But Fire Came Down

But Fire Came Down

Revelation 20: ⁷ After the thousand years are over, Satan will be set loose from his prison, ⁸ and he will go out to deceive the nations scattered over the whole world, that is, Gog and Magog. Satan will bring them all together for battle, as many as the grains of sand on the seashore. ⁹ They spread out over the earth and surrounded the camp of God's people and the city that he loves. But fire came down from heaven and destroyed them. ¹⁰ Then the Devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of fire and sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had already been thrown; and they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.

 

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After the final complaint, I had to do my duty. A member of my team had caused turmoil and was even speaking against me. I got the paperwork ready and fired him before he caused any more problems.

 

• This was the first person I had ever “fired.”
• I “fired” this person to protect the team.
• After “firing” this person, there was peace.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, was shown what happened to Satan after he was release from jail. Satan went out to deceive instead of repenting. He gathered a huge number of humans to fight against GOD and HIS people. They surrounded the camp of GOD’s people to take it over. But fire came down from heaven and destroyed them.

 

My Observations:

• When I rebel against GOD, it is a futile move.
• “Fire” from GOD is a permanent destruction.
• GOD protects HIS people and will one day say “That’s enough!”

 

Being separated from GOD forever is a terrible thing. I mean, I cannot imagine when GOD says, “I’ve had enough!” HE is extremely patient and slow to anger. BUT HE does get angry. HE sees every deception you and I have fallen for. HE does not blame anyone who believe they need a Savior from the consequence of deception.

 

JESUS is our Savior. HE knew we are like sheep that go astray. HE died for you and me and was raised from the dead. HE protects us from any harm and will remember HIS promise to us. I am thankful for GOD’s protection.

 

Challenge

• What is the tone of the writer when he mentions “But fire came down from heaven and destroyed them?”
• Have you ever had to fire someone or have been fired?
• Do you disagree with GOD’s methods to the point where you will have a futile fight against HIM?
• Will you give your life to CHRIST so HE can protect you?

No Pain

No Pain

Revelation 16: Then I heard a loud voice speaking from the temple to the seven angels: “Go and pour out the seven bowls of God's anger on the earth!”

 

² The first angel went and poured out his bowl on the earth. Terrible and painful sores appeared on those who had the mark of the beast and on those who had worshiped its image.

 

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During the bowling tournament, my bowling partner looked at my face and asked me if I was alright. I said I felt fine, but she said she watched a bump appear on my face right in front of her. After the tournament, I went back and took a very hot shower, thinking “maybe I had come in contact with something.”

 

• I had chicken pox for the second time.
• I had rashes and bumps appear all over my body.
• I itched from head to toe!

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, heard a loud voice, perhaps JESUS, speak. The seven angels who were given bowls of GOD’s anger began to pour them out on the earth. Anyone who had believed in the beast, who cursed GOD, would receive painful sores.

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s anger will cause those who oppose HIM, to experience terrible pain.
• Fear that will cause people to follow the beast, will also cause terrible pain.
• Trying to save my own life will cause me to lose it instead.

 

Giving up on GOD to try other methods of becoming whole is a terrible mistake. I mean, GOD reveals that life is HIS and so is death. HE alone knows the day and time HE has appointed for people to die or be caught up in the rapture.

 

Unfortunately there will be some who reject the living GOD to follow a human who curses HIM. They will focus on a leader who will seemingly unite the world and control commerce. Following this person will bring on GOD’s wrath that will not be able to be explained away. I am glad people who believe in JESUS will not experience the pain of HIS wrath.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer mention the volume of the voice?
• Have you ever experienced pain or sores?
• Will you consider your relationship with JESUS to avoid the end time wrath, even if you are experiencing pain right now?

Anger Soup

Anger Soup

Revelation 15: ⁵ After this I saw the temple in heaven open, with the Sacred Tent in it. ⁶ The seven angels who had the seven plagues came out of the temple, dressed in clean shining linen and with gold bands tied around their chests. ⁷ Then one of the four living creatures gave the seven angels seven gold bowls full of the anger of God, who lives forever and ever. ⁸ The temple was filled with smoke from the glory and power of God, and no one could go into the temple until the seven plagues brought by the seven angels had come to an end.

 

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Testing the limits of what I could do, I performed my new found freedom in secret. I did a few things I was not supposed to do, and “got away with it.” But one day the thing I was doing was discovered and I had to face the full anger which I feared.

 

• I thought I was getting away with being “free.”
• I thought I would not have to face consequence if no one knew what I was doing.
• I thought I could escape anger.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw the temple in heaven open with the Sacred Tent in it. He saw seven angels with seven bowls of GOD’s anger ready to be poured out on the earth. This was the end of the patience of GOD, the earth had enjoyed since the beginning of humanity.

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s anger will one day be in full force.
• GOD has seen every wrong doing you and I have ever done.
• GOD’s anger can be escaped through saving belief in JESUS.

 

Our current actions dictate which bowls we belong to. One set of twenty eight bowls in heaven contains the prayers of those who believe in JESUS as the Savior. But there is another set of seven bowls that are GOD’s full anger towards those who cause harm to those who believe in JESUS.

 

GOD’s anger is nothing to play with. HIS fury is dedicated to those who refuse the prompting of the HOLY SPIRIT to believe in JESUS as the Savior. Blame, rage, wars and hatred spew from those who have not surrendered their lives . GOD records every though, every action against HIS kingdom. I am glad HE made a way to avoid HIS anger.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer say about GOD’s anger?
• Have you ever been angry at someone?
• Will you seek GOD’s grace by asking HIM for forgiveness today through HIS SON, JESUS?

What Am I Saying?

What Am I Saying?

Revelation 14: ⁶ Then I saw another angel flying high in the air, with an eternal message of Good News to announce to the peoples of the earth, to every race, tribe, language, and nation. ⁷ He said in a loud voice, “Honor God and praise his greatness! For the time has come for him to judge all people. Worship him who made heaven, earth, sea, and the springs of water!”

 

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Saying a joke about someone got a few laughs. After a while, I was able to insult anyone who crossed my path. I became a jokester. But when I had something serious to say, people thought I was joking and brushed off the statements as unimportant.

 

• I felt I had wasted my words.
• I looked back on what I said and found no value.
• I realized that words are important.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw another especial event. Another angel appeared with an eternal message of Good News. This was to be announced to every race, tribe, language and nation. “Honor GOD and praise HIS greatness!

 

My Observations:

• GOD deserves honor and praise
• GOD will judge all people at a set time.
• GOD is worthy of worship because HE made heaven, earth, sea and springs of water.

 

How many of my words “Honor GOD?” I mean, even when I mention HIM, am I honoring HIM? GOD should be held in the highest esteem. Honor GOD means placing the highest value in who HE is and what HE does. Devaluing GOD, means seeing HIM as an obstacle, or a problem or not worthy of my time.

 

We only have so many words we will ever say in our lives. What’s important to GOD should be important to me. If he made a special event to tell us to Honor HIM, I should be willing to do so. I praise GOD from whom all blessings flow.

 

Challenge

• What is the great message given to the writer?
• Does the message seem mundane?
• Will you seek to “honor” GOD and “worship” HIM today?

All Is Not Lost

All Is Not Lost

Revelation 5: I saw a scroll in the right hand of the one who sits on the throne; it was covered with writing on both sides and was sealed with seven seals. ² And I saw a mighty angel, who announced in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to break the seals and open the scroll?” ³ But there was no one in heaven or on earth or in the world below who could open the scroll and look inside it. ⁴ I cried bitterly because no one could be found who was worthy to open the scroll or look inside it. ⁵ Then one of the elders said to me, “Don't cry. Look! The Lion from Judah's tribe, the great descendant of David, has won the victory, and he can break the seven seals and open the scroll.”

 

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“My life is ruined” I thought to myself. I was told by the dean that I was no longer in school. I didn’t have a plan “B” so I felt I did not know what to do. Someone said, “Ask to get back in.” “What? You can do that?” I asked and they let me back in.

 

• I thought all was lost.
• I did not know there was a way, so I fell in despair.
• I was told there was a way and I felt relieved.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, sees the result of something not revealed to humans. A scroll of judgment was sealed by seven holy seals. He was not told why a sinless human was needed to open the scroll, but all he knew was no one was worthy. He wept bitterly. But then he was told that JESUS won the victory!

 

My Observations:

• Satan thought that he could become GOD by introducing sin into the first humans.
• No human was worthy to open the scroll because all were born into sin.
• JESUS had to become a human through a miraculous birth, live a sinless life, die in faith and be raised from the dead so HE could open the scroll that judged Satan and saved humans.

 

We do not understand the complexities of what JESUS did. We are not privy to the declaration that says Satan can have everything if the scroll could not be open. All we know is JESUS “did” open the scroll because HE is worthy! All is not lost! Hope is restored!

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer weep bitterly?
• Have you ever felt that all was lost?
• Will you see that JESUS has won the victory, not only for eternal life but over your circumstance and all your situations you will ever, ever face?

Who can defeat the world?

Who can defeat the world?

1 John 5: Whoever believes that Jesus is the Messiah is a child of God; and whoever loves a father loves his child also. ² This is how we know that we love God's children: it is by loving God and obeying his commands. ³ For our love for God means that we obey his commands. And his commands are not too hard for us, ⁴ because every child of God is able to defeat the world. And we win the victory over the world by means of our faith. ⁵ Who can defeat the world? Only the person who believes that Jesus is the Son of God.

 

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Winning the most coveted award in the company made me feel great! Conversely, being told “Your position has been eliminated” was devastating. I had wrapped my entire identity in work. When I had to face other parts of the world, I no longer had my title to lean on.

 

• I felt beat up by the world.
• I thought that the world was helpful, until it turned against me.
• I felt that I lost my “purpose” that was given to me by the world.

 

John turned his attention to defining what true victory looks like. He first spoke about what true success looks like. He mentioned the grand prize of being a child of GOD. He then defines how GOD’s children should act, namely with love and obedience to GOD. He then defines the battle. Believers against the world.

 

My Observations:

• The world has a lot to offer that could distract me from believing in GOD.
• Fighting the world sometimes feels overwhelming.
• GOD sent HIS SON to defeat the world, and HE did, so I need to place my trust in HIM so I can experience HIS victory!

 

Life has many ups and downs and the world thinks it has remedies. I mean, the solutions from the world usually appeal to my eyes, pride, and physical indulgences. BUT GOD wants more than that for me. JESUS was tempted by food, power and physical preservation.

 

HE experienced pain and suffering. HE knew about loneliness as well as persecution. HE did all of this to overcome the world so I would not have to. Any problem I face, HE knows and is empathetic. I am glad JESUS understands me and has defeated the world so I can have life through HIM.

 

Challenge

• What answer does the writer give to the question “Who can defeat the world?”
• Are all of your solutions to life’s problems from the internet?
• Will you seek a relationship with JESUS, who defeated the powers of this world, so HE could save you and me to join in HIS plan to save all today?

Make It Happen

Make It Happen

2 Peter 3: ¹⁰ But the Day of the Lord will come like a thief. On that Day the heavens will disappear with a shrill noise, the heavenly bodies will burn up and be destroyed, and the earth with everything in it will vanish. ¹¹ Since all these things will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people should you be? Your lives should be holy and dedicated to God, ¹² as you wait for the Day of God and do your best to make it come soon—the Day when the heavens will burn up and be destroyed, and the heavenly bodies will be melted by the heat. ¹³ But we wait for what God has promised: new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness will be at home.

 

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“The sooner you all pick up all your stuff, the sooner you can leave” was the statement of the person who stood between us and freedom from the being “stuck” in the activity. It had been a long day and all of us wanted to leave, so we got to work putting everything in place.

 

• I wanted freedom from working.
• I wanted to be done with pain.
• I wanted to be in a better place than working or learning!

 

Peter tried to explain the imminent return of JESUS. He says it will come unexpectedly. He tried to explain the magnitude of the return of CHRIST by implying it will be extremely noticeable and unlike anything that has ever happened. He then suggests that we all prepare for this Day by seeking the lost with urgency.

 

My Observations:

• GOD’s desire is that no one will suffer and that all would accept HIS SON as the Savior.
• My desire should align with GOD’s desire.
• The sooner we all can work together in unity to present JESUS as the Savior to the world, the sooner HE will return.

 

Only GOD knows the Day that JESUS will return and on that Day, things will change immensely. I mean, many prophecies, given from GOD to multiple writers, state that the Day of the LORD will be a terrible day, however it will be a great one for those who love the LORD and believe in HIM as the Savior.

 

We don’t know the last person who will accept CHRIST, but it is important that we continue to pursue everyone with the urgency GOD desires. I am glad GOD has entrusted humans to seek other humans for eternity.

 

Challenge

• What picture does the writer put in your mind regarding the last day?
• How would you feel if someone could exclude you from heaven because he or she desired that you, or anyone like you, should not be included in GOD’s love?
• Will you believe that GOD has your name written in HIS hand and in the Lamb’s Book of Life, so you cannot lose your salvation and so you can seek those who are rejecting JESUS today?

Give an Account

 

Give an Account

1 Peter 4:  ⁵ But they will have to give an account of themselves to God, who is ready to judge the living and the dead. ⁶ That is why the Good News was preached also to the dead, to those who had been judged in their physical existence as everyone is judged; it was preached to them so that in their spiritual existence they may live as God lives.

 

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After I woke up, I realized that an hour had passed. The supervisor came by and asked “What have you been doing during this time?” I was supposed to be counting surveys, but the job was repetitious and boring. “I don’t know” was my childish reply.

 

• I didn’t do what I was supposed to be doing.
• I wasted my time sleeping.
• I had to give an account for what I was supposed to be doing.

 

Peter continues his theological explanation by stating why JESUS spoke to those who died without believing in HIM for salvation. Their spiritual existence is permanent so, unfortunately, their judgment is also permanent and eternal. After physical death, those who did not believe in JESUS will be judged.

 

My Observations:

• Salvation through JESUS is necessary for my current life.
• GOD wants all believers to spread the Gospel to everyone so that all may be saved.
• Those who reject the message of JESUS, unfortunately will not be saved.

 

Each of us has to give an account for our short time on earth. I mean, at some point I will stand in front of GOD and have HIM ask me “What did you do with your time on earth?” or HE will tell me “This is what you spent your time on earth.” Either way, I have to give an account for what is important to HIM, namely spreading the Gospel of HIS SON.

 

JESUS became a human to be murdered by HIS creation. HE was raised from the dead, showing GOD has all power over life and death. JESUS now rules at the right hand of GOD and they are waiting for the last person to accept HIM as Savior. I am glad GOD includes me in HIS plan to reach people with the Gospel.

 

Challenge

• What account is the writer speaking about?
• Have you ever looked at your time to assess how much of it you are giving to GOD?
• Will you give more time to GOD during the week to intentionally spread the Gospel of JESUS today?

Keeping It Real

Keeping It Real

2 Corinthians 11: ¹² I will go on doing what I am doing now, in order to keep those other “apostles” from having any reason for boasting and saying that they work in the same way that we do. ¹³ Those men are not true apostles—they are false apostles, who lie about their work and disguise themselves to look like real apostles of Christ. ¹⁴ Well, no wonder! Even Satan can disguise himself to look like an angel of light! ¹⁵ So it is no great thing if his servants disguise themselves to look like servants of righteousness. In the end they will get exactly what their actions deserve.

 

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Looking at the “mistakes” my peers made in other departments gave me a way to mention how “good” my department was doing. Competition was fierce over getting budget and I felt the pressure to survive. One day an issue did arise in my area. Suddenly, I was being scrutinized instead of praised.

 

• I was busy looking at someone else’s problems.
• I was focused on what other people were doing and not paying attention to what I was supposed to do.
• I was insecure about me so I took attention off of me and put it on someone else.

 

Paul said a mouthful when he wrote the words “I will go on doing what I am doing.” Instead of spending time telling people about every detail of how the false apostles were disguising themselves to look like angels of light, he had to do what GOD called him to do so he would not fall.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to focus my attention on my relationship with HIM.
• GOD wants me to see that I am the one who needs salvation, direction and encouragement.
• GOD wants me to be true to HIS word.

 

Keeping it real with GOD is important. I mean, HE does not want to hear “but he” or “but she” from me. HE may ask me “How did you respond in the situation?” or “Did you use the weapons of love and patience I gave you?” The only response I can say to HIM is “No.”

 

BUT HE gives me many other chances to grow up and try out HIS valuable weapons. He also wants me prepared for daily attacks from the enemy’s attacks. HE gives me truth, righteousness, the gospel of peace, faith, salvation and the HIS word as my daily protection. I am glad JESUS forgives my mistakes and gives me another chance each day.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer say about the war between “good” and “evil” in this passage?
• Do you think you are responsible for fighting false messages said by others?
• Have you ever messed up and needed grace?
• Will you seek a solid relationship with JESUS and make HIM LORD of your life so you can have a “real” abundant life today?

Must Appear

Must Appear

2 Corinthians 5: ⁶ So we are always full of courage. We know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord's home. ⁷ For our life is a matter of faith, not of sight. ⁸ We are full of courage and would much prefer to leave our home in the body and be at home with the Lord. ⁹ More than anything else, however, we want to please him, whether in our home here or there. ¹⁰ For all of us must appear before Christ, to be judged by him. We will each receive what we deserve, according to everything we have done, good or bad, in our bodily life.

 

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Receiving a summons to appear in court was never fun but it happened. The words “YOU MUST APPEAR” were in big bold red capital letters that seemed intimidating. The letter held instructions about my court date but it also had the traffic violation and the date of my malefaction.

 

• I felt angry, shamed and scared all at once.
• I felt like my perfect driving record was damaged.
• I felt that I had to drive extra perfect to keep from being judged again. This was super false!

 

Paul mentions the true purpose of life. He says “Life is a matter of faith” and then tells everyone that the faith that is worth anything is to please the LORD JESUS who will one day judge everyone according to every deed that is done.

 

My Observations

• Every deed I do is seen by GOD.
• One deed does not undo another deed in GOD’s eyes.
• GOD is the only one who sees the things I do for HIM and judges the things I do for myself.

 

Trying to act righteous can sometimes get me in trouble. I mean, when I think I am pleasing GOD by following the Bible to the letter, I may be hurting others by holding them to a standard I could not keep myself. BUT DOD wants me to act differently.

 

HE wants me to point my sinful life to HIM so others can do the same. Life is not about living in perfection rather accepting perfection which is JESUS. The HOLY SPIRIT will then guide me to the places I need to go and deliver the words I need to say. Life is about surrender so I can be pleasing to GOD. The more I surrender to GOD the more pleasing and amazing deeds HE guides me to do.

 

Challenge

• What do you notice about fear and courage in this passage?
• Have you ever placed your courage in something the crowd is saying but felt it could possibly be against what GOD is telling you?
• Can you gain courage to surrender your life to JESUS little by little, giving HIM your deeds as best as you can without worrying about HIS judgement but focusing in on HIS love today?

Convinced, Judged and Opened

 

Convinced, Judged and Opened

1 Corinthians 14: ²⁰ Do not be like children in your thinking, my friends; be children so far as evil is concerned, but be grown up in your thinking. ²¹ In the Scriptures it is written,

 

“By means of people speaking strange languages
    I will speak to my people, says the Lord.
I will speak through lips of foreigners,
    but even then my people will not listen to me.”

 

²² So then, the gift of speaking in strange tongues is proof for unbelievers, not for believers, while the gift of proclaiming God's message is proof for believers, not for unbelievers.

²³ If, then, the whole church meets together and everyone starts speaking in strange tongues—and if some ordinary people or unbelievers come in, won't they say that you are all crazy? ²⁴ But if everyone is proclaiming God's message when some unbelievers or ordinary people come in, they will be convinced of their sin by what they hear. They will be judged by all they hear, ²⁵ their secret thoughts will be brought into the open, and they will bow down and worship God, confessing, “Truly God is here among you!”

 

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Walking into a church, I noticed everyone was dressed nicely, the place was neat and clean and everyone had a smile on their face. It felt weird, almost like a group of aliens from another planet had taken over. They spoke to each other in Bible verses that I was unfamiliar with and made me stand up and introduce myself, as if I wasn’t already uncomfortable enough.

 

• I felt like I was on the outside of the group.
• I felt like I was not “clean” enough for this group.
• I felt like I was more of a burden than a willing participant so I left and never came back.

 

Paul concludes addressing the use of speaking in tongues. He mentions this gift is valuable, but can be disruptive to those who are not believers. He tries to explain the purpose of saying anything needs to be for GOD.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to share my testimony which includes my sins.
• GOD wants me to be free to share how I am forgiven for all my sins.
• GOD wants me to want others to be free to see JESUS as the solution, versus HIM being the problem.

 

Making JESUS the problem is usually not done on purpose. I mean, well-meaning people, who may have gone through a lot, try to explain that JESUS is the answer to every problem, and HE is. But sometimes this group can forget they are “still” sinners who need guidance by the HOLY SPIRIT daily.

 

GOD wants me to see people different. It is not “us” who are believers versus “them” who are unbelievers. It is “us” who are all sinners. No one sin is greater than another and anyone who confesses their sins and believes that JESUS is the one and only forgiver, will be saved eternally. I am convinced I am a sinner, judged by my wrongs and open to saying JESUS forgave me for my past, current and future sins.

 

Challenge

 

• How do you think salvation should be spoken to someone you know who may not believe in JESUS?
• If you attend church regularly, what do you notice about testimonies?
• Will you take baby steps in telling people about your deepest sins so they will be willing to turn their life to JESUS today?

Desiring Good Body Health

 Desiring Good Body Health

1 Corinthians 11: ²⁶ This means that every time you eat this bread and drink from this cup you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. ²⁷ It follows that if one of you eats the Lord's bread or drinks from his cup in a way that dishonors him, you are guilty of sin against the Lord's body and blood. ²⁸ So then, you should each examine yourself first, and then eat the bread and drink from the cup. ²⁹ For if you do not recognize the meaning of the Lord's body when you eat the bread and drink from the cup, you bring judgment on yourself as you eat and drink. ³⁰ That is why many of you are sick and weak, and several have died. ³¹ If we would examine ourselves first, we would not come under God's judgment. ³² But we are judged and punished by the Lord, so that we shall not be condemned together with the world.

 

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“If one of you is late, then all of you are late” were the words of the organization I was trying to join during college. This didn’t seem fair because there were always a couple of people who would always be late, who also were trying to join. When asked where are they, no one spoke up. I then made up something to protect them. “When one of you doesn’t tell the truth, all of you lie” was the reply. How did he know I was lying?

 

• There were times when I wanted to protect myself so I would do or say anything to do so.
• There were times when I thought “It was their fault I am being punished.”
• There were times when I felt I was justified with an individual sin I did because those people “made” me do it.

 

Paul warns people about eating and drinking in a way that dishonors JESUS. He had already explained that the “body” should have unity, now he is addressing something more serious, namely the heart. He suggests staying away from proclaiming what JESUS has done by eating and drinking communion bread and wine until recognition of “the body” is accepted.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to see all people as HIS.
• GOD wants me to examine myself to see if I have any evil desires towards one of HIS children.
• GOD wants me to turn from those evil desires by asking HIM for forgiveness.

 

Being forgiven by GOD seems unnecessary once I believed in JESUS for salvation, I mean I’m going to sin and didn’t HE forgive me for all my sins? Yes, however if I have the attitude that I do not need to follow what JESUS desires, am I in trouble? Possibly.

 

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. Having a healthy fear of GOD to me means I can see other people and desire the best for them, which is a saving relationship with JESUS. This doesn’t mean I or they won’t slip and sin, rather all of us will be guided by the HOLY SPIRIT to seek GOD’s kingdom first. I am not better than another person in HIS eyes. I am glad HE looks at all of us with HIS love.

 

Challenge

• What do you notice about the seriousness of eating and drinking to proclaim HIS death until HE returns?
• What do you see regarding how you treat others or “the body”?
• How does self-examination affect health? Do you believe health can be affected by the heart?
• Is there anyone in your heart that could be treated more honorably?

Litigious

Litigious

1 Corinthians 6: If any of you have a dispute with another Christian, how dare you go before heathen judges instead of letting God's people settle the matter? ² Don't you know that God's people will judge the world? Well, then, if you are to judge the world, aren't you capable of judging small matters? ³ Do you not know that we shall judge the angels? How much more, then, the things of this life! ⁴ If such matters come up, are you going to take them to be settled by people who have no standing in the church? ⁵ Shame on you! Surely there is at least one wise person in your fellowship who can settle a dispute between fellow Christians. ⁶ Instead, one Christian goes to court against another and lets unbelievers judge the case!

 

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Wanting to show who was in charge, I met with the legal team to discuss a dispute “I” had with another company. Since “they” were acting like jerks, “I” wanted to change the contract to add a few fines. “You can’t do that” the legal team advised. I was furious.

 

• There have been times when I wanted to go to court to get “my” way.
• There have been times when I wanted to show who really had the “power.”
• There have been times when I wanted to sue a group for a simple matter.

 

Paul attempts to grow this group of believers without saying the words “Just grow up!” They were taking disputes to court and letting unbelievers judge the case. Paul explains that those who believe in JESUS will one day judge the world, the evil spirits who tempted us and the one who devoured us.

 

• GOD wants me to seek peace with those who believe in JESUS.
• GOD wants me to use HIS wisdom in settling disagreements.
• GOD wants me to take peace before HIS throne so I will not act like Satan who brings accusations against me every step of the way.

 

Litigiousness also means acting combative, contentious, disputatious, disputative and argumentative. This disruptive behavior destroys the harmony GOD seeks. It also shows just how much of a child I have been when seeking “my” way and throwing a legal tantrum.

 

This behavior shows up in other areas of my life. When I complain about the way other people do things or get mad at GOD while trying to explain to HIM how “good” I have been. GOD wants me to seek HIS peace with everyone and leave the vengeance to HIM. I am grateful for HIS grace that is truly sufficient.

 

• Are you mad at someone to the point of trying to sue?
• Are you seeking advice from those who do not believe in JESUS?
• Will you stop trying to build “your” case and examine your heart to see if you are acting with hatred or love today?

Foolishly Bold

Foolishly Bold

1 Corinthians 3: ¹⁶ Surely you know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit lives in you! ¹⁷ God will destroy anyone who destroys God's temple. For God's temple is holy, and you yourselves are his temple.

 

¹⁸ You should not fool yourself. If any of you think that you are wise by this world's standards, you should become a fool, in order to be really wise. ¹⁹ For what this world considers to be wisdom is nonsense in God's sight. As the scripture says, “God traps the wise in their cleverness”; ²⁰ and another scripture says, “The Lord knows that the thoughts of the wise are worthless.” ²¹ No one, then, should boast about what human beings can do. Actually everything belongs to you: ²² Paul, Apollos, and Peter; this world, life and death, the present and the future—all these are yours, ²³ and you belong to Christ, and Christ belongs to God.

 

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Worried about what people would think of me, I chose not to speak about JESUS. I was trying to reach a certain title in this particular company and I “needed” to behave a certain way. I could not jeopardize “my” journey upward. “I will show my relationship with JESUS when I get on top, then people will believe because I’m in charge” I thought to myself.

 

• There were times when I followed the ever changing ways of the world.
• There were times when I felt embarrassed about speaking up for JESUS.
• There were times when I worried about what humans would do if I spoke about JESUS.

 

Paul brings assuredness about GOD’s eternal protection. HE knows there will be some evil people who want to go against HIM and HIS people. HE also knows they will try to harm HIS people and vows to destroy those who bring harm on anyone who believes in JESUS.

 

• GOD wants me to know that I am HIS temple.
• GOD wants me to treat other people with the same holiness as I should treat myself.
• GOD wants me to become foolish to the world so HIS wisdom may shine all the brighter.

 

Leaving the pursuit of money, title and accolades may seem foolish to the world, but it is wise to GOD. I mean, the world raises questions about preservation of life based on its wisdom. GOD says “HE knows that the thoughts of the wise are worthless.”

 

GOD has given everything to me because I belong to JESUS and JESUS belongs to GOD. I am glad I do not have to be scared of what the world thinks, because the world is mine because it belongs to JESUS.

 

• Are you worried about your future?
• Do you think humans are in control of you?
• Will you stop trying to use human wisdom and turn foolish by following JESUS so you can achieve true wisdom today?

Look at the Dust

 

Look at the Dust

1 Corinthians 1: ²⁶ Now remember what you were, my friends, when God called you. From the human point of view few of you were wise or powerful or of high social standing. ²⁷ God purposely chose what the world considers nonsense in order to shame the wise, and he chose what the world considers weak in order to shame the powerful. ²⁸ He chose what the world looks down on and despises and thinks is nothing, in order to destroy what the world thinks is important. ²⁹ This means that no one can boast in God's presence. ³⁰ But God has brought you into union with Christ Jesus, and God has made Christ to be our wisdom. By him we are put right with God; we become God's holy people and are set free. ³¹ So then, as the scripture says, “Whoever wants to boast must boast of what the Lord has done.”

 

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Seeing the car this person drove sparked our conversation. It was a very expensive car. I watched his mannerisms on stage and noticed what he did to prepare to get on stage. I took mental notes so I could be just like him when I grew up.

 

• There have been many people I looked at so I could become like them.
• There have been many people I have watched so I could learn how to be “successful.”
• There have been many people I have followed so I could gain their “wisdom.”

 

Paul points out something strange regarding important people. He mentions that the world sees people different than GOD. What the world sees as “important”, GOD will destroy. HE will do this with unconventional methods.

 

• GOD wants me to know I am special to HIM and I am not overlooked.
• GOD wants me to know HE sees people differently than the way the world sees people.
• GOD wants me to know that HE can use people who are overlooked and thrown away.

 

Overlooking people to label others as “important” is a travesty. I mean, GOD may label a person important that the world says is insignificant, then what? That is exactly what happened when JESUS became a human. HE was overlooked as the Messiah and many people did not believe HE was and is GOD.

 

HE then noticed the dusty people and healed them. HE raised up people, who the world would call insignificant, from the dust and placed them over the rich and powerful. I am glad GOD sees me and others different than those who overlook.

 

• Do you feel overlooked?
• Do you think you are insignificant?
• Will you praise GOD for being in the same group as CHRIST, because HE too was overlooked?
• Will you boast about JESUS and what HE did for you today?

Secret Plans

 

Secret Plans

Romans 2: ¹² The Gentiles do not have the Law of Moses; they sin and are lost apart from the Law. The Jews have the Law; they sin and are judged by the Law. ¹³ For it is not by hearing the Law that people are put right with God, but by doing what the Law commands. ¹⁴ The Gentiles do not have the Law; but whenever they do by instinct what the Law commands, they are their own law, even though they do not have the Law. ¹⁵ Their conduct shows that what the Law commands is written in their hearts. Their consciences also show that this is true, since their thoughts sometimes accuse them and sometimes defend them. ¹⁶ And so, according to the Good News I preach, this is how it will be on that Day when God through Jesus Christ will judge the secret thoughts of all.

 

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Looking out the window, I wished I could be outside playing. Overhearing how other people slipped away from school at lunch gave me an idea. I would try this myself. I planned my escape carefully and did accomplish my goal. Of course I did this on the very day my parents chose to be at home. Now I had to lie and pretend I was sick. I never made it outside.

 

• I have had many wrong thoughts that I wanted to do.
• I have had many wrong thoughts that I wanted to act on.
• I have had many wrong thoughts that I turned into plans and the plans turned into actions.

 

Paul writes about the Gentile’s and the Jew’s connection to the Law of Moses. He states, the Jews have the Law and are judged by it but the Gentiles do not have the Law but still act according to the Law because it is written in their hearts. He then sums up his statement by saying JESUS will judge the secret thoughts of all.

 

• GOD wants me to put HIS ways in my heart.
• GOD wants me to ask HIM to clean my heart because I do not know how evil I can be.
• GOD wants me to take every thought that pops in my mind and place them through HIS ways to see if I should act on it.

 

Temptation is not fair. I mean, humans are like sheep who sees another patch of yummy grass when it comes to sin. BUT GOD, being the shepherd, guides me away from the dangers of sin by giving me a way to avoid it.

 

GOD will judge my deepest secret plans that no one knows about. HE will show everyone what I have hidden in my heart. Any hatred, lust, greed, lie, cheat, anger, doubt, or fear, will be brought to the surface and put on display. I believe, the pain will be lessened by exposing my sin before HE does. I am glad GOD forgives me for the sin I hide in my heart.

 

• What are you hiding?
• Do you think you are getting away with the secret sin you have?
• Will you grow up and stop justifying your secret plans that lead you to sin and ask GOD to clean your heart so you can be guided by HIM today?

Trying to Lead You

 

Trying to Lead You

Romans 2: Do you, my friend, pass judgment on others? You have no excuse at all, whoever you are. For when you judge others and then do the same things which they do, you condemn yourself. ² We know that God is right when he judges the people who do such things as these. ³ But you, my friend, do those very things for which you pass judgment on others! Do you think you will escape God's judgment? ⁴ Or perhaps you despise his great kindness, tolerance, and patience. Surely you know that God is kind, because he is trying to lead you to repent. ⁵ But you have a hard and stubborn heart, and so you are making your own punishment even greater on the Day when God's anger and righteous judgments will be revealed.

 

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“I hate sneaky, deceptive people!” I said to myself in reference to my boss. He had a habit of snooping around my desk to get new ideas he could steal. I thought of a great plan. I left a terrible idea I heard from someone else on my desk.

 

I would then “hide” around the corner and peek on occasion to see if he took the bait. I wasn’t being sneaky because I was trying to catch him, right? Wrong.

 

• There were times when I justified my judgment of people and did the same things as them.
• There were times when I did worse things than others and needed grace when I was caught.
• There were times when I blamed other people, never once looking at myself.

 

Paul had just written about those who ignore GOD, substituting evil for what GOD says is right. But then he turns to those who call themselves “righteous” by following GOD’s rules. He asks a simple question. “Do you, my friend, pass judgment on others?” He then says, passing judgment on others brings condemnation on yourself.

 

• GOD wants me to turn away from the sins “I” commit.
• GOD wants me to recognize I deserve the judgment.
• GOD wants me to notice HE is trying to lead me to repent and stop doing the things I blame other people of doing.

 

Judging others is not my job. I mean, GOD is the only one who has a heaven and a hell to place those HE chooses. Yes, GOD does want me and other people to stand up for those being harmed. HE also wants me to protect people from those who want to do evil for their pleasure.

 

BUT GOD wants me to examine myself each day to see if I am judging others and acting the same way. HE has given me a generous helping of kindness, tolerance and patience. HE wants me to combat wrong with these wonderful weapons. I am glad GOD cares enough to try to lead me back to HIS ways.

 

• Are you mad at someone?
• Do you think of how wrong “that” person is?
• Do you talk about how wrong “that” person is with your friends or other family members?
• Will you examine your own heart to see if there is hatred, bitterness, anger or resentment in it so you can ask GOD to remove it and replace it with the same love HE has for you today?