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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
Two Kinds of Understanding
“By faith we understand that the universe was created by God’s command [Word], so that what is seen has been made from things that are not visible.” – Hebrews 11:3
There are two kinds of understanding talked about throughout Scripture:
The first is a kind of spiritual wisdom, which we are implored to pursue. Though it cost all you have, gain understanding.
“Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment.” ~ Proverbs 4:7
The second is a kind of worldly perspective we are taught to set aside. Do not lean on your own understanding.
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding.” ~ Proverbs 3:5
One of the great challenges in a life of faith is living in the tension of these two kinds of understanding. How do we do our best with what we know while embracing the reality that we do not comprehend it all? How do we see while trusting in the unseen?
The answer is a bit like riding a bicycle. We don’t really understand gravity, but we believe it. The key to using the reality of gravity as an ally while propelling ourselves forward to a destination of our choosing is to hold the tension.
In the spiritual realm, this balance comes through faith. Pursue wisdom. Ask God. Do so in wisdom and humility.
Faith, in the end, is not about us “figuring it out”, but about who we trust. In the midst of our pain, we are forced to wrestle with understanding. St. Anselm rightly said “I believe in order to understand.” All human understanding is founded on some sort of faith. Our ultimate foundation should be faith in Jesus. In the tension of our capacity and our incapacity, we are presented with the most important question of our lives – in whom do we trust?
______________
~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net
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The Blessings of Loyalty
~ A decision to serve and love often comes with sacrifice, but it is always rewarded by God.
Scripture Reading: Ruth 4:9-17
Ruth’s remarkable loyalty is what earned her a place in both the Bible and the lineage of Jesus (Matthew 1:1-17). Ruth is an example of faithfulness — she willingly adjusted her own life to meet the needs of her mother-in-law Naomi.
With no family left to care for her and no neighbors who shared her faith in God, Naomi found herself in a foreign land, far from the comfort of a familiar community. During that dark time, Ruth — her son’s widow — sacrificed everything to stay by Naomi’s side. The younger woman even chose to move to a foreign country and to worship Naomi’s God.
Ruth was undoubtedly aware of the risks involved in casting her lot with another woman in a male-dominated society, but she did so without hesitation. And her commitment did not end when they arrived in Israel. It was Ruth who kept the two women fed. And it was Ruth, under Naomi’s tutelage, who made an alliance with Boaz that secured their future.
Ruth sacrificed mightily for her mother-in-law, and as a result, God blessed her greatly. He loved her and gave her a husband, a home, and a child. Moreover, Ruth is counted among the ancestors of the Messiah, Jesus Christ. What an awesome testimony of the blessings bestowed on a loyal heart.
_________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/the-blessings-of-loyalty
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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
Grafted into God’s Family
"You, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others.” ~ Romans 11:17
Scripture Reading: Romans 11:11-24
During a visit with my father to his beloved Ecuador a few years ago, we visited the family farm where he grew up. I noticed a group of strange trees. My dad explained that when he was feeling mischievous as a boy, he would take a discarded branch from one fruit tree, make slits in a different kind of fruit tree, and tie the loose branch to the trunk like he saw the grownups do. His pranks went unnoticed until those trees started bearing different fruit than expected.
As my dad described the process of engrafting, I got a picture of what it means for us to be grafted into God’s family. I know my late father is in heaven because he was grafted into God’s family through faith in Jesus.
We can have the assurance of eventually being in heaven as well. The apostle Paul explained to the believers in Rome that God made a way for gentiles, or non-Jews, to be reconciled with Himself: “You, though a wild olive shoot, have been grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing sap from the olive root” (Romans 11:17). When we put our faith in Christ, we’re grafted in with Him and become part of God’s family. “If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit” (John 15:5).
Similar to engrafted trees, when we place our trust in Christ, we become a new creation and can bear much fruit.
~ by Nancy Gavilanes
Discover more about the fruits we can bear when we trust God.
___________________
Reflect & Pray:
• How does it feel to know you can be grafted into God’s family?
• How can you bear good fruit for Christ?
"Dear God, thank You for loving me and accepting me into Your family. Amen."
___________________
Scripture Insight:
In Romans 11, we read about gentiles being “grafted” into the family of God (vv. 17-24). Because of the Jewish people’s “transgression” — rejection of the gospel — “salvation has come to the Gentiles” (v. 11). Their rejection opened the way for gentiles to also receive God’s grace. That doesn’t mean that God has rejected the Jews. There will always be a believing remnant. And many have already placed their trust in Jesus the Messiah for forgiveness of sin. Paul says that the Jews would be envious of gentile believers enjoying God’s blessings. This would cause them to also desire these blessings and come to faith in Christ (see vv. 11, 14).
~ by Alyson Kieda
https://odb.org/2024/09/17/grafted-into-gods-family
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Responding to Conflict
~ When criticism comes your way, pause to ask for God's wisdom before replying.
Scripture Verse:
“A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but a person slow to anger calms strife.” ~ Proverbs 15:18
When conflict occurs, what should our response be? Turning to the Lord in prayer is always the best way to respond in a crisis. By doing so, we can ask Him to provide …
1. Spiritual discernment: God knows and perfectly understands the source of the problem — and He can enable us to comprehend it, too. With the Spirit’s assistance, we will gain insight into the situation.
2. A quiet spirit: Our human nature will want to react quickly so we can defend ourselves or stand up for what we think is right. But before we act, it’s important to deliberately focus our attention on God and experience the inner peace that He promises:
“I am leaving you with a gift — peace of mind and heart. And the peace I give is a gift the world cannot give. So don’t be troubled or afraid.” ~ John 14:27
3. Wisdom: The Lord told the disciples that the Holy Spirit would give them wise words to say (Luke 12:11-12). And He’ll do that for us as well. If we are tempted to speak hastily, we should ask the Spirit for guidance and the words to speak (Psalm 141:3).
God has called us to represent Him in every situation the same way Christ did — by depending on the heavenly Father. Next time someone speaks critically to you, focus your heart on God and let Him direct your response.
__________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/responding-to-conflict-2
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Lord Jesus! I Love You!!! 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
Confronting Conflict
~ Painful disagreements are a part of living in this world — how we respond matters.
Scripture Reading: Galatians 2:16-21
The Scriptures record many instances of conflict — between nations, among friends, and in families — and we see the same things today. While fighting, people can say harsh, unfair words. Their accusations often create turmoil and emotional pain. But the way we respond to such aggressiveness is determined by what we believe.
To start with, we should remind ourselves of two things:
• First, God has the power to work our painful times into something beneficial.
• And second, our caring heavenly Father always remains by our side. He understands what we’re experiencing and will walk with us through it.
God’s Word proclaims His sovereignty over nature (Psalm 135:6), government (Job 12:23), and mankind (Acts 17:25). When we believe in His sovereign rule, our perspective on hard times changes. Then, instead of responding with fear or resentment, we will turn to Him in prayer and ask for guidance.
In the world, conflict is inevitable. When something we’ve done is the source of the turmoil, we should apologize. If others are at fault, we should forgive. As Christ’s ambassadors, the way we respond really matters.
________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/confronting-conflict-2
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Out of The Storm
“Then the LORD spoke to Job out of the storm. He said: ‘Who is this that obscures My plans with words without knowledge? Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer Me.’” ~ Job 38:1-3
After all Job has been through, the Lord finally speaks. And he speaks "out of the storm".
For any of us who are hurting, who are experiencing loss or confusion or pain, we can relate to the story of Job. We can relate to unhelpful solutions from well-meaning friends trying to solve our problem. We can relate to uncertainty and angst.
The hope of pain is that if we can relate to Job’s circumstances and his suffering, perhaps we can relate to his hope.
In the midst of the storm, the LORD speaks. He calls down to us. Even if it produces conviction. Even if it is rhetorical. Even if it adds to the confusion. Even in the midst of all these things, there is comfort in the LORD’s voice. Truth in the turmoil. Stability in the storm.
Like an outstanding coach that is hardest on his best player, God uses difficulty to call Job to a higher place. This interaction with God does not make Job happy, or comfortable. This interaction with God causes Job to see God as he has never seen Him before. Through immense difficulty, a door opens to the greatest of treasures.
Job-like circumstances show up every day. We are threatened with pain and apathy and falsity. But in the midst of the storm, the LORD speaks.
_________________
~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net
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Confronting Goliaths
~ When God calls you to stand for Him, go forward with courage — the battle is the Lord's.
Scripture Reading: 1 Samuel 17:16-49
David’s short battle with Goliath was more than a fight between Israel and the Philistines. It was a defense of Jehovah’s name against those who doubted Him. As David pointed out, the only way a boy with a sling could defeat a giant warrior like Goliath was by the Lord’s hand. And that’s exactly what happened.
In facing Goliath, David showed real courage and faith. But we see that what drove him to face the giant was righteous indignation: “For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he has dared to defy the armies of the living God?” (1 Samuel 17:26). David believed that someone had to wipe away the reproach caused by Goliath’s insults. Since no one else would step forward, he volunteered to defend Yahweh’s name.
At one point or another, we also will find ourselves in a situation that challenges us to stand up for the Lord.
At such a time, will we listen to our fears and remain silent? Or, will we represent God’s name in the way for which He’s called and equipped us?
Our “smooth stones” (v. 40) are the truths from God’s Word. Whatever the outcome appears to be, the battle is the Lord’s, and He gives victory to the faithful.
_______________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/confronting-goliaths
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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
The Art of Waiting
“Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for Him.” ~ Psalm 37:7
Scripture admonishes us to wait on God. It goes against most every aspect of our current culture. If cell coverage causes our phones to take ten seconds to load, we feel terribly inconvenienced. We can’t stand to have to wait [to watch cat or dog videos].
We want to move, shake, get things done, take control, and achieve. The last thing we want to do is wait.
Yet waiting is a beautiful opportunity. It is commanded. It is a chance to pause, to worship, to trust, to exercise faith, the very same faith that fascinates angels.
Waiting allows us to confront and embrace our lack of control. It allows us to reflect on what is true, and real. It allows us to reassess our role, and God’s role, and make sure we are not sitting in the wrong chair, and trying to do God’s work of being the judge of the world.
Righteous waiting is an art. To be expectant yet involved; both hopeful and participative. The power and love of God is our strength, and waiting is an act of obedience.
A true perspective helps us toe the line between avoidance and patience. It can be difficult to discern between times when good stewardship means taking responsibility to act and times when good stewardship means waiting patiently for God to act. It can be difficult to move. And difficult to wait.
Waiting is not apathy. The subject of apathy is self. We are told to wait on a person, to wait on the LORD.
__________________
~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net
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Love 2 all in Jesus!! http://mobilesavior.com/
Colors of Hope
I will remember my covenant between me and you and all living creatures of every kind. Genesis 9:15
Scripture Reading: Genesis 9:11-17
On September 11, 2023 — the twenty-second anniversary of the attacks against the United States — a stunning double rainbow graced the skies above New York City. Home to the former Twin Towers, this city suffered the greatest losses in the attacks. More than two decades later, the double rainbow brought a sense of hope and healing to those who were there to see it. A video clip of the moment seemed to capture the rainbows emanating from the site of the World Trade Center itself.
Rainbows in the sky have brought an assurance of God’s faithfulness since the days of Noah. In the wake of God’s judgment of sin which resulted in unimaginable destruction, He set the colorful beacon as a visual reminder of “the everlasting covenant between [Himself] and all living creatures” (Genesis 9:16). After forty dark days of rain and months of flooding (Genesis 7:17-24), one can only imagine how welcome the rainbow — “the sign of the covenant” — must have been to Noah and his family. It was a reminder of God’s faithfulness that “never again will there be a flood to destroy the earth” (v. 11).
When we face dark days and tragic losses — whether due to natural disaster, physical or emotional pain, or the plight of disease — let’s look to God for hope in the midst of it. Even if we don’t catch a glimpse of His rainbow in those moments, we can be assured of His faithfulness to His promises.
~ By Kirsten Holmberg
__________________
Reflect & Pray:
• How has God revealed His presence to you during difficult seasons of life?
• Who might need to hear your story today?
"Father God, please help me to see You in the midst of my struggles today. Amen."
__________________
Scripture Insight:
In the Noahic covenant, God made an unconditional, eternal covenant — or promise — with all mankind and all living creatures to never again destroy the earth and all life by a flood (Genesis 9:9-11). To seal this covenant, God “set His rainbow in the clouds” (v. 13) as a visible symbol of His promise. The Hebrew word for rainbow, “qesheth", is also translated “bow” — a weapon. One commentator notes: “In what is a radical reinterpretation of divine power, the bow ceases to function as a sign of God’s militancy and begins to function as a sign of God’s grace. A rainbow is a bow without an arrow.” While the rainbow gives us great encouragement today, assuring us of God’s mercy and grace, God actually set the rainbow as a reminder to Himself of His “everlasting covenant” with “all living creatures of every kind on the earth” (v. 16).
~ by K. T. Sim
https://odb.org/2024/09/11/colors-of-hope
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Hindsight Is Clearer
"We know that God works together in all things for the ultimate good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose.” ~ Romans 8:28
The ability to see, with both eyes, an object clearly from twenty feet away is referred to as 20/20 vision. (In Europe, it is called 6/6 since they use a distance of six meters instead of twenty feet.) While not everyone has 20/20 vision, it is often said that hindsight is always 20/20. That is, we may not be able to see everything clearly as it happens, but after the fact we can see things much more clearly.
While hindsight is not always perfect, from a biblical perspective it means that we sometimes have to wait to see what God’s purpose was in allowing something to happen. There are certainly enough biblical examples to prove that premise. Job, Joseph, David, Daniel, Esther, Paul, and others were puzzled at what God allowed to happen in their lives — but soon came to see God’s hand at work. Especially Esther who saved the Jewish people from genocide in Persia.
When God allows circumstances in your life, the purpose of which is not clear, remember the examples and promises of Scripture: “All things work together for ultimate good.”
__________________
~ by David Jeremiah (https://www.davidjeremiah.org)
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For those of us that are born-again believers...we understand the fact that we have a spirit and a soul that are going to live forever. And in that spirit and soul...is who we are as a person...our character...our personality...emotions...the way we think...everything about us consist in that spirit and soul. And that of course lives in this human body...yes...this human body is just a vessel carrying us around as we walk this Earthly path here on planet Earth. And when the human body dies that spirit and soul is going to leave this vessel and step foot into eternity in one of two places...Heaven or Hell. And for those of us that are born-again believers we have that awesome promise from Jesus...that he has gone to prepare a place for us in heaven...paradise! But what i really want to talk about this morning is as a person... being perfect. I actually did a quick search and found that in at least five scriptures...that i posted...we are told to be perfect. Now...we humans know theres no way we can be perfect...there was only one perfect human in all of creation and all of time...and of course that was Jesus...who was both fully man and fully God and still is God. And im not speaking for God but im pretty sure God also knows that we cant be perfect thats why he sent Jesus to die in body and pay our sin debt in full...yet...He tells us to be perfect..so..why is that? My thought is this...everyday God wants to mold us more and more into the likeness of Jesus...and...as a human living in this earthly vessel..our goal every day...even though we will never achieve it...we should be striving for perfection. And what is perfection. Could it be as simple as letting Jesus live his life through us...think about it.
I Have No Regrets About My Past...My Past Is Who I Am Today...Born Again!
Rick j Sane
Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Matthew 5:48
Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
Matthew 19:21
Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.
2 Corinthians 7:1
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
Romans 12:1-2
And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
James 1:4
Do You Need a Breakthrough?
“As I was praying, Gabriel, whom I had seen in the earlier vision, came to me in my extreme weariness, about the time of the evening offering. He explained to me, “Daniel, I have come here to give you insight and understanding.’” ~ Daniel 9:21-22
There are times in our lives when we simply need a breakthrough from God. Maybe you need a new job or a breakthrough in your finances, direction on a big business deal, or maybe physical healing from an illness. Sometimes we need to hear from God directly for situations in our lives.
Daniel was seeking God to understand why the nation had been in captivity for 70 years. He began to fast and pray. At the end of this time an angel of the Lord appeared to him. It is clear the angel came to Daniel because of his fasting and prayer and his seeking God for answers.
The prophet Jeremiah says, “You will seek Me and find Me when you seek Me with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13). The problem with most of us is we are unwilling to seek God for the answers. Seeking God requires an intentional focus that may require prayer and fasting.
Bill Bright, the founder of Campus Crusade for Christ said, “I believe the power of fasting as it relates to prayer is the spiritual atomic bomb that our Lord has given us to destroy the strongholds of evil and usher in a great revival and spiritual harvest around the world. The longer I fasted, the more I sensed the presence of the Lord. The Holy Spirit refreshed my soul and spirit, and I experienced the joy of the Lord as seldom before. Biblical truths leaped at me from the pages of God's Word. My faith soared as I humbled myself and cried out to God and rejoiced in His presence.”
Do you need a breakthrough? Consider committing to a time of fasting and prayer.
___________________
~ by Os Hillman, TGIF (Today God Is First)
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United at Last
"All my springs [source of joy] are in You.” ~ Psalm 87:7
Scripture Reading: Psalm 87
In 1960, Otto Preminger provoked controversy with his movie Exodus. Based on Leon Uris’ novel, it provides a fictional account of Jewish refugees emigrating to Palestine after World War II. The film concludes with the bodies of a young European-Jewish girl and an Arab man, both murder victims, buried in the same grave in what would soon be the nation of Israel.
Preminger leaves the conclusion to us:
• Is this a metaphor for despair, a dream forever buried?
• Or is it a symbol of hope, as two peoples with a history of hatred and hostilities come together — in death and in life?
Perhaps the sons of Korah, credited with writing Psalm 87, would take the latter view of this scene.
They anticipated a peace we still await. Of Jerusalem, they wrote, “Glorious things are said of you, city of God” (v. 3). They sang of a day when nations — all with a history of warring against the Jewish people — will come together to acknowledge the one true God: Rahab (Egypt), Babylon, the Philistines, Tyre, Cush (v. 4). All will be drawn to Jerusalem, and to God.
The conclusion of the psalm is celebratory. People in Jerusalem will sing, “All my fountains [springs] are in You” (v. 7). Who are they singing of? The One who is the Living Water, the Source of all life (John 4:14).
Jesus is the only one who can bring lasting peace and unity.
~ By Tim Gustafson
__________________
Reflect & Pray:
• What conflicts, both global and personal, cause you distress?
• How will you trust God to bring about His peace?
"I pray, Father, for the peace and unity of all people as they’re drawn to Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen"
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Scripture Insight:
The word Zion is mentioned more than 150 times in the Bible. It’s used literally to refer to Jerusalem (city of David/city of God) and spiritually to refer to God’s heavenly kingdom (see Hebrews 12:22-24). It occurs mostly in Old Testament prophetic literature (about fifty times in Isaiah) and the Psalms (about forty times). The first reference is, in a way, a blueprint for future usage: “David captured the fortress of Zion — which is the City of David” (2 Samuel 5:7). The ancient fortress, previously held by Jebusites/Canaanites, was taken by David and his soldiers. Zion was a significant place occupied by a significant person (God’s anointed) who would rule over a significant people (God’s chosen people).
Psalm 132:13-14 beautifully captures the importance of Zion:
“The Lord has chosen Zion, He has desired it for His dwelling, saying, ‘This is My resting place for ever and ever; here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it.’”
~ by Arthur Jackson
https://odb.org/2024/09/08/united-at-last
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Strange Company
“So they said to each other, “Weren’t our hearts ablaze within us while He was talking with us on the road and explaining the Scriptures to us?”” ~ Luke 24:32
The road to Emmaus was not particularly dangerous. It was not hard or scary. The journey was pretty straightforward. Or so it seemed. Until a stranger asked to join their company.
What ensued began as an ordinary conversation about current events. Instead of the weather, they discussed the news. The stranger had an interesting twist on recent events they had not considered.
They could have ignored the stranger. Who is he that we ought to listen anyway?
But they didn’t ignore. They listened. As they listened their hearts burned. It turns out the stranger was Jesus.
The Emmaus company got a great blessing because they were ready to listen during a routine activity.
How many times, and in how many ways is Jesus speaking to us in ways not readily visible?
• Perhaps through others.
• Through circumstances.
• Through nature, or through the still small voice within.
Practicing listening to God during routine, daily activities aligns everything we do with genuine purpose, the truest meaning of our lives.
There is nothing more routine than walking on a familiar road. Jesus is there. If we look to circumstances and events for fulfillment, they will disappoint. Boredom or disillusionment are the likely outcome.
If we look for Jesus along the familiar road, our hearts will be filled.
_______________
~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net
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How to End Well
~ In every season of life, God calls us to serve others.
Scripture Reading: Numbers 14:17-24
It’s easy to become so focused on someone or something that we’re unable to hear the Lord. In those times, one of God’s most effective methods of getting our attention is through disappointments. But oh, how we dislike this approach!
Disappointment is one of the ways the Lord spoke dramatically to the nation of Israel. In Numbers 13, He directed His people into the Promised Land. However, fear of the inhabitants so invaded their hearts that they refused to enter. As a result, God said the Israelites who were disrespectful would “by no means see the land” (Numbers 14:23). And the rest would have to wait 40 years.
The postponement was so disheartening that they decided to change their minds. Sadly, it was too late, and the people were distraught with grief. At that moment, do you think God had their attention? Absolutely. The next time He gave Israel a command, don’t you imagine they listened a bit more intently?
We are hesitant to believe that our loving Father could be responsible for our frustrations. Yet God is perfectly willing to use disappointments to realign our thoughts and plans with His. Consider the difficulties you have faced in your own life — and whether the Lord might have been trying to say something in the midst of them.
__________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/how-to-end-well
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Buyer's Remorse
"I greatly rejoice in the Lord, I exult in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation and wrapped me in a robe of righteousness, as a groom wears a turban and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.” ~ Isaiah 61:10
Have you ever experienced buyer's remorse? I have. Just prior to making a purchase, I feel the surge of excitement that comes with getting something new. After buying the item, however, a wave of remorse sometimes crashes over me. Did I really need this? Should I have spent the money?
In Genesis 3, we find the first record of a buyer's remorse. The whole thing began with the crafty serpent and his sales pitch. He persuaded Eve to doubt God's Word (v. 1). He then capitalized on her uncertainty by casting doubt on God's character (v. 4-5). He promised that her eyes would "be opened" and she would become "like God" (v. 5).
So Eve ate. Adam ate. And sin entered the world. But the first man and woman got more than they bargained for. Their eyes were opened all right, but they didn't become like God. In fact, their first act was to hide from God (w.7-8).
Sin has dire consequences. It always keeps us from God's best. But God in His mercy and grace clothed Adam and Eve in garments made from animal skins (v. 21) - foreshadowing what Jesus Christ would do for us by dying on the cross for our sins. His blood was shed so that we might be clothed with His righteousness - with no remorse!
__________________
~ published by: The Daily Encourager
To receive The Daily Encourager FREE each weekday, click on the following link: http://go.netatlantic.com/read/all_forums/subscribe?name=thedailyencourager
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True Food
“Yes, He [God] humbled you by letting you go hungry and then feeding you with manna, a food previously unknown to you and your ancestors. He did it to teach you that people do not live by bread alone; rather, we live by every Word that comes from the mouth of the LORD.” ~ Deuteronomy 8:3
When Jesus was tempted by Satan, He answered each of the three tests with a quote from the Bible. In each case, from the book of Deuteronomy, the book of the Bible that explains Israel’s time in the wilderness, and prepares them to enter the Promised Land. When tempted to use His power to turn stones to bread to satisfy his hunger, Jesus replied “Man does not live by bread alone, but by every Word of God.”
This passage is taken from Moses’ speech to the people, looking back over a forty-year journey in the wilderness, and explaining God’s purposes in the journey. God wanted the people to learn a lesson, the lesson that spiritual food is our truest and most important source of sustenance. And the core spiritual food is the Word of God.
No matter what life throws our way, we are on an epic journey through the wilderness that is this world. And it will be over before we expect. The Lord is speaking to us every day in every circumstance, imploring us to make the most of our trek. To be healthy on the journey, we need sustenance, and God’s Word is our truest source.
Sometimes it is easy to hear His voice and obey and sometimes it is difficult. But the truth remains, and God’s word is truth. God is available in every situation. When we hunger, let’s remember to turn to the true source to be filled, God’s Word.
_________________
~ published by: Yellow Balloons
https://yellowballoons.net
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Building Trust When Faith Is Unsteady
~ If believing God is difficult in this season of your life, draw closer to Him for the help you need.
Scripture Reading: Mark 9:21-24
Since trust in God is foundational for Christians, the consequences of wavering faith can be far-reaching. Sometimes, after praying for direction, we might receive an answer that leads us to think, I can’t do that. So, instead of obeying and asking God to strengthen our faith, we may choose to postpone or compromise our obedience.
But partial obedience is actually disobedience, and when our faith falters, it can result in poor choices that prove costly. For example, the Israelites wandered 40 years in the desert because the nation allowed unbelief to overtake their faith. Their wavering trust made them miss out on God’s intended blessings.
When we are spiritually unsteady, we can easily be shaken by little things. Instead of standing firm, we may find our confidence eroding. Then we become less willing to take a risk when God asks us to do so. Rather than acting with certainty, we question and doubt what we are hearing from the Lord. We may also find joy diminishing because our wavering faith has led us away from God’s will (Hebrews 10:23). The inner peace that we once enjoyed evaporates as our faith weakens.
No matter how unsteady our faith, God invites us to draw near so He can strengthen our trust in Him. When He does, accept His invitation and give Him the glory.
__________________
~ published by: In Touch Ministries
https://www.intouch.org/read/daily-devotions/building-trust-when-faith-is-unsteady
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Theres an ole saying..."If folks would spend more time minding the dirt on their own porch they wouldnt have so much time to worry about the dirt on their neighbors porch." When we are talking about other folks in a negative or less than desirable way...what we are doing is looking down our nose to some degree thinking we are better than they are. Yes...we have come to the conclusion that our way of living life and our way of doing things is the right way so why isnt everybody doing it that way? You see...finding fault in others..."backbiting"..(to speak unfavorably or slanderously of a person who is not present)..."gossip"...(idle talk or rumor about another person)..."haughty eyes" (setting oneself above others)...these three words are from scripture..IT's SIN!...Folks are really good as seeing themselves as better than those they criticize...but...in reality they are as precious in the Lords sight as we are! So why outside of our concern whether or not a person knows Jesus...should we be trying to dictate how others should live? Who are we to talk about others because they only got a 12th grade education? Who are we to talk about folks because they cant afford a better car...a better house...better clothes. Who are we to look down on others because they didnt get the same opportunities in life as others got? Heck...for that matter if what other people are doing is NOT adversely affecting our life or others lives...who are we to say they need to change anything? Adults are just as bad at bullying as kids! Now look...im NOT on the bandwagon of "Judge not least ye be judged"...lets look at that in the real context...thru the discernment of the Holy Spirit we can judge others to recognize those wolves in sheep clothing...to be aware of those that might harm us or help us fall or fail..to recognize who and what they are by their fruits...we judge we just dont condemn! It goes something like this...God gave everyone a free will to choose to go to heaven or to go to hell and that really is the most important aspect of life! Its our choice. And we as lowly humans are going to sit down here in the presence of God and talk about others because we dont like the way they are? REALLY! It irritates me to no end when i hear someone talking about another person! I wonder what God thinks when He hears it? Remember...God created everyone...Everyone didnt get the same chances in life as others and not everyone had a warm and fuzzy childhood and life. So please people...let us get over our self-righteous selves and concern ourselves with telling folks about Jesus! Remember John 3:17...if Jesus did not come to condemn people...who are we to condemn others! I was a screwed up mess from age 15 to 40...and ill brag on myself a little....i dont think i turned out to bad...why...because i met a man named Jesus! We like to quote hate the sin love the sinner...do we mean that? When i went to elementary school we were taught the "Golden Rule" which is also scripture...what if...people...actually lived this way....wow...what a different world it might be!
In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you,
Matthew 7:12
I Have No Regrets About My Past...My Past Is Who I Am Today...Born Again!
Rick j Sane
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.
Ephesians 4:29-32
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