flashlight

We are entering a New Year and we don't know what lies ahead.  And just like when the power goes out and it is pitch black, we need a flashlight to find our way so we need the light of GOD’s WORD to know which way to go.

Psalm 119:105 THY WORD is a lamp unto my feet and a flashlight for my path.

There is a lot of deception in our world but we can't know what is false if we don't know the WORD of GOD.  It is like we are in the dark with no flashlight if we don't have GOD's WORD to guide us.  We literally need the WORD of GOD every day.

2 Timothy 2:15  Study to show yourself approved unto GOD a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing (rightly handling and skillfully teaching) the WORD of Truth.

We shouldn't just sit back and let everyone else figure out the WORD for us. We need to get GOD's answers for our OWN lives. We are EACH to study out the WORD of Truth as it applies to US. The more WORD you know, the more it will work in your life. Get into the Bible and study out ONE scripture today to see what GOD has to say to you.  You can do it,  for GOD has given each and every believer in the LORD JESUS CHRIST the Holy SPIRIT to help him understand GOD's WORD and ways.  HE will explain what you don't understand and teach you if you only ask HIM to.

So dig into the WORD!

hugs

Sharon

for such a time as this

Today is the last day of 2014.  When the clock strikes midnight we enter into 2015?  What lies ahead?

We know GOD has preset all times and places for things to happen Acts 17:26b, Acts 1:7 and that HE did it for a reason Acts 17:27.  That reason being  that people would reach out to HIM.   With that in mind, why do you suppose HE chose the particular time for JESUS to be born?

When the fullness of the time had come, GOD sent forth HIS SON.  Galatians 4:4

What could be the reason the timing of JESUS’ birth is referred to as the fullness of time by GOD?

History shows us that centuries before JESUS CHRIST was born, Alexander the Great conquered most of the known world, bringing with him the Greek culture and trade language.  When he died, the Roman Empire picked up where Alexander left off and expanded the territory under the unifying influence of culture and the trade language of the Greeks.  It was under this Roman rule that the crucifixion took place, where the blood of CHRIST was shed for us.   It was under the rule of Rome that conditions were made ready for the spread of the gospel across 3 continents through good roads, territorial boundaries free of “passport” restrictions and a unifying trade language-Koine Greek.  GOD had put all the pieces in place for the perfect time to send HIS SON.

Today, like back then GOD has synchronized everything and has prepared in advance good works for us believers in JESUS to walk in.  Ephesians 2:10 Anyone who sees or hears the news knows, we live in a time of quickly expanding knowledge, but also an unstable and turbulent time with mobs and rioting in US cities, trashing of GOD’s moral values and unrestrained degrading self indulgence.  Yet GOD has chosen you and me to live in this time and place.  HE has done it for a reason.  I know that for a fact, because HE has said that HE does nothing without a cause.  Therefore,  I wonder as we enter into the New Year of 2015 for what specific assignments has HE brought us to where we are, at such a time as this?

I don’t know the details, but I do know without a doubt it is to cause lost people to reach out to HIM and be saved,  for the GOD who cannot lie has declared that HE has set all times and places for that very purpose.

Hugs

Sharon 

Head inthe sand?

Ostriches are amazing flightless birds that have been clocked as running 43 MPH.  They have some quirks, one leading to the idiom bury your head in the sand which means to ignore or hide from obvious signs of danger.  It alludes to an ostrich, which is believed incorrectly to hide it’s head in a hole in the ground when it sees danger.  Actually  when lying down and hiding from predators, the birds lay their heads and necks flat on the ground, making them appear like a mound of earth from a distance, aided by the heat haze in their hot, dry habitat. This defensive behavior of lying low makes them appear from a distance to have their head buried.

As I soaked in the tub last night, I was reading was a history book written by Christians about the times just before and during JESUS CHRIST’s life.  Graphic details they gave triggered thoughts that were not good.  So I gave those thoughts to GOD, shut the book and I am taking it back to the library.  Today I opened an email from a dear, dear friend and it contained slurs about people that although may be true, at least in part, directed my thoughts where they should not go, to think and act by human standards and not GOD’s.  So I deleted the email.

Many will call me closed minded or burying my head in the sand.  Actually, I am just following GOD’s instructions that I found in the Bible.

And GOD honored that by confirming my choices to shut the book and then delete the email as I read HIS words in Matthew 6:22,23 about how the eye is the lamp that gives light to the body.  If what I look at/ think about (take in and mull over) is pure (undefiled) then I will have all the light I need to see clearly and show me the way I should go.  But if what I look at/ think about is defiled by human standards and values, I am in total darkness.  

The word all in those verses for both cases shook me for a moment.  Just a little bit of human standard defilement brings in darkness/ clouds things so much, throwing off my perspective that I don’t know the right way to go.  Must be why GOD urges us not to be conformed to this world but to be transformed (metamorphisized-  you know like to change from a caterpillar to a butterfly) by the renewing of our minds so that we may test and approve the good, acceptable and (not or) perfect will of GOD.

That really shows how important what we focus on is.  We need to recognize bad, but focus on good. 

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, 1807-1882 gave a brilliant example: "And in despair I bowed my head: 'There is no peace on earth', I said. For hate is strong, and mocks the song of 'peace on earth, good will to men.' Yet pealed the bells more loud and deep. 'God is not dead, nor doth He sleep. The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, with peace on earth, good will to men.'" –

So where do you, do I go to get our perspective?  Is it the wisdom of this world or the wisdom hidden in CHRIST that we choose to live by? As for me I choose to live by the wisdom found in GOD's word.

Hugs

Sharon

Happy New Year

As the New Year approaches let's look ahead and not back.  David Curtis (Aly Curtis) reminded me Saturday of one of my favorite scriptures. 

 

Philippians 3:12-16 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead,  I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.  All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. Only let us live up to what we have already attained.(learned)

 

(Thank YOU LORD for loving us and accepting us in JESUS.  Help us forget what is behind (to deliberately continually forget the old ways of doing things, forgive and forget the hurts, pushing away those thoughts of the past & refusing to call up the past) and help us to focus on what lies ahead... enabling us to press on, with arms outstretched, to grab a hold of that for which CHRIST JESUS took hold of us..

Wow!  LORD, that amazes me that YOU took hold of me for specific reasons (assignments) ... enable me LORD & focus me step by step… I don’t know precisely what YOU have for me to do… I don’t see the big picture yet, but YOU can lead me whether I understand or not (Proverbs 3:5-7) FATHER GOD work into me to will and to do that which is pleasing to YOU. (Philippians 2:13) Holy Spirit, stir me up and energize me to press on to grab a hold on that which Christ JESUS took hold of me for.  According to YOUR word, fulfill YOUR purpose for my life I ask in the name of JESUS.

 

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR

which way?

 

What do you think of when I say the word sign?  For me a specific billboard between Pueblo and Colorado Springs comes to mind.  But signs can be big or small... even street numbers and which of us have not looked diligently at house or business  numbers to find a place we have never been to before?  Signs are any kind of visual graphic created to display information to a particular audience but typically a sign's purpose is to show the way to a particular thing and confirm it is.

 

As we are about to enter a New Year, we may wonder what direction we should go.  Now what I am going to say is only for those who want to fulfill GOD's purpose for them and are willing to do things HIS way. For only those willing to do what GOD wants are guaranteed access to HIS direction John 7:17 and such promises as:

   Proverbs 3:5-7 ..trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge HIM and HE will direct your paths.  Be not wise in your own eyes...

   James 1:5 If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of GOD who give to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.  But when he asks he must believe...(believe what?  Believe GOD is and that HE will reward any who diligently seek HIM Hebrews 11:6... in other words... you must believe that GOD can and will direct you and remember HE is powerful and can and will keep the devil from deceiving us if we are seeking HIS counsel.)

 

You might think I am close minded but GOD said that not me and others (those not willing to do things GOD's way) are like Alice in Wonderland when she asked the Cheshire cat "Will you please tell me which way I ought to go from here?" the cat answered, "That depends a good deal on where you want to get to." Alice replied, " I don't much mind where..."  "Then it doesn't matter which way you go."  said the cat.

 

But GOD does care where we get to and GOD is big into signs because HE wants us to know the way we are to go.  HE gives signs to confirm what HE has already told us (placed in our hearts to do).

   In Genesis you read that GOD made the sun, the moon and the stars for a few reasons.  One of those reasons were to be signs...  Just think about it... sailors long before modern day instruments, navigated (found their direction) strictly by looking at the stars.  And the wise men found JESUS by following the star. Although we are not given the details, someone had to place in their hearts that strange idea to follow that remarkable star for normal stars follow an orbit... they don't lead to and stand over a specific stable. Matthew 2:9

 

   When the angel spoke to the shepherds concerning the Savior who was born that very night, he gave them a confirming sign... and this shall be a sign, you will find a baby wrapped and lying in a manager... Luke 2:9

 

GOD says in Deuteronomy 30:11-14 that HE doesn't hide the way we should go from us, nor is it too far away, nor do we need to ask others to go find it for us for HE has placed it in us. (those nudges, that knowing I should do this or that) 

 

GOD says the same thing in the New Testament in Philippians 2:13  Amp. (It is not your own strength) it is GOD Who is all the while effectually at work in you--energizing and creating in you the desire and power both to will (want) and to work (enable) you to do HIS good pleasure. (to find the way we should go)

 

If you are wondering if you should go this way or that, or wonder if you have taken a wrong turn it is OK to ask GOD to confirm the way you should go.  GOD promises that HE will point out the right way by whispering it in our ears if we are to turn to the left hand or to the right.  Isaiah 30:21 Look what HE told a king:  if you will not believe, you will not stand... so ask the LORD your GOD for a sign... Isaiah 7:9,10

 

Remember, our LORD JESUS gave his disciple Thomas the sign he asked for John 20:26,28 and also gave all HIS disciples many other signs.  John:20:30  Why?  GOD knows us and knows we need the encouragement of confirmation to keep us on tract so that we will go in the way we should go.

 

Aren't you glad we have a Savior who has been there and is now leading us in the way we should go? Hebrews 2:10  so let's fix our eyes on HIM Hebrews 12:1-3 and following HIS directions.

 

Hugs,

Sharon

timing

Timing is a key element in life.  It was amazing to see how important timing was as I read the Biblical book of Esther.  It made me more aware of how interwoven my life is with others like in a jig-saw puzzle. Through out the book it was crystal clear how GOD works behind the scenes setting the stage for the next act and synchronizing each step of the way.  HIS getting everything into place is why we have delays, things must wait the appointed time. 

An often repeated Bible promise began a prophetic word sent to me.  ( I Thessalonians 5: 20,21 tells us not to despise prophesy but to test it and see if it jells with what the Bible says)  Know that I am with you and I will ever leave you or forsake you.  Hebrews 13:5 You will fulfill all the number of your days and your assignment.  Do not shoot the messenger, as Rhema (GOD's word for your situation) will be important to guide you through the challenges ahead. 

That short word is a reminder that GOD has things I am to do and that I will be facing challenges along the way and it gives assurance that HE is with me and will see to it that I will fulfill my assignments.  That word is general enough to include you and yet specific enough to encourage me.

Let's remember as we enter a new year full of potential, that GOD has individual plans for you and for me and for each and every believer.  Jeremiah 29:11 Those plans are interwoven so it is important we go with the nudges (do what we know we should to) Nothing just happens.  GOD prepares and synchronizes the way ahead. Ephesians 2:10 The LORD ALMIGHTY has called you to specific work and given you specific assignments and areas of authority just as HE has for me. 2 Corinthians 10:12- 14.  Sometimes HE chooses to expand our territory, puts us on furlough or transfers us but knowing that it is GOD alone who determines the exact times and places Acts 17:26,26 and that even the hard things that happen are always done for a good reason... Ezekiel 14:23 and that every seeming delay is necessary with  nothing happenstance coming our way helps me endure the hard things.  I hope it helps you as well.  And the best part is the Creator of the Universes guarantees the result!

hugs

Sharon

tree and its fruit

When we moved to Pueblo, there was a tree in our new back yard. We had no clue what kind it was for it was little more than a few sticks on one side and half the tree was a blackened stump.  We were not even sure if it was alive. But Mac cut back the long sticks.  He cut them way, way back and I cried and cried for I thought he had killed any chance for my tree to live.  But come spring we had leaves and branches sprouted.  It has been a few years, and now we know what kind of tree it is for it bears peaches.  As from the beginning of time, it now is a fruit tree producing fruit after its own kind. Now my tree doesn’t try to make peaches, it is the natural outflow of being a peach tree that peaches grow.  But you know what?  It doesn’t bear apples or cherries.  Why? Because it in neither an apple or a cherry tree.  It bears peaches because it is a peach tree.  Duh!

This morning as I began reading in the New Testament of the awesome Hebrew/ Greek/ English Interlinear Bible my daughter Shirley gave me for Christmas, I came across the same concept of producing fruit after its own kind.

Matthew 3:8 Therefore, bring forth fruit worthy of repentance.

In other words: if you are really repenting of your sins, things will change in your life.  Just like my peach tree, it is not so much your trying, but as a natural outflow of a changed heart’s view on life changes will happen in what you do.

James speaks of the same thing:  James 2:20 Faith without works is dead..  Real faith bears fruit, just like my peach tree.  It doesn’t groan in an effort to make peaches, but when my peach tree is healthy and the frost has not nipped the buds, peaches just grow.  So as you grow in faith, you will bear more and more fruit.  That is, if your faith is healthy by eating the Word of GOD and drinking in GOD’s presence in prayer.

But just like with my peach tree, there is a growth process. My peach tree did not bear luscious peaches that 1^st year. The unproductive branches had to be cut off.  In the same way GOD prunes believers of things unproductive in our lives.  Sometimes it is painful but it will produce the fruit of righteousness in those exercised by it.  Hebrews 12:11  So don’t despise the discipline (pruning) of the LORD… for whom the LORD loves HE disciplines (prunes)… for if you endure discipline (pruning) GOD is treating you like sons… Hebrews 12:5-7 and it will produce the fruit of righteousness in those exercised by it!

JESUS spoke of this outflow of a changed heart when his disciples wanted to call fire down on a town who rejected JESUS.  HE said, “You don’t (yet) know what kind of spirit you are.  For the Son of Man did not come to destroy but to save.”  Luke 9:55,56 lit. 

But they learned, didn’t they?  And so can we.

Hugs

Sharon

its all in the name

When I named my 2^nd daughter Kari, I had no idea how popular that name was that year.  It seems names go in trends.  One of the hottest baby name trends for 2015 has to do name endings.   Parents putting trendy endings like "bella" for girls or "ett" for boys before whatever comes at the start of a name. The super-popular Isabella is joined by Arabella, Mirabella, and Rosabella, while the fashionable Emmett welcomes brothers Beckett, Everett, and Bennett. Other stylish endings include "er" as in Harper and Miller and "s" for seemingly any boys’ name, from Atticus to Silas to Zacharias.

It is fun to see what names mean and often parents take the meaning of a name into consideration when they name their babies.  Such was the case with GOD when HE chose a name for HIS SON.  At 2 different times an angel related GOD’s message of what to name HIS SON.  1^st he told Mary Luke 1:31 and later Joseph Matthew 1:21 which left no doubt in their minds what to name the baby.

Then as Mary lay in the hay in the stable after her baby was born, I think she must have looked over at him lying in the manager and with wonder thought of her baby’s name, JESUS.  It meant something very special.  The angel had said: “You shall call HIS name JESUS for HE will save HIS people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21

Acts 2:21 Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD (JESUS) shall be saved.

Acts 4:10,12then know this, you and all the people of Israel: it is by the name of JESUS CHRIST of Nazareth, who you crucified but whom GOD raised from the dead, that this man stand before  you healed.  ..Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.

Acts 22:16and now what are you waiting for?  Arise and be baptized and also wash away your sins by calling on HIS name.

I Corinthians 6:11 And such were some of you, but you were washed (of your sins), but you were sanctified (set apart for GOD), but you were justified (made just as if you had never sinned) in the name of the LORD JESUS CHRIST by the SPIRIT of our GOD.

Have you called on the name of JESUS to wash away your sins and save you?  If not, what are you waiting for? 

Hugs

Sharon

scoffers

The Chronicles of Narnia is an amazing CS Lewis children’s series which is a delightful analogy of GOD and Christian life.  In it a lion called Aslan is a picture of the Lion of Judah, our LORD JESUS CHRIST.  Now in the 6th book, 8^th chapter a sorcerer, his innocent nephew and girl pal, a cabby with his horse and a witch find themselves in a black nothingness.  But they hear soft music, and began seeing things pop up.  It isn’t long before they saw a connection between the notes and what then would appear.  Far away on the horizon light began to appear…and then they saw the singer… it was a lion.  On every note he sang something appeared… a blade of grass, a little flower and on and on.  The children and the Cabby watched in wonder but the uncle said, “a lion cannot sing!”  From that moment on the sorcerer could no longer hear music but rather he heard a lion’s roar that grew louder and more intense.  Frightened, he turned and ran.

The Uncle heard the music and saw the lion but when he refused to believe what he clearly heard and saw something awful happened.  He was blinded and deafened to the truth for he had hardened his heart against the truth. You see he had turned his back on the light of the truth and was facing darkness. That is exactly what happens when: instead of pondering and examining and testing a new concept, we scoff Acts 13:41 or despise an idea new to us I Thessalonians 5: 20-21; suppressing or pushing away truth we don’t want to hear Romans 1:18-21 and thereby refusing to love (accept)  the truth, 2:Thessalonians 2:10.

When we oppose the truth in this way, are hearts are hardened and we are unable to understand.  We remain deaf and blind to the truth unless and until, GOD opens the eyes of our understanding to the truth once more 2 Timothy 2:25.  Then we get another chance to believe or refuse the truth 2 Timothy 2:26. Praying that GOD give light on an issue to those who have pushed away the truth is one of the things GOD asks us to pray for concerning others.

Therefore let it be known to you, that through JESUS, whom GOD raised from the dead, forgiveness of sins is announced to you.  And through HIM everyone who believes in HIM is freed from all things from which you could not be freed through the law of Moses.  Be careful therefore that the thing spoken of by the Prophet may not come on you.  “Behold, you scoffers and marvel and perish.  For I (GOD) am accomplishing a work in your days- a work which you will never believe…”  Acts 13:35-41

And why will they never believe?  Because they scoffed at /mocked the truth and refused to consider or believe. 

What happens if someone does not believe?  JESUS said, “ I tell you the truth,  if you do not believe I am HE, you will die in your sins. John 8:24    Then what?  The wages of sin is death but the free gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD. Romans 6:23 

GOD doesn't want any to perish HE has gone to great lengths to prove HIS love and goodness and provide a way of escape but HE gave us the choice.  The choice to believe and trust HIM or the devil.  The choice is yours. 

Hugs

Sharon

keep calm and carry on

"Keep Calm & Carry On."  This message 1st appeared in Great Britain as World War II began in 1939. The Ministry of Information was formed by the British Government as a department responsible for publicity and propaganda during the Second World War.  In late 1939 after the outbreak of the war, the MOI was appointed to design a number of morale boosting posters that would be displayed across the British Isles during the turbulent times that lay ahead offset panic & discouragement of the war.  The 3^rd slogan chosen was “ Keep calm and carry on”.

The slogan sounds British to me, for Brits are characterized as having an unemotional attitude, that “ stiff upper lip” sort of thing.

GOD called the Jews to come out of exile and go back to Jerusalem and build HIS temple. Therefore, they could claim: “We are the servants of the God of heaven & earth.” -Ezra 5:11  At first they had fantastic support for the LORD moved King Cyrus to command the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple and also supplied the funds for it.  But once in the ruins and building begun interference after interference came and their opponents did many things to frustrate their purpose.  Though it took a long time, reinforcement eventually came when a plan of their enemies backfired and King Darius issued a decree that allowed them to finish the work and even supplied to them what was needed. See Ezra 1 through 6

When GOD calls you and me to do something, you and I can also claim: “We are the servants of the God of heaven & earth”. But when (not if) all of a sudden we run into obstacles, roadblocks, and delays, let’s remember that the enemy only fights against what he is afraid of. Talk to JESUS about what’s happening and then as the British would say, “Keep calm and carry on.”   GOD's Holy SPIRIT will give power to our witness and to our work.

Hugs

Sharon

Push away

When you were little was there ever a food you could not stand and if someone put it before you- you wanted to push it away?  Today I want to share with you concerning pushing away.

Believers in JESUS have eternal forgiveness of sin, yet during time on earth believers still sin.   Therefore they will have in time, on the earth consequences for those actions.  On the other hand, if we believers judge ourselves and confess any wrong we detect we will be cleansed.  I John 1:9 & I Corinthians 11:31 we will in this way avoid GOD’s in time, on earth discipline (which is only for believers and has to do with consequences and growth.) Hebrews 12:5-8, Since the eternal punishment for sin was paid for on the cross, and gained access to through believing in JESUS the SON of GOD, believers will not be condemned with the world. I Corinthians 11:31,32 

Note: sin gives the devil/demons legal authority to harass us.  When JESUS carried our sins & died for them on the cross HE disarmed the demons. Colossians 2:14-15 But when we choose to sin, we invite the demons back & they get footholds in our lives.

Recently, we talked about this: how the devil gets a foothold in believers lives through sin. Ephesians 4:26,27   I would like to take it a bit further and there is an exciting verse in I John 5 that I want to discuss with you but before I can go there,  a few things need to be reviewed.  GOD says we learn, line upon line, precept upon precept…  So 1^st a few lines.

JESUS CHRIST didn’t teach his disciples on HIS own. It is more than JESUS did not speak HIS own words. John 14:10. In Acts 1 we learn that JESUS, while still on earth, taught HIS disciples through the Holy SPIRIT. I Corinthians 2:10-14, John14:26  That means the Holy SPIRIT took what JESUS said and translated it, explaining its meaning. Paul followed JESUS’ example and depended on the Holy SPIRIT when he spoke or acted. I Corinthians 2:4,5   It is what is happening when someone speaks or we read the Bible and a verse or even just a phrase jumps out at us and we clearly understand something we never quite could grasp before.

We only understand the things of GOD as the Holy SPIRIT teaches us.  HIS witness both through illumination in our minds or miracles is clearly understood by us humans, because HE makes it plain to each of us.  That is why we need to heed the inner nudging. But being we have free choice, we can push away truth (refusing to accept it… just as Eve did in the garden) Romans 1:18-22.

There is one truth above all others that must be believed.  Since one of the Holy SPIRIT’s main roles on earth is to show men JESUS, to convict unbelieving men of sin, of righteousness and of judgment.  I believe that to refuse to believe JESUS was sent from heaven to reconcile man to GOD is blaspheming the Holy SPIRIT.

The pushing away truth or suppressing it is also referred to as- not receiving the love of the truth ( This sin eventually if continued in, such pushing away of truth, results in GOD handing over a person to his own deceptions Romans 1:24,26,28,32, to the point that GOD HIMSELF gives them strong delusion that they will believe the lie because they refused to love the truth and thus be saved. 2Thessalonians 2:10-12 This is the one and only eternal or unforgivable sin called blaspheme of the Holy SPIRIT Mark 3:28,29 (because they say HIS witness is a lie and not truth.)

JESUS taught on the eternal unforgivable sin when the religious leaders said HE operated by the power of demons. Mark 3:22-29  We might not say, the uneasiness concerning an issue that we feel are demonic,  but how often have you or I pushed away a small voice of correction- saying “that is not so”?

I clearly remember reading a verse about a mule and feeling a nudging… I understood it to be talking about stubbornness, but I said, I am not stubborn.  But my husband is, so GOD must want me to pray for his stubbornness.  I pushed away the truth. But GOD is merciful and eventually I did see and accept the truth about my own stubbornness.

There is one truth above all others that must be believed.  Pushing away that truth leads to condemnation,2 Thessalonians 1:6-10 and 2:10-12

****Now finally, I John 5:16  If anyone sees his brother (another believer) committing a sin, not unto death, he shall ask and GOD will give him (Zoan) deliverance/ life/ spiritual insight  to the one sinning not unto death. (the sin of rejecting the Holy SPIRIT’s witness John 16:7-11 of the truth that JESUS was sent by GOD the FATHER to die for the sins of mankind- John 8:24) There is a sin unto death, I do not say you can ask concerning it.  This is saying that we can pray for the sins of others and GOD will give them spiritual insight, but each person must choose to either accept or reject JESUS on their own.  We can’t do it for them.

2 Timothy 2:24-26 And the slave of the LORD must not be quarrelsome, but be kind to all, able to teach, patient when wronged, in meekness (acknowledging- there goes I except for the grace of GOD therefore with gentleness) instructing those opposing (the truth and thus themselves),  If perhaps GOD may give them repentance for a full knowledge of the truth  And they may return (come) to their senses, (and choose) to escape out of the snare of the devil having been held captive (he who sins is a slave to sin  John 8:34)  by the devil to do his will.

When I see someone sinning the 1^st thing I am to do is examine myself lest I fall….for Romans 2:1 says that the very sins I see in others are, in me (like my stubbornness) perhaps I have already dealt with a similar temptation so it is in me in dormant or held remission in by the grace of GOD.  The 2^nd thing is to pray to GOD for the ones sinning, standing the gap and confessing his sin so that GOD will give them light/ spiritual insight in that area and HE promises that HE will do that very thing.

Warning, we can confess and receive for others spiritual insight but the moment they choose to sin, the demons gain authority to deceive them again.  Sometimes that means we have to keep praying over and over and over.  It isn’t GOD hasn’t answered but that HE must do it time and time again until that one, (like me in my stubbornness) grabs hold of the truth.

Remember JESUS promised:  If we are willing to do HIS will we shall know if what is said comes from GOD or is of another.  John 7:17  And GOD cannot lie!

Hugs

Sharon

Access

At one time I worked on a secure Air Force base, as a contractor working for the MDA.  In order to have access to base, I had to have a special badge.  But before I could get that, there had to be security checks made on me.  Once I had the badge, I could go through secure portals to the secure area freely by just swiping my badge.  But without the badge, I could not enter in.

For unto us a child is born (Mary’s 1^st child, JESUS, formed from her DNA was fully human) unto us a SON is given (GOD gave us HIS eternal SON who is fully GOD, who made the all things and was a willing and joyful participant)… Isaiah 9:6a  This is a great mystery I cannot fully comprehend but lets talk about why it happened.

In Matthew 1:21 Joseph (who is to be HIS step-father) was instructed: you shall call HIS name JESUS for HE will save HIS people from their sins.

Sin is what separates us from GOD, Isaiah 59:2, therefore, sin is a big issue.  When JESUS CHRIST died  on the cross all the sins of the world (past, present and future) were laid on HIM and HE suffered the punishment for each and every one of them.  But only those who receive JESUS gain access to that forgiveness. Just  as my receiving a certain badge gave me access to base.

Jesus said clearly: if you do not believe that I am the one I claim to be, you will die in your sins. John 8:24  Jesus later says: I tell you the truth, who ever hears MY word and believes HIM who sent ME, has eternal life, and will not be condemned: he has crossed over from death to life. John5:24

Do you have access to the cleansing forgiveness of JESUS?

Hugs

Sharon

climbing wall

Climbing walls are not to be confused with the old idiom climbing the wall which means to be very agitated, anxious, bored, or excited.LOL

Climbing walls are currently quite popular for the thrill of climbing straight up but with the safety of halters and lead ropes for beginning climbers.  A climbing wall is an artificially constructed wall with holds for hands and feet, usually used for indoor rock climbing, Such a wall you will see on the right as you enter the Pueblo YMCA. The 1^st rock wall I ever saw, was a small scale, outside portable one Camp Elim had rented as an optional part of its exercise program for its campers where highly trained staff supervised campers for their fun and safety.

A foothold, like the holds on a climbing wall, is a secure position from which it is difficult to be dislodged.

We are told that when we sin, even just holding on to anger overnight, we give a foothold to the devil.  Ephesians 4:26,27

When that happens he can easily deceive us and get us to do his work.(note this was written to Christians.) 

You may protest that what I just said is too extreme but consider this: an angry retort can deeply wound another.  And why does the devil come?  John 10:10 says he only comes to kill, steal and destroy (do damage).  So you see he pushes us to say something unkind in order to harm another.  2 Timothy 2:25,26 tell us the devil catches us in snares (like lying) for the purpose of getting us to do his will.

Ever think that little white lie was giving the devil (who by the way is called the father of lies John 8:44) a foothold to deceive and control you as a tool to do his work?

But the good news is- GOD says that if we confess our sins, they are forgiven and we are cleansed from all unrighteousness. I John 1:9

That means the sin is gone and all the unrighteousness that has given the devil footholds have been cleansed.  Therefore, his power to deceive and control us is lessened considerably.  WOW!  That is exciting!  Just ponder that for a moment.

Hugs

Sharon

Sticking fingers in his ears

Have you ever seen a child stick his fingers in his ears because he didn’t want to hear what was being said? 

     

Listen to this word:  “…they would not listen to this message they turned stubbornly away and put their fingers in their ears to keep them from hearing.” Zechariah 7:11    hmmmm  Do you ever not want to hear what is being said?  Even when it comes from the Bible?

The Bible from beginning to end tells the story of mankind who didn’t want to hear anything that wasn’t their own idea.

“ There was a time when some of you were just like that, but now yours sins have been washed away and you have been set apart for GOD.  You have been made right with GOD because of what the LORD JESUS CHRIST and the HOLY SPIRIT of our GOD has done for you. I Corinthians 6:11 NLT 

The USA has bought into the Madison Avenue philosophy.   John Piper in “Future Grace” says this concept is best described by Sesame Street’s Cookie Monster: See cookie, want cookie, eat cookie.  This thinking that getting and having will bring fulfillment, especially when the economy is bad, bad, bad and money is scarce leads to depression.  This is particularly true during the holidays when gifts, friends and family seem everything, therefore it is a time when there are many, many suicides.

This morning, after crying out to GOD for the depressed, the homeless & druggies, I wrote my heart’s cry:

LORD, give us the words

to tell of YOUR goodness.

LORD, help us to know

what we should do.

They’re hurting and thirsty

from many bad choices

Needing love and forgiveness

that comes only from YOU

Show us the way, LORD.

Time’s getting shorter.

Open their hearts, LORD.

Help us lead them to YOU

What do people see in us?  Is there any reason they should listen to us, or will they just stick their fingers in their ears?

You may say , I am allowed to do anything.  But I reply, ‘Not everything is good for you and even though I am allowed to do anything, I must not be a slave to anything. I Corinthians 6:12 NLT  “JESUS replied, ‘I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.’ John 8:34

Hmmmm

Hugs

Sharon

What is it all about?

With my schedule, I need to get this out now or it may fall by the wayside:

 

MERRY CHRISTMAS!.  Christmas is all about GOD wanting a relationship with you and me.  My family treasures our relationships with family & friends & we love getting together.  Relationships are big with GOD too!  JESUS came to earth to reconcile man’s broken relationship with GOD. Ephesians 2:16   We are about to celebrate CHRISTMAS when JESUS was born.  Matthew 1:21 says “and she shall bring forth a son and you shall call HIS name JESUS for HE will save HIS people from their sins.”  Sin is what separates us from GOD.  Isaiah 59:2  That is why JESUS came- to pay for your sin & mine on the cross.

“For GOD so loved the world that HE gave HIS only begotten SON that whosoever believes in HIM will not perish but have eternal life”  John 3:16  “But to as many as receive HIM (JESUS) to them gave HE the power to become the sons of GOD, even to those who believe on HIS (JESUS) name.” John 1:12   See Christmas is really all about GOD wanting a relationship with you and me.

hugs

Sharon

backdrop

Once depicted as “Fairytale Queen”, Queen Elizabeth II, Queen of the Commonwealth realms, completed her 60 years of reign in February 2012.  She is called the diamond queen.  One of her crowns- The Miniature Crown worn by Queen Victoria for her Diamond Jubilee portrait in 1897 holds 1,187 diamonds.  The Diamond Coronation Necklace and Earrings,  was originally created for Queen Victoria and later worn by Queen Alexandra, Queen Mary, The Queen Mother and Queen Elizabeth II at their coronations.  Her diamonds are displayed with a dark background.

Like the Queens’s diamonds, often diamonds are displayed with a dark backdrop because the dark background allows the brilliance of the diamonds to shine even brighter in contrast.  I found the same truth ,as I read Philippians 2:5-8.

In that passage we are instructed to have the same attitude as  JESUS, who being in the form of GOD put aside recognition of HIS position of equality with GOD, HIS Sovereign rights as Creator of heaven & earth, HIS unlimited wealth  & privileges in order to take on the form of man & be born  in the fashion of man, (according to the eternal plan.) Then HE chose to humble HIMSELF even further in obedience unto death for HE  died on the cross carrying the sins man for the purpose of reconciling us to GOD.

The whole emphasis of this passage is not that JESUS was equal with GOD… although that is true.  But that truth is merely the back drop to emphasize the amazing humility of JESUS.  Just like the black velvet in the jeweler’s case that shows off the diamonds and the gold.  JESUS CHRIST’s  equality with GOD is the backdrop that show HIS humility. 

In this passage, Christ’s great object was to identify HIMSELF with humanity; not to appear to men as divine but as human and therefore able to understand   (Hebrews 4:14,15); help us in times of need (Hebrews 4:16); to die for our sins (Luke 24:7) & to eventually be the judge of all ( John 5:27)

HIS identifying with mankind was 1^st place in HIS life.   Perhaps, that is why JESUS CHRIST favorite name for HIMSELF was the Son of man. HE called HIMSELF the Son of man 82 times, yet only referring to HIMSELF 32 times as the Son (in reference to GOD)   22 of those are  in the book of John and 10 of the 22 are in John  chapter 5 as HE explains HIS relationship with GOD the FATHER and declares that HE does only what HE sees the FATHER doing ---setting an example for us to follow.

Today JESUS CHRIST is still putting us 1^st.  Hebrews 7:25 says HE can save us to the uttermost for HE ever lives to intercede for us.  (that is not—defending me as much as , “FATHER, Sharon could use more patience how should we handle this?”

So my point?  JESUS CHRIST humbled HIMSELF to identify with you and me in order to help us and reconcile us to GOD when we were yet sinners who could not save ourselves.  Are you, am I, willing to humble ourselves and reach out to those in need, to tell them of JESUS CHRIST in hopes of reconciling them to GOD?   For HE loves them, just like HE loves us.

Hugs

Sharon

popcorn balls

Popcorn balls are an old time favorite holiday treat that my grandchildren love to help me make. This year Kaylee did it all by herself and were they yummy!  If you wanted to make popcorn balls but didn't know how, which book would you take off the shelf?  Would you take a book of history? or a dictionary? Of course not, you would choose a cook book.

 

We need to use that same kind of reasoning to find the wisdom we need to help ourselves & others.  We need to go to the ONE who has that wisdom & to the book HE has given us.  

 

 Col. 2:3 In whom (JESUS) are hid all the treasures of wisdom & knowledge. :4 And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words (deceive you with well-crafted arguments):8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy & vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, & not after Christ. (Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies & high-sounding nonsense that come from human reasoning & from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.)

 

When seeking wisdom remember that one of JESUS CHRIST's names is the WORD. John 1:1-3, I John 1:1-3

 

Don't look in the world to find GOD's answers.  Go to HIS WORD Hebrews 4:14-16, James 1:5-6, Proverbs 3:5-7

 

hugs

Sharon

Are the shutters open or closed?

When I was a little girl curtains were up on every window.  Today often that is not the case.  Shutters cover many windows and offer an easy way to let in or close out light.  I have shutters on nearly every window in my house.

In many ways it seems like shutters have been closed to shut out GOD light in our world.  Therefore, we are in the dark concerning some things.  The Bible tells us that the whole worlds way of thinking lies in the arms ( or was taught us) by the devil.  I John 5:19  So as we take on their way of thinking, we take on his.

Being the world’s standards have so infiltrated the church, we often cannot tell any difference between the two.  One thing common among the world and Christians alike is slander (talking against) and maybe even mocking others, especially those in authority whose values are not Bible based.   But the fact is, we are condemning ourselves Romans 2:1 for we are just like them for we have joined the world in slander. Something GOD says is wrong.

Discernment is desperately needed more than ever.  To discern is the ability to recognize and distinguish between the difference in things.  Spiritual discernment is the ability to distinguish truth from error by grasping & comprehending something not clearly evident to the average mind.   

But don’t get me wrong… discernment is insight into the word of GOD not separate from it.  Today we find people adding and subtracting from the word of GOD at their own pleasure.  Something GOD sternly warns us against.  Proverbs 20:30, Revelation 22:17,18

It is impossible to attain spiritual discernment & wisdom without GOD.   The Holy SPIRIT must teach us for us to learn the things of GOD for they are too great for us to grasp on our own.  John 14:26, I Corinthians 2:10-11  HE gives discernment Matthew 13:11 or takes it away Job 12:20.  GOD alone can open the shutters to let the light of truth shine on the human mind enabling us to understand truth.  Especially if we have shut the shutters by turning at some point to do our own thing & consequently been blinded by the devil 2 Corinthians 4:4,  2Timothy 2:24-26

To those GOD has given discernment, HE also calls to teach HIS people the difference between the holy and the common and cause them to discern between the clean and unclean.  Ezekiel 44:23 For the difference has become vague and indistinct especially in America’s society.  Today, Christians laugh at smut not even recognizing that it is below GOD’s standard of purity.  This is because the world’s standard hits us from every angle—in what we see, what we hear- in fashions- and so much more.   Therefore, we have become to a degree, desensitized to wrong.

But GOD doesn’t leave us there.  HE promises that if we seek HIS righteousness Matthew 6:33 we shall find Matthew 7:7 and  all we have to do to know the next step HE wants us to take is to ask and be willing to comply.  James 1: 5-8  John 7:17

Do you, do I want discernment? Let’s ask!

Hugs,

Sharon

For the severely hearing impaired and the deaf, learning and using hand signs opens up a whole world of knowledge and communication before closed to them.  When you hold up your index finger and circle it counter clock it is the hand sign meaning ... turn around. 

 

From the 1st time man turned away from GOD to do his own thing, GOD has been saying turn back around.

 

Turn from your evil ways, turn back to ME, says the LORD of hosts, and I will turn to you.  But they would not listen and they would not hear. Zechariah 1:2,3

 

This morning a piece of a verse caught my attention:  Zechariah 1:6  But MY words... took a hold of them and they returned or turned around...

 

The Word of GOD can grab us/ take a hold of us... show us the truth and turn us around.  That picture is so clear.

 

Ephesians 6: 17...  the sword of the SPIRIT which is the Word of GOD... is another picture GOD gives us concerning HIS word: GOD's word is part of the weapons GOD gives us for our spiritual battle against evil.  GOD's word cuts through the lies of the devil so we can see the truth.

 

I read some more in that book I have been telling you about and things it said bothered me and I was in heaviness concerning it.  Then I read Zechariah 1:6 how the word of the LORD can grab a hold of us and turn us around.

 

I thought of the words in that book I am reading.  I thought of the things that were troubling my spirit as I read,  so I asked the LORD if those things were true?  And if they were, why wasn't everyone given that info?   Immediately verses came to mind...

 

Revelation 22:18,19 do not add to GOD's word or HE will add the plagues... to you... do not subtract from GOD's word or HE will take away your part in the tree (or book) of life...

 

Proverbs 30:6 do not add to HIS words, lest HE rebuke you and you be found a liar.

 

Job 13:7,8,10 Must you go on speaking for GOD when HE never once has said the things you are putting in HIS mouth?  Does GOD want your help if you are twisting the truth for HIM... you will be in serious trouble with HIM if you use lies to try to help HIM out.

 

I thought of the believers in Berea... they are said to be more noble than others who listened to Paul's preaching.  Why? because they searched the Scriptures (the word of GOD) to see if the things Paul said were so. Acts 17:10,11

 

Such a release and joy came over me as these verses came to me. I was washed anew with the water of the word of GOD.  The verses were not new to me, but as GOD applied them to my situation there was such freedom.  If what was said, was in the Word of GOD I was to accept it and use it, but if it was not... I was not to  have anything to do with it.

 

OK go ahead as say it.  No Duh!  You are right!  But GOD's gentleness and faithfulness to show me what I should have known without upbraiding me or telling me I should have know that... fills me full with overflowing joy... the words of GOD, no matter how well I know them still lead me and teach me and wash me... it is amazing!  I love HIS word!

 

hugs

Sharon

reaching out

There are a lot of abused animals and this little one looks like its reaching out for help. 

I send out these devotions as well as post them.  Some comment on them.   One gal in particular has been very vocal in asking why?  I am on the topics I have been on.  So as in light of I Peter 3:15 But set apart Christ as LORD in your hearts.  And be ready always to give an answer to every one that asks you a reason of the hope this is in you with gentleness and respect.  I want to explain where I am coming from and in that way give a reason for the hope that is in me.

Like that kitten, there are countless people who need help and before GOD our Savior, JESUS came and died in our place, all of us were doomed. For the soul that sins, he shall die. Ezekiel 18:20 for the wages of sin is death but the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD.  Romans 6:23 But GOD didn’t leave us helpless,

No,  JESUS came to earth as a baby and died carrying every sin, past, present and future to deliver us.  All that we need to do to obtain for ourselves the benefit of what JESUS did for us on the cross is to believe in HIM.  But just like an abused animal has wounds that need to be healed even after it has been rescued from danger, that is also true of people.  If we have received the love of the truth, we have been forgiven but many of us still have deep wounds. GOD wants to bring healing to each one of us.  The forgiveness of our sins is just the beginning of what HE has for us. There are awesome things awaiting us in heaven but even before that GOD is at work behind the scenes here and now in every believers heart.

·         Romans 8:28 And we know to the ones loving GOD (HE is at work behind the scenes), GOD by HIMSELF (singular) in reality is continually holding together, has in custody (all things that touch us),and is exercising a constraining influence on all things to the good, yes to benefit the ones being called according to  HIS purpose. 29 because those whom HE in reality in undefined time past foresaw (foreknew) them HE also in undefined time past determined beforehand  to conform to be like (exact image) of HIS SON, that HE should be the 1^st born of many brethren.

GOD is our Savior and Deliver, our Redeemer… Although HE has given us free will, HE has not tied HIS own hands or crippled HIMSELF from working and delivering HIS people

·         Isaiah 50:2 …Is MY hand shortened at all, that It cannot redeem? Or have I no power to deliver? ….

Although HE has called us to co- labor with HIM HE is not dependant on our response.

·         Isaiah 59:15  Truth is nowhere to be found, and whoever shuns evil becomes a prey.  The LORD looked and was displeased that there was no justice.  HE saw there was no one, HE was appalled that there was no one to intervene; so HIS own arm worked salvation…

·         Isaiah 63:5  And I looked and there was no one to help, and I was appalled that no one gave support; so MY own arm worked salvation…

GOD does use people as instruments of HIS work.  He calls both HIS people and HIS enemies to do HIS bidding.

·         Philippians 2:13 For it is GOD who places within you the desire to do what HE wants done and also enables you to do it.

·         Revelation 17:12,17 The 10 horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but who for one hour will receive authority as kings along with the beast…For GOD has put it into the hearts of the 10 kings to accomplish HIS purpose by agreeing to give the beast their power to rule, until GOD’ words are fulfilled.

Our GOD is the MOST HIGH, HE is LORD of lords and KING of kings, HE is the LORD GOD ALMIGHTY, the LORD of hosts (armies).  HE is Sovereign, let us not forget it.  Just because HE is love does not lesson HIS Majesty or HIS power.

I love the way Sinclair Lewis spoke in the Chronicles of Narnia as he describes Aslan (a picture of JESUS), the son of the Great Emperor-Beyond-the Sea ..”if there’s anyone who can appear before Aslan without their knees knocking they’re either braver than most or else just silly…. “Then HE isn’t safe?” Asked Sally…“Safe?... who said anything about safe?  Course HE is not safe.  But HE is good.

Hugs

Sharon