KNOWING GOD BY NAME - Book Review

KNOWING GOD BY NAME

Sharon Jaynes, Gwen Smith, Mary Southerland

This eight-week daily devotional is truly a faith adventure by these three women known as Girlfriends in God.  They work together with the single purpose of increasing the reader’s faith by delving into forty names of God that are used in Scripture.

Each devotional begins with a Scripture that includes one of the names of God.  A down-to-earth example in real life is used to explain that particular name of God.  Then the event in Scripture where that name of God is used is discussed.  Each devotional is written by one of these women.  After five daily devotionals, a section called “Now It’s Your Turn” is used for the sixth day.  This section is a review of the names, reflections that apply personally, and Scripture studies with room for journaling.

These devotions will strengthen your faith and cause you to have a deeper realization of the many aspects of our great and awesome God.  I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. 

HIDDEN IN MY HEART - 3

HIDDEN IN MY HEART – 3

As we continue to develop this thirst for God and His Word, may we make sure that we are not part of this famine of which Amos speaks in Amos 8:11.  It seems that our country has come to the place of a famine for hearing the words of the Lord.  It is just foolishness to those in the world that do not take it as Truth or are just nonchalant about it.  1 Cor.1:18    Nothing could be more important to us.  It would be much better to be known as the Thessalonians were in 1 Thess.2:13. 

All of us have something that is precious to us.  It may be a picture, a letter, maybe an antique coin.  We can’t take those with us!  What could be more precious than something eternal?  When we think of the Word of God being written over almost 1500 years by 40 authors with no disagreement but perfectly joined together into our Bible, nothing could be more valuable and profitable to us concerning eternity.    Heb.1:1-3    This involves our life now.  Phil.2:16   God inspired it all.  2 Tim.3:16   He did so with a plan.  Let us have a plan for our  study.

Sometimes it is difficult to get into a mindset for study.  Gospel music might help but don’t get so involved with the words if it plays while studying or it will distract you.  A devotional book might be of value but don’t think that that is your Bible study.  Nothing takes the place of the Words of our Lord.

Prayer comes first.  God is pleased when we put Him first. Col.3:2    One way we do this is by studying His Word.  He will help us.  Ps.121:2   God will help us focus.  He will help our understanding.  Ask God for His help.

Here is a short list of ideas for study:  Many Bibles have a plan where you read a portion of the O.T. and then a portion of the N.T.  You might want to concentrate on a portion of the N.T. with a Psalm or Proverb included.  Studying one book is a very worthy study.  Another type of study would be to take a word, such as one of the fruit of the Spirit, and look up many Scriptures that would connect with that word.  You might want to take one of the men or women of faith and study their lives.

Many Bibles give an introduction to a book that includes the background.  That is profitable to read.  It is important to remember that any introduction or notes relating to verses for aid in understanding are written by man and not inspired by God.  Be like the Bereans. Search the Scriptures to see if those things are so.  Acts 17:11   It is easy to get tied up in historical fact, rote learning, etc., that we forget the application to our lives.  Col.3:16   We want the Word of Christ to richly dwell within you.

Here are some of the tools for study that may be in your Bible.  Cross-references are in many Bibles.  It is either down the center of the page or across the bottom of the page.  It will give the Scripture by number and then list a few other Scriptures that pertain to the same subject.  It has often been said that the Scripture interprets itself with other Scriptures.  A deep study will reference these Scriptures in your cross-reference.

Another important tool that is within many Bibles is the concordance.  It is usually in the far back after Revelation.  It lists words in the Bible alphabetically.  Under each word are Scriptures that contain that word.  Some will apply to your study and some will not.  However, it is worth the effort to look them up.  As you do so, you will find yourself becoming more familiar with the arrangement of the books of the Bible.  This is important for you to learn as you study and will greatly ease your search.

Some Bibles will have an outline of a book inserted before the actual Scripture.  This may be helpful as a birds-eye view of the book.  Maps found in the back of your Bible or possibly throughout give you a more visual way of looking at the Scripture.  This would be of particular value in following the life of Paul, Jesus, or the Israelites.

You may not have commentaries.  They are usually large and sometimes multi-volumes.  They are written by man—not inspired by God. Be careful with these as they may contain false doctrine.  One little book that is inexpensive and contains a world of information is Halley’s Bible Handbook.  It would be helpful in many ways with your study and can be trusted.

An important tool is a personal notebook.  To be sure you are focusing on a particular verse, take notes on it.  What does this mean for me?  Write it out in your own words.  Maybe you want a section of your notebook that you list important Scriptures that apply to your life.  You may want to copy them out so you can go back and refer to them often to put them in your heart.

One way to saturate your heart with a passage is to read (study) it every day for a week until it is part of you.  Don’t be in a hurry.  It is more important that you are feeding your heart with God’s Word and letting it change your life than to cover a certain portion in a certain time.  Isa.40:8

  

HIDDEN IN MY HEART - 2

HIDDEN IN MY HEART – 2

I realize these few lessons may be elementary to many followers.  It is much needed for my Bible class.  Perhaps you may find it useful to use for a class that you teach.

Do we awake in the morning; put our feet on the floor and then are thirsty for Jesus?  Does that sound strange to you?  David indicated his thirst for the Lord in Ps.42:1.  Jesus told us that we would be filled if we hunger and thirst after righteousness which is found from Scripture.  Matt.5:6   Perhaps getting up would not be such a drag if we truly were asking the Lord that we might be pleasing to Him that day.  Maybe we could even pray that we might be His instrument that day.  Rom.6:13   That hunger can be fed by the Word of God.  Matt.4:4

Obstacles to accomplish this are different for each one of us.  Perhaps we have many obligations with family or other people around us.  Of course there are always many things we need to do.  Satan provides all kinds of reasons or maybe we should say excuses to keep us from feeding on the Word of God. These temptations are common to man.  You are not alone; but we need to be overcomers. 1 Jhn.5:4   When we overcome by faith, we are not doing it ourselves.  We pray with faith that God will help us. Matt.21:22   We can overcome with eager determination and God’s help.  Habits can be bad but habits can also be good and productive.  Feeding on the Word of God and hiding it in our heart is a habit we need and that we should want to form.  It takes desire and determination with zeal.

Probably the first consideration would be the time of day.  Ps.88:13   Here we find David praying in the morning.  While some have a mind much clearer in the morning, others would find other times more profitable.  If we do not choose the first thing in the morning, it is easy to let the events of the day to push out our Bible study time and then the day is gone.  One lady with a baby was always up in the night with it.  She had her Bible already open and beside the chair where she would hold the baby.  She was ready to drink in the Word of God.  It may mean—get up earlier!  Would that be too much to ask, for the Lord that gave His life for you?  So plan for a good time you can be alone with God without distractions.  Schedule that time as you would schedule a doctor’s appointment.  That time is saved for your Lord.  That becomes a habit.  Eph.5:15,16   Our time is important to God.

Where can you study the best?  Find a place that is comfortable but where you can lay out the tools you will need for a real study.  Yes, you may need more than just your Bible to get the most out of your study.  You are not going to be lounging.  You will really be studying.  To grow in Christ, you want to be a student of God’s Word.  2 Tim.2:15   Paul was convinced that the Roman Christians were filled with knowledge.  This was not a worldly knowledge but spiritual knowledge of Scripture.  Rom.15:14   The purpose of our study is to grow in knowledge of the Word.

Now that you have decided on a time and place, it is absolutely necessary to be ready to concentrate on what you are doing.  This may sound foolish but first of all, our minds have a tendency to wander.  There is also a matter of comprehension.  If you read a verse and someone should ask you, “What did you just read?” could you tell them?  Now if someone told you something about someone, you might even remember the next day.  You remember a birthday, part of your grocery list, who is sick, etc.  You understood, thought about it, and were able to absorb it.  The same has to happen when we read Scripture.  We have our “thinking-cap” on.  We think about it, understand it as much as we can, absorb it into our minds and hearts and make the information or Scripture ours.  Heb.10:16   If this doesn’t happen, we have just gone through a routine.  It has not changed us nor has it helped us grow in Christ.  We need to pray that the Lord will help us before we start, but we have to be ready to help ourselves, too.  The Bible is powerful.  Heb.4:12   If we are really concentrating, the Bible can bring us joy, comfort, convict us, teach us, guide us, solve problems, and literally change our lives.  Be able to say what you just read—even to yourself.  Our glasses help us focus with our eyes.  Our mind must focus on the Scripture as we read.

Is your Bible one that is from several hundred years ago in its translation?  It may be difficult to understand if it came over with the Mayflower.  The King James is very good but the language is old.  Newer versions can be obtained cheaply.  Check with someone you trust as to what version might be best for you.  If someone is going to get a gift for you, would a new shirt or an understandable Bible be a better request. This could make a big difference in your understanding.  Rom.10:8

Now we have a time, place, our “thinking-caps” on, and an understandable Bible on hand.  We must have a plan for our study to be the most valuable.  You have a plan when you do a craft, cook a meal, or build something.  It is haphazard to put the Bible in front of you and just open it to where it falls.  Even though it is all inspired by God, the Bible is written with a plan.  2 Tim.3:16   It did not come by man.  2 Pet.1:21

The Old Testament of 39 books is a history of beginnings and of the Jewish people who were the ones through whom the Son of God, Jesus, would come.  It is our schoolmaster or tutor (teacher).  Gal.3:24   The New Testament with 27 books tells us of Jesus, His church, and the way we should live in Christ to the end of days.  One plan might include a portion of the O.T. and a portion of the N.T.  Another plan might begin with one of the gospels about Jesus (Matt., Mk., Lk., Jhn.).  Then go on with the history of the church in Acts and so on, but Read Your Bible!       

HIDDEN IN MY HEART - 1

HIDDEN IN MY HEART – 1

It is probably safe to say that everyone has something hidden in their heart.  Perhaps it is a childhood memory that brings a warm feeling to your heart.  It could be an accomplishment that was completed with a feeling of pride.  A time of marriage to your best friend, the awesome entrance into the world of a child’s birth. Sickness and death bring memories that we never forget.  So what is hidden in the recesses of your heart?

David gives us a jewel to hide in our heart – Thy Word. Then he provides the reason.  That I might not sin against You.  Ps.119:11   Oh, how we need to have those precious Scriptures deeply embedded in our hearts.  Jesus gave us such an example when Satan came to tempt Him.  Yes, Jesus, even though the Son of God but also a man such as we are, had Scripture deep within His heart.  With each temptation, Jesus had a Scripture ready for Satan. 

Could you even accomplish a forty-day fast?  Then a human statement was made, “He then became hungry.”  Satan knew just like Satan knows when we have a desire.  Jesus counteracted with a Scripture.  Matt.4:4   Satan failed with that one but he was ready with another temptation. 

Do you realize that this prince of the power of the air actually took the Man-Jesus high up to the pinnacle of the temple.  Remarkable!  The temptation: IF you are the Son of God--jump.  Then Satan quoted Scripture.  Remember, Satan can disguise himself as an angel of light and is full of deceit.  If Jesus had jumped, that would have gained awe from the masses that surrounded the temple.  Satan knew Jesus could call on angels to save Him and so did Jesus; but that was not the purpose of Jesus in coming to earth.  Lk.19:10   Again Jesus had an answer from the Scripture.  Matt.4:7  

Satan was not through with Jesus; just like Satan will keep prodding us to sin throughout our lives.  Satan wanted Jesus, the Son of God, to fall down and worship him.  He offered a great reward if Jesus would do that.  Satan offered Jesus all the kingdoms of the world and their glory.  Didn’t he know he was offering this to the One who created the world?  But this temptation was to the Man-Jesus.  Maybe it sounds good on first thought; however, Jesus knew better and was ready with Scripture.  Matt.4:10   God always has the right answers in His Word—never Satan.

Notice that Satan moved on to another temptation after Scripture was quoted.  We, too, can send him on his way with the name of Jesus and the Words of God that we have stowed in our heart.  Just because we are a Christian, those Scriptures are not automatically put into our heart.  Nothing of value is easy.  It takes work.

We are so inadequate when it comes to fighting temptation, gaining in righteousness, and working for the Lord.  The good news is we are not alone.  1 Cor.10:13   The temptations we have are common to man.  We can have support groups, for others are going through similar circumstances.  God has provided a way out if we but grasp it and hang on to it.  God will never leave us.  We must never leave Him.  He gives this promise to the people of God in the O.T.  Deut.31:6   The promise is given by Jesus in Matt.28:20.

Now my question is this:  How will you ever know if you are not hiding the Word in your heart?  We can just go on with what someone tells us but that is never as good as when we experience it ourselves and load it into our mind for keeps.  Ps.42:1  This has to be a real desire and not just an occasional “wish I could remember” or “that would be nice.”  We can develop a craving, a yearning to increase in our knowledge of God’s Word.  This is a necessity.

Paul mentions that he is convinced that the Roman Christians are full of goodness and knowledge.  Rom.15:14   This isn’t knowledge of cooking, building, politics.  No, this is knowledge of the Scriptures.  Peter wanted the Christians to grow in grace (favor) and knowledge of the Lord.  2 Pet.3:18   In listing several things that Peter encouraged the Christians to use diligence (persistence) in obtaining, knowledge was one of them.  2 Pet.1:5   We can’t be haphazard in gaining knowledge.

Moses told the Israelites that obeying God was not too difficult.  It was in their mouth and in their heart.  Deut.30:11-14   You can’t obey if you don’t know and you can’t know unless you study.  A question is asked in Ps.119:9.  Although it mentions the young, it is true for all.  We stay on the path of purity and righteousness by living according to the Word. 

“Neglect” is a big word in Ps.119:16.  If a person really loves the Word, he will not neglect it, no matter what we might say.  David used Scripture as a lamp to light his way (Ps.119:105) so he would obey God’s Word.  Ps.119:101  

Can we say with Paul as he says in Rom.7:22?  Now is the time spoken of in Heb.10:16.  It is up to each individual.  Some ideas to help will be forthcoming.  Meanwhile, read you Bible every day.

THE WOMEN OF CHRISTMAS Book Review

THE WOMEN OF CHRISTMAS

Liz Curtis Higgs

Liz Curtis Higgs has taken the sparse amount of information on Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist, Mary, the mother of our Lord Jesus, and Anna, the prophetess and widow who remained at the temple for years, and has woven into this book the real heart of these three women.

Higgs included facts of the time and culture for a clearer understanding of the events.  Beyond the facts, the emotions and feelings that enveloped the lives of these three women was delicately and passionately presented in a realistic way, phrase by phrase of the Scripture.

The lives of Zechariah, Elizabeth’s husband, Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, and Simeon were also covered with their fears, wonder, and praise as they entered the picture of these three women of Christmas.

This book will give you a fresh picture of the events surrounding this period of time as you read and meditate upon the Scripture rather than just scanning it as something you already know with great familiarity.  I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. 

LIFE OF VICTORY - 10

LIFE OF VICTORY – 10

It would be rare for someone to enter a time of conflict and want to lose. Victory indicates a conflict.  It isn’t long after we come into this world as a babe that we begin to make choices.  Do I do what mommy says or do I do what I want to do.  God instilled in us the right to make choices and not to be a robot.  Choosing what is “right” is the beginning of righteousness.  Obedience is a grand part of that “right.”  First it is obedience to parents.  Then it gradually grows into a choice between “self”, what “I” want or “right” in culture or “right” in God’s eyes.  We become accountable as to what we choose.  We are accountable to the public law officials; we may be accountable to friends in a certain culture or of the most importance, we all are accountable to our Maker, the Lord God.  Joshua gave a choice to the Israelites and then he gave his choice.  Josh.24:15   David also gave a good choice in Ps.84:10. 

So we find that the conflict over which we want victory lies in our choices.  To whom do we submit?  To whom do we obey?  We know the answer but the problem comes when we choose to do otherwise.  Every choice has a consequence.  Both Adam and Eve made a bad choice and the consequences changed the world forever.  Sin came into the world and God cannot be where sin is; therefore they were removed from the Garden and could no longer walk with God.  Isa.59:2   When we sin, we separate ourselves from God except for the blood of Jesus through which we have salvation.  Eph.1:7

With this series of lessons we have assumed that a person has already made the choice to become a Christian.  We have submitted to our Lord to be born again and begin a new life as we leave the choices of the past behind.  Eph.4:24; Col.3:10   It is only through the mercy and grace of God that this is possible.  We need to realize this blessing and be forever thankful for it.  Titus 3:5-7

As a Christian, do we still have conflict over which we need to obtain victory?  The answer is “Definitely.”  If we have not chosen to have Jesus as our Savior and our Shepherd to follow, Satan already has us.  When we have entered our “new life,” Satan wants us back and will do whatever is necessary to retrieve us as his slave.  Job 1:7; 1 Pet.5:8   More often than not, we do not perceive the reality of this fact.  If we don’t understand the conflict, how can we achieve the victory over it?

Our conflict is with the prince of the power of the air – Satan.  Eph.2:2   Paul emphasizes the fact that this conflict is not against flesh and blood.  He then explains what he means in Eph.6:12.  We must realize that Satan disguises himself as an angel of light – something really good.  2 Cor.11:14,15   We must make ourselves aware of his schemes in order to have this victory.  2 Cor.2:11   As a Christian, we have not been left without a way to overcome these schemes.  Eph.6:11

The armor of God defends us in Truth (1 Jhn.3:18; Eph.4:15), righteousness (2 Cor.5:21), peace (Rom.5:1; Rom.14:19), faith (Gal.2:20; Heb.11:6); salvation (Heb.5:9; 1 Thess.5:9); Word of God  (2 Tim.3:16; 2 Pet.1:20,21).

Our conflict with Satan comes in the form of temptation which is not sin in itself, but can become sin when we fall.  1 Cor.10:12   Too often we think we are so strong that we would never fall into sin.  That is pride.  We are all vulnerable.  We are all sinners.  Rom.3:23   It’s just that some have obeyed unto salvation and so have the covering of the blood of Christ upon them.  Heb.2:17  

We may think we are under greater temptation than others.  If we have the wrong companions, we may have more temptations.  If we don’t control our desires, we may have more temptations.  If we love the world, our temptations will be great and many.  1 Jhn.2:15   The next verse categorizes the types of temptations we have.  We are not alone in these.  1 Cor.10:13   Notice that they are common to man.  But a way of escape is provided.  We have to take it. 

We have to set our mind on the things that count in the end.  Col.3:2   As we are in conflict with Satan, remember Jesus words in Matt.10:28.  It is important that we do what David did.  Ps.119:11   Greater glory than we can imagine awaits us as Paul tells the Corinthians.  1 Cor.2:9    

We CAN live a life of victory.  1 Cor.15:57; 1 Jhn.5:4   May we do it!  

LIFE OF VICTORY - 9

LIFE OF VICTORY – 9

The last piece of our Christian armor is the sword.  Eph.6:17   Through the years, the sword has been used more than any other weapon.  No soldier would be without his sword.  This brings us to an important fact.  All of the other pieces of the armor have been to protect—defensive pieces.  The sword is the only piece of the Christian armor that is offensive—aggressive, making attack.  Not only is it offensive but it also defends the Christian against Satan.  Satan did not like the words of Jesus, “It is written,” when he was tempting Him in the wilderness.  David also found this true even though the entire Bible had not been written yet.  Ps.17:4   

To have a life of victory requires aggression or making attack against Satan and all of his attempts to keep us from God.  So what is this sword?  It is the Word of God, the Bible.  It is like the helmet of salvation, we have it within our grasp; however, we must have the knowledge of its contents for it to be useful.  We must also learn skills to use it.  2 Tim.2:15   Sitting on an end table may look nice but if it is not opened daily, of what value is it to us?

The Word of God not only keeps the Christian from falling to Satan’s temptations on the outside, but it kills those inward desires that would keep him from victory.  It can only happen with knowledge of the Word as we become more and more familiar with it in our daily study. 

It is with purpose that the sword was given last.  We must have put on Truth, righteousness, peace, faith, and salvation to use the Word of God properly.  The Bible is used in wrong ways by twisting the Scriptures, adding or taking away from God’s Word (Rev.22:18,19; Deut.12:32; Ecel.3:14; Prov.30:6), proving an argument by misuse, etc.  A sword needs to be used by someone that understands and respects its use.

The Word is something we can trust for we know it came from God.  2 Tim.3:16;  2 Pet.1:21   Our faith is built on the foundation given to us in God’s Word.  Eph.2:20   We are given God’s words by His Son.  Heb.1:1.2   We are taught by the Holy Spirit as spoken in 1 Cor.2:13 and not by a man.  Some will not endure Truth. 2 Tim.4:3

Satan is a spirit and so we must fight him with spiritual weapons.  The Word of God is the sword of the Spirit.  It is spiritual.  As a person becomes a Christian he receives the gift of the Holy Spirit.  With the Spirit within Him, he can wield the Word to overcome Satan.  1 Jhn.4:4

Paul’s life ended in chains as a prisoner under Nero and was about to be killed.  Yet he considered himself to have victory.  2 Tim.4:6-8   Satan would have considered himself to be the winner as he thought when Jesus was crucified.  Jesus’s earthly life was over but He went to be with God.  Acts 1:9,11   Paul’s earthly life was over but he went to Paradise.  He was the victor for Satan will be thrown into hell.  Matt.25:41

David recognized how God’s Word would keep him from affliction.  Ps.119:92   So many times we are troubled by what Satan throws at us, but we can take deep comfort from the Word of God.  Matt.11:28,29   We are given so much by God’s Word.  Comfort is given but we are “given to give.”  2 Cor.1:3,4   The Word of God not only brings us the path to salvation but equips us with what we need to work for Him.  2 Tim.3:15,17

How we need to thirst for the sword of the Spirit!  Matt.5:6   Where else would we find righteousness except from God’s Word.  David thirsted in Ps.63:1.  (The entire Psalm stirs the heart.)  Amos, inspired by God, warned of a time of famine, not of food but of hearing the Word of God.  Amos 8:11,12  

As we study Scripture, our lives are changed if our hearts are open to God’s Word.  We are warned of downfalls that might come because of Satan.  We usually think of bad companions being associated with teens; however, we all have to be careful of our close associations.  Do they help us be more spiritual and be a better person?  Prov.12:26; 1 Cor.15:33   Satan is delighted to destroy godly speech.  Matt.15:18; Matt.12:36,37; 1 Tim.5:13   Satan would love for us to conform to his world for if something is not godly and we cannot thank God for it, then it is of Satan’s world.  Rom.12:2; 1 Jhn.2:15  The things God hates would be loved by Satan  Prov.6:16-19   There are so many more warnings that could be mentioned.

Scripture guides our lives to be more pleasing to Jesus.  Don’t take part in things that might appear evil.  1 Thess.5:22   Live in peace and respect, even love, those that preach and teach you.  1 Thess.5:12,13   Be kind and forgiving.  Eph.4:32   Pray.  Phil.4:6,7   Set our mind (Be captive of thoughts.) on things above (spiritual).  Col.3:2   Again, this is only a beginning.  We could go on and on.

As we use the sword against Satan, it is comforting to know that God limits him with regard to our temptations.  1 Cor.10:13   The Bible is the sword to keep us from sinning.  Ps.119:11   The end of our lives is more important than the now.  Matt.10:28   We cannot imagine what awaits us if we stay true to God’s Word. 

1 Cor.2:9  

 

 

LIFE OF VICTORY - 8

LIFE OF VICTORY – 8

Four pieces of armor have been used up to this point.  These have been applied in a spiritual way to the Roman armor.  The body has been covered up to the head.  Now our head needs to be protected.  A lot has been made of concussions in recent years.  Our brain is so important to the rest of our body and is impacted by head trauma.

So it is to our spiritual head/brain.  Eph.6:17   The helmet is a defensive weapon as all of the previous ones have been.  We stand firm to make ourselves ready for the aggression of Satan but we do not cross the line and use weapons of Satan to fight back.  1 Pet.3:8,9   We have no weapon for self-revenge.  Bitter words cannot be used for those are weapons of Satan.  Our feet are shod with peace. 

Our armor is given to defend us in suffering and not to keep us from suffering.  Someone has said that they wished the gospel had provided armor to defend their bodies from danger and death rather than their souls from sin and Satan.  Jesus had something to say about this.  Who do we fear?  Matt.10:28   This is the purpose of our armor.

Our armor “suit” now needs to be completed with the fifth part—the helmet.  With a strong faith that shields us against the fiery darts of falseness and deceit that Satan uses against us, our mind (brain) is clear to recognize the grace provided for us in salvation.  We can’t work for our salvation and we certainly do not deserve it.  It is a gift graciously given to us through the blood of Jesus in His death and resurrection.  This gift is there but we must accept it.  Helmets are necessary in so many instances in life today.   Bicycles, motorcycles, skateboards, sports to mention a few.  Injuries and even death is reported when helmets have not been used.  Helmets may have been in possession, but they were not put on.  So it happens with our spiritual helmet of salvation—it is no good until it is “put on.”  1 Thess.5:8

Before Jesus was even born, Mary was told of His coming birth “because He shall save His people from their sins.”  Matt.1:21   During Jesus ministry, He recognized His purpose for coming to earth.  Matt.18:11   God sent His Son because He loved the people (all people) He had made.  Jhn.3:16   Since we are God’s because He made us, God certainly has the right to expect obedience from us.  Jhn.3:36; Heb.5:9 

God teaches us obedience through the examples of His people in the O.T.  They had fallen into slavery as we are overcome in slavery to sin.  Rom.3:23   He released them by leading them through the Red Sea and then gave them laws to follow as He wanted to lead them to the Promised Land. They refused to follow and grumbled consistently.  Finally God had had enough and all 20 years old and above died and were unable to even see the Promised Land. Num.14:26-30   God loves us but He expects us to love Him.  This is made evident by our obedience to Him.  1 Jhn.5:3   With love comes obedience.

God didn’t wait until we were “good” to give us a helmet of salvation.  Eph.2:4,5   We were still sinners when Christ died for us.  Rom.5:8   This helmet of salvation is a very expensive helmet—the price of the blood of God’s Son.  Tit.3:4-6    God had mercy on us and felt our need.  The love of our God is beyond anything we can ever imagine.  Rom.8:37-39

Our precious helmet of salvation can only be obtained through Jesus.  Acts 4:12   It is sad to think of those in the world that need Jesus and yet they think the word of the cross is just foolishness.  We know it to be the power of God.  1 Cor.1:18  

As we realize the love of God and the offering to us of this helmet of salvation, how do we obtain this gift so that we can put in on.  We are not left without instructions.  If a person truly wants salvation, belief is essential.  This is not just a consent but a true belief that will continue to action.  Matt.16:16; Rom.10:10   Our belief needs to be vocal.  We might say we believe but believe what?  Our belief should never be hidden. 

Another factor is important in order to put on this helmet of salvation—repentance.  Acts 17:30   As we learn about God, we realize that we have not obeyed Him.  In other words, we have sinned.  This causes a deep sorrow for what we have or have not done.  Repentance doesn’t stop there.  It is a turn about-face in humility to follow Jesus in an earnest attempt to please Him for the remainder of our life.  2 Cor.7:9,10

In the first gospel sermon delivered by Peter, we have several instructions put together.  Acts 2:38   Immersion is explained in Rom.6:4,6   It isn’t a matter of a cleansing of the flesh as noted in 1 Pet.3:20,21.  All of these actions put together to form a new birth.  Jhn.3:3,5   The desires of the old man are gone and now all things are new in Christ.  2 Cor.5:17  

With our helmet of salvation protecting our minds, our purpose in life takes on new meaning.  It now is to please the source of our salvation—Jesus.  Col.1:10; Heb.13:20,21     

  

LIFE OF VICTORY - 6

LIFE OF VICTORY – 6

All of us want a life of victory.  Victory over what?  Sin!  Jesus said (Jhn.16:33) “I have overcome the world.”  The world is full of unrighteousness or sin.  Satan is called the ruler of the world.  Jhn.12:31   He is also called the prince of the power of the air.  Eph.2:2   Two statements from Scripture help us to realize the truth and meaning of the above Scriptures.  Job 1:7   Satan is roaming the earth!  Satan is also seeking whom he may devour.  1 Pet.5:8   When we sin, we are giving in to the devil or Satan.  1 Jhn.3:8   We need a life of victory to overcome sin.  As Christians we have been given to power to be overcomers.  1 Jhn.4:4

To be victorious over an enemy, we must recognize the enemy and know as much about them as we can.  Eph.6:12   Our enemy is not flesh and blood although he may act through a human.  We do not take this seriously.  Satan is all over the world.  He is roaming the earth and seeking whom he may devour.  He isn’t walking along the sidewalk.  If we take comfort in Heb.1:14 in that we have ministering spirits that watch over us and the gift of the Holy Spirit that comforts, guides, and teaches us.  Jhn.14:26; Jhn.17:20, surely we ought to be able to understand the spirit of wickedness that watches for an opportunity to make us fall into sin.

So we must stand firm against the schemes of the devil.  Eph.6:11   We do this by putting on the complete armor of God with the strength of His might.  Eph.6:10   Up to this point we have protected our loins with Truth so we will not collapse.  Truth wraps around our mind and spirit.  Truth is the first essential of our armor.

Then came our breastplate of righteousness to protect our heart.  Our spiritual heart is our spiritual life.  We purpose in our heart to do or not to do.  God knows our heart.  This is our inner self.  Satan wants to change the purpose of our heart but we must be instruments of righteousness rather than of unrighteousness.  Rom.6:13   What an encouragement when we read in 1 Thess.3:13 that God will establish our hearts without blame when Jesus returns.

The covering of the feet was very important to the soldier in Paul’s day so the next piece of armor is our spiritual shoe.  Eph.6:15   The foot must be well shod to go over whatever obstacles may come.  If our feet give us pain, we won’t go far and we definitely will slow down any progress we might make.  What the foot is to the body, the will is to the soul.  Our will must be prepared ahead of time to conquer our enemy, Satan.  Our will must be prepared to move ahead to perform what God has given us the ability to do.  Our will is behind our actions.  Our will is to follow the will of God.  Rom.12:2   We must be ready—our spiritual shoes ready to move in whatever direction God guides us.  Tit.3:1   By our actions, men may take notice and be won to Jesus.  We were created for good works and God had a reason.  Eph.2:10   This does not mean we are saved by our good works but that we are expected to do them.  Tit.3:4,5   We must make preparation to move.  God doesn’t need pew sitters.  2 Tim.2:21

The gospel is the good news with which our preparation is made.  1 Cor.2:12,13   We have Jesus!  Our testimony of Jesus needs to be given to those whose eyes are blinded.  2 Cor.4:,4   We have a responsibility as we shod our feet with spiritual shoes to spread the good news.  Isa.52:7; Rom.10:15   The message of Jesus saves.  1 Tim.1:15   Ring it forth!  

Our peace is not of this world.  We have peace with God through Jesus.  Col.3:15  Jesus gives us peace.  Jhn.14:27   Our peace comes by the blood of Jesus.  Col.1:20   It is important that we seek peace.  2 Tim.2:22   Jesus wants us to be at peace with one another.  Mk.9:50   It is difficult if not impossible for a person to grow spiritually if they live in conflict with others.  Some cause conflict with others by always having a better way to do things or “what they should have done.”  God alone knows hearts.  We have too much time on our hands so we use it to solve problems of other people rather than developing our own spiritual life.  God will take care of “them” in His own time and His own way.

We have now added to our armor the feet shod with the gospel of peace that we may move forward with good works and giving our testimony of Jesus with a life that lives in peace.  Feet provide action and mobility.  Let us not be satisfied to do nothing.  As the song says, “We’ll work till Jesus comes.”

With our loins girdled in Truth, our heart covered with breastplate of righteousness, and now our feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace, may our hearts and minds be guarded in peace with Jesus.  Phil.4:7

     

    

     

LIFE OF VICTORY - 7

LIFE OF VICTORY – 7

Oh that we could all live a life of victory over sin and Satan!  Such schemes Satan has against us!  It is important for us to remember that he appears as an angel of light.  2 Cor.11:14   If Satan appeared as some kind of ogre, we would probably have no temptation to follow him.  He knows that.  He knows how to disguise himself into something that looks good on the surface.  Because of this, we become deceived.

God also is aware of the schemes of Satan so He has provided an armor for us to be able to stand firm against these schemes.  Eph.6:11   The armor is provided but we are told to put it on.  This is our responsibility.  As Paul wrote to the Ephesians regarding this armor, he was well guarded by soldiers wearing an armor.  With this in mind, he related our spiritual armor in terms of the Roman armor.

So far we have seen the loins girded with Truth.  Without Truth, we will collapse.  Our spiritual loins are the loins of our mind and spirit.  1 Pet.1:13   As we think, so are we.  Prov.23:7   How important it is for us to gird our minds and keep them captive to the will of God.  2 Tim.2:26; 2 Cor.10:5 

Our heart is covered with the breastplate of righteousness.  Where is our love?  Our spiritual heart is our spiritual life.  We love God with our whole being and so we want to do what is right to please Him.  That shows our love.  This is what promotes our will—our want.  Our will comes from our inner self and develops our purpose which conforms with God’s purpose for us.  2 Cor.10:3   The idea of pleasing men is far from us as we want to do what is right to please God.  Eph.6:6

Our feet are shod with spiritual shoes to provide mobility as we move forward to serve (Eph.2:10) and further the spreading of the gospel which provide peace with God for those who are being saved.  Col.1:20   Our feet shod with spiritual shoes are important.  Isa.52:7

Eph.6:16   The above is not the end of our armor.  Paul says in addition to all of this, ( Some versions say above all) we need a spiritual shield.  Even with the girdle about the loins, the breastplate, and the shoes, a shield was of utmost importance to the soldier.  There were always small places that arrows could attack the body.  So it is with our spiritual armor.  As well as we might think we are protected, Satan knows those places in our life where he can make us fall if our spiritual shield is not in place.   Our shield is our faith.

There is a faith that is no more than consent.  The devils knew and admitted but never changed.  Jam.2:19   Some have a faith with excitement but it doesn’t last.  Matt.13:21   Then there is a faith that is so lasting and real that John gives the victory to him before the fight is over.  1 Jhn.2:13; 1Jhn.5:4   This is a faith that believes with all the heart.  Acts 8:37; Rom.10:10

We not only have to have a faith in Jesus but we must have a faith in the blood of Jesus that was for our forgiveness.  Rom.3:25   Faith is where we begin our road to salvation.  Our obedience is useless without faith.  Heb.5:8,9   But when we have faith, then our obedience becomes necessary to obtain our salvation.  It isn’t just a temporary faith even then.  Our faith and obedience must continue until death.  Rev.2:10

We cannot please God without faith.  Heb.11:6   The importance and outcome of our faith is so richly expressed in 1 Pet.1:7-9.  It is by faith we are declared righteous.  Rom.5:1   To be justified means to be declared righteous or right.  In this way through our faith we can have peace with God.  Rom.4:25; 1 Cor.6:11  

Our faith makes a difference in our prayers.  Jam.1:6,7; Mk.11:24   We need to come humbly before God in faith.  He has given many various gifts to us but the measure of faith is the baseline for His gifts.  Rom.12:3  

Faith is the shield which protects us against Satan in our new life.  May we live by that faith in Jesus.  Gal.2:20                       

FINDING GOD'S DIRECTION - Hastings Rally

FINDING GOD’S DIRECTION

Hasting Ladies’ Rally-2013

Marilyn Barber

www.biblelessonsbymarilyn.blogspot.com

Who would ever say that they have not sought God’s direction in life’s problems?  Probably no one who is a Christian.  We want to look at several aspects of this subject by going to God’s Word.

We are not here on earth because of our choosing.  God created us, loves us, and wants our fellowship but since we belong to Him, He wants our obedience and worship.  1 Jhn.3:1   If you grew up with a loving father, you understand love with discipline.  As a mother, love and discipline go hand in hand as well.  It stands to reason that God desires to help us and direct us.  Jhn.1:12

In the O.T. God spoke directly to godly men as He conveyed His desires for them.  We remember how Noah, Abraham, and many others followed God as He actually spoke to them.  We also want to note Jonah, Achan, and Ananias (N.T.) in their failure to follows God’s leading.  Moses spoke to the children of Israel in Ex.19:4,5.  Notice the “if” in verse 5.  God has showered us with blessings innumerable.  Our obedience to Him is crucial.  How much do we hunger and thirst for righteousness?  Has my choice already been made and we are seeking God’s approval or does God’s approval come first.   Blessings or dire repercussions follow our choices.  God is in control.

As we study God’s direction, it is important that we realize that there is a continuum.  At one end some decisions are non-moral.  It does not matter if I choose to wear red or black today.  As this continuum moves to the left, the choices become more complicated and morality is involved.  Which job do I take?  A young person chooses one college over another.  How do I spend my time and money?  With which congregation do I fellowship?  Who do I marry?  Some of the choices today are extremely involved with morality—abortion and lesbian involvement as two examples.

God did not leave us without instructions.  Every decision must be made in the light of God’s Word.  Ps.119:105   Everything we need is found here.  2 Tim.3:16,17   God’s Word is powerful.  Heb.4:12   Jesus is the way through the Scriptures.  Jhn.14:6   Don’t just read—study.      

As Christians we many times fail to use the power of the Holy Spirit with which we’ve been gifted when we were baptized.  (Acts 2:38)  Too often we know the fact by rote but we don’t recognize the power that we have.  1 Jhn.4:4   We can pray for the gift of the Holy Spirit within us to be used for His glory.  Lk.11:13   We can expect to receive nudges in our choices.

So far we have God’s Word and the Holy Spirit.  How seriously and consistently do we pray for God’s direction with the decisions we face?  Think of your parent.  How often did you ask?  God knows what we need and what our choice should be.  Our prayers indicate our trust and dependence on Him.  God talks to us through His Word but we talk to Him through our prayers.  A good relationship needs communication.  Prayer is a big part of our decisions.

We are part of an “instant” society.  We know what we want and we want it now!  God doesn’t work on our time.  Ps.31:15   Big decisions take time.  Ps.27:14   Waiting on the Lord may test our trust in Him.  It takes time to study, pray, consult Christian counseling, meditate, then consider.

Jam.1:5,6   Wisdom is our great need as we make decisions.  Don’t we all lack that?  If we ask for it, God will give it to us if we ask in faith without doubting.  At the end of the incident with the fig tree, Jesus also gave the same instruction.  Matt.21:22   Jesus living within us with His words is also important in receiving answers.  Jhn.15:7   Obedience is crucial to our receiving that for which we ask.  1 Jhn.3:22

Sometimes we ask for God’s direction but in reality we know what we want and do not really expect to follow God’s direction.  We may be hoping that God directs us in the way we want to go.  James addresses this problem in Jam.4:15.  Self gets in the way of God’s direction.  Jer.10:23   We may pray, but instead of waiting for God’s answer, we go ahead with our own answer.  Matt.26:41   Jesus asks us an important question in Lk.6:46.

It would be well to ponder a few questions as we seek God’s direction.  Will this bring glory to me or to God?  1 Cor.10:31   Is this decision something for which I can thank God?  1 Thess.5:18

After studying the Scripture and praying, would this be something that my Lord would say that I “am doing right.”  1 Pet.2:15   If doubt exists—don’t!  Rom.14:23   Does this decision show that my life is set apart (sanctified) for my Lord?  1 Thess.4:3   By this decision, is my life proving the good, acceptable, and perfect will of God?  Rom.12:2   Could I be causing someone to stumble by this decision?  1 Cor.8:13   Am I glorifying God with my body which is the temple of the Holy Spirit?  1 Cor.6:19,20   Does my life show godly contentment or am I constantly desiring more?  1 Tim.6:6   Is this a gift I am to use to glorify God?  1 Pet.4:10

We may know all of the answers, but where is our willingness?  Phil.2:13   The Word of God assures us of His willingness to help us and direct us.  Ps.25:9,12  We must be willing as well.  Jhn.7:17,18    Humility is important to follow.  We must acknowledge our Lord and He will make our paths straight.  Prov.3:6   David enjoins us with wise words in Ps.143:10   How we need the counsel of our Lord!  Ps.32:8; Prov.3:5

God will be with us.  Matt.28:20

The quality of our sincerity and desire to find God’s direction will be found in our hearts as we follow these Scriptures:

Set you minds on the things above, not on the things that are on earth.  Col.3:2

Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.  Matt.6:33

Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.  Col.3:17

Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men.  Col.3:23

Remember where we started.  We belong to the Lord so—making the most of your time, because the days are evil.  So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.  Eph.5:16 

           

     

LIFE OF VICTORY - 5

LIFE OF VICTORY – 5

The extreme importance of a Christian putting on the armor provided by our Lord and keeping it on for our entire life has been noted through Scripture.  We now need to know what this armor is in order to put it on.  The purpose of this armor is evident from Eph.6:11.  We are told to be strong in the strength, not of ourselves, but in the strength of the Lord.  Eph.6:10   Why is this strength so important?  What is this battle?  It is explained in Eph.6:12.  This isn’t some fairy tale or some Halloween story.  This is as real as real can get.  We are surrounded by Satan and his schemes so we must stay strong in the Lord’s might and the armor He gives us.

Truth is the first part of our armor.  Eph.6:14   The loins are the girdle of our mind and spirit.  1 Pet.1:13   The loins are the part of the body between the spine and the hip bone.  Our whole body depends on the loins to hold us up.  In speaking of Levi’s enemies, the shattering of the loins that they might not rise again in mentioned in Deut.33:11.  Our mind or thinking must be based on what is true or we will collapse. 

Jesus explained truth in Jhn. 18:37.  Upon hearing this explanation, Pilate asks the question, “What is truth?”  (vs. 38)  God is true.  1 Thess.1:9   God’s Word (Bible) is true.  Jhn.17:17; 2 Tim.3:16   Jesus is truth.  Jhn.14:6   Jesus was explaining to his disciples and said that those who believe in Him would know truth and be made free. (of sin)  Jhn.8:31,32   The Holy Spirit is called “the Spirit of truth.”  Jhn.14:17  

Our spiritual life will collapse if we believe false doctrine.  Gal.1:8; Eph.4:14,15; 2 Pet.2:1-3   A false teacher may be friendly, a good speaker, and very likeable but that does not make him right.  He may have been taught wrong.  Acts 5:29   If our loins are girded with truth, we will follow Scripture and not man’s idea.  We need to be like the Bereans in Acts 17:11.  Man’s teaching must follow the Truth.

The breastplate of righteousness is the next part of our armor. (v.14)  If a person is stabbed in the arm, he will probably survive; but if he is stabbed in the heart, survival is near to impossible.  Our spiritual heart is our life.  Our heart involves a whole range of activities that go one in the inner self.  We become the person that our heart thinks upon.  Prov.23:7   Our decisions are made in our heart.  2 Cor.9:7   Although this is speaking of giving, the same is true with other decisions.  We purpose in our hearts to do or not to do. 

Job asks a question in Job 9:2.  We become righteous through our belief in Jesus.  Rom.3:22   A sincere belief follows with obedience.  Abraham was considered righteous—he obeyed.  We offer ourselves as instruments of righteousness.  Rom.6:13   As a child of God we must practice righteousness.  1 Jhn.3:7   To finally receive the righteousness of Jesus is the hope of a Christian.  Gal.5:5

The Lord knows our hearts.  Lk.9:47   God examines our hearts.  1 Thess.2:4   God knows whether we are performing a task for our own glory or for His glory.  God searches our hearts.  Rom.8:27   What a blessing to know we have the Holy Spirit to intercede for us.  In the letter to the church in Thyatira, God says He will search their hearts and minds and reward their deeds accordingly.  Rev.2:23   The Lord will establish our hearts in holiness and without blame.  What a blessing to be a child of God.  1 Thess.3:13   We have such a tendency to think we can examine the heart of a brother.  No, God will do that in His time.  He, alone, can examine our motives and then the praise that is due will come from Him.  1 Cor.4:5

God works in our hearts.  He opened Lydia’s heart.  Acts 16:14   The Lord gives us the Holy Spirit in our hearts as a seal and pledge.  2 Cor.1:22; Gal.4:6   Christ must be set aside (sanctified) as the Lord of our hearts.  1 Pet.3:15   To be a Lord means that we let Him be the master of our heart. 

Righteousness is the covering that we need over our heart.  This means life or death of our spiritual live.  We must take heed that our hearts are not hardened.  Heb.3:12,13   We need never think that we alone can be righteous.  We take on the righteousness of Jesus as He takes on our sin.  2 Cor.5:21

             

LIFE OF VICTORY - 4

We have studied the numerous ways Satan tries to derail our faith; therefore we must be on the alert at all times.  Paul reminded the Ephesians that they had been given armor to withstand Satan.  Eph.6:11   Think of a soldier going into battle with a fake armor.  It looked like it would be able to protect but the soldier thought the real one might be too heavy.  The protection would be nil.  That is the way with our Christian armor.  It cannot be just a visible façade to please men.  It must be real to please our Lord and it must be from the heart.  Eph.6:6

The Lord is our strength.  Without Him, we can do nothing.  Jhn.15:5   Paul indicated this in Phil.4:13.  At the time of writing this, he was chained to two soldiers, one on either side of him.  He also well knew what the armor of a soldier was.  The Lord is the one who will lead us in our warfare against Satan.  Isa.42:13  

Isaiah speaks of the armor of God.  Isa.59:17   We must realize that this armor is very important for the Christian to overcome Satan in the battle he wages.  Paul mentions it in part in 1 Thess.5:8.  The full armor is expressed more completely in Eph.6.

We are to put on or “clothe ourselves” with this full armor as we read in Eph.6:11.  This is similar to the new self which Paul speaks of in Eph.4:24.  To live in this new self we need a full armor to throw off the former things of the world and keep Satan at bay so that we will not become embroiled in the former sins again and then take our stand against the devices of Satan.  Rom.13:14   We don’t supply a moral characteristic in place of an immoral one.  When we put on the Lord, we are changed and can fight the enemy.

A soldier is not a soldier on his own.  He has been enlisted as a soldier for somebody, some nation, or some cause.  Paul explained to Timothy that he was a soldier of Jesus.  2 Tim.2:3   We have to fight the good fight of faith.  1 Tim.6:12   This is not the kind of fight that men of the world pursue for in the preceding verse he gives instruction important in this fight.  1 Tim.6:11   This fight is against the devices that Satan uses against God and His will.  2 Cor.10:3-5   Satan wants control of our minds and hearts.

We do not have to shop for our armor.  We do not have to wonder what to get nor what kind nor even how much it might cost.  When we are in Christ, our armor is provided by God.  Eph.2:12   If we are not a child of God, we have to fight our battles alone.  Who could stand against the wiles of the devil forever?  However, as a child of God, God provides.  Even though Satan is roaming the earth (Job 1:7) and seeking whom he may devour (1 Pet.5:8), he still must ask permission from God to touch His child.  Job 1:12   Praise the Lord that we do have a hedge around us but it is up to us to stay within that hedge.  Job 1:10

We must be aware of copies of the master armor.  They are cheap and insufficient.  Check to be sure it glorifies God and defends us against the power of Satan.  The whole armor sufficiently covers every spot through which an evil dart could invade.  Satan may attempt to war against our flesh but find it is well defended so he makes tracks to destroy our mental judgment.  Isa.55:8   Our enemy is on every side that we tread.  2 Cor.6:7   We are navigating through many traps that Satan sets for us.  Heb.12:1   

God designed each part of the armor for a special purpose.  The heart cannot be covered with a helmet, etc.  If one part is left unarmored, then the life of the whole may be drained to death.  We know this is true with blood. 

The armor is not just for one battle and then we can take it off.  Our armor must be kept on our entire life on this earth.  Satan is always ready for us if we put our armor down.  Jesus gives a command in Lk.12:35.  We must always be ready.  God is always ready for us.  Ps.34:15