A Spiritual Guide

Giving God Control 07.21.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Monday July 21, 2008 and today we are beginning our studies on the book of Proverbs. The book of Proverbs is the twentieth book in the Old Testament and contains 31 chapters. The book was written by David’s son, Solomon, with the exception of  chapters 30 and 31. The book was first written to Israel, but the truths for practical living are applicable to all believers and the purpose of the book is to show that no matter what the world has to offer without the Lord, all is vanity.

The choice of whom we will serve is of utmost importance, for it affects everything else in life. With the same intense energy by which worldly success is pursued by many, Christians should seek achievements of eternal value for the good of others and the glory of God.

In today’s reading Jesus Christ is revealed as the Creator, “The LORD by wisdom hath founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens.” (3:19). “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:” (Colossians 1:16).

Dear Lord,
We pray for a sincere heart that is sensitive to Biblical truths as they apply to our lives.  We struggle with forgetfulness and indifference which are twin enemies of a living vibrant relationship with You. Lord, we invite You to arrange the circumstances of our lives that will keep us patiently looking to You and asking for Your divine guidance instead of trying to take on the world without You. In Jesus’ name……Amen.

Have a great day and week!
God Bless,
Christina

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Praise The Lord 7.20.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Sunday July 20, 2008 and today we are completing our studies on the book of Psalms. Please read Chapters 144-150 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20144-150&version=9

Today we will learn about David’s praise for God’s mercy and goodness; the benefits of trusting in God; all creation urged to praise the Lord; and triumph in the God of Israel. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that we need to praise God always as praising God give us hope and increases our faith in Him.

The psalmist begins and ends each of the last five psalms saying, “Praise ye the LORD”, which is the literal translation of the Hebrew word Hallelujah. He further proclaims, “Praise ye the LORD. Praise the LORD, O my soul. While I live will I praise the LORD: I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being……Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God: Which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is: which keepeth truth for ever” (Psalm 146:1-2, 5-6). Praising God not only lifts Him up it also lifts us up as well, giving us the hope that we can get through our struggles.

The more we are determined to truly put Christ first in our lives, the more we will experience interruptions which demand our time and attention. Many times, we allow even the good things to keep us from the best that God has to offer. Remember, God knows our hearts and also knows if we are truthful in our walk with Him. While we do not see beyond the surface, God does and no matter how good we look on the outside we can not hide the inside.

The Psalms in this book make us aware that nothing comes into our lives by accident. Everything God permits satan to do to us is to develop His highest good in us. These closing psalms assure us we have a loving, Heavenly Father who wants the best for His children and all we have to to is call on Him and have the patience to seek and trust Him in all that we do.

God has provided His Word as the One True Guide that reveals how we should live to please Him. Our Lord has provided His Church where we can sing praises to Him, share our testimonies with others who love Him, and receive instruction and inspiration from spiritual leaders. As Christians, we were never meant to be self-sufficient, independent loners, but responsible members of the Body of Christ, which is the Church. “Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.” (Ephesians 4:13-16).

The Book of Psalms concludes by saying, “Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.” (Psalm 150:6).

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

Enjoy your day!
God Bless,
Christina

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God Knows Everything 07.18.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Friday July 18, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Psalms. Please read Chapters 132-143 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20132-143&version=9

Today we will read about a prayer for God’s blessing; the joy of unity; exhortation to praise the Lord; God’s enduring mercy; God’s Word magnified, the all-seeing providence of God; David’s prayer for deliverance from Saul; comfort in prayer; and a prayer for mercy in judgment. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that Satan would like for us to believe that we can hide our sin and get away with it, but the truth is God knows our hearts and knows everything sin that we commit.

Those who form the family of God should surely live together in peace and harmony. You will be unable to discover any beauty worth speaking of in the false unity created and maintained by compromise of principles and man made rules and regulations. “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.” (Psalm 133).

The unity that is pleasant to the Lord is the unity of Christians brought about through the Holy Spirit. We are all unique, yet there is perfect unity. The word pleasant denotes delightful and lovely. It should be an attitude manifestation toward others.

God reveals that, at conception, we became a person, a living soul. Although, as an unborn infant, we were hidden from human view, as if buried in the earth, our bodies are no mystery to our Creator, who prepares us for our journey on earth. Nothing that we are going through is a surprise to God because He already knew that it was going to happen. God explains this to David as He inspired him to write Psalm 139. “O lord, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether.” (Psalm 139: 1-4).

David shows us that a sincere love of God prompts a clear break from sin, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (139:23-24). This request expresses sincerity. It is not the request of one who was ignorant of his true character and inflated with presumption, but of one who thoroughly knew his natural human tendency to self deception. Just as one unguarded entrance to a high-walled city may admit an invading horde, David knew that yielding to one temptation could weaken an otherwise guarded life.

Let us be well assured that God alone knows our hearts completely. For example, David in his time of sins of adultery and murder, apparently lived without confession and without forgiveness and without his conscience convicting him because he was in all other activities appearing as a very good and gracious king of the kingdom of God. ”(See II Samuel). One year later the prophet Nathan was led of God to show David what he was doing wrong. It was God’s authoritative Word that brought conviction and exposed David’s wickedness to his own heart. Deeply grieved, David confessed his sin, repented, and was pardoned by God and restored to fellowship with Him. But as God foretold, David suffered many tragedies to the day of his death.

The Word, by the power of the Holy Spirit, is the instrument which the Lord God uses today to search the depths of the human heart.

In today’s message Jesus Christ is revealed as the descendant of David. “The LORD hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne.” (Psalm 132:11). “He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David:” (Luke 1:32).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Nothing brings abiding peace more than knowing that we are saved from the penalty of sin and that we are firmly grounded in Your holy precepts. It makes us feel safe in a struggling world that continues to search for knowledge from all the wrong sources. We are sound in our outlook when we align our understanding and convictions with the teachings of Christ, in You we are saved and we are sound. In Jesus’ name…..Amen.

Enjoy the rest of your day and weekend! TGIF!

God Bless,
Christina

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Patience 07.17.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday July 17, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Psalms. Please read Chapters 120-131 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20120-131&version=9

Today we will read about a prayer for deliverance from lying lips; sustaining power; a prayer for the peace of Jerusalem; and blessings for trusting God. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that we must wait patiently on God. It becomes easier to be patient when we fully realize God never goes back on His Word and that He is with us even when we think He is not.

The Law required all male Jews physically able and ceremonially clean to go to Jerusalem three times a year to participate in the seven feasts (Exodus 23:14-17; Deuteronomy 16:16). Some of the men may have traveled from one to three weeks to arrive in Jerusalem, but these were to be journeys of great joy. They sang with assurance that the Lord would protect their homes and possessions during their absence. “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand.” (Psalm 121:1-5). Just as we pray in our hearts for help in our time of need, protection from our enemies, or give joyful praise to God them men sang praise to God during their travels.

Christians have frustrations and fears and it is of utmost importance that we know how to resolve these emotional problems. God led the psalmist to reveal the true source of help during these problems. “In my distress I cried unto the LORD, and he heard me.” (120:1). “I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.” (130:5). The Israelites were taught to trust in the Lord for provisions and protection, and to wait for Him.

Patience is indispensable as we wait upon the Lord our God, at first, we may even submit to the Lord even against our will, but once we begin to let Him in we learn that past experiences teach us that patiently waiting is our wisest course and that through God we finally have that hope we have been longing for. We want His will in us. Waiting upon the Lord is the expression of our faith in Him and allows God to deal with us in such a way and time as He thinks best.

To many it will appear impossible and too difficult to wait upon God, they lost their faith and either walk away from Him completely or can never believe that there is a true God that will protect or save us. The one who knows God will not depend upon his own judgment or his own ability, but will put their faith in Him, never giving up and will wait until God gives them direction. Patiently waiting upon God is a test of our faith in Him and brings His rich reward to us. “Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth.” (Psalm 37:7-9).

In today’s reading Jesus Christ is revealed as the One who preserves us. (Psalm 121:8). “And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (II Timothy 4:18).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
For many the circumstances in life are so uncertain and the solutions to our problems can be very perplexing and seem beyond our grasp. There are many things that we do not seem to understand, but we know You are our Savior and Protector and that You give us the hope we need for tomorrow. Thank you, God, that You do not expect us to have all the right answers or to fully understand all that concerns us. You simply want us to trust You as we hold on to Your unchanging hand while You go before us making our paths straight. Grant us the grace to trust You more and give us the wisdom and understanding of Your Word to know Your will for our lives. In Jesus’ name…..Amen.

Enjoy the rest of your day!
God Bless,
Christina

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With All Your Heart 07.16.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Wednesday July 16, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Psalms. Please read Chapter 119 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=23&chapter=119&version=9

Today we will read about the greatness, power, and perfection of God’s Word. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that the disappointments of this life soon teach us that true joy comes from loving God not from the things of the world. We need to focus our attention on the only infallible Guide to Life given by our Creator, God’s Word.

In this chapter God has provided everything we need to be the person He created and planned for us to be. It is equally emphasized how indispensable it is to know our Creator, Savior, and soon-coming Messiah and King. “Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD. Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently.” (Psalm 119:1-4). The undefiled means much more than just avoiding sin or living a good life. We are specially blessed by God as we seek to please Him with the whole heart.

Although the writer of this psalm is unknown, David has been suggested as its author. David sought the Lord, observed His Laws, and prayed for His help with his whole heart. “With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments.” (119:10). How necessary it is when praying, reading God’s Word, or seeking his will, that we do it whole heartly. 

It is by taking daily delight in God’s Word, as much as in all riches, that our fellowship with the Lord is assured. The psalmist continues, “I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word. Deal bountifully with thy servant, that I may live, and keep thy word.” (119:15-17). This kind of forgetting is more than a momentary memory lapse. It is drifting away from God as a result of becoming so involved in other interests that His Word is neglected.

We need to pray daily, “Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end. Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart. Make me to go in the path of thy commandments; for therein do I delight. Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness. Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way.” (119:33-37). As we do this, we have something to sing about regardless of our circumstances.

Though he had been afflicted, the psalmist did not find fault with God, nor did he doubt the Lord’s wisdom or His justice. For many, it is in times like these that we painfully recognize that we have made wrong choices in the past which have led to unwholesome consequences. In such circumstances we realize that the Bible is priceless, for it alone reveals life’s true values and prepares us for eternity. All who love the Lord can say, “LORD, I have hoped for thy salvation, and done thy commandments. My soul hath kept thy testimonies; and I love them exceedingly. I have kept thy precepts and thy testimonies: for all my ways are before thee. Let my cry come near before thee, O LORD: give me understanding according to thy word. Let my supplication come before thee: deliver me according to thy word.” (119:116-170)

In today’s reading Jesus Christ is revealed through the psalmist who delighted in the Commandments of God (Psalm 119:47). Jesus said, “For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me.” (John 6:38)

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
As Your children we need to regularly examine our hearts to see if there are things, pursuits, or attitudes that are drawing us away from Your heart and thrusting us once again into the mindset of the world. Our heart’s examinations are not intended to condemn us but to refresh our spirit and remind us of our godly heritage. Father, since You know our hearts more than we do ourselves, reveal to us that which helps and that which hinders our Christian walk. As we walk in obedience to You we’re grateful for the peace and rest we receive in knowing that You do not condemn us but deliver mercy to help us in our time of need.  You do not stand over us in judgment, but You walk alongside us assuring us of Your unwavering love and unending mercy that will see us through on this side of the journey.  In Jesus’ name….Amen.

Enjoy the rest of your day!
God Bless,
Christina

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Fearing God 07.15.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Tuesday July 15, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Psalms. Please read Chapters 108-118 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20108-118&version=9

Today we will read about David’s praise to God for His sovereignty over nations; a prayer for judgment upon the wicked; prophecies of Jesus including His being rejected, and the urgency to trust in God, not idols. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that it is easy to praise the Lord in good times, but it is the hard times that purify our praise and bless all who fear Him.

David’s mighty army go into battle singing Psalm 108, “O God, my heart is fixed; I will sing and give praise, even with my glory. Awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early. I will praise thee, O LORD, among the people: and I will sing praises unto thee among the nations. For thy mercy is great above the heavens: and thy truth reacheth unto the clouds.” (Psalm 108:1-4). No matter what we are facing singing praises to the Lord will not only prepare us it will also strengthen us for the battle.

When Jesus Christ ascended into heaven, He fulfilled the prophecy which the Holy Spirit had earlier inspired King David to write. “The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool. The LORD shall send the rod of thy strength out of Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine enemies.” (110:1-2). Jesus quoted this psalm referring to Himself (Mark 12:36).

David also foretold that Israel, as a nation, would reject their Messiah King. “The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. This is the LORD’s doing; it is marvellous in our eyes…….Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the LORD: we have blessed you out of the house of the LORD. God is the LORD, which hath shewed us light: bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar. Thou art my God, and I will praise thee: thou art my God, I will exalt thee. O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.” (118:22-23, 26-29). Christ will still reign by divine appointment even though Israel, as a nation, rejected their Messiah King.

When we consider Him, how can we help but worship with the psalmist, “Praise ye the LORD. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD, that delighteth greatly in his commandments.” (112:1). A respectful fear of God inspires a love for Him that will move us to delight in His Commandments. This is the fear of God that is an essential part of the life of every Christian. We are not to be afraid of God, we are to be afraid of living without Him.

There is something peaceful about knowing God is with us in the midst of our struggles. Although God does not stop us from facing them as we accept Him into our lives He does give us hope that we will get through them. A hope that nothing or anyone on this earth can give us. “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:1-2).

In today’s reading Jesus Christ is revealed through The Stone which the builders rejected, (Psalm 118:22). Jesus quoted from Psalm 118 to the chief priests and the Pharisees when they rejected Him. (Matthew 21:42-45).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Thank You for Your repeated warnings in Scripture that informs, instructs and protects us from those who try to hurt us and the evil one. Help us not to ignore your warnings or procrastinate in our obedience to Your commands. Embolden our spiritual leaders to be fearless watchmen who speak out Your truths, even when they’re not popular or politically expedient. May we be receptive to Your Word and obedient in our response. In Jesus’ name…..Amen.

Enjoy your day!
God Bless,
Christina

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Desire God’s Word 07.14.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Monday July 14, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Psalms. Please read Chapters 106-107 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20106-107&version=9

Today we will read about Israel’s rebellion in the wilderness; God’s mercies to Israel; and urging to praise God for His goodness. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that learning to be obedient to God’s Word must be the sincere desire of every Christian.

Although God had faithfully blessed Israel, miraculously delivered them from Egyptian slavery, provided the promised land, and given them victory over the Canaanites and great prosperity they still forgot what He had done for them. ”And he saved them from the hand of him that hated them, and redeemed them from the hand of the enemy. And the waters covered their enemies: there was not one of them left. Then believed they his words; they sang his praise. They soon forgat his works; they waited not for his counsel: But lusted exceedingly in the wilderness, and tempted God in the desert.” (Psalm 106:10-14).

The magnificence of Israel’s history was not the result of her heroes, priests, or prophets, but rather it was the fulfillment of God’s Word (Genesis 12:7). Accordingly, all failures which were written in their history, all losses, defeats in battle, famines, and exiles were to be seen as consequences of disobedience to His Word. “Therefore he said that he would destroy them, had not Moses his chosen stood before him in the breach, to turn away his wrath, lest he should destroy them. Yea, they despised the pleasant land, they believed not his word: But murmured in their tents, and hearkened not unto the voice of the LORD.” (106:23-25).

The psalmist then points out the inevitable consequences of sin, but the Lord’s judgment on Israel was mingled with His inexhaustible mercy. “They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in. Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them. Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses. And he led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation.…..”Then they cry unto the LORD in their trouble, and he saveth them out of their distresses. He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions.“  (107:4-7, 19-20). Israel’s method of deliverance is the same for everyone today, He sent His Word, and healed them.

His Word is Jesus come in the flesh as well as His Written Word. “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” (John 1:1). His Written Word
when believed and acted upon, is the means God has chosen to supply and satisfy our every need.

Today Jesus Christ is revealed through the One who makes the storm a calm (Psalm 107:29). Jesus calms the storms of our lives and give us peace. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
You are our help in ages past and our hope for years to come!  How powerful and enduring Your Word is. It is living, relevant and active in the lives of believers all over the globe. It is more than print on a page, for the Word of God penetrates the heart; guiding, instructing, convicting, delighting, comforting and performing the supernatural work of God in our lives.  Increase our love and passion for reading Your Word faithfully so that we may grow in understanding and appreciation for all You have to show us. In Jesus’ name…..Amen.

Have a great day and week!
God Bless,
Christina

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Relief Through Forgiveness 07.13.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Sunday July 13, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Psalms. Please read Chapters 101-105 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%20101-105&version=9

Today we will read about a personal commitment to the Lord’s ways; a cry in distress; gratitude to God for His mercy; His mighty power; and God’s providence over Israel. Today’s message focuses on realizing that God forgives us and cleanses us of all our sins, but we must forgive ourselves and others if we are ever to see relief.

David was inspired by the Holy Spirit to prophesy of Jesus’ coming kingdom reign when He will administer equal justice for all the world. “I will sing of mercy and judgment: unto thee, O LORD, will I sing. I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person. ” (Psalm 101:1-4). David declared that he would walk with a perfect heart. To maintain this attitude, David chose his friends wisely.

A few of the many reasons for praising the Lord are given in Psalm 103, but it is our loving Lord Himself who is our highest reason for praise. First, we praise Him for who He is, the all-powerful, all-wise, righteous Creator, and then for His mercy and forgiving love in cleansing us from all our sins. “The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy. He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever. He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.” (103:8-11). To fear God does not mean that we are to be afraid of Him, it means to respect and be in awe of Him.

His forgiving love toward those who fear Him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. Therefore, it is an act of unbelief, a deception of Satan, and contrary to the nature of our loving Lord, to bring up former sins whether they be ours or those of others. Forgiven means no longer remembered, not only by God but by us as well. We are cleansed of our sins through the blood of Christ and once we repent and ask for forgiveness that sin is forgotten. It is us who keep brining it back up and causing so much unnecessary pain for ourselves. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” ( I John 1:9).

As you begin praying, always remember to forgive anyone you feel has wronged you. When you do that, your Father will forgive your evil deeds; but, if you do not forgive others, your Father will not forgive you or answer your prayers. We are reminded that unlimited forgiveness should characterize every true disciple of Christ, “Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.” (Mark 11:24-26).

As the One who forgives all your iniquities; who heals all your diseases (Psalm 103:3). Forgiveness of sin and the healing power of God describe the ministry of our Lord Jesus, who was sent not to be ministered to, but to minister and be ransom for many. “Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” (Matthew 20:28).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
We are reminded today that nothing happens to Your children apart from Your sovereign will. Since You use both good and evil to accomplish Your purpose in our lives we need not fear what others may say or do to us because Your Spirit abides with us and helps us to trust You no matter the present or future. Our lives are shielded and protected in Your loving hands. In Jesus’ name……Amen.

Have a great day!
God Bless,

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Our Guide 07.10.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday July 10, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Psalms. Please read Chapters 81-88 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2081-88&version=9

Today we will read and learn about God’s goodness and Israel’s waywardness; the blessedness of living in God’s presence; David’s desire to walk in truth, and a plea for God. Today we will learn the importance of realizing that one of the many things we learn as we worship God is to listen to the Holy Spirit as He guides us into all truth

Sometimes the unbelieving world looks down on the Christian who turns his back on the pleasures of this world. But to be a servant of the Most High God is better than all the pleasure of a rich man’s world. “My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God…..For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee.” (Psalm 84:2, 10-12).

Christians enjoy a peace with God that surpasses all understanding of what the world believes. Both David and the psalmist knew God would not permit them to miss out on, or be deprived of, His best and He would direct each step of life’s way.

The Holy Spirit guided David to unite the only two weapons of our spiritual warfare, prayer and the inspired Word of God. Psalm 86 expresses the power we have when these become our way of life. “Bow down thine ear, O LORD, hear me: for I am poor and needy. Preserve my soul; for I am holy: O thou my God, save thy servant that trusteth in thee. Be merciful unto me, O Lord: for I cry unto thee daily. Rejoice the soul of thy servant: for unto thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.” (86:1-4). David was the king of Israel he recognized the lordship of God over his life. He often spoke of himself as the servant of the Lord in the Psalms.

David continued to worship and confess God’s mercy and readiness to forgive. He expressed the utmost confidence that God listens to His people’s prayers and is able to deliver them from all harm regardless of our circumstances, he also asked God to teach him to obey Him. “Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name.……For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell……Shew me a token for good; that they which hate me may see it, and be ashamed: because thou, LORD, hast holpen me, and comforted me.” (86:11,13,17). 

The Christian who desires a closer relationship with the Lord does not depend upon previous learning to continue a day-by-day walk in the way of truth, but upon the continual daily guidance of God through His Word. Instruction is much more than just information; it is the means to understand His will and be obedient, it also includes the thought of correction. The child of God never graduates from the Spiritual school of instruction. That is why all of us need to read His Word each day.

A sincere commitment to the Lord is essential. The Apostle Peter recognized this when he encouraged us to do the will of God. “Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (II Peter 1:4-8). We have the potential to live in obedience to His Word, but it requires voluntary submission and it’s up to us to take the initiative to build our faith.

In today’s message Jesus Christ is revealed through Jerusalem, from where the psalmist declared all of the springs of joy and happiness emanate (Psalm 87:7). Jesus is the source of our joy as the angel announced at His birth (Luke 2:10).

Have a great day full of many blessings.
God Bless,
Christina

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Blessings Through Discouragement 07.09.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Wednesday July 9, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Psalms. Please read Chapters 78-80 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2078-80&version=9

Today we will read and learn about the Lord’s judgment against disobedience; a prayer against enemies; and prayer for mercy and restoration. Today’s message focuses on the importance of realizing that when times of discouragement come it is then when it is the best time to count our blessings and remember where the Lord brought us from.

God had chosen Israel to be His witness to the world. As His people, they were to be an example of how He would bless all who honor Him and His Word; but, they had failed miserably and the glorious City of God was destroyed. By great signs and miracles, He delivered Israel from cruel slavery in Egypt. Furthermore, His gracious dealings with His people were manifested daily throughout their forty years in the wilderness. Nevertheless, again and again their spirit of discontent prevailed, “Marvellous things did he in the sight of their fathers, in the land of Egypt, in the field of Zoan. He divided the sea, and caused them to pass through; and he made the waters to stand as an heap. In the daytime also he led them with a cloud, and all the night with a light of fire. He clave the rocks in the wilderness, and gave them drink as out of the great depths. He brought streams also out of the rock, and caused waters to run down like rivers. And they sinned yet more against him by provoking the most High in the wilderness.” (Psalms 78:12-17).

We are reminded of the pitiful heartbreak and awesome horror felt by the Israelites following the destruction of the Temple and Jerusalem. They had assumed that, since they were the chosen Covenant people of God, they were secure. But they had chosen to disobey God’s Covenant and His Commandments. The awful consequences of sin are inevitable. The psalmist cried out, “O god, the heathen are come into thine inheritance; thy holy temple have they defiled; they have laid Jerusalem on heaps. The dead bodies of thy servants have they given to be meat unto the fowls of the heaven, the flesh of thy saints unto the beasts of the earth. Their blood have they shed like water round about Jerusalem; and there was none to bury them.” (79:1-3).

Since the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, there has been no Temple, no Brazen Altar, no Laver, no Golden Candlestick, no Table of Showbread, no Ark of the Covenant, no Altar of Incense, and no scripturally observed Day of Atonement as commanded by God through Moses. All that was essential to cover their sins was destroyed at that time.

Israel’s sacrifices and feasts were symbols created by God to foreshadow all that was to be accomplished by Jesus the Messiah. With Jesus’ sacrificial death, all of the Old Testament sacrifices for sins were made obsolete and the old sacrificial system under the Law was destroyed. The sacrifice of Christ on the cross made it possible for both Jews and Gentiles, who recognize themselves as lost sinners, truly repent, and receive Jesus as their Savior, to be forgiven of their sins.

True, there are times when we are plagued by doubts and questions. This is the time to remember that after the Apostle Paul prayed three times for his thorn in his flesh to be removed, the Lord revealed to him a very precious truth, “And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.“ (II Corinthians 12:7-9).

Now there is the point that needs special emphasis. We need to realize that every Christian is the chosen of God and called out from among the world as lights through the darkness. As such, let us live our lives in childlike faith desiring above all else to please Him. God is longing for us to trust Him and look beyond our human resources to His all-sufficient supply. Our never failing God has promised to protect and keep us and we can rest in the promises of His Word. What is more, He always strengthens us for the work He has called us to do.

In today’s reading Jesus Christ is revealed through the true Shepherd (Psalm 80:1). Christ is the Good Shepherd and the Door through which one must enter to be saved. He alone is the Way to heaven (John 10:9,11).

Today’s Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Spiritual blessings come from You in the midst of Satan’s attacks and because of this essential truth we know that if You are for us, who can be against us! There is no formidable foe that cannot be conquered as the power of Your Holy Spirit enables us to remain faithful and ever growing in our devotion to You. Remind us that as we share in Your sufferings we also share in Your glory. In all areas of trouble, hardship, persecution, famine, and danger we are more than conquerors through You who loves us abundantly. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, nor anything else in all of Your creation will be able to separate us from Your love that has been revealed to us through Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ. We rejoice with our family of believers and we thank You for the paths of abundance You lay out before us as we walk hand in hand with You who helps us in all things. In Jesus’ name…..Amen.

Have a great and wonderful day!
God bless,
Christina

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