He died for everyone so that those who receive His new life will no longer live for themselves. Instead, they will live for Christ, who died and was raised for them ... This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!" ~ 2 Corinthians 5:15,17
God loves to remodel. God has to remodel. Let Him live in your heart long enough, and your heart will begin to change. Portraits of hurt will be replaced by landscapes of grace. Walls of anger will be demolished and shaky foundations restored. God can no more leave a life unchanged than a mother can leave her child's tear untouched.
This might explain some of the discomfort in your life. Remodeling of the heart is not always pleasant. We don't object when the Carpenter adds a few shelves, but He's been known to gut the entire west wing. He has such high aspirations for you.
God envisions a complete restoration. He won't stop until he is finished.
He wants you to be "Just like Jesus."
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~ by Max Lucado
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Patience and Paradox
"I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world.” ~ John 16:33
As we search for a true perspective, patience is a necessity. Jesus tells us to expect a paradox: He has overcome the world, yet we will have trouble. That means there is a time lag between where we are today and where we desire to be. We are standing in line, just not quite at the front counter yet.
In this world, we cannot eliminate the need for waiting. But we do not have to get to the front counter to discover truth. Pain and confusion, challenging circumstances and fleeting seasons are an inevitable part of the wait. Truth is not the elimination of these difficulties. Truth is found through a right perspective surrounding these things. It is the paradox of the Kingdom of God.
Part of gaining a true perspective is seeing waiting as a privilege. We believe the front counter is coming. But we also need to see that waiting in line is our once-in-an-existence opportunity to exercise the resurrection power of Jesus by a walk of faith.
Jesus has overcome the world by shining within it. He shines in many ways, but He desires to shine through us. Patience and faithfulness in difficulty allows His truth to peer through the inevitable troubles of life. The paradox of his kingdom is not only true, but an incredible gift.
________________
~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net/devotional/patience-and-paradox/
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Shining Light in Our Circle of Influence
~ Is there someone you can serve and encourage today?
Scripture Reading: John 8:12; 12:35-36
Jesus, the Light of the World, told us — His followers — to be light as well. We are to shine so that people will be drawn to the One who dwells within us.
Light shines most effectively when it’s not hidden. As Christians, we should be transparent about our faith and dependence on the Lord. Who we are in private must match who we are in public. Eliminating sinful habits and practices will brighten our testimony for Jesus. Light reveals what’s in the darkness as well as what is missing. The Holy Spirit will use our actions to shine truth into others’ lives and reveal their need for the Savior.
Light also serves to guide and to warn. As we obey the Lord’s leading, we will be able to help others understand who God is and how much He loves them. We also can function as lanterns to warn people of the dangers along their path. Finally, our interactions are to bring warmth through an encouraging attitude and servant-like actions.
In order to have a strong impact, we must reflect the light of God’s Son. Growing in Christlikeness is the key. Become intentional about shining your light wherever you are — especially in your home, workplace, and community.
________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/shining-light-in-our-circle-of-influence
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Facing Life’s Unknowns
~ When we know and trust the Lord, we don't have to fear change and uncertainty.
Scripture Reading: Hebrews 11:23-29
Moses knew what it was to live with uncertainty. He was born in Egypt at a time when the growing Hebrew population was seen as a threat. So to protect Moses, his family let others raise him. But then, as an adult, he had to flee his homeland.
Later, in a personal encounter with the Lord, Moses learned that he was God’s choice to be the Israelites’ leader. In this new role — one for which he felt woefully ill-equipped — he had to stand before Pharaoh and demand his people’s release. And as if that weren’t enough, he had to lead more than a million slaves — each of them depending on him — to the Promised Land.
Yet Moses steadfastly carried on. Scripture tells us he was able to persevere because of faith, which Hebrews 11:1 defines as “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see”. Moses had learned how to see “Him who is unseen” (Hebrews 11:27). As a result, he was able to grasp the reality of the Lord’s character and promises. After encountering the Lord at the burning bush (Exodus 3:2), he understood his purpose was to rely on God and follow His plan.
Though Moses wasn’t perfect, the Scriptures commend him for walking by faith. From his example, we can learn how to persevere through life’s unknowns with the help of the Holy Spirit.
______________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/facing-life-s-unknowns
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Each and everyday that we live...no matter how happy we may feel in the present and how well things are going in our life at the moment. There are always two days...if we allow them...that can steal our happiness and put that black cloud back over our heads in this day that we are living. One is tomorrow and the other is yesterday. Both are days that we as Christians should refuse to live as we focus on the here and now...that be today! There are so many folks that never learn to separate themselves from yesterday. They continue to drag it around with them and in the process it steals their happiness and peace of this present day. The same with tomorrow. So many folks also have a bad habit of worrying about this...that and the other...that may or may not happen tomorrow and in the process they also rob themselves of the contentment that they could have had this present day! The thing about yesterday...its already happened..we cant do nothing to change it. And tomorrow...have you ever noticed how much is worried about that actually never happens and the things that do happen did the worry really help anything? Worry...regret and dread seems to consume so many people and when we allow that in our life we basically have put our faith in the back seat for the long haul. Please remember my friends...God is sovereign...God is in complete control...God never takes a day off and God will never leave or forsake us. And...His loving tender mercy is new every morning! So...give it all to God and see what happens. Dont let yesterday and tomorrow contaminate your today. Learn to live in the here and now. Embrace the joy and peace and contentment that Jesus can provide...when...we put our faith and trust in Him! Think about it!
I Have No Regrets About My Past...My Past Is Who I Am Today...Born Again!
Rick j Sane
And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:19
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
Romans 15:13
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
Come to me, all 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
“Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Matthew 6:34
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid
John 14:27
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:6-7
God Has the Final Say on Our Future
~ Every day can be a new beginning with Christ; His mercy is always available.
Scripture Reading: Joshua 2:8-14
Rahab, a prostitute in the enemy nation of Jericho, had faith that the Lord would rescue her family from the Israelites’ impending attack. We aren’t told why she chose to protect the men of Israel and trust God — perhaps Rahab herself didn’t even know why she risked defying the king on behalf of two strangers.
What we do know is this: On trusting in God’s protection, Rahab became grafted into the story of His people. The Lord didn’t count Rahab’s sin against her, but instead spared the woman’s entire family — and redeemed her history.
Ultimately, Rahab chose God’s way over her own culture and livelihood, at the risk of her own life. When her city and its walls fell to the ground, she joined the family of Israel and was given a new home. Faith changed the trajectory of her life, and she’s listed as one of the women in Jesus’ lineage.
Similarly, faith in God invites renewal and change in our own life. It’s not our sin that the Lord ultimately considers, but our faith. Rahab’s story reminds us that we don’t have to be perfect for God to use us. No matter what we have done, He can reweave our broken past into a future filled with grace.
_______________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/god-has-the-final-say-on-our-future
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A Life-Changing Prayer
~ In God’s Word, we can learn a lot about how to intercede for our loved ones.
Scripture Reading: Colossians 1:9-12
There are times when we may wonder whether our prayers are really accomplishing anything — when no matter how passionately we pray, the Lord seems unmoved and nothing changes. However, we need to persevere and trust Him to act with His perfect wisdom and timing. James 5:16 says, “The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.” Therefore, our goal should be to learn to pray effectively.
Colossians 1:9-12 is an example of just such a prayer. The apostle Paul is asking that the believers in Colossae be filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. We, too, must learn what Scripture has revealed about the Lord’s desires for our life so we can obey His will in the following ways:
• Live in a manner worthy of the Lord so we’ll please Him.
• Bear fruit in every good work.
• Increase in the knowledge of God.
• Be strengthened with His glorious power to attain steadfastness of faith.
If you want to see your prayers become effective and life-changing, pray these verses for yourself and fellow believers. Then be patient and wait for God’s will to come to fruition.
_______________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/a-life-changing-prayer-2
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God Delights in You
“He led me to a place of safety; He rescued me because He delights in me.” ~ Psalm 18:19
I was blessed to grow up with parents who were positive, supportive, and encouraging. The words “I am proud of you” are one of their greatest legacies to me. I knew they loved me and showed it in a variety of very important ways. I knew they were very glad that I was their son.
If you did not grow up with that kind of advantage then the concepts of grace and unconditional love will be harder for you to accept. One of the reasons we send Biblical messages of encouragement is to help you hear God’s words and to help you trust in His boundless, joyful love and draw closer to Him. Psalm 18:19 is one such verse.
David wrote this psalm after escaping repeated attacks from Saul and his armies. A man who could have been a mentor and encourager for David became an implacable enemy. Other Psalms reflect David’s anguish during this very rough period in his life. David responded by seeking God even more and looking to Him for the support. God delivered Him.
The key phrase I want you to focus on concerns the reason God delivered David: “because He delights in me.” This phrase is joyful and exuberant! God delighted in David!
And God delights in you. Let that sink in. "He delights in you!" Even though you may not have been programmed from your childhood to hear and accept such truth, or perhaps because you have suffered rejection in adulthood at the hands of people who were once very close to you, you must trust and believe that God delights in you. He knows you deeply and individually as if you were the only person to know. He is capable of that kind of sustained regard and focus on you. His verdict: “I take delight in you.” And for that reason He will deliver you.
So whatever you face, or whatever handicap you have in life, accept God’s rich love for you.
Trust in it. Rely on it.
_____________
~ published by: The Daily Encourager
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The Riches of The Kingdom
"I counsel you to buy from Me gold that has been heated red hot and refined by fire so that you may become truly rich; and white clothes [representing righteousness] to clothe yourself so that the shame of your nakedness will not be seen; and healing salve to put on your eyes so that you may see." ~ Revelation 3:18
Humans are motivated by the pursuit of riches. We are drawn to concepts like value and worth. In a broken and imperfect world, these pursuits most often manifest in superficial ways. But we are unsatisfied by the wealth the world has to offer. Unfulfilled by the desires of the flesh. Our longing remains.
The Lord invites us to purchase from Him all the riches we want. God is not talking about money and possessions for self-serving purposes. He is talking about peace and wisdom so that we might worship Him through stewarding this precious life.
We are searching for the depth of treasure, the heart of true richness. Material wealth is only a means to an end. Instinctively, we know there is a greater end than material. And we hope money will help serve as a means to that end.
Through wealth or poverty, the true riches lie in how we live the life given us. How we see the world around us. If we ask God, He will grant us all the richness of His Kingdom. He will gift us with the opportunity to see the world from His perspective, which will transform the way we see all other things.
There is no greater treasure than wisdom. There is no fortune worth more than a true perspective. If we ask, He is there, ready to endow upon us the wealth of the Heavens, the transformational riches of true perspective.
_______________
~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net
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Freedom’s Paradox
"A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls." ~ Proverbs 25:28
One of life’s paradoxes is how self-discipline gives us freedom. People without self-control live under the tyranny of whatever desires master them — pleasure, sleep, sex, indulgence, addictions, or hatred. When the Lord becomes the King of our life, He enables us to grow in the quality of self-control. It’s a fruit of the Spirit. As we’re released from our vices, we’re increasingly free to live healthy and happy lives.
To many people, the word freedom means doing anything you want whenever and wherever you want. But true freedom is impossible without constraint. Limitations don’t bring confinement — they enable freedom. Paul told Timothy, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.” (2 Timothy 1:7). Galatians 5:22-23 says, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace…self-control.”
Identify any area of life in which you find yourself in bondage. Ask God to help you to allow His Spirit to work in your heart so that you will experience true freedom.
"Jesus, who lived such a remarkable life, has sent His Spirit to dwell in you. His goal is to reproduce Himself through you — the courage, the self-control, the love, everything." ~ Charles Stanley
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~ by David Jeremiah, Turning Point Ministries (https://www.davidjeremiah.org)
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A Beautiful Simplicity
~ Our giving should reflect the generosity and grace of our Lord.
Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 8:1-15
Today we return to Romans 12:8 to explore the next spiritual gift — generosity. As before, Paul’s directive is concise: “The one who gives” should do so “with generosity.” Our English translation may not seem to offer much guidance, but the Greek contains a beautiful visual we’d do well to examine.
The word Paul uses for “gives” is "metadidómi", and it means precisely what we think it should — “to share, bestow, or give a share of.” But he tells us we should give “with generosity.” In some translations, “liberality” or “generously” is used, but that doesn’t quite get at the heart of what he’s trying to say. The Greek word is "haplotés". We translate it as “simplicity, sincerity, purity, or graciousness,” but it literally means “not folded” or “not compounded or needlessly complex.” Imagine a bedsheet hanging on a laundry line — its wide, flat expanse drying in the afternoon sun is "haplotés". Compare that to a fitted sheet, which is all seams, puckers, and corners and utterly impossible to fold neatly.
Paul is saying that our giving should be straightforward, not tied up in some complicated system of rules or justifications. We shouldn’t put elaborate stipulations on our generosity or run down a strict checklist to see if someone is “worthy.” Rather, we should simply give of what we have as the Holy Spirit leads.
______________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/a-beautiful-simplicity
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God created each of us...yes...every single human...with the desire that we would all come to know Him thru His Son Jesus. God loves all of us so deeply that we really cant understand the true and unconditional love He has for us...He is our heavenly Father. However...to truly obtain and experience that love...we must become born-again by asking Jesus for forgiveness of our sins and surrendering our lives to Him. Once we have done that...we start a process for the rest of our lives to become more and more like Jesus. We will never be perfect like Jesus while we are on this earth but our daily goal is to work towards that end result which will happen when we get to heaven. God loves us and truly does want the very best for us. However...as we know...we often dont and cant understand why so many things come into our lives that seem just the opposite. We must search ourselves and come to the conclusion that yes...Gods plan and purpose for our life is perfect. Whatever we are confronted with God has sent our way...or He has allowed...and yes given satan permission to throw something at us...and that dont mean that we are doing anything wrong although God does send correction and discipline our way...all in all...its to better us and mold us into the likeness of Jesus! Yes i know...sometimes that can mean some pretty hard and tragic life experiences but here is a thought for us to ponder. When the earthly path we are traveling becomes rough...filled with ruts and pot holes. And when we think we can endure no more....the solution to our problems and burdens is often really very simple and it has to do with a mindset of letting go of self. When we learn to forget about me and my way and focus on God and His way...if nothing else changes you can bet our attitude will. Me is good at having a negative attitude while God will bless us with a positive attitude....Me will grasp a hold of self pity and depression and God will deliver comfort and peace! Me tries to fix things seeing only one second at a time so frustration sets in...God will guide our steps seeing every day of our lives knowing what the big picture truly looks like and will provide peace by trusting in Him. So...let us always keep in mind that Gods ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts. Only by keeping our complete faith and trust in the very person that created us knowing that whatever we are going thru is another chance to glorify God...will we be able to accept our circumstances and give God the praise for it all no matter how hard the road of life may become to travel. Remember....Jesus never said that life in these human bodies would be easy...but He did say that thru a relationship with Him...it will be all so worth it! Trust Him!
I Have No Regrets About My Past...My Past Is Who I Am Today...Born Again!
Rick j Sane
And the Lord will guide you continually and satisfy your desire in scorched places and make your bones strong; and you shall be like a watered garden, like a spring of water, whose waters do not fail.
Isaiah 58:11
The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps.
Proverbs 16:9
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
Jeremiah 29:11
Are Americans Eating Spiritual Pufferfish?
What do these stories have in common?
• A man cooked and ate a poisonous pufferfish that had been given to him, fell into a coma, and died thirty-five days later.
• A nineteen-year-old hiker was taking photos at a scenic overlook in Utah when the cliff he was standing on crumbled beneath him and he plunged to his death.
• A thirty-four-year-old man in Colorado was bitten by a Gila monster he kept as a pet and died four days later.
• A man in India jumped into a zoo enclosure to take a selfie with a lion who then mauled him to death.
Obviously, none of them knew their decisions would lead to their deaths.
However, can someone who is sincere be sincerely wrong? Can a nation?
“Is it true that man is above everything?”
I came across an article this week highlighting Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn’s 1978 commencement address at Harvard University. When I reread the exiled dissident’s words, I knew I needed to share some of them with you today.
How well do they describe America’s culture forty-six years later?
Solzhenitsyn warned:
"The fight for our planet, physical and spiritual, a fight of cosmic proportions, is not a vague matter of the future; it has already started. The forces of Evil have begun their decisive offensive. You can feel their pressure, yet your screens and publications are full of prescribed smiles and raised glasses. What is the joy about?"
He diagnosed the root of the problem:
"We have lost the concept of a Supreme Complete Entity which used to restrain our passions and our irresponsibility. We have placed too much hope in politics and social reforms, only to find out that we were being deprived of our most precious possession: our spiritual life."
Then he prescribed the solution:
"Since [man’s] body is doomed to death, his task on earth evidently must be more spiritual: not a total engrossment in everyday life, not the search for the best ways to obtain material goods and then their carefree consumption. It has to be the fulfillment of a permanent, earnest duty so that one’s life journey may become above all an experience of moral growth. . . ."
"Only by the voluntary nurturing in ourselves of freely accepted and serene self-restraint can mankind rise above the world stream of materialism."
Solzhenitsyn concluded:
"Even if we are spared destruction by war, life will have to change in order not to perish on its own. We cannot avoid reassessing the fundamental definitions of human life and human society."
• "Is it true that man is above everything?"
• "Is there no Superior Being above him?"
• "Is it right that man’s life and society’s activities should be ruled by material expansion above all?"
• "Is it permissible to promote such expansion to the detriment of our integral spiritual life?"
In his view, “We shall have to rise to a new height of vision, to a new level of life. . . . This ascension is similar to climbing onto the next anthropological stage. No one on earth has any other way left but — upward.”
The wisest course of action:
Would you allow me to ask you some hard questions I’m asking myself this morning?
• Have you “placed too much hope in politics and social reforms”?
• Is your life focused on “the search for the best ways to obtain material goods and then their carefree consumption”?
• Is your life “ruled by material expansion above all”?
When we are going in the wrong direction, the wisest course of action is to reverse course. This is why Jesus began His public ministry by calling on those who heard Him to “repent,” to make a spiritual U-turn from their sins to their Savior (Mark 1:15).
This is our Father’s urgent call to us still today. If you are hearing a voice assuring you that this call is not for you, you’re being deceived by the “father of lies” (John 8:44).
St. Augustine was right:
“God has promised forgiveness to your repentance, but He has not promised tomorrow to your procrastination.”
Your Father has a “new level of life” waiting for any who make Him their unconditional King and Lord (John 10:10). This is the “next anthropological stage” for humanity.
Let’s choose it together, to the glory of God.
______________
~ published by: Denison Ministries
https://www.denisonforum.org/daily-article/are-americans-eating-spiritual-pufferfish/
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The Believer’s Impact
~ Ask God to help you make your days count for eternity.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 28:19-20
The Lord has given us talents and abilities so that we can serve Him and make a difference in our circle of influence, no matter its size.
To maximize our impact, we must develop a lifestyle of prayer, because talking to God is essential for effective ministry. Conversation with Him prepares our mind for communicating to others — the simplest words can have amazing results when He directs. And the Lord has also promised to respond to our requests according to His perfect will.
Our Father wants us to use our spiritual gifts to bless others. So let’s keep in mind that acts of service can speak clearly of His love and compassion. As we become salt and light, God will expand our sphere of influence beyond what we could imagine.
Suggested Prayer:
“Lord, I give You control over my life so You can affect others through my words and actions. Make my days count for eternity however You choose — do not let me waste them. Live Your life through me in such a way that many recognize their need for You. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
_______________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/the-believer-s-impact
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What He Prayed
The fact that Jesus took time to pray for His followers shortly before He went to the cross is humbling and astonishing. Now consider what He prayed from John 17:
• He prayed for His followers to have joy. (vv 6-13)
• He prayed for His followers to be protected from the evil one. (vv 14-16)
• He prayed for His followers to be made holy. (vv 17-10)
• He prayed for His followers to know unity. (vv 20-26)
But notice this, the first thing He prayed for was His followers "to know Him":
"Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent." ~ John 17:3
He wanted those who were and would become His followers to experience Him completely, not just know "about Him". Not just memorize His words and stories so you can repeat them and sound like You know Him.
Knowing someone is dramatically different from knowing about them. Jesus wants His followers to know Him so that we can help others know Him.
He prayed for His followers to know Him. This is eternal life.
Is there anything more important?
_______________
~ by Tom Norvell, A Norvell Note © Copyright 2024 (https://www.anorvellnote.net)
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Now i dont know that one thing has anything to do with another...but just to make a point...in my 25 years of helter skelter living with drugs and booze...and especially those last 10 or so years....i didnt give a hoot about much of nothing. I lived the life of booze and drugs and all the craziness and madness that goes with it in pretty much self destruct mode... and... I didnt much care if i lived or died and didnt really much care if anyone else did. In many ways i was filled with hate...anger and im thinking that forgiveness wasnt in my vocabulary? Now dont get me wrong...i was not a Charlie Manson type...though i did have a good many loose screws...i was in some ways a good person?...a friend to some folks?...there was a few folks that im pretty sure i loved?...and that might sound like im contradicting myself...but....to anyone that has been there done that in living that life and the insanity and darkness that surrounds you day by day with satan showing you the way...you get my meaning...there is a method to the madness in ones head! Then at age 40 Jesus finally got thru my thick skull and hard heart and i changed...big time! I was born-again and made a new creation by the power of the Holy Spirit...God Himself...who came to live in me! So with all that said...today...and with this scripture in mind that i take as very serious business....."but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses"...Matthew 6:15...Now...for me...and this doesnt happen very often...when someone says or does something in a hurtful way...it truly takes me about 10 minutes to put it behind me...let it go...and continue on with the peace...joy...contentment that i have each and everyday thru the Lord Jesus Christ...almost like water off a ducks back....all by the power of the Holy Spirit...God Himself...who came to live in me! That is as far as the east is from the west as to the person i use to be. And when something happens that hurts my little feelings...right then and there i just tell my heavenly Father that i forgive them...because...no one...is going to ruin my day in any way...shape or form and especially because i...me...myself...i refuse to harbor unforgiveness in my heart over something. My go to in that moment or the short time after...All i do is sit down and read Psalms 23 on my cellphone...or...call it out from memory... and ask Jesus for peace and strength and guess what...God lovingly gives it to me! Folks like to quote..."i can do all things thru Jesus who gives me strength"...do we believe that? Heres what i know....i can not live the christian life...i must let Jesus live His life thru me! Getting over being mad and forgiveness can be hard...but...to quote another scripture.... “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”.....Think about it!
I Have No Regrets About My Past...My Past Is Who I Am Today...Born Again!
Rick j Sane
For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light
Ephesians 5:8
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
1 Peter 1:3
We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
Romans 6:4
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
2 Corinthians 5:17
The Question of Inerrancy
~ Do you believe that all of the Bible is true?
Scripture Reading: 2 Timothy 3:14-17
Key Verse:
"All Scripture is inspired by God [breathed out by God; the Scripture is the product of God’s Spirit working through men] and is profitable for teaching, for rebuking, for correcting, for training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." ~ 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Have you ever wondered about the supposed inconsistencies critics point out in the Bible? Such things might leave you questioning how to tell what’s truly God’s Word and what isn’t. The answer is simple: God is the final authority. The Sovereign of the universe had no trouble keeping His Word pure. As 2 Timothy 3:16 says, “All Scripture is inspired by God.”
Reading the Bible as a whole document reveals that each part is consistent with every other. God allowed for writers’ differences in viewpoint and background, which at times can give the appearance of discrepancy. But further study always reveals how the various parts fit together. Consider, for example, the gospels’ different angles on a story. Writing to Jewish people, Matthew emphasizes history and the fulfillment of messianic prophecy. John tells a love story about a Savior willing to die for the world. While both authors traveled in Jesus’ company, their perspectives differed. Yet in the fundamentals, they and the other two writers are consistent.
It is critical for believers to trust in the inerrancy of the Scriptures. A flawed book could only be the product of man’s hand, but the Bible is the authoritative Word of God. His Spirit did the talking, no matter whose hand wrote the message.
_______________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/the-question-of-inerrancy-2
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He Is Righteous
"Dear children, don’t let anyone deceive you about this: When people do what is right, it shows that they are righteous, just as Christ is righteous." ~ 1 John 3:7
The plea for righteousness is an essential theme in the Bible. The word righteousness is not something we use in everyday speech, so it has lost some of its flavor.
“Righteousness” is a translation of the Greek word "dikaiosyne". It is also translated “justice". Plato’s Republic focuses on the meaning of dikaiosyne. The dialogue concludes that dikaiosyne occurs when a group of people serve one another to the maximum benefit of all. Not because they are compelled, but because they choose to do so.
Dikaiosyne is teamwork. When a group of talented people all choose to use their gifts to play their position to their utmost ability, they are practicing dikaiosyne. Righteousness is a beneficial harmony that we choose.
Another English word we use to translate dikaiosyne is “justice”. Justice in English means to ”line up with a standard”. Like “right justify” lines up with a right margin.
The Biblical standard of justice or righteousness is unity. But not unity for the sake of unity. People can unify around evil. True righteousness is when each of us chooses to do what we do best to benefit others. To serve. To love.
Righteousness is choosing to serve others, to seek their best interest by living and speaking the truth. When we choose this perspective, listen to God and act accordingly, we are following this admonition. Righteousness is living in a manner that serves others. We either do it, and in so doing follow Jesus’ example, or we don’t. It is not about talk. We can deceive with claims. But true righteousness is following the [Jesus] Way in our daily lives.
________________
~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net/devotional/he-is-righteous/
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Word Made Flesh
~ Jesus paid the ultimate price so that we can have peace with God.
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 40:1-5
Isaiah 40 reveals a shift in God’s communication with His people. In the previous 39 chapters, He spoke through the prophet about their sin and called them to repentance. But as chapter 40 begins, God’s emphasis moves from judgment to the hope of restoration.
Imagine the surprise the Israelites felt as they heard His words to the prophet: “Comfort, comfort My people ... Speak kindly to Jerusalem” (Isaiah 40:1-2). They no longer heard words of condemnation for their disobedience. God, in His mercy, declared their sins removed.
But that wasn’t all He had to say. Verses 3 and 5 point to a more profound truth that deserved a triumphant procession: “Clear the way for the Lord in the wilderness ... Then the glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all flesh will see it together.”
What glory would be revealed for all to see? Those words told of Jesus — God’s Word made flesh (John 1:14), who paid the ultimate price to fully restore us to God. Jesus, the One the angels announced as they filled the sky in worship, declaring, “Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased” (Luke 2:14 NLT).
______________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/word-made-flesh
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A Promised Hope
~ If you are in a season of waiting, don't become discouraged — the Lord always delivers.
Scripture Reading: Isaiah 11:1-6
Sometimes it can be hard to grasp how much time passed between events in the Bible. After the Old Testament’s completion, for instance, 400 years passed before God’s next direct revelation.
Let’s put that span in terms we can better comprehend. In 1620, the Pilgrims landed on the shores of what would become Massachusetts. That was 404 years ago. Think of all that has happened since then — everything from the American Revolution to man walking on the moon to the creation of artificial intelligence. God’s people waited that long without a word from the Lord! While many grew despondent, others clung to hope.
Anna, for example, was a widow and prophetess who served at the temple in Jerusalem, waiting for Israel’s redemption. She trusted that “A shoot will spring from the stem of Jesse ... and the Spirit of the Lord will rest on Him” (Isaiah 11:1-2). This promised Messiah would bring order, strength, counsel, and wisdom as He delighted in the Lord, and He would make everything right.
Then, at the appointed time, Anna witnessed the miracle of fulfilled prophecy as she gazed into the face of the tiny baby Jesus. In response, she praised and thanked God for being faithful to His promise (Luke 2:38). Like her, we can praise God, secure in the knowledge that God will do all He says He will do.
_________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/a-promised-hope
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The Daily Article — February 16, 2024
Is Russia sending nukes to space?
~ How to respond with faith when we’re right to be afraid.
News broke yesterday that Russia is developing a space-based nuclear weapon that “the United States does not have the ability to counter.”
This is what we know so far:
• The weapon would be intended to attack other satellites, potentially crippling space-based surveillance, civilian communications, and the military’s ability to coordinate and control operations.
• To this point, it does not appear that the weapon could be used to target locations on the ground.
• Russia does not appear ready to deploy the weapon at the moment, though it is unclear what their timeline for doing so might be.
• Should Russia — or any other nation — send nuclear weapons into space, it would violate the Outer Space Treaty of 1967. China, Russia, and the United States have all signed that treaty, but it remains one of the few from that era still in effect.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan met with representatives from the House Intelligence Committee on Thursday to discuss the president’s planned response.
Committee chairman Mike Turner said of the briefing:
“We all came away with a very strong impression that the administration is taking this very seriously and that the administration has a plan in place. We look forward to supporting them as they go to implement it.”
Should we be afraid?
Further details have been withheld in order to protect intelligence sources, and both the administration and Congress have been quick to note that there does not appear to be an immediate threat. Still, the nature of the response to date would seem to indicate that the danger is more than hypothetical.
When asked if he could tell Americans not to worry, Mr. Sullivan replied that it was “impossible to answer with a straight ‘yes.’”
After all, Russia does not necessarily have to use the weapon in order for it to have a potentially catastrophic impact. Simply sending it into orbit would be enough to fundamentally shift the way that other world powers like the US and China see space as a battleground. That’s why the 1967 agreement was signed in the first place.
And though the White House has stated that they do not intend to withdraw from the treaty even if Russia does, the uproar over the mere possibility that Russia will be the first to take that step demonstrates just how fragile those agreements can be.
Christ’s Most Challenging Command:
In times like this, I’m reminded of one of Christ’s most challenging commands: “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (Matthew 6:34).
The Greek phrase typically translated as “do not be anxious” is “me merimnao”, and it carries the idea of being “divided into parts” or “pulled in opposite directions.”
The idea is not that we never feel the emotions of fear or anxiety. After all, God never commands us how to feel. Rather, His instruction pertains to what we do with those emotions and the degree to which we allow them to control our thoughts and actions.
The sin against which we are warned is feeding our anxiety by dwelling on it instead of giving it back to God and trusting that our fears are not greater than our heavenly Father. And while that’s often easier said than done, choosing faith in the midst of fear can make a remarkable difference in how others perceive that faith.
Redeeming Anxiety:
Anxiety is an emotion common to all people, and dealing with fear is a struggle to which all of us can relate, even if the specific cause of concern varies from person to person.
Whether it’s Russian nukes and the threat of World War III, or something closer to home like stress at work or a strained relationship with family, being honest about our fears without letting them pull us in a thousand directions can demonstrate the power and authenticity of the gospel to those who desperately need to encounter both.
So don’t be naïve about the dangers we face, and don’t feel as though you have to act like everything is alright if it’s not. That’s not faith; it’s ignorance.
Instead, let God use those fears as a way of drawing you closer to Him and to remind you that He is still greater than any troubles we face in this world.
That’s how we can escape the anxiety that is ripping so many parts of our world apart and help others learn to do the same.
How stretched do you feel today?
______________
~ published by: Denison Ministries
https://www.denisonforum.org/daily-article/is-russia-sending-nukes-to-space/
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The Impact of Forgiveness
~ God's grace and kindness to us should naturally flow to others.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 18:21-35
When Peter asked Jesus about forgiveness, he probably thought he was being generous by asking if seven times was enough. In a place and time where grace and mercy were in short supply, the disciple likely felt himself incredibly charitable. So imagine his surprise when Jesus replied, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but 70 times seven” (Matthew 18:22).
Jesus then shared the parable of a slave who owed the king a great debt. The king felt compassion, released him, and forgave the debt. But later, the man found someone who owed him a smaller amount. Rather than extend a portion of the grace he’d received, the slave demanded payment and punished the other man until he could pay it all. Hearing of this wickedness, the king called back the slave who had shown no mercy to a fellow worker. Then the king withdrew his generous offer and handed the slave over to jailors to work off every single denarius he owed.
May an unmerciful mindset never be true of us.
When we truly grasp the depth of what Jesus did on the cross (Colossians 2:14), we should be eager to grant and freely share that gift with others. Forgiveness becomes a natural outpouring of the indwelling power of God within us, allowing us to forgive to the extreme — just as we are forgiven.
______________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/the-impact-of-forgiveness
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On Glorious Display
~ Our Creator lovingly crafted each of us into a masterpiece to reveal His glorious love.
Scripture Reading:
"I will praise You because I have been remarkably and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, and I know this very well." ~ Psalm 139:14
Did you ever study Vincent van Gogh’s famous painting “The Starry Night”? It’s a captivating blend of circles and swirls that form a dreamlike sky. On one level, it’s intriguing to picture yourself in the scene and imagine the vivid sights and gentle breeze implied by the curling forms. But if you look more closely, you’ll begin to see nothing about the painting is haphazard. Every stroke of blue, yellow, green, white, and purple is unique and intentional, creating contrast between sky and stars. The combination of colors brings depth and richness to the composition, and each hue is enriched because it exists in harmony with those around it.
As beautiful as van Gogh’s masterwork might be, it pales in comparison to what the Creator has accomplished in us, His beloved children. We believers are each a unique blend of personality, gifts, and experiences that God has mixed together and continually applies so we simultaneously enhance and are enhanced by those around us.
What an honor it is to be God’s handiwork!
While every Christian is a small piece of the whole of creation, we never lose our distinctiveness or get lost in the grandeur of the big picture. Quite the contrary — God knows exactly where we are and keeps us in mind as He adds others to His magnum opus.
________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/on-glorious-display
•
In todays world...theres a lot of things going on that has a lot of people baffled...and what i want to talk about this morning...and im talkin to born-again believers...and im going to ruffle some feathers but thats okay. All of us are very well familiar with what is called the the opioid crisis...bottom line...its drug addiction. And a lot of people have a lot of strong opinions and beliefs and concerns which are all very well warranted..but..as born-again believers...with all the moaning and groaning and griping that goes on concerning this issue of opioids and addiction...lets think about the reality of it. Now i often say...nobody wakes up one morning and says im going to become a drug addict...and in todays world...here in the USA...there is probably as many people addicted to drugs that live on the right side of the tracks as those that we like to label as living on the wrong or other side of the tracks...meaning...drug addiction today isnt just hippies and bikers and street people...so to speak...drug addiction dont discriminate. Millions of people start out on opioids for a legitimate reason from surgery or pain from accidents...and before one knows it...BAM! So why is that...well ill call the duck a duck...because getting high feels good...its fun...so why wouldnt a person want to get high...What did i just say?! People dont get high because they dislike it...i mean really! However...over a period of time the party ends and suddenly that proverbial monkey is on ones back and in many senses of the word...Hell on Earth begins. So...time to ruffle those feathers. So let me ask the Believers...when we go down to the beer joint and we have a couple beers or a couple shots of whiskey...or more...or...we come home and do the same just to knock the edge off a hard day and we do that just to catch a little buzz...get a little high...what are we doing? Have you saw the commercial where law enforcement says that buzzed driving is drunk driving. The Bible says dont be drunk with wine...its a sin...i wonder if the Holy Spirit says that a buzz is drunkenness? Now hear this...im not talking about having a beer or mixed drink with a meal or a beer on a hot summer day...im talking about getting a buzz. And if we can get a buzz...get a little or a lot high on booze...why are we so up in the air about someone getting high on drugs...does the Holy Spirit say that there is a difference...or...is it all the same? I started out talking about everyone being up in the air about the opioid crisis...is getting high not getting high in Gods eyes? Listen folks...i have 25 years seniority as a druggy and a drunk before i came to know Jesus as Lord and Savior and have not put drink to my lips nor a mind altering drug in my body for 28 years now...why...because i believe with the Holy Spirit living in me...and here is the warm and fuzzy answer...i want to be high on Jesus...nothing else. Scripture says that light and darkness can not coexist together...so i wonder what the Holy Spirit thinks living in me when i get high even if its just a buzz?....Think about it!
I Have No Regrets About My Past...My Past Is Who I Am Today...Born Again!
Rick j Sane
For you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.
1 Corinthians 6:20
And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Colossians 3:17
So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.
1 Corinthians 10:31
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:16
Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own,
1 Corinthians 6:19
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