“You don’t need more faith. There is no ‘more’ or ‘less’ in faith.” ~Jesus

Tags

Faith, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 17

Here is the real deal about faith.

• I think I need more faith. If I just had more faith, I could do X. Jesus challenges me to understand God’s goal for me.
• Jesus knows that it isn’t true that I need more faith. Faith is not a question of more or less.
• I either have faith or I don’t. If I believe God can do it and that he is in a good mood, I can act on my faith. God is God.

Jesus is right! It isn’t about ‘more’.

The apostles came up and said to the Master, “Give us more faith.”

But the Master said, “You don’t need more faith. There is no ‘more’ or ‘less’ in faith. If you have a bare kernel of faith, say the size of a poppy seed, you could say to this sycamore tree, ‘Go jump in the lake,’ and it would do it.

Source: Luke 17:5-6

“People ruin their lives by their own stupidity, so why does God always get blamed?” ~King Solomon

Tags

Jesus, King Solomon, Proverbs 19, Stupidity, Wise Sayings

I find it way to easy to blame God. After all, he is in control, right?

On any given day, at any given moment, that is the easy way out.

Not my fault!

Jesus challenges me to look at my own heart. Jesus knows where evil comes from. Evil doesn’t come from God.

At a fundamental level, I need to look in the mirror. 

“This is my Son, marked by my love, focus of my delight. Listen to him.” God about Jesus

Tags

Elijah, God's Word, James, Jesus, John, Matthew 17, Moses, Peter

Jesus takes Peter, James and John with him. They will be his witness to what happens and what God says.

They were about to be present at a stunning time in our history.

God spoke and is clear. Jesus is God’s son. Jesus bears the mark of God. That mark is love. Jesus is the focus of God’s delight.

My job is to listen to Jesus.

Why? God said so! God is God. God has spoken.

God’s word is true and can’t be broken.

Six days later, three of them saw that glory. Jesus took Peter and the brothers, James and John, and led them up a high mountain. His appearance changed from the inside out, right before their eyes. Sunlight poured from his face. His clothes were filled with light. Then they realized that Moses and Elijah were also there in deep conversation with him.

Peter broke in, “Master, this is a great moment! What would you think if I built three memorials here on the mountain—one for you, one for Moses, one for Elijah?”

While he was going on like this, babbling, a light-radiant cloud enveloped them, and sounding from deep in the cloud a voice: “This is my Son, marked by my love, focus of my delight. Listen to him.”

When the disciples heard it, they fell flat on their faces, scared to death. But Jesus came over and touched them. “Don’t be afraid.” When they opened their eyes and looked around all they saw was Jesus, only Jesus.

Source: Matthew 17:1-8

“Let her alone. She’s anticipating and honoring the day of my burial.” ~Jesus

Tags

Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 12, Judas Iscariot, Lazarus, Martha, Mary, Religious Leaders

Breaking news! Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead so the religious leaders decide to kill Lazarus. Talk about not getting it.

OK, back to the real story. Mary spends a fortune on perfume to anoint the feet of Jesus.

Jesus knew what was going on. Jesus always does. Jesus can see into our hearts.

That is the real story here. Jesus knows. I can’t fool him. I shouldn’t try.

My focus needs to be on pleasing him.

Mary knew that is the main thing. The religious leaders didn’t know it. Judas didn’t know it. 

“Sky and earth will wear out; my words won’t wear out.” ~Jesus

Tags

Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 13, Word of God

I can count on Jesus and what he says. The word of Jesus is true. Jesus never deceives me.

I may not understand what Jesus is saying but that is my challenge. I need to lean in and listen carefully. I need to play it back in my mind until I “get it”.

“When the going gets rough, take it on the chin with the rest of us, the way Jesus did.” ~Apostle Paul

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2 Timothy 2, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Perseverance, Rules

Things are going to get rough. I am not going “to get my way”. That is a reality and I know it is true. I may not like it but that isn’t the issue.

My job is to follow orders. That is it. I must be a good soldier for Jesus.

I have to play by God’s rules. God is God and I must accept that. Anything else will lead to failure. I must truly think on this. God will make it plain to me.

“An evil and wanton generation is always wanting signs and wonders. The only sign you’ll get is the Jonah sign.” ~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Matthew 16, Pharisees, Resurrection, Sadducees

Jesus is direct. Jesus has no tolerance for the religious and their hypocritical ways.

I must take the warning from Jesus seriously. Jesus has given us all a sign. Jesus died, was buried, rose from the dead (the Jonah sign) and has ascended into heaven to be with God. 

“It’s not possible for a person to succeed—I’m talking about eternal success—without heaven’s help.” ~John the Baptizer

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Jesus, John 3, John the Baptist, Messiah, Repent, Sin, Success

I like to think I can do it all myself and that I don’t need any help.

I need to change my mind (repent) because that has me missing God’s goal for my life (sin).

I can’t succeed without the help of Jesus, the Messiah. That is reality and I need to get on board with that. It is all about Jesus and nothing about me. 

“Go home to your own people. Tell them your story—what the Master did, how he had mercy on you.” ~Jesus

Tags

Evil, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Master, Mercy, Messiah, Sin

God’s mercy

Jesus is clear. I need to tell everyone I know how Jesus, my Master and the Messiah, has had mercy on me. Jesus is in a good mood. He doesn’t hold me to account for missing God’s goal in my life (sin). Jesus, in his mercy, casts out the evil dwelling in me.

I was in a bad state. Some days I still am. Jesus cleans me up and sets me on the right way.

I must tell my story.

That is the challenge I have received from Jesus.

As Jesus was getting into the boat, the demon-delivered man begged to go along, but he wouldn’t let him. Jesus said, “Go home to your own people. Tell them your story—what the Master did, how he had mercy on you.” The man went back and began to preach in the Ten Towns area about what Jesus had done for him. He was the talk of the town.

Source: Mark 5:16-20

“Why do your disciples play fast and loose with the rules?” ~Religious scholars to Jesus

Tags

Jesus, Matthew 15, Religious Leaders

Religious Charade

It is sad but religious people are consumed with “the rules”. Jesus knew it very well. He encountered it all the time.

Question to myself. Am I consumed about the rules and who is or isn’t following them?

I need to listen very close to Jesus. Jesus brings clarity to what is important. Am I on the side of Jesus or the religious leaders?

After that, Pharisees and religion scholars came to Jesus all the way from Jerusalem, criticizing, “Why do your disciples play fast and loose with the rules?”  (Matthew 15:1-2)

"You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world." ~~Jesus

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God-colors, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Light, Matthew 5, Mission

Light does amazing things. It is very hard to replicate in a photo what it is doing some days.

Jesus requests that I be His light in this world. I have a mission to bring out the colors of God. I must shine like Jesus does.

I must obey Jesus and His command. He knows what I should do.

While I know that God is light, He also expects me to reflect His glory as well. I am to shine as a reflection of what He represents in the world. There is no hiding. There should be no darkness in my life.

“You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:14-16 The Message)

“I must get rid of the underlying idea that I can ever be right with God because of my obedience.” ~Oswald Chambers

Tags

Gift, Good News, Jesus, Law, Messiah, Oswald Chambers

Obey God

What can I do to get right with God? Nothing. Nada. Zip. Not a single solitary thing.

I have the law of God. I know the result. I miss the goal God has for me non stop, every day. His goal for me doesn’t change. Yet, I keep missing it.

Jesus comes with Good News. He died for me, took the punishment on for breaking God’s law and for missing His goal for me. He delivers me from the burden of punishment. There is nothing I can do to earn it. Trying harder won’t cut it. It is gift.

God is God. There is nothing I can do to get right with him.

“There is only one way by which I can get right with God, and that is through the death of Jesus the Messiah. I must get rid of the underlying idea that I can ever be right with God because of my obedience. Who of us could ever obey God to absolute perfection!” ~~Oswald Chambers

The Law and the Gospel | My Utmost For His Highest

“We’re not hiding things; we’re bringing everything out into the open.” ~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 8, Open, Transparent

I like to hide. I don’t like to be transparent. There are things about myself I don’t want others to know.

Now, that is about me. It is not about God.

Jesus came that I might know God. Know him to the fullest. Know Him like God always intended. It is not about me. It is about Him.

Jesus demands that I be open and let everyone know the power of God.

God is God. God is in charge. Jesus is not hiding anything. At all.

“We’re not hiding things; we’re bringing everything out into the open.” Jesus (Luke 8)

“So be careful that you don’t become misers of what you hear.” –Jesus

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God's Word, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 8, Misers

I guess there are some things to be a miser about. Jesus suggests, however, that God’s word is not one of them.

Jesus expects me to proclaim the good news of the Message He has given me. I should be generous with what Jesus tells me.

Jesus is generous to me. Jesus demands that I be generous as well.

God is in charge of His country. He is generous with His message to me. He expects me to be the same.

Something to be careful of for sure.

So be careful that you don’t become misers of what you hear.” –Jesus (Luke 8 )

“I’m up again—rested, tall and steady, fearless before the enemy mobs coming at me from all sides.” ~~King David

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David, Enemy, Fearless, Jesus, Messiah, Psalm 3, Rest, Wise Sayings

In God, i have rest. Even though i know i am  at war, I rest, confident that God will see me through.

Perfect love brings me peace. The is no fear in His world. He is in charge and I can rest.

What a gift from our Father. His goal for me will be achieved. My enemy can’t touch me when I trust in Him.

So … I go to bed confident. God is God. God has put Jesus in charge of everything. I can be fearless.

I wake up rested and strong. I wake up fearless in Jesus, my Messiah.

I stretch myself out. I sleep. Then I’m up again—rested, tall and steady, fearless before the enemy mobs coming at me from all sides.” ~~King David (Psalm 3:5-6)

“Now is the time for judgment on this world; now the prince of this world will be driven out.” ~Jesus

Tags

Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 12, Victory

Jesus on the cross

When Jesus was on the cross, redeeming me, he cried out it is finished. Here he tells the crowds, before that happened, that now was the time for judgement and how Satan would be driven out by His death.

What He said and did is very clear. It is not the future. It was taken care of and finished. Faith compels me to believe it. Not just “kind of” believe it but really believe it.

May I continue to experience His victory.

Now is the time for judgment on this world; now the prince of this world will be driven out. But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself. He said this to show the kind of death he was going to die. John 12:31-33

 

“Don’t be misled: No one makes a fool of God.” ~Apostle Paul

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Apostle Paul Sayings, Fool, Galatians 6, Harvest, Jesus, Life, Selfish

Am I making a fool of God?

No. It can’t be done. God is God. I can’t make a fool of God but I can be a fool.

God operates under certain principles. It is essential, if you do A, you can expect B.

Paul wants me to let God’s Spirit work in my heart. That produces the results God wants, not the results I want.

That is the focus. Focus on love and obeying God. Focusing on God brings life that lasts forever.

Don’t be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest. The person who plants selfishness, ignoring the needs of others—ignoring God!—harvests a crop of weeds. All he’ll have to show for his life is weeds! But the one who plants in response to God, letting God’s Spirit do the growth work in him, harvests a crop of real life, eternal life. Galatians 6:7-8 MSG

"The Sabbath was made to serve us; we weren’t made to serve the Sabbath." ~~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 2, Sabbath

Jesus directed a lot of comments to the religious scholars of the day. On this particular day they were upset Jesus’ disciples were breaking the Sabbath rules about not working. They were nit picking. Jesus saw right through this.

They had it all wrong. It wasn’t about rules and regulations. God’s love is expressed in His word. We need to get it.

It is all about loving God and loving everyone else I meet during the day. The law is love. It is here to serve us.

The final thing Jesus makes clear is that He is in charge. Period. End of story.

Jesus is God’s son and God alone has put Him in charge. That must be dealt with. No hiding from it.

The Sabbath was made to serve us; we weren’t made to serve the Sabbath. The Son of Man is no lackey to the Sabbath. He’s in charge!” ~~Jesus (Mark 2:25-28 The Message)

Who is going to set up the chairs for the Bible study?

Tags

Humility, Jesus, Kathi Macias

Somebody has to set up the chairs. In God’s world, it is not about who gets credit and gets to do the glamorous jobs.

Those who are last will be first. Being last is the attitude Jesus demands of me.

If we’re honest, we’ll admit that many of us prefer to be the one “on stage,” the one in the limelight, receiving the accolades and praise and attention, rather than the silent one in the background, setting up chairs so others can come and rest as they listen to God’s message. But if we truly believe we are all one Body, here to serve God and others, then setting up chairs at the women’s Bible study is just as vital as giving the keynote address at a national gathering. And caring for those who cannot care for themselves is a great privilege, bestowed upon us by the Creator of the Universe, the Author of Life.

–-by Kathi Macias

Embrace a ‘You-First’ Lifestyle in 2009

“I try to be as true to my word as God is to his.” ~Apostle Paul

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2 Corinthians 1, Apostle Paul Sayings, Flip Flop, Jesus, Truth, Yes

Oh my goodness. Am I as true to my word as God is to His?

God doesn’t flip flop when He promises me something. God isn’t glib in His approach to what He says to me. God doesn’t waffle or waiver. Not at all. Not ever.

God is always faithful to His word. God is God. Jesus is his Son and in charge of God’s world.

May I be as true to my word as God is to His.

Are you now going to accuse me of being flip with my promises because it didn’t work out? Do you think I talk out of both sides of my mouth—a glib yes one moment, a glib no the next? Well, you’re wrong. I try to be as true to my word as God is to his. Our word to you wasn’t a careless yes canceled by an indifferent no. How could it be? When Silas and Timothy and I proclaimed the Son of God among you, did you pick up on any yes-and-no, on-again, off-again waffling? Wasn’t it a clean, strong Yes? 2 Corinthians 1:17-19

"Your task is to be true, not popular." ~~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 6, Popularity, Truth

Being true to Jesus runs counter to our culture. Of course, being true is exactly how Jesus lived. Jesus calls for a radical commitment. He is truth.

Jesus knows that there’s trouble ahead when you live only for the approval of others, saying what flatters them, doing what indulges them. Popularity contests are not truth contests.

Jesus challenges me to live and say the truth. He does not demand I be popular.

May I win the truth contest.

Your task is to be true, not popular.” ~~Jesus (Luke 6:26 The Message)

“It’s the well-trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God.” ~Author of Hebrews

Tags

Discipline, Hebrews 12, Jesus, Training

Jesus challenges us

Training isn’t fun. I may look forward to it in a certain perverse way but it isn’t really fun. I endured training, in sports, because it was the only way I could play the game, which was the point of the training. I couldn’t get to the game without going through the training.

It could be cruel and what we endured is unusual. It is the training that makes us “mature players”. God’s goal for me is maturity. I need to grow up.

So it is with Jesus. I don’t get in the game unless I  go through the training that Jesus has in mind for me.

But the training pays off. That is God’s way.

I must look for the training opportunities so I can learn ways of Jesus.

At the time, discipline isn’t much fun. It always feels like it’s going against the grain. Later, of course, it pays off handsomely, for it’s the well-trained who find themselves mature in their relationship with God. (Hebrews 12:11 The Message)

 

“Real help comes from God.” ~King David

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Blessing, Help, Jesus, King David, Psalm 3, Wise Sayings

There is help and then there is real help. Real help comes from God.

I don’t know about others, but I don’t like to ask for help. I don’t like to feel like I am putting others out of the way.

I like to “be in control.”

I am reflecting on whether this carries over into my relationship with God. He loves to helps like a father loves helping his children.

Real help comes from Jesus. I need to seek His solutions, not mine.

His blessing is all I need. It clothes me in His eternal glory. He is good all the time.

May I look for the help that comes from God.

Real help comes from God. Your blessing clothes your people! Psalm 3:8

“A farmer too lazy to plant in the spring has nothing to harvest in the fall.” ~~King Solomon

Tags

Harvest, Jesus, King Solomon, Patience, Plant, Wise Sayings

Harvest

God created a world where one thing leads to another. It is not always immediate but eventually planting will produce a crop.

The reverse is also important wisdom. If I don’t do something, nothing is going to happen. Zip, Zilch, Nada, nothing.

There is wisdom in being industrious and not lazy.

God is God. His ways are firm and I can’t change them.

May I plant the right seeds to produce a great harvest.

May I be patient to wait on the results

A farmer too lazy to plant in the spring has nothing to harvest in the fall. ” ~~King Solomon (Proverbs 20:4)

“You don’t know the first thing about tomorrow.” ~James

Tags

Evil, James 4, Jesus, Plans, Self-Importance

My dad had a saying that summed this up pretty good. “Good Lord willing and the creek don’t rise”.

That is what God wants and there is a lot out of my control. This is a hard to get some days. It takes faith and supernatural courage. It is all about what God wants and not what I plan.

Now I love to plan and I love to be spontaneous. But either way, I don’t know what our Master has in mind for tomorrow.

Jesus taught us to pray, “Give us this day our daily bread”. I can know what he wants me to do right now. Tomorrow is a whole different story.

So what James has to say is radical. Jesus was radical and James knew it first hand from him.

Do I know what to do? Do I do it? If not, why not?

May I be thankful for today’s bread!

May I press in to know Him better.

And now I have a word for you who brashly announce, ‘Today—at the latest, tomorrow—we’re off to such and such a city for the year. We’re going to start a business and make a lot of money.’ You don’t know the first thing about tomorrow. You’re nothing but a wisp of fog, catching a brief bit of sun before disappearing. Instead, make it a habit to say, ‘If the Master wills it and we’re still alive, we’ll do this or that.’ As it is, you are full of your grandiose selves. All such vaunting self-importance is evil. In fact, if you know the right thing to do and don’t do it, that, for you, is evil. James 4

“Don’t stop him. If he’s not an enemy, he’s an ally.” ~Jesus

Tags

Ally, Enemy, Jesus, Luke 9, Messiah

Jesus the Messiah

Many people do things in the name of Jesus. They may not be a part of “our group” or our Church.

I need to be careful. Someone who performs the work of God in the name of Jesus is not an enemy. God’s country is not divided against itself.

God is God. God will judge. Good work in the name of Jesus is not my concern.

I have an enemy. His work is clear.

They started arguing over which of them would be most famous. When Jesus realized how much this mattered to them, he brought a child to his side. “Whoever accepts this child as if the child were me, accepts me,” he said. “And whoever accepts me, accepts the One who sent me. You become great by accepting, not asserting. Your spirit, not your size, makes the difference.”

John spoke up, “Master, we saw a man using your name to expel demons and we stopped him because he wasn’t of our group.”

Jesus said, “Don’t stop him. If he’s not an enemy, he’s an ally.

Source: Luke 9:46 – 50

“Don’t you know there’s a King in Zion?” ~God

Tags

God is God, Jesus, Messiah, Psalm 2, Victory

Victory in Jesus

Our leaders don’t always get it. They plot, the connive, they think they are in control. They defy God and think they are free from Jesus.

God has shut them up. Jesus came and established His rule and authority. God’s world and government has triumphed the present world order.

Nothing is impossible for Jesus, the Messiah. Jesus is in control. Jesus has been inaugurated already. Jesus has already won the victory.

Why the big noise, nations? Why the mean plots, peoples?
Earth-leaders push for position,
Demagogues and delegates meet for summit talks,
The God-deniers, the Messiah-defiers:
“Let’s get free of God!
Cast loose from Messiah!”

Heaven-throned God breaks out laughing.
At first he’s amused at their presumption;
Then he gets good and angry.
Furiously, he shuts them up:
“Don’t you know there’s a King in Zion? A coronation banquet
Is spread for him on the holy summit.”

Psalm 2:1-6

“If you’re not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it good-bye, you can’t be my disciple.” ~Jesus

Tags

Discipleship, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Luke 14, Plans

Jesus has a way of being clear. He leaves no doubt. In God’s world, God comes first. That is all there is to it. I can’t negotiate with Him. God is God. I need to get clear on that.

So, I can kiss everything else goodbye if I want to follow Jesus. Is something near and dear to me? Am I ready to give it up? Will I kiss it goodbye? That is what Jesus is challenging me to do. Will I do it?

Yes, I heard it right. Jesus said it and Jesus meant it.

Simply put, if you’re not willing to take what is dearest to you, whether plans or people, and kiss it good-bye, you can’t be my disciple.”  Luke 14

 

May I have the courage to kiss all my plans goodbye.

May He come first always.

Jesus has the place of honor, sitting next to God and in control of everything!

Tags

Citizen, Crown, Government, Jesus, Kingdom

Jesus, as Son, has the most special relationship with the Father. As Son, the Father says to Jesus, you are God. You are in control of my government for good. No one will ever take your place. Now Satan, an angel, thought he could be in control. God has put an end to that nonsense.

Jesus’ victory has made that clear. God just loves it when things are put right. And He hates it when things are out of whack. And so God is VERY happy.

Jesus started it all. He laid the earth’s very foundations. And He will finish it all.

How special is Jesus? God has never said to anyone, any created being, sit here next to me. He has given Jesus the place of honor. He is charge (King) of God’s country and government (Kingdom). That is the new plan. God has replaced the crown of thorns with one of gold.

So this is something we can count on. Jesus is the Son. Everything has been put in His control in God’s country. We are citizens AND children of His country. All is well.

“Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” ~Jesus

Tags

Courage, Fear, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark 6

Courage

99 out of 100 things I worry about never happen.

And yet, I continue to be afraid.

Jesus is ever present letting me know that I need to take courage.

He says “It is I”. He is here. Do I hear Jesus? He says “Don’t be afraid”. Do I hear Him?

He gives me courage in His world. His world is here and now.

On earth, as it is in heaven right now.

 Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” ~Jesus (Mark 6:50)

May I take courage.

May I have courage.

May I hear Jesus.

“It takes one to know one. Judgmental criticism of others is a well-known way of escaping detection in your own crimes and misdemeanors.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Criticism, Jesus, Judgement, Romans 2

I don’t want to be condemned. No way, no how.

I want to live in freedom. I don’t want that guilt in my life.

And so, God says over and over in His message of good news to me. I am free from all the things I have done that miss His goal for me.

I need to reflect Jesus love and freedom to others and eliminate criticism and judgement from my ways. I am not to judge, period. Jesus is clear on that.

God is God. God is in charge. God will judge me. I must take advantage of his mercy every day. No way around that.

Those people are on a dark spiral downward. But if you think that leaves you on the high ground where you can point your finger at others, think again. Every time you criticize someone, you condemn yourself. It takes one to know one. Judgmental criticism of others is a well-known way of escaping detection in your own crimes and misdemeanors. But God isn’t so easily diverted. He sees right through all such smoke screens and holds you to what you’ve done. Romans 2:1-2

May I live free from judgmental criticism.

“God raised Jesus from death and set him on a throne in deep heaven, in charge of running the universe.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Easter, Ephesians 1, Jesus, Messiah, Resurrection

Jesus is in charge

Who is Jesus? The very Son of God who, as man, died for us and is now resurrected. But in His resurrection, God has put Him in charge of everything. Nothing is exempt at all. Not a single thing.

So, how long will he be in charge? Imagine billions and billions of years. Imagine it never ending.

That is hard to get my mind around some days because this is a world where things come to an end. In Jesus, who is in charge of everything forever, I live and have the same life.

This is His gift to me.

God is God. He is in charge. He has given all authority to His Son Jesus, our Master. He is the Messiah.

All this energy issues from the Messiah: God raised him from death and set him on a throne in deep heaven, in charge of running the universe, everything from galaxies to governments, no name and no power exempt from his rule. And not just for the time being, but forever. He is in charge of it all, has the final word on everything. At the center of all this, the Messiah rules the church. The church, you see, is not peripheral to the world; the world is peripheral to the church. The church is the Messiah’s body, in which he speaks and acts, by which he fills everything with his presence. ~~Ephesians 1:20

“I’m not really religious but very spiritual.” ~Christina Aguilera

Tags

Barna Group, Jesus, Religious, Spiritual

How many times have I heard someone say “I’m spiritual but not religious”?

Way too many probably.

It is nice to have some insight from the Barna Group about what is behind this saying.

I’m spiritual but not religious.” You’ve heard it—maybe even said it—before. But what does it actually mean? Can you be one without the other? Once synonymous, “religious” and “spiritual” have now come to describe seemingly distinct (but sometimes overlapping) domains of human activity. The twin cultural trends of deinstitutionalization and individualism have, for many, moved spiritual practice away from the public rituals of institutional Christianity to the private experience of God within. In this conclusion of a two-part series on faith outside the church (read the first part, on those who “love Jesus but not the church”), Barna takes a close look at the segment of the American population who are “spiritual but not religious.” Who are they? What do they believe? How do they live out their spirituality daily?

Source: Meet the “Spiritual but Not Religious” – Barna Group – Barna Group

 

“Know that the LORD is God.” ~King David

Tags

Faithful, God is God, God is Good, King David, Love, Psalm, Psalm 100, Thanksgiving, Wise Sayings

God is so good. He is in a good mood all the time.

Jesus, God’s son, loves and never stops loving. He is loyal and faithful to us all.

God is God. There are none others. Not money or credit cards or 401k’s can save us from missing God’s goal for our lives.

Jesus, the Messiah, alone is worthy of our faith and love.

So, let’s shout it out!!

Shout for joy to the LORD, all the earth.
Worship the LORD with gladness;
come before him with joyful songs.
Know that the LORD is God.
It is he who made us, and we are his;
we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving
and his courts with praise;
give thanks to him and praise his name.
For the LORD is good and his love endures forever;
his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Psalm 100:1-5

We know God and He delights in impossibilities. He always asks "Is anything too hard for me?"

Tags

God is God, Impossible, Power

I am so very thankful for our God. He is amazing. There is no end to the great things He has in store for us.

What does our God delight in? He delights in impossibilities. What does God say? Nothing is too difficult for me.

Nothing is too hard for God. Nothing is impossible to Him.

I know God and He delights in impossibilities. He always asks “Is anything too hard for me?”

And of course nothing is impossible for him.

 

“Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit.” ~God

Tags

Holy Spirit, Jesus, Power, Victory, Zechariah 4

How do I  get things done in God’s world? What makes the difference? Does it happen if I am just strong and force my way through life?

Not in God’s world. It happens by His spirit. The victory belongs to Him no matter how much I plan and get ready.

That is the lesson of Jesus. He just did what He saw His Father doing. Sometimes I get confused thinking I should be able to do it all by myself and then get the credit.

My victory is in Jesus. That is the only way to get it done and please God, our Father.

May I know in the depths of my heart that it is God who is the source of accomplishments.

He said to me, ‘This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the LORD Almighty. Zechariah 4:6

“Every story has a villain because yours does. You were born into a world at war.” ~John Eldredge

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Archangel Michael, Enemy, Jesus, John Eldredge, Lucifer, Revelation 12, Satan

I have an enemy. Is that clear to me?

It is a critical question. I don’t want to be “enemy focused” but I need to know I have one. He couldn’t prevail against the archangel Michael. He couldn’t prevail against Jesus. He can’t prevail against me.

It would be dangerous, however, to pretend he doesn’t exist and that I don’t need to be prepared.

I need to be prepared. I am at war.

Every story has a villain because yours does. You were born into a world at war.

When Satan lost the battle against Michael and his angels, “he was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him” (Rev. 12:9). That means that right now, on this earth, there are hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of fallen angels, foul spirits, bent on our destruction. And what is Satan’s mood?

“He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short” (v. 12). So what does he spend every day and every night of his sleepless, untiring existence doing?

“Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to make war against . . . those who obey God’s commandments and hold to the testimony of Jesus” (v. 17). He has you in his crosshairs, and he isn’t smiling.

Why Does Every Story Have a Villain? | Ransomed Heart Ministries

"But the witness that really confirms me far exceeds John’s witness. It’s the work the Father gave me to complete." ~~Jesus

Tags

Focus, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 5, Obedience

How do we know about Jesus and who He is?

Just look at the totality of what He did and does. He is entirely focused on what His Father, God, wants Him to do. And Jesus does it. And it is amazing.

That is the only witness that Jesus needs. Jesus completed everything God gave him to do. And Jesus is still doing it today.

May we turn to Jesus, obey him and be complete.

But the witness that really confirms me far exceeds John’s witness. It’s the work the Father gave me to complete.” ~~Jesus (John 5:34-38 The Message)

“If You’re a Christian and Everyone Likes You… Something’s Wrong” ~Sarah Domon

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Jesus, Persecution, Sarah Doman

Jesus challenges us. He has let us know that we will be persecuted for following him and his way. It will happen.

If it doesn’t happen, then something is wrong. I can count on it.

Author and counselor Sara Dormon believes it’s time for Christians to collectively take Jesus more seriously, arguing in an interview with “The Church Boys” podcast that she believes many faithful have simply become too complacent.

Dormon, who recently released a book titled, “If You’re a Christian and Everyone Likes You…Something’s Wrong,” also said she believes Christians are too willing to compromise their beliefs, and that they often allow themselves to be known more for what they oppose than for what they’re for.

“I would rather honor God and be loved by God than be loved by man, and I think that’s the mess we’ve fallen into as Christians,” Dormon said. “We’ve learned to compromise our faith, we’ve learned to not rock the boat…don’t step on toes.”

So, the author essentially advocates a balanced approach: embracing one’s truth and faith while simultaneously showing love for others. This is the very topic she covers in the book — a six-year project that started as mere journal entries after a personal crisis of faith.

Source: ‘If You’re a Christian and Everyone Likes You… Something’s Wrong’ – Faithwire

 

“Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine.” ~Apostle Paul

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Apostle Paul Sayings, Ephesians 3, Glory, God is God, Imagination, Jesus, Power

I am not thinking big enough. My imagination is limited in ways I can’t grasp. I ask for catfish and He gives me Tilapia.

The power of Jesus is in me. I need to ask for more. If I think God wants to comfort a dear friend who is sick, why don’t I ask Him to completely heal them? If I think a family member needs salvation, why don’t I ask for complete deliverance?

My limitations are my limitations. Nothing is impossible with God. He wants to do stunning things.

May I expand my view to the possibilities that my all powerful God can do and not what I am willing to settle for.

God is God and God is great.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. Ephesians 3:20-21 

 

 

 

“I decided not to make another visit that could only be painful to both of us.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 2, God is God, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Obedience

Paul decided not to show up, even though he was wanted. How often, just because someone asks me to come, do I show up not even thinking, is this something God wants me to do?

Sometimes there is a pain that our Spirit filled life brings to others. Sometimes the timing is off.

Better to show up when God wants me to and not just because someone asked me to.

I must seek God. He will lead the way for me.

That’s why I decided not to make another visit that could only be painful to both of us. If by merely showing up I would put you in an embarrassingly painful position, how would you then be free to cheer and refresh me? 2 Corinthians 2:1-2

“Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.” ~Apostle Paul

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1 Timothy 6, Apostle Paul Sayings, Contentment, Faith, Jesus, Rich, Temptation

Peace with God

There is a striving for “things” that is not natural in God’s world. Being content is a huge thing.

It takes a supernatural courage from God to believe He is in control and that I have all I need. Godliness with contentment. Hmmm!! That is what I want.

In His world, I have all His riches. I don’t need the riches of this world. His new plan gives me all that I need in Him.

There is a way that leads to destruction. I will choose His way that leads to contentment and peace.

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. 1 Timothy 6:6-10 TNIV Bible

“When we suffer for Jesus, it works out for your healing and salvation.” ~Apostle Paul

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2 Corinthians 1, Encouragement, Endurance, Healing, Jesus, Salvation, Suffer

There is a suffering that is for a great reason. It is a suffering for Jesus and it leads to healing and salvation. Now that doesn’t make sense to the world I live in but it is true.

Our culture believes that success is the “lack of hard times”. Jesus led the way. His suffering led to my salvation and healing and so it is true for me too.

We all share in the good and tough times in Jesus. None of us are immune and why should we be?

Jesus did it for me and I must share in it together with Jesus.

That is a sign of my maturity that I know that nothing can separate me from God’s love.

No matter what happens. When I exhibit this attitude, it shows that I am going to make it. Without the willingness to endure the tough times, I would never know.

May I be unflinching in growing in Jesus.

When we suffer for Jesus, it works out for your healing and salvation. If we are treated well, given a helping hand and encouraging word, that also works to your benefit, spurring you on, face forward, unflinching. Your hard times are also our hard times. When we see that you’re just as willing to endure the hard times as to enjoy the good times, we know you’re going to make it, no doubt about it. 2 Corinthians 1:6-7

“On the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak.” ~Jesus

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Accountability, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Judgement, Matthew 12, Words

Jesus knew the value of saying the right things. Jesus only said what He heard His Father saying.

That led Him to do what He saw His Father doing. Many things I say are pretty careless. I don’t think. I say things that hurt others. Sometimes I actually do it on purpose.

There is an accounting for what I say. There will come a time when I have to give an account of what I have said. I should spend more time talking about the way of God. That is what I want to be accountable for.

May I say what I hear God saying. May I speak the truth.

I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned. Matthew 12:36-37

“The integrity of the honest keeps them on track; the deviousness of crooks brings them to ruin.” ~King Solomon

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Devious, Honesty, Integrity, Proverbs 11, Solomon, Wise Sayings

Integrity

God’s way is the way of integrity. God sent Jesus to show me what integrity looks like. Now I know.

It is core to who Jesus is and it is core to who Jesus wants me to be.

The question I ask myself is “What does God want me to do?”

The answer is the answer of integrity. Anything else leads to my ruin.

The integrity of the honest keeps them on track; the deviousness of crooks brings them to ruin..” ~~King Solomon (Proverbs 11:3)

God is great, God and good!

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God is God, God is Good, God is Great, Jesus

God is great – Nothing is impossible for Him. He can and does anything.

Jesus redeems me. Jesus saves me. Jesus heals me. Jesus restores me. I will speak of His great and mighty work.

God is God – He is in control. He has always been and always will be.

This is not a democracy. Democracies are a good form of government but God’s government is not a democracy. God has given all authority to his son Jesus and His way of doing things is what is important. The way He does it in heaven is the way we want it done here on earth.

God is good – He is always good. He is perpetually in a good mood.

Jesus is not upset with me. I am God’s child and He is doing so many good things for me. We are His friends and He will do anything it takes to help us out. We are His bride and His love for us is passionate beyond imagination.

“What we believe is that the One who raised up the Master Jesus will just as certainly raise us up.” ~Apostle Paul

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2 Corinthians, Apostle Paul Sayings, Faith, Jesus, Power, Resurrection

How often do I keep quiet when I should say what I believe? Too often I think.

If I believe in a God so powerful that He raised Jesus from the dead, what should I say in any given circumstance? Really, what should I say about my belief? I must say that Jesus is willing and able.

Well, if I believe that nothing is impossible with God I can’t be quiet.

I have to say the truth no matter how “bad” things look. God is God. He wants to deliver.

I must have faith and believe. If I do, Jesus will come through no matter what.

We’re not keeping this quiet, not on your life. Just like the psalmist who wrote, “I believed it, so I said it,” we say what we believe. And what we believe is that the One who raised up the Master Jesus will just as certainly raise us up with you, alive. Every detail works to your advantage and to God’s glory: more and more grace, more and more people, more and more praise! 2 Corinthians 4:13-15

“For nothing is impossible with God.” ~Angel of God to Mary

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Faith, Jesus, Luke 1

Imagine being a young woman. You are a virgin. An angel shows up and lets you know you are going to give birth to the Son of God.

You ask how that can be since you are a virgin. The angel lets you know that the Spirit of God will make it happen AND nothing is impossible with God. NOTHING. Not a thing. EVERYTHING is possible.

This word of God has been challenging my heart and soul lately. I know I have had things I didn’t believe Jesus could do.

I am leaning in to hear the word of our Father. If he says it, I can count on it. Nothing is impossible.

So here is the deal. When the Angel said nothing is impossible, Mary said, “I am the LORD’s servant. May it be to me as you have said.”

Then a little while later Elizabeth (John the Baptist’s mother) said “Happy woman, who believed what God said, believed every word would come true!”

May I have faith to believe our LORD. Nothing is impossible.

For nothing is impossible with God. Luke 1:37

"Get up. Pick up your stretcher and go home." ~~Jesus to the paraplegic

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Healing, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Mark

Miracles Happen

The man believed Jesus could heal him. His friends believed it so much that when they couldn’t get in the front entrance, they removed part of the roof and lowered the paraplegic on his stretcher. Now that got Jesus attention.

After all this, Jesus has one more thing he wants the man to do. He allows the man an opportunity to demonstrate his faith. And he does.

And he walks out of there.

And those who doubted Jesus rubbed their eyes. They found it hard to believe.

May I have faith like that. May I listen to Jesus and obey.

Get up. Pick up your stretcher and go home.” And the man did it—got up, grabbed his stretcher, and walked out, with everyone there watching him. They rubbed their eyes, incredulous—and then praised God, saying, “We’ve never seen anything like this!

“This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels.” ~Apostle Paul

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Devil, Ephesians 6, Fight, Jesus, Spiritual Weapons

Men of God. This is for you. I have spent a week focused on this scripture.

We must know that we are at war with the Devil. We would like to think that is not true but it is. It is a fact.

Our Master Jesus has given us everything we need. We have the best weapons possible. There is nothing shoddy about them at all.

All we have to do is put them to use. It is a big mistake to think we don’t need them.

We do need GOD. We need to prepare daily for the war. We are at war. This is for keeps.

So take everything the Master has set out for you, well-made weapons of the best materials. And put them to use so you will be able to stand up to everything the Devil throws your way. This is no afternoon athletic contest that we’ll walk away from and forget about in a couple of hours. This is for keeps, a life-or-death fight to the finish against the Devil and all his angels. Ephesians 6:10-12

"An ‘Eye for eye, tooth for tooth.’ Is that going to get us anywhere?" ~~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Legalism, Love, Matthew 5

Jesus loves the word of God. He also knows the legalism can be taken to the extreme.

I certainly have legal “rights” that I can insist on being fulfilled. Jesus also gives me the option to pursue love. His challenge to me is to pursue love and not “my rights”.

Jesus summarizes God’s Law up as 2 essential requirements. Love God and love everyone I come in contact with every day. Jesus demands that I focus on those two requirements.That is the essence of things in God’s world. That is His law.

Legalism isn’t going to get Me anywhere. End of story.

 An ‘Eye for eye, tooth for tooth.’ Is that going to get us anywhere?” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:38-42 The Message)

“Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand.” ~God

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God is God, Jeremiah 18, Jesus

Who is in control of the outcome, the potter or the pottery? The potter of course.

I admit that I am not very creative when it comes to painting, sculpting, etc. I do enjoy hand blown glass and have seen pottery made.

Everything done is in the hands of the artist. He is in control. The clay has no say in what the outcome is.

And so, God is shaping me as seems best to Him. I  may not always understand it but that is the way Jesus works. He is the creator. He is God.

This is the word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD : “Go down to the potter’s house, and there I will give you my message.” So I went down to the potter’s house, and I saw him working at the wheel. But the pot he was shaping from the clay was marred in his hands; so the potter formed it into another pot, shaping it as seemed best to him. Then the word of the LORD came to me: “O house of Israel, can I not do with you as this potter does?” declares the LORD. “Like clay in the hand of the potter, so are you in my hand, O house of Israel.” Jeremiah 18:1-6

May I open myself to what He sees is best for me.

“While hell can be a paralyzing doctrine, it can also be an energizing one, for it magnifies the beauty of the cross.” ~Francis Chan

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Francis Chan, Hell

Francis Chan sees the seriousness of Church doctrine and its meaning and decides to write a book based on his study of the doctrine HELL. We may not want to hear the message but is powerful. Jesus didn’t shy away from it at all.

How could a loving God send people to hell? Will people have a chance after they die to believe in Jesus and go to heaven?

With a humble respect for God’s Word, Francis Chan and Preston Sprinkle address the deepest questions you have about eternal destiny. They’ve asked the same questions. Like you, sometimes they just don’t want to believe in hell. But as they write, “We cannot afford to be wrong on this issue.” This is not a book about who is saying what. It’s a book about what God says. It’s not a book about impersonal theological issues. It’s a book about people who God loves. It’s not a book about arguments, doctrine, or being right. It’s a book about the character of God.

Erasing Hell will immerse you in the truth of Scripture as, together with the authors, you find not only the truth but the courage to live it out.

 

"Don’t listen to them; just trust me." ~~Jesus

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Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Listen, Mark 5, Trust

Trust

One day Jesus took a boat ride. A large crowd met him at the seaside when He arrived. One of the religious leaders named Jairus came to where He was because his daughter was sick. When he saw Jesus, he fell to his knees, beside himself as he begged, “My dear daughter is at death’s door. Come and lay hands on her so she will get well and live.”

Jesus could have done lots of things. He decided to go with him, the whole crowd tagging along, pushing and jostling him. While he was still talking, some people came from the leader’s house and told him, “Your daughter is dead. Why bother the Teacher any more?” Imagine how devastated he is now. Jesus could have just said the word earlier and this wouldn’t have happened.

Jesus overheard what they were talking about. Jesus knows what to say to get us focused. His message of good news is clear.

It is a question of who I will listen to. It is a question of who I will trust.

Don’t listen to them; just trust me.” ~~Jesus (Mark 5:36 The Message)

"And he has given him the authority, simply because he is the Son of Man, to decide and carry out matters of Judgment." ~~Jesus

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Jesus Sayings, John 5, Judgement, Love

Authority of God

Jesus is very clear. I am not to judge others. He is also clear that all judgement has been turned over to Him by His Father.

Why? Because He is God’s Son. He gets to decide and He will carry it out. God has spoken.

If I know that, I need to act like it. I have no authority to judge. My only job is to love. Everything else is up to God and Jesus.

And he has given him the authority, simply because he is the Son of Man, to decide and carry out matters of Judgment.” ~~Jesus  (John 5:25-27 The Message)

“The work of God is this: to believe in the one he has sent.” ~Jesus

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Faith, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 6, Religious

Religious Fraud

It is a fairly reasonable question. We come to Jesus. From our religious culture and upbringing we ask “What must we do to gain favor with God?”

We have been told our whole life, go to church, pray, fast, and be religious. The focus is on doing. It is more that just a religious culture. It is the way of life in America.

So, what does God require? What does Jesus want from me? Good question.

Jesus wants me to work at believing in Him. It is all about the relationship with him and not what I do. I must believe.

That leads to His new plan. His mission will fill us when we know He cares for us.

Then they asked him, ‘What must we do to do the works God
requires?’

Jesus answered, ‘The work of God is this: to believe in the
one he has sent.’ (John 6:26-29 NIV)

“God means what he says.” ~Author of Hebrews

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Hebrews 4, Jesus, Listen, Obey, Word

God’s Word

How many times have I said something, meaning it, and then did not follow through? Too many times for sure. It is not only my way but the culture we live in. Deceit prevails way too often.

God is not that way.

God means what He says. He follows through. He sees the real issue. He gets right to the heart of the matter.

My job is to listen and obey. There is no escape so I might as well believe and move ahead.

God means what he says. What he says goes. His powerful Word is sharp as a surgeon’s scalpel, cutting through everything, whether doubt or defense, laying us open to listen and obey. Nothing and no one is impervious to God’s Word. We can’t get away from it—no matter what. Hebrews 4:12-13

May I experience the power of God’s word. May I trust Him and obey Him.

“God is light, pure light; there’s not a trace of darkness in him.” ~Apostle John

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1 John 1, Apostle John Sayings, Jesus, Light, Message, Messiah

How do you sum things up in God? What is the main message? What is the elevator speech?

John lets us know. He heard it directly from Jesus.

It is so very nice to have light and be able to see clearly. Stumbling around in the dark is no fun at all.

God is pure light. In Him, we can see everything. He is pure. We can count on Him. It is His character.

That is the message. I am doing my part and passing it on to you.

This, in essence, is the message we heard from the Messiah and are passing on to you: God is light, pure light; there’s not a trace of darkness in him. 1 John 1:5

“She will bring a son to birth, and when she does, you, Joseph, will name him Jesus (Yehshuah)—’God saves’—because he will save his people from sin.” ~God’s angel

Tags

Christmas, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Matthew 1, Messiah, Savior

Joseph had a lot to deal with. What to name the Son of God wasn’t one of them. God’s angel made that clear to him. His name is Jesus (Yehshuah), “God Saves”.

His bigger problem was what to do about his fiance who was pregnant but claimed the Holy Spirit got her pregnant. He trusted Mary but only up to a point. He was going to call the whole thing off. The angel solved that for him as well.

It is clear to Joseph that this child will be like no other. First, her pregnancy is from a man. Second, it is God, through His Spirit, that has caused the pregnancy. Third, the child will be a boy. Finally, His name will show God’s purpose, to deliver and rescue mankind.

So … the Son of God is named Jesus (Yehshuah). And, most importantly, Jesus rescues and delivers us from sin, that is, missing God’s goal for our lives.

While he was trying to figure a way out, he had a dream. God’s angel spoke in the dream: “Joseph, son of David, don’t hesitate to get married. Mary’s pregnancy is Spirit-conceived. God’s Holy Spirit has made her pregnant. She will bring a son to birth, and when she does, you, Joseph, will name him Jesus (Yehshuah)—’God saves’—because he will save his people from (sin) missing God’s goal for their lives.” Matthew 1:20-23

“Think of yourselves the way the Messiah Jesus thought of himself.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Death, Humility, Jesus, Messiah, Obedience, Philippians 2, Resurrection, Selfless

The birth of Jesus has special meaning. We must see it from the eyes of Jesus, our Messiah. We should think of why Jesus gave up the glory of heaven and humbled himself to come to earth as a man. He became a slave for us. Jesus humbled himself.

Forget about the baby and see the man on the cross, dying for us. Jesus didn’t come to give us Christmas trees filled with gifts. Jesus came to give us a cross and an empty tomb.

Above all else, Jesus humbled himself to be obedient to God, his father. His obedience led to his exaltation.

It wasn’t about the manager. It was all about the cross, the empty tomb and his mighty resurrection.

All honor and glory to Jesus, our Messiah.

Think of yourselves the way the Messiah Jesus thought of himself. He had equal status with God but didn’t think so much of himself that he had to cling to the advantages of that status no matter what. Not at all. When the time came, he set aside the privileges of deity and took on the status of a slave, became human! Having become human, he stayed human. It was an incredibly humbling process. He didn’t claim special privileges. Instead, he lived a selfless, obedient life and then died a selfless, obedient death—and the worst kind of death at that—a crucifixion.

Because of that obedience, God lifted him high and honored him far beyond anyone or anything, ever, so that all created beings in heaven and on earth—even those long ago dead and buried—will bow in worship before this Jesus the Messiah, and call out in praise that he is the Master of all, to the glorious honor of God the Father.

Source: Philippians 2:5-11 MSG – Think of yourselves the way Christ – Bible Gateway

“Joseph went to Bethlehem with Mary, his fiancée, who was pregnant.” ~Luke

Tags

Christmas, Jesus, Joseph, Luke 2, Mary, Messiah

Bethlehem

So this is how it happened. Luke starts warming us up with some basic facts. In a few more paragraphs we will begin to learn about how the Son of God was born and began to live among us.

Jesus came with a mission. It begins with some basic facts. It ends with Jesus ascending into heaven, a triumphant Messiah.

Luke draws me in. I want to know more.

About that time Caesar Augustus ordered a census to be taken throughout the Empire. This was the first census when Quirinius was governor of Syria. Everyone had to travel to his own ancestral hometown to be accounted for. So Joseph went from the Galilean town of Nazareth up to Bethlehem in Judah, David’s town, for the census. As a descendant of David, he had to go there. He went with Mary, his fiancée, who was pregnant.

Source: Luke 2:1, 4-5 MSG – The Birth of Jesus – About that time – Bible Gateway

Jesus leads us as the new pioneer of supernatural faith and courage.

Tags

Courage, Faith, Jesus, New plan, Salvation

Courage

God got everything started. Everything came from Him. His word made it all happen.

He is also the one who keeps everything going. Without God, it all comes to a standstill. So, God starts it all and keeps it all moving.

His son Jesus came as a pioneer. He led the way through His suffering on to the glory.

Jesus experienced it first. God started it all. God keeps it moving and now His new agreement with us is to complete it all as well. Jesus leads us as the new pioneer of supernatural faith.

God is the one who saves us and those of us who are saved have an origin that we share in common. It is Jesus.

And Jesus doesn’t hesitate to treat us all as family and friends. We are all together with the one starts, keeps things going and is now completing His good work. How amazing it is. How stunning Jesus is.

"God’s Law is more real and lasting than the stars in the sky and the ground at your feet." ~~Jesus

Tags

God's Word, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Law, Matthew 5

God’s Word

Jesus is clear on what God has said. His word is like Him. It is here to stay.

Nothing can be added to what God has said or taken away from it. God means what He says. We can count on Him.

Everything else is temporary. It will pass away. It is not real. God’s word is the real deal.

Now that is some good news.

“God’s Law is more real and lasting than the stars in the sky and the ground at your feet.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5:17-18 The Message)

“Jesus stood over her, told the fever to leave—and it left.” ~Luke

Tags

Faith, Healing, Jesus, Luke 4, Messiah

Bold Faith

It doesn’t matter why they asked Jesus to do something for Simon’s mother-in-law. They wanted Jesus to do something for her. They weren’t specific and that was ok. Just please do something.

Jesus did the ultimate thing, probably more than they thought he would. He was very direct. He told the fever to leave. It did. Nothing is impossible with God.

And so, she got dinner for them.

Jesus, God’s son and the Messiah, is going to do something for you and for me. We may not know what it  is. Our job is to have faith that he will.

He left the meeting place and went to Simon’s house. Simon’s mother-in-law was running a high fever and they asked him to do something for her. He stood over her, told the fever to leave—and it left. Before they knew it, she was up getting dinner for them. Luke 4:38-39

He is the reason for the season. Don’t deny him (like Peter). Greet all with Merry Christmas!!

Tags

Christmas, Deny, Jesus, Peter

Jesus is the reason for the season. Don’t deny him (like Peter). Greet all with Merry Christmas!!

This is the challenge from Jesus. Are we afraid to be a follower?

Jesus is the reason

“By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command.” ~Author of Hebrews

Tags

Faith, God is God, Hebrews 11, Jesus

Just a quick look at the space images on the NASA site and there is no doubt what a great God we have. He spoke and the stars were born.

It really is more than a person can understand. What a awesome creation. And He put us in the middle of it. WOW!

God is God. God can do anything he wants to. God created everything purposefully and perfectly. My job is to believe that and live a life of faith.

By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible. Hebrews 11:3

“They tracked down and brought in the Levites from all their homes in Jerusalem to carry out the dedication exuberantly: thanksgiving hymns, songs, cymbals, harps, and lutes.” ~Nehemiah

Tags

God is God, God is Good, Jesus, Nehemiah 12, Thanksgiving

Thanks

It is a great biblical tradition to celebrate with Thanksgiving.

Our God is God and in a good mood. Giving thanks to him is what it is all about.

Once a year? Nah!

Every minute of every day.

When it came time for the dedication of the wall, they tracked down and brought in the Levites from all their homes in Jerusalem to carry out the dedication exuberantly: thanksgiving hymns, songs, cymbals, harps, and lutes. The singers assembled from all around Jerusalem, from the villages of the Netophathites, from Beth Gilgal, from the farms at Geba and Azmaveth—the singers had built villages for themselves all around Jerusalem.

Nehemiah 12:27-29 The Message (MSG)

“If you’re going to blow a horn, blow a trumpet for God.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 1, God is God, Jesus, Messiah, Pretention

God didn’t choose the brightest and the best. God chooses those who will follow Him. That is it. The brightest and best sometimes think they can do it without God.

There is no pretension with God. He isn’t impressed by what we know or what we have. He knows it all. He has it all. There is nothing we have achieved that He wants.

There is absolutely no blowing our own trumpet with God. Everything comes from God.

May I blow God’s trumpet. He ROCKS, not me. God is God.

May I take advantage of His right thinking.

Take a good look, friends, at who you were when you got called into this life. I don’t see many of “the brightest and the best” among you, not many influential, not many from high-society families. Isn’t it obvious that God deliberately chose men and women that the culture overlooks and exploits and abuses, chose these “nobodies” to expose the hollow pretensions of the “somebodies”? That makes it quite clear that none of you can get by with blowing your own horn before God. Everything that we have—right thinking and right living, a clean slate and a fresh start—comes from God by way of Jesus the Messiah. That’s why we have the saying, “If you’re going to blow a horn, blow a trumpet for God.” 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

 

"I’m not interested in crowd approval." ~~Jesus

Tags

God is God, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, John 5, Popularity

God Knows

Jesus isn’t interested popular opinion or what others think about Him. Jesus isn’t running for political office.

Jesus’ only goal is to please His Father. That is His complete focus.

Crowds would show up on a regular basis but sometimes He would say things and they would leave in disgust.

You can count on Jesus to say what God wants to be said. That may not be popular but we need a God like that.

We can count on Jesus.

“I’m not interested in crowd approval. And do you know why? Because I know you and your crowds.” ~~Jesus

Source: John 5:41-44 The Message

Living in a culture of criticism. “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” ~Jesus

Tags

Criticism, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Judging, Matthew 7

Judge

We pay people to be critics. They make a living doing it. They sometimes even get fancy titles like consultants and commentators.

It seems to me we live in a culture of criticism. And it is taking hold more and more. I get sucked in some days. It is so easy to join in and judge.

It is too easy to see what God is not doing in someone’s life and not what He is doing.

Now none of us appreciate it when the tables are turned and the criticism is directed at us. It hurts. It feels unfair. It is cruel we think.

Jesus is clear on all of this. He is very direct. “Do not judge”. That is it. Don’t do it.

Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. ‘Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in someone else’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? Matthew 7:1-4 TNIV Bible

 

May His grace deliver us from the culture of criticism. May we love the way He loves. May we see what He is doing.

 

“Keep me from stupid sins, from thinking I can take over your work.” ~King David

Tags

God is God, Jesus, King David, Psalm 19, Wise Sayings

Goal

There are all types of ways I miss God’s goal for my life (sin). Some are just plain stupid. As my dad would say, “Not right bright”.

The stupid ones are when I think I can take over from God. This may be subtle but it is stunningly dumb on my part. God is God. I can’t take over from him.

Jesus knows the way. Jesus challenges me to “let go and let God” be in control of my life. Jesus knows that God can do anything.

There is a hidden treasure. That treasure is letting God be in control. That is the smart way in God’s world.

There’s more: God’s Word warns us of danger
    and directs us to hidden treasure.
Otherwise how will we find our way?
    Or know when we play the fool?
Clean the slate, God, so we can start the day fresh!
    Keep me from stupid sins,
    from thinking I can take over your work;
Then I can start this day sun-washed,
    scrubbed clean of the grime of sin.
These are the words in my mouth;
    these are what I chew on and pray.
Accept them when I place them
    on the morning altar,
O God, my Altar-Rock,
    God, Priest-of-My-Altar.

Source: Psalm 19:14 MSG – There’s more: God’s Word warns us – Bible Gateway

“Come back to our God, who is lavish with forgiveness.” ~Isaiah

Tags

Forgive, Isaiah 55, Jesus, Mercy

The Power of Forgiveness

God is God. God can’t betray who he is.

God is good. God is lavish. God forgives me. God forgives me day after day. Minute after minute. Second after second.

I can find Jesus and his mercy right now. God is close to me. Will that always be true?

Jesus challenges me to change my mind and change my behavior. They go hand in hand.

God is good for sure. Jesus is lavish with forgiveness.

Seek God while he’s here to be found,
    pray to him while he’s close at hand.
Let the wicked abandon their way of life
    and the evil their way of thinking.
Let them come back to God, who is merciful,
    come back to our God, who is lavish with forgiveness.

Source: Isaiah 55:6 MSG – Seek GOD while he’s here to be found, – Bible Gateway

“You don’t know the first thing about tomorrow.” ~King Solomon

Tags

Jesus, King Solomon, Knowledge, Wisdom, Wise Sayings

There are a few things I know. God has been good to give me that knowledge.

There are many things I don’t know. There is much to learn.

There is one thing I absolutely don’t know and that is the first thing about tomorrow.

Jesus challenges me to trust God. God knows and God will take care of me. Now that is some good news for sure!

Don’t brashly announce what you’re going to do tomorrow;
    you don’t know the first thing about tomorrow.

Source: Proverbs 27:1 MSG – You Don’t Know Tomorrow – Don’t – Bible Gateway

“The fear of human opinion disables; trusting in God protects you from that.” ~King Solomon

Tags

Fear, Jesus, Proverbs 29, Trust, Wise Sayings

There is a fear that paralyzes me. It is the concern about what you think of me.

Will I post this on Facebook and Twitter?

Will I speak out at work?

Why am I afraid?

The answer is staggering. I don’t trust God is why. If I did trust God, I wouldn’t care what others thought of me. The only opinion that would matter would be God’s.

God has promised to be with me. If God is with me, who can be against me?

The fear of human opinion disables;
    trusting in God protects you from that.

Source: Proverbs 29:25 MSG – The fear of human opinion disables; – Bible Gateway

“I am God, your God.” ~God

Tags

Aaron, Exodus 29, God is God, Israel, Jesus

I am God

God is God.

More importantly, God is my God.

I serve the one and only, true living God. There is no other.

It is one thing to know that God is God. It is everything to know that he is my God. That is the main thing.

Jesus came to show us God and to give us a relationship with God. Through Jesus, I get to know God and understand what he wants me to do.

This is to be your regular, daily Whole-Burnt-Offering before God, generation after generation, sacrificed at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting. That’s where I’ll meet you; that’s where I’ll speak with you; that’s where I’ll meet the Israelites, at the place made holy by my Glory. I’ll make the Tent of Meeting and the Altar holy. I’ll make Aaron and his sons holy in order to serve me as priests. I’ll move in and live with the Israelites. I’ll be their God. They’ll realize that I am their God who brought them out of the land of Egypt so that I could live with them. I am God, your God.

Source: Exodus 29 MSG – Consecration of Priests – “This is – Bible Gateway

“And why? Because God says so. He’s issued the orders.” ~Isaiah

Tags

God is God, Isaiah 24, Jesus, Why

Why? Because God says so.

There is always the question of why looming in front us.

Why?

Why did God allow that to happen?

The arrogance I have some days to question God is stunning. I am embarrassed by it.

God says so. God is God. God doesn’t answer to us.

That is all I need to know. God has issued the orders.

And why? Because God says so.
    He’s issued the orders.

Source: Isaiah 24 MSG – The Landscape Will Be a Moonscape – Bible Gateway

I am reminded that God doesn’t take naps

Tags

God is Good, Jesus, Nap

Power Nap

On days I am not working, sometimes I feel like taking a nap. So … I do.

It feels great. It is a treat to be able to do it.

I am reminded that God, however, is always working for us. He doesn’t take naps. He doesn’t even know how to snore.

And that is a good word to believe in for sure.

"You have your heads in your Bibles constantly. But you miss the forest for the trees." ~~Jesus

Tags

Bible, Eternal Life, Jesus Sayings, John 5, Scripture

Forest for the trees

Jesus demands that I get the point. I need to see Jesus. I need to have a passionate relationship with His Father.

Reading the Bible and missing Him is pointless. Being religious and not in a loving relationship with God is vast waste of time and energy.

I want to get it. I want to be in love with Him.

May I see the forest. The Bible doesn’t give me eternal life. Jesus does.

“You have your heads in your Bibles constantly because you think you’ll find eternal life there. But you miss the forest for the trees. These Scriptures are all about me!” ~~Jesus (John 5:39-40 The Message)

 

“Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.” ~King Solomon

Tags

Discretion, Proverbs 1, Understanding

Understanding

How amazing is it that God wants discretion to protect us and understanding to guard us? It is stunning. God is in a very good mood and is looking out for me.

Jesus is so good to show us what we need to know and how we need to act.

Jesus cares for us like no other. He is good and looking out for our best interest.

May wisdom enter my heart. May knowledge be pleasant to my soul.

For the waywardness of the simple will kill them,
and the complacency of fools will destroy them;
but whoever listens to me will live in safety and be at ease,
without fear of harm.

Then you will understand what is right and just and fair – every good path.
For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will be pleasant to your soul.
Discretion will protect you, and understanding will guard you.

~King Solomon – Source: Proverbs 1:32-33; 2:9-11

“My strength comes from God.” ~King David

Tags

God is God, Jesus, King David, Psalm 121, Strength, Wise Sayings

There is a lot to know in life. Most of them aren’t critical.

Where does my strength come from? Now that is an important question. When I ignore the answer and pretend I can work it out myself, disaster is right around the corner.

My strength comes from God. Jesus is the source of all power and Jesus will provide me strength.

God is God and God is great. Nothing is ever, ever, ever impossible for God.

I look up to the mountains;
    does my strength come from mountains?
No, my strength comes from God,
    who made heaven, and earth, and mountains.

Source: Psalm 121:1-2 MSG – A Pilgrim Song I look up to the – Bible Gateway

Is there any mistake about it? Nothing is impossible with God!

Tags

Courage, Nothing is Impossible

When God brings about what is otherwise impossible, there can be no mistake that God did it. It is easy to say the words, “Nothing is impossible with God”, but to act on them and live by them is another.

May I take the limits off my thinking and have courage to speak and act like I really believe God can do anything.

Truly, nothing is impossible with God. Therefore, nothing Jesus the Messiah plans for me is impossible if I can believe it.

My prayer is “Do whatever You need to do in me, through me, for me, by me, and with me.”

In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“The Messiah is in you, so therefore you can look forward to sharing in God’s glory. It’s that simple.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Colossians 1, Jesus, King, Messiah

Jesus Messiah

The message is actually pretty simple. The message is Jesus, the anointed Messiah, King of God’s world.

It is only about Jesus. I can’t add to that and I can’t take away from that.

That focus will lead to maturity.

This mystery has been kept in the dark for a long time, but now it’s out in the open. God wanted everyone, not just Jews, to know this rich and glorious secret inside and out, regardless of their background, regardless of their religious standing. The mystery in a nutshell is just this: the Messiah is in you, so therefore you can look forward to sharing in God’s glory. It’s that simple. That is the substance of our Message. We preach the Messiah, warning people not to add to the Message. We teach in a spirit of profound common sense so that we can bring each person to maturity. To be mature is to be basic. the Messiah! No more, no less. That’s what I’m working so hard at day after day, year after year, doing my best with the energy God so generously gives me.~Apostle Paul

Source: Colossians 1:28 MSG – This mystery has been kept in the dark – Bible Gateway

What matters? There are a lot of things that don’t really matter at the end of the day.

Tags

God is God, God is Good, God is Great, Jesus, Messiah, What Matters

What matters?

There are a lot of things that don’t really matter at the end of the day. Who won the baseball game is interesting but not essential.

There are three things I know. Those haven’t changed and are more important now more than ever.

1. God is God. He is in control, not our government or anyone in our government. We are citizens of His Kingdom. Jesus is the Messiah, the anointed one of God. Jesus is in charge.
2. God is great. Nothing is impossible with Him. God has it all planned out. God will make it happen.
3. God is good. He has some really great stuff in store for us.

May I focus on what is important.

“I’m thanking God, who makes things right. I’m singing the fame of heaven-high God.” ~King David

Tags

God is God, Jesus, King David, Psalm 7, Right, Wise Sayings

God is God.

God makes things right. God is the only one who can.

I clearly can’t. Justice isn’t within my grasp.

God is a God of justice. Jesus, the Messiah, has been given all authority and is committed to God like no other.

God will make things right. I can count on that.

I thank God for that. I am eternally grateful.

I’m thanking God, who makes things right.
I’m singing the fame of heaven-high God.

~~King David

Source: Psalm 7 MSG – A David Psalm GOD! God! I am running to – Bible Gateway

“Follow your father’s good advice; don’t wander off from your mother’s teachings.” ~King Solomon

Tags

Father, Jesus, Proverbs 6, Wisdom, Wise Sayings

I am a very fortunate man. My father gave me excellent advice. I don’t know that he saw that was doing that but he was.

Or maybe he knew what he was doing. Maybe it wasn’t haphazard.

Regardless, his wisdom serves me well. When I heed it, I am successful.

Then, this is the very cool thing. I have a heavenly Father who is amazingly wise. He sent his son Jesus to show me wisdom and does so every day. My earthly father led me to my heavenly Father.

Good friend, follow your father’s good advice;
    don’t wander off from your mother’s teachings.
Wrap yourself in them from head to foot;
    wear them like a scarf around your neck.
Wherever you walk, they’ll guide you;
    whenever you rest, they’ll guard you;
    when you wake up, they’ll tell you what’s next.
For sound advice is a beacon,
    good teaching is a light,
    moral discipline is a life path.

~~King Solomon

Source: Proverbs 6 MSG – Like a Deer from the Hunter – Dear – Bible Gateway

"Unless you do far better than religious leaders in the matters of right living, you won’t know the first thing about entering the kingdom." ~~Jesus

Tags

Challenge, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Kingdom, Love, Matthew 5

Jesus is tough on religious leaders. He doesn’t cut them any slack.

He challenges me that I can do better than how religious leaders approach God’s world (Kingdom). He wants me to start from the knowledge that this is God’s world. He is in charge. It is not a democracy.

Jesus wants me to love God more than anyone or anything. He wants me to love everyone I come in contact in a very real and concrete way.

Jesus knows I can do better and it doesn’t start by emulating religious leaders.Tough but true.

 Unless you do far better than religious leaders in the matters of right living, you won’t know the first thing about entering God’s world.” ~~Jesus (Matthew 5 The Message)

“The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.” ~King Solomon

Tags

Jesus, King Solomon, Plan, Preparation, Proverbs 21, Wise Sayings

I have been thinking about this lately. I should prepare. That is a very good thing. But I have no victory without the LORD.

Do I see this as much as I should? No I don’t. I trust in my preparations and plans. I’ve got is all planned out. Or so I think.

It is so simple but so hard some days.

I want to run in and “fix” things. Holding back for the LORD’s will and wisdom is needed so very much. In His new plan, the victory is His always.

May the victory always rest with the LORD and not my preparation.

The horse is made ready for the day of battle,
but victory rests with the LORD.

Proverbs 21:31 NIV

God knows exactly how much you can handle. Trust your struggle. God is in a good mood.

Tags

God is God, God is Good, God is Great, Jesus, Trust

I am God

God knows exactly how much I can handle. God is God and God is Great. God will see me through to the end. There is no doubt about it. It is all about God and has nothing to do with me.

I need to trust my struggle. Jesus struggled. Jesus cried out to God. Jesus trusted God and trusted God would see him through to the end. Jesus promised us that in the world we would have trouble.

God is in a good mood. God is my heavenly Father and loves us. God has nothing but good in mind for me.

"The one who rejects you, rejects me." ~Jesus

Tags

Ambassador, Authority, Jesus, Jesus Sayings, Kingdom, Luke, Rejection

Authority of God

Jesus has given me His authority. I am His ambassador to His world (Kingdom) here on earth.

I fully represent Jesus. If this world rejects Jesus they reject God who sent Him.

Jesus calls on me, in fact demands of me, to get this deep in my soul. When I command things to happen, in the name of Jesus, they happen.

I represent Him. Lock, stock and barrel. No doubts about it. Jesus said so. 

The one who listens to you, listens to me. The one who rejects you, rejects me. And rejecting me is the same as rejecting God, who sent me. ~Jesus

Luke 10:16

“Depend on God and keep at it because in the Lord God you have a sure thing.” ~Isaiah

Tags

Isaiah 26, Perseverance

Persistence

Jesus challenges us to keep at it. The key to victory is to depend on God and keep at it.

Don’t give up. Don’t quit.

God is God. Jesus will sustain us. Our job is to not give up. God’s job is to sustain us. God is faithful. God will do his part. Will I do mine?

At that time, this song
    will be sung in the country of Judah:
We have a strong city, Salvation City,
    built and fortified with salvation.
Throw wide the gates
    so good and true people can enter.
People with their minds set on you,
    you keep completely whole,
Steady on their feet,
    because they keep at it and don’t quit.
Depend on God and keep at it
    because in the Lord God you have a sure thing.
Those who lived high and mighty
    he knocked off their high horse.
He used the city built on the hill
    as fill for the marshes.
All the exploited and outcast peoples
    build their lives on the reclaimed land.

Source: Isaiah 26:3 MSG – Stretch the Borders of Life – At that – Bible Gateway

“Yes, I am God. I’ve always been God and I always will be God.”

Tags

Creation, God is God, Isaiah 43, Jesus

God is God

God is God. There is no other. 

Jesus is the way to God. There is no other way.

Anyone who claims otherwise is lying.

It has always been this way and it always will be.

“In the beginning, God …”

Get the blind and deaf out here and ready—
    the blind (though there’s nothing wrong with their eyes)
    and the deaf (though there’s nothing wrong with their ears).
Then get the other nations out here and ready.
    Let’s see what they have to say about this,
    how they account for what’s happened.
Let them present their expert witnesses
    and make their case;
    let them try to convince us what they say is true.
“But you are my witnesses.” God’s Decree.
    “You’re my handpicked servant
So that you’ll come to know and trust me,
    understand both that I am and who I am.
Previous to me there was no such thing as a god,
    nor will there be after me.
I, yes I, am God.
    I’m the only Savior there is.
I spoke, I saved, I told you what existed
    long before these upstart gods appeared on the scene.
And you know it, you’re my witnesses,
    you’re the evidence.” God’s Decree.
“Yes, I am God.
    I’ve always been God
    and I always will be God.
No one can take anything from me.
    I make; who can unmake it?”

Source: Isaiah 43:11-12 MSG – Get the blind and deaf out here and – Bible Gateway

“If you want to claim credit, claim it for God.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 10, Apostle Paul Sayings, Good News, Jesus

This is subtle but significant.

Who gets the credit? Who made it happen?

There is only one answer. God gets the credit. I should always claim it for God.

God made it happen. That is clear but I need to be clear. God is God. God is in control.

 

God did it!

 

We’re not barging in on the rightful work of others, interfering with their ministries, demanding a place in the sun with them. What we’re hoping for is that as your lives grow in faith, you’ll play a part within our expanding work. And we’ll all still be within the limits God sets as we proclaim the Message in countries beyond Corinth. But we have no intention of moving in on what others have done and taking credit for it. “If you want to claim credit, claim it for God.” What you say about yourself means nothing in God’s work. It’s what God says about you that makes the difference.

Source: 2 Corinthians 10:17-18 MSG – We’re not barging in on the rightful – Bible Gateway

“I know you inside and out, and find little to my liking.” ~Jesus

Tags

Accountable, Cold, Hot, Jesus, Lukewarm, Revelation 3

Jesus challenges us

Uh oh!

Dear Jesus, help me not to be lukewarm. Help me to be on fire for you.

I will be held to account for what I do knowing that Jesus is in control.

This isn’t some game. Jesus challenges me to be serious, to get on fire, to be passionate.

God knows me inside and out.

Dear Jesus, help me not to be lukewarm!

Write to Laodicea, to the Angel of the church. God’s Yes, the Faithful and Accurate Witness, the First of God’s creation, says:

“I know you inside and out, and find little to my liking. You’re not cold, you’re not hot—far better to be either cold or hot! You’re stale. You’re stagnant. You make me want to vomit. You brag, ‘I’m rich, I’ve got it made, I need nothing from anyone,’ oblivious that in fact you’re a pitiful, blind beggar, threadbare and homeless.

“Here’s what I want you to do: Buy your gold from me, gold that’s been through the refiner’s fire. Then you’ll be rich. Buy your clothes from me, clothes designed in Heaven. You’ve gone around half-naked long enough. And buy medicine for your eyes from me so you can see,really see.

“The people I love, I call to account—prod and correct and guide so that they’ll live at their best. Up on your feet, then! About face! Run after God!

“Look at me. I stand at the door. I knock. If you hear me call and open the door, I’ll come right in and sit down to supper with you. Conquerors will sit alongside me at the head table, just as I, having conquered, took the place of honor at the side of my Father. That’s my gift to the conquerors!

“Are your ears awake? Listen. Listen to the Wind Words, the Spirit blowing through the churches.”

Source: Revelation 3 MSG – To Sardis – Write this to Sardis, to – Bible Gateway

No problem ahead of you is more powerful than the God behind you.

Tags

God is God, Grateful, Hateful, Jesus, Problem

No problem ahead of you is more powerful than the God behind you. God is great. God is mighty. God created everything with a word. God is committed to us.

Jesus, the Messiah, has given us the Holy Spirit. This is the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead. This is the same Spirit that carried Jesus into heaven. God is God.

Be grateful so you won’t walk around being hateful.

Word Up!

“For God makes all the decisions here. God is our king. God runs this place and he’ll keep us safe.” ~Isaiah

Tags

God is God, Isaiah 33, Jesus, Peace, Safety

The peace of Jesus

What happens when God is charge?

We have peace and safety. God keeps us safe. We have nothing to fear.

How often does God remind us to fear not? How do we get to the place of no fear?

I must let God make all the decisions. God has put Jesus in charge. He is my Master.

Isaiah 33:20-22 The Message (MSG)

Just take a look at Zion, will you?
    Centering our worship in festival feasts!
Feast your eyes on Jerusalem,
    a quiet and permanent place to live.
No more pulling up stakes and moving on,
    no more patched-together lean-tos.
Instead, God! God majestic, God himself the place
    in a country of broad rivers and streams,
But rivers blocked to invading ships,
    off-limits to predatory pirates.
For God makes all the decisions here. God is our king.
    God runs this place and he’ll keep us safe.

Source: Isaiah 33:22 MSG – Just take a look at Zion, will you? – Bible Gateway

“Call to me and I will answer you. I’ll tell you marvelous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own.” ~God

Tags

God is God, Jeremiah 33, Jesus

God is God

God is God. God made everything, the whole universe. The universe of universes. God is a mighty God.

God cares deeply for us. When we call him, he listens and answers us. We are his children and he is in a good mood. He wants us to know amazing things.

Yes, God is God, great and good. All the time.

Jeremiah 33:2-3 The Message (MSG)

This is God’s Message, the God who made earth, made it livable and lasting, known everywhere as God: ‘Call to me and I will answer you. I’ll tell you marvelous and wondrous things that you could never figure out on your own.’

Source: Jeremiah 33:2-3 MSG – “This is GOD’s Message, the God who – Bible Gateway

“There is no likelihood man can ever tap the power of the atom.” ~~Robert Milikan, Nobel Prize in physics, 1923

Tags

Future, Jesus, Plans, Robert Milikan

Ask God

We say lots of things.

Many times we don’t know what we are talking about even if it sounds good.

When it comes to what is going to happen in the future, it is best to leave that up to God. Jesus challenges us to focus today on what God wants. Tomorrow will take care of itself.

God knows. We don’t.

There is no likelihood man can ever tap the power of the atom.

~~Robert Milikan, Nobel Prize in physics, 1923

What happens when we live God’s way and not ours?

Tags

Courage, God's Plan, Jesus, Judge, Planning

Courage

How often do we try to force our way in the processes that the world normally uses. Sheer determination. We’ll get it done.

Persistence is valued but where does it really get us? Planning can be useless if leads to a lack of supernatural courageousness.

God’s plans ROCK. That is all that matters.

What happens when we live God’s way? We stick with Jesus, not our own plans. We develop an incredible sense of compassion in our heart. We are convinced there is a basic holiness that is permeating everything and everyone.

We don’t judge. We love no matter what.

In Jesus, we can be involved in loyal commitments. We are able, in Jesus the Messiah, to marshal and direct God’s energy.

“When you enter a town, heal anyone who is sick, and tell them, ‘God’s government is right on your doorstep!'” ~Jesus

Tags

Healing, Jesus Sayings, Luke 10

Kingdom of God

Jesus doesn’t make it complicated for us. He wants us to replicate what He is doing.

Jesus sends us out. We do the same things He is doing.

What is the the message to share? God’s government and complete rule is here.

Our prayer? Our Father’s will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

It’s all about God. He is in charge. Completely.

God is God, good and great!!

When you enter a town and are received, eat what they set before you, heal anyone who is sick, and tell them, ‘God’s government is right on your doorstep!’~~Jesus (Luke 10:8-9)

"Son, I forgive your missing God’s goal for your life." ~~Jesus to the paraplegic he was about to heal

Tags

Forgiveness, Healing, Jesus Sayings, Mark 2

Bold Faith

Jesus is impressed by bold belief. Boldness, while it may seem outrageous to us, helps us stand out to Jesus.

Jesus is bold Himself. Rather than say “Be healed”, he says I forgive you.

That didn’t go over too well with the religious types of the day. Too bad, so sad.

Jesus said it and it was true. And with that, the man was healed.

Will I be bold? If so, that impresses Jesus.

And that is a very good thing.

After a few days, Jesus returned to Capernaum, and word got around that he was back home. A crowd gathered, jamming the entrance so no one could get in or out. He was teaching the Word. They brought a paraplegic to him, carried by four men. When they weren’t able to get in because of the crowd, they removed part of the roof and lowered the paraplegic on his stretcher. Impressed by their bold belief, Jesus said,  “Son, I forgive your missing God’s goal for your life (sins).” (Mark 2:1-5 The Message)