“For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Adoption, Apostle Paul Sayings, Child of God, Father, Heir, Jesus, Romans 8

For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. For you have not received a spirit of slavery leading to fear again, but you have received a spirit of adoption as sons by which we cry out, “Abba! Father!” The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, ¹⁷ and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with the Messiah, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.” ~Apostle Paul

Source: Romans 8:12-17 NASB

The Apostle Paul lays out a basic premise of The Way (της οδου). We are children of God and more importantly, heirs to the new testament (aka covenant, agreement or plan).

Advertisements

“When we were with you, we made it quite clear that there was trouble ahead.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Thessalonians 3, Apostle Paul Sayings, Faith, God is Good, Jesus, Messiah, Trouble

Being a part of the world of Thanks-Living means we know about trouble ahead but are thankful none the less. Trouble is coming my way. I know it. I have been warned.

More than warned however, Jesus is preparing me to be joyful and persevere. That carries with it a risk but Jesus is faithful. God’s goal for me is believe and endure. It is all about faith. I must believe that God is in a good mood and it is all going to work out according to God’s plan, not mine.

And so … I get up each morning expecting a stunning day in paradise. And, it is.  God is in a good mood.

Not that the troubles should come as any surprise to you. You’ve always known that we’re in for this kind of thing. It’s part of our calling. When we were with you, we made it quite clear that there was trouble ahead. And now that it’s happened, you know what it’s like. That’s why I couldn’t quit worrying; I had to know for myself how you were doing in the faith. I didn’t want the Tempter getting to you and tearing down everything we had built up together.

Source: 1 Thessalonians 3:3-5

“In his Son, Jesus, he personally took on the human condition, entered the disordered mess of struggling humanity in order to set it right once and for all.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Gift, Jesus, Lamb, Messiah, Redemption, Romans 8, Sin

It was God’s plan not to mess around any longer. God decided he would end the “I’ve missed God’s goal for my life” (aka sinning) problem once and for all. The law was never intended to make us whole. God is God. God made the decision on how this had to be handled. My opinion matters not a bit in any of this.

Jesus personally made a huge sacrifice, in so many different ways. Jesus entered our messy world. Jesus decided to deal directly with us as we are struggling. Jesus agreed with his Father to become the living sacrifice that solved the “sin problem” once and for all.

Jesus challenges me to accept that my redemption is a gift. There is nothing I can do to be made right with God. Jesus has done it all. Jesus is the Messiah, the anointed one of God, sent to sacrifice himself like a lamb in the Old Covenant (aka Testament).

God went for the jugular when he sent his own Son. He didn’t deal with the problem as something remote and unimportant. In his Son, Jesus, he personally took on the human condition, entered the disordered mess of struggling humanity in order to set it right once and for all. The law code, weakened as it always was by fractured human nature, could never have done that.

The law always ended up being used as a Band-Aid on sin instead of a deep healing of it. And now what the law code asked for but we couldn’t deliver is accomplished as we, instead of redoubling our own efforts, simply embrace what the Spirit is doing in us.

Source: Romans 8:3-4

“My authority comes directly from Jesus the Messiah and God the Father, who raised him from the dead.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Authority, Galatians 1, Jesus

I live and work in a world where authority comes from a vote or an appointment. I see, every day, titles of people who have been “hired” or appointed to do something.

Is that where my authority comes from? No, my authority, if I have any whatsoever, comes from God.

That is all there is to know. In God’s world (and that is the world I really live in), Jesus is in control. Jesus makes the appointments.

My authority comes from Jesus. That is all there is to it but it is way to easy to forget that. God is God. He, and He alone, gives authority to whom He chooses. It is not up to us.

I, Paul, and my companions in faith here, send greetings to the Galatian churches. My authority for writing to you does not come from any popular vote of the people, nor does it come through the appointment of some human higher-up. It comes directly from Jesus the Messiah and God the Father, who raised him from the dead.

Source: Galatians 1:1-5

Here are the key ideas:

• Authority comes from God and not from anyone else.
• Authority is rooted in the resurrection of Jesus and the power demonstrated by God in that act.
• Elections and appointments don’t matter to God. He is in control, not us.

“I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus the Messiah may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Ephesians 1, Relationship

Who doesn’t want more wisdom in life? I know I do.

The path to wisdom is in knowing Jesus better every day. And so, I long to know Jesus better. That is it.

That is the BIG thing I want in my life. Jesus only did what He saw His Father doing. He set the clear example for me.

That is it for sure where I need to be going with things.

God has a goal for me. The primary thing is to know God and His son Jesus better. It is all about the relationship. That is the point of wisdom and revelation.

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Armor, Devil, Ephesians 6, Faith, Good News, Peace, Righteousness, Salvation, Spirit, Truth, War

Paul reminds me. I am at war. It is an ongoing war. It doesn’t stop.

Who is the enemy? The enemy is the Devil, the evil one. His mission, as described by Jesus, is to kill, steal and destroy.

The good news is that God has given me weapons. I have to learn how to use them. They each serve a different purpose.

• The belt of truth buckled around your waist.
• The breastplate of righteousness in place.
• Feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the good news of peace.
• The shield of faith,with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
• The helmet of salvation.
• The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.

“If a living relationship with God could come by rule-keeping, then the Messiah died unnecessarily.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Galatians 2, Gift, Grace, Messiah

I grew up in a “rule keeping” church. It was pretty clear that if I didn’t do certain things I could find favor with GOD. So I tried. And tried. But …

I can’t do anything to “win” God’s love. It is free. It is a gift. I didn’t earn it.

Jesus, our Master, paid the price to win it for me. It is that straightforward. That is what “grace” means. It is a gift. I can’t do anything to get access to it.

“Just because something is technically legal doesn’t mean that it’s spiritually appropriate.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 6, Apostle Paul Sayings, Law, Love

Paul has just given a very lengthy rant on why followers of Jesus shouldn’t file civil claims against one another. He believes that Christians should judge each other and not leave it up to the civil court system.

The big picture summary is that I need to learn the difference between what is legal and what is right in God’s eyes. My judge is Jesus. I need to focus on pleasing him and not pleasing others. The spiritual law is the law of love. Am I loving God? Am I loving everyone I come in contact with? That is God’s goal for me.

I know many times a day I am not showing love. Showing love is what I need to worry about. Whether I am demonstrating love is what I will be judged on.

Jesus is very clear about this in his legacy of his words recorded by 4 of his followers.

“Just because something is technically legal doesn’t mean that it’s spiritually appropriate. If I went around doing whatever I thought I could get by with, I’d be a slave to my whims.” ~Apostle Paul

Source: 1 Corinthians 6:12

Judge

“The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Colossians 4, God's Goal, Jesus, Repent, Wisdom

The Apostle Paul, full of the wisdom of Jesus the Messiah, has given us insight into God’s goal for us.

• Do I need to change my mind?  I am to use my head. I should think things through. I should change my mind (aka repent).
• Whose country am I a citizen of? I should recognize that i am a citizen of God’s country (aka the Kingdom of God). I live and work among outsiders.
• What about wisdom? I shouldn’t miss a trick. God will give me wisdom. I should us it for God’s advantage.
• What is God’s goal? God is going to give me opportunities. God is in a good mood. I should focus on bringing out the best in others. I should never put them down. God’s goal is for me to love. Love is kind and thoughtful.

“Use your heads as you live and work among outsiders. Don’t miss a trick. Make the most of every opportunity. Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out.” ~Apostle Paul

Source: Colossians 4:5-6

“Don’t think that you can be wise merely by being up-to-date with the times. Be God’s fool—that’s the path to true wisdom.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 3, Apostle Paul Sayings, Fool, Jesus, Smart, Wisdom

Do I think I am wise by being up-to-date with the times?  If I do, I am being very foolish. That doesn’t mean anything to God.

• Am I fooling myself? It is highly likely I am. Being up to date doesn’t make me wise. I am being lulled into thinking otherwise.
• Is this a good thing? I really enjoy my “news reader” on the internet. I keep up with 100’s of stuff (feeds) a day. I am on Facebook, Twitter, Yammer, LinkedIn, email, etc. I am hyper-connected.
• Does this make us wise? Others follow the news on TV or radio all the time. We all have our versions of how we keep up. We can be up to date in real time. “Breaking news”!! We can know so much. If we think that makes us wise, we are in for a rude awakening. Such thinking is actually foolish. God’s ways are different.
• What is God’s goal for me? God wants me to be his fool. Seriously. How much time do I spend connected to Jesus and what Jesus is thinking? Really, compared to my connections to this world, how much time do I  spend connected to His world? God’s goal for us is that we should be wise. His wisdom, manifest through us, is all that matters.

“Don’t fool yourself. Don’t think that you can be wise merely by being up-to-date with the times. Be God’s fool—that’s the path to true wisdom. What the world calls smart, God calls stupid. It’s written in Scripture, He exposes the chicanery of the chic.  The Master sees through the smoke screens of the know-it-alls.” ~Apostle Paul

Source: 1 Corinthians 3:18-20

 May I connect with Him and know what He is thinking.

“God not only knows what he’s thinking, but he lets us in on it.” ~~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 2, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Thoughts

We know what we are thinking. We do it every minute of our waking hours. A steady stream of thoughts.

• Most of the time no one else has a clue what we are thinking. We are mystery to others including those we are closest to.
• That is the same with God with one huge difference. God knows what He is thinking BUT He lets us in on it. He doesn’t hide what He is thinking from us.  We have Good News from Him all the time if we listen. He has a plan. He is revealing it to us every day. 
• How amazing that God loves us so much that He lets us in on what He is thinking, what He wants to do and how He wants to do it. Jesus, the Messiah, has a goal for us. God is going to let us in on it.

May we know it and do it.

Who ever knows what you’re thinking and planning except you yourself? The same with God—except that he not only knows what he’s thinking, but he lets us in on it.” ~~Apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 2)

“Does it sound like we’re patting ourselves on the back, insisting on our credentials, asserting our authority?” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 3, Apostle Paul Sayings, Authority, Credentials, Focus, Jesus

Recommendations. Endorsements. Credentials. References. Likes.  The way of this world.

• Is this God’s way? It is definitely not.
• Should I be focused on the ways of the past? No, I should be focused on how great God is. I should be focused on the fruit that the Holy Spirit is producing in my life. The results that the Holy Spirit brings is the only “reference” I should need.
• It isn’t asserting my own authority that means anything. It is God’s authority, made clear by His Holy Spirit, that makes a difference. The Spirit of God and the fruit of changed lives is all I  need. This is the present.
• Endorsements, etc. are the past. What is happening now is what is important. What is God saying today? What is God doing today?

Does it sound like we’re patting ourselves on the back, insisting on our credentials, asserting our authority? Well, we’re not. Neither do we need letters of endorsement, either to you or from you. You yourselves are all the endorsement we need. Your very lives are a letter that anyone can read by just looking at you. The Messiah himself wrote it—not with ink, but with God’s living Spirit; not chiseled into stone, but carved into human lives—and we publish it. ~~2 Corinthians 3:1-3

May I live today in the power of God’s Spirit and His authority.

May that be all I need.

“Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Encouragement, Ephesians 6, God's Word, Jesus, Prayer, Spiritual Weapons

The Apostle Paul is wrapping up his letter to the Ephesians. There are many things we need to do. He has a good summary for me.

• Use every weapon Jesus has given us. We have a lot at our disposal. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation must be applied in my life.
• God’s word is a great weapon. This is his living word and his written word. I can use it against my enemy, the evil one.
• Prayer is not to be ignored. When I am faced with evil, I can talk with God and he will hear me.
• Finally, I am to encourage my brothers and sisters in the Master Jesus. I am to help keep their spirits up.

Be prepared. You’re up against far more than you can handle on your own. Take all the help you can get, every weapon God has issued, so that when it’s all over but the shouting you’ll still be on your feet. Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation are more than words. Learn how to apply them. You’ll need them throughout your life. God’s Word is an indispensable weapon. In the same way, prayer is essential in this ongoing warfare. Pray hard and long. Pray for your brothers and sisters. Keep your eyes open. Keep each other’s spirits up so that no one falls behind or drops out.

Source: Ephesians 6:13-18

“God is strong, and he wants you strong.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Ephesians 6, God is Great, Jesus, Strong

Some things are amazingly simple with God. Here are a few of them.

• God is strong. Nothing weak about him at all. Like the energizer bunny he just keeps going and going. He is always strong. He never sleeps. He doesn’t grow tired. He has always been strong and always will be. 
• God’s desire for me. God’s goal is that I will always be strong as well. He sent Jesus to die for me and so I can share in the power of His resurrection. That God has desires for me is very powerful.
• Jesus gave His mighty Spirit so I can be strong. Jesus has given us all the weapons I need to be victorious. God is great.

So there!!!

“God is strong, and he wants you strong.” ~Apostle Paul

Source: Ephesians 6:10

May we always be strong, just as He is. God is great. His power and strength is astounding.

“I couldn’t be more pleased—I’m so confident and proud of you.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 7, Apostle Paul Sayings, Confidence, Jesus, Pleased, Proud

Confidence in others

As we start out on the journey with Jesus, it helps to have leaders who inspire us. Sure, I need discipline, but I also need to know when I am on the right track. The Apostle Paul shows me how to lead:

• Leaders let us know they are pleased with what we are doing.
• Leaders are confident that we are going to make it.
• Leaders are proud of what we do.

Of course, this all starts with God. God is in a good mood and is proud of us.

“And then, when we saw how Titus felt—his exuberance over your response—our joy doubled. It was wonderful to see how revived and refreshed he was by everything you did. If I went out on a limb in telling Titus how great I thought you were, you didn’t cut off that limb. As it turned out, I hadn’t exaggerated one bit. Titus saw for himself that everything I had said about you was true. He can’t quit talking about it, going over again and again the story of your prompt obedience, and the dignity and sensitivity of your hospitality. He was quite overwhelmed by it all! And I couldn’t be more pleased—I’m so confident and proud of you.”

~Apostle Paul

Source: 2 Corinthians 7:13-17

“Thanking God over and over for you is not only a pleasure; it’s a must.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Thessalonians 1, Apostle Paul Sayings, Faith, Love, Thanks

What do I have on my to do list for the day?

What must I do?

Thanking God should be at the top of my list every day. When I thank God, particularly for others, I will love them. I can’t thank God for all the good in someone else and then hate them can I?

Nope, can’t be done.

Thanking God over and over for you is the key!

You need to know, friends, that thanking God over and over for you is not only a pleasure; it’s a must. We have to do it. Your faith is growing phenomenally; your love for each other is developing wonderfully. Why, it’s only right that we give thanks. We’re so proud of you; you’re so steady and determined in your faith despite all the hard times that have come down on you. We tell everyone we meet in the churches all about you. 2 Thessalonians 1:3-4

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

Tags

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.

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

Tags

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

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

Tags

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

“You are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Ephesians 2, Family, Good News, Household, Jesus, Love

In our family, like most families, being a “member of the household” means something special!

It means you walk right into the house without knocking. It means family members wait up for you when you are out late. It means that you are cared for enough that somebody wants to know where you’re going, when you will be back and reminds you to “be safe.” It means you get a kiss when you go out the door in the morning. That’s what being a member of the household means.

The Good News is that we are members of God’s household. And it’s the very same way at His House only better. So go on right in!

And don’t forget to yell “I’m HOME!!!” Jesus is so very glad to see you!

Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household.”  -Ephesians 2:19

"Tell those rich in this world’s wealth to quit being so full of themselves and so obsessed with money." ~~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Timothy 6, Apostle Paul Sayings, Extravagant, Jesus, Messiah, Money, Rich

I want to go after God. He is the rich one, not me. He can pile it on.

Jesus, the Messiah, doesn’t hold back. Like Jesus, I want to be extravagantly generous. What I have is really nothing compared to Him. He is the one. What a great new plan He is executing.

I need to be intentional about investing my heart and life in what truly matters.

I need to obsess about God’s desires and not my desires for money.

I need to go after God.

I need to pursue treasures that last.

Here is the plan:

• Go after God
• Do good every day
• Be rich in helping others
• Be extravagantly generous

Now that is a good plan.

Tell those rich in this world’s wealth to quit being so full of themselves and so obsessed with money, which is here today and gone tomorrow. Tell them to go after God, who piles on all the riches we could ever manage—to do good, to be rich in helping others, to be extravagantly generous. If they do that, they’ll build a treasury that will last, gaining life that is truly life. 1 Timothy 6:17-19 MSG

“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

"Be cheerful no matter what." ~~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Thessalonians 5, Apostle Paul Sayings, Cheerful, Thanks

Be Thankful

Pretty good advise from Paul.

Being appreciative and cheerful of what God is doing in my live is so important.

Paul got it.

Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to the Messiah Jesus to live.

Apostle Paul – Source: 1 Thessalonians 5:18

May I get it as well.

“The Message is accessible and welcoming to everyone, across the board.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Ephesians 3, Good News, Help, Jesus, Messiah, Welcome

Everyone is welcome in God’s world. We don’t naturally understand it or how it works but it is true. It is a great mystery. No matter if you have gone to church your whole life or never set foot in the door. We all stand on the same ground.

We all have the same offer of good news to enter God’s world. We all get the same help from a God for whom nothing is impossible.

All of the promises that Jesus made are ours. No favoritism to the religious. Those sitting at the bar are just as welcome. There is nothing we have “to do”.

Now that is some good news from a God that is in a good mood.

As you read over what I have written to you, you’ll be able to see for yourselves into the mystery of the Messiah. None of our ancestors understood this. Only in our time has it been made clear by God’s Spirit through his holy apostles and prophets of this new order. The mystery is that people who have never heard of God and those who have heard of him all their lives (what I’ve been calling outsiders and insiders) stand on the same ground before God. They get the same offer, same help, same promises in the  Messiah Jesus. The Message is accessible and welcoming to everyone, across the board. Ephesians 3:4-6

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

Tags

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 

 

 

 

“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

Tags

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

“Jesus love was not cautious but extravagant.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Cautious, Ephesians 5, Extravagant, Learn, Love

Jesus love is extravagant!! It is absolutely over the top and He never holds back at all. Mostly what my heavenly Father does is love me.

He is not cautiously waiting to see if I love him back. When I don’t spend time with Him He still loves me. Extravagantly!!

When I keep company with Jesus, I learn to love like he does. His love is the kind that is giving not looking for anything in return.

May I spend more time with Jesus. May I watch what He does and then do it myself.

Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how the Messiah loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn’t love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that. Ephesians 5

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

Tags

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

“I was convinced at the time I wrote it that what was best for me was also best for you.” ~~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 2, Apostle Paul Sayings, Love, Obedience, Tears

Obey God

What is the best thing to do? What does God want? Do I pray first or just do what I want?

Paul has a heart for what is best for his brothers and sisters. He really wanted to see them. He decided to write to them to express his ideas rather than visit. His entire motivation was love and concern. 

Do I do what is best or do I act selfishly satisfying my own needs?

That was my reason for writing a letter instead of coming—so I wouldn’t have to spend a miserable time disappointing the very friends I had looked forward to cheering me up. I was convinced at the time I wrote it that what was best for me was also best for you. As it turned out, there was pain enough just in writing that letter, more tears than ink on the parchment. But I didn’t write it to cause pain; I wrote it so you would know how much I care—oh, more than care—love you! (2 Corinthians 2:3 The Message)

 

“I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Ephesians 3, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Riches, Wealth

Money

God is amazingly wealthy. Jesus has riches beyond what we can even imagine. The power to tap into His strength is through His Spirit. It starts with faith in my heart.

This should be my prayer for all our brothers and sisters in the Messiah. May I pray this prayer for each other and myself.

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that the Messiah may dwell in your hearts through faith. Ephesians 3:16-17

May I be strong, powerful and rich through His Spirit.

“What if some did not have faith?” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Faith, Jesus, Romans 3

You know, this is my favorite part of all. It doesn’t matter if I am up or down. Happy or sad. Skeptical or unquestioning. Even if I don’t have faith, God is always faithful. Nothing can change that all. He will always love me.
 
God is God and God is faithful.

He always has been. He is today. He always will be. 

What if some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God’s faithfulness? Not at all! Romans 3:3-4

“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self- control.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Timothy 1, Apostle Paul Sayings, Fear, Love, Power, Self-Control

Give me God’s power

How easy is it to focus on what God doesn’t do for me? Way too easy. I get distracted. The “shiny object” grabs my attention and diverts me. It happens a lot.

The big thing Jesus never gives me is fear or worry. That is NEVER as in not at all. Worry is not from Jesus.

What Jesus does gives me is power. That is POWER in a big way. Jesus has given me His Holy Spirit.

And Jesus gives me love. When I don’t know how or even can’t find it in me, Jesus shows me the way.

But here is the kicker. I need self control to get to where God wants me to be. He gives me self-control as well. And oh how I need self-control.

How amazing is that?  VERY. God is so very good.

Power

Love.

Self-control.

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self- control.” 2 Timothy 1:7

“God can do anything. Far more than you could ever imagine.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Ephesians 3, Holy Spirit, Jesus

I have ideas. I imagine “what if”.

Some of this stuff is pretty cool!!

Do these ideas seem to be far fetched sometimes? Yes, they do.

God can do anything.

Jesus, the Messiah, can go way beyond my ideas, my dreams. And, He does it through His Spirit which is already at work within me. Wow!!!

God can do anything, you know—far more than you could ever imagine or guess or request in your wildest dreams! He does it not by pushing us around but by working within us, his Spirit deeply and gently within us. Ephesians3:20

May I not limit God to my ideas.

May I lean in to hear what He has in mind.

“Anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 5, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Messiah, New Life, New Year

Today is a new year and so we celebrate.

Today, in Jesus, we get a fresh start and are created new in him.

Now, that is some good news.

Because of Jesus, welcome to a new Michael.

Because of this decision we don’t evaluate people by what they have or how they look. We looked at the Messiah that way once and got it all wrong, as you know. We certainly don’t look at him that way anymore. Now we look inside, and what we see is that anyone united with the Messiah gets a fresh start, is created new. The old life is gone; a new life burgeons!

Look at it! All this comes from the God who settled the relationship between us and him, and then called us to settle our relationships with each other. God put the world square with himself through the Messiah, giving the world a fresh start by offering forgiveness of sins. God has given us the task of telling everyone what he is doing. We’re Christ’s representatives. God uses us to persuade men and women to drop their differences and enter into God’s work of making things right between them. We’re speaking for the Messiah himself now: Become friends with God; he’s already a friend with you.

Source: 2 Corinthians 5:17-20 MSG – Because of this decision we don’t – Bible Gateway

“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

“Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Alert, Apostle Paul Sayings, Cheerful, Jesus, Master, Romans 12

Having a passion for the things of God is a huge thing. It is easy to get burnt out.

So much to do, so little time. So many that need God’s touch, through us. I must keep myself passionate for His world. I have to keep gas in the car.

God’s goal for me is to be a cheerful servant. I am to be happy to obey God. There is great joy in service. My role is to be happy.

Don’t burn out; keep yourselves fueled and aflame. Be alert servants of the Master, cheerfully expectant. Romans 12:11

May I be cheerfully expectant that God can keep my gas tank full and passionate about life.

“Cultivate thankfulness.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Colossians 3, Jesus, Messiah, Peace, Thanks, Thanksgiving

Cultivate

Thankfulness doesn’t just appear on the scene all on its own. Some days it is easier than others to be thankful.

Thankfulness requires work. It must be cultivated.

Our goal, from our Master Jesus, is to thank God every step of the way. Everything is done in the name Jesus and every thought has thanks at its root.

Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. Let the Word of the Messiah—the Message—have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God the Father every step of the way.

Source: Colossians 3:15 MSG – Let the peace of Christ keep you in – Bible Gateway

"Don’t waver. Stay on track, steady in God." ~~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Discipline, Jesus, Messiah, Philippians 4, Steady

Here is some great advise from the Apostle Paul. The best he can wish for us is that we stay on track and that we are steady in God. Persistence and discipline are amazing when it comes to knowing God.

How often do we start something to not finish it? My life is littered with great intentions and false starts. What happened to that diet? Why did I quit exercising?

One of the greatest tragedies in the old plan were men of God who started well but finished poorly.

So … the best for us is that we stay on track and don’t waiver. Steady is the way of God’s new plan for us through his son Jesus, the Messiah.

My dear, dear friends! I love you so much. I do want the very best for you. You make me feel such joy, fill me with such pride. Don’t waver. Stay on track, steady in God. Philippians 4:1

“Be a good citizen.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Authority, Citizen, Fear, Kingdom of God, Peace, Romans 13

Kingdom of God

I am a citizen of the country of God. Jesus is in charge. Jesus is my absolute ruler.

The United States of America is a government under God. I should be a good citizen which I interpret to mean I should vote. I will.

God will have his way, ultimately, no matter who is elected. God has a plan and it will be accomplished. God knows who is going to be elected. I can relax. I can be at peace.

Jesus, his son, is in control of God’s country. That is what matters.

Be a good citizen. All governments are under God. Insofar as there is peace and order, it’s God’s order. So live responsibly as a citizen. If you’re irresponsible to the state, then you’re irresponsible with God, and God will hold you responsible. Duly constituted authorities are only a threat if you’re trying to get by with something. Decent citizens should have nothing to fear.

Source: Romans 13:1 MSG – To Be a Responsible Citizen – Be a good – Bible Gateway

“You are the temple of God, and God himself is present in you.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 3, Apostle Paul Sayings, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Temple

Temple of God

This is stunning and over the top. I am not what I think I am some times. In fact, Paul reminds me that I am, in fact, the temple of God and God is present in me.

This is rather startling and amazing. God is present in me. Do I always act  that way? Clearly not.

If I always believed that I wouldn’t vandalize what is His.

Simple. Straightforward. Clear.

You realize, don’t you, that you are the temple of God, and God himself is present in you? No one will get by with vandalizing God’s temple, you can be sure of that. God’s temple is sacred—and you, remember, are the temple. 

Source: 1 Corinthians 3:16-17

 

 May I believe, think and act knowing that God himself 

is present in me.

“Don’t waste your time on useless work, mere busywork, the barren pursuits of darkness.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Ephesians 5, Jesus, Light, Messiah, Time, Work

I am interested in how much of my time is “mere busywork”. Now stuff has to get done; there is laundry, cleaning, dishes and meals.

I don’t think that is what the Apostle Paul means. There are times where I have “the chance” to do what “the Master wants” as opposed to the dark world where the enemy entices me to do what I want.

What choice do I make? Each day is made of these moments.

• Am I evaluating my time in the light of what the Master wants?
• Is this what God wants me to do right now?
• When I am not doing what God wants, do I see that as a fraud to the way He wants me live?

May I drink huge droughts of the Spirit of God. May I understand what the Master wants.

Don’t waste your time on useless work, mere busywork, the barren pursuits of darkness. Expose these things for the sham they are. It’s a scandal when people waste their lives on things they must do in the darkness where no one will see. Rip the cover off those frauds and see how attractive they look in the light of the Messiah.

Wake up from your sleep, Climb out of your coffins; the Messiah will show you the light! So watch your step. Use your head. Make the most of every chance you get. These are desperate times!

Don’t live carelessly, unthinkingly. Make sure you understand what the Master wants.

Don’t drink too much wine. That cheapens your life. Drink the Spirit of God, huge draughts of him. Sing hymns instead of drinking songs! Sing songs from your heart to Christ. Sing praises over everything, any excuse for a song to God the Father in the name of our Master, Jesus the Messiah.

Source: Ephesians 5:15-20

“First Jesus and who he is; then Jesus and what he did—Jesus crucified.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 2, Apostle Paul Sayings, Crucifixion, Jesus, Philosophy, Simplicity

Jesus challenges us

Oh how we value the articulate and charismatic preachers. The powerful of this world. The smart ones. The bright ones. The good looking ones.

That is not God’s way. That doesn’t impress Jesus.

There is a simplicity in telling others the good news about Jesus.

God’s power and the Holy Spirit is in the simplicity of that message. When we step into His way we won’t struggle with how good we sound.

We don’t have to. Jesus will use our simple words to convict and bring others to Him.

You’ll remember, friends, that when I first came to you to let you in on God’s master stroke, I didn’t try to impress you with polished speeches and the latest philosophy. I deliberately kept it plain and simple: first Jesus and who he is; then Jesus and what he did—Jesus crucified. 1 Corinthians 2:1-2

“May the God of green hope fill you up with joy.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Energy, Holy Spirit, Hope, Jesus, Joy, Peace, Romans 15

Hope

Jesus calls on me to be a person of hope.

God gives me the Holy Spirit so I can brim over with hope.

God is the God of hope. I am eager to receive the gifts of God. God will be faithful and they will all be mine.

With God’s hope in me, I am at peace. There is a calm that I have that energizes me.

Oh! May the God of green hope fill you up with joy, fill you up with peace, so that your believing lives, filled with the life-giving energy of the Holy Spirit, will brim over with hope!

Source: Romans 15:7 MSG – So reach out and welcome one another to – Bible Gateway

“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

“I’m going to keep that celebration going because I know how it’s going to turn out.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Death, Good News, Jesus, Life, Messiah, Philippians 1

Eternal Life

I know the end of the story. I know that Jesus is the anointed one of God and is in charge. Victory is his and will be mine as well.

Life vs. Death?

It doesn’t matter. It is not even the question.

It is life vs. more life!

So how am I to respond? I’ve decided that I really don’t care about their motives, whether mixed, bad, or indifferent. Every time one of them opens his mouth, the Messiah is proclaimed, so I just cheer them on!

And I’m going to keep that celebration going because I know how it’s going to turn out. Through your faithful prayers and the generous response of the Spirit of Jesus the Messiah, everything he wants to do in and through me will be done. I can hardly wait to continue on my course. I don’t expect to be embarrassed in the least. On the contrary, everything happening to me in this jail only serves to make the Messiah more accurately known, regardless of whether I live or die. They didn’t shut me up; they gave me a pulpit! Alive, I’m the Messiah’s messenger; dead, I’m his bounty. Life versus even more life! I can’t lose.

Source: Philippians 1:21 MSG – So how am I to respond? I’ve decided – 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

“Be cheerful, no matter what.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Thessalonians 5, Apostle Paul Sayings, Cheerful, Jesus, Pray, Simple, Thankful

I have been focusing more and more on simplicity. I have been trying to reduce many complex issues down to no more than three ideas. Simple, however, does not mean easy or easy to do. I am discovering in fact, many times even three things can be tough to execute.

So Paul had three things he suggested to do. Simple? Yes, but not easy. In 1 Thessalonians 5:16 -18 he suggested them. This is the version from The Message translation.

1. Be cheerful no matter what
2. pray all the time
3. thank God no matter what happens

 

This is the way God wants you who belong to the Messiah Jesus to live.

Starting in reverse makes a difference I have discovered. So how does God want me to live? To thank God no matter what happens.

Really? No matter what happens; thank God. Well, if I am doing that (not easy), I will be praying all the time. Non stop because in the course of the day a lot happens and thanking God for all that happens will have me praying tons.

So if I thank God no matter what happens which has me praying all the time, I will be cheerful no matter what.

When I do it, wow it is so very powerful. When I don’t I have come to discover I am not the same person.

So … the challenge is focus more and more.

“Be God’s fool — that’s the path to true wisdom.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 3, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Master, Messiah, Wisdom

Social Media

I really enjoy my “news reader” on the internet. I keep up with 100′s of stuff (feeds) a day. I am on Facebook, Twitter, Yammer, LinkedIn, email, etc.

I am hyper-connected. Others follow the news on TV or radio all the time. We all have our versions of how we keep up.

We can be up to date in real time. “Breaking news”!!

We can know so much. If we think that makes us wise, we are in for a rude awakening. Such thinking is actually foolish. God’s ways are different.

How much time do we spend connected to Him and what He is thinking?

Really, compared to our connections to this world, how much time do we spend connected to His world?

Don’t fool yourself. Don’t think that you can be wise merely by being up-to-date with the times. Be God’s fool—that’s the path to true wisdom. What the world calls smart, God calls stupid. It’s written in Scripture, He exposes the chicanery of the chic.  The Master sees through the smoke screens of the know-it-alls.

Source: 1 Corinthians 3:18-20

May I connect with God and know what He is thinking.

“He could show up any minute!” ~~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Philippians 4, Second Coming

Jesus Messiah

Paul lived as if Jesus could show up any minute. He believed it in his core. His passion, every minute, was about Jesus.

Paul challenges us to live the same way. Do I believe Jesus, the Messiah, could show up any minute now? Will it make a difference in what I do today?

God is God. God knows the time when that will happen. We do not. In the meantime, I must love God today. I must love everyone else I encounter today.

May I have the passion for my Jesus that I live like today is the day He will physically come back to reign on earth.

He could show up any minute!

~Apostle Paul (Philippians 4:5 The Message)

“But you’ve seen and heard God’s wisdom because God, by his Spirit, has brought it all out into the open before you.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 2, Apostle Paul, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Wisdom

God’s Wisdom

We have God’s wisdom in our life. The amazing Spirit of God leads us.

That is amazing. While we don’t always understand everything, we have a leg up on the average Joe in gaining insight into how God works. It isn’t because of anything we have done but it is a gift from God. It is for our benefit and for the benefit of God’s people.

It is interesting that the world we live in doesn’t see this.

But you’ve seen and heard God’s wisdom because God, by his Spirit, has brought it all out into the open before you.” ~ Apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 2:9 The Message)

“We keep getting reports on your steady faith in the Messiah Jesus, and the love you continuously extend to all Christians.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Colossians 1, Faith, Jesus, Love, Messiah

What is worth reporting on, in Paul’s opinion? It is all about the love we show to others. That is it. There is nothing else.

It isn’t the new church building. It is not how moving the Worship Team sang the new song. It isn’t new car we just bought. It isn’t the college our oldest just go into.

There are only two ways to get God’s attention. Love Him and love everyone we know and meet.

That is how our faith in Jesus is demonstrated. It is only about love. That is all that counts.

We keep getting reports on your steady faith in the Messiah Jesus, and the love you continuously extend to all Christians.

~Apostle Paul (Colossians 1:4 The Message)

“I can’t believe your fickleness.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul, Apostle Paul Sayings, Galatians 1, Grace, Jesus, Messiah

We don’t like to think about it but there are a number of messages delivered by men of God that aren’t good news. There are many that are at odds with the gift of grace that the Messiah Jesus has bestowed on us.

It happens easily.

It only shows our fickleness when we believe them.

We need to know what the message of good news is. We need to stick with it. We must reject anything else.

May we stand firm today.

I can’t believe your fickleness—how easily you have turned traitor to him who called you by the grace of the Messiah by embracing a variant message!”

~~Apostle Paul (Galatians 1:6 The Message)

“This signet (the Holy Spirit) from God is the first installment on what’s coming.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul, Apostle Paul Sayings, Ephesians 1, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Messiah

Holy Spirit Signet

God has given us the Holy Spirit. That is a sign of His authority in our life.

Jesus has left us with power, His power. That is an amazing thing. What a great God we have.

And, that is not all.

The Holy Spirit in our life is only the beginning. God has so many wonderful things in store for us. And we will receive them all. Not a one will be withheld from us.

The Holy Spirit in our life is the sign of all the glory to come.

This signet (the Holy Spirit) from God is the first installment on what’s coming, a reminder that we’ll get everything God has planned for us, a praising and glorious life. 

~Apostle Paul (Ephesians 1:14 The Message)

“That was my reason for writing a letter instead of coming.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 2, Apostle Paul, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Letter

Letter

Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians was very direct. He was concerned about what was hearing. Sometimes a clearly written message can be more effective than a visit. Plus, it can be reread many, many times when the spoken word cannot.

Are we concerned about something? Have we spent months writing a clear and compelling message? Even if it isn’t sent, do we care enough to get that clear?

That was my reason for writing a letter instead of coming—so I wouldn’t have to spend a miserable time disappointing the very friends I had looked forward to cheering me up. ” ~~Apostle Paul (2 Corinthians 2:3 The Message)

“So what difference does it make who’s religious and who isn’t?” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Messiah, Romans 3

God’s Goal

It isn’t about who was raised in the church and has a religious background. Paul is clear on that.

If the training leads to following our Master Jesus, the Messiah, that is great. It is not about the training. It is about doing what God wants. Every day!!

The mistake the religious make is to believe it is simply about showing up. God has a goal in mind for us. It is not about just showing up. It is about obedience. God wants us to love.

It is not about going to church. It is about having a passion for Jesus and doing what He wants us to.

It is about obedience.

It is about having a heart for God.

It is about living a free life basking in how good God is.

So what difference does it make who’s religious and who isn’t, who has been trained in God’s ways and who hasn’t? As it turns out, it makes a lot of difference—but not the difference so many have assumed.!” ~~Apostle Paul (Romans 3:1)

“Help them see that the Master is about to arrive.” ~~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Philippians 4, Second Coming

Victory in Jesus

Paul is clear. Jesus is about to arrive.

Jesus was also clear. No one knows the time that will happen. That is God’s business. God is God.

Is this a conflict?

I don’t think so. This is the way we should live. What if Jesus does come back soon? Are we living the way He wants us to?

Should we live like it won’t be soon? Not hardly.

Help them see that the Master is about to arrive.” ~~Apostle Paul  (Philippians 4:5 The Message) 

“First Jesus and who he is; then Jesus and what he did—Jesus crucified.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Corinthians 2, Jesus, Plain, Simple

Jesus on the cross

It is so easy to get carried away. Paul had tried polished speeches before. Not much happened (this is detailed in the book of Acts). Am I depending on my cleverness or God’s power?

In God’s new plan, the order of the day is to depend on him. Plain and simple makes way for Him to do His work in people.

May I keep it plain. May I keep it simple. God will make it effective. That is His job.

You’ll remember, friends, that when I first came to you to let you in on God’s master stroke, I didn’t try to impress you with polished speeches and the latest philosophy. I deliberately kept it plain and simple: first Jesus and who he is; then Jesus and what he did—Jesus crucified.

1 Corinthians 2:2 

“If they had a clue about God’s eternal plan, they wouldn’t have killed the Master of the God-designed life on a cross.” ~ Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 2, Apostle Paul Sayings, Crucifixion, Jesus, Life

Jesus challenges us

We have lots of experts. And that is sometimes a good thing. The problem is that most experts don’t have a clue about what God’s eternal plan is.

And we shouldn’t expect them to but we do exalt their opinion beyond what we should. These experts existed when Jesus was here on earth. The didn’t have a clue then either.

It would have been impossible to kill Jesus if we understood what God intends. But we have all missed God’s goal for our life.

We would have killed him as well. No point blaming others. Jesus was the master of the life that God designed for us. And he was killed on a cross so that we could live that same way He did.

Imagine that.

“If they had a clue about God’s eternal plan, they wouldn’t have killed the Master of the God-designed life on a cross.” ~~ Apostle Paul (1 Corinthians 2:9 The Message)

“We can’t quit thanking God our Father and Jesus our Messiah for you!” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

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

Be Thankful

I have a job to do. I must continue and continue to thank God for those I have relationships with. I must not quit.

Being thankful forces me to see and love my friends and family in a different way. Thankfulness is at the heart of relationships.

And taking it further, have I told everyone why I am thankful for them? Do they know why?

We can’t quit thanking God our Father and Jesus our Messiah for you!” ~Apostle Paul (Colossians 1:3 The Message)

“God’s plan is that we all experience that rescue.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Galations 1, Good News, Jesus, Plan, Rescue

Jesus has rescued me from this evil world I’m in by offering himself as a sacrifice for my missing God’s goal for my life. That is good news. That is stunning in the scope of what that does in my life.

That is the kind of news that a loving Father can deliver. And that is the kind of Father we have. We have been rescued. Jesus did it for us.

God has a plan for us. It is a great plan. That plan starts with our rescue. That is not the end. That is the beginning.

We all need to have that experience. We need it every day.

I, Paul, and my companions in faith here, send greetings to the Galatian churches. My authority for writing to you does not come from any popular vote of the people, nor does it come through the appointment of some human higher-up. It comes directly from Jesus the Messiah and God the Father, who raised him from the dead. I’m God-commissioned. So I greet you with the great words, grace and peace! We know the meaning of those words because Jesus Christ rescued us from this evil world we’re in by offering himself as a sacrifice for our sins. God’s plan is that we all experience that rescue. Glory to God forever! Oh, yes!

Source: Apostle Paul — Galatians 1:1-5

“It’s in the Messiah that you found yourselves home free—signed, sealed, and delivered by the Holy Spirit.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Ephesians 1, Freedom, Good News, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Messiah

Jesus is the Truth

Do I see that I have finished the most difficult part? In the salvation that Jesus offers me, I’m not quite there yet but I am home free.

The hard part is behind me. I have the Holy Spirit now and I am on my way to maturity in God.

What brings this about? We have heard the truth. That is the starting point.

And, having heard it, we believe the good news. We no longer listen to our enemy. We know that Jesus, the Messiah, has saved us from missing God’s goal for us.

We are home free.

It’s in the Messiah that you, once you heard the truth and believed it (this Message of  good news of your salvation), found yourselves home free—signed, sealed, and delivered by the Holy Spirit.

~Apostle Paul (Ephesians 1:13 The Message) 

“We want you to be as proud of us as we are of you when we stand together before our Master Jesus.” ~~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 1, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Love, Messiah, Proud

Will I be proud when I stand before Jesus?

That is a stunning question. Think about it. Will I?

Do I live in His love or ashamed?

Do I live in condemnation, because of my enemy?

The answer is a resounding NO! Jesus has freed me from my life of missing God’s goal. I am living a new life.

May I live in His love. May I know how proud He is of me. May I know it in my soul.

We want you to be as proud of us as we are of you when we stand together before our Master Jesus.

Source: Apostle Paul (2 Corinthians 1:14 The Message)

Am I worshiping the wrong thing?

Tags

Apostle Paul, Apostle Paul Sayings, Romans 1, Worship

Wave arms in worship

We worship everything but God. I trust in my 401k. When I am in financial trouble, I have a credit card (or 2).

And when I think about it, what sense does it make? How can I compare, for example, the creator of the universe with some cheap imitation?

I know, at my core, who to worship. The enemy seduces me into not paying attention and worshiping something else. God is God. God has no equal.

May I know who God is.

May I worship Him and not some cheap imitation.

They traded the glory of God who holds the whole world in his hands for cheap figurines you can buy at any roadside stand.

~Apostle Paul (Romans 1:23 The Message)

“It was God who kept us focused on him, uncompromised.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 1, Apostle Paul Sayings, Focus, Jesus, Master, Messiah

I like to think I can focus and sometimes I get close. I try hard. I want to be courageous. “I think I can.”

It doesn’t work. I know it doesn’t.

At the end of the day, it is God who keeps me focused on Him. No doubt about it. In an uncompromising way every day. Jesus challenges me to trust him and not myself. Jesus is my Master.

“When we speak to you we’re not after crowd approval—only God approval.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Thessalonians 2, Apostle Paul Sayings, Good News, Jesus, Message, Messiah

Message from God

I don’t get to just present the message of God without passing the tests. I must be sure I am presenting the right teaching of Jesus the Messiah. It can’t be my message. It must be the good news of the redeeming power of Jesus.

I must have the right motivation in presenting the message. I can’t be looking for crowd approval. The only thing that matters is what God thinks.

I can’t have a hidden agenda. I must present the message of God free of error. Only by being tested can I have confidence that it is the right message.

God is in a good mood. God is looking for men and women who will bring the message of good news to a world devoid of hope.

God tested us thoroughly to make sure we were qualified to be trusted with this Message. Be assured that when we speak to you we’re not after crowd approval—only God approval. Since we’ve been put through that battery of tests, you’re guaranteed that both we and the Message are free of error, mixed motives, or hidden agendas. We never used words to butter you up. No one knows that better than you. And God knows we never used words as a smoke screen to take advantage of you.

~Apostle Paul – Source: 1 Thessalonians 2:3-5 (The Message Bible)

“We need to decide when our brothers and sisters are out of line and, if necessary, clean house.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 5, Apostle Paul Sayings, Believers, Church, Jesus, Judge

Judge

I have to be a witness to the good news that Jesus offers to everyone, no matter their background. I am called to love. That is the goal that Jesus has in mind for me. Jesus hung out with “the sinners”.

Our attitude about believers who keep missing God’s goal (sin) is different. God holds us, as followers of Jesus the Messiah, to a very high standard. The community of believers (not me individually) has to deal with unacceptable behavior.

“Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.” ~Apostle Paul (Philippians 2)

Tags

Agree, Apostle Paul Sayings, Care, Help, Jesus, Love, Philippians 2

Agreement

Following Jesus should make a difference in how I live my life. I need to have a heart and care deeply with my brothers and sisters in Jesus. God’s goal for me is to love and care.

I need to cultivate a spirit of agreement. It should never be about who is right. Agreement comes out of love. I really need to get this.

Love drives me to be friends and put myself aside. I must focus on helping others get ahead and becoming all that Jesus wants them to be.

There are some days when I obsess about what I want and why getting what I want is important. What I want is not important at all. My job is to help. That is all.

If you’ve gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deep-spirited friends. Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.

~Apostle Paul – Source: Philippians 2:1-4 (The Message Bible)

“We beg you, please don’t squander one bit of this marvelous life God has given us.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 6, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Joy, Life, Master, Messiah, Squander

I have a choice to make today. It may not be an easy one. It may involve some pain for me. It will also involve some joy. Probably great joy, happiness and peace.

God has given me a marvelous life. It is stunning in every way. There is nothing compared to living the message of the good news of our Messiah and Master Jesus.

Jesus challenges me to not squander this life. It is my choice.

Through the power of God’s Holy Spirit, I won’t turn my back on Jesus.

Companions as we are in this work with you, we beg you, please don’t squander one bit of this marvelous life God has given us.

~Apostle Paul – Source: 2 Corinthians 6:1 (The Message Bible)

“Your job is to speak out on the things that make for solid doctrine.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Dignity, Endurance, Faith, Jesus, Love, Master, Temperance, Titus 2, Wisdom

Bold Faith

I have a job. Jesus has given it to me. I must be faithful in fulfilling it. I can’t shirk it off and leave it to others.

Jesus, my Master, expects me to live up to it. Jesus has given me the Holy Spirit to give me the power to do what God wants when I don’t have capacity within my self. I am a new creation because of what Jesus has accomplished.

As an “older man”, Paul makes it clear that my job is to:

• Live a life of temperance (moderation or self-restraint)
• Live with dignity
• Show wisdom
• Demonstrate healthy faith
• Model love
• Endure until the end

Others will judge me based on my behavior. I don’t want them to look down on God’s message. I can’t afford to be found a hypocrite.

Your job is to speak out on the things that make for solid doctrine. Guide older men into lives of temperance, dignity, and wisdom, into healthy faith, love, and endurance. Guide older women into lives of reverence so they end up as neither gossips nor drunks, but models of goodness. By looking at them, the younger women will know how to love their husbands and children, be virtuous and pure, keep a good house, be good wives. We don’t want anyone looking down on God’s Message because of their behavior. Also, guide the young men to live disciplined lives.

~Apostle Paul – Source: Titus 2:1-6 (The Message Bible)

“No one’s ever so much as imagined anything quite like it— What God has arranged for those who love him.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 2, Apostle Paul, Apostle Paul Sayings, God is Good, Jesus, Love

Love of God

I think I know it all. I am very confident about what the future holds for me. But can I really out imagine God? Do I really know what Jesus has in mind for me?

No, I can’t out imagine the creator of the universe. I can’t out imagine the inventor of love. I can’t out imagine the author of faithfulness.

God loves us and we can’t imagine what He has in store for us. So let’s just fasten our seat belts and enjoy the ride. God is in an amazing mood and has stunning things in store for us.

That’s why we have this Scripture text: No one’s ever seen or heard anything like this, Never so much as imagined anything quite like it— What God has arranged for those who love him.

Source: Apostle Paul   (1 Corinthians 2:9 The Message)

“The first thing I want you to do is pray.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Timothy 2, Apostle Paul Sayings, God's government, Jesus, Pray

Pray Hard

God wants me to pray. I need to have a conversation with God but I definitely need to listen. God has a goal in mind. I won’t know what it is unless I ask and listen. The first thing I should always do is talk with God (pray).

I should talk with God (pray) for everyone I know. If I can’t think of something to talk with God about, I can go down the list of my family and friends.

I need to talk with God about our government. Our freedom of religion is important. Jesus is our ruler in God’s country but we do physically live in “this country” and we need peace and freedom.

The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live.

~Apostle Paul – Source: 1 Timothy 2:1-3 (The Message Bible)

“Love cares more for others than for self.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 13, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Love

God is love. He teaches me that the way, first and foremost, to His love.

He loved us so much, He gave His only Son as a sacrifice for us to get us back in right standing and in the new plan.

Clearly this is how I am to love. God’s goal is that I should not take my own interests in mind but care more about others than myself. That is the way of God’s love. This is the challenge that Jesus has laid out for me every day.

May I love like Him!!!

Love cares more for others than for self.

1 Corinthians 13 (The Message Bible)

 

Related articles

 

• Daily Bread: 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7 (kycotchristiangifts.wordpress.com)

 

• Perfect love… (greatriversofhope.wordpress.com)

 

• God’s Love (iaminhim.wordpress.com)

 

“Does God do these things because of your strenuous moral striving or because you trust God to do them in you?” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Abraham, Apostle Paul Sayings, Faith, Galatians 3, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Messiah

Bold Faith

I can’t do anything, in and of myself, to please God. That is difficult to get in my core some days. In a culture of “self-help”, I like to believe I can do it. I just need to be more “self-confident”. I need to think positive.

There is only one way to God. The way to God is through my faith in what Jesus, the Messiah, has done. It is all about God. It has nothing to do with how good I am or how much I try.

God has given me the Holy Spirit to work things out in my life that I could never do myself. God’s goal for me is to believe he will do it. It is all about faith. God is God. God is the one who accomplishes his great work in our life.

Answer this question: Does the God who lavishly provides you with his own presence, his Holy Spirit, working things in your lives you could never do for yourselves, does he do these things because of your strenuous moral striving or because you trust him to do them in you? Don’t these things happen among you just as they happened with Abraham? He believed God, and that act of belief was turned into a life that was right with God.

~Apostle Paul – Source: Galatians 3:5-6 (The Message Bible)

“Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Ephesians 5, Jesus, Love

Love

I watched what my father did. I now see so many of his traits and expressions as my own. In some ways, I can’t seem to help it. It just happens.

I need to leave that world behind and watch what Jesus is doing. Jesus is my Master. God is my heavenly Father. They are my role models.

It is clear that they are all about love. That is all that God focuses on. God’s world is built on love. It starts with the love of God and continues with the love of everyone else that I can.

How does Jesus love me?

Is Jesus’ love timid and cautious?

Jesus shows me extravagant, over the top love. The love of Jesus is stunning. There is nothing like it.

I need to love like Jesus does. That is all there is to it. I don’t now but God has given me power in the Holy Spirit. God can through me. It is all about Jesus.

Watch what God does, and then you do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents. Mostly what God does is love you. Keep company with him and learn a life of love. Observe how the Messiah loved us. His love was not cautious but extravagant. He didn’t love in order to get something from us but to give everything of himself to us. Love like that.

~Apostle Paul – Source: Ephesians 5:1-2 (The Message Bible)

“So don’t be embarrassed to speak up for our Master Jesus.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Timothy 1, Apostle Paul Sayings, Gift, Jesus, Life, Master, Messiah

Gift of God

I must not be embarrassed. Jesus is my Master. I must speak up for Jesus. I must speak up for his faithful servants as well. Daily Jesus is mocked. Do I stand up for him? Many times I don’t.

I will suffer for standing up for the Messiah Jesus. As faithful followers, we all will suffer. That isn’t a pleasant thought.

I have been given a great gift from God and the power to be faithful from the Holy Spirit, sent by Jesus. My work is holy. God has a goal for me. I can be faithful.

Jesus has done an amazing thing for me. Death has been defeated by his sacrifice. Life is mine. It is all a gift. Nothing I have done to deserve it. Nothing I could do to earn it. A complete gift. It is all about what Jesus has done. It has nothing to do with what I have done.

So don’t be embarrassed to speak up for our Master or for me, his prisoner. Take your share of suffering for the Message along with the rest of us. We can only keep on going, after all, by the power of God, who first saved us and then called us to this holy work. We had nothing to do with it. It was all his idea, a gift prepared for us in Jesus long before we knew anything about it. But we know it now. Since the appearance of our Savior, nothing could be plainer: death defeated, life vindicated in a steady blaze of light, all through the work of Jesus.

~Apostle Paul – Source: 2 Timothy 1:8-10 (The Message Bible)

“Every time your name comes up in my prayers, I say, ‘Oh, thank you, God!’ ” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Gratitude, Jesus, Love, Philemon, Pray

Love

I need to thank God for my brothers and sisters in the faith of our Master Jesus. When I don’t know what to pray for, being grateful is a very good thing.

Love is expressed in gratitude. I need to show love by being grateful. Gratitude is a very powerful expression of love. Gratitude gives love legs. Every day should be thanksgiving.

God is grateful. God is thankful. God shows us how to love. God’s goal is that I replicate how his son Jesus loves. Jesus shows me the way.

Every time your name comes up in my prayers, I say, “Oh, thank you, God!” I keep hearing of the love and faith you have for the Master Jesus, which brims over to other believers. And I keep praying that this faith we hold in common keeps showing up in the good things we do, and that people recognize the Messiah in all of it. Friend, you have no idea how good your love makes me feel, doubly so when I see your hospitality to fellow believers.

`Apostle Paul – Source: Philemon 1:4-7 (The Message Bible)

“Jesus the Messiah rescued us from this evil world we’re in by offering himself as a sacrifice for our missing God’s goal.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Galatians 1, Grace, Jesus, Love, Messiah, Sacrifice, Trouble

Grace

I was in big trouble. I didn’t feel God’s love. I didn’t know how to love. I missed God’s goal for my life. Over and over again, minute by minute. Day in and day out. Yes, I was in big trouble.

Jesus rescued me from all of that. Having never missed God’s goal, Jesus became the sacrifice I needed. I now know love and can love. I am focused on God’s plan and not my own. It is God’s gift to me and nothing I have done.

We know the meaning of those words because Jesus the Messiah rescued us from this evil world we’re in by offering himself as a sacrifice for our missing God’s goal (sin).” ~~Apostle Paul (Galatians 1:4 The Message)  

 

“God picked you out as his from the very start.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Thessalonians 2, Apostle Paul Sayings, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Master, Messiah, Salvation

Glory

I should never lack for anything to pray about. I can thank God, all day long, for my family, friends, and brothers/sisters in Jesus. There is no lacking for that. I should have my hands full.

God loves me. God picked me out at the very start. God has included me, from the beginning, is great plan to save us all when we believe in Jesus. God is God. I may not understand his way of doing things but I am thankful that he does them. I don’t know why God would have picked me out.

It is all enabled by the Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit of God in me that brings me to the glory of Jesus, the Messiah (Anointed one).

Meanwhile, we’ve got our hands full continually thanking God for you, our good friends—so loved by God! God picked you out as his from the very start. Think of it: included in God’s original plan of salvation by the bond of faith in the living truth. This is the life of the Spirit he invited you to through the Message we delivered, in which you get in on the glory of our Master, Jesus the Messiah.

~Apostle Paul – Source: 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14 (The Message Bible)

“I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Authentic, Beauty, Best, Compelling, Gracious, Jesus, Master, Noble, Philippians 4, Praise, Reputable, Truth

Think Happy

When I have changed my mind (repented), I need to fill my mind with the right things. What should I think about? What should concern me?

When I have learned something, I need to put it into practice. Life with Jesus, our Master, is not an exercise in intellectual gymnastics.

Thinking the right things and doing the right things makes everything work together. It creates an amazing harmony.

God has a goal from me. It is transformed thinking and acting on love.

Here is a great list of things to think about:

• What is true
• What is noble
• Who is reputable
• Who is authentic
• What is compelling from Jesus
• What it takes to be gracious
• What is the best
• The beautiful things in life
• Things to praise

Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse. Put into practice what you learned from me, what you heard and saw and realized. Do that, and God, who makes everything work together, will work you into his most excellent harmonies.

Source: Philippians 4:8-9 (The Message Bible)

“Cheerfully pleasing God is the main thing, and that’s what we aim to do, regardless of our conditions.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 5, Apostle Paul Sayings, God's Will, Jesus, Judgement, Messiah

Pleasing God

There is a main thing. I need to be clear about what it is. Ignorance, in this regard, is not an excuse. Jesus has made it known to us.

Cheerfully pleasing God is the main thing. That is all there is to it on any given day. We have been given our mission. Jesus knew that his goal was to know what God wanted and to do it.

If I want to hit the target, the first thing I need to do is take aim. Is my aim today to please God? Is that my only consideration?

God is God. I will face him one day. Jesus has been given the authority, by his Father, to judge. Will I stand in his mercy or will I be condemned?

I must please God today! That is the only thing that matters. I must be cheerful about it. No grumbling allowed.

But neither exile nor homecoming is the main thing. Cheerfully pleasing God is the main thing, and that’s what we aim to do, regardless of our conditions. Sooner or later we’ll all have to face God, regardless of our conditions. We will appear before the Messiah and take what’s coming to us as a result of our actions, either good or bad.

Source: 2 Corinthians 5:9-10 (The Message Bible)

“My aim is to raise hopes by pointing the way to life without end.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Eternal Life, Jesus, Master, Messiah, Titus 1

Eternal Life

I am God’s slave. Jesus is my Master and he owns me. This has happened because of what Jesus did for me and my faith in him. My job is to obey my Master and do everything he wants me to do. Jesus wants me to love. That is my mission.

God’s goal for me is to promote faith. I must get out the accurate word about God and what he has accomplished through the Messiah Jesus. This is stunning news. God is in such a good mood, he does this for us despite our missing his goal for life.

Am I raising hope about a life that never ends? Do my friends and family hear that wonderful message? The key is that I can have hope. I can have hope because this isn’t about living 100 years. This is about live way past 1 trillion years. This is about living a life that never ends.

God has promised us this kind of life, a life that never ends. We will get to be with Jesus and our Father. God is faithful. God never, ever breaks his promise. I can count on him. You can count on him as well.

This is not a secret. God went public with it through Jesus, his son. This message has been made known to us by the Apostles and countless men and women of God since Jesus made his great sacrifice for us.

I don’t always live and act this way. It can be a challenge for me. I must change my mind about God. God is God. God can do anything. I desperately need to get this.

I, Paul, am God’s slave and the Messiah’s agent for promoting the faith among God’s chosen people, getting out the accurate word on God and how to respond rightly to it. My aim is to raise hopes by pointing the way to life without end. This is the life God promised long ago—and he doesn’t break promises! And then when the time was ripe, he went public with his truth. I’ve been entrusted to proclaim this Message by order of our Savior, God himself. Dear Titus, legitimate son in the faith: Receive everything God our Father and Jesus our Savior give you!

Source: Titus 1:1-4

“I’m so grateful to the Messiah Jesus for making me adequate to do this work.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Timothy 1, Apostle Paul Sayings, Arrogance, Faith, Jesus, Love, Messiah

Attitude of Gratitude

Gratitude goes a long way. The Messiah is the one who makes us adequate to do anything. It isn’t about us. I am so very grateful for what Jesus is doing for me. His kindness is overwhelming.

I am nothing and Jesus is everything. Jesus is the one who trusts us to get his work done. Jesus goes “out on a limb” for us and not the other way around.

Before Jesus, we are arrogant and think everything in our life is a result of what we’ve done. Everything in our life is a result of what Jesus has done.

Despite our arrogance, Jesus ignores that and treats us with love, kindness and mercy. It is all about the love of God and his son Jesus.

I’m so grateful to the Messiah Jesus for making me adequate to do this work. He went out on a limb, you know, in trusting me with this ministry. The only credentials I brought to it were invective and witch hunts and arrogance. But I was treated mercifully because I didn’t know what I was doing—didn’t know Who I was doing it against! Grace mixed with faith and love poured over me and into me. And all because of Jesus.

Source: 1 Timothy 1:12-14

“The news of your faith in God is out.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Thessalonians 1, Apostle Paul Sayings, Good News, Jesus, Messiah

Good news of God

You pick up the paper. You are the headline. Your faith in Jesus is the front page headline. Your life is the message and it points to good news. The city is ecstatic hearing the news. Everyone is stunned at how expectantly you await the return of Jesus the Messiah. You have been rescued and are no longer dead to life.

You are the news. Your faith in God is out!

Do you know that all over the provinces of both Macedonia and Achaia believers look up to you? The word has gotten around. Your lives are echoing the Master’s Word, not only in the provinces but all over the place. The news of your faith in God is out. We don’t even have to say anything anymore—you’re the message! People come up and tell us how you received us with open arms, how you deserted the dead idols of your old life so you could embrace and serve God, the true God. They marvel at how expectantly you await the arrival of his Son, whom he raised from the dead—Jesus, who rescued us from certain doom.

Source: 1 Thessalonians 1:7-10

“So what do we do? Keep on missing God’s goal (sin) so God can keep on forgiving?” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, God's Goal, Jesus, Master, Romans 6, Sin

Goal

I live in a new country now. I live in the country governed by God. Jesus is in charge of God’s country. God has forgiven me for missing his goals for me. Should I continue to live in God’s country like I did in the old country? Absolutely not. I am a citizen there.

The point of living in the world governed by Jesus is to be governed by my Master Jesus the Messiah. Jesus is in charge. I am not.

May I live a new life in a new land!

So what do we do? Keep on missing God’s goal (sin) so God can keep on forgiving? I should hope not! If we’ve left the country where missing God’s goal (sin) is sovereign, how can we still live in our old house there? Or didn’t you realize we packed up and left there for good? That is what happened in baptism. When we went under the water, we left the old country of missing God’s goal (sin) behind; when we came up out of the water, we entered into the new country of grace—a new life in a new land!

Source: Apostle Paul – Romans 6:1-3

“So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Love, Messiah, Philippians 1

Love

Love is not all about the emotion of it and our feelings. It is not sentimental gush.

Over time, we learn to act out the commitment of love not the feeling of love. We have to learn what real love is all about. Jesus, the Messiah and our Master, shows what it is and how to do it.

Here are some questions to think about.

• Is it about how much I love or how well I love?
• Is Jesus proud of my love?
• Is my love an example for my family and friends?
• Does my love bring glory and praise to God?

I need to learn to love a lot and I need to love well.

So this is my prayer: that your love will flourish and that you will not only love much but well. Learn to love appropriately. You need to use your head and test your feelings so that your love is sincere and intelligent, not sentimental gush. Live a lover’s life, circumspect and exemplary, a life Jesus will be proud of: bountiful in fruits from the soul, making Jesus the Messiah attractive to all, getting everyone involved in the glory and praise of God.

Philippians 1:9-11

“We keep everything we do and say out in the open.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 4, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Master, Messiah, Truth

Jesus is the Truth

God is open and plainly shares truth with us. God has given us good news and made it known without hiding what he has done. God is generous to us in pouring the reality of his truth down on us. We cannot walk away just because times get tough and people make fun of us. There are times I want to but I’ve come too far to stop now.

Because God is open, we can be open. God’s goal for us is to avoid playing games and wearing a mask to hid who we really are in him. We keep everything out in the open. We are willing to let others see the truth so they can make their own minds up and accept Jesus the Messiah and our Master.

Since God has so generously let us in on what he is doing, we’re not about to throw up our hands and walk off the job just because we run into occasional hard times. We refuse to wear masks and play games. We don’t maneuver and manipulate behind the scenes. And we don’t twist God’s Word to suit ourselves. Rather, we keep everything we do and say out in the open, the whole truth on display, so that those who want to can see and judge for themselves in the presence of God. 2 Corinthians 4:1-2

“By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us we have it all together with God.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Faith, Jesus, Master

Bold Faith

What gets us into the game and off the bench? It is faith in Jesus the Master, our Messiah.

Faith sets us in right standing with God. Faith makes us whole. Faith allows us to get our act together. Nothing else can do that. No manner of “being good” and following the rules helps. It is faith alone.

By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us—set us right with him, make us fit for him—we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. And that’s not all: We throw open our doors to God and discover at the same moment that he has already thrown open his door to us. We find ourselves standing where we always hoped we might stand—out in the wide open spaces of God’s grace and glory, standing tall and shouting our praise. Romans 5:1-2

“God’s Way is not a matter of mere talk; it’s an empowered life.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 4, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Messiah, Power, Talk

Hot Air

Sometimes I like to talk. I know it is just “all talk”. I don’t have any intention of doing anything. I haven’t asked God what he wants. It’s just mere talk.

Our life in Jesus is much different. It isn’t about words alone. God’s goal for us is to live an empowered life. Jesus has sent the Holy Spirit to give us that power for what we can’t do on our own.

May we follow the way of God and live an empowered life in Jesus the Messiah.

I know there are some among you who are so full of themselves they never listen to anyone, let alone me. They don’t think I’ll ever show up in person. But I’ll be there sooner than you think, God willing, and then we’ll see if they’re full of anything but hot air. God’s Way is not a matter of mere talk; it’s an empowered life. 1 Corinthians 4:18-20

“I quit being a “law man” so that I could be God’s man.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Faith, Galatians 2, Jesus, Love, Messiah

Religious Fraud is not OK

We place a heavy emphasis on “being good”. We hear it all the time. He’s a good man or woman. Being good isn’t the issue. The law shows us that we are missing God’s goal for our lives (sin). Being good (some of the time) won’t make things right with God.

There is only one way to get right with God. It is through Jesus the Messiah. I can’t impress God. I can only live the life that Jesus has given me and trust completely in him. Jesus loves me and gave his life for me so that I can be right with God.

What actually took place is this: I tried keeping rules and working my head off to please God, and it didn’t work. So I quit being a “law man” so that I could be God’s man. The Messiah’s life showed me how, and enabled me to do it. I identified myself completely with him. Indeed, I have been crucified with the Messiah. My ego is no longer central. It is no longer important that I appear righteous before you or have your good opinion, and I am no longer driven to impress God. The Messiah lives in me. The life you see me living is not “mine,” but it is lived by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I am not going to go back on that. Galatians 2:19-21

“I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Timothy 1, Apostle Paul Sayings, Gift, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Love, Messiah, Power

Holy Spirit

Some times, OK, many times, I need to be reminded to fan the flame. It hasn’t completely gone out but it is flickering. It isn’t very strong and is providing very little light.

So the reminder comes. It is now. The Spirit of God gives us power. This is the same Spirit that raised Jesus, the Messiah, from the dead. Why be timid? No reason at all.

I just need to fan the flame. The Spirit is in me. It is in us. No need to be timid at all.

 For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.

2 Timothy 1:6 TNIV Bible

What is the inside story about God?

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Ephesians 3, Good News, Jesus, Messiah, Plan

We all want the “inside scoop”. We know we do. And so here is good news. We have it. We really do. Paul got it directly from God. The plan is that God wants everyone to experience the good life through Jesus, the Messiah. No one is to be excluded.

We get the inside story directly from God as well. We share in the same good news. We aren’t left out of His new plan for us at all.

This is why I, Paul, am in jail for Christ, having taken up the cause of you outsiders, so-called. I take it that you’re familiar with the part I was given in God’s plan for including everybody. I got the inside story on this from God himself, as I just wrote you in brief. Ephesians 3:1-3

“Take on an entirely new way of life working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Attitude, Deceitful, Ephesians 4, Jesus, Life, Messiah

Attitude of Gratitude

How is my attitude these days? Is it focused on the new agreement we have with our Father? Am I moving forward with thoughts of His plan? Am I living an entirely new way of life?

Or, am I bogged down my what I want and deceiving myself about the right direction to take?

Am I thinking about what God is doing or what He hasn’t done?

God’s goal for us is that we live an entirely new way of life. It is a life where the character of Jesus is reproduced in us. Is my conduct and character becoming more like that of Jesus every day?

May I focus my thinking on God’s wonderful plan. May I focus on what God is doing today and have a God fashioned life. May I focus on the character of Jesus and doing the same as Jesus does.

But that’s no life for you. You learned the Messiah! My assumption is that you have paid careful attention to him, been well instructed in the truth precisely as we have it in Jesus. Since, then, we do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything—and I do mean everything—connected with that old way of life has to go. It’s rotten through and through. Get rid of it! And then take on an entirely new way of life—a God-fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you. Ephesians 4:20-24

“Love doesn’t strut.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 13, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Love

Love One Another

We see athletes do it all the time. Strutting their stuff when they do something cool.

Subtly we are learning in our culture that taking credit is a good thing. Tooting our own horn is supposed to make sense. Not strutting can be seen as a weakness.

God is love. He doesn’t strut and neither should we. Love is humble and doesn’t need someone to shout out about great we are. Jesus challenges us to love. That is it. Love God and love everyone we come in contact with.

Love doesn’t strut. 1 Corinthians 13 (The Message Bible)

“If the Government of Condemnation was impressive, how about this Government of Affirmation?” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 3, Apostle Paul Sayings, God's government, Jesus, Kingdom, Messiah

Kingdom of God

We either live in the government (kingdom) of condemnation or the government of affirmation. We get to choose. Jesus, the anointed Messiah (King).

Jesus is in charge of this government. Jesus isn’t elected. God appointed him ruler. Jesus doesn’t condemn us. Jesus gives us life. There is a huge contrast in the old government and the new. The new government is vastly better. Jesus will be in charge for all of eternity.

If the Government of Condemnation was impressive, how about this Government of Affirmation? Bright as that old government was, it would look downright dull alongside this new one. If that makeshift arrangement impressed us, how much more this brightly shining government installed for eternity? 2 Corinthians 3:9-11

“Our God gives you everything you need, makes you everything you’re to be.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Thessalonians 1, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Messiah

Goal

What I think I need and what I actually may need are probably two different things. God focuses on giving me what I actually need. Jesus, the Messiah, is just good that way.

More important, the person I need to be is the focus of God’s goal for me. God has a plan. God is making me into his child. God wants me to be mature.

My focus should be on who does God want me to be. Am I achieving that goal? Many times I miss it. Some times I don’t. The good news is that God doesn’t stop. That doesn’t slow him down. God is focused on his plan and goals. They will be achieved.

I, Paul, together with Silas and Timothy, greet the church of the Thessalonian Christians in the name of God our Father and our Master, Jesus the Messiah. Our God gives you everything you need, makes you everything you’re to be. 2 Thessalonians 1:1-2

“Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

1 Corinthians 13, Apostle Paul Sayings, Jesus, Love

How many times do we envy what someone else has. How come they have such a loving family? How come I can’t speak like that in public? How come I didn’t get that promotion?

The list goes on and on in our minds. We get offended with God. How come God blesses others and not me?

The key is to see what Jesus is doing and not what He isn’t. We will be happy if we don’t get offended with Him. Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have. Love is happy with what it has.

God is love. He shows us the way to love.

“Love doesn’t want what it doesn’t have.” 1 Corinthians 13 (The Message Bible )

“God does both the making and saving.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Creation, Ephesians 2, Jesus, Salvation

Salvation

God made us and God saves us. It is all his doing, through his son, the Messiah, Jesus. We have nothing to do with it at all. If we did we would be bragging, inappropriately, that it is our doing. There is nothing we can do at all. It is all about Jesus.

God’s goal is for us to join him in the work he is doing. He has a plan for us. Jesus is getting us ready. He has all the time he needs, both now and in the world to come. Forever is a mighty long time!

Now God has us where he wants us, with all the time in this world and the next to shower grace and kindness upon us in the Messiah Jesus. Saving is all his idea, and all his work. All we do is trust him enough to let him do it. It’s God’s gift from start to finish! We don’t play the major role. If we did, we’d probably go around bragging that we’d done the whole thing! No, we neither make nor save ourselves. God does both the making and saving. He creates each of us by the Messiah Jesus to join him in the work he does, the good work he has gotten ready for us to do, work we had better be doing.

Source: Ephesians 2:8-9 MSG – Now God has us where he wants us, with – Bible Gateway

“Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Fruit, Galatians 5, God, Holy Spirit, Jesus, Messiah, Serenity

Fruit of the Spirit

What happens when I live God’s way? (I am pausing here to think on this!!!)

Jesus, the Messiah, brings gifts into my life. If I plant fruit in an orchard, I will reap some really tasty treats. That is the way it is. I live God’s way and He gives me fruit.

What kind of fruit is it? Things like affection for others. True caring for them. A passion for life. Serenity and peace. I have a willingness to stick with things. No starting and not finishing. Compassion for God and my friends.

I get God’s gift of a basic holiness that permeates everything I do and the people I know. I find myself involved in extremely loyal commitments. I don’t have to force my way through anything. I am able to marshal my energy.

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to the Messiah Jesus have crucified the nature that misses God’s goal (sin) with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. Galatians 5:22-26

“Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

2 Corinthians 9, Apostle Paul Sayings, Gift, God, Jesus, Messiah

Some days it is hard to describe. And, if the Apostle Paul couldn’t do it some days, I guess it is OK if I can’t either.

God has given us an amazing gift. Sometimes it is hard to describe. What we know is that God is in a good mood. God gives us stunning gifts. Through Jesus, his son and our Messiah, we have life that will never end.

What can I do? I can be thankful. And so, I am!!!

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift! 2 Corinthians 9:15

“Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” ~Apostle Paul

Tags

Apostle Paul Sayings, Happy, Joy, Philippians 4, Rejoice

This is worth repeating. It needs to be said frequently. It is absolute. May I rejoice in the Master always. Jesus, our Messiah, is in control. 

God’s goal for us is that we are more than happy all the time. The joy He brings is amazing.

So  … I say it again. The joy He brings is amazing. It is stunning. May we start, live and end our day in joy.

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4