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Thank you for the discussion topic plugger.
My thoughts: those that "practice such deeds" have never accepted God’s gift of salvation.
Beginning with Romans 1 verse 18, the passage that leads up to the verse you shared (v32), the Holy Spirit, through Paul, begins by calling out that all unbelievers have no excuse:
”18 For God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against all godlessness and unrighteousness of people who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth, 19 since what can be known about God is evident among them, because God has shown it to them. 20 For His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen since the creation of the world, being understood through what He has made. As a result, people are without excuse. 21 For though they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God or show gratitude. Instead, their thinking became nonsense, and their senseless minds were darkened."
I believe that God designed within mankind’s DNA the desire to seek Him, and thus at some point in every human beings existence on Earth, He will stir that piece of Him in each of us that triggers our knowledge of God, and at that point we can either acknowledge (Him) and accept (repent), or dis-acknowledge (Him) and reject (my will - not His). Thankfully, God allows us until our last breath to acknowledge and accept Him through the sacrificial death and resurrection of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Then beginning in verse 26 God allows others to seek their own destruction:
”26 This is why God delivered them over to degrading passions. For even their females exchanged natural sexual relations for unnatural ones. 27 The males in the same way also left natural relations with females and were inflamed in their lust for one another. Males committed shameless acts with males and received in their own persons the appropriate penalty of their error. 28 And because they did not think it worthwhile to acknowledge God, God delivered them over to a worthless mind to do what is morally wrong."
There are many “Christian” fellowships that promote this lifestyle, and even twist scripture that deceives many into believing that God is okay with it; and I believe that it can be any sin that a man or woman has decided within their own mind is acceptable to God.
“29 Many are filled with all unrighteousness, evil, greed, and wickedness. They are full of envy, murder, quarrels, deceit, and malice. They are gossips, 30 slanderers, God-haters, arrogant, proud, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, 31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, and unmerciful."
Leading up to the verse that you shared:
”32 Although they know full well God’s just sentence — that those who practice such things deserve to die — they not only do them, but even applaud others who practice them."
I believe what determines someone being “saved” or “not saved” is in the key words “who practice such things” in the verse that you shared. If we have truly accepted God’s grace, then we will not desire to sin against God, and will not “practice such things” that go against Scripture, and, an abomination to God.
"There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to Him: arrogant eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that plots wicked schemes, feet that make haste to do wrong, a lying witness who gives false testimony, and one who stirs up trouble amongst brethren.” ~ Proverbs 6:16-19
Hopefully, I didn’t wander too far from your original topic 😃
Have a great day, and may God bless you and yours!
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As It Should Be
“So give Your servant an understanding heart to judge Your people to discern between good and evil.” – 1 Kings 3:9
Life on the plains has one very subtle but important difference when compared to life in the valley or on the mountaintops. When we are suffering or ecstatic, there is an extraordinary element to our circumstance. We try to avoid the extremely hurtful situations and long for the ones that make us feel extremely good.
The plains have a different feel. They are quite ordinary. It is how life is. This is both the great benefit of the plains and the great danger. The benefit comes when we understand that ordinary life is life as it should be. It is a life of responsibility and choices.
Discernment is the key for navigation in the plains. Our perspective determines whether we fall asleep on this terrain or are most awakened.
When our discernment is miscalibrated, we think our circumstances determine our happiness, and perhaps need to change. We think we can’t serve or choose or love unless we get to the mountains.
When our discernment is aligned to the true North, we are able to perceive that life on the plains is an incredible opportunity. Living by faith when the routines of life inform us that we are in control is a great challenge. To have a judging heart in order to discern the good opportunities of the day rather than succumb to the evils of apathy. It is in embracing and succeeding in this challenge that some of our greatest blessings can be found.
________________
~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net
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"Success".....HUMMMM !! don't know for sure if I am right or wrong, but it made good common sense to me at the time. When my kids were High School age and thinking on careers I tried to explain success...."It is not how much money you make that makes a successful person , now listen to your daddy real close because to me this is success-----If person gets up in the morning and is happy to go to work and if at the end of the day this person is happy to go home, if this person's bills are paid, if there is food on the table and both the wife & husband has a couple bucks in their pocket and all is happy----this is success..." wish I had used your ending with God in there also....today all of them are in their 40"s & 50"s, all have Godly faith & all will gladly help their fellow man-----sounds like their mom did a pretty good job---OH YES...all are Christians......A lot of filthy rich people are miserable and a lot of poor, broke folks are as happy as if they have no sense. Back years ago I had 3 different small trucking companies, the least of my problems was money, then I got hurt and was out of work for right at 2 years, we almost everything, today I am retired & have nowhere the money I had years ago, but today I have more than enough money in the bank and in my pocket than I had back then. Back then when I was really struggling to make ends meet I had a long chat with God and in short order all worked out, don't get me wrong the ole devil did his very best to lead me astray, but thanks to daily spending time in God's word and every morning having chat time & coffee with the good Lord has kept the ole devil away. Temptation is daily there, but, I am truly scared to death to break my covenant with God....I didn't try to make a deal with God not did I try to bargain with God, I made a covenant with God, a covenant is good as long as the 2 parties keep their word, God has stood by me and I am scared to death to try to do things my way.....I have cancer and I have a bad heart and nothing bothers one way or the other, happier now than when I was in tall cotton..My friends that is success with a pretty bow on it
So after i posted this morning i had a doctors appointment and just got back and wanted to reply to pluggers post before i ate my dinner...thats lunch for you city folks...wink...then get out for part 2 of this day. Anyway.. this doctor said he would see me in a year so i reckon that means i have at least another year here on planet earth...right. I know thats true because ive heard plugger say that... so... its got to be true...right?
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
Every now and again whether i need to or not…i often like to tell folks…the things that i say to people face-to-face in person concerning God the Father God...God the Son... God the Holy Spirit…about God's holy and infallible word…and the same thing goes for here on the Bible board. Don't take everything that I say as the right way…the only way…im just another simple man trying each and every day to let God mold me a little more and more into the likeness of Jesus…sometimes i succeed sometimes i fail. And everything that i speak i truly believe to be the truth in the way that the Holy Spirit has helped me to interpret the word of God…but again…im human…so please… Not just with me or with anybody…and again i don't know that i have to tell folks this but i sometimes do. Open up your Bible…read and talk to God…and let Him explain to you personally what he has to say to you as an individual…When i talk about scripture i always try and keep in mind the following scripture....
For I testify to everyone who hears the words of the prophecy of this book: If anyone adds to these things, God will add to him the plagues that are written in this book; and if anyone takes away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part from the Book of Life, from the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.
Revelation 22:18-19
I will start out with the quote that I'm sure we have all said…"Love the sinner... hate the sin"... and I agree with your statement 100% brother..
This morning i was sitting and thinking about my life and in that i was thinking about the word..."success". Now im sure we have all heard a couple earthly phrases...“The one who dies with the most toys wins”...and..."You cant take it with you". So this morning i wonder in many peoples hearts what the definition of success is as we watch this brass ring driven world we are living in. So what is success? Having our dreams come true? Getting all we want? Earning enough money so that we never have to work again? Having the best and most of everything? Is that success? Now im not saying that these things are necessarily bad..its all in how you handle it and how much it consumes you and whether or not it has become an idol in ones life. Remember...scripture tells us..."For the love of money is the root of all evil". However...my view of success is this...And I say this without hesitation or regret. Success is the progressive realization of the will of God for ones life. Thats what success is. Its not how much money you have. Its not how famous you are. Its not how healthy you are. Its not how many friends you have or how many toys you have acquired. Success is nothing more...nothing less...than the progressive realization of the will of God for your life. What was Jesus saying when He said we are not to store up treasures on earth but to store them in heaven? Im thinking as born-again believers our treasure is Jesus and when we commit our resources...our money...our time...our talents...to His work in this world...we have obtained success. Jesus said "I came that they may have life and have it abundantly"...and what does that mean...i think it means not more stuff...but something far better...peace...joy and contentment thru Jesus...thats life more abundant! Remember...anything...ANYTHING...that we put above God..im serious...better think about it...is an idol!...and we know what God said about idols....
I Have No Regrets About My Past...My Past Is Who I Am Today...Born Again!
Rick j Sane
Jesus said to him, “If you would be perfect, go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.”
Matthew 19:21
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:19-21
“Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also”
Matthew 6:21
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God.”
Romans 12:2
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving”
Colossians 3:23–24
Something here that has grabbed my eye every time I read it.... I Romans 1 at the end of the chapter it reads--"Knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.." Pretty sure I have a handle on this, but I have experienced in organized religion where in order to keep numbers on the roll and not to be offensive to some our (my) church approves "those who practice such"......sinners belong sitting next to me in church not in leadership rolls. There is a difference ( I think) in a Christian who sins and then ask for forgiveness and one who does not seek forgiveness and continues to practice living in a way to satisfy their own selfish desires. A big difference in a person struggling to do right and a person knowing they are doing wrong and thumbing their nose at God and doing what their desires lead them to do. Just what I have thought on this little passage, any thoughts appreciated
GOD BLESS
The God to Whom We Pray
~ As we grow in relationship with our heavenly Father, our requests become bolder.
Scripture Reading: Nehemiah 1:1-11
Nehemiah demonstrates the power of prayer. As a servant to the king of Persia, he had no right to request leave to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls, much less to requisition materials and protection. Yet knowing the God to whom he prayed, Nehemiah did not hesitate to act boldly and ask the king for assistance.
His prayer began, “Please, LORD God of heaven” (Nehemiah 1:5). LORD, when capitalized this way, means the One “who is eternal in His being” — in other words, Jehovah. When God makes a promise, He knows how He’ll keep it. That’s why Nehemiah called Him “the great and awesome God, who keeps the covenant.”
Another Hebrew name for God is “Elohim", meaning “He who is sovereign.” This name refers to the Creator and speaks of His omnipotence. He spoke the world into being, so Nehemiah knew He was more than able to provide all that was needed.
The Bible contains many other names for God, such as “Adonai" (“master”), "Jehovah-Jireh" (“provider”), and "Jehovah-Rapha" (“healer”). Since the Hebrew language is precise, it can help us to better know who the Lord is. Then, we’ll confidently turn to Him in any situation: When we need solace, we call upon the God of comfort; in our confusion, we have the God who teaches.
Always remember, the way we view God impacts how we pray.
________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/the-god-to-whom-we-pray-2
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Dude…i can tell you right up front here…that for me to do any less thinking…i don't know where I'm going to end up…i tell people all the time that I only have two brain cells left…for me to have a good day they have to bump into each other for me to have any kind of sensible conversation…but that's OK… I am used to me so it does not cause any conflict…because I have also found…it seems like everywhere that I go I am there?… What's that all about? And your statement that we are a mess…well… I have signed and notarized paperwork that says that about me…i just cling tight to Philippians 4:13… I can do all things through Jesus who gives me strength…but even He has His hands full with me… Have an awesome day brother…wait a minute…hmmm.... What... were ...we... talking ...about?
I have often said, humor is good for the soul....so If I may add a touch of humor here-------All through your post I thought, "Plugger, you and Tenac gotta stop thinking"-----I think you got 1 brain cell left and I am running on half charge, basically we are a mess........Appreciate your reply on this subject----I learn so much from others adding in their thoughts
God Bless -- my friend
Good morning...as we know…God knows us totally and completely…He knows our heart…He knows our mind… He knows our soul…totally and completely. And I have to wonder…that often times…what we as humans think in our head…might not necessarily be what's going on in our heart and soul? That could be on the bad side or the good side of whatever…but.... we are talking about Faith…so I will ask a question. I wonder if sometimes when we think that we don't have a lot of faith in ourself or Jesus concerning something…that be our head knowledge…i wonder if deep down in our heart and soul we actually have a lot of faith. Maybe an example would be…we have a task…and in our head we say I can't do that…but we take our first step and before we know it we have completed that task…our head knowledge told us we couldn't…but our heart knowledge....faith...helped up accomplished it. And all of this in relationship to the faith we didnt think we had? So I ask again…i wonder…if often times…we actually have far more faith than we think we do in ourself and especially in Jesus as we grow thru the sanctification process of God molding us more and more into the likeness of Jesus. But of course on the other side of this conversation for another day there is those times that we don't have a lot of faith. I guess the point is....no matter what we think of ourselves regarding how much faith we have or dont have...God knows our heart totally and completely be our faith as little as that mustard seed or the size of a watermellon....and of course it is not our faith in ourselves that moves that mountain...it is our faith in God moving that mountain and that mountain might be drugs...booze...sickness...a spouse wants a divorce....lost a job...and the list goes on and on. True Faith in God be it the size of a mustard seed or like a watermellon is what gets the job done! So... something for y'all to think on in your head and heart and have an awesome day!
I did a post not long ago about the mustard seed, the mustard seed is extremely small, maybe around 1/32nd of an inch, yet Jesus said that little amount of faith can move a mountain......what hit me most in my study is how I have thought in terms of larger amounts of faith....."If I had this amount of faith I could______", I overlooked what God will do with my small amount of faith, by neglecting my small amount of faith I do nothing because my focus is on --"If I had more faith I could______". Very deep subject here, wish I was better at explaining but reckon that ain't my job, but take a moment and try to put your 1/32nd of an inch worth of faith to work and see just what God can do with your effort.... I have said many, many times that I just don't understand why my little prayers get answered but my big prayers go by the wayside.....OH ME !! of little faith---I have learned not to wish that if I had more faith "I could do____" but to trust in God that He will take my small amount of faith and put it to work for His will, not mine.".......My human side at times seems to be my natural enemy.
GOD BLESS & Happy Hump Day, hang in there the week-end is just around the corner----that's for you working folks, us old retired guys & gals we have a hard time knowing what day it is
Just A Little
“You don’t have enough faith,” Jesus told them. “I tell you the truth, if you had faith even as small as a mustard seed, you could say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it would move. Nothing would be impossible.” ~ Matthew 17:20
When the professional baseball player is interviewed after hitting the game winning home run it is notable how often their response is something like “I was just trying to put a good swing on the ball.” It is equally common to hear an announcer say “And he strikes out, it looked like he was trying to get it back all at once”. When we do the little things, big things often come. But when we try to make big things happen, we often get nothing.
When it comes to the power of our faith, we can become obsessed with hitting home-runs. We focus on a particular outcome. But that is not faith. Faith is trusting God to determine the outcomes. Faith is doing our part and being willing to accept the result. Jesus illustrated this in a graphic way in the Garden of Gethsemane. As He was being personally crushed like an olive in a press, He prayed three times that the cup be removed. But He accepted “no” as an answer, and went to the cross.
Being faithful in our everyday choices is like “putting a good swing on the ball.” It is easy to not see this kind of faithfulness as valuable. But life is a team sport. When we play our role faithfully, we are advancing the Kingdom.
__________________
~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net
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Thanks ….i love the discussion, always good to hear folks thoughts & views.
As we know…and just to throw a number out there...10 million years before God created the heavens and the Earth and everything on it…yes of course us humans too. God knew then that after He created man there was going to come a time that they would get so wicked that he would send a flood to start over. Even way back then He knew there would come another time that his only Son Jesus would have to come to this earth and die on a cross and be raised again. God is all-knowing known as omniscience.....and of course Jesus and the Holy Spirit also knew this because all three of them…the Trinity… Have always existed. So my point in that… As we also know…the Jewish leaders wanted Jesus dead…and the Romans nailed Jesus to the cross…but they do not actually get the credit for killing Jesus because that's the entire reason that Jesus came to this earth was to die on the cross…Right? So in reading your post I got to thinking…and this is just me…but for whatever reason…it seems like the crucifixion...the cross...comes to my mind a lot…in my thought…in conversation…because as we also know…that six hours that Jesus hung nailed to that cross…there was a whole lot that was going on…a whole lot that happened. It seems like just every little bit when things happen…in my thoughts or words or actions…or other peoples words or actions…it sends me back to thinking about the day Jesus died on the cross... and again…all that happened in that six hour time. Sometimes when I sin I think of it in a way that it's almost like im nailing Jesus to that cross once again. Like in the picture i have at the bottom of all my post of Jesus holding up the man with a mallet and spike in his hands. I often think about the fact that that day that Jesus hung on the cross when the sins of the world came upon Him. I believe in that moment…Supernaturally of course…a God thing…every person that was ever going to live on this earth…came to Jesus mind…and every sin that they were going to commit came to his mind…and that is how he paid everybody's sin debt in full…as long as at some point in their life they become born again. But still He paid everyones sin debt in full even though in that moment He knew the ones that were actually going to be saved in the ones that were not… Right. How Jesus knew how messed up i was going to be during my 25 years of booze and drugs and yet He died and forgave me all the same. And I seriously could sit here and come up with several other ways of things that happens in my life and around me that draws my mind back to that day that Jesus was on the cross… and…when I do how it brings comfort to me. One thing that has always stuck in my mind so vividly is the first time that I watched the movie at the movie theater on the big screen…The passion of the Christ. I think that was back around the year 2000…i had only been saved about five years at that time…i grew up in church till around age 17…i knew all about the beating and the scourging and how bad the crucifixion was…but when I saw that movie…and as realistic and shocking as it was…in real life what Jesus actually went through was far worse…hard to imagine but I'm sure that it was. So anyway… If anyone has never watched that movie… The Passion of the Christ…i would encourage you to do so… It really brings to light what our Lord and Savior Jesus has done for us. The very God that created us...died for us...rose from the dead...so that we might have a home in heaven if we will believe and put out faith and trust in Him. So as tragic as the cross was...i find much comfort it it because it shows me just how much Jesus loves me...AWESOME!!!
The Passion of the CHRIST
If you dont have a personal relationship with Jesus. Im going to give you the opportunity to do that right here right now. If you will pray this prayer...not only from your mouth but also your heart...and mean it like nothing you have ever spoken before. Jesus will come into your life and heart and save you. You will be born-again!
Lord Jesus, Im like everyone else...i cant make it through life on my own. Im imperfect. Im prone to sin. I have come to realize that theres nothing in the world I can do to make myself acceptable to You. But I know that You have loved me so much that You were willing to die on my behalf. That's a grace so amazing I cannot understand it...i can only accept it. And i do. Please forgive my sins and i accept Your free gift of Salvation... and I know that from this moment on... i am saved...i am a child of God. And i give the rest of my life to serving You and experiencing the joy that only You can offer. Fill me now with your Holy Spirit dear Lord...and raise me to walk in the newness of life. I thank You and praise You!
Amen.
If you just prayed this prayer and meant it...you are now born-again and have a home in heaven! Go tell the world and if you dont already have a church family...please find one...And if you would like to talk...send me a private message....i will give you a call....
I Have No Regrets About My Past...My Past Is Who I Am Today...Born Again!
Rick j Sane
Every human that has every lived here on planet earth. All of the 7.6 billion people that live here today...and...every person that will live here in the future until that day that God says enough and destroys the heavens and earth. Every person is going to do one of two things when death ends our life in this earthly body. So...lets think about that. When you watch a movie and your really into it and in the scene it shows a person dying and they maybe say a word or two and move their head around a little and maybe someone is holding them in their arms...the camera is up close and personal...and then their eyes close and they are dead. Im sure we have all watched a good many scenes like that in TV movies and that seems like the end for that person...but...that is the furthest thing from the truth as it is actually just the beginning! In that moment that a human body dies...the supernatural by Gods hand takes over. Something that you and i...even though we kinda sorta understand death and we kinda sorta understand life after death...it really is a mystery to us exactly what is happening in that moment as obviously we have never died before. However...here is something i can assure you. When the human body dies and in that moment...the soul...who we are...our character...our personality...our intellect....in that moment that we die and the supernatural takes over...one of two things are going to happen. If we are a born again believer in that moment we are going to find ourselves...our soul... taken up by angels into the presence of God and Jesus in paradise...in heaven...in total and complete joy, happiness, peace and contentment surrounded and engulfed in the love and light of almighty God! If we are unsaved...in that moment we are going to find ourselves...our soul...taken by demons into Hades in pain and torment as the punishment begins for never accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior and we will suffer in Hades until judgement day comes and we are found guilty by God and Jesus and are cast into the lake of fire in hell...separated from Gods love. If we go to heaven or we go to hell...that is where we are going to be for all eternity...that be forever. There are no do overs....when we close our eyes and draw our last breath in this human body...the stage is set and in the blink of the eye we will be at our next destination ....where are you headed?
I Have No Regrets About My Past...My Past Is Who I Am Today...Born Again!
Rick j Sane
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
Revelation 21: 3-4
And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment,
Hebrews 9:27
And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”
Matthew 25:46
For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.
Galatians 6:8
They will suffer the punishment of eternal destruction, away from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his might,
2 Thessalonians 1:9
Truly, truly, I say to you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life. He does not come into judgment, but has passed from death to life.
John 5:24
Developing Godly Habits
~ God blesses those who persevere, working hard to carry out His will.
Picture this: In a field nestled among rolling hills, a hardworking farmer toils day after day, sowing seeds and nurturing tender plants. From dawn till dusk, he tends to the crops, knowing that lazy hands yield no harvest. With unwavering faith and persistence, the farmer trusts that the output of labor will be rewarded.
Proverbs 10:4 tells us, “Poor is one who works with a lazy hand, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.” This proverb is about more than material wealth; it speaks to the richness of a diligent life. As a bountiful harvest results from industrious labor, so our life is shaped by our habits — the choices we make day after day.
Through prayer and obedience, we align ourselves with God’s plans instead of our own. This is how we cultivate habits grounded in His Word. This kind of diligence goes hand in hand with stewardship of our time, talents, relationships, and resources. Wisely using such things for God’s glory will bring a good return for His kingdom.
Let us prayerfully evaluate our habits:
• Are we using our time purposefully?
• Are we nurturing relationships that honor God?
• Are we faithfully stewarding our resources?
Seek God’s guidance and make intentional choices that align with His will.
________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/
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Built on Christ
"You are living stones that God is building into His spiritual temple.” ~ 1 Peter 2:5
Scripture Reading: 1 Peter 2:4-10
We have all sorts of names for groups of animals. No doubt you’ve heard of a “flock" of sheep, a “herd" of cattle, or even a “gaggle" of geese. But some names may surprise you. A group of crows is called a “murder". How about a “congregation" of alligators, or a “crash" of rhinoceroses? Have you heard of a "building of rooks" (Eurasian crows)?
Building, in fact, is one of the names in the Bible for believers in Jesus. “You are . . . God’s building,” wrote the apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 3:9). There are other names for believers as well: “the flock” (Acts 20:28), “the body of Christ” (1 Corinthians 12:27), “brothers and sisters” (1 Thessalonians 2:14), and more.
The building metaphor recurs in 1 Peter 2:5, as Peter tells the church, “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house.” Then, in verse 6, Peter quotes Isaiah 28:16, “See, I lay a stone in Zion, a chosen and precious cornerstone.” Jesus is the very foundation of His building.
We may have the sense that it’s our job to build the church, but Jesus said, “I will build my church” (Matthew 16:18). We’re chosen by God to “declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light” (1 Peter 2:9). As we declare those praises, we become instruments in His hands as He does His good work.
~ by Bill Crowder
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Reflect & Pray:
• What does it mean for Jesus to build His church?
• How can you participate in that work?
"Dear God, forgive me for the times I think it’s all about me. Please use me to serve You and love others as You build Your church. In Jesus’ name, amen."
___________________
Scripture Insight:
The apostle Peter describes believers in Jesus this way: “You also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house” (1 Peter 2:5). He wasn’t the only New Testament writer to utilize the building metaphor. In fact, Paul uses that imagery multiple times in Ephesians alone. In Ephesians 2:21-22 we read, “In Christ the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in Him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by His Spirit.” God crafts His people into a “building” — a “spiritual house” — which is His dwelling place. Not only is this true of believers in Jesus collectively, it’s also the case for individual believers. The apostle also wrote: “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own” (1 Corinthians 6:19).
~ by Bill Crowder
https://odb.org/2024/09/16/built-on-christ
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Lord Jesus! I Love You!!! 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
behind every dark cloud that brings struggles into our lives is the sunshine that will come forth....we just have to look for it. every dark cloud experience offers us an opportunity to shine & count our blessings ------God Bless
Solitude with Emmanuel
~ May you be encouraged and motivated today to get truly alone with the Father in these days.
One of the greatest privileges of the Christian faith is solitude with God. Engaging in solitude with our Creator is a life-giving celebration of His heart. Our God isn’t after what we can do for Him. He’s all about being with His people in restored, unhindered relationship.
Isaiah 7:14 prophesies about the birth of Christ saying:
“Therefore, the Lord Himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call His name Immanuel.”
Immanuel means, “God with us.” How amazing is it that the King of heaven and earth would desire to be called “God with us” and that our Creator would want to be known as one who would write Himself into the story of His creation in such a way as to be tangibly, truly present.
When we take time to get alone with the Father apart from any other agenda, to simply open our hearts and be with Him, we declare to ourselves and to God that our lives are centered around Him. When we make space to hold off on questions (and reading, learning, and growing) to simply rest in His nearness, we discover that God is far better and far more loving than we ever could have guessed [or imagined].
Solitude with God is a place of abundant joy. It’s a place of peace and encounter that no other spiritual discipline can bring. It’s a source of perspective and freedom in times typically marked by frivolous pursuits and stress. And it’s a cornerstone of Christian spirituality: a pursuit of God that casts aside every ulterior motive to simply and purely be with God.
John 1:14 says:
“And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.”
The heart of Jesus is marked by grace and truth. He sees you as you are. He knows exactly what you need. Take time to discover the grace of God to speak to you as you simply open your heart and listen. Trust in His perfect love and leadership by sitting at His feet and letting Him say everything, or nothing at all. Fix your eyes on Jesus today and enjoy the simplicity of solitude.
May your heart be filled with peace and joy as you encounter Emmanuel, God with us.
One of the greatest markers in my life for how I’m doing, is how consistently I am getting time to simply enjoy God. Loving and being loved by God is foundational to every other aspect of the Christian life. It’s only in experiencing God’s love that I can effectively love others. It’s only in enjoying God that I am able to fully enjoy family and friends. Sometimes the simplest of things are the most powerful. May your heart be light today as you find joy in the simplicity of solitude with God.
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~ from an article by: First 15
https://www.first15.org/
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Good Word for the day plugger!
Psalm 51:10---"Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence, and do not take your Holy Spirit from me"
I have a hard time this morning being focused, then I ran across this passage and it seemed fitting for what I needed
GOD BLESS & have a great Saturday
Good Congee
"He went down and dipped himself in the Jordan seven times, as the man of God had told him.” ~ 2 Kings 5:14
Scripture Reading: 2 Kings 5:1-3, 9-14
Jocelyn’s bestselling dish at her food stall was her congee. She’d stir the rice porridge very carefully until it had a smooth consistency. So, she was startled when a regular customer said, “Your congee tastes different. The texture isn’t as fine.”
Jocelyn’s new assistant had prepared it this time and explained why it was different: “I didn’t stir it as long as the recipe said since that’s how I do it at home. I also added more sesame oil. In my opinion, it tastes better that way.” She had decided to ignore the recipe and do it her way instead.
This is how I sometimes respond to God’s instructions. Instead of fully obeying His commands as given in Scripture, I subject them to my opinions and proceed my way.
Naaman, the commander of the Syrian army, was on the verge of making a similar mistake. On receiving God’s instruction through the prophet Elisha to wash himself in the Jordan so his leprosy would be healed, the proud soldier got angry. He had his own expectations for how his need ought to be addressed, believing his opinion was superior to God’s command. His servants, however, convinced him to listen to Elisha’s words. As a result, Naaman was healed.
When we do things God’s way, we experience a peace that’s indescribable. Let’s work with Him in fulfilling His purposes.
~ by Karen Huang
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Reflect & Pray:
• How do you allow your opinions to compromise your obedience to God?
• How does this affect His work in your life?
"Dear God, please help me to obey You in full, for Your command far surpasses my opinion. Amen"
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Scripture Insight:
What we see of Naaman in 2 Kings 5 is a reminder of our human propensity for “self-salvation strategies” — self-styled plans to improve ourselves, our status with others, and even with God Himself. While there’s nothing wrong with general self-improvement, we can only have a right relationship with God by accepting Christ’s sacrifice as the payment for our sin. We can’t allow pride, self-righteousness, and worldly wisdom to get in the way. Acts 16:30-31 says, “‘Sirs, what must I do to be saved?’ They replied, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved — you and your household.’”
~ by Arthur Jackson
https://odb.org/2024/09/14/good-congee
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I wonder----while waiting for my bride to get ready to go the grocery, I sat at my desk and just flipped open my Bible, it opened in Mark where Peter was 3 times denying Christ....As I read I wondered if maybe, not being judgmental just wondering, if maybe folks should think more on the crucification than we do, maybe I am just thinking of me, IDUNNO...Like I said just a passing thought while waiting
GOD BLESS
Looking For A Fight
“Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” ~ Romans 12:21
In all the superhero stories, there is a fine line that is very difficult for the hero to walk. On the one hand, the hero is called to fight for justice and goodness. On the other hand, a fight is a fight. Villains are not vanquished with good manners. In the fight itself, it can be difficult to discern the difference between the two. Both are fighting, and the fighting is violent and difficult.
Superheroes are born to fight. It is their purpose. But they lose their way when they can no longer distinguish their behaviors and motives from the bad guys. Their goodness is found in the purpose for which they fight. The true superheroes fight for freedom.
The struggle is the same for us. Faith superheroes also need to fight for the right things, and the right reasons. God does not call us to “get our way.” We are not called to achieve what the world values. The Marvel villains inevitably seek to control the world. Their motive is a tyranny where all must bow to their will. The superhero risks his life so that people can make their own choices. The superhero fights for freedom.
We are attracted to Marvel superhero stories because in the deep recesses of our heart we long to follow the ultimate faith superhero - Jesus. The Bible tells us “It was for freedom that Christ set us free.” Our freedom was purchased with his life. On the other hand, Satan is a tyrant, seeking to bend all to his will. What he calls freedom is slavery. Jesus calls us to true freedom, the freedom to serve others as faith superheroes. A cause worth fighting for.
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~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net
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On hearing, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick."
—Matthew 9:12 💝
Thanks for sharing
Good morning ...for whatever reason this morning I was looking back over post on the Bible board from back in late 2019 and early 2020… Just to see some of the stuff that we were posting back when the Covid thing was going on… and I came across this post from 2019 that I had posted and copy / paste to put here this morning…just to show anybody that may be reading here…i don't care what you're going through…i don't care how tragic and unnecessary and lost your life may seem… or maybe you have a family member that their life is falling apart…there is always hope…and that hope is the Lord Jesus Christ always and forever!
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
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
Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.
Proverbs 19:21
For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.
1 John 5:4
God is still in the answering of prayer business. Just talk with God, He already knows everything, He knows what is on your mind before you speak, so why not just go ahead and just talk with God like you would a friend. ----1 Corinthians 2:9----"Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him."------You can find this also in Isaiah 64:4---How many times I have read this, how many times I have heard this preached on, how many times did I really not grasp the true message, I have no idea....everyday in my morning coffee time chatting with God I always ask for wisdom, I, being really thick upstairs, just want to understand, I think I understand only to find that I know nothing----Now back to God answering prayer, this morning not knowing where in my Bible I wanted to go next I talked with God in all seriousness and I felt led to 1st Corinthians, I got to 2:9 and got to reading several resource things and developed an understanding I never had before, I'll not try to explain. Reckon my point is----God truly answered my prayer, I felt the presence of the Holy Spirit teaching me....Think on this, if you will, All throughout the N.T. we are taught that "ALL" learning comes from God through the Holy Spirit. Now I understand that God uses man to spread His word, But the Spirit is what draws us near.
May I ask why you visited the Bible Board this morning ? May I suggest to you that you are right hear reading different post because you are right where God wants you to be, doing exactly what God wants you to be doing. Truly, to be caught in the presence of God, His Son Jesus & the Holy Spirit is an awesome experience------God is still in the Prayer answering business---give it a try
Thank You for Visiting the Bible Board!
We Are Honored That You Have Stopped By!
And Would Love for You to Participate on the Board as the Lord, thru the Holy Spirit, Lays on Your Heart.
This IHUB Board (forum) postings and discussions are based upon Biblical principles. We believe that the Bible is the infallible Word of God. The Word was penned by humans of antiquity under the direction of the omniscient Holy Spirit – One of the omnipotent and omnipresent Persons of the triune God and Creator of the Universe.
We welcome thought-provoking discussion of those that are truly seeking to understand the nature of God and His desires for our lives as taught by His Word – the Bible.
This is the BEST explanation I have EVER heard to one of the toughest most asked question of you if you are a Christian you NEED to listen to this dudes TRUTH so when others ask you the explanation you give will make sense to them.
No matter if you are a Christian or not the evil one LOVES to use this question.
http://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=4364364543579305
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