From God.
Salvation. It begins and ends with Jesus. It centers around the cross and the fact that we are ruled by a Just and Compassionate God.
Who needs salvation? WE ALL DO! To go through life ignorant of the fact that we are separated from God by our sin nature is, well, dangerous on an eternal level. Somehow, we all need to be reached, as it were, by God's grace and reborn as adopted children of God. We can want this to happen, but we cannot make it happen.
So what, exactly, are we being saved from? GOD. Yes, it is true that a just and holy God can accept absolutely no sin whatsoever. He is opposed to evil because in Him there is no darkness. Even that small little inconspicuous sin is enough to alienate God from ourselves, and that is not a place where we want to be.
So, as crazy and marvelous as it seems, only God can save us from...God. He has given us one way and that is through the redeeming blood of Christ Jesus. It was a plan hatched before the beginning of time because nothing really ever surprises God. Love the quote: Did it ever occur to you that nothing occurs to God? He knew that man would fall to temptation and that a second Adam would have to succeed where to first failed.
The blood sprinkled on the door frames at Passover was a foreshadowing of the need for blood to wash away sins and keep God from exercising His wrath. The many many animal sacrifices expected in the Old Testament were, again, foreshadowing the need for a once and all blood sacrifice that would truly provide a balancing of the ledger, a propitiation for our sins.
Will all people be saved from the wrath of God when the final judgement occurs? No. Only those who call on the name of the Lord, Jesus, can be saved by the righteousness from Christ. Are you among them? Knees, prayer, repentance. There will come a time that is too late. No second chances. No do-overs. Please. Listen to the quiet calling. He loves His creation and His creatures.
Praise our God!
Showing posts with label God's grace. Show all posts
Showing posts with label God's grace. Show all posts
Monday, October 17, 2016
Monday, February 29, 2016
Risk versus Reward
"He who believes in Him is not judged; he who does not believe has been
judged already, because he has not believed in the name of the only
begotten Son of God. "This is the judgment, that the Light has come into
the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the Light, for their
deeds were evil.
John 3: 18-19
Throughout our lives we make choices. Many of these are daily decisions that are made
without a lot of thought. For more serious decisions, we may make a 'pro's and con's'
list, carefully measuring what the ramifications will be om either side of the choice. We
may ask the advice of others who may have some experience with the choice we are
about to make. Many of us pray on decisions, believing that God the Holy Spirit who
dwells withing us can aid us in making a wise choice. Occasionally, we may make the
wrong choice and, hopefully, learn from it in case a similar decision looms in the future.
There is one choice that is monumental for each and every soul that God created on
this earth. It is an eternal choice. Regardless of where you may stand on the idea
of predestination, election and free will, there is a bottom line. In the end, each of
us must choose to either accept the gift of grace provided by Jesus Christ on the
cross or reject His path to reconciliation with God, the only possible path to the
rift that exists between sinful man and a Holy God who cannot accommodate any sin.
This choice may come at any and all times in a person's life and God in His Magnificence,
may offer options that we do not know, but there will be a final choice and we, in the
end, will make it.
You don't need me to spell out the ramifications, here. We either leave this existence
into the arms of our precious savior, Jesus, to be an adopted member of God's family or
we leave destined to be separated from God into eternity. What that separation
exactly looks like may be debated, but the decision to reject Him means that we will
be judged on our own righteousness, and judged unacceptable, regardless of what
we may have dome or accomplished in our lifetimes. It will be a final choice.
There will be no second chances.
It is so very ironic that the God with whom we needed reconciliation Himself
has provided the means through the giving of His precious Son. That is love.
That is a God who cares. Much like a judge who issues a $200 ticket to a driver
and then walks down in front of the bench and hands the guilty party $200.
So make this choice carefully. There are really no items on the con side of
this decision. Choosing wrongly has such immense ramifications. I pray that
you will accept Jesus today and we will see His glory together in Heaven.
Praise our loving God!
John 3: 18-19
Throughout our lives we make choices. Many of these are daily decisions that are made
without a lot of thought. For more serious decisions, we may make a 'pro's and con's'
list, carefully measuring what the ramifications will be om either side of the choice. We
may ask the advice of others who may have some experience with the choice we are
about to make. Many of us pray on decisions, believing that God the Holy Spirit who
dwells withing us can aid us in making a wise choice. Occasionally, we may make the
wrong choice and, hopefully, learn from it in case a similar decision looms in the future.
There is one choice that is monumental for each and every soul that God created on
this earth. It is an eternal choice. Regardless of where you may stand on the idea
of predestination, election and free will, there is a bottom line. In the end, each of
us must choose to either accept the gift of grace provided by Jesus Christ on the
cross or reject His path to reconciliation with God, the only possible path to the
rift that exists between sinful man and a Holy God who cannot accommodate any sin.
This choice may come at any and all times in a person's life and God in His Magnificence,
may offer options that we do not know, but there will be a final choice and we, in the
end, will make it.
You don't need me to spell out the ramifications, here. We either leave this existence
into the arms of our precious savior, Jesus, to be an adopted member of God's family or
we leave destined to be separated from God into eternity. What that separation
exactly looks like may be debated, but the decision to reject Him means that we will
be judged on our own righteousness, and judged unacceptable, regardless of what
we may have dome or accomplished in our lifetimes. It will be a final choice.
There will be no second chances.
It is so very ironic that the God with whom we needed reconciliation Himself
has provided the means through the giving of His precious Son. That is love.
That is a God who cares. Much like a judge who issues a $200 ticket to a driver
and then walks down in front of the bench and hands the guilty party $200.
So make this choice carefully. There are really no items on the con side of
this decision. Choosing wrongly has such immense ramifications. I pray that
you will accept Jesus today and we will see His glory together in Heaven.
Praise our loving God!
Wednesday, November 25, 2015
In everything give thanks.... 1 Thess. 5: 18
Thanksgiving is once again upon us. I was told this morning by someone who enjoys
history trivia that Thanksgiving became a national holiday celebration during the term of Franklin Roosevelt. So, I guess the original pilgrims did not invent the holiday, which is
the answer that I probably would have given, if asked.
For those of us who have been touched by a gracious God and called to His family, every
single day ought to be a day of giving thanks. Like everything else, when we are busy with
worldly things, and yes, we do get busy in living here on this earth, we can allow
ourselves to postpone, if you will, giving thanks for those things that God has provided.
We may not be of this world, but we sure as sure can be are in it temporarily.
So here goes, and I am sure I will leave many things out:
Dear Gracious Magnanimous God...
Thank You for your sustaining grace. That which allows us to breathe, our hearts to
beat and these bodies to function in such a way that we can face the day ...
Thank You for your church! Thank you for the freedom, in this country, to worship
and love you within a church framework without fear of persecution, as faced by
many, many brace souls in this world ...
Thank You for family, friends, those we love; You invented relationships and have
blessed me with parents who cared, siblings I love, friends I cherish and a daughter
and granddaughter I would die for ...
Thank you for Your creation; it may be spoiled by sin, but it remains breathtakingly
beautiful and originally, creatively magnificent ...
Thank you for Jesus!!!!! His sacrifice, His ministry, His Resurrection, His
teachings, His intercession, His heart and His courage. Without Him, we are
lost ...
Thank you for Your Kingship! Somebody is in charge! Somebody knows us from
before time began! Somebody is with us each moment! Somebody loves us
enough to provide a Gospel of deliverance, unearned yet offered! ...
Thank You for the future! We have something to look forward to beyond this
temporal existence, we can look forward to being your adopted!
Goodness gracious, Praise our God!
Happy Thanksgiving!
history trivia that Thanksgiving became a national holiday celebration during the term of Franklin Roosevelt. So, I guess the original pilgrims did not invent the holiday, which is
the answer that I probably would have given, if asked.
For those of us who have been touched by a gracious God and called to His family, every
single day ought to be a day of giving thanks. Like everything else, when we are busy with
worldly things, and yes, we do get busy in living here on this earth, we can allow
ourselves to postpone, if you will, giving thanks for those things that God has provided.
We may not be of this world, but we sure as sure can be are in it temporarily.
So here goes, and I am sure I will leave many things out:
Dear Gracious Magnanimous God...
Thank You for your sustaining grace. That which allows us to breathe, our hearts to
beat and these bodies to function in such a way that we can face the day ...
Thank You for your church! Thank you for the freedom, in this country, to worship
and love you within a church framework without fear of persecution, as faced by
many, many brace souls in this world ...
Thank You for family, friends, those we love; You invented relationships and have
blessed me with parents who cared, siblings I love, friends I cherish and a daughter
and granddaughter I would die for ...
Thank you for Your creation; it may be spoiled by sin, but it remains breathtakingly
beautiful and originally, creatively magnificent ...
Thank you for Jesus!!!!! His sacrifice, His ministry, His Resurrection, His
teachings, His intercession, His heart and His courage. Without Him, we are
lost ...
Thank you for Your Kingship! Somebody is in charge! Somebody knows us from
before time began! Somebody is with us each moment! Somebody loves us
enough to provide a Gospel of deliverance, unearned yet offered! ...
Thank You for the future! We have something to look forward to beyond this
temporal existence, we can look forward to being your adopted!
Goodness gracious, Praise our God!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
It ain't trivial pursuit!
Yes, I know. it isn't really proper English usage to throw an ain't into a title, but it did get your attention, right? That's actually an advertising technique. However, this blog is not
about advertising; it's about God.
That's right Jehovah, the covenant God, and He is in pursuit of all His creation that has not accepted the grace-filled promise of eternal salvation through Jesus Christ.
4 “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? 5 And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ 7 Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.
Luke 15: 4-7
It can be a perceived tap on the shoulder, a soft whispering voice hardly perceptible or
it can slap one upside the head with vigor, but God is after those who He seeks and He
will not give up that pursuit easily.
We all know people who spend a lot of time denying the existence of God, who strive to
come up with reasons why they do not go to church, why they do not have time or the need to be Christians. They have defense mechanisms in place, favorite arguments to present,
ears and eyes closed to the obvious existence of a Creator. Truth be told, it is often
impossible to get past this stubbornness, but God is not deterred.
We all know that lost sheep. He or she is out there with the mistaken impression that they
are in charge, that they can handle all life has to throw at them. They are prideful, stubborn, egotistical and ignorant of the one thing they need above all others; God.
So join me in prayer for those you know and for those you do not. Join me in praising
our God for His persistence and loving kindness!
He is a wonderful, magnificent LORD!
about advertising; it's about God.
That's right Jehovah, the covenant God, and He is in pursuit of all His creation that has not accepted the grace-filled promise of eternal salvation through Jesus Christ.
4 “What man of you, having a hundred sheep, if he has lost one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the open country, and go after the one that is lost, until he finds it? 5 And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders, rejoicing. 6 And when he comes home, he calls together his friends and his neighbors, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost.’ 7 Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.
Luke 15: 4-7
It can be a perceived tap on the shoulder, a soft whispering voice hardly perceptible or
it can slap one upside the head with vigor, but God is after those who He seeks and He
will not give up that pursuit easily.
We all know people who spend a lot of time denying the existence of God, who strive to
come up with reasons why they do not go to church, why they do not have time or the need to be Christians. They have defense mechanisms in place, favorite arguments to present,
ears and eyes closed to the obvious existence of a Creator. Truth be told, it is often
impossible to get past this stubbornness, but God is not deterred.
We all know that lost sheep. He or she is out there with the mistaken impression that they
are in charge, that they can handle all life has to throw at them. They are prideful, stubborn, egotistical and ignorant of the one thing they need above all others; God.
So join me in prayer for those you know and for those you do not. Join me in praising
our God for His persistence and loving kindness!
He is a wonderful, magnificent LORD!
Friday, June 13, 2014
Lest you have forgotten...You are Forgiven!
For I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more.” Hebrews 8: 12
'Cause we all make mistakes sometimes
And we've all stepped across that line
But nothing's sweeter
Than the day we find
Forgiveness, Forgiveness
Forgiveness Toby Mac from Eye On It
Sin is interesting once one becomes a Christian. (meaning Jesus is happening
in our hearts) We are different in our relationship to sin, even though we continue to sin and will do so until we die. We need to be careful in the ways we react to and think about the
sin that is an on-going part of our nature.
There is, to a certain extent, some bliss in the ignorance one has toward his sin when he
is not convicted of it by the Holy Spirit. But once we are reborn into Christ we are no longer
unaware of even the smallest of our sins. It's no longer okay to make excuses, pardon
ourselves with a variety of reasons or act as though no one has noticed. Even the smallest
of sins puts us at enmity to God; He cannot tolerate or accept any sin, and He notices
our sin...always. It feels really bad to realize that we, even on our best days, cannot live
up to His high standards.... yet....
We have been forgiven!
It is frustrating to want badly to stop falling into temptation, to avoid sinful thoughts and
actions only to find that we are repeating them. I (and this is surely not original) look at sin
as Satan In Nature. We are born with a sinful nature as a direct result of the original sin
against God in the garden. That serpent was the devil. The great deceiver. Even though
it surely is not acceptable to ignore these repeated slip-ups, we can always strive to
go to God with our confessions and seek His help.
The power of confession lies not with the person who makes it but with the God that hears it! Lucado from Grace
God wants to know that we are contrite and opposed to our sins. He wants us to come
to Him with our heart-felt wishes to be better because of His forgiveness.
Perhaps the most meaningful use of energies that come from all this lies in the
ability of those who have been forgiven to forgive others as a result. Despite our
fallen nature, our repetition of sinfulness, God has promised us that He will not
remember our sin because He looks upon the righteousness of His beloved son who
is there at His right hand in our behalf. How could we not, therefore, be forgiving
of others?
It's best to put on that armor of God and do battle against Satan with all the help of
God and glorify Him for the grace He has shown, is showing and will continue to
show.
He is a loving gracious Father God. All praise, glory and honor to His name.
'Cause we all make mistakes sometimes
And we've all stepped across that line
But nothing's sweeter
Than the day we find
Forgiveness, Forgiveness
Forgiveness Toby Mac from Eye On It
Sin is interesting once one becomes a Christian. (meaning Jesus is happening
in our hearts) We are different in our relationship to sin, even though we continue to sin and will do so until we die. We need to be careful in the ways we react to and think about the
sin that is an on-going part of our nature.
There is, to a certain extent, some bliss in the ignorance one has toward his sin when he
is not convicted of it by the Holy Spirit. But once we are reborn into Christ we are no longer
unaware of even the smallest of our sins. It's no longer okay to make excuses, pardon
ourselves with a variety of reasons or act as though no one has noticed. Even the smallest
of sins puts us at enmity to God; He cannot tolerate or accept any sin, and He notices
our sin...always. It feels really bad to realize that we, even on our best days, cannot live
up to His high standards.... yet....
We have been forgiven!
It is frustrating to want badly to stop falling into temptation, to avoid sinful thoughts and
actions only to find that we are repeating them. I (and this is surely not original) look at sin
as Satan In Nature. We are born with a sinful nature as a direct result of the original sin
against God in the garden. That serpent was the devil. The great deceiver. Even though
it surely is not acceptable to ignore these repeated slip-ups, we can always strive to
go to God with our confessions and seek His help.
The power of confession lies not with the person who makes it but with the God that hears it! Lucado from Grace
God wants to know that we are contrite and opposed to our sins. He wants us to come
to Him with our heart-felt wishes to be better because of His forgiveness.
Perhaps the most meaningful use of energies that come from all this lies in the
ability of those who have been forgiven to forgive others as a result. Despite our
fallen nature, our repetition of sinfulness, God has promised us that He will not
remember our sin because He looks upon the righteousness of His beloved son who
is there at His right hand in our behalf. How could we not, therefore, be forgiving
of others?
It's best to put on that armor of God and do battle against Satan with all the help of
God and glorify Him for the grace He has shown, is showing and will continue to
show.
He is a loving gracious Father God. All praise, glory and honor to His name.
Monday, April 7, 2014
Macular degeneration of the soul
"Open your eyes and the whole world is full of God!" Jacob Bohme
It's been a long cold winter for a lot of folks! Even here in Northern Texas the weather
was a lot colder than the previous winters I have spent here. But now, as things warm
a bit, one can see the miracle of spring. Things, here, are actually, even if briefly, green
and lush looking. It's very nice to see the changes!
Seeing is the key, here. For whatever the reason, there are many people who simply
put on the blinders and fail to see the absolute positive proof that God exists and shows
Himself, abundantly, through His creation. One needs do nothing more than walk outside
and listen to the sounds of spring, look at the sights of spring and breathe in the new
smells of rebirth.
A. W. Tozer said, "We pursue God because, and only because, he has first put an urge within
us that spurs us to the pursuit." This must be the reason why so many prideful people
not only refuse to seek God but go out of their way to find excuses to not believe in Him.
I believe all of us feel deeply saddened by the fact that there are those whose energies
get tangled up by what can only be, quite frankly, Satan's handiwork. It's really not
a difficult realization that there is a omniscient, transcendent God in control of this earth
and all who inhabit it.
It's as if people have been blinded. Pride makes many folks unable to see themselves in
any position other than in charge. They will spend much energy seeking ways to deny
that which is plainly presented for all to who would look. Maybe God has simply caused
these individuals to overlook His presence. I am of the opinion, and that is all it is, that
these folks have simply decided to be blind of their own volition.
How sad. What a tragic loss. I for one will continue to pray that these energies may
somehow be transformed into the joy that can only come when one realizes the
glory and majesty of a loving Father God. He's right there in front of your face...
get those eyes examined...get that heart unfrozen. Time is of the essence!
Praise God!
It's been a long cold winter for a lot of folks! Even here in Northern Texas the weather
was a lot colder than the previous winters I have spent here. But now, as things warm
a bit, one can see the miracle of spring. Things, here, are actually, even if briefly, green
and lush looking. It's very nice to see the changes!
Seeing is the key, here. For whatever the reason, there are many people who simply
put on the blinders and fail to see the absolute positive proof that God exists and shows
Himself, abundantly, through His creation. One needs do nothing more than walk outside
and listen to the sounds of spring, look at the sights of spring and breathe in the new
smells of rebirth.
A. W. Tozer said, "We pursue God because, and only because, he has first put an urge within
us that spurs us to the pursuit." This must be the reason why so many prideful people
not only refuse to seek God but go out of their way to find excuses to not believe in Him.
I believe all of us feel deeply saddened by the fact that there are those whose energies
get tangled up by what can only be, quite frankly, Satan's handiwork. It's really not
a difficult realization that there is a omniscient, transcendent God in control of this earth
and all who inhabit it.
It's as if people have been blinded. Pride makes many folks unable to see themselves in
any position other than in charge. They will spend much energy seeking ways to deny
that which is plainly presented for all to who would look. Maybe God has simply caused
these individuals to overlook His presence. I am of the opinion, and that is all it is, that
these folks have simply decided to be blind of their own volition.
How sad. What a tragic loss. I for one will continue to pray that these energies may
somehow be transformed into the joy that can only come when one realizes the
glory and majesty of a loving Father God. He's right there in front of your face...
get those eyes examined...get that heart unfrozen. Time is of the essence!
Praise God!
Monday, March 24, 2014
A verse is worth a thousand words!
28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good,[a] for those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8: 28
Much has been written about the tough times. I guess it would not be big news to
anyone that life is certainly full of situations that are difficult for we humans to both
understand and to cope with. While life is full of many joys and great positives, it is
balanced by many situations that, quite frankly, are most difficult to get through.
We look to praise and thank God for the many many blessings that He has shared
with us; yet, it becomes a different story when we face obstacles, heartbreaks, loss
of loved ones, etc.
How can we look at devastating life occurrences as positives? How can we possibly
see a good outcome from what seems to be insurmountable sadness and difficulty?
God is working out His plan; a plan that seeks to do what glorifies Him. While this
might seem to be not in our best interest sometimes, nothing could be more untrue.
He, and only He, through His omniscience and omnipotence, brings together both
His will to be glorified with His desire to love His created beings. He puts all the
pieces of the puzzle together in a way that is fully successful. Will we be able to
see the plan as He pieces things together, probably not. Is this a negative or
a weakness in us.... no; we are humans who do not need and are not capable of
examining God's workmanship.
So we need that elusive faith and trust, which can be helped by the fact that
Holy scripture gives us verses like Romans 8: 28 to read, reflect upon and lean
upon when we just cannot understand. Sometimes these powerful verses suddenly
jump off the pages of the Bible, even when we have heard and read them
countless times.
He is in charge. He knows what is best for us and is working to bring that to
fruition through His guidance of our lives. He is to be trusted because He has
shown through His gospel, through the cross and through His creation that He
knows exactly what He is doing. Always. He will not forget us, He will not
abandon us and He will bring us to His holy purposes.
Our lives aren't always easy; they were never meant to be. We need a God
and a Lord to lean on, always!
Praise God!
Much has been written about the tough times. I guess it would not be big news to
anyone that life is certainly full of situations that are difficult for we humans to both
understand and to cope with. While life is full of many joys and great positives, it is
balanced by many situations that, quite frankly, are most difficult to get through.
We look to praise and thank God for the many many blessings that He has shared
with us; yet, it becomes a different story when we face obstacles, heartbreaks, loss
of loved ones, etc.
How can we look at devastating life occurrences as positives? How can we possibly
see a good outcome from what seems to be insurmountable sadness and difficulty?
God is working out His plan; a plan that seeks to do what glorifies Him. While this
might seem to be not in our best interest sometimes, nothing could be more untrue.
He, and only He, through His omniscience and omnipotence, brings together both
His will to be glorified with His desire to love His created beings. He puts all the
pieces of the puzzle together in a way that is fully successful. Will we be able to
see the plan as He pieces things together, probably not. Is this a negative or
a weakness in us.... no; we are humans who do not need and are not capable of
examining God's workmanship.
So we need that elusive faith and trust, which can be helped by the fact that
Holy scripture gives us verses like Romans 8: 28 to read, reflect upon and lean
upon when we just cannot understand. Sometimes these powerful verses suddenly
jump off the pages of the Bible, even when we have heard and read them
countless times.
He is in charge. He knows what is best for us and is working to bring that to
fruition through His guidance of our lives. He is to be trusted because He has
shown through His gospel, through the cross and through His creation that He
knows exactly what He is doing. Always. He will not forget us, He will not
abandon us and He will bring us to His holy purposes.
Our lives aren't always easy; they were never meant to be. We need a God
and a Lord to lean on, always!
Praise God!
Friday, March 14, 2014
Thank heaven for Google Translate! CHRIST JESUS IS SUFFICIENT!!!!
Jesús es suficiente!
Jezus is genoeg!
Jésus est assez!
Jesus ist genug!
Ο Ιησούς είναι αρκετό!
ישו זה מספיק!
Iesu yn ddigon!
イエスは十分です！
Jesus är nog!
Иисус достаточно!
Jezus is genoeg!
Jésus est assez!
Jesus ist genug!
Ο Ιησούς είναι αρκετό!
ישו זה מספיק!
Iesu yn ddigon!
イエスは十分です！
Jesus är nog!
Jesus é o suficiente!
예수님은 충분하다!
Jesus sat est?
Gesù è sufficiente!
No matter what the language, the message remains the same: Jesus Christ is enough!
He is bigger than your biggest problem, bigger than your biggest fear, bigger than your
most egregious sin, bigger than bank account balances, bigger than harsh words,
bigger than feuds between friends or family, bigger than any physical ailment, bigger,
yes bigger than death, bigger than Satan, bigger than the strongest sorrow, the
biggest loss the grandest temptation.....
Jesus is all you will ever need. Ask Him to be the center of your life, repent sins
and glorify Him. He is humble; yet, strong. He is loving; yet, powerful. He is a servant; yet,
and glorify Him. He is humble; yet, strong. He is loving; yet, powerful. He is a servant; yet,
a King. His shoulders are strong, His heart is huge. His patience is forever. He is
God, King, High Priest and Savior.
Praise His glorious name!
Monday, March 10, 2014
We wins! and yes,.... Love Wins!
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to
you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be
troubled, and do not let them be afraid. 28 John 14: 27
Pastor Rob Bell wrote what is a very controversial book, in the eyes of some,that emphasized
the loving nature of God. The controversy, as I understand it, having read the book, is the
fear that this emphasis might cause some to over-stress the importance of this trait of
our God at the expense of the other Godly traits He also possesses.
Not pretending to be anything other than a lover of our amazing Holy God, I, nonetheless,
have some opinions about all of this angst over placing too much emphasis on God's love.
Personally, I can make a case that one could ever overestimate the love of God. I won't
even hit you with John 3: 16.
It seems to me that there are two vastly important aspects of God, as seen from a mere
mortal, a created being completely amazed by God. The first would be God's utter loathing
of sin.
Psalms 5:4 For You [are] not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness, Nor shall evil dwell with You. 5 The boastful shall not stand in Your sight; You hate all workers of iniquity. 6 You shall destroy those who speak falsehood; The Lord abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful man.
He cannot abide sin. he is completely Holy and righteous and that is what He envisioned
as a goal for His created... lives devoid of sinfulness. Well, a serpent got in the way and
the world was forever changed to one that is spoiled. We are a part of the overall sinful
nature of the world. Even, in fact, after being born into Christ, we tend to sin.
The second would be God's love of His creation. Scripture abounds with His love
culminated in His plan to allow His Son to provide the only way to salvation. Here is
the major point; He did not have or need to provide this path to forgiveness! He
developed the plan to bring the gospel message into the world to provide a
means of sanctification that we might some day join Him in a much different world.
So one could, based upon this Grace, suggest that in the end, the love of God
provided the only counter-balance to His hatred of Sin. He provided an adoption
plan based upon His willingness to forgive us; a Father's love for His children, His
creation.
Yes, WE WIN! We are winners only through the Grace and Loving-Kindness of
our God. We didn't deserve to win... He didn't have to allow us to win.... He simply
created an answer to our sin because He could.
Praise our God!
Pastor Rob Bell wrote what is a very controversial book, in the eyes of some,that emphasized
the loving nature of God. The controversy, as I understand it, having read the book, is the
fear that this emphasis might cause some to over-stress the importance of this trait of
our God at the expense of the other Godly traits He also possesses.
Not pretending to be anything other than a lover of our amazing Holy God, I, nonetheless,
have some opinions about all of this angst over placing too much emphasis on God's love.
Personally, I can make a case that one could ever overestimate the love of God. I won't
even hit you with John 3: 16.
It seems to me that there are two vastly important aspects of God, as seen from a mere
mortal, a created being completely amazed by God. The first would be God's utter loathing
of sin.
Psalms 5:4 For You [are] not a God who takes pleasure in wickedness, Nor shall evil dwell with You. 5 The boastful shall not stand in Your sight; You hate all workers of iniquity. 6 You shall destroy those who speak falsehood; The Lord abhors the bloodthirsty and deceitful man.
He cannot abide sin. he is completely Holy and righteous and that is what He envisioned
as a goal for His created... lives devoid of sinfulness. Well, a serpent got in the way and
the world was forever changed to one that is spoiled. We are a part of the overall sinful
nature of the world. Even, in fact, after being born into Christ, we tend to sin.
The second would be God's love of His creation. Scripture abounds with His love
culminated in His plan to allow His Son to provide the only way to salvation. Here is
the major point; He did not have or need to provide this path to forgiveness! He
developed the plan to bring the gospel message into the world to provide a
means of sanctification that we might some day join Him in a much different world.
So one could, based upon this Grace, suggest that in the end, the love of God
provided the only counter-balance to His hatred of Sin. He provided an adoption
plan based upon His willingness to forgive us; a Father's love for His children, His
creation.
Yes, WE WIN! We are winners only through the Grace and Loving-Kindness of
our God. We didn't deserve to win... He didn't have to allow us to win.... He simply
created an answer to our sin because He could.
Praise our God!
Friday, February 28, 2014
the Lord's Amazing Hydration
Whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst. The water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life. John 4: 14
The meeting at Jacob's well is fascinating on many many levels. First, it represents the
longest conversation involving Jesus in the New Testament. It is also amazing just based
on the fact that Jesus has spoken to someone who would ordinarily be shunned by a
Hebrew man. His knowledge of this woman is amazing along with His statements
regarding who He is.
But the whole water motif is amazingly important and "refreshing!" This water
symbol is found throughout the Bible from the creation in Genesis to Revelation, as
the river of life.
The River of Life - And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding from the throne of God and of the Lamb. Rev 22
Even on the cross, as Christ Jesus is pierced, there comes a flow of both blood and water
from His body. There are suggestions that this is a result of shock or the flogging He endured, but the idea of baptismal cleansing and sacrificial blood flow are certainly worth
considering from a symbolic sense.
I'm not smart enough to pinpoint what all these water references mean, but I believe
that one can accurately say that Jesus is the one, and only one, who sustains us in life
and in our own resurrection. He is sufficient in our lives and for our lives; He is truly
all that we need. Because He is omniscient, omnipotent and sovereign, He is fully
capable of our dependence on Him for all everything we need.
Water is both necessary and sustaining in our lives. It is precious and not to be
wasted. When we bow down to Jesus and bring Him into prominence in our lives,
He becomes the shepherd taking care of the flock, each member of the flock. He
refuses to allow harm to each of us when we accept Him as Lord and Savior in
our lives.
28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11: 28-39
His arms are ope n and He beckons all to come to Him. What a wonderful request!
What an important decision, one that truly has everlasting implications!
Praise Jesus, our redeemer!
Sunday, February 9, 2014
So... what are the odds?
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
John 14: 6
I have heard that a lot of money was lost on this year's Super Bowl! I guess I have to
state that it wouldn't have been me betting on a sporting event, but I am aware that
many folks do so. What if we examined the "odds" of some other things, unrelated to
the world of sports....
What are the odds that we crawled out of some primordial ooze millions of years ago
and slowly developed into humans as they exist today? I believe that is called evolution, and
believe it or not, it is taught in the majority of public schools across this nation. I
will tell you that, in my opinion, the odds are 0..that's a zero! There has never been
any proof that cross-specie evolution has EVER happened. Worms do not evolve into
chimpanzees. But wait...
What if an alien spacecraft deposited some sort of genetic material and eventually
caused the human being to arrive? Show me an alien spacecraft and I still am calling this
a zero!
What are the odds that this world, this universe just happened...just suddenly became
out of nothing. No creator. Happenstance. Coincidence. NOPE! Ever do any studying of the
human brain? The human cell? The specific necessities that make this planet we live on
even inhabitable? Chance? I think not! ZERO!
What are the odds that any of us could stand before a Holy God and be considered
worthy of salvation? That any of us, on our own merit, would be seen as Holy, as justified,
as sinless? You got it! ZERO chance. That's what the good news of the Gospel of Jesus
Christ is all about. Saved by grace alone, by faith alone. Nothing we have done or could
do would put us in good standing with the God of this universe without the atoning
sacrifice of Jesus upon the cross as our Savior, our High Priest our Redeemer.
I like the odds promised by the Bible that state that we have been adopted into the
family of God by the work of Jesus on that cross, that we will be seen as Christ's
righteousness at the Day of Judgement, that we have eternal life through The Lamb
of God... there's where I will put my confidence. Won't you join me?
John 14: 6
I have heard that a lot of money was lost on this year's Super Bowl! I guess I have to
state that it wouldn't have been me betting on a sporting event, but I am aware that
many folks do so. What if we examined the "odds" of some other things, unrelated to
the world of sports....
What are the odds that we crawled out of some primordial ooze millions of years ago
and slowly developed into humans as they exist today? I believe that is called evolution, and
believe it or not, it is taught in the majority of public schools across this nation. I
will tell you that, in my opinion, the odds are 0..that's a zero! There has never been
any proof that cross-specie evolution has EVER happened. Worms do not evolve into
chimpanzees. But wait...
What if an alien spacecraft deposited some sort of genetic material and eventually
caused the human being to arrive? Show me an alien spacecraft and I still am calling this
a zero!
What are the odds that this world, this universe just happened...just suddenly became
out of nothing. No creator. Happenstance. Coincidence. NOPE! Ever do any studying of the
human brain? The human cell? The specific necessities that make this planet we live on
even inhabitable? Chance? I think not! ZERO!
What are the odds that any of us could stand before a Holy God and be considered
worthy of salvation? That any of us, on our own merit, would be seen as Holy, as justified,
as sinless? You got it! ZERO chance. That's what the good news of the Gospel of Jesus
Christ is all about. Saved by grace alone, by faith alone. Nothing we have done or could
do would put us in good standing with the God of this universe without the atoning
sacrifice of Jesus upon the cross as our Savior, our High Priest our Redeemer.
I like the odds promised by the Bible that state that we have been adopted into the
family of God by the work of Jesus on that cross, that we will be seen as Christ's
righteousness at the Day of Judgement, that we have eternal life through The Lamb
of God... there's where I will put my confidence. Won't you join me?
Saturday, February 8, 2014
Secrets we do NOT need to know!
“The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but the things that are
revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all
the words of this law." Deuteronomy 29: 29
It seems that the more we learn and know about God and His miraculous nature and
creation, the more we long to know even more. Maybe it's a human nature thing; we are
inquisitive and seek to broaden our knowledge. Yet, it seems to me that many of God's
secrets ought to remain His, alone. It is possible that we aren't capable or able
to comprehend a lot of those things we seek answers to. Somewhere along the way we
need to accept the fact that all questions will be or may not need to be answered when
we fall asleep and our souls are in Heaven.
So, what are some of the unanswered questions that you would like to know when you
arrive? I have some.....
How come God chose folks that weren't exactly perfect to be major players in His plan?
You know, King David, Moses, Abraham... Well, that answer is almost self-evident. No one,
not even these great Biblical characters is/was perfect, except, of course, the Son of God.
What about election and predestination? Why are some chosen and others apparently not?
Since God alone can bring salvation, how did He make these decisions?
What about time, as it applies to God? is time just a human dimension? If God can see
all of time laid out before Him, can he go back and make changes?
Could Jesus have sinned? We knew that he was tempted in the same way humans are
tempted and we know that He lived a perfect, Holy life, but could He have?
Why did God give humans the possibility of redemption and not the angels?
What will the new earth and the new heaven be like? What about those new, perfect
resurrected bodies?
Will we see loved ones in Heaven? Will we recognize them and have similar relationships
with them?
Well, I could certainly go on. While it is fun to ponder some of these issues, there is
plenty that has been revealed to us in God's word and creation. Obviously, we haven't
been given all the details... maybe they are to come and maybe we just won't
really care.
I am looking forward to the future. Come, Jesus! We are certainly ready to take
to our knees and exalt You!!
It seems that the more we learn and know about God and His miraculous nature and
creation, the more we long to know even more. Maybe it's a human nature thing; we are
inquisitive and seek to broaden our knowledge. Yet, it seems to me that many of God's
secrets ought to remain His, alone. It is possible that we aren't capable or able
to comprehend a lot of those things we seek answers to. Somewhere along the way we
need to accept the fact that all questions will be or may not need to be answered when
we fall asleep and our souls are in Heaven.
So, what are some of the unanswered questions that you would like to know when you
arrive? I have some.....
How come God chose folks that weren't exactly perfect to be major players in His plan?
You know, King David, Moses, Abraham... Well, that answer is almost self-evident. No one,
not even these great Biblical characters is/was perfect, except, of course, the Son of God.
What about election and predestination? Why are some chosen and others apparently not?
Since God alone can bring salvation, how did He make these decisions?
What about time, as it applies to God? is time just a human dimension? If God can see
all of time laid out before Him, can he go back and make changes?
Could Jesus have sinned? We knew that he was tempted in the same way humans are
tempted and we know that He lived a perfect, Holy life, but could He have?
Why did God give humans the possibility of redemption and not the angels?
What will the new earth and the new heaven be like? What about those new, perfect
resurrected bodies?
Will we see loved ones in Heaven? Will we recognize them and have similar relationships
with them?
Well, I could certainly go on. While it is fun to ponder some of these issues, there is
plenty that has been revealed to us in God's word and creation. Obviously, we haven't
been given all the details... maybe they are to come and maybe we just won't
really care.
I am looking forward to the future. Come, Jesus! We are certainly ready to take
to our knees and exalt You!!
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Predestinally soul searching
Romans 8:29
— “For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestine to be conformed
to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many
brethren.”
The whole issue of predestination is a complex one. It's one of those things that is debated
and not fully understood or agreed upon. One thing that is for sure...the Bible states that
God predestined. He foreknew that certain souls would be saved.. would not perish as lost.
R. C. Sproul is very emphatic about the issue; he simply states that the Bible teaches
predestination.
There are also Bible verses that would seem to indicate that God does not want to lose
one single soul to eternal destruction.
Thus, we have a situation and there are a lot of "maybe's" that can be thrown out there
concerning these issues. Is God limited, somehow, in numbers when it comes to reaching
out, majestically, and drawing a soul inward? Could it be that the whole "free will" issue
comes into play, allowing unfortunate souls the right to reject the gospel? (Scary) Can folks
who have been lost find salvation in their lives at the latest minutes?
Well, my personal experience is that someone like me, who spent many unfortunate
years ignorant of the bases for salvation, can come to know and love Jesus after
having been separated for many years. This is Grace at its finest. It is God reaching out
and claiming one for His kingdom when that soul was completely undeserving of being
made righteous.
Evangelism would suggest that there is great work to do on many levels to teach
the gospel to people, one soul at a time. Whether we come to work on someone
through the guidance of the Holy Spirit or whether we reach out to someone we
love in the hopes that they might find salvation, it's a monumentally important
aspect of a Christian's life and walk.
I know one thing; I am never going to allow those I love to slip by without prayer
and effort. I owe them that; I owe God... everything!!!
The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as
some count slowness, but is patient toward you,not wishing that any
should perish, but that all should reach repentance.
Read 2 Peter 3 ESV
The whole issue of predestination is a complex one. It's one of those things that is debated
and not fully understood or agreed upon. One thing that is for sure...the Bible states that
God predestined. He foreknew that certain souls would be saved.. would not perish as lost.
R. C. Sproul is very emphatic about the issue; he simply states that the Bible teaches
predestination.
There are also Bible verses that would seem to indicate that God does not want to lose
one single soul to eternal destruction.
Thus, we have a situation and there are a lot of "maybe's" that can be thrown out there
concerning these issues. Is God limited, somehow, in numbers when it comes to reaching
out, majestically, and drawing a soul inward? Could it be that the whole "free will" issue
comes into play, allowing unfortunate souls the right to reject the gospel? (Scary) Can folks
who have been lost find salvation in their lives at the latest minutes?
Well, my personal experience is that someone like me, who spent many unfortunate
years ignorant of the bases for salvation, can come to know and love Jesus after
having been separated for many years. This is Grace at its finest. It is God reaching out
and claiming one for His kingdom when that soul was completely undeserving of being
made righteous.
Evangelism would suggest that there is great work to do on many levels to teach
the gospel to people, one soul at a time. Whether we come to work on someone
through the guidance of the Holy Spirit or whether we reach out to someone we
love in the hopes that they might find salvation, it's a monumentally important
aspect of a Christian's life and walk.
I know one thing; I am never going to allow those I love to slip by without prayer
and effort. I owe them that; I owe God... everything!!!
Monday, January 13, 2014
I wrote this blog on purpose!
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for
good, for those who are called according to his purpose. Rom 8: 38
Let's assume, if we may, that you who are reading this little blog have reached the
point of realizing that apart from the guidance, grace and love of God, our lives
really are purposeless. Part of worldly-centered purposes is the problem that such
purposes are both un-fulfilling and temporary.
That raise at work, that promotion, the bigger house, faster car, bank balance, even
that family that we love, will someday be cast apart by marriages and eventual death.
The things of this world that we sometimes strive for will not pass the test of time. We,
also, can have all or most of these things and be left, at the end of the day, with hearts
and souls that are incomplete... missing something.
So, that being said, what are our purposes?
Enjoyment of God's creation.... We have been born into a world created by God, a
world that He called Good. Despite the emergence of sin and the fact that the world remains
broken, it is a beautiful place with many things to enjoy. The blessings we enjoy are
plentiful: places of beauty to visit, a world full of plants and animals that amaze, a
family structure also created by God that permits us to enjoy and value loved ones
and friends, the list goes on.
Bringing glory to God... In appreciation for these blessings and especially for the
grace of salvation given to us by a loving God, we are here to glorify God by our
actions, words and deeds. He is an integral part of our lives, drawing enjoyment
from our dependence upon Him, our prayerful communications with Him and our
journey toward being transformed into the likeness of Jesus. He is totally worthy
of our constant efforts to glorify Him and love Him.
Causing a ripple.... We are here to love each other as commanded by Jesus. We,
through the way we treat those around us, can create a ripple effect that can
lead those who are lost toward redemption. Little things, that some might see as
insignificant, might bring light into lives as we shine the love of God in our walk.
Bringing a lost soul to God represents an event that could lead on to unknown
benefits of an exponential nature,
So live life fully. You have a purpose in the days that you live. You definitely can make
a difference..an eternal one!
Let's assume, if we may, that you who are reading this little blog have reached the
point of realizing that apart from the guidance, grace and love of God, our lives
really are purposeless. Part of worldly-centered purposes is the problem that such
purposes are both un-fulfilling and temporary.
That raise at work, that promotion, the bigger house, faster car, bank balance, even
that family that we love, will someday be cast apart by marriages and eventual death.
The things of this world that we sometimes strive for will not pass the test of time. We,
also, can have all or most of these things and be left, at the end of the day, with hearts
and souls that are incomplete... missing something.
So, that being said, what are our purposes?
Enjoyment of God's creation.... We have been born into a world created by God, a
world that He called Good. Despite the emergence of sin and the fact that the world remains
broken, it is a beautiful place with many things to enjoy. The blessings we enjoy are
plentiful: places of beauty to visit, a world full of plants and animals that amaze, a
family structure also created by God that permits us to enjoy and value loved ones
and friends, the list goes on.
Bringing glory to God... In appreciation for these blessings and especially for the
grace of salvation given to us by a loving God, we are here to glorify God by our
actions, words and deeds. He is an integral part of our lives, drawing enjoyment
from our dependence upon Him, our prayerful communications with Him and our
journey toward being transformed into the likeness of Jesus. He is totally worthy
of our constant efforts to glorify Him and love Him.
Causing a ripple.... We are here to love each other as commanded by Jesus. We,
through the way we treat those around us, can create a ripple effect that can
lead those who are lost toward redemption. Little things, that some might see as
insignificant, might bring light into lives as we shine the love of God in our walk.
Bringing a lost soul to God represents an event that could lead on to unknown
benefits of an exponential nature,
So live life fully. You have a purpose in the days that you live. You definitely can make
a difference..an eternal one!
Sunday, January 5, 2014
I know now, God, that you will not see ME!
But if we walk in light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of
Jesus, His son, cleanses us from all sin. 1 John 1:7
It's a truly daunting scenario! The Bible tells us that we will, at the day of judgement,
be called upon to account for each and every sin we have committed. Now that's a
situation that we cannot and will not avoid; it is God's promise and there are no
broken promises when it comes to God's word.
Now there is going to be a real problem accounting, one at a time, for the sins I have
committed in this lifetime. They are too many and too varied to even begin to
remember or consider. Yet, there I will be.. and you, as well, whether you happen to
believe in Jesus Christ or not. Time won't be an issue because time isn't a factor to
a God who is not under the limitations of time.
Well, it took some time, but I have come to understand and appreciate the ramifications
of the work Jesus did at the cross. He completed and paid the ransom for all those many
sins that have been a part of my life and, unfortunately, even with my best intentions, will
continue, at some pace, until that judgement day. He paid the price, and in so doing,
made it possible for a wondrous moment.
When our Almighty God looks upon me, and all those who have accepted the need for
the savior, Jesus, and who believe upon Him and call Him Lord, He will not see me. He
will not see a trembling, needy, fallen, sin-riddled soul. He will, instead, be gazing upon
the pure righteousness of His glorious son, Christ Jesus. He won't see me; He will see
Blessed Jesus.
Talk about a miracle, talk about a gift, talk about Grace...it's the gospel of Jesus Christ.
It's the one and only way to be assured of Life everlasting in the presence of God, Jesus
and the Spirit.
Thank you, God! All praise and glory to You!
Jesus, His son, cleanses us from all sin. 1 John 1:7
It's a truly daunting scenario! The Bible tells us that we will, at the day of judgement,
be called upon to account for each and every sin we have committed. Now that's a
situation that we cannot and will not avoid; it is God's promise and there are no
broken promises when it comes to God's word.
Now there is going to be a real problem accounting, one at a time, for the sins I have
committed in this lifetime. They are too many and too varied to even begin to
remember or consider. Yet, there I will be.. and you, as well, whether you happen to
believe in Jesus Christ or not. Time won't be an issue because time isn't a factor to
a God who is not under the limitations of time.
Well, it took some time, but I have come to understand and appreciate the ramifications
of the work Jesus did at the cross. He completed and paid the ransom for all those many
sins that have been a part of my life and, unfortunately, even with my best intentions, will
continue, at some pace, until that judgement day. He paid the price, and in so doing,
made it possible for a wondrous moment.
When our Almighty God looks upon me, and all those who have accepted the need for
the savior, Jesus, and who believe upon Him and call Him Lord, He will not see me. He
will not see a trembling, needy, fallen, sin-riddled soul. He will, instead, be gazing upon
the pure righteousness of His glorious son, Christ Jesus. He won't see me; He will see
Blessed Jesus.
Talk about a miracle, talk about a gift, talk about Grace...it's the gospel of Jesus Christ.
It's the one and only way to be assured of Life everlasting in the presence of God, Jesus
and the Spirit.
Thank you, God! All praise and glory to You!
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Lord, wake US up!
"Wake Me Up" Josh Wilson
Where have I been all my life?
What have I done with my time?
What ever happened to me?
How long have I been asleep?
Wake, wake me up, wake me up,
Wake me up inside.
Light up my heart with a spark
From Your burning light.
God please just wake me up
I wanna rise from the dead
And feel this heart beat again
Don't wanna waste one more day
Lord do whatever it takes
What have I done with my time?
What ever happened to me?
How long have I been asleep?
Wake, wake me up, wake me up,
Wake me up inside.
Light up my heart with a spark
From Your burning light.
God please just wake me up
I wanna rise from the dead
And feel this heart beat again
Don't wanna waste one more day
Lord do whatever it takes
A good Christian friend brought this song to my attention over the holidays, and I am
blessed to have heard it.
Disclaimer: This is one that will stick in your head, big time!
What made this all the more meaningful, is that it speaks to my life story; years of being
without any real knowledge of Jesus, the gospel, the Bible and God. When I realize that
sixty years of my life went by before a combination of God's grace reaching out to me and
my daughter taking me to a house church in Oxford,Ohio brought me to the knowledge
of the light of Jesus, it is frightening. I was truly ignorant; the kind of ignorance that can
lead to eternal existence away from the God of this universe.
So I have a prayer that I would offer in the name and to the glory of what Jesus does
for those he has reached out to. I humbly pray that it would be in the will of God to
reach out to anyone reading this blog who has not taken to his knees and asked
Jesus to be his Lord and bring them into the family of those who love Jesus as their
Lord and savior. Wake them up, God. bring them, I pray, to the peace and grace
that can only come when they become part of the shepherd's flock.
Wake us up, please precious Jesus!
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