College
Construction 101
Foundation
Structure
Ribbon cutting
Every strong, good building starts with a good strong foundation. You can use the finest material that money can buy for the structure but if the foundation is weak eventually the building will fall. From my construction background I know this to be true. Way back in the day in Oregon a friend and I built a cabin and I remember our focus was on its foundation; big oak stumps set in concrete. It was just a two room cabin with a double sleeping loft but it could have been a high rise based on the foundation we set. Later on I was so impressed by the emphasis on foundation in Gods word.
. Luk 6:48 -49 “He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock. “But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it fell. And the ruin of that house was great.”
1Cr 3:10- According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it.
1Cr 3:11- For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.
Eph 2:20 – having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone.
When concrete is poured for a foundation, forms are constructed to hold the concrete in place till it sets, concrete cannot be poured without forms in place. And God also formed us. Psa 139:13- For You formed my inward parts; You covered me in my mother’s womb.
The new structure is started in our salvation, Christ who died for our sins is the cornerstone of everything we believe in and have faith in. He died on the cross so we could live, thus the new structure( new life)
Structure-growth, sanctification
Again from construction experience, after working on many diff. projects I met a lot of people of many trades, carpenters , masons, steel workers electricians etc., all working toward a common goal to complete the building. Some paid close attention to detail, some tried to cut corners. There is only one way to work on a project When the idea is first conceived blue prints are drawn up that show exactly how the building should come together, every intricate detail . So too in our Christian life.
All buildings should be equipped to withstand storms, so too ours
. 1Pe 5:7 -11 casting all your care upon Him for He cares for you.
– Be sober be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion seeking whom he may devour. Resist him steadfast in the faith knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. But may the God of all grace who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus after you have suffered a while perfect establish strengthen and settle you. To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
–
So we have the foundation first, then the steel is erected On our building the steel is 2Pe 1:5-7 – But also for this very reason giving all diligence add to your faith virtue to virtue knowledge to knowledge self-control to self-control perseverance to perseverance godliness to godliness brotherly kindness and to brotherly kindness love.
The steel is up, now the floors and walls.
There are also many times on a construction site, where something doesn’t really fit or match up the way it is supposed to, the workers have to figure out how to adjust, which is different than cutting corners.
Trials and suffering are some of the snags we hit in our building process.
What do we do ? Refer to the blue print (God’s word).
Jam 1:2 – My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,
Jam 5:13 – Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing psalms.
In the before mentioned workers who cut corners to speed up the process and most times led to bigger problems(shouldn’t listen to them)
2Cr 11:13 – For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ.
1Jo 4:1- Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.
Mar 13:22 – “For false christs and false prophets will rise and show signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.
Job 36:4 – For truly my words are not false; One who is perfect in knowledge is with you.
Luk 21:36 – “Watch therefore and pray always that you may be counted worthy to escape all these things that will come to pass and to stand before the Son of Man.”
I repeat go to the blue print, Gods word, seek Godly council, have a prayer partner, someone you know who is a prayer warrior. Pray hard, pray often for the building process (sanctification).
Chip Away
Praise to You my God and Creator
For the mercy You have shown me
My sins forgiven, in my heart I am new
Yet so much work to be done, I know You see
Praise to You merciful redeemer
As You work on this worthless piece of clay
Becoming everything You need me to be
Praise to You as You gently chip away.
niz
Molded
My GOD, one so forgiving
He always remains so true
Jesus the life so perfect
The example of what I should do
Yet when I fall short of the glory of GOD
He so lovingly understands
With His Spirit’s help I press onward
Continually being shaped by the Potter’s Hand.
niz
Hbr 3:4 For every house is built by someone but He who built all things is God.
As the building is completed protection is put over everything until the final inspection, the comparison is amazing.
Eph 6:11 Put on the whole armor of God that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
Topping Off—completion
Upon the completion of the building there is a tradition called the topping off party. Everyone is happy for the completion. The building came out to the satisfaction of the builder. Usually there are bonuses and more work from the builder who funds the project.
Our building however comes out perfect according to the perfect plan of the Master builder and there is much rejoicing in the completion. Our bonus is treasure and no more work. (It is finished).
Mat 6:20 – But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:
Rev 22:12 – “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.
Mat 5:12 – “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
Mat 10:42 – “And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.”
Mar 9:41 – “For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward.
Rev 2:7 – “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.”‘
Luk 23:43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Application
From before we were born God’s plan for our lives was perfect. That is the only way God does things, perfectly.We should thank Him for saving us, for the promise of eternal life with Him.When we look around and see all the things men have accomplished in the skyscrapers that reach toward the sky’s, we should compare that to what the master builder has done with our lives. Realizing that they, despite the foundations and the steel and finest material used, will all fade away. You however were created and molded and shaped to last forever. Glory to God.
To look at the sky line and be impressed, yet realize since the day they were built, the decay process started. Now look within at your creation the one God started. It is just the beginning of eternity. At this stage in our lives we have a tremendous responsibility. We are to let the light shine, let the joy be evident to those around us, that is our ministry. That a life in Christ is one that lasts forever.
Miracle In Me
I pray Your Word echos throughout my life
It shows in everything I say and do
And when I speak to others
The one they hear will be You
Lord I pray my life glorifies Your Name
That everyone I meet will see
The Gospel clearly represented
By the miracle You have done in me.
niz
Humble Creation
Praise to the Wonderful Maker
Creator of all things
The almighty God to whom
All creation sings
In Your time I am but an infant
Like a seed newly sown
Yet even before my beginning
By You I was known
Praise You for my salvation
I am made unlike other worldly things
Made to last eternally with You
Glory to God, this humble creation sings.
niz
Rip Cord
When I was much younger and I had just met Josie, I was wearing a safari jacket which she thought was cool. On the inside of the lapel I had drawn a little circle with a line attached, it was my rip cord. If I was in a situation that I considered uncomfortable I had my rip cord to pull, my chute would open and I would be okay Just superstition that really was of no help at all. We might all have had a rip cord of some kind or another, but those who know the Lord have faith to rely on.
Mat 17:20 He replied, “Because you have so little faith. I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”
Peer Pressure
Something we have all been exposed to in one way or another. It can be overbearing in a lot of situations, at school especially, sometimes amongst your social friends, at work, it doesn’t matter where, it is ever present. For Christians it is sometimes a challenge for those who are not, to see if they can make us stumble. The situation might even be a little challenging to us, yet rely on Him for every situation
Sometimes we might think it is just about me and them. If that is our thinking we have taken our minds off Him.
Mat 14:28 And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.
Mat 14:29 And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
Mat 14:30 But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
Mat 14:31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth [his] hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?
Luk 8:22 Now it happened, on a certain day, that He got into a boat with His disciples. And He said to them, “Let us cross over to the other side of the lake.” And they launched out
Luk 8:23 But as they sailed He fell asleep. And a windstorm came down on the lake, and they were filling with water, and were in jeopardy.
Luk 8:24 And they came to Him and awoke Him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” Then He arose and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water. And they ceased, and there was a calm.
Luk 8:25 But He said to them, “Where is your faith?” And they were afraid, and marveled, saying to one another, “Who can this be? For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!”
Peer pressure comes in many forms but usually it is an invitation to sin, it is others trying to get you to do something, or go some where that you are not comfortable with. Stand strong in your faith in He who protects.
1Pe 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
1Pe 5:9 Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.
1Pe 5:10 But may the God of all grace, who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, establish, strengthen, and settle you.
1Pe 5:11 To Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen.
World Pressure
Josie and I have a saying we use when we talk about some things going on in our family or friends lives. We say we are surrounded by the world. It is just a reminder of where we are and who we or others that we love are dealing with.
1Pe 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
1Jo 2:15 Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
1Jo 2:16 For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world.
We spoke about this last week of the darkness that is in this world. The many pitfalls we encounter, we should always be praying for each others strength and protection against the lures of this world.
1Jo 4:1 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world.
Jo 1:7 For many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.
1Jo 4:3 and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist, which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world.
Mat 13:22 “Now he who received seed among the thorns is he who hears the word, and the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and he becomes unfruitful.
Mat 16:26 “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?
Jhn 15:18 “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you.
Jhn 15:19 “If you were of the world, the world would love its own. Yet because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.
Gal 4:3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world.
Even at times those you think you can rely on might let you down. Do not despair but rely on God and His word.
2Ti 4:10 for Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world, and has departed for Thessalonica—Crescens for Galatia, Titus for Dalmatia.
2Ti 4:1 Only Luke is with me. Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is useful to me for ministry.[ 2Ti 4:12 And Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus.
2Ti 4:13 Bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas when you come—and the books, especially the parchments.
So now that we know some of our peers look for us to stumble, and the world hates us, how do we feel?
Jhn 16:33 “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
1Jo 4:4 You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.
1Jo 4:9 In this the love of God was manifested toward us, that God has sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.
Mat 25:34 “Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
No Pressure
All this pressure, your peers, some friends, some familyand if that isn’t enough the world. Now imagine 10 people including you jumping out of a plane. You and 4 others have chutes, the other five don’t .The panic is minimal to when the Lord comes and some have salvation and some don’t. The faith we have in Christ Jesus and what He has done for us, carries us through all the tribulations and pressure that this world exposes us to; the promise of salvation and eternity with Him.
Jam 2:5 Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him?
1Pe 1:5 who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
1Pe 1:9 receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls.
1Pe 1:21 who through Him believe in God, who raised Him from the dead and gave Him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.
Hbr 6:12 that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
Hbr 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Rom 4:20 He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God,
Rom 5:1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
Rom 5:2 through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
Rom 10:17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
Mar 11:22 So Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God.
I urge you to encourage each other constantly, through example, prayer for one another and love for one another.
Rom 3:22 even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference;
Rom 1:12 that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.
Application
So here we are in a world full of sin, ridicule of believers, the pressure we spoke of from the many different sources.True there is strength in numbers and it is very secure when we are in a church full of Christians, but what about when we are on our own amongst non believers. Those that do not know they are falling. Now the rip cord comes in to the picture, it is your faith. You give that a tug and in front of others your chute opens, your joy is evident. Your testimony shows the trust and victory you have in your salvation.Those without that testmony, that do not have Christ, the ones that are free falling will want to reach out and grab onto that security.Be there for them.The term “keep the faith” was a big thing in the 60’s they couldn’t have been further from the truth in the way they were using it, but as far away as they were, they were closer to the real truth.Stand on your faith, represent your faith, share your faith, keep the faith.
Faith Restored
In that moment of doubt
I ask forgiveness for my humanity
My heart knows so well
Some times my mind does not see
I realize my need
Is not in worldly things
Everything for good provided
By the King of Kings
No longer distracted
Faith wonderfully restored
On the straight and narrow
Hand in hand with the Lord
Now when in days ahead in this world
The sea of life may roll and toss
My faith will be my anchor
With my eyes fixed on the cross.
niz
Do That Thing You Do
I remember as a kid sometimes complaining ” I have nothing to do”, or “all that, I’ll never get it done”. We, not all but most, like to do,what we like to do. We just get comfortable and we might get asked to throw out the trash or some other chore. We might be faced with an obligation to attend something and really not want to go. We just like to do what we like to do, it’s our nature, self gratification. So how do we start to do the thing we do constructivly?
Take our focus off ourselves and look to others.
Do nothing
Do wrong
Do what we should
Gen 4:7 “If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin lies at the door. And its desire is for you, but you should rule over it.”
Do Nothing
Remember when we spoke about the chart in the day ? How much time was not spent in prayer or reading and worship, or service. The bible speaks of the dangers in doing nothing. We have resposabilities, things we have to do to exist in this world, but it is the idle time we must be wary of.
Pro 14:23 In all labor there is profit, But idle chatter leads only to poverty.
Pro 19:15 Laziness casts one into a deep sleep, And an idle person will suffer hunger.
1Ti 1:6 from which some, having strayed, have turned aside to idle talk,
1Ti 5:13 And besides they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not.
Ecc 10:18 Because of laziness the building decays, And through idleness of hands the house leaks.
Jer 7:24 “Yet they did not obey or incline their ear, but followed the counsels and the dictates of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward.
Jer 17:23 “But they did not obey nor incline their ear, but made their neck stiff, that they might not hear nor receive instruction.
1Cr 2:9 But as it is written: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.”
What are some things that turn into wrong, by doing nothing?
Seeing someone in church or another place sitting or standing alone and not seeing how they are doing.
Knowing of a need and not seeing if you could fill it.
Never volunteering for service, for instance having a God given skill and not using it
Do Wrong
2Ki 17:41 So these nations feared the LORD, yet served their carved images; also their children and their children’s children have continued doing as their fathers did, even to this day.
What is this passage saying to you besides serving carved images?
The danger of doing something that by watching us we might lead others astray. Our witness must always be of the Lord
Pro 2:14 Who rejoice in doing evil, And delight in the perversity of the wicked;
Col 3:25 But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality.
To willfully do wrong is sin, but it is the subtle ways I am speaking of.
2Ti 2:23 But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife.
Tts 3:9 But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless.
Col 3:25 But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality.
Not avoiding conversation that can cause trouble and confusion is wrong and we can sometimes be drawn into things like this unawares.
My point is doing wrong is the opposite of doing the right thing. I am not putting the label of sin on these non acts. I think the right word is procrastination. Can anyone tell me what I mean by that?
Seeing a situation where we might be able to help on the spot, then talking ourselves out of it. Convincing ourselves we don’t have the time or the capability to help, making excuses.Any examples?
Maybe not having the time to pick someone up for church because you might be late.Passing the supermarket and not calling that person who just got home from the hospital, or is home sick.Knowing someone is doing bad in school in a subject you are good at, etc.
If we ask to do God’s will and we don’t act on the prompings of the Holy Spirit we are amiss. We have to be still and listen to what God asks of us.
Mat 7:26 “But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a foolish man who built his house on the sand:
Mat 7:27 “and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.”
It all boils down to matters of the heart, which I won’t go into because that is next meetings lesson. It is where our actions come from that make a difference and an impact.
Eph 6:6 not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart,
Do What We Should
First and above all, we should know and understand that without Him we can do nothing.
Jhn 15:5 “I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing.
Yet, how can we do a good thing wrong?
When it comes from some place other than our heart.
Any examples ?
One main one is , you do something nice for someone without them asking. Thet are blessed, you are blessed, God is pleased.
It should stop there, yet our nature takes over and we want to be recognized for what we did. Wasn’t pleasing God enough? It should be….
Matthew 6:1- 2
Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. ]
Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward.
How do we do the thing we do and keep it right?
By following the word of God
Col 3:24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.
Mat 7:24 -25 “Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock:
“and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.
Luk 11:28
But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”
Rom 2:13
(for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified;
John 13:17
If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.
James 1:23, 24
For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was.
This illustration is a man seeing his old self after hearing the word agrees with what he hears and continues in his old habits. I also think it is talking the talk and not walking the walk. All the while thinking he is o.k.(deceiving himself). The tradgedy is he sometimes deceives others who are lost. It turns into the blind leading the blind.
So it shows us in God’s word that we must pay attention to what we read and hear, but use it to God’s glory. To spread the Gospel, to live it.
It is like when they put a hole in the fence of a construction site and passers by watch the workers at their trade. If they were to watch perhaps a mason who knew his trade. They would see it being done with accuracy, precision, with care and even love for his craft. The same with artists, sculpterers, musical composers, carpenters, they see it and hear it and then do it.
We should be the same way with the word of God Spread it, share it with precision(know it) with care and love. For our trade is to be
disciples, We must see it, hear it and then do it to the Glory of God.
What You Want Of Me
My Lord I come before You
A God fearing, God loving man
Asking in full humility
Some insight to Your plan
I want to do so much for You
Yet not my will but thine
So that when I share Your Holy Word
Others hear Your Spirits Voice not mine
I know You stand beside me
While I share the message of Calvary
Yet I ask in full humility Lord
What You want of me.
niz
Give Peace A Chance
When I was younger, so much younger than today, sorry, I couldn’t resist that. There was big division in our country. The Viet Nam war was going on. The war mongers were for it and the “hippies” and other pacifists were against it. It did not matter if you were for it or against it, young men were getting killed every day in a foreign land. The reason for the war was irrelevent, it just made better sense to want peace.
Who wouldn’t want peace. What does it mean? freedom from any strife or dissension.
freedom of the mind from annoyance, distraction, anxiety, an obsession, etc.; tranquillity; serenity.
a state of tranquillity or serenity:
The younger generation in the 60’s had a really beautiful idea. Love. Love love. It was a great feeling to flash the peace sign, get one in return along with a big smile.It was a bond that spread world wide. Love, love, love great idea, wrong ideals. There was no direction, at times it was like old testament.Godless partying not for all but most. Nothing constructive, just blank, mindless following of an ideal.Where was the Bible when the world needed one?
War:
The war, the real war, that was going on was the battle against God.
Eph 6:12
For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.
Eph 2:2
in which you once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit who now works in the sons of disobedience,Eph 2:3 among whom also we all once conducted ourselves in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, just as the others.
2Cr 10:4
For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,2Cr 10:5casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,
Know your enemy
: Mat 13:39 “The enemy who sowed them is the devil, the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are the angels.
Act 13:10
and said, “O full of all deceit and all fraud, you son of the devil, you enemy of all righteousness, will you not cease perverting the straight ways of the Lord?
Luk 8:12
“Those by the wayside are the ones who hear; then the devil comes and takes away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.
1Ti 3:7
Moreover he must have a good testimony among those who are outside, lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.
2Ti 2:26
and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.
1Pe 5:8
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
The longer you wait to face the enemy, the power shifts. Your uncertainty enhances the enemys surety. Ignoring him gives him the opportunity to surprise. Be prepared!
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Defense
Be Prepared
Jhn 8:32
“And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
The best defense we have is God’s word. Read it, study it, meditate upon it. We need to share it with others who are prisoners to sin. Let them know the opportunity to be free.
2Tim2:21
Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified and useful for the Master, prepared for every good work.
2Ti 3:16
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,
2Ti 3:17
that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2Ti 4:2
Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.
Those that are prisoners of war, do not even know they are in a war, or that they are prisoners.
1Pe 3:15
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
2Cr 5:5
Now He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, who also has given us the Spirit as a guarantee.
Eph 2:10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.
Psa 7:10 My defense is of God, Who saves the upright in heart.
Psa 59:17 To You, O my Strength, I will sing praises; For God is my defense, My God of mercy.
Psa 62:6 He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be moved.
Psa 94:22 But the LORD has been my defense, And my God the rock of my refuge.
Know who we are fighting. Know what we have to use in this fight. GODS WORD
Peace
After the war comes peace
By the grace of God we are saved and with that comes peace. It is a peace they (the lost) will see and want. The peace that calmed the seas, the peace that can come from only Him.
Job 22:21 “Now acquaint yourself with Him, and be at peace; Thereby good will come to you.
Psa 4:8 I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; For You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
Psa 29:11 The LORD will give strength to His people; The LORD will bless His people with peace.
Psa 55:18 He has redeemed my soul in peace from the battle that was against me, For there were many against me.
Psa 119:165 Great peace have those who love Your law, And nothing causes them to stumble.
Mar 9:50 “Salt is good, but if the salt loses its flavor, how will you season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace with one another.”
Luk 1:79 To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace.”
Jhn 14:27 “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
Rom 8:6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
Rom 10:15 And how shall they preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, Who bring glad tidings of good things!”
Rom 14:19 Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may edify another.
Rom 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Rom 15:33 Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen.
Eph 2:17 And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near.
Eph 4:3 endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.
Eph 6:15 and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
Col 3:15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.
1Pe 3:11 Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it.
It says in a google search of the spiritual revival in the 60s that it came to a halt. There was all that talk of peace and love and brotherhood. If you look into that whole movement it was all about man and had nothing to do with God. The enemy used all that energy and twisted it and bent it in his direction. That same battle for control is in effect today. A different era but the same mind control games.Love, love, love, it says in God’s word He is love. It is His love we must love with, it is the peace that comes from Him we seek. It is not peace signs or olive branches, but the Gospel , the foundation, the source of peace that we must offer. I sang it then and I sing it now but with a new heart. All we are saying is give peace a chance.
Phl 4:7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
Peace
Oh my Lord I give thanks
For all You have given me
For Your Love and Grace
That flows so abundently
In the hope that comes with Your promise
Comes joy that will never cease
And what came with my salvation
That certain inexpressable Peace.
niz
Here Comes The Son
Sunrise, sunset, both equally beautiful, it just seems one has more significance to it. To me the sunrise is the better of the two. A new day, a new beginning, new light. With the Lord’s help in this lesson I want to use this illustration in a comparison to the Son Rise.The anticipation of the sun coming up over the horizon to me is exiting. Then compare it to the Son of God appearing on the horizon. The words exciting, magnificent, glorious, breathtaking can describe a sunrise but there are no words to describe the Son rising over the horizon.
He Came
He Accomplished and went
He Is coming again
He Came
Mat 1:21
And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
Luk 2:10,11
And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Jhn 1:14
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth.
Mat 3:17
And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.”
Why did He come?
Jhn 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Mat 18:11 “For the Son of Man has come to save that which was lost.
This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.”
He was an example for us on how we should live
Jhn 13:12-16
So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done to you?
“You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am
. If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him.”
He displayed perfect obedience
Mat 26:39
He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.”
Mat 26:42
Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.”
He came to show the way
Jhn 14:6
Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.
Many scriptures in the old testament refer to the way.
Psa 1:6
For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, But the way of the ungodly shall perish.
Psa 5:8
Lead me, O LORD, in Your righteousness because of my enemies; Make Your way straight before my face.
Psa 18:30
As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the LORD is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him.
Psa 25:8
Good and upright is the LORD; Therefore He teaches sinners in the way.
Psa 37:34
Wait on the LORD, And keep His way, And He shall exalt you to inherit the land; When the wicked are cut off, you shall see it.
Psa 67:2
That Your way may be known on earth, Your salvation among all nations.
Leading the perfect life Jesus taught by example but gave so many lessons as He traveled. I will let you read the sermon on the mount in Matthew on your own. I am sure you have read it before, I urge you to read it again. It is such a well of information as to how we should follow His lead for our lives.
He showed love and compassion as a man. He grew weary, hungry and thirsty just like us, Yet looked to fill the needs of others. The blind, the poor, the sick and the lame. He wanted those around Him to be like Him.
The main way was and is, the way of the cross for he came to sacrifice His life for us.
In what way did Jesus show us how to follow the will of God?
PERFECT OBEDIENCE
He accomplished and went up
Mat 9:35
Then Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.
Everything He did was an example for us.
Everything He did and said was of God. He made men disciples and we too are disciples, commissioned to spread the Gospel, the message of Jesus.
Mat 9:37,38
Then He said to His disciples, “The harvest truly is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.”
Mat 4:19
Then He said to them, “Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.”
He accomplished His mission, salvation for us, redemption through His blood.
He was crucified, He died, and was buried
Lk 23:33
And when they had come to the place called Calvary, there they crucified Him, and the criminals, one on the right hand and the other on the left.
Lk 23:43
And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.”
Lk 23:46
And when Jesus had cried out with a loud voice, He said, “Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit.'” Having said this, He breathed His last.
Mark 15:46
Then he bought fine linen, took Him down, and wrapped Him in the linen. And he laid Him in a tomb which had been hewn out of the rock, and rolled a stone against the door of the tomb.
He arose
Mark 16:5 And entering the tomb, they saw a young man clothed in a long white robe sitting on the right side; and they were alarmed.
Mark 16:6 But he said to them, “Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him.”
He Went Up
Mark 16:15-20
And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who does not believe will be condemned. And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues;
they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.”
So then, after the Lord had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs. Amen.
He Is Coming Again
Think back to the times when someone close to you, someone you cared for very much was coming to your house, everything would be tidied up. You would stock up on their favorite foods, conjur up all past favorite memories to share. You would spend the time preparing for their arrival.
Is our house in order for the most anticipated coming of all?
Mat 24:37-39
“But as the days of Noah were, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and did not know until the flood came and took them all away, so also will the coming of the Son of Man be.”
What was Jesus speaking about in refering to days of Noah?
They were preoccupied with daily life, not concerned as to what they were told (the coming flood). Those of us who are saved should be occupied with being used by God to remind others of their need for salvation.
Mat. 24:44 – 46
Mat 24:44 So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns.
1Cor 15:22,23
For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive. But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ’s at His coming.
1Pe 4:13
but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy.
1Th 4:16
For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord.
Rev 1:7
Behold, He is coming with clouds, and every eye will see Him, even they who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. Even so, Amen.
There are those who do not even talk about the Lord coming, many pretend it will not happen. I have said this more than once to non believers “I believe the Gospel is true and the bible is the living Word of God. That there is a heaven and a hell. Are you sure that I am wrong, are you willing to take that chance?”
Like every other lesson we have shared, whatever we have learned together it is the same message. Learn the word of God, live the word of God, spread the word of God. Let the matters of your heart be what is the matter with this world. It is lost and dying. Let them understand when we say He is coming, that it is said with great rejoicing.
Act 20:24
“But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
1Cor. 9:24
Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may obtain it.
Ours is not a race on an oval track where we are running in circles. It is like a cross country race over hills, through obstacles, for a long distance and all the preperation, training and dedication come to fruition through the Son.
When we sing songs of worship and praise together in church, sing out, use it as practice toward perfection for that glorious day when we will all sing out to the risen Savior there before our eyes in glory.
Mar 13:26 “Then they will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.”
One day when you might be with a group of people, some of who might not know the Lord and having the chance to witness a sunrise and someone says “look here comes the sun” share your thoughts and the reason for that joyful smile on your face. Yes a beautiful sunrise indeed but I know of and am waiting for a far more glorious one.”
Approaching Dawn
As you see the dawn approaching
Appearing over the mountain peak
Be reminded of He who comes in glory
The Savior we must all seek
As the light shines upon you
Enjoy the peace the dawn brings
Be reminded of the risen Savior
Lord of lords, King of kings
He and He alone the giver
Of the freedom we all craved
By His sacrifice forgiven
Through grace and faith we are saved
As you see the dawn approaching
A new day about to start
Be reminded of He who comes in glory
Feel the joy that fills your heart.
niz
JOY
The Difference
The Need
The source
Know the difference:
JOY-the worlds definition
1 a : the emotion evoked by well-being, success, or good fortune or by the prospect of possessing what one desires : delight b : the expression or exhibition of such emotion : gaiety
2 : a state of happiness or felicity : bliss
3 : a source or cause of delight
To me the difference is a light in the living room compared to a sunrise
GLAD
1 archaic : having a cheerful or happy disposition by nature
2 a : experiencing pleasure, joy, or delight : made happy b : made pleased, satisfied, or grateful —often used with of <was glad of their help> c : very willing <glad to do it>
3 a : marked by, expressive of, or caused by happiness and joy <a glad shout> b : causing happiness and joy : pleasant <glad tidings>
4 : full of brightness and cheerfulness <a glad spring morning>
Happy
1 : favored by luck or fortune : fortunate <a happy coincidence>
2 : notably fitting, effective, or well adapted : felicitous <a happy choice>
3 a : enjoying or characterized by well-being and contentment <is the happiest person I know> <a happy childhood> b : expressing, reflecting, or suggestive of happiness <a happy ending> c : glad, pleased <I’m happy to meet you> d : having or marked by an atmosphere of good fellowship : friendly <a happy office>
4 a : characterized by a dazed irresponsible state <a punch-happy boxer> b : impulsively or obsessively quick to use or do something <trigger-happy> c : enthusiastic about something to the point of obsession : obsessed <education-conscious and statistic-happy —
It is ok to be happy or glad we just have to be careful of what makes us happy or glad
I am happy I have great kids, 3John 1:4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.
Isa 22:11 You also made a reservoir between the two walls For the water of the old pool. But you did not look to its Maker, Nor did you have respect for Him who fashioned it long ago.
Acknowledge where all things come from
Isa 22:13 But instead, joy and gladness, Slaying oxen and killing sheep, Eating meat and drinking wine: “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die!”
Acknowledge the fact that this is temporary
The difference: Happiness comes and goes, the joy of the Lord lasts forever.
I am happy I have great kids, 3John 1:4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.
Psa 128:2 When you eat the labor of your hands, You [shall be] happy, and [it shall be] well with you.
Not be fooled by happiness
Job 8:12 While it [is] yet green [and] not cut down, It withers before any [other] plant.
Job 8:13 So [are] the paths of all who forget God; And the hope of the hypocrite shall perish,
Job 8:14 Whose confidence shall be cut off, And whose trust [is] a spider’s web.
Job 8:15 He leans on his house, but it does not stand. He holds it fast, but it does not endure.
Job 8:16 He grows green in the sun, And his branches spread out in his garden.
Job 8:17 [And] look for a place in the stones.
We tend to get caught up in things of this world, our lives blossom with material things, we get caught up in our education and lean less on wisdom that comes from the Word. We tend to grow confident in our financial security. While finances and education and confidence are all good, if we think it is all because of us it is a big mistake. It is all momentary happiness not even close to joy.Our roots must be firmly set in rich soil, Gods word, our house must be set upon the rock, Jesus Christ.
Happiness turns to joy when we acknowledge God is responsible for all we have.
The difference: Happiness comes and goes, the joy of the Lord lasts forever.
The Need ———we must seek to bring the gospel to those who do not know Him, so that He can fill their need.
Salvation is our Joy, knowing Christ is Our joy. How joyful it is for us to see someone come to know Christ, to see that joy spring forth.
Isa 35:2 It shall blossom abundantly and rejoice, Even with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, The excellence of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the LORD, the excellency of our God.
We need to show the joy that comes from knowing Christ. The fruit of the Spirit is our representation of Christ. Do not supress it situationally, let the joy of knowing Christ shine out from you so that others will sense their need for that joy.
Name some people who you know in your lives that show that joy. Imagine a room full of those people, or a church or a stadium.What a beautiful picture of glory to God.
THE SOURCE
Gal 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
1Th 2:20 For you are our glory and joy.
1Pe 1:8 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy,
Hab 3:18 Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.
Mat 25:21 His lord said to him, ‘Well [done], good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’
Jhn 15:11 “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and [that] your joy may be full.
Act 2:28 You have made known to me the ways of life; You will make me full of joy in Your presence.’
Calvin
And he calls it joy unspeakable, or unutterable, because the peace of God exceeds all comprehension.
Joy Of The Spirit
Salvation mine He has called me
Saved from eternity in hell
To be with Him forever
On this promise I will dwell
I will love Him with all my heart
Sing songs of glory and praise
Keep my eyes fixed on the cross
Follow Him all of my days
For He showers me with abundant grace
To I one so unworthy He longs to give
Oh to know this wonderful joy
That only His Spirit can give.
niz
JOY WITHIN
I’ve got this joy within my heart
I sense the urge to share
It comes from the price Jesus paid
For all my sins He had to bear
This joy comes with salvation
The cross gave me the victory
I’ve got this joy within my heart
I pray every one can see
No need for anyone to live a life
With the light in their hearts always dim
They too can have this joy in their hearts
It comes from knowing Him.
niz
Application :
Express your joy, let it overflow. Gods Spirit is within you, the fruit of the Spirit is joy. Pray to our Lord for that joyful presence in your life, as part of your witness. Let others see the joy that comes from knowing Him.
Psa 35:9 And my soul shall be joyful in the LORD; It shall rejoice in His salvation.
Rom 15:13 Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Ministry
Ministry– 4 : a person or thing through which something is accomplished :
Minister– 2 : to give aid or service
Minister
why to
when to
how to
Why
We are instructed in Gods word to minister. Are you ever drawn to certain people you don’t know but feel they can use a word of encouragement. I am pretty sure you will come across them in your school or work place. I said this before, ask God to see the world through His eyes, to be able to see the needs, hurts and sadness and bring the the word of God to them.
1Ti 1:12
And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry,
1Ti 1:13 although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man; but I obtained mercy because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.
1Ti 1:14
And the grace of our Lord was exceedingly abundant, with faith and love which are in Christ Jesus.
The strength of our testimony is powerful in how God called us and uses us.
Act 20:24
But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.
1Ti 1:12
And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting [me] into the ministry,
Eph 4:11
And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers,
Eph 4:12
for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the
edifying of the body of Christ,
Hbr 6:10
For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love which you have shown toward His name, in that you have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
Act 6:4
but we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
2Ti 4:5
But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry
When—When prompted by the Holy Spirit, seeing someone hurting, sad, lonely . When others are caught up in this world and under the ted syndrome, dejec ted, rejec ted, neglec ted or subjec ted to ridicule. There are countless opportunities that are right in front of us.Pray for senseativity to others, even those we might see as strong individuals.
1Pe 4:10
As each one has received a gift, minister it to one another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
1Ti 4:6
If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed.
[Has anyone been ministered to or had the opportunity to minister?
How-
with concern, with care, with an open heart, with gentleness and of course with scripture.
1Pe 3:15
But sanctify the Lord God [fn] in your hearts, and
always be readyto give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear;
Hbr 4:16
Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.
Jhn 14:16
“And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever—
Col 4:5
Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.
Col 4:6
Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.
We should also rely on support from our brothers and sisters
Hbr 10:24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works,
Hbr 10:25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.
Rom 1:12
that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.
Application; Study God’s word, meditate on it. Allow God’s spirit to minister His ways to your heart. Pray for opportunities to minister God’s word and love to those around you, loved ones, friends, those that God puts in our path. Be thankful for being part of the ministry.Remember those old movies that showed the doctor carrying that little bag. He would show up the people would say oh doctor I am so glad you are hear. We should be carrying God’s word in our heart, it should be so evident to others that when they see us they say I am so glad you are here. Not because it is us but we are a reminder to them of Who we represent and serve.Instead of that little black bag, we can open up God’s word and share with them the best medicine for their spiritual need. We can share refreshing scripture and pray, and just the fact that we care and love them and each other is a bit of a cure all in a lot of situations.
Minister
If you fall I will help you up
Our Father tells me to do so
When in trouble and a little lost
Hand and hand the right way we will go
I will stay in the word, you do the same
With His Spirit, we are to help each other along
Minister to each other from God’s word
In glory to Him, in whom we do belong.
niz
ON THE ROAD AGAIN
The first thing we usually do before going on a trip is planning on how we will get there. Especially if we are driving, we should seek instructions, directions on which roads to take. I am sure most of us like to travel, go on a road trip. I like to stop along the way, especially for breakfast. I like to start really early, go a good distance then stop.We all have our preferences on how to travel. Some of us go to some same places and have different roads we might take to get there. There are shortcuts, some ways to beat congestion at certain times of the day, back roads, side roads.There are main highways that take us upstate, downstate, across state and out of state.There are signs pointing the way which help when you are unfamiliar with the surroundings. The same thing with the road we take in life. So many ways to go, so many crossroads , so many people ready to give directions and so many signs pointing in the wrong direction. Before one comes to know the Lord, it is the road referred to as the one paved with good intentions, I should read more, I should pray, or I should seek direction from God.The Lord calls and we are on the road again with one sign pointing the way, the cross.
Isa 35:8
A highway shall be there, and a road, And it shall be called the Highway of Holiness. The unclean shall not pass over it, But it [shall be] for others. Whoever walks the road, although a fool, Shall not go astray.
Wrong Turn
John Macarthur
“Today people think they can find God—and salvation—along many paths. It’s said there are many roads that lead to heaven – you just have to find the right one for you. Yet those are all roads that go nowhere near heaven. Worse, they lead straight to hell. The question for you is, What path are you on – what road are you traveling? Have you ever wondered whether you really know God? If you have, you’re not alone. And there’s no more important issue you can resolve in your life than the nature of your relationship with God.”
Psa 49:11
Their inner thought [is that] their houses [will last] forever, [fn] Their dwelling places to all generations; They call [their] lands after their own names.
Psa 49:12
Nevertheless man, [though] in honor, does not remain; [fn] He is like the beasts [that] perish.
Psa 49:13
This is the way of those who [are] foolish, And of their posterity who approve their sayings. Selah
Again it points to the things we value most. The need for wealth or possessions can sway us toward the wrong road( idolatry greed).That road is like being on a treadmill, no matter how long you walk , or how many miles you cover, when you stop you are in the same place,in sin.
Pro 1:15
My son, do not walk in the way with them, Keep your foot from their path
Pro 4:14
Do not enter the path of the wicked, And do not walk in the way of evil.
Pro 2:15
Whose ways [are] crooked, And [who are] devious in their paths;
Be on guard for those who promise easy wealth.Be prepared for temptation, for the world we live in is full of false promises on how to succeed.
The Way
Lord I ask for Your direction
For wisdom in all I do
Know Your will for me
In obedience follow it through
Have that sense of balance
Know my steps are sure
Rely upon Your strength
In all I must endure
Pray for Your guidance
Listen to what You say
Walk in blessed assurance
For You are the life, the truth, the way.
niz
Crossroads
Eventually we come upon that fork in the road. That moment when there is a choice of direction for our future.For those unsaved they think about it, maybe do a lot of research on the subject. There is no guidance from the Holy Spirit. Their motivation is self serving, most likely under the influence of the world and its traps.
Pro 12:26
The righteous should choose his friends carefully, For the way of the wicked leads them astray.
Pro 14:12
There is a way [that seems] right to a man, But its end [is] the way of death.
Pro 21:16
A man who wanders from the way of understanding Will rest in the assembly of the dead.
We as Christians have the privilege of prayer, the ability to communicate with the Lord. Those who do not know Him are exposed to the temptations of the world with nothing to rely on but their own thoughts as to which way to go.What a scary thought, not having the Holy Spirit to guide and direct.
Isa 28:29
This also comes from the LORD of hosts, [Who] is wonderful in counsel [and] excellent in guidance.We must make sure that all our decisions come after praying to our Lord for direction. It would be foolish to ever take matters into our own hands.
Jer 10:23
O LORD, I know the way of man [is] not in himself; [It is] not in man who walks to direct his own steps.
Road Signs
Again the lure of the world comes into the picture. First imagine driving somewhere you have never been to. Having no directions and there are no road signs. Depending on how far you were going, you might never get there. Now imagine someone put up road signs that were misleading, wrong turns and such, you again would probably not reach your destination.
Psa 141:9
Keep me from the snares they have laid for me, And from the traps of the workers of iniquity.
Mat 26:41
“Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed [is] willing, but the flesh [is] weak.”
1Ti 6:9
But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and [into] many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition.
I have said before using that saying, misery loves company. Be careful for there will always be people who will have the wrong directions. Some with just bad advice, meaning well but still pointing in the wrong direction. Career choices, school choices and friend choices all very important, all roads that we will be on for a length of time. Ask God to help you make those choices, for no matter which choices we end up making, they should all have the same destination. The road we choose in achieving our goals must be mapped out with the correct road signs, holy scripture.
THE ROAD
I know the road I need to take
It has been laid out all along
My back pack will be light
All I need is praise and song
Though it is long I needn’t worry
I have provisions to reach my goal
In the distance the SON over the horizon
The salvation to light my soul.
Niz
Destination
When we start off on a trip we usually have a check list of what we need.First of all of course where we are going, how to get there, what we need for the trip.Our lifes journey is the same scenario
Where we are going
Phl 3:20 For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ,
1Th 4:16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first.
1Pe 1:4 to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you,
Mat 24:31 “And He will send His angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they will gather together His elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
Our goal is eternal life with God, that is our destination.
Follow The Road Signs
The best way to travel is follow the signs. Look for the roads labeled love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, look to yourself and see if you display these signs. See if the friends you make display those signs, if so you are on the right road.
Gal 5:22
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
What We Need To Get There
Good transportation, supplies, fuel and a road map, agreed? His Spirit was given to us to guide and help us, what better way to travel than with the Spirit.
Jhn 14:26
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.
Jhn 15:26
“But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me.
Supplies:
things to nourish our bodies during a long journey are needed, and fuel.
1Cr 11:24
and when He had given thanks, He broke [it] and said, “Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”
Jhn 6:47 -48
“Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me [fn] has everlasting life.
“I am the bread of life.
1Pe 2:2
as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby,
Naturally in our human form we need a car for our trip, regular food and gas and a map that we googled, but in our eternal journey, we need the Holy Spirit, the Bread Of Life and Gods Word.We need Christ in our lives to reach our eternal destination.
Isa 48:17
Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer, The Holy One of Israel: “I [am] the LORD your God, Who teaches you to profit, Who leads you by the way you should go.
Jhn 14:6
Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.
Look to the word for everything. Allow God to speak through His living word. Follow directions, heed the signs. Look to the cross for there is only one road to take. There are many turns and hills and you may stumble along the way but He promised to take care of us. He is our shelter in a storm. Glory to our wonderful God. Praise Him that He called. We are off the road of the damned; now regenerated, renewed, forgiven. On The Road Again, the right one.
THE PATH
I stopped for a while, by the side of the roa
Looking for a place to rest and pray
Gathering my thoughts I felt overwhelmed
I had so many things I needed to say
You see this road had so many turns
I felt tired and so all alone
I fell to my knees and started to pray
At once I was kneeling before His throne
My burden lightened, I began to run
Praising God for what my heart heard
The road I was on was my path in life
To boldly go forth and spread His word.
A Day At The Beach
The draw of water is universal. It is life sustaining, refreshing, and cleansing. It is beautiful, captivating, powerful and tranquil.
It can be dangerous because of its tides and currents and power. Rain provides the main ingredient crops and flowers need to grow, Some of our favorite memories as children could be days spent at the beach or a lake or stream. Memories of swimming, fishing or boating.Some of my memories are of open fire hydrants (johnny pumps) and summer downpours that was for a lot of times, my water sports. Don’t get me wrong I am not complaining they are fond memories. The point is how big a part waters or terms about water plays out in our lives. It is mentioned 460 times in Gods word.
Drowning And Thirsting
Drowning, this word has been used a few different ways. Drowning in a pool of bills, drowning ones sorrows or drowning in sin, which you would be doing if you were drowning your sorrows. Drowning is a frightful way for one to die, even imagining the feeling is scary.
1Ti 6:9
But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition.
Luk 8:23 But as they sailed He fell asleep. And a windstorm came down on the lake, and they were filling with water, and were in jeopardy. (because they feared drowning)
Something to avoid in the water is a bad rip tide, which can pull you away from shore and the more you struggle to get back the harder it gets. You lose your energy and strength and succumb to the water. It is very similar to going through life thinking every thing is good, and falling into a trap or snare set by the world. The more you struggle in your own power, the harder it is to get back. It might not be us that is drowning, but there are so many that are, right in front of our eyes. Are we capable swimmers, I pray so. Are we capable of saving them from drowning? No, but we can help keep their heads above the water by ministering to them and pray that Christ becomes their lifeline.
Thirsting
Where drowning is too much water, thirsting is the opposite. I am sure we have all experienced being thirsty. That first sip of a drink usually water, is amazing when you are really thirsty. Dying or almost dying of thirst must be excruciating.
Exd 17:3
And the people thirsted there for water, and the people complained against Moses, and said, “Why is it you have brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our livestock with thirst?”
Jdg 15:18
Then he became very thirsty; so he cried out to the LORD and said, “You have given this great deliverance by the hand of Your servant; and now shall I die of thirst and fall into the hand of the uncircumcised?”
Psa 69:21
They also gave me gall for my food, And for my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.
This was a foretelling of the crucifixion mentioned in Matt 27:34 they gave Him sour wine mingled with gall to drink. But when He had tasted it, He would not drink.
Again some of those around us are thirsty,some dying of thirst. The thirst that Christ refers to in the Word.
Can we quench this thirst? No, but we can show them the way to the well, we can lead them to the oasis, again through our ministry.
Swimming
Such a great thing to do on a summer day. The ocean, a lake, a river, so many great places to enjoy the water. To be able to stay afloat is awesome; to be able to swim proficiently is even a better sensation. The references in the bible about water refer to different uses and occasions. Raging seas (as mentioned before when they were on the lake) can be scary, just like troubled waters in our lives. We know Someone who can calm those waters so we can stay afloat, even swim proficiently. Luk 8:24 -25 And they came to Him and awoke Him, saying, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” Then He arose and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water. And they ceased, and there was a calm.
But He said to them, “Where is your faith?” And they were afraid, and marveled, saying to one another, “Who can this be? For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!” The point is almost anyone can stay afloat doing the doggie paddle. Some longer than others, eventually you have to rest. He enables you to swim to shore. Those that do not know Him are doing the doggie paddle with no land in sight.
Hbr 3:18 And to whom did He swear that they would not enter His rest, but to those who did not obey?
2Cr 7:5
For indeed, when we came to Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were troubled on every side. Outside were conflicts, inside were fears.
As I said before if we know Gods word, and we are His disciples we should be capable swimmers.Look for those that are treading water, look with your heart.
Col 4:5-6
Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.
Aren’t you glad you are a swimmer?
Uses Of Water
The Word mentions washing and drinking, both very important things in daily life. We certainly do not want to be thirsty or unclean. A cold drink of water or a nice cool shower on a hot day are both enjoyable events.We spoke about thirst already but imaging working in the garden digging, pulling weeds, planting. Doing all that on a hot, very hot summer day. Then at the end of the day there is no water due to a water main break.For lack of a better term yuck.Our hearts are in the same condition when we do not know Christ. There is no cleaning up until you know Him.
Cleansing
Jer 4:14
O Jerusalem, wash your heart from wickedness, That you may be saved. How long shall your evil thoughts lodge within you?
Eph 5:26
that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,
Jhn 15:3
“You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you.
Act 22:16
‘And now why are you waiting? Arise and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on the name of the Lord.’
Now imagine working for a company in the desert. The worst case scenario, you get back to your camp your canteen is empty.(do they still use canteens?) The water supply at camp has leaked while you were away and you are almost out of gas in your vehicle. Oh and I almost forgot the battery in you cell phone is low so of course you cant reach anyone out it is the same for sinners, eventually dying of thirst is the outcome.We all need to drink.
Drinking
Luk 22:18 “for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.”
Luke 22:30 “that you may eat and drink at My table in My kingdom, and sit on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.”
Jhn 4:10 Jesus answered and said to her, “If you knew the gift of God, and who it is who says to you, ‘Give Me a drink,’ you would have asked Him, and He would have given you living water.” (Living water refers to the Holy Spirit dwelling within a believer)
Jhn 7:37 On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink.
That is thirsts for God, go to Jesus and drink—enter into a relationship with Him.
I repeat, we all need a drink. What a blessing we know where the well is and can show others.
I urge you to spend a “day at the beach” that is spend some time in meditation on the water.The vast ocean, the mighty rivers, lakes, ponds, streams and reflect upon where it all comes from.To wash us, quench our thirst, to help the earth produce. What an amazing creation. Our Lord and Savior Jesus spoke about our souls in the same way. The living water that cleanses us, quenches our thirst, gives us life. Remember to praise Him in prayer for He is always there. The one who is able to walk upon the water, the One who calms the troubled seas, the oasis in the desert. The living water that flows eternally.
Living Water
I kept coming to the well
Ever drinking yet always weak
Till You impressed upon my heart
Living water, I needed to seek
Now I kneel at the well
Praise You Lord, my thirst quenched
Your grace more than amazing
In Your living water I am drenched.
niz
Call To Worship
Imagine if you still lived in the times of Kings. If one day you were going to have an audience with the King.. The day before would be all about preperation, probably a sleepless night.That morning would probably be about practicing what we were going to say. Do we all agree to that? Today when ever people meet dignitaries there is certain protocol for the introductions. The right way to bow in certain countries, a salute, a handshake, the correct greeting. No one wants to be disrespectful.Do you see where I am going with this?
Psa 95:6
O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker.
Misdirected Worship
Exd 34:14
for you shall worship no other god, for the LORD, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God
Do we have a lack of respect in our worship?
worship: reverence offered a divine being or supernatural power; also : an act of expressing such reverence
extravagant respect or admiration for or devotion to an object of esteem <worship of the dollar>.
In the last lesson about treasure we spoke of things some treasure in this world, mainly possesions. In the second explanation of worship, the worship of an object, the dollar is mentioned. Again as we learned last lesson that object, the thing we treasure becomes our idol.
Psa 81:9
There shall no strange god be in thee; neither shalt thou worship any strange god.
Psa 97:7
Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, all [ye] gods.
Isa 2:8
Their land also is full of idols; they worship the work of their own hands, that which their own fingers have made:
Isa 2:20
In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made [each one] for himself to worship, to the moles and to the bats;
Isa 46:6
They lavish gold out of the bag, and weigh silver in the balance, [and] hire a goldsmith; and he maketh it a god: they fall down, yea, they worship.
Jer 13:10
This evil people, which refuse to hear my words, which walk in the imagination of their heart, and walk after other gods, to serve them, and to worship them, shall even be as this girdle, which is good for nothing.
It is spoken of so many times,God must have been making a point of the many different forms of things we can worship in sin.We all must be aware of the traps and pitfalls the enemy has laid out for us. Things that make us feel secure (riches), things that are pleasurable to our senses. If we give in and they take up our time they become our idols.
Mat 4:8 –10
Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.”
Then Jesus said to him, “Away with you, [fn] Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ”
The enemy puts all these things in front of us hoping to get our eyes off of Our Lord. We enjoy good music, good movies, good books and there are so many of these things that are pleasurable to us. They appeal to our senses, but keep it clean. The content is sometimes sneaky. The script or lyrics for sensationalism is altered towards our senses. Nudity, foul language that is not necessary is put in and it becomes the norm.
1Pe 5:8
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.
I can not emphasize it enough for all of us, the importance of staying in the Word and prayer. I have said it before, the more we do that the more we are in communication with Him.Then we are less apt to confuse ourselves with the natural bent toward sin.
Enjoy music, books and movies but be aware of the traps. Beware of the subtleness of idolatry.
Phl 3:3 For we are the circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh,
How To Worship
Deu 6:5
“You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.”
Attitude and Preperation for Worship
So now we are preparing for an audience with the King of Kings. We may be on our way to service, or prayer time with other Christians. Whatever time we are about to spend with our King should be in reverence, unlike those who bowed in audience to the king due to protocol. They did it out of fear. Was the king in a bad mood so that anything they would do would not please him?
We are approaching God with our petitions, requests and praises, but it should not be in that order. I believe it should be first, reverent praise to an almighty God who allows us to approach the throne. A loving God who allows us to communicate with Him. A caring and forgiving God, who looks past all our shortcomings and looks straight into our hearts.
John Piper said, “The content of our singing and praying and welcoming and preaching and poetry will always conform to the truth of Scripture. The content of God’s Word will be woven through all we do in worship and will be the ground of all our appeal to authority.”
Singing
Psa 100:2
Serve the LORD with gladness; Come before His presence with singing
Praying
1Ki 8:54 And so it was, when Solomon had finished praying all this prayer and supplication to the LORD, that he arose from before the altar of the LORD, from kneeling on his knees with his hands spread up to heaven.
Preaching
2Ch 6:19 Yet regard the prayer of Your servant and his supplication, O LORD my God, and listen to the cry and the prayer which Your servant is praying before You:
1Cr 9:14 Even so the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel.
1Cr 9:16 For if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for necessity is laid upon me; yes, woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!
Poetry
Above All Things
My eyes upon the Cross
Above all things
The focus of my life
The message it brings
The Son of God was sent
To die upon that tree
From eternal condemnation
I was set free
Undeserving, ever thankful
My new soul sings
My eyes upon the Cross
Above all things
niz
“A high priority of the vertical focus of our Sunday morning service. The ultimate aim is to so experience God that He is glorified in our affections.”
“We do not just direct ourselves toward Him. We earnestly seek His drawing near according to the promise of James 4:8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
We believe that in worship God draws near to us in power, and makes Himself known and felt for our good and for the salvation of unbelievers in the midst.”
Glorifying Worship
Worship that aims at kindling and carrying deep, strong, real emotions toward God.
We should approach worship of the Lord with esteemed reverance
Psa 30:12
To the end that [my] glory may sing praise to You and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever.
1Ch 16:29
Give to the LORD the glory due His name; Bring an offering, and come before Him. Oh, worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness!
Psa 95:6
Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker.
Psa 96:9
Oh, worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness! Tremble before Him, all the earth.
Psa 138:2
I will worship toward Your holy temple, And praise Your name For Your lovingkindness and Your truth; For You have magnified Your word above all Your name.
Psa 47:6
Sing praises to God, sing praises! Sing praises to our King, sing praises!
Psa 29:2
Give unto the LORD the glory due to His name; Worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.
Our lives should be about worship, for it should be about giving Him the glory in all we do.Glory to God for our salvation.
Psa 62:7
In God [is] my salvation and my glory; The rock of my strength, [And] my refuge, [is] in God. Glory to Him for our surroundings.
Psa 72:19
And blessed [be] His glorious name forever! And let the whole earthbe filled [with] His glory. Amen and Amen. Glory to Him for all He provides
Psa 84:11
For the LORD God [is] a sun and shield; The LORD will give grace and glory; No good [thing] will He withhold From those who walk uprightly.
As we prepare to kneel in prayer, or are about to sing to Him, or are about to dwell upon His Word, we realize Who He is. Give mind to an almighty God. Know that You approach The Throne of the King of Kings. Even in the simplest moment of prayer, when you are in the car or on the train, it is All Mighty God who you are calling upon.Worship with reverence, awe, joy, gladness, love, honor, thankfulness and praise.
Glory To God
To walk in the footsteps
Guided by the Lord
Follow the example
That must not be ignored
To be sensitive to His Spirit
In all we say and do
Know the desire of the Lord
At once follow it through
Perfect obedience what we long for
Thus should be our life story
To live a life for Christ
Give God all the glory.
niz