A clothesline

Probably because I look back on the time I lived with my grandmother as being the best years of my childhood and two of my jobs were washing dishes and hanging out the laundry that both jobs bring good memories to me. They both are relaxing to me and to this day I don’t mind doing dishes by hand and I actually love hanging out clothes on a line.  Until we moved to Pueblo, we always had a clothesline, or I’d rig one up a line or two to hang clothes on.  If you look closely behind my two oldest girls and our blind dog sitting in the grass in front of the little picket fence of a ramshackle place we lived 53 summers ago, you will see clothes I hung up on a makeshift clothesline.

I glanced out my dining room window into the unkept back yard of my Pueblo neighbor and I saw something I wanted-a clothesline.

My thoughts took it even further: “they don’t even use it!” I said to myself.  Then the Holy SPIRIT nudged me, “you are lusting, Sharon.”

“Oh, LORD,” I cried out, “I’m sorry, Thank you for my dryer.”

Then the realization hit, and I had to smile at the humor of GOD in answering my arrow prayer for a lead-in to the devotion HE had just nudged me to write.

After the waves of the Red Sea came crashing down over their enemies- the Egyptian troops chasing them, “then the Hebrews believed GOD’s words, they sang HIS praise.  Not long after they forgot HIS works, they waited not for HIS counsel, but lusted exceedingly in the wilderness and tempted GOD in the desert (Psalm 106:12-14).

What happened?  The Jews got to thinking about the different kinds of food they had back in Egypt. The more they thought about it, the more they focused on it and forgot all about what GOD had and was doing for them. 

Scientists have discovered a way to see thoughts and have learned that each thought is like a small branch growing on a tree.  If I understand correctly, the more you think of something the stronger the branch becomes.  We really need to stop here and think about that for a moment.  Reliving hurts or desires will make them grow stronger and stronger.

Here in Pueblo, we have some old trees with huge branches.  As you think about wanting something over and over, it becomes a stronghold, like a huge branch (2 Corinthians 10:4) that keeps you captive and you revisit those thoughts. 

But just as the snow and heavy winds this past winter have broken huge branches from the trees, so GOD tells us to take captive our thoughts.  For me that means talking every thought over with JESUS.  When I do I begin seeing things differently.  For HE impresses my heart with HIS heart. The Bible speaks much about choosing to change our thoughts and being renewed in our minds.

John 14:1 Let not your heart (thoughts) be troubled, Believe in GOD, believe also in ME.”

Proverbs 3:5 “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding”.

Romans 12:2 “…do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

Philippians 4:6-7 “Be anxious about nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to GOD. And the peace of GOD will throw you beyond having to understand and will guard and keep you heart and mind.”

2 Corinthians 4:15 “For all things are for your sakes…16 …therefore, we do not lose heart…17 for our momentary and light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison (the pain of today) 18 while we look not at the things we seen (our situation with its struggles), but at what is not seen (that which GOD is achieving and producing for us through our situation with its struggles).  For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

We lust when we focus on what we think we want- it makes us dissatisfied with what we have, and we lose proper perspective. That lust and our dissatisfaction will grow in intensity as we think on it.  But, we have the power of GOD to run to JESUS for mercy and grace to help in our times of need (Hebrews 4:16).  When my thoughts go where they should not, I run to JESUS pour out what I am feeling and HE enables me by showing me HIS perspective (2 Corinthians 10:5). I don’t know how HE does it, but it really works for me.

Looking unto JESUS, the Author and perfecter of my faith.

Hugs

Sharon

Walk together

My big sister Rosie and I were just two years apart and here we are walking together back in the day. The cars in the picture give you a clue just how many years have passed by since that walk.

Jesus said “If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you” (John 15:7).

Wow, that is some promise!

To abide with someone, we must simply walk hand in hand in agreement with them about where we are going.

How can two walk together unless they agree? Amos 3:3

When we walk in agreement with JESUS (which according to HIS word) we get to know HIM better and better. We learn how HE thinks and what HE wants (Philippians 2:13, Hebrews 10:16).

But for HIS word to abide in us, we must know it. So, we need to take some time every day to grow in our knowledge of HIM by spending time in HIS word and prayer (2 Peter 1:1-4). Then as we walk hand in hand with JESUS desiring HIS will, the HOLY SPIRIT will bring HIS words to our minds (John 14:26) and as we comply to those nudges to act HIS word abides in us and we can ask what we will, and it will be done for us.

Isn’t the simplicity of CHRIST amazing and beautiful?

Hugs

Sharon

Ever wonder WHO are us and our?

Ever thought about who is being spoken of when GOD said, “Let us make man in our image” Genesis 1:26.  Who are the US and the OUR? Elsewhere they are called the GODHEAD and Christians calls them the TRINITY.

For me it is exciting when I see THE THREE in ONE working together for THE THREE in ONE do all things, working in conjunction/ unity with one another.  We see it in many places like in creation (Genesis 1), JESUS baptism (John 3:13-17) and witnessing (1 John 5:7).

Here is an ever so simple glimpse of our GOD.  HE is ONE in essence and in HIS divine nature. Scriptures name HIS persons and some of HIS basic known roles. This little note doesn’t even begin to tackle GOD’s nature, purposes or ways.  It’s just a tiny overview glimpse that I was thinking about as I thought about the promise of 1 John 3:2.

1-GOD our FATHER is SPIRIT (John 4:23-24), from HIM all good and perfect gifts flow and with HIM there is no variation, change or turning (James 1:17). HE is the Author- neither JESUS (John 8:28) nor the HOLY SPIRIT (John 16:13) spoke their own words with humans, both spoke only what they were told to say. And both pray to the FATHER (Romans 8:26,34, Hebrews 7:25), for from GOD the FATHER all flows.  That is why JESUS tells us to pray to the FATHER in HIS name (John 16:23).

2-JESUS is the eternal Word made flesh is GOD (John 1:1-3, 14).  We are told: JESUS is the fulness of the GODHEAD in body form (Colossians 2:9) through whom GOD the FATHER speaks and created all things (Hebrews 1:1-3). That means GOD the SON took on a human body (Philippians 2:7-8) so that mankind could see what the GODHEAD’s divine nature is like and so HE could die for the sins of man. For GOD is love and HE sent HIS Only Begotten SON that whosoever believed in HIM might not endure wrath but have eternal life (John 3:16, 36).

“All have sinned and come short of the glory of GOD” (Romans 3:23).  Sin destroys so it must be destroyed. “The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23) and only through believing in JESUS, who carried our sins on the cross, is there forgiveness of sin.

“In whom (JESUS) we have redemption through HIS blood, even the forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:14).  JESUS said, “I said therefore unto you, that you shall die in your sins: for if you believe not that I am HE (GOD the SON, the lamb of GOD who takes away the sin of the world), you shall die in your sins (John 8:24).

3-The SPIRIT of GOD is SPIRIT. In the New Testament HE is often call the HOLY SPIRIT (or HOLY GHOST) for HIS role with mankind is to call us and guide us into HOLINESS –purity, separating us to GOD from the world. JESUS said all who believe in HIM would receive the HOLY SPIRIT and HE would be like a steam of living water flowing through us (John 7:38-39) producing in and through us HIS fruit (Galatians 5:22-23).

We are told HE convicts people of sin (John 16:8).  HE gives 2^nd birth (John 3:5) to everyone who believes in JESUS, HE seals believers unto the day of redemption (Ephesians 1:13, 4:30), HE baptizes believers into the body of CHRIST (1 Corinthians 12:13, 27) allots believers with spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7-11), reveals truth (2 Corinthians 3:18), teaches, reminds, (John 14:26) and leads us in all truth, empowers us to witness and to do (Acts 1:8, Philippians 2:13)  and tells of things to come (16:13-14). HE interprets GOD’s words for us (1 Corinthians 2:10-12) in fact HE moved the writers of the Bible in what they should say (2 Peter 1:22-21). HE prays for us, walks with us and leads we who believe in JESUS as well as restraining the evil of this world  and the lawless one from utter chaos until the appointed time (2 Thessalonians 2:6-7).

Lo, these are parts of HIS ways: but how little a portion is heard of HIM? but the thunder of HIS power who can understand? (Job 26:14).

I leave it to you to check these things out and discover more of the wonder of our  GOD.

Hugs

Sharon

No favorites

Have you ever had a ‘Bestie’ (best friend)? Although I’ve many friends, not all do I share my heart with. How does one become that to you? For me it was by spending time with another, learning about each another and sharing interests that I get to trust enough to share my heart. I don’t do that easily.

Every single one who comes in faith and calls on the name of the LORD JESUS (Romans 10:13) is born into GOD’s family and becomes GOD’s beloved child (John 1:12).  Now GOD doesn’t have favorites, but HE definitely does have intimates (ones HE tells HIS secrets to- Psalm 25:14).  It is your choice which category you fit in. 

Just as GOD offers salvation to all and gives it to all who choose to believe in JESUS (John 3:16), all who have become HIS children obtain many things like salvation, eternal life, GOD the HOLY SPIRIT to live within us to teach and empower us, unlimited access to the throne of GOD the FATHER and so much more. But you and I individually are the ones who choose to either draw near to GOD or not.  It is the ones who seek GOD’s face daily in HIS Word and prayer that get to know HIM best.  To the others, those who spend time with GOD may seem to be GOD’s favorites, they often think GOD talks with them more. 

Actually, GOD speaks to all of HIS children, but the ones who spend time with GOD have come to quickly recognize HIS voice and know HIS heart. By daily listening to HIS voice in the Bible and doing what they know they should do.  Therefore, they listen expecting GOD to speak and understand what HE means when HE impresses verses or thoughts on their heart.

Hosea 6:6 TLB GOD says, “I don’t want your sacrifices- I want your love; I don’t want your offerings– I want you to know ME!”

Can’t you just hear GOD’s heart, longing for a relationship with you and me in that verse? 

Prayerfully read 2 Peter 1:1-4 and you will get a glimpse of some of the awesome things that await anyone who will spend time with GOD and grows to know GOD better.

So, how do we grow to love GOD more?

A line from my 1st favorite song as a 7th grader in the mid 50’s was, “to know, know, know you is to love, love, love you and I do, I do I do.”

That is true in my relationship with GOD, to know HIM and HIS ways causes me to love HIM more and more.  As I read GOD’s word and I see GOD’s love and HIS wisdom as HE relates to others, I get to know HIM better and love HIM more.

“JESUS said if you love ME you will do what I say” (John 14:15 NLV).  That is not legalism it is following the instructions of someone you trust to know best.

The fact is I have experienced GOD being there for me, through sadness and tears, times I have fallen on my face, times when I don’t know what to do or am afraid.  Through it all I have learned that GOD is there for me,  cares about me and what I go through.  GOD gave the best because HE loves me. 

“HE (GOD the FATHER) that spared not HIS own SON (JESUS), but delivered HIM up for us all, how shall HE not with HIM also freely give us all things” (Romans 8:32).

As I have seen GOD’s wisdom in HIS creation and in how HE has worked in my life and others, how HE has walked me through death and struggles and brought good out of what seemed horrendous situations and have learned to trust HIM no matter how things look.  Therefore, I don’t hesitate to do what HE nudges me to do.  I delight in doing what HE wants for I know it is the best thing to do and is for my benefit even if it makes no sense to me or even hurts.

How about you?  Are you getting to know the LORD?  Have you learned to trust HIM?

Hugs

Sharon

GOD can be trusted

What do you call someone who says one thing and does another?

If a someone doesn’t follow through and do what he says he will do, can you trust anything he says?  Since GOD does what HE says HE will do we can trust GOD’s word-the Bible. 

“GOD is not a man, that HE should lie; neither the son of man, that HE should repent: has HE said, and shall HE not do it? or has HE spoken, and shall HE not make it good?” Numbers 23:19

Years and years before certain things occurred GOD said they would happen. Then at the appointed time they came to be.  Things like a virgin giving birth at Nazareth, and shepherds and wise men coming to see the little one. Prophesy, especially fulfilled prophesy, is what makes the Bible stand out above all other books and is something we can trust.  Nearly 1/3^rd of the Bible is prophesy.  Much has been fulfilled but there are still things exciting and even terrible yet to come that GOD has foretold would happen and they will!

“Remember the former things of old: for I am GOD, and there is none else; I am GOD, and there is none like me,Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, MY counsel shall stand, and I will do all MY pleasure… yea, I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it” (Isaiah 46:9-11).

JESUS said, “Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of GOD” Matthew 4:4.  One reason to daily be in GOD’s word is that by knowing the truth we can tell a lie when we hear it.

“YOUR (GOD’s) word is true from the beginning: and every one of YOUR righteous judgments endures forever” Psalm 119:160.

Just as GOD speaks to us through HIS HOLY SPIRIT and the Bible, so the enemy whispers lies into our ears, as he did to Eve in the garden.  The key to not being fooled is to check everything with the Bible to see if what is say is true.  (just a note: one of the devil’s names is ‘accuser of the Brethren’ so you can pretty well tell where those snide thoughts of what another is thinking or doing come from.

“Now the SPIRIT speaks expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed (listening to those whispers) to seducing spirits, and doctrines (inspired by the whispers) of devils” 1 Timothy 4:1.

Several well known and applauded Bible teachers are promoting doctrine that GOD cast away HIS people the Jews and thereby is breaking HIS promises to them.

This current false doctrine of replacement theology stating that GOD is done with the Jews because of their sins and that GOD has canceled/ reneged on HIS promises to the nation of Israel is being presented as truth by big name Bible teachers. They say GOD is done with nation of Jews so the land HE gave to them now belongs to others.

 If we believe not, yet HE abides faithful: HE cannot deny HIMSELF (HIS divine NATURE)  2 Timothy 2:13.

For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith (faithfulness) of GOD without effect? Romans 3:3

…yea, I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it Isaiah 46:11

The Jews right now, as a whole, are in unbelief.  But the Bible says that GOD has not and will not cast away HIS people (the Jews). “ For the Lord will not forsake HIS people for HIS great name’s sake: because it has pleased the Lord to make you HIS people.   1 Samuel 12:22 (see also Romans 11:1-5)

Are GOD’s promises to the Jews still in effect even though they are in unbelief?  Have they been completely cast aside? “…blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.  And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob: For this is MY covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins” Romans 11:25-27

What has GOD prophesied that HE will do to take away sin so that HE may be just and the justifier of the Jews? “ To declare, I say, at this time HIS righteousness: that HE might be just, and the justifier of HIM which believes in JESUS” Romans 3:26  ^“Much more then, being now justified by HIS blood, we shall be saved from wrath through HIM” Romans 5:9.

Daniel’s was a Jew and his people are the Jews. Daniel was told “Seventy weeks (of years) are determined upon your people and upon your holy city (Jerusalem), to (1) finish the transgression, and to (2) make an end of sins, and to (3) make reconciliation for iniquity, and to (4) bring in everlasting righteousness, and to (5) seal up the vision and prophecy, and to (6) anoint the most Holy”  Daniel 9:24.

The last week (7 years) is also called Jacob’s Trouble showing that time is, in part, a time of discipline for the Jews.  “Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob’s trouble, but he shall be saved out of it” Jeremiah 30:7.

Zechariah 13:8 says 2/3 of all Jews will die in unbelief during the Tribulation (the last 7). But 1/3 of the Jews surviving the Tribulation will be purified through what they suffer and come to faith. “And it shall come to pass, that in all the land, say the Lord, two parts therein shall be cut off and die; but the third shall be left therein.  And I (the LORD) will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on MY name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is MY people: and they shall say, The Lord is my GOD” Zechariah 13:8-9.

During the 2^nd half of the Tribulation, the last 3 ½ years, GOD has prepared a place for the GOD-fearing Jews to flee to and will hide them there during that time. Revelation 12:6, 13-14

But when JESUS comes back the 2^nd time with HIS armies (us) to the battle of Armageddon the surviving Jews will see the LORD and recognize JESUS as the one they pierced.  At that time, they we weep with great sorrow and the Spirit of grace (conviction from the HOLY SPIRIT) is poured out on them and they will cry out to HIM.

“All who call  on the name of the LORD shall be saved” Acts 2:21, Romans 10:13

“And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the SPIRIT of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon ME whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for HIM, as one mourns for his only son…” Zechariah 12:10

Therefore, we see the 1/3 – all the surviving Jews are saved and get eternal life when they see JESUS and believe in HIM.

“And so all Israel shall be saved: as it is written, There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob:For this is MY covenant unto them, when I shall take away their sins” Romans 11:26-27.

Regardless of who says what, don’t blindly accept things, even from great teachers.    Check them out by searching the Bible to see if such is true Acts 17:11.

This has been long for I felt compelled to expose the lie.  Thank you for sticking with me through it all. 

Hugs

Sharon

Are you clinging?

When you have a break in the daily hassle, where does your mind go?  What are you looking forward to?

“Those who cling to worthless idols turn away from GOD’s love for them (Jonah 2:8 NIV).

“Those who worship worthless idols forfeit the mercy that could be theirs” (Jonah 2:8 NET)

“they have wandered far from ME (the LORD GOD) and walked after emptiness and futility and became empty” (Jeremiah 2:5).

Using the  paraphrase of Jeremiah 2:5 “Chasing after emptiness they emptied themselves out,” I asked an alcoholic, “Is your thirst/ the hole/ the need for more getting bigger?  Do you seem emptier?”  She said, “yes.  Nothing satisfies for long.”

Chasing after and clinging to the momentary delights of this world, whatever form it takes, turns us away from all GOD offers not just for this life but for the next as well.

The LORD says, “Call unto ME in the day of trouble, I will deliver you!” (Psalm 50:15).  For only those who call on the name of the LORD (JESUS) will be saved (Romans 10:13).

What are you, what am I holding onto that keeps us from seeking the LORD with all our hearts?

Hugs

Sharon

Assignment

“… some have not the knowledge of GOD: I speak this to your shame” (1 Corinthians 15:34).

Every Christian is called to witness of JESUS (Acts 1:8) who GOD the FATHER sent because HE loved the world and wanted to restore a relationship with us and give us eternal life (John 3:16, 17:3).

After all JESUS suffered for us, witnessing of HIS love and telling all HE gives to anyone who will believe seems a reasonable assignment.

“CHRIST died for our sins according to the scriptures;  And that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4) to set all who will believe on HIM free from the sin that separates them from GOD (Isaiah 59:2).

JESUS said, “I said therefore unto you, that you shall die in your sins: for if you believe not that I am HE (the SON of GOD, the lamb of GOD that takes away the sins of the world), you shall die in your sins (John 8:24).

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD” (Romans 6:23).

Now if that isn’t a motivator to keep speaking out about JESUS, I don’t know what is.  It shouts at me. 

There are times I’d rather not give out the message GOD nudges me to share with you all.  But, I need to regardless of how I feel or how you respond.

What about you? Are you ever hesitant to speak out about our Savior?  Is there someone in your sphere of influence, or even general interaction that needs to hear of our marvelous GOD and HIS plan to save?

One of my grandsons has been duped by the lies of this world to think that there is no GOD.  He is really into computers and gaming, though young, he develops games on his own.  The other day he was telling me some the challenges about creating the opposing armies of turtles in it.  After telling some of the differences, such as color, he mentioned that they will destroy their enemy by merely opening their mouths. 

It was the perfect opening, I couldn’t help myself.  I said, “that reminds me of the battle of Armageddon (Revelation 19), where JESUS gallops out of heaven riding a white horse with HIS armies (us) behind HIM on white horses.  At that time JESUS simply opens HIS mouth, in which is the two-edged sword, which we know is the Word of GOD (Hebrews 4:12, Ephesians 6:17).  By merely opening HIS mouth HE slays the nations and all the multitudes that oppose HIM.  HIS armies don’t have to do a thing, they just look on in wonder at their KING, and see the glory of the LORD and the power of HIS word (Revelation 19:11-15)., the very word that created the universes” (Genesis 1).

Then I told my grandson, “Boy, I want to be in those armies behind JESUS riding down out of heaven, and not the ones facing HIS coming to earth!  What about you?” 

My grandson shook his head affirmingly up and down.

So, you see, GOD will open up windows of opportunities to witness of our marvelously Awesome GOD.  Take those opportunities and then you will not need to be ashamed of neglecting your assignment.

Looking unto and awaiting JESUS, the Author and Perfecter of my faith.

Hugs

Sharon

Is GOD fair?

GOD is the Sovereign LORD who made the heavens and the earth and all that is therein certainly has the right and ability to do whatever HE wants.  GOD clearly chooses from among men to do certain tasks and equips them for their assignments.  Yet HE holds them accountable for how they do it.

Notwithstanding as I prayed this morning concerning ones confused about the impartial, mercy and fairness of GOD a verse came to mind and so I write.  There are those who take a verse of the Bible out of context to state that GOD arbitrarily picks some for salvation and eternal life and tosses others away even though GOD clearly states that HE does not delight in the death of the wicked but that they turn to HIM (Ezekiel 18:23, 32, 33:11, 2 Peter 3:9). 

One such verse some use is “Many are called few are chosen” Matthew 22:14. What does this verse talk about?

The context of that statement is found in Matthew 22:2-14

A wedding in JESUS’ day in Galilee is different than a wedding today in our culture.  In that day and that culture the date or time of a wedding was not known in advance.  It was announced at the last moment and people would drop everything and just come.

JESUS tells of a KING making a wedding for HIS SON and many are invited.  But when the servants told the invited ones to come for the wedding was ready, they all make excuses why they could not come. So, the King sent HIS servants out to the highways and byways to gather people to come to the wedding.  The wedding is full of guests.  But when the KING goes to talk with the guests, HE finds one without a wedding garment on.  When asked why he didn’t put on the wedding garment the man was speechless.  The King was furious and had the man thrown into outer darkness where there was gnashing of teeth (hell).  Then those famous words are stated: “Many are called but few are chosen” (Matthew 22:14).

(Let it be said here that the wedding garment was supplied by the FATHER of the groom in that culture and by GOD in salvation -Revelation 6:11, they are robes washed in the blood of the Lamb Revelation 7:9).

Why was that man cast out? He was cast out because he chose not to put on the offered garment. It was his personal choice that determined the outcome.

How are people called?

“Whereunto HE called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our LORD JESUS CHRIST” (2 Thessalonians 2:14).

What is the gospel?

“For CHRIST sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of CHRIST should be made of none effect. For the preaching of the cross (JESUS the SON of GOD took on a body so HE could come to earth and died on the cross for the sins of mankind, died and was buried then rose from the dead 3 days later so that all who look to HIM might be saved) is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of GOD” (1 Corinthians 1:17-18).

Who gets the light so they may reach out for JESUS?

John 1:9 says JESUS gives everyone born on this earth enough light to seek HIM.  Romans 1:18-21 states GOD has given everyone enough knowledge to know that there is a GOD and to seek HIM.

^“GOD that made the world and all things therein, seeing that HE is LORD of heaven and earth…HE gives to all life, and breath, and all things;  And has made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;  (for the purpose) That they should seek the LORD, if haply (perhaps) they might feel after HIM, and find HIM, though HE be not far from every one of us” (Acts 17:26-27).

We see all are called to come but how are some chosen?

“Elect (or chosen) according to the foreknowledge (to know before) of GOD the FATHER” (1 Peter 1:2).

What did GOD know before the beginning of the world that was the basis of HIS election or choice of some and planning of their lives (Ephesians 2:10)?

Why was the man thrown out of the wedding and into hell? (Matthew 22:11-13).

He was thrown out because of his choice not to put on the provided wedding garment.  Revelation clearly states that garment is one washed in the blood of the lamb. 

Why did JESUS instruct HIS disciples that when HE went back to heaven, they were not to ask JESUS anything but to go straight to GOD the FATHER from whom all blessings flow (James 1:17) and ask in HIS (JESUS) name when they prayed?

“And in that day you shall ask ME nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever you shall ask the FATHER in MY name, HE will give it you.” (John 16:23).  ^“At that day you shall ask in MY name: and I say not that I will pray to the FATHER for you:  For the FATHER HIMSELF loves you, BECAUSE you have loved ME, and have believed that I came out from GOD.” (John 16:26-27).

GOD’s love is based IN JESUS.  GOD so loved the world that HE sent JESUS.  When believing IN JESUS work on our behalf and calling on HIS name we are placed IN JESUS (Ephesians 1:13, 1 Corinthians 12:13) where GOD’s love abides.

How can you know if you are the called who are also the chosen?

“…in CHRIST JESUS, CALLED to be saints, with ALL that in every place CALL upon the name of JESUS CHRIST our LORD, both their’s and our’s” (1 Corinthians 1:2). If you CALL on the name of the LORD you are the CALLED.

”For whosoever shall CALL upon the name of the LORD shall be saved” (Romans 10:13).

“For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON (JESUS), that WHOSOEVER believes in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).  “He that believes on the SON (JESUS) has everlasting life: and he that believes not the SON shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abides (stays) on him” (John 3:36).

The love of GOD is found and kept IN CHRIST JESUS: “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the LOVE of GOD, which is IN CHRIST JESUS our LORD” (Romans 8:38-39).

Are you IN CHRIST JESUS? Have you CALLED on the name of the LORD? The ones who perish, perish because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved” (2 Thessalonians 2:10).

Hugs

Sharon

GOD is at work

With all that is going on around the globe, do you find direction in GOD’s Word?

“Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of GOD spoke as they were moved by (GOD) the HOLY SPIRIT” (2 Peter 1:20-21).

JESUS said that man cannot live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of GOD (Matthew 4:4).  GOD’s Word is alive and powerful!  “For the word of GOD is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).

GOD’s Word judged my thoughts and attitudes of my heart as I read in Ezekiel. It convicted me, showing me that I was wrong and sinned whenever I judge things happening around the globe such as certain governments actions, or natural upheavals. Like Job I spoke and thought about things I didn’t understand, things too wonderful for me to know (Job 42:3).  In other words, I don’t know how GOD is using for good the evil we see. Lacking all the facts, I have no right to make judgments.

“Therefore, judge nothing before the time, until the LORD come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of GOD” (1 Corinthians 4:5).

I know I am not to judge people’s motives, although I can know if something (action or statement) is right or wrong for GOD’s absolute standards have been given to us in HIS word and they never change (Psalm 119:89), because GOD never changes (James 1:17, Malachi 3:6).  Yet I have no reason to fear or right to criticize for according to scripture things are not falling apart they are coming together. GOD foretold in HIS word these things that are happening now not to frighten us but to prepare us and keep us from fear. The Bible tells us that GOD is at work behind the scenes taking men schemes and using them for an end result of justice.

A prime example of this is seen when we look at Joseph, with his coat of many colors, being thrown down into a pit and then sold by his own brothers, then how GOD used Joseph’s troubles for an end result of good. By pondering Joseph’s life we get a glimpse of how GOD works all things together (like stirring up the ingredients of a cake) for an end result of good to those who love HIM (Romans 8:28-29).  

Many years later Joseph himself told his brothers, “You meant it for evil, but GOD meant it for good to bring to pass as it is today, to save many alive (Genesis 50:20).

That being what it is, does not say that meanwhile we are not to pray for those who are suffering.  As we pray for the suffering they are encouraged, strengthened and perhaps will even reach out to the LORD and be saved (Acts 17:26-27, Romans 10:13).

My conviction came against my thoughts/ my judgments concerning world events for I began to see GOD’s hand of judgment on the nations as one country rises against another as I read,  “Therefore, says the LORD GOD, behold I will give the land of Egypt to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon…it shall be wages for his army…I give him the land of Egypt for his labor…because they wrought for ME says the LORD GOD” (Ezekiel 29:19-20). “I will strengthen the arms of the king of Babylon and put MY sword in his hand” (Ezekiel 30:24)  “He (Nebuchadnezzar) and his people with him, the terrible of the nations, shall be brought to destroy the land” (Ezekiel 30:11).

Deuteronomy 28:49 The LORD shall bring a nation against you from afar…

Wow! Again, like Job I must proclaim, “Things to wonderful for me to know!”  Truly, GOD ways are not our ways, nor are HIS thoughts our thoughts, but as high as the heavens are above us so are HIS thoughts and ways above our thoughts and ways (Isaiah 55:8-9).  We can rest assured for HIS ways always work (Isaiah 55:11).

The LORD GOD ALMIGHTY says, “So shall MY word be that goes forth out of MY mouth: it shall not return unto ME void, but it shall ACCOMPLISH ALL that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it” (Isaiah 55:11).

GOD is good and HE is working for an end result of good for those who love HIM. Do you love HIM because HE 1^st loved you and sent HIS only Begotten SON to die for you that you might live forever with HIM? (John 3:16, 36).  Sure hope so!

Hugs

Sharon

Talk it over with GOD

Well over 50 years ago I sat in my 1^st women’s Bible study.  It was my turn to read so I began reading Philippians 4:6-7: “Be careful for (worried about) nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto GOD and the peace of GOD, which passes all understanding, shall keep (guard) your hearts and minds through CHRIST JESUS.”

As I read the verses I thought the words meant the peace of GOD would give me understanding.  You know- like “pass me the butter”.  When I expressed my thought, there were smiles and a few chuckles and I was quickly advised that isn’t what it meant at all. 

Although those awesome words, that have become life verses for me, hold amazing truth, today I’m just using that old story as an illustration to set the stage to show that words don’t always imply what we think they suggest.

Normally we think ungodliness and unrighteousness or wickedness are the same thing.  But In Romans 1:18, “The wrath of GOD is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness.”  Paul clearly distinguishes ungodliness from unrighteousness. 

But what’s the difference?

Jerry Bridges, in his bible study ‘Respectable Sins’, states “Ungodliness describes an attitude toward GOD, while unrighteousness refers to sinful actions in thought, word or deed.

Ungodliness is at best ignoring GOD and what HE says, but often it is flatly denying GOD’s concern or even HIS existence.  Ungodliness can be defined as living everyday life with little or no thought of what GOD wants or thinks or has done.  It’s leaving GOD out of the equation when considering problems or in making decisions. Yet GOD clearly instructs us to trust HIM and to acknowledge (talk to) HIM about everything.

Trusting GOD is an exercise, not a feeling. You learn to trust by choosing to trust. And the more you do it (trust GOD), the more you can do it (trust GOD), for your eyes become able to see GOD at work in everything.  Then GOD is in all your thoughts, and you become increasingly aware of GOD.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge HIM, and HE shall direct your paths.  Be not wise in your own eyes, fear the LORD and depart from evil.” (Proverbs 3:5-7).

“The wicked people are too proud. They do not look for GOD; there is no room for GOD in their thoughts.” (Psalm 10:4 NCV).

In Isaiah 30:1 GOD even calls believers rebellious children when we make decisions without 1^st talking it over with HIM.

When we leave GOD out of our decision making, joys and struggles of our day it is a given that we will worry.  “Am I doing the right thing?” or “Should I have?”

To worry, is to disobey GOD’s direct instructions.  Worry is a direct result of not checking over our concerns with GOD. I began learning that truth and how to trust GOD over half a century ago in that woman’s Bible study when I read,

Philippians 4:6-7: “Be careful for (full of care/worried about) nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto GOD and the peace of GOD, which passes all understanding, shall keep (guard) your hearts and minds through CHRIST JESUS.”

Keep GOD in your thoughts, give HIM thanks even for the little things and talk everything over with HIM and you will be increasingly godly.

“But know that GOD has set apart the godly for HIMSELF..” (Psalm 4:3).

Hugs

Sharon