Gathered to His People

Gathered to His People

Genesis 35: ²⁷ Then Jacob came to his father Isaac at Mamre, or Kirjath Arba (that is, Hebron), where Abraham and Isaac had dwelt. ²⁸ Now the days of Isaac were one hundred and eighty years. ²⁹ So Isaac breathed his last and died, and was gathered to his people, being old and full of days. And his sons Esau and Jacob buried him.

 

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After Simeon and Levi took revenge on the men of Shechem, GOD told Jacob to leave. He went to Bethel whiner his mother’s nurse died. Jacob mourned her death. He then continued to Ephrath, otherwise known as Bethlehem where Rachel, his beloved, died giving birth to Benjamin. Jacob mourned her death He then came home to see his father. Isaac breathed his last breath.

 

My Observations:

• Isaac died at one hundred eighty years of age.
• Jacob made it to Isaac to see his last breath.
• Isaac was gathered to his people or joined his ancestors.

 

This is the second mention of ancestors being someplace else other than alive on earth. The first mention was when Abraham died. Jacob and Esau buried Isaac’s body, but the words “gathered to his people” implies that they only buried Isaac’s corpse.

 

Isaac was no longer in the shell that was walking on this earth. He was back with his ancestors. But who are they? Isaac was a link in the lineage of CHRIST. Men and women who had conversations with the LORD were alive after death. Isaac was “full of his days”, meaning he reached a high number of years on this earth, but was alive after death.

 

Challenge

• Why did GOD tell Moses about Jacob being with his father to see him die?
• Do you believe in the afterlife?
• Do you know what will happen to you if you were to die today?

Plans After the Problem

Plans After the Problem

Revelation 14: ¹³ Then I heard a voice from heaven saying, “Write this: Happy are those who from now on die in the service of the Lord!”

 

“Yes indeed!” answers the Spirit. “They will enjoy rest from their hard work, because the results of their service go with them.”

 

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Not knowing I could goof off, I kept working. I dumped ashtrays, wiped up spilled drinks, sprayed and arranged the bowling shoes and put away the bowling balls. I looked around and realized I was doing all the work and the other floor porters were outside, enjoying themselves.

 

• I wondered why I was working so hard when “everyone else” was having fun.
• I thought about not doing my job because “everyone else” was not doing theirs.
• I kept doing my job and was met with uncomfortable conversations like “You are making us look bad”, so I felt bad.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, heard a supernatural conversation. One voice told him to write down a blessing that was aimed at those who would die in service of the LORD. This statement would apply to those who were persecuted during the tribulation of GOD. The response to the statement to “Write this” was “Yes indeed!” by the HOLY SPIRIT.

 

My Observations:

• Enjoyment was the plan after their death
• GOD sees hard work that is done in service of the LORD.
• Results of service of the LORD will be in the form of people who were the benefactors of the service.

 

Service of the LORD can seem lonely at times. I mean, if GOD sends you to a place that does not value HIM or any servant HE sends, it can seem lonely being the sent servant. BUT GOD sees every ounce of service done “of the LORD.”

 

In spite of how things may seem, “keep going” says GOD. HE has plans for this life and afterwards. Death has no power over those who reverence the LORD. Every word spoken for HIM and about HIM is accounted for. Every deed done in service of HIM will be blessed.

 

Challenge

• What is the mood of the conversation the writer records?
• Have you ever felt like giving up on the LORD?
• Will you persevere and remain faithful to the LORD even when it gets difficult or it may “seem” like you are the only one serving in an area?

Destiny Fulfilled

Destiny Fulfilled

Revelation 13: ⁹ “Listen, then, if you have ears! ¹⁰ Whoever is meant to be captured will surely be captured; whoever is meant to be killed by the sword will surely be killed by the sword. This calls for endurance and faith on the part of God's people.”

 

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Working the cushy job was nice, but not enough after a while. There was a problem with the imbalanced population at the officer level that was noticeable. “Someone should speak up!” people whispered, but were afraid of losing their cushy jobs. I got with another person and we met with the higher ups, appealing the benefits of “balance.”  After a while, I was let go.

 

• I was willing to peacefully fight for a cause.
• I wanted what was right and was willing to give up the mundane for something better.
• Demise was no longer feared because the cause was more important.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, hears a pep talk for those remaining during the tribulation. Satan was loose and this meant difficult times for believers in JESUS. Instead of bowing down to Satan, people may gain the courage to continue in their open belief in JESUS, even unto demise.

 

My Observations:

• Human causes may make me fight someone, BUT GOD’s cause is one that brings eternal life.
• Believing in JESUS sounds easy, but it will make the world angry because it sometimes means surrendering pleasure for pain.
• Endurance and faith are needed because the world will brag about fame, power and wealth, meanwhile despising those who are willing to give it all up to live for CHRIST.

 

Destiny for the believer may require endurance and faith. I mean, in the days of relative truth, manipulation and word twisting, it is difficult to present GOD’s love which is JESUS. The HOLY SPIRIT guides believers away from the sin we desire over GOD. Who would want that? GOD does.

 

HE knows sin causes us to be blind, even to the point where we can no longer see or “hear” GOD. That’s why HE says “Listen, then, if you have ears!” GOD always, always has a better plan that plays out in this life and the next. Endurance and faith are needed!

 

Challenge

• Is the message from the writer harsh?
• Have you ever found yourself in a situation where the original benefit was no longer good enough?
• Will you turn from human causes to understand GOD’s main cause, which is to save all humans by belief in JESUS today?

No Seconds

No Seconds

Revelation 2: ⁸ “To the angel of the church in Smyrna write:

 

“This is the message from the one who is the first and the last, who died and lived again. ⁹ I know your troubles; I know that you are poor—but really you are rich! I know the evil things said against you by those who claim to be Jews but are not; they are a group that belongs to Satan! ¹⁰ Don't be afraid of anything you are about to suffer. Listen! The Devil will put you to the test by having some of you thrown into prison, and your troubles will last ten days. Be faithful to me, even if it means death, and I will give you life as your prize of victory.

 

¹¹ “If you have ears, then, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches!

“Those who win the victory will not be hurt by the second death.

 

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After going through the storm of life, I sat in a daze. This particular storm was pretty harsh. Wounded and exhausted I said “Please don’t let another storm happen right now.”

 

• Life had dished out difficult stretch.
• Wave one of problems was enough.
• I don’t know how I could have survived another wave of problems like that.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, wrote his second warning of seven. This time it was to Smyrna. JESUS had no correction for this church. However, HE did say this church would suffer from religious persecution. John gave a perspective of death that is healthy for believers. There will be no “second” death to those who believe.

 

My Observations:

• Fearing death is natural, BUT GOD wants me to desire eternal life with HIM.
• Believers of JESUS will experience everlasting life if they die.
• Those who die without belief in JESUS as the Savior, will experience a second death that is eternal.

 

Eternal death is not only permanent, but never ending. Pain and suffering intensifies from one moment to the next. Meanwhile, those who have eternal life will experience no pain, no suffering and increasing reasons to praise!

 

GOD sees the suffering that you and I have gone through. HE stores up rewards in heaven where they cannot be stolen by the enemy. HE is excited to provide relief from life’s pressures, but HE wants us to remain until we find the last person to accept JESUS as the Savior.

 

Challenge

• What feeling does the writer write about?
• Have you ever felt oppressed or faced suffering for your belief in JESUS?
• Will you continue in your faith, even if persecution increases, knowing that GOD has you and you will not experience a second death, but will reap a wonderful harvest?

 

Promised Life

Promised Life

2 Timothy 1: From Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by God's will, sent to proclaim the promised life which we have in union with Christ Jesus—

 

² To Timothy, my dear son:

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

 

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After telling GOD that I would return to HIM and serve HIM, I figured everything would be easy from that point on. I was tired of creditors calling me and low paying jobs that the public saw as degrading. I figured, that maybe GOD could help me get a better life. Things did go better for a while, but people around me got sick, hurt or even died. “I thought things would be better!” I cried out.

 

• I expected GOD to keep me from any and all harm.
• I expected that GOD would turn me into a sinless robot millionaire, who smiled every day.
• I expected that GOD would make everyone around me nicer than the nicest person we all knew and everyone would be healthy and without problems until JESUS came back.

 

Paul wrote another letter to Timothy. He begins the letter by explaining his calling to the LORD. Timothy knew this calling, so this letter was expected to be read by many others and to establish Timothy’s authority. Paul had been beaten, thrown out of synagogues and almost killed, yet he mentions “the promised life we have in union with CHRIST JESUS.’

 

My Observations

• Difficulties make me choose if I will proclaim JESUS or get mad at HIM for not meeting “my” expectations.
• Trials in life make me think that GOD isn’t listening to me or does not care.
• The HOLY SPIRIT in me, removes all doubt and shows me that GOD cares for me deeply in spite of what seems to be going on.

 

False expectations of GOD makes me set HIM up for failure in my mind. I mean, expecting everything to be easy because I have a relationship with HIM was never said by HIM. In fact, JESUS said I would be persecuted because of my relationship with HIM.

 

Things would not be easy. Satan, the enemy, wants to rob, steal and kill anyone who professes JESUS as the Savior. This is a fight versus a vacation. GOD knows I will face hard and difficult times, but provides comfort. HE does promise that after this difficult life, there will be no more difficulties. No bait and switch, there will be no more tears or pain. I am gladly continue following GOD, even when it is tough.

 

Challenge

• What promised life is the writer speaking of?
• Have you ever been disappointed in this life?
• What false expectations do you have of GOD?
• Will you continue to seek GOD’s kingdom in spite of life’s difficulties today?

Death or No Death

Death or No Death

1 Thessalonians 4: ¹⁵ What we are teaching you now is the Lord's teaching: we who are alive on the day the Lord comes will not go ahead of those who have died. ¹⁶ There will be the shout of command, the archangel's voice, the sound of God's trumpet, and the Lord himself will come down from heaven. Those who have died believing in Christ will rise to life first; ¹⁷ then we who are living at that time will be gathered up along with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will always be with the Lord. ¹⁸ So then, encourage one another with these words.

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“Don’t worry about it” were the assuring words from someone who saw me crying over in the corner. I had messed up “whatever” and was crying. It took me a while to realize that whatever I was crying over really did not matter.

 

• I was upset.
• I thought I had messed up.
• I worried that I could not be included in the favor others had.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy spoke about the “Day of the LORD.” This is the moment JESUS will return to collect what is rightfully HIS. Anyone who died believing in JESUS as the Savior will rise from the dead. Anyone alive will be “gathered up” in the clouds to meet the LORD. These were encouraging words.

 

My Observations

• The “Day of the LORD” will be a glorious day for those who believe in the Risen LORD.
• Those who have died believing in CHRIST will be risen,
• Those who are alive believing in CHRIST will be “gathered up”.

 

Having a bad day? What about messing up? All bad days and messing up will one day come to an end. Based on the belief in JESUS as the Savior, even death cannot stop us from being with HIM. HE will raise people from the dead and will gather up those who believe.

 

Unfortunately the “Day of the LORD” has a difficult side. Those who are against JESUS and who persecuted HIS servants will not see HIS grace. One day HIS mercy will end for those who do not believe. Until then, I look up to the heavens, each and every day, to see when HE will return.

 

Challenge

• What do the writers say about death?
• What does this passage say about “life?”
• Will you give your life purpose and seek GOD’s kingdom to prepare people to receive CHRIST today?
• Will you be encouraged that JESUS has you, no matter how much you messed up or how many days have been bad?

 

Brought Back to the Right Place

Brought Back to the Right Place

1 Thessalonians 4: ¹³ Our friends, we want you to know the truth about those who have died, so that you will not be sad, as are those who have no hope. ¹⁴ We believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will take back with Jesus those who have died believing in him.

 

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Driving around in circles, I asked for directions twice. I could not find my way to my destination. Finally I stopped a third time and asked for directions. “This place is confusing, but I will help you” were the comforting words I received from a stranger.

 

• I was lost and did not know how to get unlost.
• I was getting frustrated with being lost.
• I watched the time more intently as I drove around, seemingly aimlessly.

 

Paul, Silas and Timothy spoke about life after death. This confusing subject has been met with all sorts of philosophies, but they brought the truth. They spoke of eternal life through belief in the resurrection of JESUS.

 

My Observations

• This place is not my home, rather GOD’s kingdom is my desired home.
• Life can be confusing, BUT GOD is the only truth I can believe.
• JESUS was murdered, yet HE rose from the dead and now that I believe, I can have everlasting life.

 

GOD is in control. This statement is more difficult to say when things are going wrong or falling apart. Life can be confusing and directionless. BUT GOD made a way back to HIM, namely JESUS.

 

HE pursues us, knocks on us and asks us to surrender our lives to HIM. HE cares deeply for us, especially when we sin. HE provides for us and cannot wait to take us back to the place JESUS is building to this day. I a glad GOD has us in HIS hands and will never let go.

 

Challenge

• What is the writers opinion about death?
• What is your opinion about death and life after death?
• Will you surrender your life to CHRIST and seek JESUS as your Savior so you can be taken back when HE returns?

 

Powerful Powerlessness

Powerful Powerlessness

2 Corinthians 11: ³⁰ If I must boast, I will boast about things that show how weak I am. ³¹ The God and Father of the Lord Jesus—blessed be his name forever!—knows that I am not lying. ³² When I was in Damascus, the governor under King Aretas placed guards at the city gates to arrest me. ³³ But I was let down in a basket through an opening in the wall and escaped from him.

 

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Feeling powerless was old, so I decided to do something about it. I was tired of being pushed around by bullies. I joined a gym and started lifting weights. The stronger I got, the more I noticed how large the bullies were. One bully wanted me to join him to fight other bullies in a bar.

 

• I thought strength was the answer.
• I thought power was something worthy of attaining.
• I thought “I” could protect myself if I just got stronger.

 

Paul says something the world disagrees with. He boasts about being weak. He then gave an example of how the rich and powerful wanted to stop him from speaking about the King of kings, namely JESUS. Though powerless, he was protected from harm.

 

My Observations

• My weakest times are when I am most powerful in GOD’s eyes.
• Admitting “I cannot do this alone and I need GOD to handle this” is the most powerful statement I can say.
• Asking GOD for HIS will to be done is more powerful than trying to manipulate HIM to do “my” bidding.

 

Yielding to GOD is extremely powerful. I mean, when I want something so bad, that I worry about it and lay awake thinking about it, I get frustrated, confused and maybe even a little doubtful. But there is a way to approach the chaos that seems to leave me powerless. Let GOD handle it HIS way.

 

GOD has a purpose for me and for those who believe in HIS SON. The enemy wants me to think the circumstance is helpless. BUT GOD’s power is the ultimate power and HE is in control. HE owns every minute and every circumstance must go before HIM for HIS approval. I am glad I can say “YOUR will be done” and HE shows HE cares

 

Challenge

• Why did the writer choose this example?
• What examples of weakness that brings power can you think of?
• Will you let GOD handle your current situation and admit you need HIM for protection, guidance, strength and love today?

 

In loving memory of Mr. and Mrs. Farley and Mr. Davis

 

Second Chance

Second Chance

1 Corinthians 15: ⁵⁶ Death gets its power to hurt from sin, and sin gets its power from the Law. ⁵⁷ But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!

 

⁵⁸ So then, my dear friends, stand firm and steady. Keep busy always in your work for the Lord, since you know that nothing you do in the Lord's service is ever useless.

 

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Cutting the tall bushes at our first house, I couldn’t quite reach the top. I didn’t have a ladder so standing on my toes was the best option. As I reached with the hedge trimmers, my arm gave way. My natural response kicked in and I tried to steady the moving blades with my other hand, which was bare. I only needed stitches, but the finger was not cut off.

 

• I have had many close calls.
• I have had situations that I could have really been hurt.
• I have been given a second chance to do things right many times.

 

Paul gives us the Good News again. He explains that JESUS gave us the victory over a situation that seemed lost. Everyone must die was the problem presented to GOD because of the first sin. “But thanks be to GOD who gives us victory through our LORD JESUS CHRIST.”

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to stand firm because of the victory JESUS did.
• GOD wants me to remain steady even though life may throw many obstacles in my way.
• GOD wants me to keep busy in my work for the LORD, for even the smallest service is useful to HIM.

 

Sin and death cause fear. I mean, who wants punishment and who wants the pain of death? No one. BUT JESUS overcame death and released us from the sentence that wasn’t even caused by us.

 

Being born into sin doesn’t seem fair. BUT JESUS dying because of my birth seems exponentially unfair to HIM. HE took on all my sins and I no longer have to die eternally. I can have peace as HE guides me in ways to serve HIM daily.

 

Challenge

• What victory is the writer speaking about?
• Does knowing that JESUS is not out to punish you but to save you give you any relief?
• When given a second chance to do things right, what would you do differently?

Spiritual Beauty

Spiritual Beauty

1 Corinthians 15: ⁴⁰ And there are heavenly bodies and earthly bodies; the beauty that belongs to heavenly bodies is different from the beauty that belongs to earthly bodies. ⁴¹ The sun has its own beauty, the moon another beauty, and the stars a different beauty; and even among stars there are different kinds of beauty.

 

⁴² This is how it will be when the dead are raised to life. When the body is buried, it is mortal; when raised, it will be immortal. ⁴³ When buried, it is ugly and weak; when raised, it will be beautiful and strong. ⁴⁴ When buried, it is a physical body; when raised, it will be a spiritual body. There is, of course, a physical body, so there has to be a spiritual body.

 

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Driving vacations have been special to me when the destination was unknown. One memorable vacation was spent driving up the coast of one particular state. We left a familiar beautiful place and ran into unfamiliar beaches with sea lions sunbathing. Another place had tall cliffs with the ocean cascading a wonderous backdrop. Yet another place had tall wide trees and ferns adorning their feet. Each had its own beauty.

 

• I appreciate nature more and more.
• I like to look up and see the beauty way up in the sky.
• I enjoy experiencing beauty even if it is a creepy spiderweb spun with precision.

 

Paul speaks about beauty in nature, He talks about the unique beauty each area brings. Right outside, there is beauty in everything. He then spoke of how beautiful and strong each person will be when raised from the dead. No more weakness or decay, rather an everlasting beauty.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to see the beauty in HIS creation each day.
• GOD wants me to know that one day HE will transform my body into something beautiful and eternal.
• GOD wants me to know HIS definition of beauty is far above that of a human.

 

”Beauty is in the eye of the beholder” as the saying goes. But the true beholder is GOD. HE seems to delight in unique things. He made every drop of water in the ocean and every grain of sand on a beach.

 

I can marvel at what HE made and know this pales in comparison to what HE has in store for those who believe in HIM. I am glad HE sees the beauty in me and other believers in JESUS.

 

Challenge

• When you look at nature and life, do you see GOD as the creator?
• What does seeing GOD in creation have to do with your resurrection?
• Do you know GOD is far more concerned about you than HE is about a planet?
• Can you see the inner beauty in you and others more and more today by being reminded by nature?

Creator’s Choice

Creator’s Choice

1 Corinthians 15: ³⁵ Someone will ask, “How can the dead be raised to life? What kind of body will they have?” ³⁶ You fool! When you plant a seed in the ground, it does not sprout to life unless it dies. ³⁷ And what you plant is a bare seed, perhaps a grain of wheat or some other grain, not the full-bodied plant that will later grow up. ³⁸ God provides that seed with the body he wishes; he gives each seed its own proper body.

 

³⁹ And the flesh of living beings is not all the same kind of flesh; human beings have one kind of flesh, animals another, birds another, and fish another.

 

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Art was my favorite class. I could do something very different than the next person and my work would still be appreciated. I learned to color outside the lines in coloring books. Doodling helped me rest my mind and drawing cartoon style soon became a desire.

 

• I love creativity.
• I appreciate what people can come up with.
• I enjoy seeing other people’s talents.

 

Paul attempts to address questions people may have about the after-life. One question is “What kind of body will they have” in reference to being raised from the dead. He harshly points us to the Creator. He uses an analogy that humans can plant seeds but only GOD can make the seed that is planted.

 

My Observations

• GOD wants me to reduce my wondering “Why HE made me the way I am.”
• GOD wants me to be excited that HE created me with excitement.
• GOD wants me to appreciate that HE created me one of a kind and was pleased.

 

What I am and what I will become is up to GOD. I mean, HE is the one who shaped me in this body and when HE transforms me into the “proper body”, that too will be HIS choice. The exception will be I will have full appreciation of HIS artistry.

 

HE creates humans with unique nuances as well as animals and birds and fish. Not one thing is the same. GOD’s perfection is an art. I appreciate that GOD enjoys uniqueness.

 

Challenge

• Have you ever asked GOD “Why did you make me this way?”
• What is the writer’s reaction towards questioning the body type in the after-life?
• Which word comes to mind when recognizing GOD’s creation of you or other’s; appreciation, harmony or purpose?

Hope Actions

Hope Actions

1 Corinthians 15: ¹² Now, since our message is that Christ has been raised from death, how can some of you say that the dead will not be raised to life? ¹³ If that is true, it means that Christ was not raised; ¹⁴ and if Christ has not been raised from death, then we have nothing to preach and you have nothing to believe. ¹⁵ More than that, we are shown to be lying about God, because we said that he raised Christ from death—but if it is true that the dead are not raised to life, then he did not raise Christ. ¹⁶ For if the dead are not raised, neither has Christ been raised. ¹⁷ And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is a delusion and you are still lost in your sins. ¹⁸ It would also mean that the believers in Christ who have died are lost. ¹⁹ If our hope in Christ is good for this life only and no more, then we deserve more pity than anyone else in all the world.

 

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I used the term “I hope I get” a lot, for things I wanted. I said “I hope I get the dorm and my friend as a roommate” not knowing if I had even been accepted into the college. “I hope I get the job” or “I hope this will work out” has sometimes grated against my hope. When the answer was “No” or “Wait”, my hope tended to wane.

 

• I mistakenly placed hope in things I could see like bank accounts and material things.
• I have placed hope in my abilities or “capable” people.
• I tried to control situations rather than using hope as my foundation.

 

Paul spoke indirectly to a group of people known as the Sadducees. These people would be known as lawyers who studied the laws of Moses, given by GOD. Their unwritten motto was “Do everything right and you will have a good life.” One foundational belief that was problematic was, they did not believe in the resurrection of anyone, especially JESUS.

 

My Observation

• GOD wants me to know there is true life after this life.
• GOD wants me to believe that the same resurrection that happened to JESUS will happen to me, if I die.
• GOD wants me to understand that HE revealed enough of the afterlife to guide my actions in this life.

 

Belief in the afterlife is foundational to those who have a relationship with JESUS. I mean, saying “JESUS” is not enough. I must believe that JESUS died for a purpose and was raised from the dead for that same purpose, namely to save mankind.

 

The power that raised HIM from the dead is the same power that lives in me and will raise countless people to eternal life. Placing hope in this belief should guide my actions. But sometimes I place my hope in “me.” I think of a plan, act on that plan and get discouraged when the plan flops. GOD wants  my hope. I gladly place my hope in HIS power and love.

 

Challenge

• Have you pondered the afterlife?
• Do you think the actions you do daily only pertains to this life or the immediate situation?
• Have you ever acted impulsively and regretted it?
• Will you take time to ponder your existence and seek JESUS as a place to put your hope today?

Proceed with Caution

Proceed with Caution

1 Corinthians 7: ²⁵ Now, concerning what you wrote about unmarried people: I do not have a command from the Lord, but I give my opinion as one who by the Lord's mercy is worthy of trust.

 

²⁶ Considering the present distress, I think it is better for a man to stay as he is. ²⁷ Do you have a wife? Then don't try to get rid of her. Are you unmarried? Then don't look for a wife. ²⁸ But if you do marry, you haven't committed a sin; and if an unmarried woman marries, she hasn't committed a sin. But I would rather spare you the everyday troubles that married people will have.

 

²⁹ What I mean, my friends, is this: there is not much time left, and from now on married people should live as though they were not married; ³⁰ those who weep, as though they were not sad; those who laugh, as though they were not happy; those who buy, as though they did not own what they bought; ³¹ those who deal in material goods, as though they were not fully occupied with them. For this world, as it is now, will not last much longer.

 

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Driving in an unfamiliar area, I saw one of those familiar temporary construction signs except this time it had more words. “Proceed with Caution Icy Roads” was the glaring warning. Having driven on icy roads before, I slowed down. A car sped past me. Hours down the road, I saw that same car flipped over in the ditch, surrounded by emergency vehicles.

 

• Many times I have seen warning signs.
• Many times I have been told “Proceed with Caution.”
• Many times I have had the chance to correct what I was doing so I could remain on the road.

 

Paul continues addressing many concerns written to him. He tries to explain living with purpose versus should a person get married or not. He then gives an answer. “Time is short.”

 

• GOD wants me to live my life as though tomorrow were the last day.
• GOD wants me to live my life with purpose rather than only seeking pleasure.
• GOD wants me to live my life looking for JESUS to return, rather than seeking solving the “present distress.”

 

Looking for JESUS does not mean giving up on life and sitting in the corner. Well, not for everyone. I mean, JESUS’ return is imminent and every moment is numbered. But Paul wrote this a long, long time ago. What does he mean by “not much time left?”

 

Two things will happen. Either I will die or CHRIST will return in my lifetime. Either way, I do not have much time. A person’s life is short compared to eternity. I can choose to fill it with life’s pleasures and bear little to no fruit for JESUS or I can surrender my life to HIM. I gladly give my life to HIM because of HIS love for me.

 

• Are you so focused on this life that you never speak about JESUS?
• Do you think the warning signs have not flashed in your face?
• Will you heed the warnings of the present distress and allow GOD to guide your life through HIS SON JESUS, who will give you the HOLY SPIRIT as your comforter today?

The Cure

 

The Cure

Romans 5: ¹⁶ And there is a difference between God's gift and the sin of one man. After the one sin, came the judgment of “Guilty”; but after so many sins, comes the undeserved gift of “Not guilty!” ¹⁷ It is true that through the sin of one man death began to rule because of that one man. But how much greater is the result of what was done by the one man, Jesus Christ! All who receive God's abundant grace and are freely put right with him will rule in life through Christ.

 

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It was a long week, but it was finally over. I boarded the plane and took my normal restful seat by the window. The flight was full so the middle seat was occupied next to me. The guy coughed and sneezed most of the trip.

 

I tried staving off a cold by drinking extra orange juice, but to no avail. I caught the cold. When I got home, I tried to stay away from the family, but they too caught the same cold. And probably many other kids at their school.

 

• I can remember when one person infected me with a cold or flu.
• I can remember when one person infected me with temptation.
• I can remember when one person infected me with rage, anger, doubt or fear.

 

Paul explains that Adam’s one tiny sinful act caused a disease amongst humans that was not supposed to be there. Any offspring he had would be born into sin and deserve death. This pandemic needed a cure.

 

• JESUS knew that I was born into sin and deserved death.
• JESUS knew that I would commit sin all my life and would never choose HIM.
• JESUS knew HE was the cure, so HE died for me and gave me a transfusion with HIS shed blood.

 

Sin is a disease that cannot be cured by a sinful human. Only a pure human’s blood could provide the right transfusion to erase all sin. JESUS became a human and was murdered for being innocent. HE did not sin, even though HE faced greater temptation than any human.

 

HIS bloody death on the cross was enough to erase all sins to those who receive HIS love. HIS grace was truly sufficient. HE provided the vaccination, namely to believe in HIS cure for death. I believe in JESUS and the sin of one man, or especially my sin, has no effect on me.

 

• Are you struggling with the “good” versus “evil” thinking?
• Are you weary because you cannot be “good” enough to please GOD?
• Will you stop looking at GOD through diseased, sinful lenses and know HE provided a cure for your sin by believing that JESUS took care of your sin today and forever?

Bad Introduction

 

Bad Introduction

Romans 5: ¹² Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned—

 

¹³ To be sure, sin was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not charged against anyone’s account where there is no law. ¹⁴ Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who is a pattern of the one to come.

 

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“Go ahead, try it”, were the words of the dare. I had not used a “curse” word in my life and I was dared to do so. I said the word and received laughter. I then tried all kinds of “curse” words and soon they were part of my normal language. What’s the big deal? I fit in.

 

• There was a time when I wanted to fit in.
• There was a time when I would follow what the crowd did.
• There was a time when I did the wrong thing and felt part of the crowd.

 

Paul mentions the beginning of sin through Adam. His sin was disobeying GOD by eating from the one tree he was told to stay away from. Satan tempted Adam into eating the fruit, twisting GOD’s command.

 

What’s the big deal? Adam fell for the temptation and death was introduced to humans. All humans now deserved to be separated from GOD because of one simple act that did not seem to be a big deal.

 

• GOD knew sin was introduced to me before I was born.
• GOD knew I would choose sin over HIM because everyone around me are sinners too.
• GOD knew HE had the only remedy to my sin, namely HE had to die just for me.

 

It’s not fair, one would say. I mean, everyone has to go to hell just because of one person? Yes. BUT GOD wasn’t having it. JESUS, being GOD, volunteered to take on the punishment HE decreed. Anyone who sins deserves death, no matter how small the sin.

 

This, seemingly extreme, sentence was overcome by JESUS. “I’ll die for everyone”, HE volunteered. JESUS enabled me to not suffer for eternity.  I am truly grateful HE broke the pattern of death for me.

 

• Are you excusing what you are doing because everyone else is doing it?
• Have you or others declared you as “good?”
• Will you look to JESUS as the only one who is good and seek HIM for salvation and guidance today?

Description

Description

Acts 2: ²² “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders, and signs which God did through Him in your midst, as you yourselves also know— ²³ Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; ²⁴ whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it.

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“Can you describe the person?” inquired the police. I could not because the incident happened so fast. “I believe they were wearing a green coat” were my useless words. Startled after the near mugging, I only wanted to get home.

• Most times I am not thinking of describing someone.
• Most times I look at people and never retain the information.
• Most times I cannot remember the qualities of a person unless they did something that stood out.

Peter describes JESUS in a different way. He tells the people about JESUS from a GOD perspective. He did not talk about weight, or height or amounts of money.

• GOD wants me to see HIS qualities of love.
• GOD wants me to know HE is made up with grace, mercy and power.
• GOD wants me to understand that JESUS is alive and death could not hold HIM.

It’s amazing how distorted the message of JESUS can become. HIS amazing act of love can be tainted by political power mongers and greedy church leaders who’s hearts are mostly on expenses.

I love the humility of JESUS. I mean giving up everything just for me is absolutely amazing. No other thing people bow don to can say the same. I am grateful for HIS love.

• Are you confused about love?
• Do you think being part of a crowd means you are loved?
• Will you seek the ONE who showed ultimate love for you by believing in JESUS today?

Going Away

Going Away

John 16: ⁵ “But now I go away to Him who sent Me, and none of you asks Me, ‘Where are You going?’ ⁶ But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart. ⁷ Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you. ⁸ And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: ⁹ of sin, because they do not believe in Me; ¹⁰ of righteousness, because I go to My Father and you see Me no more; ¹¹ of judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.

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We were not supposed to smile during this particular event, yet he would bring levity to the tense situation. After a while, we were all laughing. When a serious person walked into the room, we tried to stop, but that made us laugh all the more.

• I remember great times with people who have “gone away.”
• I remember what people, who have “gone away”, have said.
• I remember the joy that people brought me who have “gone away.”

JESUS tells HIS disciples not to be sad that HE was about to “Go away.” They did not understand what HE meant because GOD, the Messiah, was not supposed to die. BUT GOD had something different in mind.

• JESUS had to die for my sins so HE could save me.
• JESUS had to be raised to life so HE could fulfill the promises HE made in scripture.
• JESUS had to send the HOLY SPIRIT to convict the world of sin, righteousness and judgment.

Death is something we all will “possibly” face some day. The HOLY SPIRIT was sent to be my HELPER while I am alive. HE guides me to remind people that JESUS is the one and only Savior. HE convicts those who do not believe, fortifies belief in the FATHER and judges the enemy who opposes belief in GOD.

I will miss those who have “gone away.” My prayer is for those who remain, to believe in the SON for salvation.

• Do you believe in life after death?
• Do you think “All roads lead to GOD?”
• Will you take a moment to focus on the only road to eternal salvation, namely JESUS, today?

(In loving memory of Sterling Sullivan)

Inside In

Inside In

John 14: ⁷ “If you had known Me, you would have known My Father also; and from now on you know Him and have seen Him.”

⁸ Philip said to Him, “Lord, show us the Father, and it is sufficient for us.”

⁹ Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you so long, and yet you have not known Me, Philip? He who has seen Me has seen the Father; so how can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? ¹⁰ Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father in Me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on My own authority; but the Father who dwells in Me does the works. ¹¹ Believe Me that I am in the Father and the Father in Me, or else believe Me for the sake of the works themselves.

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“Come camping with us” was the offer posed to me. I had never been camping before so I asked if I could go. Getting all the gear built up my excitement. When we arrived, it rained nonstop. I lost a lens to my glasses and a shoe in the mud. My sleeping bag caught fire. After all that, I still wanted to go camping again because I was part of the group.

• I was inside the group.
• I was building a comradery.
• The group was now inside of me.

JESUS tried to explain that if you have seen HIM, you have seen the FATHER. Philip asked JESUS to show the disciples the FATHER, even after JESUS’s comment. “I AM in the FATHER  and the FATHER is in ME.” This was not a figurative statement.

• The FATHER agreed to save me by losing HIS only SON.
• JESUS agreed to save me by volunteering to become a human, live a sinless life and be murdered by HIS own creation.
• The HOLY SPIRIT lives inside of me, speaking to the FATHER on my behalf, begging for forgiveness.

I am inside of JESUS and JESUS is inside of me through the HOLY SPIRIT. I now have access to the FATHER, who is all powerful. I cannot truly explain the structure of the Living GOD, but I can explain what HE has revealed to me. HE loves me and that is what matters.

• Are you living inside of GOD?
• Is GOD living inside of you?
• Will you allow GOD to take over your life so you can be guided by HIM to a better place today?