Dead to Alive

Dead to Alive

Revelation 20: ¹¹ Then I saw a great white throne and the one who sits on it. Earth and heaven fled from his presence and were seen no more. ¹² And I saw the dead, great and small alike, standing before the throne. Books were opened, and then another book was opened, the book of the living. The dead were judged according to what they had done, as recorded in the books. ¹³ Then the sea gave up its dead. Death and the world of the dead also gave up the dead they held. And all were judged according to what they had done. ¹⁴ Then death and the world of the dead were thrown into the lake of fire. (This lake of fire is the second death.) ¹⁵ Those who did not have their name written in the book of the living were thrown into the lake of fire.

 

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Seeing what seemed to be an ocean of people without homes, I decided to go another route. I only had enough in “my” wallet for “my” lunch. After a while, I was good at avoiding poor people. And besides, they were just going to take my money and use it to get drunk or buy drugs, right?

 

• I had figured out ways to not help the poor.
• I had justified why it was important for me to keep “my” money.
• I had labeled people in ways that made “me” feel good for not helping.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw the throne of JESUS. The sight was so incredible that Earth and heaven fled from HIS presence. John saw two sets of dead people, but only one set of books. The first set of dead were raised to “life” and the second set were raised to “death.”

 

My Observations:

• By believing in JESUS, all my deeds, will be replayed and I will be judged accordingly.
• For those who do not believe in JESUS as the Savior, even “good deeds” will be erased and counted against him or her.
• JESUS has a book of life that HE keeps and records the deeds we do that are precious to HIM.

 

“When did we feed YOU?” We will ask, JESUS will turn to a page and say “See, right here… When you gave that child a cup of water and some food.” “When did we clothe YOU?” we will ask. HE will flip to another page and say “See, its when you donated clothes.” JESUS cannot wait to show HIS people what they have done. Unfortunately HE also remembers what unbelievers have done.

 

HE will bring up all the deeds of those who manipulate, lie, cheat, harm and kill. These people will be thrown in the lake of fire with Satan, the beast and the false prophet. This “second death” will be an eternal death. I am glad you and me will be raised to an eternal life!

 

Challenge

• What deeds does the writer mention?
• Have you considered doing something good for someone, without desiring something in return?
• Have you given your life to CHRIST so your good deeds can be recorded as endearing to JESUS today?

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?

Not an Accomplice

Not an Accomplice

Revelation 19: ¹⁹ Then I saw the beast and the kings of the earth and their armies gathered to fight against the one who was riding the horse and against his army. ²⁰ The beast was taken prisoner, together with the false prophet who had performed miracles in his presence. (It was by those miracles that he had deceived those who had the mark of the beast and those who had worshiped the image of the beast.) The beast and the false prophet were both thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur. ²¹ Their armies were killed by the sword that comes out of the mouth of the one who was riding the horse; and all the birds ate all they could of their flesh.

 

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“Was he part of it?” asked the person rounding up troublemakers. “No” was the reply from a witness that cleared me of being questioned.

 

• I was relieved.
• I did not have to face the discipline ahead of those who caused problems.
• I was allowed to remain free.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw two parts of the unholy trinity thrown into the lake of fire. He then witnessed the armies that rose up against the one riding the horse, JESUS. The army was killed by the sword that comes out of the mouth of the one who was riding the horse.

 

My Observations:

• JESUS is the “Word” and will use the word to take down those who oppose HIM.
• Anything that mimics JESUS, tricking people to go away from HIM, will fall.
• Those who fight against the need for JESUS will be an accomplice to HIS murder and face HIS sentence.

 

Being declared “Not guilty” is a relief. I mean, I have stood before many judges and felt relieved each time my driving record was cleared. Yes, I got a lot of tickets! I deserved the sentence I faced. But I was released from any punishment. JESUS released me too.

 

HIS death, burial and resurrection showed me that HE was and is the true Savior, the Messiah. HE wiped away any guilt I had and said “I am HIS friend.” HE makes me part of HIS eternal family! I am grateful.

 

Challenge

• What does the writer say about those who seemed to be in power?
• Have you ever felt like giving up on GOD because it seemed like the enemy was winning?
• Will you continue to follow JESUS through good times and difficult times?

Dead Right

 

Dead Right

Revelation 16: ⁸ Then the fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and it was allowed to burn people with its fiery heat. ⁹ They were burned by the fierce heat, and they cursed the name of God, who has authority over these plagues. But they would not turn from their sins and praise his greatness.

 

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“You may not want to do what you are about to do” was the warning I received. But I felt strongly that “I” could do the thing I was trying to do. I did the thing and was able to complete what I set out to do, but the consequences of what I did were not accounted for.

 

• I was right, but ended up figuratively dead.
• I was able, but did not take into consideration the consequences of my actions.
• I did what I did and said what I said, but ended up in a worse situation than before the warning.

 

John, the disciple JESUS loved, saw the fourth angel pour out the fourth bowl containing GOD’s anger out on the sun. People were burned and they knew this was a curse from GOD, yet they refused to turn from their sins. They may have figured that they would be in control by rebelling against GOD directly.

 

My Observations:

• My heart needs to be protected from getting cold and stony against GOD.
• Whatever is in my heart will come out in my words and actions.
• GOD sees my heart and want to change it to follow HIM in a loving way.

 

I can do anything, but is anything I do good for me? I mean, if I rebel against GOD, is that a good idea? No! Unfortunately, there are times when I don’t want to listen to the warnings or even the corrections sent by GOD.

 

Fortunately for me, HE sends HIS soft correction to me and allows me to come back to HIM. HE always accepts my ask for forgiveness and restores me fully. Anyone who refuses to ask GOD for forgiveness may experience the pain of HIS wrath.

 

Challenge

• Why did the writer include who had the authority?
• Have you ever done something wrong and deserved to be corrected?
• Will you seek GOD’s correction in your life so HE can forgive you and set the wonderful plan HE has for you into action 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?

 

Off the Path

Off the Path

1 John 5: ¹⁶ If you see a believer commit a sin that does not lead to death, you should pray to God, who will give that person life. This applies to those whose sins do not lead to death. But there is sin which leads to death, and I do not say that you should pray to God about that. ¹⁷ All wrongdoing is sin, but there is sin which does not lead to death.

 

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“Stay on the path” were the words of wisdom given to us from the forest ranger. It was easy at first, but there was a point where the path was not as obvious. We took a wrong turn and noticed the trees were getting thicker. We kept going and could see light. It was a small cliff that had a fall into a river.

 

• Veering off the path was scary and I tried to use my instincts to get to safety.
• The direction I was going could have led to death.
• Every step I went in the wrong direction caused me to get closer and closer to danger.

 

John attempted to address one time sin versus a lifestyle of sin. He states “All wrongdoing is sin” to make sure that people were not trying to categorize types of sin to justify his or her actions. He attempted to get people off the path of a sinful lifestyle that could lead people away from GOD, especially if the relationship with HIM was not true in the first place.

 

My Observations:

• JESUS died for all my sins, past, present and future.
• Sin is very offensive to GOD and I should not take it lightly.
• There is a way of thinking that is dangerous to my wellbeing that believes I can sin all I want and be forgiven, which will lead to my destruction.

 

“There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death” is a scary quote to me. I mean, when the crowd says it’s right and my desires say it’s right, is everything I do or say right? No! There are some sinful desires, ways and words that are accepted by the world but are offensive to GOD. BUT HE always has a better way.

 

HE wants people to pray for each other, asking HIM to guide one another back to the path of life. HE knows we may innocently go down the wrong path by mistake. The problem comes when I stay on that path because I like it or my heart is too hard to turn back. I am glad GOD listens to prayers from others who may see my sin and want the best for me.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer recommend going to GOD versus confronting people?
• Have you ever accidentally done or said something wrong?
• If your heart has not been firmly planted in belief in JESUS, will you consider the path you are on may lead to death, so you can be placed back on GOD’s path of life today?

Rescue Plan

Rescue Plan

2 Peter 2: ⁴ God did not spare the angels who sinned, but threw them into hell, where they are kept chained in darkness, waiting for the Day of Judgment. ⁵ God did not spare the ancient world, but brought the flood on the world of godless people; the only ones he saved were Noah, who preached righteousness, and seven other people. ⁶ God condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, destroying them with fire, and made them an example of what will happen to the godless. ⁷ He rescued Lot, a good man, who was distressed by the immoral conduct of lawless people. ⁸ That good man lived among them, and day after day he suffered agony as he saw and heard their evil actions. ⁹ And so the Lord knows how to rescue godly people from their trials and how to keep the wicked under punishment for the Day of Judgment, ¹⁰ especially those who follow their filthy bodily lusts and despise God's authority.

 

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“You look miserable” someone said to me. I did not know it was showing on my face. The pressures of the position weighed heavily on me. Meanwhile, it seemed like some people, who I felt were cutthroat, were getting away with lies and manipulation.

 

• It seemed like there was no hope.
• It seemed like there would be no relief.
• It seemed like a good time to give up because powerful bullies were getting their way.

 

Peter goes into theology that most do not want to hear. He partially explains the wrath of GOD on those who are determined to do evil. He gives a few examples of how GOD takes sin seriously. But he also gives hope.

 

My Observations:

• I was lost in my many sins, BUT GOD gave me a gift which is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD.
• GOD saved me from all my sins, past, present and future.
• GOD’s authority is to be welcomed in my life so HE can correct me any time HE wants.

 

Falling down is not the problem, it is getting back up that is hard. I mean, when I fall to sin and it seems like my world is falling apart, at one time I had no place to turn. BUT GOD gave me a solution.

 

JESUS forgave me for my sins and gave me a COMFORTER who is willing to guide me daily. HE protects me from those who try to harm me, and HE protects me from myself. I am glad GOD has a rescue plan for me when thing look bleak.

 

Challenge

• Why does the writer explain this side of GOD?
• Have you ever been in a miserable situation where it seemed like there was no way out?
• Will you turn your eyes to GOD’s love for you and accept HIS plan of rescue by believing in HIS SON JESUS, who volunteered to save you and me today?

Gift of the Broken Curse

Gift of the Broken Curse

Galatians 3: ²¹ Does this mean that the Law is against God's promises? No, not at all! For if human beings had received a law that could bring life, then everyone could be put right with God by obeying it. ²² But the scripture says that the whole world is under the power of sin; and so the gift which is promised on the basis of faith in Jesus Christ is given to those who believe.

 

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Trying to remain dry, we stood under a rare covering at the bus stop. It was raining hard and we still had a long way to get home. My face brightened up as I saw movement of one of the busses. The bus driver ran through a puddle, splashing a wave that thoroughly soaked us. We were all wet.

 

• I was thoroughly soaked and felt miserable.
• I had nothing that could make me dry at that moment.
• I was not the cause of being wet, but I was still wet.

 

Humans face a serious dilemma. We are all cursed under the power of sin. Paul explains that the Law cannot release us from the curse, which is death. He does provide some Good News. There is a way to break the curse.

 

My Observations

• Sin once caused me to lose hope, BUT JESUS died for me and gave it back..
• I was wet with sin from head to toes, BUT GOD dried my tears and made me whole.
• It seemed like circumstances would get the best of me, BUT THE HOLY SPIRIT brought me comfort through difficult times.

 

Hopelessness is part of the curse of sin. I mean, when all seems lost and there is no way out, many turn to death as a solution. BUT JESUS is life. HE guides me and everyone else who believes in HIM, to a life of purpose.

 

HE saw my hopelessness that I did not cause, and died for me to save me. HE understands every temptation I can face and has the mercy to accept my confession. HE then pours out grace on me as a gift and I can breathe a sigh of relief that I am forgiven eternally. I am truly grateful for GOD’s wonderful gift.

 

Challenge

• Can you see good news in this passage?
• What does the writer say about “promises” and the “gift?”
• Are you weary trying to get yourself out of the current circumstance?
• Will you receive the gift of life that only CHRIST can provide by believing you need a Savior to guide you in this life and the next 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?

Another Path

 

Another Path

Romans 2: ⁶ For God will reward each of us according to what we have done. ⁷ Some people keep on doing good, and seek glory, honor, and immortal life; to them God will give eternal life. ⁸ Other people are selfish and reject what is right, in order to follow what is wrong; on them God will pour out his anger and fury. ⁹ There will be suffering and pain for all those who do what is evil, for the Jews first and also for the Gentiles. ¹⁰ But God will give glory, honor, and peace to all who do what is good, to the Jews first and also to the Gentiles. ¹¹ For God judges everyone by the same standard.

 

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Lying, cheating and stealing wasn’t working. I was still in debt with a broken car, broken relationships and to top it off, I was cleaning toilets for people who seemed to care less about actually having the “waste” go “in” the commode. “There has got to be a better way!” I exclaimed.

 

• There were times when I felt like giving up.
• There were times when I felt that I was even bad at doing wrong.
• There were times when I felt I was on the wrong path, but did not know how to get on a good one.

 

Paul writes about GOD’s two rewards. One will be welcome, the other despised. He then writes about the way to get the rewards. Some people who are already doing what is right in GOD’s eyes, will get the reward that is welcome. Those who reject what GOD says is right will receive the reward that is punishment.

 

• GOD wants me to do what is good according to HIS way.
• GOD wants me to seek HIS glory and honor every day.
• GOD wants me to pursue immortal life based on the belief that JESUS died for my sins.

 

Good versus evil is usually a topic that is scoffed at. I mean some of the nicest people could end up being eternally tormented, simply because they reject JESUS being the Savior who died for mankind and was raised from the dead.

 

On the other hand a sinner like me, who believes in JESUS, will be saved and rewarded, simply by believing. GOD gives me another path that is not so glamorous. It is a path to serve people without being known. I am glad GOD is excited about placing me on HIS path.

 

• Are you on the wrong path and do not know how to get on the right one?
• Is your heart so hard that you cannot surrender your life to GOD, so you stubbornly seek your own path?
• Will you let go of your path and allow GOD to heal you so you can be used for HIS great and marvelous purpose today?

Okay, do your thing

 

Okay, do your thing

Romans 1: ²⁶ Because they do this, God has given them over to shameful passions. Even the women pervert the natural use of their sex by unnatural acts. ²⁷ In the same way the men give up natural sexual relations with women and burn with passion for each other. Men do shameful things with each other, and as a result they bring upon themselves the punishment they deserve for their wrongdoing.

 

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Thinking of another response I argued my point. The person, who was simply trying to give me advice said, “Okay, do your thing.” I kept on my path and ran into the problems he was trying to warn me about.

 

• There were times when I did not listen.
• There were times when I did what I wanted to do.
• There were times when I followed my heart, but inside was something bad.

 

Paul explains there would be some people who explain away GOD so they can do what they want to do. By doing this, some people would accept a path that was not defined by GOD. Some women would choose unnatural sex acts and men would choose men for sex.

 

• GOD wants me to ask “What do YOU want?”
• GOD wants me to follow HIS way, especially when I don’t want to.
• GOD wants me to understand that HE is the creator and knows the best way.

 

“Okay, do your thing” is a difficult sentence from GOD. I mean, HE has so much grace that HE allows me to sin as much as I want. The problem is, I can become so accustomed to the sin that I question HIS laws and HIS existence, simply because I do not like the rule. BUT GOD still has compassion.

 

HE allows anyone who believes in JESUS to be saved, no matter how deep in sin the person is. HE looks at any sin as the same. Lies, racism and sex outside of HIS definition are equally abysmal to HIM. That’s why HE chose to die for me instead of punishing me. Anyone who believes in JESUS surrenders sin little by little. I am glad HE gives me chance after chance.

 

• Are you arguing the existence of GOD because you do not like HIS rule?
• Do you push HIS love away to do sex your way?
• Will you believe in the truth, which is JESUS, and allow HIM to guide you to a life filled with purpose and abundance today?

Reasoning

Reasoning

Acts 17: When Paul and his companions had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a Jewish synagogue. ² As was his custom, Paul went into the synagogue, and on three Sabbath days he reasoned with them from the Scriptures, ³ explaining and proving that the Messiah had to suffer and rise from the dead. “This Jesus I am proclaiming to you is the Messiah,” he said. ⁴ Some of the Jews were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, as did a large number of God-fearing Greeks and quite a few prominent women.

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“This doesn’t make sense” I said. I was struggling to understand the concept and was stuck on a couple of minor details. When someone explained the concepts, without using technical terms, I understood what was being taught. I understood the reason we were doing what we were doing.

• There are times when I don’t understand.
• There are times when I get stuck on minor concepts.
• There are times when I need someone to explain some things I get stuck on.

Paul reasoned with the people about JESUS for three weeks. He pointed out that the Messiah is JESUS, who had to suffer and rise from the dead. After appealing to their logic, many people believed. Paul was able to explain JESUS well enough that people sought HIM.

• GOD wants me to logically believe in HIM.
• GOD wants me to understand HIS love for me.
• GOD wants me to be able to explain who JESUS is.

Talking about JESUS can be an emotional subject. I mean HE is pure love and showed me compassion. But there is a logical side to GOD. HE created humans with free will to choose HIM or not. It took me a while to grasp the logic behind HIS creation.

While I don’t fully understand everything GOD does, HE supplies me with faith to hop over the gaps in knowledge. Faith is logical and I reason to believe in JESUS.

• Are you reasoning GOD out of your life?
• Do you look at things logically without seeing GOD in everything?
• Will you use your reasoning to understand GOD’s love for you as you seek a better understanding by reading about JESUS in HIS word?

Hearing Test

Hearing Test

Acts 3: ²² For Moses truly said to the fathers, ‘The Lord your God will raise up for you a Prophet like me from your brethren. Him you shall hear in all things, whatever He says to you. ²³ And it shall be that every soul who will not hear that Prophet shall be utterly destroyed from among the people.’ ²⁴ Yes, and all the prophets, from Samuel and those who follow, as many as have spoken, have also foretold these days. ²⁵ You are sons of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying to Abraham, ‘And in your seed all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’ ²⁶ To you first, God, having raised up His Servant Jesus, sent Him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from your iniquities.”

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Hearing aids were huge contraptions I was scared of getting when I heard we had to take a hearing test. What if I can’t hear? I said to myself. Nervously I slipped on the headphones and heard sounds, raising my hand at the faintest noise. I passed. But when I got in trouble and someone called my name, I ignored it. “Do you hear me calling you?” They said.

• There were times when I did not want to hear what others were saying.
• There were times when I tuned people out who were “on my nerves.”
• There were times when I listened to the information but was thinking about something else.

Peter spoke about Moses, Samuel and Abraham regarding prophecies they said about JESUS. “HIM you shall hear in all things, whatever HE says to you” was a statement to those who listened to JESUS. But those who did not listen would be destroyed.

• GOD tells me of HIS promise to save me from destruction.
• GOD tells me of HIS promise to protect me from eternal death.
• GOD tells me of HIS promise to hold onto me so the evil one cannot get me out of HIS hand.

Not listening to the fact that JESUS became a human, died for the sins of mankind, and was raised from the dead, is what sends a person to an eternal separation from GOD in a place of eternal increasing torment. GOD made it easy to believe, yet there will be some who chose not to.

GOD gave everyone free will to choose HIM. This is the only scenario where love can exist. I can choose to be with my loving GOD, who cares for me in every way, or not to. I choose JESUS as my Savior and I am grateful for HIS protection.

• Are you wrestling with how JESUS is GOD and became a human who died and was raised?
• Do you think there is no need to be saved from anything?
• Will you consider “love” as the reason GOD did all of this specifically for you?
• When human love has and will fail you, will you accept GOD’s everlasting love though CHRIST our Savior today?

Small reference, huge message

Small reference, huge message

Acts 2: ²⁵ For David says concerning Him:

‘I foresaw the Lord always before my face,
For He is at my right hand, that I may not be shaken.

²⁶ Therefore my heart rejoiced, and my tongue was glad;
Moreover my flesh also will rest in hope.

²⁷ For You will not leave my soul in Hades,
Nor will You allow Your Holy One to see corruption.
²⁸ You have made known to me the ways of life;
You will make me full of joy in Your presence.’

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In the department gathering, normal activities were discussed. This was a very large department so there was a lot to be said. In that meeting there was a tiny mention about my promotion. Reality sank in as I had already accepted the responsibilities but now others knew.

• One small mention about me meant a lot.
• One tiny mention about me was incredible.
• One miniscule mention about me showed others where confidence was placed.

David wrote some great things about his relationship with GOD. He speaks about the confidence he has because of the LORD. Excitement exudes from his words as he writes about joy and hope. He makes a tiny, but huge mention about JESUS, the HOLY ONE not being allowed to see corruption.

• GOD loves me and give me confidence.
• GOD loves me and fills my heart with joy.
• GOD loves me and has opened my eyes to the salvation of JESUS.

Only GOD can open the eyes mankind. JESUS has done all HE could to show HE loves us, even to the point of death. But death could not hold HIM. HE is alive and is building a place for those who believe in the need for HIS salvation. I am grateful HE never leaves me.

• What are you seeking?
• Are you looking for an existence with no consequence at the end of life?
• Will you look at GOD’s love and see HIS desire for you to turn back to HIM so HE can be with you eternally?

Ignorance of The Law

Ignorance of The Law

John 15: ²² If I had not come and spoken to them, they would have no sin, but now they have no excuse for their sin. ²³ He who hates Me hates My Father also. ²⁴ If I had not done among them the works which no one else did, they would have no sin; but now they have seen and also hated both Me and My Father. ²⁵ But this happened that the word might be fulfilled which is written in their law, ‘They hated Me without a cause.’

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Before I stood in front of the judge, I wrote out my argument. As I watched others explain themselves, I listened intently to a similar case. “There was no sign posting the speed” said the person. I waited for the judges’ response. “Ignorance of the law is no excuse” said the judge. The person was fined more for pleading not guilty. I threw away my pitiful defense.

• “I didn’t know that was wrong” used to be my defense.
• ”I didn’t know I did anything bad” used to be my excuse.
• “Everyone else is doing it” used to be my rationale for doing something wrong but justifying it being right.

JESUS explains HE is the key to fulfilling all scripture. In other words, there are some extreme declarations about humanity that could only be fulfilled by one person. JESUS said “If HE had never come, then people could not be judged for their ignorance of the Law.” So why am I accused of sin?

• JESUS placed HIS Law in my heart when HE created me.
• GOD threw Satan out of heaven, who in turn made the first person sin, causing me to have sin.
• GOD declared that if anyone sins they would be eternally separated from HIM, which affected me.

Ignorance of GOD’s Law will be no excuse. JESUS placed The Word in every heart, so every human is capable of loving GOD. Unfortunately there will be some who fight the HOLY SPIRIT enough to reject HIM. GOD wants me to reach those who are rejecting HIS inherent love.

HE wants me to first admit I need HIM because all have sinned. Next, when I believe that JESUS is my Savior I can then confess HE is my only answer. Finally, HE sends me out with this belief to seek first HIS kingdom. It is all about JESUS. We hated HIM without a cause. I am grateful for HIS forgiveness.

• Are you ignorant of your sin?
• Do you think others are sinning and you are not?
• Will you confess to GOD you need HIM to clean your sin daily, so you can reach others the way HE wants you to?

Responsible One

John 3: ³¹ The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is from the earth belongs to the earth, and speaks as one from the earth. The one who comes from heaven is above all. ³² He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. ³³ Whoever has accepted it has certified that God is truthful. ³⁴ For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. ³⁵ The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. ³⁶ Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.

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“Stay in your lane” is a term I’ve heard jokingly on commercials and movies. It means, be responsible for what you are responsible for and stay out of someone else’s responsibility. But sometimes I want to drive my car and drive for the “crazy” driver next to me. If I could just figure out how to hop from car to car, then we would both be safe.

• Sometimes I want to be responsible for everything in order to keep things going the way “I” want them to go.
• Sometimes I feel I should be making all the decisions, even in areas I don’t understand.
• Sometimes I feel I should be in control even if the one who is in control is doing a good job.

John explains responsibilities of the FATHER, the SON, the HOLY SPIRIT and humans in this passage. Only the “one” who is from above or heaven can talk about above or heaven. Humans cannot.

• GOD says to me “Accept the testimony of JESUS and you will be saved.”
• GOD says to me “Believe in JESUS and receive eternal life.”
• GOD says to me “If you reject JESUS, you will receive MY wrath.”

JESUS, who is GOD, is the only “one” who can talk about GOD, because HE is GOD. HE sends the HOLY SPIRIT without limit to those who believe in HIM. The FATHER has given everything to JESUS, who decides and knows who loves HIM.

The true gospel is “Whoever believes in the SON has eternal life, but whoever rejects the SON will not see life, for GOD’s wrath remains on them”. I am grateful for JESUS and I believe in  HIS salvation.

• Are you trying to do what GOD should be doing?
• Do you feel you are in control of your life?
• Will you allow JESUS to be your savior and let HIM guide your life today?