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01-17-2009, 06:00 PM
Timothy Commended
19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be encouraged when I know your state. 20 For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state. 21 For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus. 22 But you know his proven character, that as a son with his father he served with me in the gospel. 23 Therefore I hope to send him at once, as soon as I see how it goes with me. 24 But I trust in the Lord that I myself shall also come shortly. Philippians 2
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I Am with thee
Lo, I am with thee, night and day, through thick and storm, in times of happiness and in times of sadness, I am with thee.
I will never leave you nor forsake you.
My Spirit is ever with you. Thus sayeth The Lord.
Brethren, you are never alone for God is always with you.
He knows when you are awake and He knows when you are sleeping.
His Spirit watches over you like a loving mother watches over her little children and like a good shepherd who diligently watches over his flock.
He is able to make provision for all your needs.
There is no pit so deep that He cannot lift you out of it nor is there any problems so extreme or perplexing that He can not quickly remove them.
For all power in heaven and in the earth has been given unto Jesus Christ our Lord.
With God nothing is impossible.
Amen.
©01/18/2001 Jim Welch
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United in Christ, Like-minded in Purpose
I appeal to you brothers, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought (1 Cor. 1:10).
God has called us to be like minded, after the likeness of the mind of Christ; and in this that we might have unity and not division. So why then do we not only debate issues but have let them divide us, and continue to do so. Even as the early Church did, so do we today. For in Paul's time the church was divided; some saying they were of Paul, and some of Apollos, and some of Cephas, and some of Christ. To which Paul responded "Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?" (1 Cor. 1:12-13) And yet, have we not done the same today? For some say, I am Baptist; and some I am Methodist; and some I am Pentecostal; and some I am Catholic. To which the response remains, "Is Christ divided?" Is it God's determination that we divide ourselves in such a way as to join with those with whom we can agree? Or was it instead His intentions that we allow our differences to draw us together, to strengthen us, and to balance us? For as it is, we have divided the Body of Christ, placing an arm here, and a leg there. Each detached as though it were able to maintain self sufficiency. For we are not one within the Baptist, or one within the Catholic, or Presbyterian, or Methodist. But we are all one within the Body, even the Body of Christ.
Keep in mind that each group's truth within these issues is not founded lightly. They have searched and researched the scriptures and can support their individual beliefs with scripture. Not to accept anything another part of Christ's body believes is to be arrogant; and to ignore their thoughts and insights completely is simply ignorant. Holding to a denominational viewpoint simply because it is ones own is foolish, and stems from pride, and not from God. Their is no one denomination, group or individual that holds all truth, it is God's alone.
However, we must not agree to disagree, but agree that one day we can agree. Not that we might all compromise the Truth, but that we might discover it as a whole. And not that it should be one groups truth over another, but that we might be willing to put aside our individual truth, and embrace God's Truth in unity of heart and likeness of mind. Knowing the day will come when our thinking will come into alignment with one another's, as it becomes in alignment with God's.
So we then should draw together as one Body, enabling the Body to function as a whole, allowing each part to function within the Body according to it's design. Some parts for prophesy, some for tongues, some for healing, some for teaching, some for serving, some for administration, some for giving, and all for the Head of the Body, which is Christ. Working together as one in proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ. For the cause and the needs and the purpose of the whole far outweigh those of the individuals. Therefore, do not continue in division as to cripple the Body of Christ, but come together and serve His purpose as one.
Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others (Rom. 12:4-5).
Day by Day Devotionals
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Read Exodus 2 -- 4 http://www.studylight.org/desk/?l=en&query=ex+2-ex+4§ion=0&translation=kjv&oq=
Highlights In Today's Reading:
Moses was the distinguished lawgiver and a type of Christ. Both were endangered in infancy. Both were deliverers and mediators.
After the death of Joseph, the once-privileged Israelites were reduced to bitter slavery. The severity of their oppression became obvious when Pharaoh charged all his people, saying, Every (Israelite) son that is born ye shall cast into the river (1:22). It may have appeared that God had forsaken His people. But, centuries earlier, God had foretold their slavery to Abraham, saying: Know of a surety that thy seed shall be a stranger in a land that is not theirs, and shall serve them; and they shall afflict them four hundred years; And . . . afterward shall they come out with great substance (Gen. 15:13-14).
This promise of deliverance began to be fulfilled when Amram's wife . . . Jochebed, the daughter of Levi (Num. 26:59) bare a son. . . . And when she could not longer hide him (from Pharaoh's death decree), she took for him an ark . . . and put the child therein; and she laid it in the flags by the river's brink (Ex. 2:2-3).
This is an example of how a mother's faith saved the child who was to become the great lawgiver.
Through the miracles God said He would perform through Moses (4:30), the people were convinced that God would use him to lead them to the promised land.
No change had yet actually taken place in their condition. They had only been assured by Moses and Aaron that God had not forgotten them during their four hundred years. Although their suffering was still just as intense, they bowed their heads and worshipped (4:31). To the unbelieving heart this worship would seem presumptuous, for the words were spoken by Aaron after centuries of slavery in Egypt.
Some Christians are unwilling to worship God because they assume God has forgotten them in their trial and left them in misery. When we are suffering hardships, we should not lose sight of the God of Abraham and Moses. When impossible situations develop, trust Him to fulfill His promises.
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? . . . Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us (Rom. 8:35-39).
Thought for Today:
When situations seem hopeless, it is more than comforting to remember that our God cares about us and knows how to deliver us (II Pet. 2:9).
Christ Revealed:
As the I AM THAT I AM who commissioned Moses (Ex. 3:13-14; compare Heb. 13:8). Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily (Truly, truly), I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am (John 8:58).
Word Studies:
2:3 flags = reeds; 2:18 Reuel = Jethro; 2:23 bondage = severe oppression; 2:25 had respect unto = was concerned about; 3:18 hearken = believe and obey; 3:22 spoil = take the best of their valuables; 4:10 slow tongue = not qualified; 4:16 to thee instead of a mouth = your spokesman.
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Amazing Love
1 John 4:10
This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.
God is Love
Another really important attribute of God is His love. No human being can love us as much as God does. His love for us reaches to the farthest corner of the universe. We can't begin to imagine how great it is. We can understand it in only one way. We have to think about how much love it took for God to have Jesus die for our sins on the cross.
God’s love for us goes way beyond the natural love a good father has for his children. The fact is, God loves us even when we are rebelling against every one of his commands. Every person who has been born since Adam sinned has inherited a sin nature that makes sin more attractive to him or her than goodness. You can observe this fact in action next time you hang out with your friends. Are you ever called names because you won’t do something good or right? Not likely. But, friends and classmates will tease you and call you names for not joining them in an activity that is wrong or hurtful. It’s way harder to do the right thing than it is to follow the crowd into sin.
Because of our natural attraction to sin, we are not God’s friends, but his enemies. However, he loved us so much that he sacrificed, not his own life, but the life of his son. That is way harder. Paul puts it this way in Romans 5:7-8. “Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
God loved us so much that he sent Jesus to die for our sins. Every once in a while I hear a story about a father who jumps into Lake Powell to save his child who has fallen into the water. Sometimes the father is successful. Other times he's not. Sometimes, someone else in the boat rescues the child, but the father dies. I am always amazed at how much a father will sacrifice for his child.
If God loves us so much that he gave his only son to save us, he will absolutely care for us in every possible way. He will make sure we have what we need to grow and mature, both physically and spiritually. He will keep us safe. He will never let anything come into our lives that would hurt us in our relationship with him.
The fact of God’s love makes it possible for us to have peace even when things aren’t going like we want them to. God is all-powerful and he loves us perfectly and without any expectations. He never allows us to suffer unless it fulfills a part of His great plan for our lives. He uses both the good and bad things of our lives to make us mature and spiritually beautiful. What a treasure we have in the promise God gave us in John 3:16! “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Today’s Prayer:
Loving Father God, I surely am glad that I don’t have to earn your love by being good. I’d never make it. Thank you for loving me just the way I am. Thank you, too, for using everything in my life to make me more like Jesus. Most of all, thank you for giving Jesus to die for me so I could know you and live with you forever.
Written by Martha E Menne
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1 Minute Daily Devotions
January 18, 2009
Are You Sure That's What It Says in the Bible?
"'You will not surely die,' the serpent said to the woman. 'For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.'" - Genesis 3:4
There are a lot of religious fanatics out there spouting strange doctrine. At first, they may actually sound reasonable, because they quote from the Bible. But the problem is, these false prophets will take a verse out of context and base their whole theology around it. While this is often done unintentionally, there are some that will twist a few words on purpose, resulting in an interpretation bearing no resemblance, whatsoever, to God's actual message.
This is an effective technique that the devil has mastered well. Think about the consequences for mankind when the devil twisted God's words in the Garden of Eden! And remember how Satan tried to tempt Jesus in the beginning of His ministry? He twisted the word of God just a little bit, making it seem that He was saying the exact opposite of the actual meaning.
How can you defend this prostitution of God's word? Always study Scripture in light of Scripture. Study the Old Testament in light of the New Testament. Study the Gospels in light of the Epistles, so that you can have the theological and doctrinal understanding of the life of Christ, why He came, what He's all about. You want to study a verse in the context of the chapter, and in the context of the book. The more you study the Bible, the easier it will be to defend yourself from false - or ignorant - prophets.
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New Age Philosophy
Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 18:9-13; Leviticus 19:26,31.
There is great interest today in the esoteric philosophies collectively known as the New Age Movement - transchanneling, ESP, visualization, out-of-the-body experiences, and so forth. There is really nothing new about these practices, except perhaps new names for them. They are the same occult practices that God forbade Israel to engage in long ago: divination, sorcery, interpreting of omens, witchcraft, casting of spells, magic arts, mediums or spiritism. These practices are expressly forbidden by the Bible and are detestable to the Lord. They will not go unpunished. The so-called New Age Movement will not move you into new heights of mental or spiritual prowess, but into the wrath and fury of God.
Moment of Meditation: There is no "hidden wisdom" as the New Age adherents claim, for God has openly revealed, to those who trust in Him, the mysteries of His wisdom in our Lord, Christ Jesus.
A Talk with Jesus: Lord, guard my heart from the old seductions of Satan that are now called new. Amen.
For Further Study: Leviticus 20:6,27; Job 11:7-9; Isaiah 45:3; Ezekiel 13:6-9,20-23; Daniel 2:27-30; 4:7,9,18; Ephesians 3:3-9; 6:19; Colossians 1:25-27; 2:2-3; Revelation 21:8; 22:15.
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Doctrine
Daily Devotional for January 18
2 Timothy 3:16 "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."
Doctrine is the categorical thinking with God's thoughts on every given subject in the Word of God. What and how God thinks - not what we think.
The Greek word for doctrine is "didaskalia". Titus 2:1 says, "But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine" (didaskalia).
Ephesians 5:18 "but be filled with the Spirit" is a present imperative - a command to do something in the future and involves continuous action. In every thought, every word, and every action I am to be filled with the Spirit. Moment by moment my thoughts should be on the word of God... God's thoughts in categories.
Learn doctrines in categories and you will have a greater defense against the devil and his wiles.
Bible References (KJV)
Ephesians 5:18 "And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit"
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The Purpose Of Marriage
January 18th
READ: Mark 10:1-12
"For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh." So they are no longer two, but one (Mark 10:7-8).
There are a great many implications in this statement. First, you recognize that it does away with all such notions as "homosexual marriages." There are no such things. These pathetic misrepresentations are but a poignant commentary upon the twisted, distorted ideas that prevail in society today. It takes a man and a woman to be married. Marriage is one man and one woman, and it always has been, from the beginning.
But what our Lord makes clear is that this relationship is the highest relationship possible in life. It takes priority over all others. Closer even than the tie of blood is that of marriage, in the mind and heart of God. It is a closer relationship than with any children who follow. People are to become husbands and wives before they become fathers and mothers. This indicates a priority of relationship. A man is closer to his wife, and a wife to her husband, than they will ever be to their children. Though we may not feel that way, nevertheless, it is the truth.
What, then, is the purpose in marriage? It is to become one. This is what marriages are for. Two people who are disparate, distinct, and different individuals, with different personalities, different gifts, blending their lives together so that through the process of the years they become one flesh--that is what marriage is. It is not something that happens instantaneously when you get married. The wedding service does not make you one. The first act of sex after marriage does not make you one. It begins the process, but it does not finish it. It takes the whole marriage to accomplish this. Marriage is the process of two people becoming one.
Therefore man and woman are not to live together as roommates. Marriage is not going your separate ways and having your separate careers and merely sharing a house and a bed together. Nor are they to split up over every problem or difficulty that arises between them; they are to work them out. They are not to separate; they are to choose to be together, to spend the rest of their lives together, in order that they might merge their lives together. Therefore they stop being rivals and start to become partners. A successful marriage, therefore, is not one without problems; it is one where the problems are being worked out, where the husband and wife do not split but stick together, face up to their problems, discover the hardness of heart that is there, and learn how God can soften it. In other words, it is a process, not a single production. It is a pilgrimage, not a six weeks' performance. It is intended to be a public portrayal, not a private predicament. It is a lifelong contract, not a renegotiable franchise, as many presume today.
Thank You for these plain and clear words that help me understand what is involved when we choose a wife or husband and what Your purpose is in it. Help me to walk in these ways.
This daily devotion was inspired by one of Ray's sermons
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An Obedient Son to Earthly
Parents
And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself. Phil. 2:8.
How great must be the humiliation of the Son of God, that He should live in the despised and wicked town of Nazareth. The most holy place upon earth would have been greatly honored by the presence of the world's Redeemer a single year. The palaces of kings would have been exalted to receive Christ as a guest. But the Redeemer of the world passed by the courts of royalty and made His home in a humble mountain village for 30 years, thus conferring distinction upon despised Nazareth.
The Redeemer of the world passed up and down the hills and mountains, from the great plain to the mountain valley. He enjoyed nature's beautiful scenery. He was delighted with the fields glowing with the beautiful flowers, and in listening to the birds of the air, and uniting His voice with them in their happy songs of praise. The groves and mountains were His places of retreat for prayer, and frequently whole nights were spent in communion with His Father.. . .
Notwithstanding the sacred mission of Christ, His exalted relationship with God, of which He was fully aware, He was not above performing the practical duties of life. He was the Creator of the world, and yet He acknowledged His obligation to His earthly parents, and at the call of duty, in compliance with the wishes of His parents, He returned with them from Jerusalem after the Passover, and was subject unto them.
He submitted to restraints of parental authority, and acknowledged the obligations of a son, a brother, friend, and citizen. He discharged His duties to His earthly parents with respectful courtesy. He was the Majesty of heaven. He had been the great commander in heaven. Angels loved to do His bidding. And now He was a willing servant, a cheerful, obedient son.
Jesus was not turned aside by any influence from the faithful service expected of a son. He did not aim to do anything remarkable to distinguish Himself from other youth, or to proclaim His heavenly birth. Even His friends and relatives, in all the years that Christ's life was passed among them, saw no special marks of His divinity. Christ was sedate, self-denying, gentle, cheerful, kind, and ever obedient. He avoided display, but was firm as a rock to principle. . . .
In the little notice given of His childhood and youthful life is an example for parents as well as children, that the more quiet and unnoticed the period of childhood and youth is passed, and the more natural and free from artificial excitement, the more safe will it be for the children, and the more favorable for the formation of a character of purity, natural simplicity, and true moral worth (Youth's Instructor, February 1873).
From Lift Him Up - Page 24
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THE DAILY REPRIEVE
STRENGTH FROM WEAKNESS
“Just to the extent that we do as we think He would have us, and humbly rely on Him, does He enable us to match calamity with serenity.” – Alcoholics Anonymous, page 68
"My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness." - 2 Corinthians 12:9
For what it’s worth: Who could have ever believed it? Certainly, not I. The agony of my alcoholic, diseased years has turned out to be a blessing. Actually, that is true for every suffering I have ever experienced. I wish I cooperated better with the Good Lord during these times, but when I am hurting, it is difficult to be willing to do anything except relieve the pain. But God understands. He carries me through the tough time, reminding me that He will never allow me to suffer anything more than what He and I can handle together. Although, it seems to me that it has came way too close at times. But every time, somehow, someway - He can really be creative - my Heavenly Father not only turns the experience into a blessing, He grows me more strength from it and helps others with my experience.
God bless you!
Joe W.
19 But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy to you shortly, that I also may be encouraged when I know your state. 20 For I have no one like-minded, who will sincerely care for your state. 21 For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus. 22 But you know his proven character, that as a son with his father he served with me in the gospel. 23 Therefore I hope to send him at once, as soon as I see how it goes with me. 24 But I trust in the Lord that I myself shall also come shortly. Philippians 2
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I Am with thee
Lo, I am with thee, night and day, through thick and storm, in times of happiness and in times of sadness, I am with thee.
I will never leave you nor forsake you.
My Spirit is ever with you. Thus sayeth The Lord.
Brethren, you are never alone for God is always with you.
He knows when you are awake and He knows when you are sleeping.
His Spirit watches over you like a loving mother watches over her little children and like a good shepherd who diligently watches over his flock.
He is able to make provision for all your needs.
There is no pit so deep that He cannot lift you out of it nor is there any problems so extreme or perplexing that He can not quickly remove them.
For all power in heaven and in the earth has been given unto Jesus Christ our Lord.
With God nothing is impossible.
Amen.
©01/18/2001 Jim Welch
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United in Christ, Like-minded in Purpose
I appeal to you brothers, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought (1 Cor. 1:10).
God has called us to be like minded, after the likeness of the mind of Christ; and in this that we might have unity and not division. So why then do we not only debate issues but have let them divide us, and continue to do so. Even as the early Church did, so do we today. For in Paul's time the church was divided; some saying they were of Paul, and some of Apollos, and some of Cephas, and some of Christ. To which Paul responded "Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul?" (1 Cor. 1:12-13) And yet, have we not done the same today? For some say, I am Baptist; and some I am Methodist; and some I am Pentecostal; and some I am Catholic. To which the response remains, "Is Christ divided?" Is it God's determination that we divide ourselves in such a way as to join with those with whom we can agree? Or was it instead His intentions that we allow our differences to draw us together, to strengthen us, and to balance us? For as it is, we have divided the Body of Christ, placing an arm here, and a leg there. Each detached as though it were able to maintain self sufficiency. For we are not one within the Baptist, or one within the Catholic, or Presbyterian, or Methodist. But we are all one within the Body, even the Body of Christ.
Keep in mind that each group's truth within these issues is not founded lightly. They have searched and researched the scriptures and can support their individual beliefs with scripture. Not to accept anything another part of Christ's body believes is to be arrogant; and to ignore their thoughts and insights completely is simply ignorant. Holding to a denominational viewpoint simply because it is ones own is foolish, and stems from pride, and not from God. Their is no one denomination, group or individual that holds all truth, it is God's alone.
However, we must not agree to disagree, but agree that one day we can agree. Not that we might all compromise the Truth, but that we might discover it as a whole. And not that it should be one groups truth over another, but that we might be willing to put aside our individual truth, and embrace God's Truth in unity of heart and likeness of mind. Knowing the day will come when our thinking will come into alignment with one another's, as it becomes in alignment with God's.
So we then should draw together as one Body, enabling the Body to function as a whole, allowing each part to function within the Body according to it's design. Some parts for prophesy, some for tongues, some for healing, some for teaching, some for serving, some for administration, some for giving, and all for the Head of the Body, which is Christ. Working together as one in proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ. For the cause and the needs and the purpose of the whole far outweigh those of the individuals. Therefore, do not continue in division as to cripple the Body of Christ, but come together and serve His purpose as one.
Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others (Rom. 12:4-5).
Day by Day Devotionals
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Read Exodus 2 -- 4 http://www.studylight.org/desk/?l=en&query=ex+2-ex+4§ion=0&translation=kjv&oq=
Highlights In Today's Reading:
Moses was the distinguished lawgiver and a type of Christ. Both were endangered in infancy. Both were deliverers and mediators.
After the death of Joseph, the once-privileged Israelites were reduced to bitter slavery. The severity of their oppression became obvious when Pharaoh charged all his people, saying, Every (Israelite) son that is born ye shall cast into the river (1:22). It may have appeared that God had forsaken His people. But, centuries earlier, God had foretold their slavery to Abraham, saying: Know of a surety that thy seed shall be a stranger in a land that is not theirs, and shall serve them; and they shall afflict them four hundred years; And . . . afterward shall they come out with great substance (Gen. 15:13-14).
This promise of deliverance began to be fulfilled when Amram's wife . . . Jochebed, the daughter of Levi (Num. 26:59) bare a son. . . . And when she could not longer hide him (from Pharaoh's death decree), she took for him an ark . . . and put the child therein; and she laid it in the flags by the river's brink (Ex. 2:2-3).
This is an example of how a mother's faith saved the child who was to become the great lawgiver.
Through the miracles God said He would perform through Moses (4:30), the people were convinced that God would use him to lead them to the promised land.
No change had yet actually taken place in their condition. They had only been assured by Moses and Aaron that God had not forgotten them during their four hundred years. Although their suffering was still just as intense, they bowed their heads and worshipped (4:31). To the unbelieving heart this worship would seem presumptuous, for the words were spoken by Aaron after centuries of slavery in Egypt.
Some Christians are unwilling to worship God because they assume God has forgotten them in their trial and left them in misery. When we are suffering hardships, we should not lose sight of the God of Abraham and Moses. When impossible situations develop, trust Him to fulfill His promises.
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? . . . Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us (Rom. 8:35-39).
Thought for Today:
When situations seem hopeless, it is more than comforting to remember that our God cares about us and knows how to deliver us (II Pet. 2:9).
Christ Revealed:
As the I AM THAT I AM who commissioned Moses (Ex. 3:13-14; compare Heb. 13:8). Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily (Truly, truly), I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am (John 8:58).
Word Studies:
2:3 flags = reeds; 2:18 Reuel = Jethro; 2:23 bondage = severe oppression; 2:25 had respect unto = was concerned about; 3:18 hearken = believe and obey; 3:22 spoil = take the best of their valuables; 4:10 slow tongue = not qualified; 4:16 to thee instead of a mouth = your spokesman.
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Amazing Love
1 John 4:10
This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.
God is Love
Another really important attribute of God is His love. No human being can love us as much as God does. His love for us reaches to the farthest corner of the universe. We can't begin to imagine how great it is. We can understand it in only one way. We have to think about how much love it took for God to have Jesus die for our sins on the cross.
God’s love for us goes way beyond the natural love a good father has for his children. The fact is, God loves us even when we are rebelling against every one of his commands. Every person who has been born since Adam sinned has inherited a sin nature that makes sin more attractive to him or her than goodness. You can observe this fact in action next time you hang out with your friends. Are you ever called names because you won’t do something good or right? Not likely. But, friends and classmates will tease you and call you names for not joining them in an activity that is wrong or hurtful. It’s way harder to do the right thing than it is to follow the crowd into sin.
Because of our natural attraction to sin, we are not God’s friends, but his enemies. However, he loved us so much that he sacrificed, not his own life, but the life of his son. That is way harder. Paul puts it this way in Romans 5:7-8. “Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man, though for a good man someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”
God loved us so much that he sent Jesus to die for our sins. Every once in a while I hear a story about a father who jumps into Lake Powell to save his child who has fallen into the water. Sometimes the father is successful. Other times he's not. Sometimes, someone else in the boat rescues the child, but the father dies. I am always amazed at how much a father will sacrifice for his child.
If God loves us so much that he gave his only son to save us, he will absolutely care for us in every possible way. He will make sure we have what we need to grow and mature, both physically and spiritually. He will keep us safe. He will never let anything come into our lives that would hurt us in our relationship with him.
The fact of God’s love makes it possible for us to have peace even when things aren’t going like we want them to. God is all-powerful and he loves us perfectly and without any expectations. He never allows us to suffer unless it fulfills a part of His great plan for our lives. He uses both the good and bad things of our lives to make us mature and spiritually beautiful. What a treasure we have in the promise God gave us in John 3:16! “God so loved the world that he gave his one and only son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
Today’s Prayer:
Loving Father God, I surely am glad that I don’t have to earn your love by being good. I’d never make it. Thank you for loving me just the way I am. Thank you, too, for using everything in my life to make me more like Jesus. Most of all, thank you for giving Jesus to die for me so I could know you and live with you forever.
Written by Martha E Menne
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1 Minute Daily Devotions
January 18, 2009
Are You Sure That's What It Says in the Bible?
"'You will not surely die,' the serpent said to the woman. 'For God knows that when you eat of it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.'" - Genesis 3:4
There are a lot of religious fanatics out there spouting strange doctrine. At first, they may actually sound reasonable, because they quote from the Bible. But the problem is, these false prophets will take a verse out of context and base their whole theology around it. While this is often done unintentionally, there are some that will twist a few words on purpose, resulting in an interpretation bearing no resemblance, whatsoever, to God's actual message.
This is an effective technique that the devil has mastered well. Think about the consequences for mankind when the devil twisted God's words in the Garden of Eden! And remember how Satan tried to tempt Jesus in the beginning of His ministry? He twisted the word of God just a little bit, making it seem that He was saying the exact opposite of the actual meaning.
How can you defend this prostitution of God's word? Always study Scripture in light of Scripture. Study the Old Testament in light of the New Testament. Study the Gospels in light of the Epistles, so that you can have the theological and doctrinal understanding of the life of Christ, why He came, what He's all about. You want to study a verse in the context of the chapter, and in the context of the book. The more you study the Bible, the easier it will be to defend yourself from false - or ignorant - prophets.
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New Age Philosophy
Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 18:9-13; Leviticus 19:26,31.
There is great interest today in the esoteric philosophies collectively known as the New Age Movement - transchanneling, ESP, visualization, out-of-the-body experiences, and so forth. There is really nothing new about these practices, except perhaps new names for them. They are the same occult practices that God forbade Israel to engage in long ago: divination, sorcery, interpreting of omens, witchcraft, casting of spells, magic arts, mediums or spiritism. These practices are expressly forbidden by the Bible and are detestable to the Lord. They will not go unpunished. The so-called New Age Movement will not move you into new heights of mental or spiritual prowess, but into the wrath and fury of God.
Moment of Meditation: There is no "hidden wisdom" as the New Age adherents claim, for God has openly revealed, to those who trust in Him, the mysteries of His wisdom in our Lord, Christ Jesus.
A Talk with Jesus: Lord, guard my heart from the old seductions of Satan that are now called new. Amen.
For Further Study: Leviticus 20:6,27; Job 11:7-9; Isaiah 45:3; Ezekiel 13:6-9,20-23; Daniel 2:27-30; 4:7,9,18; Ephesians 3:3-9; 6:19; Colossians 1:25-27; 2:2-3; Revelation 21:8; 22:15.
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Doctrine
Daily Devotional for January 18
2 Timothy 3:16 "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness."
Doctrine is the categorical thinking with God's thoughts on every given subject in the Word of God. What and how God thinks - not what we think.
The Greek word for doctrine is "didaskalia". Titus 2:1 says, "But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine" (didaskalia).
Ephesians 5:18 "but be filled with the Spirit" is a present imperative - a command to do something in the future and involves continuous action. In every thought, every word, and every action I am to be filled with the Spirit. Moment by moment my thoughts should be on the word of God... God's thoughts in categories.
Learn doctrines in categories and you will have a greater defense against the devil and his wiles.
Bible References (KJV)
Ephesians 5:18 "And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit"
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The Purpose Of Marriage
January 18th
READ: Mark 10:1-12
"For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh." So they are no longer two, but one (Mark 10:7-8).
There are a great many implications in this statement. First, you recognize that it does away with all such notions as "homosexual marriages." There are no such things. These pathetic misrepresentations are but a poignant commentary upon the twisted, distorted ideas that prevail in society today. It takes a man and a woman to be married. Marriage is one man and one woman, and it always has been, from the beginning.
But what our Lord makes clear is that this relationship is the highest relationship possible in life. It takes priority over all others. Closer even than the tie of blood is that of marriage, in the mind and heart of God. It is a closer relationship than with any children who follow. People are to become husbands and wives before they become fathers and mothers. This indicates a priority of relationship. A man is closer to his wife, and a wife to her husband, than they will ever be to their children. Though we may not feel that way, nevertheless, it is the truth.
What, then, is the purpose in marriage? It is to become one. This is what marriages are for. Two people who are disparate, distinct, and different individuals, with different personalities, different gifts, blending their lives together so that through the process of the years they become one flesh--that is what marriage is. It is not something that happens instantaneously when you get married. The wedding service does not make you one. The first act of sex after marriage does not make you one. It begins the process, but it does not finish it. It takes the whole marriage to accomplish this. Marriage is the process of two people becoming one.
Therefore man and woman are not to live together as roommates. Marriage is not going your separate ways and having your separate careers and merely sharing a house and a bed together. Nor are they to split up over every problem or difficulty that arises between them; they are to work them out. They are not to separate; they are to choose to be together, to spend the rest of their lives together, in order that they might merge their lives together. Therefore they stop being rivals and start to become partners. A successful marriage, therefore, is not one without problems; it is one where the problems are being worked out, where the husband and wife do not split but stick together, face up to their problems, discover the hardness of heart that is there, and learn how God can soften it. In other words, it is a process, not a single production. It is a pilgrimage, not a six weeks' performance. It is intended to be a public portrayal, not a private predicament. It is a lifelong contract, not a renegotiable franchise, as many presume today.
Thank You for these plain and clear words that help me understand what is involved when we choose a wife or husband and what Your purpose is in it. Help me to walk in these ways.
This daily devotion was inspired by one of Ray's sermons
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An Obedient Son to Earthly
Parents
And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself. Phil. 2:8.
How great must be the humiliation of the Son of God, that He should live in the despised and wicked town of Nazareth. The most holy place upon earth would have been greatly honored by the presence of the world's Redeemer a single year. The palaces of kings would have been exalted to receive Christ as a guest. But the Redeemer of the world passed by the courts of royalty and made His home in a humble mountain village for 30 years, thus conferring distinction upon despised Nazareth.
The Redeemer of the world passed up and down the hills and mountains, from the great plain to the mountain valley. He enjoyed nature's beautiful scenery. He was delighted with the fields glowing with the beautiful flowers, and in listening to the birds of the air, and uniting His voice with them in their happy songs of praise. The groves and mountains were His places of retreat for prayer, and frequently whole nights were spent in communion with His Father.. . .
Notwithstanding the sacred mission of Christ, His exalted relationship with God, of which He was fully aware, He was not above performing the practical duties of life. He was the Creator of the world, and yet He acknowledged His obligation to His earthly parents, and at the call of duty, in compliance with the wishes of His parents, He returned with them from Jerusalem after the Passover, and was subject unto them.
He submitted to restraints of parental authority, and acknowledged the obligations of a son, a brother, friend, and citizen. He discharged His duties to His earthly parents with respectful courtesy. He was the Majesty of heaven. He had been the great commander in heaven. Angels loved to do His bidding. And now He was a willing servant, a cheerful, obedient son.
Jesus was not turned aside by any influence from the faithful service expected of a son. He did not aim to do anything remarkable to distinguish Himself from other youth, or to proclaim His heavenly birth. Even His friends and relatives, in all the years that Christ's life was passed among them, saw no special marks of His divinity. Christ was sedate, self-denying, gentle, cheerful, kind, and ever obedient. He avoided display, but was firm as a rock to principle. . . .
In the little notice given of His childhood and youthful life is an example for parents as well as children, that the more quiet and unnoticed the period of childhood and youth is passed, and the more natural and free from artificial excitement, the more safe will it be for the children, and the more favorable for the formation of a character of purity, natural simplicity, and true moral worth (Youth's Instructor, February 1873).
From Lift Him Up - Page 24
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THE DAILY REPRIEVE
STRENGTH FROM WEAKNESS
“Just to the extent that we do as we think He would have us, and humbly rely on Him, does He enable us to match calamity with serenity.” – Alcoholics Anonymous, page 68
"My gracious favor is all you need. My power works best in your weakness." - 2 Corinthians 12:9
For what it’s worth: Who could have ever believed it? Certainly, not I. The agony of my alcoholic, diseased years has turned out to be a blessing. Actually, that is true for every suffering I have ever experienced. I wish I cooperated better with the Good Lord during these times, but when I am hurting, it is difficult to be willing to do anything except relieve the pain. But God understands. He carries me through the tough time, reminding me that He will never allow me to suffer anything more than what He and I can handle together. Although, it seems to me that it has came way too close at times. But every time, somehow, someway - He can really be creative - my Heavenly Father not only turns the experience into a blessing, He grows me more strength from it and helps others with my experience.
God bless you!
Joe W.