tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21762229166170205632024-03-13T21:50:22.879-07:00Kidgell PublishersThe Devotion Thought entries are based on readings from the One Year Bible. The comments are not just a paraphrase of the readings, but my personal notes based on what I glean from these readings in the light of my experiences and, sometimes, what is happening in the world today.saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.comBlogger134125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-69806976821083495372012-04-10T02:47:00.011-07:002012-04-10T02:47:57.291-07:00Devotion Thoughts - 15/07/2011<p> <strong>1 Chronicles 19:1-19. 1 Chronicles 20:1-8. 1 Chronicles 21:1-30</strong> </p> <p> <em>Satan wanted to bring trouble on the people of Israel, so he made David decide to take a census (21.1,GNB).... God was displeased with what had been done, so he punished Israel (21.7,GNB).... David said to God, "I have committed a terrible sin in doing this! Please forgive me. I have acted foolishly." (21.8,GNB).</em> </p> <p>David sinned in that taking a census of the people was not only an act of pride but was also a slight on God, showing misplaced confidence in his own ability to self-protect the nation. When things started to go wrong he confessed his sin, and asked God for forgiveness.</p> <p>Believers know that every sin they will ever have committed through life is carried by Jesus at Calvary, and so they are all forgiven. But the reality is that we still find ourselves sinning daily. What to do about it? Without going into theological depths, here is the answer: see your confession on the day of your salvation as clearing the slate of sins committed up to that point. Thereafter, sins committed daily (although already forgiven at Calvary) must be admitted to and confessed. That's basically it!</p> <p> <strong>Romans 2:25-29. Romans 3:1-8</strong> </p> <p> <em>If you obey the Law, your circumcision is of value; but if you disobey the Law, you might as well never have been circumcised (v.25,GNB).</em> </p> <p>This should be easy to understand. I can scrupulously pay my taxes and tell myself I am a good citizen. But paying my taxes will not keep me out of jail if I murder someone.</p> <p>With some denominations the emphasis is placed on what that denomination considers essential Christian living in order to obey God's commands. For example, by taking communion. But taking communion will be negated if we lie or steal. It is pointless to keep only certain parts of the law.</p> <p>Where does that leave us as Believers? Take care that we don't belittle the practices of denominations that differ from us!</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-12602748435817222532012-04-10T02:47:00.009-07:002012-04-10T02:47:51.291-07:00Devotion Thoughts - 14/07/2011<p> <strong>1 Chronicles 16:37-43. 1 Chronicles 17:1-27. 1 Chronicles 18:1-17</strong> </p> <p> <em>O LORD, there is none like thee, neither is there any God beside thee (17:20). <br/>The LORD preserved David whithersoever he went (18:13).</em> </p> <p>In a world where the worship of idols was the norm, it was no wonder that David, who worshipped only God, was so blessed. It is God's way to bless those who worship Him and reject idol worshippers. That did not mean David never had problems; as king of a country surrounded by many enemy nations, some stronger than Israel, he had plenty to contend with, but he always turned to God for help and guidance, and God looked after him. Believers have the same God, and the same privilege of being able to approach Him with their needs. Like David, believe that He cares for you and has met your needs [in Christ]; tell Him what the needs are, and leave the rest to Him; He will respond in your best interests.</p> <p> <strong>Acts 2:1-24</strong> </p> <p>We are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against those [who sin]. (v.2). <br/>[He] will render to every man according to his deeds (v.6).</p> <p>God is a just God, which is why we can trust His judgment to be true and fair. To ensure that God's judgment of man will be absolutely fair He has left judgment to His Son, because Jesus has lived as a man and knows what men go through. Jesus knows what it takes to stay true when tried; has experienced rejection; so He is able to justly judge and reward everyone according to their deeds.</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-30919586967223308882012-04-10T02:47:00.007-07:002012-04-10T02:47:45.031-07:00Devotion Thoughts - 13/07/2011<p> <strong>1 Chronicles 16:1-36</strong> </p> <p> <em>Give thanks to the LORD, call upon his name, make known his deeds among the people. (v.8) Sing to him, sing psalms to him; talk about all his wondrous works. (v.9). Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD. (v.10). Seek the LORD and his strength, seek his face continually. (v.11)</em> </p> <p>Never forget Who God is and what He can do, and worship Him. Many miss out on blessings from God because they don't ask. James, the leader of the church in Jerusalem, wrote: 'You don't have because you don't ask for it ... but sometimes you ask yet don't receive because you ask for the wrong reasons [such as lust]" ... (James 4:2,3).</p> <p>Try asking for things that enable you to glorify God; you'll soon discover that He is there for you! <br/><br/><strong>Romans 1:18-32</strong> </p> <p> <em>Because what may be known about God is plainly visible ... for God has shown it to them (v.19)... so that there is no excuse [for ignorance about God] (v.20)... professing that they are wise, they became fools... (v.22, my editing).</em> </p> <p>I can think of many highly educated men and women who, because of their exalted education, are know-it-alls who claim that there is no God. The Biblical description of them is that they are fools. In this reading Paul makes it clear that God's presence is visible in the world around us, and that only fools will choose to deliberately ignore the signs and pretend that there is no God. That is the meaning behind verse 4 from Psalm 10 which is in the next scripture portion.</p> <p>The Gospel is so simple to understand that children and those with simple, childlike faith can, with the help of God, work through our life's problems. Praise the Lord!</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-8172609779065141552012-04-10T02:47:00.005-07:002012-04-10T02:47:38.644-07:00Devotion Thoughts - 12/07/2011<p> <strong>1 Chronicles 12:19-40. 1 Chronicles 13:1-14. 1 Chronicles 14:1-17</strong> </p> <p> <em>David became famous in all the countries. The LORD made all nations afraid of him (14:17,ERV).</em> </p> <p>When someone is doing well the wider world gets to know about it. David was blessed because of his trust in the Lord, something he was not shy to write about judging by his many psalms. If we trust God as David did we, too, will be blessed. Then it is up to us to tell the world around us that God has been God to us, so that they can also be blessed by Him.</p> <p> <strong>Psalm 9:13-20</strong> </p> <p> <em>Death is the destiny of all the wicked, of all those who reject God (v.17,GNB).</em> </p> <p>The death written about here is the 'second death' referred to in Revelation 21:8. It is about everlasting separation from God. Those who don't believe that God would cast someone away forever should ask themselves why God needs to force into heaven those who have rejected Him. Rejection was their choice, a choice that will be respected by God.</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-72712197537698467892012-04-10T02:47:00.003-07:002012-04-10T02:47:29.879-07:00Bible Poetry - Proverbs 19:25<p> <strong>Proverbs 19:25</strong> </p> <p> <em>Strike a scoffer, and the simple will learn prudence; reprove a man of understanding, and he will gain knowledge. (v.25,ESV).</em> </p> <p>When simple see the silliness of scoffers they will learn; <br/>and knowledge will be gained by those with wits that can discern!</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-55428739549014843902012-04-10T02:47:00.001-07:002012-04-10T02:47:18.058-07:00Devotion Thoughts - 22/07/2011<p> <strong>Romans 7:14-25. Romans 8:1-8</strong> </p> <p> <em>For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.(v.5,ESV). <br/>Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. (v.8,ESV).</em> </p> <p>Living according to the flesh is about controlling our lives ourselves: operating in pride; being self-centred; believing in God but not allowing Him to have any real say in how we live our Christian lives. As the verse says, such a life cannot be pleasing to God. <br/>Living according to the Spirit happens when we trus God so much that we allow Him full control of our lives; we are guided by the Spirit and by the Word. Such a life does please God!</p> <p> <strong>Psalm 18:1-15</strong> </p> <p> <em>The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. (v.12,ESV).</em> </p> <p>David has no doubt that God is everything He needs to help him to succeed in life. And David's life was proof that God was able to protect him through many trials. What God is to us determines His relationship with us. If we have no faith and trust in God, then we will receive nothing from His hands. If we rely on Him for everything we need in life then He will not let us down!</p> <p> <strong>Proverbs 19:24-25</strong> </p> <p> <em>The sluggard buries his hand in the dish and will not even bring it back to his mouth. (v.24,ESV).</em> </p> <p>The thought here is that those who are lazy will not get anywhere. Believers should never stop honouring and serving God, and looking to Him for help in all that they are involved with. 'As your days so shall your strength be' (Deuteronomy 33:25) assures us that whatever strength we apply to God's service will be renewed in us.</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-78662053624354759852012-01-23T02:48:00.015-08:002012-01-23T02:48:48.439-08:00Bible Poetry: Proverbs 19:22, 23<p> <strong>Proverbs 19:22, 23</strong> </p> <p> <em>What is desired in a man is steadfast love, and a poor man is better than a liar (v.22,ESV).</em> </p> <p>I will not impress my Father <br/>with my trophies won in sport; <br/>for I know that He would rather <br/>see what I through love have wrought!</p> <p> <em>The fear of the LORD leads to life, and whoever has it rests satisfied; he will not be visited by harm (v.23,ESV).</em> </p> <p>To fear the Lord will lead to life, <br/>for fear shows our respect <br/>for God's great power to still all strife <br/>that might harm His elect!</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-4467501693547986542012-01-23T02:48:00.013-08:002012-01-23T02:48:43.239-08:00Bible Poetry: Psalm 17:1-15<p> <strong>Psalm 17:1-15</strong> </p> <p> <em>I am innocent, LORD, and I will see your face! When I awake, all I want is to see you as you are. (v.15,CEV).</em> </p> <p>Those whose sins have been forgiven will see Jesus face to face. It will not be a dream! We will live with Him forever thanks to the cleansing away of our sins at Calvary.</p> <p>I have tried, by my behaviour, <br/>to obey God's holy Word; <br/>taking Jesus as my Saviour <br/>also means He is my Lord! <br/>In my heart He dwells forever, <br/>and one day I'll see His face; <br/>and that day will come whenever <br/>I have run my earthly race!</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-52831773805243286292012-01-23T02:48:00.011-08:002012-01-23T02:48:37.283-08:00Devotion Thoughts - 21/07/2011<p> <strong>2 Chronicles 4:1-27. 2 Chronicles 5:1-14. 2 Chronicles 6:1-11</strong> </p> <p> <em>It was the duty of the trumpeters and singers to make themselves heard in unison in praise and thanksgiving to the LORD … with trumpets and cymbals and other musical instruments… "For He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever," … The house of the LORD was filled with a cloud so that the priests could not stand to minister … for the glory of the LORD filled the house of God. (5:13-14,ESV).</em> </p> <p>There are certain words in this passage that I find are the key to the proper worship of God. The words are:</p> <ol> <li>Duty. The worship of God is not a chore, or something we do haphazardly; it is a duty. God is worthy of all glory and honour, for He is the Almighty God Who made heaven and earth and all in it, including man; so it is our duty to worship Him.</li> <li>Unison. An alternative word could well be 'harmony'. We are to be united in our praise and worship of God. That we don't all have the same style of worship or even doctrines does not make any difference if we are all born again Believers. And as we, as different denominations of the Church, unite in our praise, God will be glorified.</li> <li>Praise and Thanksgiving. That we have trials in this world is a given. That we are to be thankful to God and praise Him is because of Who He is, and not because of what He does for us. That said, we will emerge from this life having had more blessings than otherwise, because of God's great love for us.</li> </ol> <p>When Believers from different denominations can unite in worship of God, playing our music instruments and singing to His glory, He will fill us all with a sense of His glory.</p> <p>Come, Believers! Let us unite in our Praises to God!</p> <p> <strong>Romans 7:1-13</strong> </p> <p> <em>As far as the Law is concerned, you also have died because you are part of the body of Christ; and now you belong to Him who was raised from death in order that we might be useful in the service of God. (v.4,GNB).</em> </p> <p>Without Jesus controlling and using us, we can do nothing worthwhile in service for God. With Jesus indwelling us, every Believer must live as one having no rights, so that Jesus controls us completely. It is a Master / slave relationship in which we are fruitful only if we obey Jesus, the all-knowing Master, without hesitation. Always bear in mind that one day we will stand before Him and render an account of our lives. We will never feel ashamed if we have lived our lives for God!</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-68533793552711300382012-01-23T02:48:00.009-08:002012-01-23T02:48:31.922-08:00Bible Poetry: Proverbs 19:20, 21<p> <strong>Proverbs 19:20, 21</strong> </p> <p> <em>Pay attention to advice and accept correction, so you can live sensibly (v.20,CEV).</em> </p> <p>If you would live a life well spent, <br/>accept advice that is well meant! *</p> <p> <em>We may make a lot of plans, but the LORD will do what he has decided (v.20,CEV).</em> </p> <p>Though we scheme and plan <br/>and do all we can <br/>to ensure we live our way, <br/>God will always do <br/>what He wanted to <br/>to ensure that we don't stray!</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-69561571796128127842012-01-23T02:48:00.007-08:002012-01-23T02:48:26.346-08:00Devotion Thoughts - 20/07/2011<p> <strong>2 Chronicles 1:1-17. 2 Chronicles 2:1-18. 2 Chronicles 3:1-17</strong> </p> <p> <em>The house that I am to build will be great, for our God is greater than all gods (2:5,ESV). <br/>No one can ever build a temple large enough for God--even the heavens are too small a place for Him to live in! All I can do is build a place where we can offer sacrifices to him (2:6,CEV).</em> </p> <p>Solomon did not know that one day the God Who created the universe would take up His abode in the hearts of His saints. With God all things are possible! And what is more, it is there, in the hearts of His saints, that the saints can offer their sacrifices to God - surrendered hearts and lives that He can use for His glory!</p> <p> <strong>Romans 6:1-23</strong> </p> <p> <em>You are to think of yourselves as dead, so far as sin is concerned, but living in fellowship with God through Christ Jesus (v.11,GNB).</em> </p> <p> <em>For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (v.23).</em> </p> <p>In spite of the guiding presence of God in our hearts, we all sin. The trick is to live exactly as verse 11 suggests: 'Think of yourself as dead to sin', constantly reminding yourself that you are dead to all temptations, at the same time making the deliberate choice to have fellowship with God, especially when temptations are fierce. With practice, each day sin becomes less tempting and fellowship with God more to be desired. This is the thought behind Psalm 16, particularly verse 8.</p> <p> <strong>Psalm 16:1-11</strong> </p> <p> <em>I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved (v.8).</em> </p> <p>Making the deliberate choice to serve God at all times is the way to develop a solid spiritual lifestyle in which we are always in God's will.</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-31473190571743226972012-01-23T02:48:00.005-08:002012-01-23T02:48:19.543-08:00Devotion Thoughts - 19/07/2011<p> <strong>1 Chronicles 28:1-21. 1 Chronicles 29:1-30</strong> </p> <p> <em>[God] said to [David], Solomon your son ... shall build my house ... for I have chosen him to be my son, and I will be his father. (28:6).</em> </p> <p> <em>... know God ... and serve him with a perfect heart and a willing mind; for ... if you seek Him, you will find Him... (28:9, my editing).</em> </p> <p> <em>The LORD magnified Solomon exceedingly in the sight of all Israel (29:25)</em> </p> <p>Believers are God's children, and He enjoys having them around Him! Seize the opportunity to get to know Him better, and discover how much blessings He is able to bestow on Believers!</p> <p> <strong>Romans 5:6-21</strong> </p> <p> <em>God's love toward us was such that, while we were still sinners, [He sent] Christ to die for us (v.8). <br/>Now that we have been justified by [Christ's] blood we shall be saved from [God's] wrath through Him (v.9).</em> </p> <p>God's love has to be immeasurable given that He sent His own Son to die for filthy sinners who were in their spiritually filthy state. Those who have accepted the free gift of cleansing and salvation that Jesus affords, will avoid the punishment intended for sinners, and enjoy that great love of God!</p> <p> <strong>Psalm 15:1-5</strong> </p> <p> <em>Only those who obey God in everything and always do what is right, whose words are true and sincere, [will live on His holy hill] (v.2,GNB).</em> </p> <p>When His Beloved Son, Jesus, bore the sins of the world on Himself on the cross, the Father, Who hates sin, had to look away. He still will not tolerate unforgiven, uncleansed sin where He dwells. That is why only those who are born again, whose every sin has been washed away in the blood of Jesus, will be allowed to join God in His heavenly and holy kingdom.</p> <p> <strong>Proverbs 19:18, 19</strong> </p> <p> <em>Discipline your children while they are young enough to learn. If you don't, you are helping them destroy themselves (v.18,GNB).</em> </p> <p>God has spoken. Dr. Spock made a huge impact on parenting methods by suggesting that spanking a child would warp his character. His own son committed suicide, which we can assume was punishment for Spock for daring to contradict God. If we obey in all situations we can expect His help in those situations.</p> <p> <em>If someone has a hot temper, let him take the consequences. If you get him out of trouble once, you will have to do it again (v.19,GNB).</em> </p> <p>To be 'tolerant 'of a person who often loses their temper is to invite him / her to carry with their hotheaded behaviour. That does not work. We do well to do things God's way!</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-65734626502318735692012-01-23T02:48:00.003-08:002012-01-23T02:48:13.677-08:00Devotion Thoughts - 18/07/2011<p> <strong>1 Chronicles 26:12-32. 1 Chronicles 27:1-34</strong> </p> <p> <em>Among ... the divisions of the porters, even among the chief men ... [vied to be doorkeepers who ministered] in the house of the LORD. (26:12).</em> </p> <p>There is honour in any service done for the Lord! The chief men vied with their people for the privilege of being a doorkeeper in the house of the Lord when it was their tribe's turn to minister. David put it like this:</p> <p> <em>'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' (Psalm 84:10).</em> </p> <p>Sound advice to follow!</p> <p>No amount of gain - socially, materially, etc - can ever be as blessed as the lowliest service done for the Lord.</p> <p>If you are not presently involved in some form of service (usher, secretary, mowing the church lawns, etc) then consider taking on some form of service for the Lord.</p> <p> <strong>Romans 4:13-25. Romans 5:1-5</strong> </p> <p> <em>'... being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ' (5:1).</em> </p> <p>What a relief when we know that we are right with the Almighty God Who holds the power of life and death over us! By His mercy He has made a way for us to be cleansed of sin through His Son, Jesus Christ. All it takes is for us to have faith in Jesus, trusting in Him alone for cleansing from sin. How will we know we are right with God? When we accept Jesus as our Saviour The Holy Spirit of God enters our hearts and brings with Him God's unmistakable peace.</p> <p> <strong>Psalm 14:1-7</strong> </p> <p> <em>But [sinners] will be terrified, for God is [only] with those who obey him (v.7:GNB).</em> </p> <p>'Sinners' includes fools who do not believe in God. Because sinners do not have the presence of God in their lives they are not sure what to expect after death. Even those who don't believe in God feel uncertainty when death approaches. Only Believers will experience peace with God (Romans 5:1).</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-62698498338682715832012-01-23T02:48:00.001-08:002012-01-23T02:48:07.232-08:00Bible Poetry: Proverbs 19:16<p> <strong>Proverbs 19:16</strong> </p> <p> <em>Obey the Lord's teachings and you will live-- disobey and you will die (v.16,CEV).</em> </p> <p>The Lord's teachings are clearly set out in the Bible. The verse reminds us that they are there to be obeyed - if we want to live {in heaven with Him] forever. Those who choose to ignore God's unchangeable word and teach what He opposed will die [spiritually, that is, be separated from God forever in eternity]. <br/><br/>'Obey the Lord if you would live <br/>and garner all that He can give. <br/>But if His teachings you defy, <br/>you'll never live with Him on high!'</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-2585803962769277652012-01-23T02:47:00.013-08:002012-01-23T02:47:57.518-08:00Devotion Thoughts - 17/07/2011<p> <strong>1 Chronicles 24:1-31</strong> </p> <p> <em>David distributed ... according to their offices in their service (24:3).</em> </p> <p>The ordering of the worship was strictly set out according to the availability and ability of those chosen for the ministry. The ministry is not something just anyone could do. Jeroboam, first king of the northern kingdom (Israel), and not God, appointed 'priests' with no ministerial credibility in God's eyes; the result was that idol worship was the norm in Israel (1 Kings 12:31).</p> <p>Unfortunately, there are many today for whom service in the church is a career and not a calling, and are leading many astray. 'Ministers', without the Holy Spirit indwelling them to guide and teach them the true meaning of God's word, tend to teach what is contrary to the Bible. That is why John warns us to beware of evil spirits (1 John 4:1); they lead astray Bible 'teachers' who are not born again. Believers, having the Holy Spirit in their hearts, know the truth which has set them free (John 8:32).</p> <p> <strong>1 Chronicles 25:1-31</strong> </p> <p> <em>The sons of Asaph ... prophesied ... (25.2) ... the sons of Jeduthun ... prophesied with a harp ... [and] gave thanks and to praise the LORD.... (25:3) ... with music and song and ... with cymbals, psalteries, and harps, for the service of the house of God ... (25:6).</em> </p> <p>Many and varied were the ministries, with music providing a very important ministry that enhanced the worship of God. It's going to be quite something to hear the angel Gabriel tootin' his horn (trumpet)!</p> <p> <strong>1 Chronicles 26:1-11</strong> </p> <p> <em>Concerning the divisions of the porters ... (26:1)... they were mighty men of valour....(26:6) ... strong men (26:7) ... able men for strength for the service (26:8).</em> </p> <p>Those chosen to serve God as porters had to be good men 'of valour' who had the strength for the moving of the equipment used in worship. That they are named shows that this was not merely a task for lesser men; it was important work! In fact, all work for God is important! We must rejoice in whatever service we can render for our loving God!</p> <p> <strong>Romans 4:1-12</strong> </p> <p> <em>You cannot make God accept you because of something you do. God accepts sinners only because they have faith in Him (v.5,CEV).</em> </p> <p>Some religions teach that you must be busy doing things for God so that He will accept you into His kingdom. Clearly, this is not what the Bible teaches, as in 'Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us (Titus 3:5). If we were able to 'earn' credits with service for God, we would have Him in our debt, and could use that against Him. But He owes us nothing, and we can never expect to hold anything over God. Besides, who decides what service is acceptable to God? Us or God? <br/>Just serve Him as a matter of course, and leave our rewards to Him.</p> <p> <strong>Psalm 13:1-6</strong> </p> <p> <em>I will sing to the LORD, because he has dealt bountifully with me (v.6).</em> </p> <p>In spite of the troubles that He is enduring, the psalmist ends his complaints with words of praise and an acknowledgment that, when all is said and done, The Lord has blessed him. Let us also count our many blessings and thank God for all He has done for us and all that He means to us.</p> <p> <strong>Proverbs 19:15</strong> </p> <p> <em>Laziness brings on sleep, and an appetite for rest brings on hunger (v.15,ERV).</em> </p> <p>Paul must have had the following verse in mind when he wrote: '... this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat' (2 Thessalonians 3:10). The lesson is clear enough: God does not approve of idleness. Do as Jesus did Who said: 'I must work the works of Him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work' (John 9:4).</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-11557210829192780612012-01-23T02:47:00.011-08:002012-01-23T02:47:50.281-08:00Devotion Thoughts - 16/07/2011<p> <strong>1 Chronicles 22:1-19 1 Chronicles 23:1-32</strong> </p> <p> <em>[The Levites were appointed] to praise and glorify the LORD every morning and every evening (23:30,GNB).</em> </p> <p>The worship of God must be a very disciplined matter. Almighty God must be first in all our thoughts and be consulted about all matters relating to our lives. Don't ever rush into each day with the thought that you have to 'get on with things'. Before ever we commence any daily activity, we must 'acknowledge Him in all our ways' (Proverbs 3:6) at the beginning of each day, then He will gladly 'direct our paths' through the day so that each day is well and efficiently used and brings us the most benefit. Do this, trust God, and you will be amazed at how much more you achieve in life, and be full of praise for God at the end of each day!</p> <p> <strong>Romans 3:9-31</strong> </p> <p> <em>As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one... (v.10). <br/>For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God (v.23).</em> </p> <p>There is not one person who can claim to be righteous unless their sins have been washed away in the blood of Jesus Christ. The only people who will dwell in heaven are those who have confessed that they are sinners, asked God for forgiveness, and relied on the blood of Jesus sacrificed on Calvary to take all their sins away. Only then are they cleansed from sin so that God can indwell them (Revelation :14). But once God indwells us we do not 'come short' of having God's glory in our lives! The fulness of God will be in us, enabling us to live powerful God-honouring lives!</p> <p> <strong>Psalm 12:1-8</strong> </p> <p> <em>The wicked walk on every side, when the vilest men are exalted (v.8).</em> </p> <p>When corrupt individuals are praised then more and more sinners will be encouraged to parade their sinful lifestyles for all the world to see. By God's grace, true Believers have His power within them so that they do not practise sinful behaviour.</p> <p> <strong>Proverbs 19:13-14</strong> </p> <p> <em>Stupid children can bring their parents to ruin. A nagging wife is like water going drip-drip-drip (v.13,GNB).</em> </p> <p> <em>You may inherit all you own from your parents, but a sensible wife is a gift from the LORD (v.14,CEV).</em> </p> <p>A sensible wife is a great blessing for what she brings to the union helps when there are no worthwhile material blessings. Never fail to give thanks to God if you have a sensible wife! God's favour is on you!</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-4378746063387297982012-01-23T02:47:00.009-08:002012-01-23T02:47:44.502-08:00Bible Poetry: Proverbs 18:14-15<p> <strong>Proverbs 18:14-15</strong> </p> <p> <em>Being cheerful helps when we are sick, but nothing helps when we give up (v.14,CEV).</em> </p> <p>If, when we are sickly, we still give a smile, <br/>we will feel much better within a short while; <br/>but if we feel hopeless, and think all is lost, <br/>then nothing will help us no matter the cost.</p> <p> <em>An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge (v.15,ESV).</em> </p> <p>Those who know seek more to 'know', <br/>and listen, that their 'know' can grow!</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-25139600864760316352012-01-23T02:47:00.007-08:002012-01-23T02:47:38.784-08:00Bible Poetry: Psalm 3:1-8<p> <strong>Psalm 3:1-8</strong> </p> <p> <em>But you, O LORD, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head. (v.3).</em> </p> <p>What wonderful peace David enjoyed because of his faith in God. Even when his world was in turmoil, with his own son, Absalom, trying to kill him, David saw his God as a protector (shield), as someone to worship for the great glory in Himself, and One Who can lift up Believers when they are feeling down.</p> <p>My glorious God is my Protector; <br/>when I'm down He lifts me up; <br/>He alone has earned my worship; <br/>He alone can fill my cup!</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-78110819193364866952012-01-23T02:47:00.005-08:002012-01-23T02:47:33.057-08:00Devotion Thoughts - 05/07/2011<p> <strong>1 Chronicles 1:1-54. 1 Chronicles 2:1-17</strong> </p> <p> <em>'Adam, Sheth, Enosh ... (1.1) ... [to] ... David ...' (2.15).</em> </p> <p>This is part of the genealogy of Jesus from Adam to King David. Because the genealogical records of the Jews were destroyed when Titus conquered Jerusalem in 70 A.D., there is no certainty about who the descendants of Aaron are who had the responsibility for offering the sacrifices on behalf of the people. But the genealogy of Jesus, a descendant of King David, is known. In place of the Temple sacrifices annually on the Day of the Atonement, Jesus was sacrificed on a cross on Calvary's hill, a sacrifice that is totally efficacious forever for every Believer. Never again does a sacrifice have to be made for atonement for sin!</p> <p> <strong>Acts 23:11-35 <br/> </strong> <br/><em>'... the Lord stood by him, and said, Be of good cheer, Paul: for as you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also bear witness at Rome' (v.11).</em> </p> <p>God had a plan for Paul's life, just as He has for every Believer. To be a winner in God's plan we must surrender our plans and wills to Him. Of course He might choose to use our plans, but He is just as likely to set us off in a whole new direction. That is why we must not insist in God using 'our' plans. In the long term, the benefits from serving God are far greater than what we, with our limited resources, can gain by our efforts.</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-90764644965630358882012-01-23T02:47:00.003-08:002012-01-23T02:47:19.324-08:00Bible Poetry: Proverbs 17:27-28<p> <strong>Proverbs 17:27-28</strong> <br/><em>Intelligent people choose their words carefully. Those who know what they are doing remain calm. (v.27,ERV). Silent fools seem wise. They say nothing and appear to be smart. (v.28,ERV). <br/><br/> </em>If we choose our words with care <br/>and we never rant nor swear, <br/>we will be considered as intelligent; <br/>if we do not have much brain <br/>but from talking we refrain <br/>we will still seem wise of purpose and intent!</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-61073638750147412722012-01-23T02:47:00.001-08:002012-01-23T02:47:07.547-08:00Devotion Thoughts - 25/06/2011<p> <strong>2 Kings 9:14-37. 2 Kings 10:1-31</strong> <br/><em>The LORD said to Jehu, "You have done well. ... You destroyed Ahab's family the way I wanted you to... " (10:30)...But Jehu was not careful to follow the law of the LORD with all his heart. Jehu did not stop committing the sins of Jeroboam that caused Israel to sin. (10:31). (ERV). <br/> </em> <br/>Ahab's dynasty started with murder and the usurping of the throne of Israel, and ended the same way, with Jehu wiping out Ahab's family. Ahab's family murdered the Lord's servants (9:7), and made the deliberate choice to be idol worshippers. God saw that there was no point in allowing them to continue in their evil ways. <br/><br/><strong>Acts 17:1-34</strong> <br/><em>God began by making one man, and from him he made all the different people who live everywhere in the world. He decided exactly when and where they would live (v26,ERV). <br/>It is through him that we are able to live, to do what we do, and to be who we are. ...'We all come from him.' (v.28,ERV).</em> <br/><br/>Having created us, God has a right to use us as He sees fit. It is up to each individual to realise this, and to make the most of the situation. Having given us His Word for our guidance, it pays us to get to know what He wants of us and to fit in with Him. And to those who give Him their all He gives His best - eternal life with Him in the wonderful new heaven and earth that will replace the spoiled earth we currently live in.</p> <p> <strong>Psalm 144:1-15</strong> <br/><em>LORD, why are people important to you? Why do you even notice us? (v3,ERV). <br/> </em> <br/>Those are interesting questions. As we read through the Bible we find the answer very simple: God made us because He wants to have fellowship with us. But because of Satan the serpent, Adam and Eve were enticed into sin, a condition inherited by their descendants, all of mankind. A holy God does not fellowship with unholy people, so God made a plan by which we can become holy: believe in Jesus for salvation and cleansing. Forgiven sins are gone forever, making us holy, and enabling God to fellowship with us. That is why we are important to Him! <br/> </p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-87327363974859551892011-09-29T01:37:00.001-07:002011-09-29T01:42:36.033-07:00Devotion Thoughts - 28/05/2011<b>2 Samuel 13:1-39</b> <br />
<i>Amnon had a friend, whose name was Jonadab... a very subtle man (v.3).</i><br />
In many situations where an answer is sought, there are those who can think up what are thought of as good solutions. Jonadab was such a man; he suggested a plan for Amnon. However, his plan was not from God and had an unhappy outcome.<br />
We must always look to God for guidance when the way forward seems unclear.<br />
<b>John 17:1-26</b> <br />
<i>As Jesus prayed He lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify Your Son, that Your Son may glorify You in return (v.1) I don't pray that You should take [My disciples] out of the world, but that You should keep them from evil (v.15). Nor do I pray for [My disciples] only, but also for those who will believe in me through their witness (v.20).</i> <br />
Jesus was serious in His praying for His disciples, and for the spiritual descendants who came to Christ through them, right down to today's Believers. There are many powerful thoughts in this chapter, of which I have selected three:<br />
1. The glory that Jesus was looking forward to was not just what He would have once back in heaven, but included the opportunity to go to the cross in obedience to His Father's desire to make a way of salvation for mankind (v.1). (Wow, Lord!)<br />
2. In the world evil abounds, but Believers will only grow spiritually by staying in the world and overcoming evil with the Father's help, just as Jesus did (v.15).<br />
3. We Believers must be eternally thankful that Jesus thought about us, too, when He prayed (v.20).<br />
<b>Psalm 119:81-96</b> <br />
<i>O LORD, Your word is settled in heaven for ever (v.89). I will never forget Your precepts, for by them You have made me alive (v.93).</i> <br />
Jesus said heaven and earth would pass away but not His word (Luke 21:33). The psalmist was inspired to have realised that God's spoken words are far more permanent than the somewhat solid-looking universe we inhabit! Let us heed the word of Jesus as we have them in the New Testament.<br />
<b>Proverbs 16:6,7</b> <br />
<i>(v.6) By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil. (v.7) When a man's ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.</i> <br />
Just for a change I am using the Good News Bible for their rendering of these two verses. I have often made good use of this translation. Anyone who wants to really get to grips with what the Bible is about will find this translation easy reading, much like a novel. If you have the time, reading through in a week will jumpstart your Bible knowledge!<br />
<i>v. 6. Be loyal and faithful, and God will forgive your sin. Obey the LORD and nothing evil will happen to you.</i> <br />
<i>v.7. When you please the LORD, you can make your enemies into friends.</i> <br />
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saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-42474654994112235652011-09-29T01:25:00.001-07:002011-09-29T01:25:50.500-07:00Devotion Thoughts - 27/05/2011<p> <strong>2 Samuel 12:1-31</strong> </p> <p> <em>Nathan said to David, You are the one! 2Sa 12:7 Why did you despise the Lord's commandment by doing evil [committing murder]? (v.9)You did it secretly, but I will expose it to the whole world (v.12). David confessed to Nathan, "I have sinned against the LORD" (v.13).</em> </p> <p>David did not see the trap until Nathan pointed out that he was the guilty one. Those who believe that they have successfully covered up their sin are mistaken; God always sees what we do. When he realised he had been found out, David acknowledged his sin and was forgiven. <br/>Either our sin is revealed when we ask forgiveness of Jesus and see all our sins washed away, or (for unbelievers), make no confession and have every sin revealed at the Judgment. Thankfully, for Believers, our confessed sins have been forgiven, wiped away, and forgotten by God forever.</p> <p> <strong>John 16:1-33</strong> </p> <p> <em>The Father himself loves you, because you have loved me, and believed that I came out from God (v.27). {My paraphrase}.</em> </p> <p>It must have been a mind-boggling experience for the disciples to realise - and believe - that Jesus had come from God to them. But that is just the start. One day we will know and enjoy all the blessings that God has prepared for us. And because He loves us we can expect to be richly blessed by the Father!</p> <p>In the meantime, Believer, enjoy His indwelling presence in your heart!</p> <p> <strong>Proverbs 16:4-5</strong> </p> <p> <em>v.4. The LORD made all things for himself, even the wicked for the day of evil.</em> </p> <p>Although Believers go through trials, they will never ever face the punishment that will be the lot of the unsaved in eternity. Part of that punishment will be everlasting separation from loving God. He made everything for Himself, so is not pleased with Satan and His followers and all unsaved people who have chosen to ignore God's right to their worship of Him. They will get their hearts' desire in that they will not be living with Him in heaven!</p> <p> <em>v.5. Every one who is proud in heart is an abomination to the LORD ... he shall not be unpunished.</em> </p> <p>God is love and wants to love us at all times. But the proud are so because they think they are superior, and so will not be the recipients of His love. This verse does not say that all proud people will be cast away; if they realise they have angered God, they have the opportunity to humble themselves before Him, and be eligible for a place in His Kingdom.</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-66597275196322031882011-09-29T01:19:00.001-07:002011-09-29T01:19:57.168-07:00Devotion Thoughts - 26/05/2011<p> <strong>2 Samuel 9:1-13</strong> </p> <p> <em>David asked if there were any of Saul's family left so that he could show kindness to them for Jonathan's sake (v.1). {My paraphrase}.</em> </p> <p>Having promised Jonathan that he would show kindness to his descendants (1 Samuel 20:14,42), David did so once he was established in his kingdom. He was a man who kept his promises, which is according to God's description of him as 'a man after my own heart'. God expects us to keep the promises we make in life.</p> <p> <strong>2 Samuel 10:1-19</strong> </p> <p> <em>David went to meet [his envoys] for they felt greatly ashamed of their treatment, and he told them to remain in Jericho until their beards had grown and they felt comfortable about returning home (v.5).</em> </p> <p>This is another incident that confirms that David was a thoughtful man. Having been embarrassed by their treatment at the hands of the Ammonites, David went personally to comfort them, and told them to stay in Jericho until they were ready to return home. It was this sort of conduct that made David popular with his people.</p> <p> <strong>2 Samuel 11:1-27</strong> </p> <p> <em>When the mourning period was over, David sent for [Bathsheba]. She became his wife, and bare him a son. But what he had done displeased the LORD (v.27).</em> </p> <p>What a blemish on David's character! We have been reading about David being a man of his word and very thoughtful of others. Now, however, we find him concealing his adultery by arranging for the murder of the husband! Of course God was displeased, and was not going to allow David to get away with it.</p> <p>We all commit sin! Fortunately our wonderful God does not write us off or stop using us for His service. However, sin always has consequences. The son born to David and Bathsheba from the adulterous relationship died, as God had said he would. But we can be encouraged in that God did not hold their sin against them forever. After losing the son born of their adultery, their next son, Solomon, became king, even though he was not the oldest of David's sons.</p> <p> <strong>Psalm 119:49-64</strong> </p> <p> <em>Remember Your word to me, Your servant, by which You caused me to hope. It comforts me in my affliction, for that word from You inspired me (vv.49,50).</em> </p> <p>When God called me into full-time ministry He did so by using certain verses of Scripture. Through the years those verses have kept me on track, helping me to remember that I am a servant of the Lord. At times when I have not seen the purpose in some of the things that happened in my life, those verses assured me that God would work things out in my life; all I had to do was be a faithful servant. <br/>If God has given you messages of hope, trust them. Like a spiritual life belt, they will keep you afloat until the Lord lifts you out of the stormy waves of doubt and confusion.</p> <p> <strong>Proverbs 16:1-3</strong> </p> <p> <em>Commit your works to the LORD, then what you have envisioned will happen (v.3). {My paraphrase}.</em> </p> <p>First, the Lord lays on our hearts certain things He wants us to do. We spend time praying over them, and getting some clarity about how they can become reality. The next stage is to let the Lord know that you are ready to proceed, and how you plan to proceed, and pray for Him for the means to complete the thing planned. God then makes it become a reality. <br/>It really is that simple, but sometimes our faith is tested while we wait for God to act!</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2176222916617020563.post-82247491534707743672011-09-29T01:05:00.001-07:002011-09-29T01:05:33.230-07:00Devotion Thoughts - 25/05/2011<p> <strong>2 Samuel 7:1-29</strong> </p> <p> <em>Nathan said to the king, Go, do everything that is in your heart, for the LORD is with you (v.3). [But] that night the word of the LORD came to Nathan, saying (v.4), "Tell David, when you die I will set up one of your sons (v.12), who shall build a house for my name, and I will establish his throne for your descendants forever" (v.13). David's response was ..."O Lord God, please do as You say and establish my descendants on the throne of Israel forever" (v.25). {My paraphrase}.</em> </p> <p>The fulfilment of the prophecies is one of the reasons I believe the Bible to be the Word of God. In this chapter, relating to events some 1000 years before the birth of Jesus, Nathan the prophet has a knee-jerk reaction, much like Believers, most of the time! Without first asking God for guidance, he assumes that God is happy with David and will bless everything he does, and tells David to go ahead and build the house for God. But God has other plans which He reveals to Nathan. He tells David that his descendants will sit on Israel's throne forever.</p> <p>Until taken away into captivity in Babylon, the kings of Judah were descendants of David, the shepherd boy from Bethlehem. And because the genealogical records of the Jews were destroyed in 70 AD when Titus sacked Jerusalem, Jesus is the last known descendant of king David! His genealogical records are written in the New Testament. Yes, there is a break in that Israel do not presently have a visible king, but Jesus has been alive all along (except for three days after Calvary), and He is going to sit on David's throne ...forever! When He, the One appointed to be King of kings and Lord of lords, returns He will not only rule Israel but all mankind ... forever!</p> <p> <strong>2 Samuel 8:1-18</strong> </p> <p> <em>The LORD protected David, and gave him victory everywhere (v.14).</em> </p> <p>Strengthened and supported by God, David was unstoppable, gaining victories over all enemies along his borders. God did this so that when Solomon came to the throne there would be peace in the land, allowing him the opportunity to build the Temple.</p> <p>Know this: When God has work for us to do He always prepares the way for us. So if we are facing difficulties it is because it is part of God's preparations for whatever He would have us do.</p> <p> <strong>John 14:15-31</strong> </p> <p> <em>If you love me, keep my commandments (v.15).</em> </p> <p>Many claim to be in fellowship with Jesus but do not love their neighbour (Matthew 19:19), that is, they do not keep this particular command. According to Jesus, it means that they do not love Him. There are other commandments that Believers (yes, Believers) struggle to obey. Fortunately, because of His great love for us, Jesus is not going to summarily stop having fellowship with us. He will, thankfully, continue to help us to grow spiritually. But if we are to keep His commandments we must be prepared for a daily surrender of our will to Him and a commitment to ongoing spiritual growth. If we do, holiness is bound to grow in us.</p> <p> <strong>Psalm 119:33-48</strong> </p> <p> <em>LORD, teach me Your statutes; and I shall keep it unto the end (v.33).</em> </p> <p>There is no way of knowing what God wants of us if we don't spend time every day reading our Bibles to find that out!</p> <p> <strong>Proverbs 15:33</strong> </p> <p> <em>Through fearing the LORD we will want instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility (v.33).</em> </p> <p>Through (a healthy) fear and respect for God we seek to learn about Him so that we can please Him. Once we learn to obey God's word we will be able to instruct others.</p> <p>We must be humble enough to be led by others before we can lead others well.</p> <hr id="hr"/> <p> <br/> </p> <p xmlns="" class="poweredbyzoundry">Powered by <a href="http://www.zoundryraven.com" class="poweredbyzoundry_link" rel="nofollow">Zoundry Raven</a></p>saint_edhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12421058267141884168noreply@blogger.com0