A Spiritual Guide

Giving Praise Always 06.30.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Monday June 30, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Psalms. Please read Chapters 23-30 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2023-30&version=9

Today we will read and learn about the Great Shepherd; the King of Glory; a prayer for guidance; a love for God’s House; a prayer for God’s help; and adoration of God’s mighty power. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that giving praise to the Lord, even when we don’t feel like it brings powerful deliverance and joy.

David, the old shepherd-king who saw himself as nothing more than a sheep that needed to be led, was inspired by the Holy Spirit to write, “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.” (Psalm 23). No other livestock requires more attention than sheep. Left alone, they can easily become separated from the flock and lose their way. Of all domesticated animals, sheep are the most defenseless and helpless.

By nature, we are all like sheep. We may blindly follow the same paths that have ruined the lives of others. Or, we can become so caught up in our own affairs that we lose sight of the Great Shepherd and find ourselves separated from Him. The trouble with most of us is that many times we try to be our own shepherd. There is something almost terrifying about the consequences of the destructive, self-willed stubbornness of those who refuse to be led in the paths of righteousness. They are determined to go their own way, even though the path they take will inevitably lead to trouble and death. It is a fact that without the Great Shepherd we are helpless, defenseless sheep. When we recognize this we will fully trust the our Great Shepherd. We are comforted and encouraged by knowing that though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil because You are with me.

After David’s recovery from an affliction which had very nearly proven fatal, he testified, “I will extol thee, O LORD; for thou hast lifted me up, and hast not made my foes to rejoice over me. O LORD my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me. O LORD, thou hast brought up my soul from the grave: thou hast kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit. Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.” (30:1-4). He commenced with praise to God for His goodness and called upon all who, like himself, had known the loving-kindness of Jehovah, to join him in his thanksgiving. Distress of body or mind is common, and sooner or later it comes to almost everyone. Affliction was the instrument that God used to prompt David to write his wonderful Psalm, glorifying our wonderful Lord. He was driven to earnest prayer, and earnest prayer always leads to praise. The Psalmist saw the hand of God in his recovery. We overcome the fears of affliction when we recognize that it is not chance but God that lifted us up.

Whatever else God in mercy and wisdom may have in mind for His children who experience afflictions, there is one thing very clear, the Lord is near all who are suffering. What a comforting word! The Lord is near in all His tenderness and love, in all His power and grace.

In today’s message Jesus Christ is revealed as our Shepherd (Psalm 23). Christ declared: I am the Good Shepherd. (John 10:11).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Jesus, I want to praise You, my great Shepherd, for who You are and for Your acts of kindness seen so many times throughout my day. I should never cease to praise You because You never cease to work on my behalf. Your mercy and love, Your strength and comfort, Your sustaining power and guiding hand are only a tiny fraction of the many reasons that lead me to praise You. Instead of a murmuring and ungrateful attitude, I want to join with the multitude of believers and sing of my Great Shepherd’s praise to everyone, everywhere, all the time.  In Jesus’ name…..Amen.

Have a great day and week!
God Bless,
Christina

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Eyes of Faith 06.29.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Sunday June 29, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Psalms. Please read Chapters 12-22 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2012-22&version=9

Today we will read and learn about Judgment upon the wicked; David’s desire for justice; those who shall dwell with God; a prayer for protection, thanksgiving for deliverance; creation and Covenants of God; a prayer for God’s people; a cry of anguish and a song of praise. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that problems are rarely what they first seem to be. Let’s pray that God will allow us to see through the eyes of faith.

David asked a question that has eternal consequences, “Lord, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill?” (Psalm 15:1). David focused on two of the all-important issues of life when he asked: Who shall dwell? and Who shall abide? The Holy Spirit provided the answer, “He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.” (15:2-3). To work righteousness can only take place after one becomes a child of God through faith in Christ. To speak the truth in his heart comes from knowing God’s Word.

How wonderful to dwell in Him and to look forward to living in the presence of our Lord forever. Like David, let us rejoice, “I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons. I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.” (16:7-9). 

The Book of Psalms foretells the resurrection of Christ, forty days after His resurrection, Jesus Christ ascended heavenward to take His place at the right hand of the Father as ot had been prophesied. “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” (16:11).

The effects of the Word of God are beyond compare, for it was by His Word that the worlds were created and by which they are still upheld. “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork.” (19:1). Most exciting is the transforming power of Jesus, the Word of God made flesh, upon all who receive Him as Lord.

The first six verses of Psalm 19 refer to the works of God in the world, and the remaining eight refer to the marvelous influence of His Word on the lives of all who love and obey Him. It reveals the fear of the LORD which means a reverential admiration for His holiness and a fear of offending His majesty. The psalmist expresses well what our feelings should be concerning the incomparable Word of God. “More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.” (19:10).

Next to the revelation of God’s love, there is not a more important or more often repeated subject on the lips of Christ than the importance of the Word of God. The constant repeated reminder to read His Word proves that God knows our heart, how doubt and distrust toward Him are natural to us in our fallen state and how easily we are inclined to repeat our prayers without expecting an answer.

Before Jehoshaphat entered into battle with the vast armies of the Moabites and Ammonites, he prayed, then appointed singers to praise the Lord for the answer. He obtained an easy victory (II Chronicles 20:20-22). We are sometimes so elated by the triumph that we forget the One who made it possible.

In today’s reading Jesus Christ is revealed through the prophecy that God would not allow His Holy One to see corruption. (Psalm 16:10). This foretells of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 2:25-27; 13:35-39).

Enjoy the rest of your day.
God Bless,
Christina

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For or Against God 06.28.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Saturday June 28, 2008 and today we will begin our studies on the book of Psalms. Please read Psalm 1-11 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%201-11&version=9

The book of Psalm is the nineteenth book of the Old Testament and contains 150 chapters. The author of the book is King David except for a few that were written by others. The book was written to Israel, but has been used for devotion, prayer, and praise by believers down through the centuries. The book of Psalms was known as the hymn book of Israel. The word “Psalms” means “songs to the accompaniment of a stringed instrument.” It is the prayer and praise book of the Bible. The purpose of the book is to show that prayer, praise, intercession, and confession are all a part of true worship.

Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that we are either for or against God and there is no room for the world’s influence. We can not have both.

The key to receiving a blessing from God begins with this Scripture, ”Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.” (Psalm 1:1). There are three reasons to prove this, first, the ungodly may live acceptable lifestyles that conform to the basic moral standards of a society but still live and act as though the Creator God does not exist. Therefore, they assume that any religion, or none at all, is equally acceptable. In doing this, they accept no accountability to God and see no need of a Savior.

Second, sinners speak, act, think, and live to please themselves. They may be honest, upright, and generous in the eyes of the majority of people. They may even believe there is a God and may live a good, moral life. Consequently, they are deceived and see no need to repent of sin because they do not think they are sinners. The Christian life is centered in God, but the sinner’s life is centered on himself.

Third, the scornful makes known his belittling, antagonistic attitude against God the Father as Creator of all things and against worshiping Jesus Christ as God the Son - the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ (Titus 2:13). The scornful, for the most part, stand firmly and openly against the Bible and Jesus Christ as the only way to be saved and reach heaven.

“But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.” (1:2). The blessed person has an attitude of delight in the Law of the Lord. If we delight in pleasing Jesus Christ, we will “meditate” upon His Word. As we meditate prayerfully in His Law, the Holy Spirit speaks to our hearts, revealing the meaning of His Word for our lives. One of the great blessings that is imparted to those who meditate upon God’s Word comes silently and unnoticed, “And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” (1:3)

What a contrast to the superficial theories of happiness which human philosophy and psychology advocate. The secret of true and lasting peace is a right relationship with God. The ungodly are self-willed and walk after their own counsel while the blessed man depends upon direction from God through His Word.

In today’s reading Jesus Christ is revealed as the Son of God (Psalm 2:7). “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16).

Have a great and wonderful weekend!

God Bless,
Christina

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Accept By Faith 06.27.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Friday June 27, 2008 and today we are completing our studies on the book of Job. Please read Chapters 41-42 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job%2041-42&version=9

Today we will read and learn about the review of God’s great power, Job’s submission to God, Job praying for his friends and God blessing him for praying for them. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that it is not required that we understand everything that God sets before us, but only to be faithful and obedient to His Word.

The Lord answered Job, gloriously revealing Himself in a series of questions which caused Job to realize how little all of us know about what we accept by faith. Through a series of over 80 questions, God revealed to Job many of the wonders of the universe, some of which have only recently been discovered by science. 

Because of his faith in God and his patience through suffering, Job acknowledged the supreme authority of God compared to how little is known by mankind. Job confesses to God, “I know that thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from thee. Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. Hear, I beseech thee, and I will speak: I will demand of thee, and declare thou unto me. I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee. Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.” (Job 42:2-6). By this he meant: “You can do anything and although I do not understand, I will never again question what You do or what You allow to happen. Your wisdom is perfect and too wonderful for me to handle.”

All of us need to be reminded that our limited knowledge and ability to cope with life’s problems should cause us to realize how foolish, as well as sinful, it is to question the wisdom and love of God for His children. We need to accept, with submissive hearts, the circumstances He allows in our lives, which He will use to fulfill His loving, eternal purpose.

Through all of his suffering, the loss of family, wealth, friends and wife, he came to realize he didn’t know why. All Job needed was to know Who was in control of his life. Both Old and New Testaments teach that the just shall live by his faith (Habakkuk 2:4; Galatians 3:11; Hebrews 10:38). God, in His great wisdom and wonderful love, kept dealing with Job until he came to realize that he must trust God. We too must learn to trust Him. Those who trust in the Lord, as Job did, are not searching for the answers to all of life’s problems, nor asking the questions: “Why?” or “Why me?” They are simply trusting our loving, all-wise Father, who always knows what we need and will give the best to those who trust Him.

Eliphaz must have been shocked to hear God reprimand him. “And it was so, that after the LORD had spoken these words unto Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath. Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job. So Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite went, and did according as the LORD commanded them: the LORD also accepted Job.” (42:7-9).

Job could have become proud after God came to his defense. Instead, he humbly prayed for God to forgive his three friends who had so cruelly misjudged him and by doing so he recieved many more blessings than he imagined. “So the LORD blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning: for he had fourteen thousand sheep, and six thousand camels, and a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand she asses. He had also seven sons and three daughters.” (42:12-13).

When you recognize the Lord’s ways, all fears and frustrations vanish. Human reason has never been able to go beyond Job’s friends in explaining the great mysteries of human experience and creation.

The purpose of this book is not only to shed light on suffering but to show God’s method of developing our faith and godliness. What is infinitely more precious is that our wonderful Lord would lead us to see His sovereignty in all things.

In today’s message Jesus Christ is revealed through Job’s praying for his “friends” (Job 42:10). We are reminded of Christ’s command to pray for those who curse or falsely accuse us (Matthew 5:44; Luke 6:28).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Will You help me remain faithful and trusting to You and your calling upon my life. Strengthen and grow my faith as I daily read Your Word and apply their truths to my spiritual walk. As I go through trials and experiences of my earthly journey would You fix my eyes and my ever wandering heart upon You. When the howling winds and forceful storms of this life attempt to shipwreck my faith help me to instead prove my faith to be more than sufficient to withstand the continual assaults from the devil. I take refuge in You which will always lead me to glorious victory.  In Jesus’ name…..Amen.

Have a glorious and wonderful Friday. TGIF!
God Bless,
Christina

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God Is Always With You 06.26.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday June 26, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Job. Please read Chapters 38-40 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job%2038-40&version=9

Today we will read and learn about God interrupting Elihu’s speech, His challenge to Job, man’s weakness and ignorance, and Job becoming humble. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing when our world turns upside down and everything and everyone seems to be against us, God has promised that He would never leave us.

As Elihu continues his speech he is interrupted by the storm which had been gathering as he was talking. Suddenly the voice of God was heard out of the whirlwind and the accusations from the ultimate know it all came to an end. Is it any surprise that God interrupted Elihu’s speech and answered, “Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge? Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me.” (Job 38:1-3). For the first time since his suffering started, Job began hearing words of comfort rather than condemnation. God seemed to have been saying, “Be strong, I am here with you. 

First, God wanted Job to consider the limitations of his own wisdom compared to the wisdom of the One who created the universe, “Canst thou bind the sweet influences of Pleiades (the 7 stars that stood for the 7 influences of spring) , or loose the bands of Orion (that stood for the storms)?” (38:31). God asked Job about 60 questions in this first cycle of conversation (38:1 - 40:2), and over 80 questions altogether (38 - 41). The wisest astronomer can’t explain or change one star in the marvelous array of Pleiades, one of the most beautiful clusters of stars.

The Mighty God, who created the universe, also created us, cares for us, patiently listens to our prayers, and provides us with what is best for us in the light of our eternal destination. We need to see how unqualified we are to question His wisdom. Nothing is unforeseen and no one is overlooked, slighted, or left out by our Heavenly Father. He imparts inner strength and sustains us by His indwelling Holy Spirit and He will never give us anything that He know we can not handle. God knows our strengths more than we do and He will help all endure their struggles, all we have to do is call on Him.

God’s faithfulness to His people often comes like a storm, but the Lord is in the storm, and He speaks from it just as He answered Job’s grief from his whirlwind. Day after day, Job was left to wonder why he experienced all the disasters, but there was not even the slightest word to explain his suffering. God revealed His greatness, power, and majesty, through His creation. He will reveal His very best to all who will trust Him. These chapters also show how confident one can be to trust God regardless of circumstances.

Faith is trusting God even when we don’t understand. When we consider the greatness of God’s wisdom, we recognize how unfit we are to understand God’s ways. Those who see God’s hand controlling everything are enabled to leave everything in His hands.

In today’s reading Jesus Christ is revealed through the One who laid the foundations of the earth (Job 38:4). By Christ, God created our universe (Hebrews 1:1-2). All things were made by Him. (John 1:1-3).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
As we live by faith and not by sight we see much of what the world does not see because we see it through Your eyes. By faith we see a risen Savior who died for us and who is now interceding on our behalf. By faith we believe that life’s trials will be worth it all when we are ushered into the pearly gates and gather with saints of all the ages to praise our glorious Savior around the throne. It is by faith that we come to Jesus and it is by faith that we will stay the course. For it is not the one who runs the swiftest nor the one who runs for a day, but the one who endures to the end that will be saved. The struggles of this life diminish when we walk by faith and not by sight. Navigate our steps as we journey here below. In Jesus’ name, I pray……Amen.

Have a great and wonderful day!
God Bless,
Christina

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God Is Always With You 06.26.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday June 26, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Job. Please read Chapters 38-40 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job%2038-40&version=9

Today we will read and learn about God interrupting Elihu’s speech, His challenge to Job, man’s weakness and ignorance, and Job becoming humble. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing when our world turns upside down and everything and everyone seems to be against us, God has promised that He would never leave us.

As Elihu continues his speech he is interrupted by the storm which had been gathering as he was talking. Suddenly the voice of God was heard out of the whirlwind and the accusations from the ultimate know it all came to an end. Is it any surprise that God interrupted Elihu’s speech and answered, “Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge? Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me.” (Job 38:1-3). For the first time since his suffering started, Job began hearing words of comfort rather than condemnation. God seemed to have been saying, “Be strong, I am here with you. 

First, God wanted Job to consider the limitations of his own wisdom compared to the wisdom of the One who created the universe, “Canst thou bind the sweet influences of Pleiades (the 7 stars that stood for the 7 influences of spring) , or loose the bands of Orion (that stood for the storms)?” (38:31). God asked Job about 60 questions in this first cycle of conversation (38:1 - 40:2), and over 80 questions altogether (38 - 41). The wisest astronomer can’t explain or change one star in the marvelous array of Pleiades, one of the most beautiful clusters of stars.

The Mighty God, who created the universe, also created us, cares for us, patiently listens to our prayers, and provides us with what is best for us in the light of our eternal destination. We need to see how unqualified we are to question His wisdom. Nothing is unforeseen and no one is overlooked, slighted, or left out by our Heavenly Father. He imparts inner strength and sustains us by His indwelling Holy Spirit and He will never give us anything that He know we can not handle. God knows our strengths more than we do and He will help all endure their struggles, all we have to do is call on Him.

God’s faithfulness to His people often comes like a storm, but the Lord is in the storm, and He speaks from it just as He answered Job’s grief from his whirlwind. Day after day, Job was left to wonder why he experienced all the disasters, but there was not even the slightest word to explain his suffering. God revealed His greatness, power, and majesty, through His creation. He will reveal His very best to all who will trust Him. These chapters also show how confident one can be to trust God regardless of circumstances.

Faith is trusting God even when we don’t understand. When we consider the greatness of God’s wisdom, we recognize how unfit we are to understand God’s ways. Those who see God’s hand controlling everything are enabled to leave everything in His hands.

In today’s reading Jesus Christ is revealed through the One who laid the foundations of the earth (Job 38:4). By Christ, God created our universe (Hebrews 1:1-2). All things were made by Him. (John 1:1-3).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
As we live by faith and not by sight we see much of what the world does not see because we see it through Your eyes. By faith we see a risen Savior who died for us and who is now interceding on our behalf. By faith we believe that life’s trials will be worth it all when we are ushered into the pearly gates and gather with saints of all the ages to praise our glorious Savior around the throne. It is by faith that we come to Jesus and it is by faith that we will stay the course. For it is not the one who runs the swiftest nor the one who runs for a day, but the one who endures to the end that will be saved. The struggles of this life diminish when we walk by faith and not by sight. Navigate our steps as we journey here below. In Jesus’ name, I pray……Amen.

Have a great and wonderful day!
God Bless,
Christina

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Twisting God’s Word 06.25.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Wednesday June 25, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Job. Please read Chapters 34-37 in Your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job%2034-37&version=9

Today we will read and learn about the continuous accusations against Job by Elihu. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that Satan will twist the scriptures to try to mislead us. Just one more reason why we must read all of the Bible for ourselves.

Elihu did not speak until Job’s three friends had ended their accusations. He condemned Job’s three friends, but expressed even greater hostility toward Job. It appears that he proclaims God’s justice and goodness, bringing out some real truths of God and His majesty, but he wrongly interprets Job’s defense as hypocrisy and self-righteousness. Elihu’s accusations against Job’s testimony are, at best, half-truths and misinterpretations (33:8-13).

Elihu was so self-righteous himself that he failed to recgonize that he was the one sinning. One of Elihu’s accusations was that Job had claimed to be sinlessly perfect, “For Job hath said, I am righteous: and God hath taken away my judgment. Should I lie against my right? my wound is incurable without transgression.” (Job 34:5-6). The fact is Job acknowledged his imperfection as sin in 7:21 and 13:26. However, the Lord proclaimed Job as My servant a perfect and an upright man.

Elihu falsely stated that Job has said, It profits a man nothing that he should delight himself with God (34:9). But Job never said that. Elihu continued his vicious attack on this dear, godly man, saying: “Job hath spoken without knowledge, and his words were without wisdom. My desire is that Job may be tried unto the end because of his answers for wicked men. For he addeth rebellion unto his sin, he clappeth his hands among us, and multiplieth his words against God.” (Job 34:35-37). His desire that Job be tried was granted. Just think how opposite and differing in character his evaluation of Job was in contrast to God’s.

Counselors may have all the degrees and qualifications the world can give, but unless their advice is in harmony with God’s Word, it is “darkened counsel.”

During times of personal afflications, heartbreaking bereavement, persecution, or financial struggles, we are often tempted to become depressed so that we even fail to pray. That is when we need someone’s loving comfort and assurance that our Lord ultimately controls every situation that comes into our lives. Regardless of how bad it may seem, He wants to use it for our good and for His glory. “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.“ (Romans 8:26-28).

In today’s reading Jesus Christ is revealed through the One who watches how we live and all we do (Job 34:21). The Lord keeps His eyes on the righteous (I Peter 3:12).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
We are confronted with deception on many fronts every day, so much so, that we can be deceived without even realizing it. Would You help us to watch out and be on our guard so that we are not deceived by man’s words, no matter how convincing they are, how charming their personality, or how cunning their craft. Help us not to fall for Satan’s deceptive tactics that have brought down believers throughout the church age. We seek You for strength and discipline. We search the Scriptures ourselves for discernment and the true revelation of the truth. In Jesus’ name…..Amen.

Have a great and wonderful day!
God Bless,
Christina

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Facing Criticism 06.24.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Tuesday June 24, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Job. Please read Chapters 30-33 in your Bible or Click Here to read.
Cut & Paste to browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job%2030-33&version=9

Today we will read and learn about Job’s proclamation of his integrity and Elihu’s accusations. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that our world today scorns truth and often criticizes those who live by it, but without truth it is impossible to make an impact.

As if the shocking death of his ten children, loss of all his property, his personal suffering from a most painful disease, his being made the object of contempt by his wife and of suspicion and reproach by his friends had not been enough, Job was subjected to the humiliation and insult by those who walked by and spit on him. “They abhor me, they flee far from me, and spare not to spit in my face. Because he hath loosed my cord, and afflicted me, they have also let loose the bridle before me. Upon my right hand rise the youth; they push away my feet, and they raise up against me the ways of their destruction.” (Job 30:10-12). He probably was still sitting among the ashes, covered from head to foot with painful boils.

It would appear that Satan had instigated all the powers of wickedness against him. Job expressed his pitiful loneliness, “Terrors are turned upon me: they pursue my soul as the wind: and my welfare passeth away as a cloud. And now my soul is poured out upon me; the days of affliction have taken hold upon me.…..He hath cast me into the mire, and I am become like dust and ashes. I cry unto thee, and thou dost not hear me: I stand up, and thou regardest me not.“ (30:15-16, 19-20).

One of the most difficult trials for a Christian is to pray, and continue praying, without any apparent sign that God has heard. But the effectiveness of our prayers cannot be judged by immediate results. There are many reasons for delay. Sometimes God does not grant our request because He will provide something better. At other times, He withholds material benefits in order to impart spiritual understanding. The very fact that our requests are sometimes granted and sometimes denied is proof in itself that we are cared for by a God of love whose ways are governed by His wisdom and always for our best.

In chapter 31 he listed 12 common sins that no one could accuse him of committing. Yet, in his time of need, no one showed compassion or expressed a kind word to him. For Job, there seemed to be no end to the cruelty of the people who made his suffering even more painful and miserable. Not one of his friends showed him any comfort only criticizm and accusations. 

At such times our faith is put to the test, for we are to walk by faith and are not to be dependent upon the things that are seen. We are to trust the Lord and the promises of His Word. Faith does not originate with us, but it is a gift from God. “Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” (II Corinthians 5:6-8).

Job’s three friends mistakenly judged his relationship to God, but he did not allow them to destroy his faith. As we consider Job, whom God declared the most perfect man on earth should we be surprised when we are falsely criticized? The most devoted Christian often suffers the worst indignities and humiliation from thoughtless, inconsiderate people, even from some who profess to be Christians. The Apostle Paul encouraged all of us when he was led to write, “We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth; So that we ourselves glory in you in the churches of God for your patience and faith in all your persecutions and tribulations that ye endure: Which is a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:” (II Thessalonians 1:3-5).

In today’s reading Jesus Christ is revealed through  the ridicule and affliction which Job suffered (Job 30:10-11). Christ was afflicted and spat upon. After Pilate delivered Jesus to the Roman soldiers, they flogged Him, hit Him with a stick and spit on Him and then they crucified Him (Mark 15:15-20).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
As we live in the Light of Your Word the devil’s venomous plots are exposed. We are not caught by surprise, but rather we are filled with Your Spirit which prepares us to be on the offense rather than the defense. We walk in truth and confidence as we stand strong on the day of evil. As we wear the full armor You have provided, for our protection, we can fight against the devil’s evil tricks.  Our fight is not against flesh and blood but against the powers of this world’s darkness and the spiritual powers of evil in the heavenly world. So we pray in the spirit continuously asking for Your discernment strength, and guidance.  We also pray for our brothers and sisters that together we will stand firm against the enemy of our souls. In Jesus’ name…..Amen

Have a wonderful day!
God Bless,
Christina

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Choices 06.23.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Monday June 23, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Job. Please read Chapters 25-29 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job%2025-29&version=9

Today we will read and learn about Bildad’s answer; Job’s reproof of Bildad; Job’s praise to God; Job’s truthfulness; the source of wisdom; and Job recalling his past wealth. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that we have a choice in our struggles, we can live depressed and without God and never see a change or we can seek God in the midst of our struggles and live peacefully knowing that we will see victory as we endure them.

Bildad speaks for the third time and insinuates that Job was an unclean worm who could not be justified with God. “How then can man be justified with God? or how can he be clean that is born of a woman? Behold even to the moon, and it shineth not; yea, the stars are not pure in his sight. How much less man, that is a worm? and the son of man, which is a worm?” (Job 25:4-6). In the midst of all the false insinuations, Job looked beyond the criticisms to the Source of all true wisdom. “But where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding? Man knoweth not the price thereof; neither is it found in the land of the living.” (28:12-13).

Job was expressing his utmost confidence that God is the Author and Revealer of true wisdom. There is no substitute for reading all of His Word to understand His perfect plan for our lives. This means that it is important to read through every book of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, with a sincere desire to apply its instruction to our own lives. We can be sure that Satan will attempt to distract us from the true source of wisdom and cause us to make decisions based on circumstances or contemporary standards.

However, Job was never as concerned about knowing the answer to his problems as he was about having a right relationship with God. “And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the LORD, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding.” (28:28). The more we truly humble ourselves and die to pride, the less we will be affected by the criticism of others.

Those who leave Christ, the Living Word, out of their lives will never discover true wisdom and understanding. They will miss the greatest discovery of life,Christ, who is the source of all truth. To neglect and disregard Him and His Word is to remain in ignorance of the true purpose for life and remain in spiritual darkness.

The worldly-minded find fault with God, just as the Israelites did as they journeyed through the wilderness. They complained about their circumstances instead of acknowledging that God was in control. We too can make unwise decisions when we allow ourselves to become frustrated. To illustrate, we may say to someone: “You make me angry.” But the fact is, we choose to be angry Or we may say: “I am depressed today.” However, the sad truth is that we have refused to see God in the circumstances He has allowed to take place in our lives.

We can be sure that our Lord is far more concerned with our best interests than we are. “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls to him in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.” (I Peter 4: 17-19). We always have the choice to move above and beyond anger and disappointments by permitting the indwelling Christ to rule our lives.

In today’s reading Jesus Christ is revealed through Job’s compassion for others (Job 29:15-17,21-25). Jesus was moved with compassion when He saw great crowds in need of healing and feeding (Matthew 15:30-39).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
The cares of this world often press in on us and weigh our hearts down. It’s not your desire that we carry a heavy load because You are the Burden Bearer. You use the difficult circumstances of our lives to bring glory to Yourself as You bring spiritual maturity into our relationship with You. Our faith is strengthened and our understanding deepened as You take the evil that Satan hurls at us and turn it into glorious occasion for Your power to be released and deliverance to take place. You are the same God who led us into battle that will also lead us to victory! In Jesus’ name…..Amen.

Have a great Monday and week.
God Bless,
Christina

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Trials of Faith 06.22.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Sunday June 22, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Job. Please read Chapters 21-24 in your Bible or Click Here to read.
Cut & Paste to browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Job%2021-24&version=9

Today we will read and learn about Job declaring that wicked men sometimes prosper; Eliphaz accusing Job of sin; and Job’s desire to plead his case before God. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that we can either allow trials to bring us closer to God or to drive us away from Him. Being faithful to God and His Word will bring us through with victory.

It is shocking to read how wrong Job’s friends could be with their blunt, critical, and cruel condemnation of him. They mistakenly supposed that all his problems were the result of his secret sins. They assumed that wicked men are miserable and, since Job was exceedingly miserable, he must be very wicked! As Job responds, the question arises: Why do the wicked prosper and go unpunished? “Suffer me that I may speak; and after that I have spoken, mock on. As for me, is my complaint to man? and if it were so, why should not my spirit be troubled? Mark me, and be astonished, and lay your hand upon your mouth. Even when I remember I am afraid, and trembling taketh hold on my flesh. Wherefore do the wicked live, become old, yea, are mighty in power?” (Job 21:3-7).

Eliphaz speaks for the 3rd time, making Job sound like a liar, “Therefore snares are round about thee, and sudden fear troubleth thee; Or darkness, that thou canst not see; and abundance of waters cover thee. Is not God in the height of heaven? and behold the height of the stars, how high they are! And thou sayest, How doth God know? can he judge through the dark cloud? Thick clouds are a covering to him, that he seeth not; and he walketh in the circuit of heaven.” (22:10-14). There are still self-righteous, overbearing, opinionated people like Eliphaz, who are quick to pass judgment on anyone who doesn’t believe as they do or who experience difficulties or sickness.

Job’s faith was unshakable because he could truthfully say, “On the left hand, where he doth work, but I cannot behold him: he hideth himself on the right hand, that I cannot see him: But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.” (23:9-12). He believed that, since God was faithful to His Word, He also would be faithful to His obedient servant. It is as if Job had said: “In the midst of my suffering and sorrows, in faith I turned to and trust whatever God chooses for me. So great was my need for assurance, I seized upon it as a starving man for a meal. I devoured it and indeed my soul was comforted and I was strengthened. I turned from the husks of comfort that my friends offered and can testify that only faith in God and His Word will satisfy.”

We often do not understand why we face disappointments, sufferings, or being misunderstood. But, we can believe and trust in God, since He always gives His best to all who desire to do His will.

Some have assumed they were a Christian because they were a member of a church, but they have not experienced the transforming power of God’s Word. Like Judas, they may talk like a Christian and yet they do not desire Christ as Lord of their lives. To have a Bible but no desire to know how God would have them live is useless. Until they repent of their sins and accept Christ as both Savior and Lord, the Bible has little value.

The faith of Job should be an inspiration to all of us who are not as concerned about knowing the “reason” for our suffering as with knowing God, who will see us through it, and His Word, the only true source of guidance.

In today’s reading Jesus Christ is revealed through Job’s faithfulness to God during all his suffering (Job 23:10-12). Christ’s faithfulness to the Father is seen as He prayed for the Father’s will to be done (Luke 22:42).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
We’re so thankful that we don’t have to step out on our own and rely on our connections, wisdom, giftings, or experience to receive Your blessings.  Whatever challenge we face can be met by remembering Your promise that You will never leave us nor forsake us. Lord, help us to remain faithful to You no matter what trial we are faced with. Remind us that it is through these trials that we will prevail and see victory and many blessings by putting our complete trust and faith in You. In Jesus’ name……Amen.

Enjoy the rest of your day.
God Bless,
Christina

Visit: A Spiritual Guide
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