Fear Introduced to Salvation

Fear Introduced to Salvation

Exodus 14: ¹⁰ And when Pharaoh drew near, the children of Israel lifted their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians marched after them. So they were very afraid, and the children of Israel cried out to the Lord. ¹¹ Then they said to Moses, “Because there were no graves in Egypt, have you taken us away to die in the wilderness? Why have you so dealt with us, to bring us up out of Egypt? ¹² Is this not the word that we told you in Egypt, saying, ‘Let us alone that we may serve the Egyptians’? For it would have been better for us to serve the Egyptians than that we should die in the wilderness.”

 

¹³ And Moses said to the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will accomplish for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall see again no more forever. ¹⁴ The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.”

 

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When the millions of people saw the hundreds of chariots coming in the distance, they panicked. First they cried out to the LORD. Then they turned to Moses and blamed him for bringing them out of Egypt. Moses calmly told the people to “Stand still.”

 

My Observations:

• The children of Israel had a slave mindset that kept them from dreaming, solving problems for themselves or fighting.
• The children of Israel wanted complacent, controlled pain versus facing the unknown with GOD.
• Moses did not rebuke the children of Israel for being afraid.

 

Before the plagues, Moses and Aaron showed the children of Israel what GOD was going to do to the Egyptians. They all believed and praised GOD. But when Pharaoh took away their straw and kept the quota of bricks, they complained about Moses and GOD’s desire to free them. Their expectations of what GOD was going to do were not being met.

 

After the plagues, they were driven out of Egypt. They left excited. But when Pharaoh pursued them, they immediately were filled with fear. Six hundred thousand men were afraid of six hundred men. Moses did not yell. He calmly told them to “Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord,.” He also said GOD would fight the battle and the problem would not happen again. GOD would take care of their fear.

 

Challenge

• Why does GOD remind Moses about the reaction of the children of Israel to Pharaoh’s pursuit?
• Have you ever blamed GOD for how he is delivering you?
• Can you stand still and see the salvation of the LORD that will happen today so you can hold your peace?

 

Prayer

Dear LORD, thank YOU for helping us slow down, sit down and lay down. GOD the battle is YOURS. Please fight the battle that tries to rob us of our peace. Please go before us as we place our fragile trust before YOUR throne. amen

Peaceful Decisions

Peaceful Decisions

Colossians 3: ¹⁵ The peace that Christ gives is to guide you in the decisions you make; for it is to this peace that God has called you together in the one body. And be thankful. 

 

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“You can stay with a demotion or leave with severance” were the strange options placed before me. My performance was impeccable, yet I had two bad options placed in front of me. My entire identity had been placed in that position. Something in me said “I will take you to better places.”

 

• I was at peace when I heard I could let go.
• I felt a sense of peace towards those who placed two bad decisions before me.
• I released the turmoil I had, in exchange for peace.

 

Paul provides advice for those in need of making hard decisions. Tumultuous times and difficult situations, robbed people of peace and bad decisions that would cause more turmoil were the only options. What would be the answer?

 

My Observations

• True peace can only come from GOD.
• JESUS wants me to make better decisions so HE gives me peace in the middle of the storm.
• GOD called me to have and provide peace along with others who seek HIS kingdom.

 

Harassed, worried, sleep deprived minds do not make good decisions. I mean, when I replay the trial I am going through over and over and over, I cannot rest. I think the worst is going to happen and I may make a “snap decision” that brings further regret. I may even start blaming others, which worsens the situation.

 

Decisions made for CHRIST brings peace. Sometimes a peaceful decision is not the most comfortable. It is based on following JESUS, which could be a more difficult road, laced with trials and accolades that are few and far between, if at all. I am grateful for this strange peace that provides me with HIS purpose.

 

Challenge

• Why do you think the writer speaks about “peace?”
• Have you ever had to make a hard decision that caused you to lose sleep or to spin, thinking about the situation over and over?
• Will you settle your mind and think on CHRIST who will gladly give you peace in all decisions by asking HIM for the direction you should take today?

Finding Peace

Finding Peace

Philippians 4: ⁶ Don't worry about anything, but in all your prayers ask God for what you need, always asking him with a thankful heart. ⁷ And God's peace, which is far beyond human understanding, will keep your hearts and minds safe in union with Christ Jesus.

 

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“Can I please have a name brand shoe?” was my request. After years of trying, I realized I was not going to get the fashionable items from my parents. Their hard earned money was used for bills, or at least that’s what they said. When I was old enough I got a job. I bought name brand shoes. “LORD, please don’t have it rain today” was my ask.

 

• I wanted people to see my new shoes.
• I did not want “my” shoes to get dirty from rain or dirty places.
• I was proud that I was finally able to buy shoes without the oppression of a budget.

 

Paul provides some quick, yet sage advice to contentment. He knew that living in this world would bring on temptations to have nice things. He also knew people would become discontent by not having these things. He suggested a much better way of thinking about things, namely “be thankful.”

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to be thankful for JESUS saving me.
• GOD wants me to be thankful for all that HE has brought me through.
• GOD wants me to be thankful for the people, places and things in my life so I can see that I am abundantly blessed.

 

Being thankful for people reduces rage over something he or she did. Also, being thankful for the places GOD has me in, opens my eyes to the ministry HE has given me to reap abundant rewards. When I am thankful for the old worn out thing, I reduce my being discontent.

 

GOD sees thankfulness as a sacred place. Kinda like an elevator reaching a floor. Once I reach the level of thankfulness, GOD says “Here, have peace.” HE then opens my mind and my heart to HIS safety that does not make sense to those who seek other people, places and things for their peace. I am grateful GOD reminds me that peace can be found by thankfulness of HIM.

 

Challenge

• What things does the writer suggest you pray for?
• Have you ever been discontent with the things you have?
• Have you ever received something and wanted something else that is similar, later?
• Will you be thankful for who you are, what you have, the people in your life, the things you have and where GOD has you , so you can reach HIS peace HE wants you to have today?

Leave with Peace

Leave with Peace

2 Corinthians 13: ¹¹ And now, my friends, good-bye! Strive for perfection; listen to my appeals; agree with one another; live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.

 

¹² Greet one another with the kiss of peace.

 

All of God's people send you their greetings.

 

¹³ The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

 

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As the argument escalated, I stormed out the room and slammed the door. This emotional theatrical outburst did not settle the argument at all. If anything, it ensued more rage on all parts.

 

• I was seeking to “win” the argument.
• I was seeking to “win” and someone else to “lose.”
• I was seeking to be “heard” while missing the opportunity of hearing.

 

Paul sends his farewell. In it, he emphasizes peace. He gives everyone the assurance that GOD is with them so peace can be obtained.

 

My Observations

• Peace can be a way of life that GOD wants me to strive for.
• Peace from GOD is something I can bring into opposing views.
• Peace of assurance is a gift I can give to anyone who needs CHRIST.

 

Leaving people with peace is a goal I did not know existed. I mean, it does not require that I acquiesce or be walked on, rather I look for opportunities to live peacefully together. Avoiding arguments is probably unhealthy and causes bitterness to fester.

 

GOD wants me to see that peace is a way of life and wants any bitter root to be given to HIM. HE also wants me to talk things out with one another so an “agreement” can happen. I can also provide assurance to those who are nervous, letting him or her know that JESUS provided grace, the HEAVENLY FATHER love and the HOLY SPIRIT fellowship. I am glad GOD gives me peace that many cannot understand.

 

Challenge

• Does peace jump out at you when reading this passage?
• Why do you think the writer emphasizes peace so much?
• What situations can you think of where you can diffuse the argument with peace?
• Will you accept the goal of living in assurance of the grace of JESUS, the love of GOD and the fellowship of the HOLY SPIRIT so you can give peace to many as a gift today?

Well Wishes

Well Wishes

2 Corinthians From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God's will, and from our brother Timothy—

To the church of God in Corinth, and to all God's people throughout Achaia:

² May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

 

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Not looking forward to being around this group of people, I thought of previous encounters that were uncomfortable. I remembered the negativity, so I braced myself, preparing for battle. It really ruined my day.

 

• I do not like confrontation.
• I do not like negative atmospheres.
• I do not like preparing for battles that seem endless.

 

Paul sent another letter to the Corinthians. This time he had help from Timothy as GOD spoke through their relationship. Paul mentions that it was GOD’s will that he became an apostle, not his. He was getting ready to provide further correction but starts off with an unusual method. He wishes “grace and peace.”

 

My Observations

• JESUS died for me so when HE was raised, HE could send the HOLY SPIRIT to give me grace and peace.
• The FATHER agreed to lose HIS one and only SON to save me and give me grace and peace.
• The HOLY SPIRIT agreed to live inside me, despising every moment I sin, yet begs for my forgiveness so I can have grace and peace.

 

A LOT has been given to me already. I mean GOD gave me HIS all. Yet sometimes, that is not enough. I say “Thanks for salvation, but where are my riches and fame?’ I may not say them in those words, but my actions could speak volumes each time I complain  about famous people or worry about finances.

 

GOD is GOD. HE alone is the provider of grace and peace. HE gave a specific way for me to have both, namely to accept HIS gift and believe in JESUS as the Savior. It doesn’t stop there. I also need to surrender the things I “think” I need and be thankful for what GOD provides. I am grateful GOD chose me when I would never choose HIM.

 

Challenge

• What is the tone of the writer?
• Do you think he cared for the people he wrote to?
• When you are ready to combat someone, do you “care” for that person?
• Will you change your mind about “those” people and stop making it easy to dislike someone who GOD wants you to love?

Good Example

Good Example

1 Corinthians 11:1 Imitate me, then, just as I imitate Christ.

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 Going through life on my own, I had to figure things out by myself. When someone in my life did the wrong thing, I would seek another source to learn how to do the “right thing. The problem with that approach is people kept doing the “wrong” thing and I ran out of options.

 

• Many times I needed a good example and could not find one.
• Many times I needed some guidance, but could not find a guide.
• Many times I needed help, but was left helpless to figure it out on my own.

 Paul makes a huge statement when he says “Imitate me, then, just as I imitate CHRIST.” One could be fooled into thinking he thought more highly of himself and he was trying to build a following because he had it all together. This is quite the opposite. He was pointing to CHRIST.

 

• GOD wants me to tell people “I have a messed up life” BUT JESUS made me whole.
• GOD wants me to say to people “I am broken BUT JESUS made me whole.”
• GOD wants me to speak to people about CHRIST versus pointing to my actions.

 Saying that I am good will never work. I mean, I’m not “good” because JESUS is the only one who is. My righteousness is like used toilet paper. BUT JESUS cleaned me up and made me an ambassador for HIM.

 

HE saw through my sin and died for me anyway. What makes this special is, HE did this without blame. HE simply loved me. HE gets excited when I tell people about HIM. I can say “Imitate me only when I imitate CHRIST.”

 

• Do you need an example of CHRIST?
• Are you looking for humans to be the perfect example?
• Will you stop waiting for humans to fail and see the times when they imitate CHRIST as their example?

Looking for Grace and Peace

 

Looking for Grace and Peace

1 Corinthians 1: From Paul, who was called by the will of God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus, and from our brother Sosthenes—

 

² To the church of God which is in Corinth, to all who are called to be God's holy people, who belong to him in union with Christ Jesus, together with all people everywhere who worship our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours:

 

³ May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace.

 

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Sleep eluded me as I felt the pressures of the pending deadline approaching. Day and night I worked but to no avail. I went to sleep, only to wake up thinking about work. I got up and satisfied the needs of the project. I arrived to work exhausted. I turned in the project, on time. “You misspelled some words” were the only comment.

 

• There have been times when I looked for peace after the turmoil.
• There have been times when I thought I could find peace through accomplishments and money.
• There have been times when I sought grace for mistakes I made.

 

Paul seemed to have a special tie to the people of Corinth. He mentioned Sosthenes, a Jewish leader who suffered a beating because he spoke about JESUS and agreed with Paul. Paul knew that those who were called would be ridiculed and persecuted by those who were supposed to be showing the love of GOD. He gives a solution to prepare those who are called.

 

• GOD wants me to seek grace by admitting I need a Savior.
• GOD wants me to seek peace from HIM alone.
• GOD wants me to confess to the FATHER that JESUS is my Savior so HE can send the HOLY SPIRIT to me, who in turn, brings me grace and peace.

 

Grace and peace will always elude me when I am not seeking it from the true source. Humans think a larger bank account or a certain brand of material things will bring peace. BUT GOD is the only source of grace and peace. HE withholds these precious implements from those who do not seek HIM.

 

GOD does something strange. HE pours out grace and peace to those who are called and who are worshipping our LORD JESUS CHRIST. While the world looks on with judgmental wrong labels, GOD gets excited to those who can mention the name of JESUS as their source of grace and peace. I gladly accept GOD’s grace and peace through JESUS who is my Savior.

 

• What do you think would bring you peace?
• Do you think a larger bank account or a better title or another material trinket will bring you peace?
• Have you taken inventory over your stuff to see if you have received grace and peace yet?
• Will you stop pursuing grace and peace “your” way and allow GOD to pour them out on you in abundance only when you surrender your life to JESUS today?

From Praise to Hope

 From Praise to Hope

Romans 15: ⁷ Accept one another, then, for the glory of God, as Christ has accepted you. ⁸ For I tell you that Christ's life of service was on behalf of the Jews, to show that God is faithful, to make his promises to their ancestors come true, ⁹ and to enable even the Gentiles to praise God for his mercy. As the scripture says,

 

“And so I will praise you among the Gentiles;
    I will sing praises to you.”
¹⁰ Again it says,
“Rejoice, Gentiles, with God's people!”
¹¹ And again,
“Praise the Lord, all Gentiles;
    praise him, all peoples!”
¹² And again, Isaiah says,
“A descendant of Jesse will appear;
    he will come to rule the Gentiles,
    and they will put their hope in him.”

 

¹³ May God, the source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace by means of your faith in him, so that your hope will continue to grow by the power of the Holy Spirit.

 

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“Let’s go on a bike hike” someone older said to us. Having only been out of the neighborhood a few times, I was excited to go on this adventure. We rode further than I had ever ridden in my life. We crossed the railroad tracks and the neighborhood looked different.

 

When we arrived at a park, the people called us by names of racial hatred. We were chased. I didn’t know much about prayer, but I started saying “Our FATHER…”

 

• There have been times when I just wanted to live together.
• There have been times when I just wanted to enjoy life together.
• There have been times when I just wanted to have peace, but could not find it because I was not accepted.

 

Paul’s plea was primarily to the Jews, but was universal in nature. He expressed something that is hard for humans, namely “accept one another.” But how? He then explains why do it. “For the glory of GOD, as CHRIST has accepted you.”

 

• GOD wants to show me that HE is faithful to make HIS promises come true.
• GOD wants to enable me to praise HIM for HIS mercy.
• GOD wants to be the source of my hope.

 

Praising GOD for HIS mercy is only the beginning of the relationship. I mean, when I confess I am in need of a Savior, JESUS accepts me, because HIS resurrection to life gave HIM all authority. Now that HE has accepted me, HE wants me to accept others, even those who do not look or act like me.

 

GOD then wants me to grow beyond confession. HE wants to fill me with joy and peace. But there is one caveat. I must place my faith in HIM. But what if my faith is small and wavering? HE has that covered by placing the HOLY SPIRIT in me. Now my “hope” will continue to grow and I can accept others as CHRIST accepted me.

• Is your hope small because you feel oppressed?
• Do you think there is no way out because of another group?
• Will you add “acceptance” to your heart and believe in JESUS so HE will provide the HOLY SPIRIT, who will grow you with HIS power today?

Peace Broken

 

Peace Broken

Acts 24: ¹⁷ “After an absence of several years, I came to Jerusalem to bring my people gifts for the poor and to present offerings. ¹⁸ I was ceremonially clean when they found me in the temple courts doing this. There was no crowd with me, nor was I involved in any disturbance. ¹⁹ But there are some Jews from the province of Asia, who ought to be here before you and bring charges if they have anything against me. ²⁰ Or these who are here should state what crime they found in me when I stood before the Sanhedrin— ²¹ unless it was this one thing I shouted as I stood in their presence: ‘It is concerning the resurrection of the dead that I am on trial before you today.’”

 

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After completing the project with success, I felt a sense of accomplishment. Everything I did in my power worked well. But there were some who did not like the accomplishment. For whatever reason, they wanted to tarnish the accomplishment with innuendoes and conjectures. I felt blamed versus being able to celebrate.

 

• There have been many times when people tried to rob me of peace.
• There have been many times when people stirred up the crowd, trying to deflect showing their faults.
• There have been many times when people were against me for doing something good.

 

Paul continues to explain why he was being blamed. He told the governor how he came into Jerusalem with peaceful actions to provide for the poor. He then explained how he knew the Law and observed them by being ceremonially clean. He asked that his accusers present evidence of wrong doing.

 

• GOD want me to seek HIS peace daily.
• GOD knows there will be people who will try to steal my peace.
• GOD gives me peace that surpasses all understanding.

 

Peace is a weapon that cannot be stolen. I mean, when someone brings me disturbing news or acts devious towards me, peace is there as a weapon against my foe. When JESUS tells me to “have peace” HE enables me to use peace in the middle of the storm.

 

Peace is a choice. When I realize GOD is in control or the difficult situation, I can then give it over to HIM, knowing HE has the best outcome. HE is always looking for me to be doing something better for HIM. The situation is only the catalyst for the next great adventure HE has for me. I am grateful GOD protects me and gives me peace.

 

• Is your peace broken by someone?
• Has someone cause you to worry or doubt?
• Will you use GOD’s peace as a weapon so you can be filled with HIS strength today?

Equipped with peace

Equipped with peace

John 20: ¹⁹ Then, the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in the midst, and said to them, “Peace be with you.” ²⁰ When He had said this, He showed them His hands and His side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord.

²¹ So Jesus said to them again, “Peace to you! As the Father has sent Me, I also send you.” ²² And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. ²³ If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.”

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Unsettled, I could not sleep. There were so many thing I had to worry about, I could not find rest. I mean, what am I to do about declining health, waning wealth, increased pressure and broken relationships? All attempts for me to “fix” them satisfactorily for all involved have failed.

• There have been many times when I have worried.
• There have been many times when I have been filled with fear about the future.
• There have been many times when I could not see any solution to the situations because there were too many.

Hidden from the Jews, the disciples did not know what to do next. JESUS, who performed all kinds of miracles, was dead in their minds. How can they protect themselves? JESUS appeared in the locked room and gave them some things that they needed.

• JESUS shows me HE cares for me by seeking me daily.
• JESUS gave me the HOLY SPIRIT so I do not have to rely on my own power.
• JESUS sends me out with a purpose to forgive those HE has forgiven.

Forgiveness brings peace. This can only come from the HOLY SPIRIT who reminds me about what JESUS did for me. I mean, if I am enraged or filled with fear or lost, the HOLY SPIRIT calms me down by saying “Peace to you.” This peace is actually equipment I can use versus something that is fleeting.

When I use peace as a tool, I can allow the situation to play itself out, knowing GOD has the best outcome already taken care of. The outcome may not be the one “I” choose, but I have noticed GOD’s choices are always the best choices. I receive HIS peace today.

• Are you losing sleep?
• Are you worried about the future?
• Will you stop dwelling in GOD’s realm, namely the future and focus on the present where HE gives you peace through the HOLY SPIRIT?

Strife Overcome

Strife Overcome

John 16: ²⁹ His disciples said to Him, “See, now You are speaking plainly, and using no figure of speech! ³⁰ Now we are sure that You know all things, and have no need that anyone should question You. By this we believe that You came forth from God.”

³¹ Jesus answered them, “Do you now believe? ³² Indeed the hour is coming, yes, has now come, that you will be scattered, each to his own, and will leave Me alone. And yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me. ³³ These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

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When I went to a certain neighborhood, I was chased out because of my race. When I got back into my neighborhood, I was chased home by a few thugs in an otherwise nice place. “Where can I go?” I wondered.

• There have been times when I searched for an accepting group and could not find it.
• There have been times when I felt unloved by enemies AND those who were supposed to love me.
• There have been times when I felt like no one cared.

The disciples said to JESUS “Now YOU speak plainly to us and we believe.” JESUS replied, “Now you believe?”, as if to say “What about all of the miracles?” JESUS did not scold them, rather HE warned them of things to come. “You will leave ME alone.” HE said.

• JESUS knows I have and will leave HIM when I seek “my” own way.
• JESUS still wants me to have peace so I can return to following HIS way.
• JESUS desires that I place my faith in HIM so I can “be of good cheer.”

Overcoming the world meant JESUS did not commit a single sin while HE was alive. HE fulfilled every prophecy and was now eligible to become the perfect sacrifice to pay off the tremendous debt to mankind. I cannot fathom how much pressure it was to know the sins of every human. I can’t even remember my own.

JESUS loved me so much that HE died for me. The FATHER loved me so much that HE allowed HIS only SON to die for me. The HOLY SPIRIT loved me so much that HE lives in me and watches me sin and begs for forgiveness for me. My strife is overcome.

• Are you feeling alone?
• Do you think on one cares about you?
• Will you turn your life over to JESUS so you will never be alone again?

I Know a Place

I Know a Place

John 14: “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. ² In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. ³ And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. ⁴ And where I go you know, and the way you know.”

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“You always know great places to eat” someone said to me. It was a compliment that I took to heart in my own small way. I put the restaurant’s name and what they were known for in my contact list. When someone would ask me for a restaurant, I could recommend the place and what they sold.

• It felt great being asked for advice.
• It felt like I was helping by providing information.
• It felt nice that I could guide people to some enjoyment.

JESUS explained that HE was going to be murdered. HE then said “Let not your heart be troubled.” HE was trying to assure HIS disciples that HE is allowing the murder to fulfil HIS p[purpose. HE was going to prepare a place for those who believe in HIM. HE knew of a great place.

• JESUS has risen and is preparing a place for me.
• JESUS is alive and will return for me when HE has prepared the last place for the last person to believe in HIM.
• JESUS told me I know the way.

“In my FATHER’s house are many mansions” shows me HE is concerned about my quality of life. But HE also knows the deceiver will try to fool me into thinking I can create a false heaven on this cursed earth.

Scratching and clawing for the “best” food, clothes, cars, houses and jobs, to sustain the above, can exhaust any time with GOD. JESUS knows a place that is right for me and that place is with HIM. HE wants my heart to seek the kingdom. I do know a place and it is with JESUS.

• What place are you seeking?
• Are you being led by GOD or by your own desires?
• Will you seek GOD was your swelling place so HE can fill your empty heart today?

Salt is Good for You

Mark 9: ⁴⁹ “For everyone will be seasoned with fire, and every sacrifice will be seasoned with salt. ⁵⁰ Salt is good, but if the salt loses its flavor, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another.”

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“Boring, sneaky and money hungry” were just a few labels I applied to church-goers. I mean they don’t help “me” when “I” need it. I left the church to strike it out on my own.

• There have been times when I labeled people quickly.
• There have been times when I was going through a trial I caused myself and wanted to blame others.
• There have been times when I looked at what was good as bad and what was bad for me as good.

I was no good to anyone during this period. Mad at the world, I had lost my perspective. JESUS warns everyone of losing perspective.

• GOD says to me “Salt is good.”
• GOD says to me “I will season you with fiery circumstances and preserve your sacrifices through them.”
• GOD says to me “Have peace with those who want to pick fights with you.”

Salt is a preservative. Salt stings. Sale penetrates. Salt adds flavor. JESUS says “Be salt” and I take it to mean preserve people and give them HIS messages with may sting me and them and penetrate our hearts with HIS goodness. My flavor on each relationship brings a taste that GOD has given me. Having salt in me helps me have peace with others.

• Have you given up on people?
• Have you given up period?
• Will you seek GOD and ask for restoration?
• Will you become HIS servant again and follow HIM with your heart?

Pep Talk

Mark 1: ⁹ At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. ¹⁰ Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water, he saw heaven being torn open and the Spirit descending on him like a dove. ¹¹ And a voice came from heaven: “You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.”

¹² At once the Spirit sent him out into the wilderness, ¹³ and he was in the wilderness forty days, being tempted^[g] by Satan. He was with the wild animals, and angels attended him.

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“What if I lose” ran through my mind as I got ready for my first race. I must have had the look of terror on my face because my teammates started talking to me. “You can do this!” they screamed. I shook off my nervous jitters and ran the race.

• Sometimes I need a pep talk.
• Sometimes I need to be encouraged.
• Sometimes I need someone to say “You can do it!”

JESUS publicly showed HIS ministry by being baptized. This ministry would be far more than healing people of their physical ailments. HE needed to die and be blamed for every sin that ever happened. The FATHER gave HIM a pep talk by saying “YOU are MY SON, whom I love; with YOU I AM well pleased.”

• JESUS knows I need words of comfort.
• JESUS knows I need words of encouragement.
• JESUS knows I need words to pick me up when I am down.

“LORD guide me” are my words to HIM and HE does just that on a daily basis. When those around me are petrified and cannot console me, HE is there to pick me up. HE knows how I am tempted because HE faced temptations of every kind, yet HE resisted. HE gave me the HOLY SPIRIT who speaks on my behalf.

JESUS went through great lengths to protect me. All I can do is praise HIM!

• Are you feeling down?
• Do you need a pep talk?
• Can you understand that JESUS loves you and is well pleased with you?”

End of the Trial

Matthew 28: ⁵ The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. ⁶ He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. ⁷ Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.”

⁸ So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples. ⁹ Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. ¹⁰ Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”

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“I finished!” was my exclamation as I put the last words on my last “final” test. College was grueling and I was now finished! I breathed a sigh of relief and was ready to tell everyone! I mean this was great news, well at least to me!

• When the trial is over I feel elated!
• When the trial is complete I feel alive!
• When the trial is over I feel so relieved that I want to tell everyone about coming through my trial!

“Will this trial ever finished?” was my thought on so many occasions. I mean some trials lasted a day, some weeks, some years, while others stretched into decades. When I was through the trial, however, I wanted everyone to know.

The trial was over for humanity. JESUS rose from the dead and the angel said “Do not be afraid.” When the women saw JESUS, HE said the same thing, “Do not be afraid”. Then HE said “Go tell…”

• JESUS wants me to tell people “HE rose from the grave just like HE said HE would.”
• JESUS wants me to tell others “HE loves you and cares deeply for you.”
• JESUS wants me to tell everyone I can “HE wants to be with you forever.”

Overcoming death itself solves the biggest fear of humanity. I don’t mean other fears won’t be larger than death at some point in our lives. I mean everyone will face their own mortality at some point and JESUS knew people would be afraid.

HE wants people to have comfort that HE overcame death and so can you and I. This is exciting news that I can tell many people and be happy about it!

• Are you going through a trial?
• Do you remember coming through any other trials in your life?
• Can you start practicing your excitement by praising GOD in spite of your situation?

Left Alone

Matthew 27: ⁴⁵ From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land. ⁴⁶ About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”).

⁴⁷ When some of those standing there heard this, they said, “He’s calling Elijah.”

⁴⁸ Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a staff, and offered it to Jesus to drink. ⁴⁹ The rest said, “Now leave him alone. Let’s see if Elijah comes to save him.”

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With a huge task at hand and no one around to help I cried out “LORD what!?” I meant to say to HIM, “Why did you bring me to this point only to drop me off in the middle of nowhere, alone!?”

• Sometimes I feel alone.
• Sometimes I feel forsaken.
• Sometimes I feel by myself only with onlookers instead of participants.

Even when I asked for help the onlookers would offer me something I did not need or they did not know how to help. Others, stood there and wanted to see if I would fall all the way down or if something truly amazing was going to happen.

JESUS faced the same thing. HE was on public display and blamed for every sin of every human that ever existed. Gawkers wanted to see more parlor tricks as they stared at a dying man. JESUS felt left alone.

• JESUS understands my loneliness so HE sent a comforter.
• JESUS knows how I feel when I cry out to HIM.
• JESUS cares tremendously when I feel left alone.

Sometimes I even go as far as JESUS did and blame the FATHER for leaving me alone. HE said “MY GOD, MY GOD, why have YOU forsaken ME?” I asked GOD the same question, especially when the pressures of the world are creeping around me.

GOD says to me “I will never leave you nor forsake you” and that gives me peace. The problems of the world melt away and I look for HIS deliverance in HIS time, HIS way.

• Do you feel alone?
• Do you feel like you have no one helping you?
• Can you turn to GOD and ask HIM to fill you up with HIS comfort today?

Eye of the Storm

Matthew 26: ¹⁷ On the first day of the Festival of Unleavened Bread, the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Where do you want us to make preparations for you to eat the Passover?”

¹⁸ He replied, “Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, ‘The Teacher says: My appointed time is near. I am going to celebrate the Passover with my disciples at your house.’” ¹⁹ So the disciples did as Jesus had directed them and prepared the Passover.

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After a very long day of intense political meetings I came home on edge. I mean how dare this group accuse my group of what they were saying! When I sat down on the couch, my kids came over to play with me. I had to put aside my brooding so I could focus on those around me.

• Sometimes I have a lot on my mind.
• Sometimes life dishes out blows that cause me to replay in my mind over and over what’s wrong.
• Sometimes the storm of life brings worries.

Hurricanes have turbulent sides but in the middle there is a calm area where everything seems fine, this is known as the “eye of the storm.” JESUS was in the eye of the storm. HE had been tempted, lied on and slandered on one side of the storm. HE would face beatings, mockery and death on the other side of the storm, but in the middle HE does something amazing.

• JESUS calmly says to me “Relax and I will sup with you.”
• JESUS calmly says to me “It may seem turbulent but there is peace in ME.”
• JESUS calmly says to me “I see what you are going through and I want to give you peace.”

In the middle of the storm, JESUS sends HIS disciples out to prepare for a nice calm dinner. HE said “MY appointed time is near” so calmly that the disciples missed the meaning. JESUS knew HE would be murdered and blamed for all of my sins, yet HE was calm. I am thankful for the eye of the storm.

• Are you in the middle of a storm?
• Are you highly disturbed?
• Can you do what JESUS did and calm down enough so you can calm others down?

In memory of those affected by Hurricane Harvey

No Surprise

Matthew 24: ³ As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately. “Tell us,” they said, “when will this happen, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the end of the age?”

⁴ Jesus answered: “Watch out that no one deceives you. ⁵ For many will come in my name, claiming, ‘I am the Messiah,’ and will deceive many. ⁶ You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. ⁷ Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. ⁸ All these are the beginning of birth pains.

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Walking down the crowded hallway, I felt excited. I was finally at my next school and this time things would be better. I was finally away from the thugs at my old school. When the day was over we were given warnings about the travel path home. “Take only these specific safe routes when walking through the neighborhood” they told us. “Aw man! This sounds worse than my old school!”

• At one time I panicked when I heard warnings.
• At one time I got nervous when I heard something could go wrong.
• At one time I was frightened at the mere sound of danger.

JESUS told HIS disciples what was to come and the future did not sound bright at all. There would be wars, famine and lying claims of the Messiah. Then HE said “such things must happen.”

• GOD wants me to know things will go wrong in my life but HE is there.
• GOD wants me to expect trouble so I will know to pray instead of falling apart.
• GOD wants me to be aware of my surroundings so I can rely on HIM instead of freezing out of fright.

Understanding that something could go wrong made me more prepared as I walked through the shadows of thugs. “Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil” enables me to go without fear through troubled times, not around them.

• Are you going through troubled times?
• Are you filled with fear?
• Can you ask GOD to lead you through the times, knowing these things have to happen?