Saturday, December 31, 2011

THE BIRTH OF CHRIST- WHO IS JESUS?

John 15: 1, 2, 4, 5
I AM the vine, My Father is the vine dresser, every branch in me that beareth not fruit He taketh away; and He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit... abide in ME, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine, no more can ye, except ye abide in Me. I AM the vine, ye are the branches. He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit; for without me ye can do nothing.

JESUS IS THE VINE

JESUS says that we must "abide" in Him, in order to bear "much fruit". The word "abide" means to live or dwell in a place. JESUS invites us to come and dwell in HIM and He in us. He doesn't say "dwell with me", He says "abide (dwell) in Me, and I in you." He desires the most intimate relationship with us. He wants to be a part of every cell of our life: Body, Soul and Spirit. In this way, the branches of the vine (us) will bear much fruit, to the glory of GOD.

The fruit from the vine is for the nourishment of others. The more fruit that we bear, the more people are touched and saved by GOD. The fruit that they receive from us is nine-fold: love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, gentleness, meekness, faith, long-suffering (temperance). The person who manifests the fruit of the Spirit of GOD and the person who receives that fruit, all give glory to GOD.

THIS IS WHAT OUR LIFE IS ALL ABOUT, GIVING GLORY TO GOD
IN THIS NEW YEAR, MAY YOU BEAR MUCH FRUIT AND GLORIFY YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN.

Friday, December 30, 2011

THE BIRTH OF CHRIST- WHO IS JESUS?

John 3: 34-36
For He whom GOD hath sent speaketh the words of GOD; for GOD giveth not the Spirit by measure unto Him. The FATHER loveth the SON, and hath given all things into Him hand. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life; and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of GOD abideth on him.

JESUS IS GOD

I see in these verses, a statement of the Holy Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
The Father sends and gives to the Son all things; He sends and gives the Holy Spirit to the Son. THE SON IS JESUS. JESUS is life, He is the way and the truth. The path of eternal life is through JESUS. JESUS gives the Holy Spirit to us.

When does eternal life start? you might ask. Eternal life begins when you accept JESUS as your LORD and Savior. In His hand is eternal life and this is the light of man. We must walk through this life in the flesh, but we DO NOT WALK ALONE, JESUS walks with us.

When a person refuses to believe in JESUS, this insults GOD, because it was His love that sent JESUS into the world to save it. He gave His only beloved SON to us, so that we could live with Him. How do we say "thanks"? By giving our heart to JESUS.

Thursday, December 29, 2011

THE BIRTH OF CHRIST- WHO IS JESUS?

John 8: 12
I AM the light of the world; he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.

JESUS, THE TRUE LIGHT

In John 1: 3-5 we hear that JESUS IS THE LIGHT and "In Him was life; and the life was the light of men." We are shown elsewhere in Scripture that darkness; deep, thick, blackness, is what the world is without JESUS.

When we follow JESUS, not try to walk ahead of Him but follow Him, we are walking in the light and we can see the path that He is taking. This is very important, because we can not see ahead of us, so we stumble and fall in the darkness, JESUS IS WITH US, but we have chosen to go ahead of Him, impatiently, wandering in the unknown.

The fear of the unknown is conquered by faith in JESUS and to follow Him faithfully. In Psalm 119 we find these words, "Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path
."

JESUS IS THAT TRUE LIGHT, follow Him.

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

THE BIRTH OF CHRIST- WHO IS JESUS?

John 10:10b, 11
I AM come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I AM the Good Shepherd, the good shepherd gives his life for the sheep.

JESUS, IS THE GOOD SHEPHERD

The birth is JESUS was the earthly manifestation of the I AM. JESUS IS GOD INCARNATE, MAN DIVINE. This plan of GOD was in His mind before the heavens and the earth were made. Now, in the fullness of time, JESUS is born.

JESUS laid down His life when He entered into the womb of Mary. He left His home in glory to become a child, born of a woman; 33 years later, He would lay down His life on a cruel cross. There were many other times that JESUS "laid down" His life for His sheep. He was humble and meek, not proud and showy; He loved deeply those who were sin-sick and healed them, He didn't pass them by; He showed abundant mercy and compassion, not judgment and condemnation; He forgave His enemies; He withheld His power to dominate and destroy. All this and much more were signs of JESUS, "giving His life for the sheep".

JESUS is calling us to walk as He walked, giving our life for the salvation of souls, though acts of mercy and compassion, forgiveness, humility and meekness.

WHO IS JESUS? THE GOOD SHEPHERD WHO LOVES YOU.

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

THE BIRTH OF CHRIST- WHO IS JESUS?

Psalm 8: 1, 4, 5
O LORD, our LORD, how excellent is Thy Name in all the earth, who hast set Thy glory above the heavens!
What is man, that Thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that Thou visitest him? For Thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honor.

WHO IS JESUS? HE IS THE LORD.

What a wonderful gift from the Father GOD to us, that He would send His Son to reconcile us to Himself. I stand in awe, as I write these words, that GOD considers us worthy of His great love. We have done nothing to deserve such love, nothing we can ever do could make us fit and worthy. JESUS, alone, was righteous and worthy to be crowned with glory and honor.

When we are found in JESUS, reborn by the Blood of the righteous One, HE RECONCILES US TO GOD. This gift from the Father, JESUS THE RIGHTEOUS ONE, brought lowly, sin-sick man, into unity with GOD.

II Corinthians 5:21 says: "For He hath made Him, who knew no sin, to be sin for us, that we might be made the righteous of GOD in Him."

BE BORN AGAIN AND BE MADE WHOLE

Monday, December 26, 2011

THE BIRTH OF CHRIST- WHO IS JESUS?

WHO DO YOU SAY THAT I AM?
Matthew 16: 15, 16
He saith unto them, But who say ye that I AM?
And Simon Peter answered and said, "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living GOD."


WHO DO YOU SAY THAT JESUS IS TO YOU?

This is the most important question that you must answer today. The celebration of Christmas has come and a new day is dawning on the earth. People will be taking down the decorations and the place cleaned up for the New Year parties. Hanging in the air is a question for each individual to answer to GOD; "Who do you say that JESUS is to you?

Peter answered this way,"Thou art the Christ, the Son of the Living GOD." Some will answer, "You are my Redeemer, deliverer, healer, source, Light, leader, King, and LORD." or "Counselor, Mighty GOD, Everlasting Father and Prince of Peace." or "You are everything good in my life, you are JESUS, spouse, my friend, my everything."

We must all answer this question for ourselves. Who is He in your life?
Then live what you confess.


Saturday, December 24, 2011

GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST

Luke 2: 15
And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, "Let us go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the LORD hath made known unto us."

COME AND SEE

I am struck by the words, "come...and see". This is the EVE OF CHRISTMAS, come and see JESUS; HE is here, come and see JESUS; HE is Emmanuel,GOD with us, come and see JESUS; HE is in your heart, come and see JESUS.

There is a Temple, not made with human hands, within our heart, there we can worship JESUS 24/7. In the Temple in our heart we can sing HIS praises with the angels and glorify GOD with the highest glory. Here, we can "come and see JESUS" we can sit at HIS feet and live in HIS presence.

HE IS CALLING EACH OF US TO "COME AND SEE."

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE LIVING FAITH CHRISTIAN CHURCH FAMILY

Friday, December 23, 2011

WISE MEN/WOMEN - reactions to JESUS

Matthew 2: 4, 5
And when he had gathered all the chief Priests and Scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where the Christ should be born. And they said unto him, 'In Bethlehem of Judea; for thus it is written by the Prophets.'

REACTION OF INDIFFERENCE

The Priests of the people were learned men. They had a high position in the society of the people, because they were seen as the peoples link to GOD. When asked about where the CHRIST was born, they only quoted the Scripture about the Christ, they didn't go and see JESUS.

The Priests were preoccupied with their duties and the position that they held in society so they gave an answer to the questions asked and then, moved on to their business.

This kind of indifference is seen today in the intellectual community. They say that they know JESUS, but their heart is far from Him. They are "lukewarm". The Revelation 3: 15, 16 says " I know Thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot; I would thou were cold or hot. So then, because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth."

The answer to this is to repent from the heart and be zealous for the LORD.

COME AND SEE THE PLACE WHERE JESUS IS AND BOW DOWN AND WORSHIP HIM

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

WISE MEN/WOMEN - reactions to JESUS

Matthew 2: 10
When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy.

THREE REACTIONS TO JESUS-THEN AND NOW

The wise men rejoiced over JESUS by anticipation of seeing the KING; by faithfully following the star; by seeking HIS presence; by falling down and worshiping Him; and by giving gifts to honor Him. They rejoiced with great joy.

The reaction of believers in JESUS follow the same path. They are driven on their quest by the strong desire to see JESUS and to love Him. They and we rejoice with great joy.

There are two other reactions to the birth of JESUS-then and now, but for now let us focus on the devotion of the wise men as they inspire us to diligently seek the Christ, THE MESSIAH, THE REDEEMER, OUR KING.

WISE MEN/WOMEN-THE GIFTS

Matthew 2: 11
And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary, His mother, and they fell down, and worshiped Him; and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts; gold, frankincense and myrrh.

THE GIFTS
"What shall I give Him, poor as I am...what I can I give Him, give my heart."

This season of giving gifts has taken on a meaning that is far away from the giving of the gifts of the wise men. They came from a very great distance in search of the KING of the JEWS, JESUS; when they found Him, they fell down to worship Him. They worshiped the One whom they knew to be the MESSIAH, KING, EMMANUEL, AND LORD.

The wise men gave treasures to JESUS. Treasures are not just "store bought" trinkets, the are items of great value and speak of great meaning. The gold signifies the Deity, Royalty, Kingship and authority of JESUS; Frankincense was used on the Brazen Altar for a sweet smell in the smoke that arose to GOD, this symbolizes the Priestly position of JESUS as mediator between GOD and man; Myrrh, signifies he death JESUS would die for the redemption of man.

There is more to be found in the acts of the wise men, they "fell down and worshiped". In the Revelation 4: 10,11, we see the "four and twenty elders fall down before Him that sits on the Throne and worshiped Him that liveth for ever and ever." This is the response to the Presence of the Holy One. Then, they ' cast their crowns before the Throne saying 'Thou art worthy O LORD, to receive glory, and honor and power." The most powerful and honored men on earth, wise men and 24 elders "cast their crowns" at the feet of the ONE who is worthy
JESUS CHRIST THE LORD.

This day, let us follow the wise men and the 24 elders, giving to JESUS the only gift we can give,
OUR HEART TO HIM. HE ALONE IS WORTHY.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

WISE MEN/WOMEN-THE JOURNEY

Matthew 2: 1, 2
Now when JESUS was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod, the king, behold, there came wise men from the East to JERUSALEM, saying,"Where is He that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen His Star in the east, and are come to worship Him."

THE WISE JOURNEY

Yesterday, I wrote about who is a wise man/woman. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; the rest of the story is found in the journey.

The wise men had one focus, their eyes looked at the NATAL Star of the KING, JESUS. When we start on our journey of Holy Wisdom, we begin with our heart-eye focused on JESUS. We are led on our journey by the Shekinah glory of GOD, shining in our heart-sky. The travel is long and hard, but our heart is fixed on JESUS as we are led by His HOLY SPIRIT.

The intent of our journey is to SEE JESUS and to worship Him. We bring with us all that we are, all that we have and all that we ever shall be. We present ourselves a living sacrifice, which is Holy and acceptable unto GOD; OUR REASONABLE SERVICE.

COME, ALL YE FAITHFUL, TO WORSHIP CHRIST THE LORD

Monday, December 19, 2011

WISE MEN/WOMEN

Matthew 2: 1-12

WHO IS WISE?

We all are fascinated by the image of those wise men in our Nativity Scenes, riding on their camels, toward the manger where JESUS rests in the arms of HIS Mother. The fact is, that JESUS was about 2 years old when the wise men came to present their gifts to Him. I find that the fact that they came so far in search of JESUS to be the key to this story.

Who is wise? Those who fear the LORD and search diligently to find HIM. We, too, have seen His NATAL STAR, that light of the glory of GOD, shining in the dark sky, leading us to the place where JESUS is to be found. Wise men/women follow that Shekinah Glory just like the children of Israel followed the fire by night and the cloud by day. The HOLY SPIRIT leads us to JESUS, that is HIS job. The finest gift we can bring to JESUS is our life as a living sacrifice, which is Holy and acceptable unto HIM.

O COME, LET US ADORE HIM, CHRIST THE LORD

Saturday, December 17, 2011

WHY JESUS CAME

I John 3: 11
For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.

ONLY LOVE, THIS IS THE MESSAGE FROM ABOVE

Why did JESUS leave glory to come to earth? Yes, it was to save sinners; to give abundant life to man; to heal and deliver man from bondage and death; to destroy the work of the devil. ALL these things are right and true. This is why JESUS came to live among His creation, He IS the creator.

What motivated Creator GOD to do all this? The driving force behind all the actions of JESUS is PROFOUND LOVE. Only love, Holy Love, was and is the motive of the actions of GOD.

We see the result of the motives, but from the beginning, before time and substance, the LOVE OF GOD breathed life and light into the void of the Universe, the preparation for the manifestation on THE SON OF GOD.

JESUS IS LOVE INCARNATE

Friday, December 16, 2011

WHY JESUS CAME

I John 3-8b
For this purpose the Son of GOD was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil.

JESUS came to set the captives free and to break every yoke.

There are many people walking about with various addictions; drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are only three. TV, video games, computer, Face-book, Texting and Soap Operas are others. If we think about it, we can name many others that we are drawn to as if they had power over us. Well, the truth is they do have power over us by our permission. We are captives by our own choice.

JESUS CAME TO SET THE CAPTIVES FREE

The most important choice that we must make has eternal implications; do you choose the way of the LORD, WHICH LEADS TO FREEDOM, or do you choose the way of the devil, which leads to darkness, bondage and death. When I chose to live in JESUS, all addictions fell away, like old rags, the prison doors opened and I was free; free to love, free to serve, free to live the abundant life.

JESUS CAME TO DESTROY THE WORK OF DARKNESS

Thursday, December 15, 2011

WHY JESUS CAME

JOHN 1-1, 12,13,14
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with GOD, and the Word was GOD.
As many as received Him, to them gave He power to the children of GOD, even to them that believe on His Name; who were born, not blood, nor the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of GOD. And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.

JESUS CAME TO HEAL AND DELIVER
I
n the first verse, there are three statements about JESUS: His existence,He is the Eternal Word of GOD, the I AM; His position, He is with GOD; His Deity, He was GOD. JESUS DESTROYED THE WORK OF SATAN AND THE DARK WORLD THAT HE CREATED; JESUS HEALED MANKIND FROM THE GRIP OF SIN AND DEATH; HE RESTORED OUR LIFE. The will of the flesh, human desire, nor human sacrifices could atone for us, but through JESUS we have all things restored. Through JESUS, we have become the children of GOD and joint heirs with Christ.

BELIEVE ON THE LORD JESUS CHRIST AND YOU WILL BE SAVED, HEALED AND DELIVERED.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

WHY JESUS CAME

JOHN 10-10b
I AM come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

JESUS came that we might have abundant life through Him. JESUS brought glory to man by leaving His home in glory and opening the path of life to all who believe in Him. JESUS did this willingly and out of His great love. His life made the way for us to follow Him into glory and to receive the abundant life here on earth.

RECEIVE JESUS AND THE ABUNDANT LIFE IS YOURS

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

WHY JESUS CAME

John 12:46, 47
I AM come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth in Me should not abide in darkness. And if any man hear My words, and believe not, I judge him not; for I came, not to judge the world but to save the world.

"For GOD sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world, through Him might be saved" (John 3: 17). JESUS came to bring life and light into the world; death and darkness did not come from Him. The I AM, the name of GOD, came to man in order for the world to be transformed from darkness into light, sadness into joy, hurt and harm into healing. GOD has a perfect plan for the salvation of man and that plan is JESUS. BELIEVE ON THE LORD JESUS CHRIST AND YOU SHALL BE SAVED, YOU AND YOUR HOUSEHOLD.

The LORD did not come into the world to judge it and condemn it. The judgment and the condemnation comes from the result of sin and darkness. There are many souls that refuse to hear the word of GOD and rebel against the Love of GOD for them, the result of this choice is pain, darkened mind, a heart of stone and a hopeless existence. JESUS, the great I AM came to turn all the hopelessness of dark humanity into the glorious hope and light of Eternal Love.

I AM, THE ETERNAL WORD, CAME DOWN AT CHRISTMAS TO CHANGE THE WORLD THROUGH LOVE.

Monday, December 12, 2011

WHY JESUS CAME

Matthew 18: 11,14
For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost...Even so it is not the will of your Father, who is in heaven,that one of these little ones should perish.

JESUS CAME TO SAVE

The most important reason that JESUS came to earth was to seek and to save that which was lost. He willingly left Glory to live and die among us, so that we, through Him, might be saved. It is the will of the Father that not one perish, so He gave his only begotten Son to redeem the world.

The Love, Word and Will of GOD came to earth as a little child, so that all who come to Him will be restored to the perfect image that GOD saw when He created the earth. We were made in the likeness and image of GOD, that image was marred by the blight of sin, when we are born again by the Blood of JESUS, we are restored to that perfect image and saved.

The grace of GOD is not cheap, because it cost GOD greatly, BUT IT IS FREE to all who come to Him. All we have to do is take the Hand of the Man JESUS and come as a little child to feel the beat to that Sacred Heart and be saved.

COME, ALL YOU WHO ARE THIRSTY; COME TO JESUS AND BE SAVED

WHY JESUS CAME

Matthew 18: 11, 14
For the Son of Man is come to save that which was lost.

This is part of the reason JESUS came to earth, leaving His heavenly home in glory to become a little child and to walk among mankind and to die at the hand of sinful man. JESUS CAME TO SAVE SINNERS OF WHOM I AM CHIEF, Paul said. JESUS so loved the world that He chose to leave glory to become His own creation. He chose to live and die as one of us, so that we might be able to live with Him forever.

The original plan of GOD was that man would be made in His image and likeness and the world would be pure and good. Sin entered into that pure Eden and humankind was lost forever, UNTIL THE COMING OF JESUS. He came to redeem the world and every person in it.

The Grace of GOD is not cheap, it cost GOD great pain and hurt; BUT Grace is free to all who come to JESUS. There is Grace and mercy in the

Saturday, December 10, 2011

PLANS FROM GOD FOR YOU

Jeremiah 29: 11-14a
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. and ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. And I will be found by you, saith the LORD; and I will turn away your captivity...

COME AS A CHILD AND BELIEVE

These words from the LORD should increase your faith a thousand fold as you read them. The LORD has a thought about YOU; a plan for YOU that is of peace and not of evil; to give to YOU an expected end.

What is that "expected end"? Salvation, Redemption, healing, restoration, wholeness, deliverance and united with GOD for all Eternity. All this was made possible by the shed Blood of JESUS; His willing sacrifice for you on the Cross. This was made possible for YOU by JESUS leaving the Throne in Heaven to become a mortal man, to live as a mortal and die as a human so that the sacrifice would be total and the resurrection total and the Ascension total and for ALL people who believe on His Name. This is GOD'S plan for YOU. Beloved, please don't say, "but" and then give a laundry list of exceptions. JESUS paid it all for YOU and all you have to do is accept Him and be raised to newness of life, IN THE NAME OF JESUS.

GOD HAS A THOUGHT ABOUT YOU AND A PLAN, EMBRACE HIS WAY AND HIS PLAN AND YOU WILL HAVE PEACE WITH GOD.


Friday, December 9, 2011

COME AS A CHILD

Ephesians 5:8, 9
For ye were once darkness, but now are ye light in the LORD; walk as children of light. For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth.

THE CHILDREN OF LIGHT

Think about children: they are helpless without their parents to provide for them; they are weak and need guidance to live; they are unable to plan and prepare for their future; they are dependent on, and observant of the actions of their elders. So it is with the Children of GOD.

We are helpless without the help of JESUS, who is our provision; we are weak without JESUS who is our strength; we are unable to walk with out the Light of Christ guiding our steps; we can not plan or prepare, because we can not see the future, but JESUS can and does; we are dependent on JESUS and when we observe Him and study Him we know how to act in this world.

JESUS is the Light of the world, we are lanterns of that Light. Keep your lanterns clean and burning; washed with the water of the Word of GOD and filled with the oil of the Holy Spirit. Walk in the Light of the LORD and be filled with the Light of JESUS.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

COME AS A CHILD

Philippians 2: 13, 15
For it is GOD who worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure...
That ye may be blameless and harmless children of GOD, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.

SHINING LIGHTS

We are to shine as lights in the world and it is GOD who works in us to want to and to be able to do what He wants. If this devotional, this morning, stopped there and said, "reflect on this", it would be enough for a life time of reflection. Just think about it; the GOD who created all things in heaven and in the earth, created you and all that you see, sent His Son to redeem you and all humanity from death by His Blood, works in you to will and do what pleases Him. He has done it all for you, all you have to do is follow Him.

We can not please GOD or do the work that makes Him rejoice, on our own hook; it is GOD who gives us the will and the way to make Him rejoice. Do you have a thought about how to bring people warmth on a cold day; how to feed the hungry in your neighborhood; call a friend and just give them the warmth of your friendship; take a plant to a grieving neighbor who just had to put her dog down, because the dog was sick and old. These thoughts and the thoughts about new ways to cure Cancer and help people to live, who have no kidneys, through the gift of Dialysis; these thoughts come from GOD, designed for the good of His Children. These are Holy Gifts from the Divine source for the health and well being of humanity.

We are light in this world, dispelling the darkness and despair of a world without hope. People are walking in darkness and we are the lanterns of the Light of Christ breaking the darkness and bringing hope. We are the Light of warmth in the cold night of lives. We are the Light that brings growth to the soul that feels "stuck in the rut". We are the healing light of GOD, touching sick souls and raising them up to the path of wholeness. Yes, we are the lanterns of GOD, filled with His Light and the oil of the Holy Spirit. Keep your lanterns bright with the Holy Light; the world is in great need of the way to walk.

JESUS IS THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE. JESUS IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

COME AS A CHILD

John 1: 1-5
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with GOD, and the Word was GOD. The same was in the beginning with GOD. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made. In Him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness overcame it not.

LIFE AND LIGHT

JESUS is the Life and the Light; He was at the beginning and He is so, right now, today, in our world. We are light-bearers and the darkness can not overcome us if we are drawing our light from JESUS.

Yes, the world is filled with darkness, the mind of man is filled with the muck and mire of endless gloom and death.; yet they refuse to empty themselves of this muck and come to JESUS for Life and Light. Schools are refusing to have prayer, books are being re-written so that JESUS is removed. What to do? we cry; What to do?

Turn your part of the world into Light, embrace JESUS as a child embraces his father; follow JESUS into the glorious light of resurrected life and shine brightly in this world. Give to the poor; heal the sick; cleanse the leper and open the prison doors to those who are bound by addiction and trouble; do all in the Name of JESUS. Spend your time in prayer and deep intercession for this world. COME AS A CHILD COMES TO THE FATHER, humble, meek, asking, needy; crawl up on His lap and trust Him to bring light to the darkness.

EMBRACE THE LIGHT LIKE A CHILD EMBRACES THE ONE WHOM HE TRUSTS.

Tuesday, December 6, 2011

COME AS A CHILD

Luke 18: 16,17
Permit the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the Kingdom of GOD. Verily I say unto you, "whosoever shall not receive the Kingdom of GOD like a little child shall in no way enter it."

Yesterday, we talked about the darkness in this world and that the Light of Christ has come into the world to dispel that darkness. Today, we will explore the way to live in the Light.

The world of darkness is inhabited by those who do not want to live in the light. They are comfortable with the struggles to see in darkness. They are like the little creatures who live in the darkest parts of caves and never see the light; they are pale, and blind, groping around their dark dwelling, hoping to find what they need for life.

In human terms, living in darkness is trying to find the way, the truth and the life without JESUS, who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Many folk think that their intellect, education and experience will make the way possible for them to succeed. They grope around their dwellings, trying to find what they need for life, but they are blind, without a guide.

The people who embrace the light of Christ, are those who seek, ask and knock for JESUS. They are the ones who acknowledge that He is the LORD; they determine to follow Him without question. They place their hand in the Hand of JESUS and let Him lead. Those who seek the Light of Christ submit to the Gospel as a child submits to the teaching of a parent. When one is submitted to JESUS, they are filled with light and JESUS, the Good Shepherd, leads them to springs of Living Water and good pasture.

COME AS A CHILD TO THE LIGHT OF JESUS CHRIST AND HIS KINGDOM OF LIGHT

Monday, December 5, 2011

COME AS A CHILD

Isaiah 9: 2, 6
The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light, they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined...
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government shall be upon His shoulder; and His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty GOD, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

THE LIGHT OF CHRIST HAS COME INTO THE WORLD

If you read the Newspaper or watch TV or listen to the radio you will know the great darkness that we are living in right now. Look around at the people in line to receive a food basket and you will know that we are living in a dark time. Talk to your friends about how they feel about the world and they will acknowledge that it is a bleak time. Darkness is covering the world; the people are walking in darkness and dwelling in the shadow of death. WHERE IS THE LIGHT? THEY CRY.
The LORD JESUS has come into the world to save the world from the darkness and the shadow of death. He broke down the dividing wall between us and Him, we are able to live in the light. Believe on the LORD JESUS Christ and you will be saved from this awful darkness. JESUS defeated death and the grave; by his Blood he reconciled us to GOD.

THE LIGHT HAS COME INTO THE WORLD, BELIEVE HIM TOTALLY AND THE LIGHT WILL SHINE IN YOU.

Saturday, December 3, 2011

CIRCLE OF BLESSINGS

II Corinthians 9: 13-15
While by the proving of this ministration they glorify GOD for your professed subjection unto the Gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men, and by their prayer for you, who long after you for the exceeding grace of GOD in you. Thanks be unto GOD for His unspeakable gift.

The circle is complete, the recipient of the goodness of GOD, glorifies GOD; the distributor of GOD'S gifts, glorifies GOD; GOD is pleased and blesses both the giver and the receiver. There is more, to whom belongs the glory?

It is very normal for us to thank the person, who is the giver of the gifts of GOD and praise them for their devotion to Him and the Gospel of Christ. Many people extol the human hands and feet of JESUS and stop there. The truth is, that every good gift and every perfect gift is from above and comes to us from the Father of lights in whom there is no variableness neither shadow of turning (James 1:17).

The strongest words of these verses are in the last verse, verse 15, thanks be unto GOD for His unspeakable gift. The gift of his only begotten Son, JESUS to atone for our sins, breaking down the dividing wall between us and GOD and reconciling us to GOD. We are only earthen vessels, that the excellence and the power be of GOD and not of ourselves. We have nothing without the blessing and goodness of GOD.

JESUS IS THE ETERNAL GREAT GIFT TO US ALL, BELIEVE IN HIM AND GLORIFY HIM.

Friday, December 2, 2011

CIRCLE OF BLESSINGS

II Corinthians 9: 11
Being enriched in everything to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to GOD.

I must apologize to you for the absence of a posting on the blog for yesterday. The internet and the DSL were down for the whole day and I couldn't post on my computer. Please forgive a missed day.

Today, we will focus on those words from II Corinthians, "causeth through us". I love words because they paint pictures in my mind. The picture that I get is a "cause and effect" picture. I see a person handing a gift to another and the other smiling and thanking the giver with great rejoicing. As I look deeper into the picture, I see that the giver is really JESUS, giving a gift through another to a person. The smile and the rejoicing is the outpouring of thanksgiving to GOD, who then, gives more gifts to be spread out to more people; AND THERE IS MORE THANKSGIVING TO GOD.

This picture forms a circle. The person gives to the recipient a gift, the recipient and the giver give glory to GOD who then gives more gifts to be given away so more thanksgiving is given and more gifts abound.

Blessings come in a circle, also. The giving person, blesses the recipient and both bless GOD. GOD gives blessings to them both and they give blessings to others, who bless GOD and He blesses.

LET US BE A PART OF THE CIRCLE OF BLESSING, CAUSING THE EFFECT OF MORE BLESSINGS TO GOD

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

CIRCLE OF BLESSINGS

II Corinthians 9:12
For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto GOD.

THE BLESSING OF GOD

When we hear the phrase "blessing of GOD" we often think that it is GOD who blesses us. In this verse, we see another phase of blessing; the blessing given to GOD. Have you ever thought that the good that you do blesses GOD? Have you ever thought that the good things done in the name of the LORD causes others to bless GOD? Re-read the verse from II Corinthians; not only does our service supply the need of the poor, but many thanksgiving are given to GOD.

In my heart I want to give great thanks and blessing to to GOD for all that He has done for me. I want to bow down before Him, to honor and adore Him, and I want to inspire others to do the same thing. It is through service to others in the Name of the LORD, that others are brought to the place that they will glorify GOD for His great love for them.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY, THE BLESSINGS AND THE HONOR DUE HIS NAME

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

CIRCLE OF BLESSINGS

II Corinthians 9:9 (NIV)
As it is written: "He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever."

Yesterday we discussed the "bountiful eye", those who look and find ways to give to the poor and those in need; people who will be blessed because they gave. Today we will talk about "scattering abroad".

There is a woman in our Church who gives clothing and food every Sunday, after every Service, on Monday at another Church and on Saturday to the people in the homeless camps. She gives out what she receives from others and there is no limit to the giving. People do not have to qualify for food or clothing; no paper work, no hoops to go through to get help; she just gives. She has a garage full of clothing, if there is a need for a sweater, call her and she will provide. This woman will not stop, day or night, giving and giving to anyone who is in need. When she goes to the store, she looks for men/women/children who are asking for help, she gives what she has to them. Her car is filled with clothing to give, all sorted by size and all appropriate for the season.

SHE SCATTERS ABROAD IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS. Her card reads: "Helping Hands Ministry"; she stands on the word, "Whatsoever you do to the least of my brothers, that you do unto me."

This is an example of how we are to "scatter abroad" with a "bountiful eye"; unconditionally and with the Love of the LORD JESUS. May we all follow this example of a holy woman who does not count the cost, just gives.

Monday, November 28, 2011

CIRCLE OF BLESSINGS

Proverbs 22:9
He that hath a bountiful eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.

This week, we will talk about the circle of blessings from GOD and how it is a continuous circle; never ending, always blessing. The first part of this circle is the blessing upon the poor, those who receive from those who have a "bountiful eye".

What is a "bountiful eye", it is the eye of the heart that seeks ways to give to others. The bountiful eye is always watching for a need and always looking for ways to meet that need. They look around their house for ways to bless others; they look in the stores for things to bless others; they search out things to make, to bless another. The eye of the giver seeks ways to give.

The blessing comes when the recipient gives thanks for the relief of their need. When the bountiful eye giver, gives unto the LORD, the recipient gives thanks to GOD and the hands that gave to them. Therefore, GOD is glorified and the giver is blessed.

TODAY, BE A BOUNTIFUL EYE, SEEKING WHOM YOU MIGHT SERVE IN JESUS NAME.

Saturday, November 26, 2011

ACT OF COMMUNION

Matthew 26: 26-28
And as they were eating, JESUS took bread, and bless it, and broke it, and gave it to the disciples and said, "Take, eat; this is my body, " and He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying,"Drink ye all of it; for this is my Blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins."

FAITH ALWAYS SAYS, THANK YOU JESUS.

It is by faith that we say, "thank you JESUS for all that you have done for us"; it is by faith that we eat the bread and drink the cup, recognizing the Body and Blood of JESUS; it is by faith that we accept that our sins have been thrown as far as the east is from the west and we are clean.

FAITH ALWAYS SAYS, THANK YOU JESUS.


The Blood of Jesus reconciles us to GOD, "thank you JESUS".
The Body of JESUS unites us into one Body, with JESUS as the head, "thank you, JESUS".
The wounds of JESUS heals our wounds, for by His stripes we are healed; "thank you, JESUS". JESUS paid the price for our redemption from the prison house of sin, "thank you, JESUS". JESUS is coming again for us, His Bride, to take us home to live with Him, "thank you, JESUS".


THANK YOU JESUS, FOR ALL THAT YOU HAVE DONE FOR US

Friday, November 25, 2011

A FLAME OF LOVE

Colossians 2:6,7
As ye have, therefore, received Christ JESUS the LORD, so walk ye in Him, rooted and built up in Him, and established in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding with thanksgiving.

I received this gift from a friend and thought that I would pass it on to you.
We are a flame of love in this world, brightening up the corners of the hearts of people; giving them light to see through the darkness, to the glorious light of the LORD. We are like little candles of hope, lighting the path for others to see. We are like a touch of warmth in a cold world, giving others the tender touch of JESUS in the heart. BE THE FLAME OF LOVE, BROTHERS AND SISTERS IN CHRIST.

A Flame of Thanks

My Card.JPGIn the literature of the desert Fathers and Mothers there is the story about the monastic who goes to the greatest of all the Mothers and says, “To the best of my ability, I pray,

I fast; I keep my little rule, what more should I do?” And the wise woman answers,

“If you will, you can become all flame!”

On this gray, cold day in late November becoming “all flame” does have a certain appeal and I wonder what she meant and how one could do that? Upon further reflection, I realize that I have known people who certainly seem on fire with a love for life. They radiate warmth in their smiles, in their words, and in their generous kindness that flows over everyone around them. These people can make a cold room warm and a dark space bright by their presence, by the flame within and around them.

What is it that transforms these folks into living flames, into people on fire with a love for life and others? I believe these are the ones who have discovered and embraced the great secret of gratitude. For them, everyone and everything is sheer gift. They take no one and nothing for granted. Their laughter and their love can turn a simple meal into a feast because they view life as filled with abundance and beauty and are always eager to share. They live with a grateful heart that finds reason to rejoice and give thanks at all times and in all places.

This Thanksgiving Season I want to tell you that you are for me a living flame of love and gratitude. I am so grateful that you are in my life. Together let us kindle the fire of gratitude, spread the warmth of love, and create pockets of peace that make us one family, one nation, one universal community of brothers and sisters.

Have a glorious Thanksgiving!

With much love,

Evelyn



Thursday, November 24, 2011

HAPPY DAY OF THANKSGIVING

MAY YOU ALL BE GREATLY BLESSED BY THE LORD

Psalm 35: 18, 28
I will give thanks in the great congregation; I will praise thee among many people.
And my tongue shall speak of Thy righteousness and of Thy praise all the day long.

THE DAY OF REMEMBRANCE

I will bless the LORD at all times, his praise shall continually be in my mouth. At all times will I give thanks to the LORD, for He is good, His mercy is everlasting, and his truth endureth forever and ever. The LORD is my Rock and my salvation; whom then shall I fear? The LORD is my strength and my song, of whom then shall I be afraid?

As I write this blog to you, today, I am filled with the great joy of the LORD for all that He has done for all of us. The best way for me to express my joy to you and for you is to quote Scripture. When you read this, begin to praise the LORD in your own way; thanking Him for His great mercy, loving-kindness, goodness, generosity and LOVE in the redemption of the world by our LORD JESUS Christ. Be glad all of the time, rejoicing in the LORD for He is good to us.

Let all the people we touch everyday, know that the LORD GOD loves us and He loves them with an unconditional, and unfailing love. Let us all rejoice, together, in the LORD and bring the hurting, dying, troubled souls to Christ, so that they, too, will join the great congregation, singing and blessing the LORD.

MAY YOUR DAY OF THANKSGIVING BE FILLED WITH OVERWHELMING JOY AND MAY PROSPERITY BE REALIZED IN YOUR LIFE.

LIVING FAITH CHRISTIAN CENTER PRAYS GREAT BLESSINGS UPON YOU AND ALL YOUR FAMILY. PEACE BE UNTO TO YOU FROM ALL OF US, IN THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS, AMEN AND AMEN


Tuesday, November 22, 2011

THANKSGIIVING AND PRAISE

Hebrews 13:15,16
By Him, therefore, let us offer the sacrifice of praise to GOD continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name. But to do good and to share forget not; for with such sacrifices GOD is well pleased.

We are a Kingdom of Priests, serving GOD continually with sacrifices that please Him. These sacrifices are not bulls and goats like the ancient sacrifices, but thanksgiving and praise of the One who gave His life for us all. JESUS is the perfect sacrifice for all sin and His blood paid the debt for us. We had a debt that we could not pay; He paid the debt He didn't owe. JESUS broke down the wall of separation between us and Him, so that we could come to Him boldly and with great joy.

What can we do to say "thank you, LORD" for all the He has done? We can do good and share with others, reaching out our hands in love to a hurting world, being ready to be broken bread and poured out wine for the life of another.

Thanksgiving should resound from our lips and in our heart without stopping even for a breath. It is the LORD who has given to us the breath, in order to praise Him. We are stewards of that breath, using it wisely as we glorify Him continually.

THANKSGIIVING AND PRAISE

Psalm 100
Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness and come before His presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD, He is GOD; it is He who hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise; be thankful unto Him, and bless His name. For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endureth to all generations.

I WAS GLAD WHEN THEY SAID UNTO ME, "LET US GO INTO THE HOUSE OF THE LORD".

"It is He who hath made us, and not we ourselves", we live because He has called us into being; we live Eternally, because He lives; we breathe, because He gives us breath. All things come from GOD; nothing exists without the LORD calling it into being. Great thanksgiving should rise from our hearts to GOD, because He is the source of all things good.

Make a joy-filled song of praise and thanksgiving as we enter into the presence of the LORD. Fall at His feet with gratitude for ALL that He has done for us. "Great is the LORD and greatly to be praised", glorify Him and bless His name forever, for He is worthy. The LORD is good; the LORD is merciful; the LORD is all truth; the LORD is high and lifted up, yet reaches to the lowest of the lowly with great compassion. The LORD gave His highest and His best for the redemption of the world. He paid the price for our sin and brought us into His presence by breaking down the wall between us and Him. "By His Blood He reconciled us and by His wounds we are healed".

"Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise" be deeply thankful from your heart, for the LORD has done great things for us and Holy is His Name.

I call all of us to wrap ourselves in the songs of praise today. Make a joyful noise unto the LORD and bless His name. Sing to Him from a heart filled with thanks for all that He has done. Make today the first day of your new life of praise, glorify the LORD all the days of your life and dwell in His house with thanksgiving.

ALL GLORY BE TO GOD ON HIGH AND PEACE TO HIS PEOPLE ON EARTH

Monday, November 21, 2011

THANKSGIIVING AND PRAISE

THE THANKFUL HEART WORSHIPS
Hebrews 12:28 (NIV)
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and worship GOD acceptably with reverence and awe, for our "GOD is a consuming fire".

" No matter what happens here, our future is built on a solid foundation that cannot be destroyed. Don't put your confidence in what will be destroyed; instead build your life on Christ and His unshakable kingdom." ( Life application Bible commentary, pg. 2659). Be thankful, my dear friends, for the Kingdom of GOD is at hand, it is in the presence and reality of JESUS. When we receive JESUS as our LORD and savior, we enter into His Kingdom; a Kingdom that is not made with hands, but whose maker and builder is GOD.

We are the KIDS OF THE KINGDOM, let us be eternally thankful for this fact. Worship and praise are inseparable twins, that manifest themselves when a heart is thankful. The acceptable worship of GOD is with "reverence and awe" and with thanksgiving. The heart that worships GOD for who He is; falling on our knees before Him in our heart, overwhelmed by the greatness of His love for us, this heart will be consumed by the fire of His great love. This is a sacrifice that is well pleasing to GOD. The result of this act of worship, is the all consuming presence of GOD in our life. We are founded and built on the Rock, Christ JESUS, and cannot be shaken; our Kingdom is Eternal.

ALL THE KINGDOM KIDS SHOUT, "THANK YOU, JESUS".

Saturday, November 19, 2011

THANKFUL HEART

Mark 8: 6-9 (NIV)
JESUS told the crowd to sit down on the ground. When He had taken the seven loaves and given thanks, He broke them and gave them to His disciples to set before the people, and they did so. They had a few small fish as well; He gave thanks for them also and told the disciples to distribute them. The people ate and were satisfied. Afterward the disciples picked up seven baskets full of broken pieces that were left over. About four thousand men were present, (Plus women and children).

HE GAVE THANKS, BROKE AND GAVE.

I am a person who likes to study the order in which JESUS does things. The order tells me a lot about how GOD sees us and how we are to act. First JESUS was moved with compassion because the people were hungry. What He is telling me is to look at the people around me and see where there is a need, then have compassion. "Compassion" means heart felt tenderness; "com", means with, "passion" means love from the heart. JESUS is saying, love from the heart the people whom you see.

Next, JESUS told them to sit down. He did not tell them to go away and find food, He knew that He would provide; the people also knew that He would provide for them. This shows an understanding of trust. JESUS trusted the Father to provide and the people trusted JESUS.

JESUS gave thanks to the Father for the gift of the "little boy's lunch". Seven loaves could hardly feed all the thousands of people, but JESUS gave thanks for the basic provision and for what the Father would do with it. He also gave thanks for the fish, because He knew that there would be enough for all to eat, from the Father's hand. JESUS trusted; the people trusted; and we are being called to trust in JESUS all the days of our life.

JESUS broke the loaves and fishes into pieces, this was a foretaste of the Body of JESUS broken for us. He was telling the world that He is the living bread that will be broken for all people for the redemption of each soul who comes to Him.

Then JESUS had the disciples lay the food before the people and they did eat and there was enough. The Body of JESUS, broken for us, is given freely for us to eat and be filled in our soul and spirit. He gave all for us in thanksgiving and trust; we receive Him in Communion with thanksgiving and trust.

TAKE, EAT, THIS IS MY (JESUS BODY) WHICH IS GIVEN FOR YOU. DO THIS IN REMEMBRANCE OF ME (JESUS).

Friday, November 18, 2011

THANKFUL HEART

Psalm 28: 7
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song.

THE SONG OF THE REDEEMED
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trust in Him.

This song comes from the heart of those who know that the LORD is in control of all situations. The LORD is a shield in the time of trouble, He is the strength to endure all situations. When we are tired of the heavy load of troubles, He is the sweet refreshment that brings Living Water into the heart and revives the soul. The heart leaps for joy and thanksgiving springs forth like a fountain of love to the LORD.

You might think that this is a song that resounds in us AFTER having received the answer to our prayer and a relief from the distresses of life; no, this song springs forth BEFORE AND AFTER the blessing of the LORD are seen. Notice the word "trust", trust is formed in the midst of circumstances and trials. Trust is strengthened as you see the LORD raise the shield and give the strength to endure. Trust comes to bloom when you see the impossible become possible in the light of GOD'S glory. Trust in GOD is the joy that springs from a heart that depends on GOD for everything.

Are you under a heavy load of circumstances right now? TRUST IN THE LORD, He is your shield and your strength. Give thanks to Him with a heart filled with great joy, for His has done great things for us and Holy is His Name.

THANKS BE TO GOD

Thursday, November 17, 2011

THANKFUL HEART

Psalm 79: 13
So, WE THY PEOPLE and sheep of Thy pasture, will give Thee thanks forever; we will show forth Thy praise to all generations.

I was touched by the words, "We, Thy People". "We Thy people and sheep of Thy pasture", we belong to GOD and are under the care of GOD. Just knowing that, should give your heart such gladness that you ring with thanksgiving. The LORD GOD who created the heavens and the earth watches over you, like a mother watches over her little child. He protects you in the same manner as the Shepherd watches over His sheep. In John 10:11-18 JESUS says that, He is the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep. He lays down His life for His sheep. WE ARE THE PEOPLE OF GOD.

On the day of remembrance to give thanks to GOD for all that He has done for us, let us also remember to give Him thanks for being our Good Shepherd, keeping us safe from all harm.

THANKS BE TO GOD; YOU ARE GREATLY TO BE PRAISED.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

THANKFUL HEART

I Thessalonians 5: 16-18
Rejoice evermore, pray without ceasing, In everything give thanks; for this is the will of GOD in Christ JESUS concerning you.

Many people ask the question, "What is the will of GOD for my life?" This question usually follows the very basic question, "Who am I and why am I here?" When GOD created us, He had a purpose for us and a plan for our life, from the time we were a thought in the mind of GOD, there was a part in His plan that only we could fill. Our obedience to Him, makes his plan more readily enacted.

What should we do to actively invest our self in the plan of GOD? We should "rejoice evermore, pray without ceasing and in everything give thanks to GOD in JESUS Christ" for all that He has done for us from the beginning. This puts us in the right relationship with GOD for Him to use us in His great plan of salvation for the people of the world. We may be called to plant a seed of the Love of GOD in a life; we may be called to nurture a new born child of GOD; we may be called to tend the flock of GOD or to sustain the people of GOD in prayer. We may be called by GOD; we must obey the call, with thanksgiving, rejoicing and pay our vows to the Most High through obedience.

THANKS BE TO GOD FOR HIS UNSPEAKABLE GIFT OF HIS SON, JESUS

THANKFUL HEART

I Chronicles 23:30
And to stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD; and likewise at evening.

PRAY WITHOUT CEASING; THANK WITHOUT CEASING; PRAISE WITHOUT CEASING

Thanksgiving is an all seasonal act; at all times we have so much to be thankful. I love to have times of reminders, and that is what the season of thanksgiving, with its feasts and friends, is all about, BUT, it is only a reminder of what we should be doing 24/7, 365 days a year; day, noon and night. We have a season of reminding, LEST WE FORGET.

Around many tables, we will be asked, "What are you thankful for?" and each person will answer from his heart. I want to give this instruction to us, "Count your many blessings, name them one by one, and it will surprise you what the LORD has done."

Every morning, at noon time and at night, I urge you to count your many blessings from GOD. Name them one by one and give the LORD the honor and praise due His Name. All good comes from GOD, so if you have received something good from Him say "thank you LORD". Thank you LORD for Your Word, for Salvation, for deliverance, for healing, for changing my thinking on a matter, for changing circumstances, FOR YOUR GREAT LOVE, MERCY, GRACE AND FAITHFULNESS.

"THANK YOU LORD FOR SAVING MY SOUL; THANK YOU LORD FOR MAKING ME WHOLE; THANK YOU LORD FOR GIVING TO ME, THY GREAT SALVATION SO RICH AND FREE."


Monday, November 14, 2011

THANKFUL HEART

Psalm 92: 1
It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy Name, O Most High.

IT IS A GOOD THING

Thanksgiving puts feet to the Gospel; thanksgiving puts flesh on our words, so that the Good News of GOD is revealed in the flesh. Jesus said, "when you see Me, you have seen the Father", could it be that when people see us, they can see JESUS? We are the hands and feet of JESUS, reaching out to the world with signs and wonders brought by Him to save, restore, forgive, and heal. Our duty is to be in right relationship with GOD, so that we shine with His glory.

When we are in the attitude of gratitude to GOD, we are in the right relationship with Him in order to be willing vessels, fit for His use. When we are singing praises unto His Name, we are a light that draws dark souls from their pit into the glorious light of Christ. It is a "good thing" to give thanks to the LORD, for us; It is a "good thing" for us to give thanks to the LORD and sing His praise, for others.

Thanksgiving in our heart, should ring like an endless song to GOD. Think about all that He has done for the salvation of humankind. List in your mind, or on paper, all the things that the LORD has done for you, than GIVE THANKS FROM THE HEART TO HIM.

LET THANKSGIVING RING FROM EVERY HEART, FOR JESUS IS LORD

Saturday, November 12, 2011

NEW NATURE-GIVING

II Corinthians 9: 10-15
PART 2
Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to GOD.
This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of GOD'S people but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to GOD. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise GOD for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the Gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace GOD has given you. Thanks be to GOD for His indescribable gift!

HE WHO SUPPLIES, WILL SUPPLY

GOD
is the supplier of every good thing. He supplies the seed, the desire to give, goodness, righteousness and the life of His Son, the good news that we give to others so that they, too will be saved. GOD is the supplier of every good thing. Goodness can only come from GOD, the enemy can only copy goodness, he can not create anything that is, in essence, good. You can identify the copy cat goodness by the strings attached. The LORD gives with no strings attached, no hoops to jump through, no forms to fill out; the gift of GOD is for whosoever is in need, just receive His gifts without condition.

What is the purpose of the unconditional gifts? To bring all souls to Christ and that they will be saved from the grip of the enemy. Since GOD gave all that He had for all to be saved, our obedience to Him paves the way for others to be saved.

What is our part? There are some ways that we have a part in the plan of GOD. Our faith in JESUS; our faith in His finished work; our proclamation of the Gospel; our worship of Him; our thanksgiving for all that He has done; our obedience to His call to go to those in need and to supply their need; these things are our part of GOD'S work. The life-line of GOD to man is in our response to His call to give.

GIVE WITHOUT COUNTING THE COST, GIVE AND IT SHALL BE GIVEN TO YOU, GIVE AND YOU WILL BE BLESSED, GIVE FROM THE STOREHOUSE OF GOD, GIVE HIS UNCONDITIONAL LOVE.



Friday, November 11, 2011

NEW NATURE-GIVING

II Corinthians 9: 6-9
PART I
Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also real sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for GOD loves a cheerful giver. And GOD is able to make all grace abound in you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. As it is written: "He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor, his righteousness endures forever."

Tomorrow, we will discuss verses 10-15 of II Corinthians, so if you want to read ahead, do so in preparation for tomorrow.

Every farmer will tell you that you have to plant seed in the ground in order to get a harvest. Giving to others is like planting seed in the ground, the harvest in the soul of those who receive the seed, will be great, to the glory of GOD. "Seed", JESUS says, is the Word of GOD. The Word of GOD is planted in many ways, kindness and giving are a some of the ways.

When we give out of a generous heart, GOD is well pleased and will bless those who give. His blessings will be down the line of the need that you have; it is like a "kiss" from GOD. The quote from Psalm 112:9 sums up the position of GOD on this matter. "He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever."

What is the blessing given to the one who scatters "his gifts to the poor"? The gift is a right relationship with GOD (righteousness). The Nature of GOD is to give and those who give are reflecting the nature of GOD; therefore, this nature endures forever. Those who reflect the nature of GOD are blessed and a blessing. Look at the word "all" in the II Corinthians verses. In all grace; all things at all time; all you need will be given unto you, because you have given.

TO GOD BE THE GLORY

Thursday, November 10, 2011

NEW NATURE-GIVING

I Peter 2:11, 12 (NIV)
Dearly Beloved, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify GOD on the day He visits us.

DEARLY BELOVED
The new nature of a born-again believer in JESUS Christ, makes us "strange and alien" to a sinful world. We are cautioned not to conform to this world, but to be transformed, by the renewing of our mind. The former associates will try to drag a believer in JESUS into the old way of life and will be angry, accusing you of doing wrong. The twelve step programs emphasis is on NOT returning to the place or environment of the old life, but step into the new life, clean and new. This is the same understanding for the life of the newly Born-again, they must NEVER return to the atmosphere and environment of the old life, where they were tempted by the devil to sin. The former associates will be watching to see what you do, this is a great opportunity to show the "good works" of GOD and lead them to Christ.

"Good works" are works done by JESUS, through you. These works will plant seeds of GOD in the lives of others. When we give, not counting the cost; give without "strings attached"; give with a heart of love and kindness, the sinful world will see these works of GOD and glorify Him. Acts of Grace can only come from GOD. Therefore, to God be the Glory.

This passage of Scripture, I Peter 2: 11, 12 in the KJV, begins with the words, "Dearly Beloved". That is who you are, who believe in JESUS. You are "dearly beloved" of GOD. His love, grace, mercy and great kindness are given to you by a Father who will never leave you of forsake you, EVER. What He asks of you is that you become a vessel for Him to give to those who are in need of Him. Give a drink of cold water to a thirsty soul; give clothing to the naked; give comfort to the broken-heart; give sight to the blind; give healing to the sick; give the Gospel to those who are perishing; ALL IN HIS HOLY NAME.

THE NATURE OF GOD IS TO GIVE; OUR NEW NATURE IS FOR HIM TO GIVE THROUGH US.

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

NEW NATURE-GIVING

Romans 12: 19-21
Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves but, rather, give place unto wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is mine; I will repay", saith the LORD. Therefore, if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink; for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

DEARLY BELOVED

The Apostle Paul is calling us his dear friends, beloved of GOD and precious. He is not scolding us for being little children, going about grabbing toys and hoarding them. Instead, he is coming to us as his dearly beloved friends. What does he want us to learn? He wants us to learn the path of GOD'S Love.

Who are the "enemies" that we are to feed and give a cup of water to drink? They are the unbelievers, those who walk apart from GOD and are willing victims of the work of the devil. This is why vengeance is the LORD'S work. He will repay the work done by the devil, meanwhile we are to comfort those who have become his victims. The victims of the devil are made victorious through JESUS; if they will turn to Him and believe on His Name, they will be saved from the destroyer. We are to be a life-line of GOD, giving to their needs, while the LORD saves them.

"Good" can only come from GOD. Good is the only thing that the enemy can not be, because goodness comes from love; and GOD is Love. There is only One who is good, the Father in Heaven. Those are not my words, JESUS said it in Luke 18: 19; and Matthew 19: 17. The only goodness comes from GOD Himself.

This example of the new nature given to us by JESUS is very deep and very intense. We are all confronted with evil deeds done to us. Take heart and take seriously these words from the Apostle Paul. "Be not overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

NEW NATURE-GIVING

Hebrews 11: 6
Without faith it is impossible to please Him; for He that cometh to GOD must know that He IS, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.

FAITH WITHOUT WORKS IS DEAD

How many times I have heard the verse, "faith without works is dead". I know that this is true and that faith and works are coupled together in the Heart of GOD. The Hebrew 11 passages makes this marriage understandable to me. We must believe that the LORD GOD is. He is alive and moving in the world with power and strength; with purpose and passion. GOD has a plan and that plan includes our obedience to Him. FIRST, COMES FAITH THAT HE IS.

When we come to GOD, we must know that He is, that is the faith that moves mountains. We must know that He rewards those who seek His Face, who turn to Him for guidance and direction in the path to be taken. Many of us arise in the morning and never glorify Him for who He is; never seek His face, His wisdom, His mercy, His guidance and His Love. We head out into the world without a mention of His Name and then expect that He is faithfully watching. GOD is faithfully watching, but He will act if we ask, seek and knock.

Before we take on the day, before we walk out the door of our home, before we speak to any other person, look to JESUS, glorify Him, magnify his Holy Name and greet His presence in your life and the life of all people. Then, go your way rejoicing, with your hands open to give His love to the world.

FREELY YOU HAVE RECEIVED; FREELY GIVE. LET HIS GLORY FILL THE WHOLE EARTH AS WE GLORIFY HIS NAME.