Spiritual Self-Condemnation
by Henry Morris III, D.Min. Mar. 31, 2009
"Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres of the righteous, And say, If we had been in the days of our fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in the blood of the prophets." (Matthew 23:29-30)
This final "woe" in Matthew 23 is the most awful of all eight of them. Although this builds from verse 25, the conclusion demonstrates the result of such duplicitous behavior--ultimate and eternal separation from the Creator God and His holiness. "Wherefore ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them which killed the prophets. Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers. Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?" (Matthew 23:31-33).
Here is the principle: "For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned" (Matthew 12:37). This is no small issue. Our speech is a direct reflection of what is important to us. So much so that we will be held accountable for "every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment" (Matthew 12:36).
Those passages ought to give all of us pause. Just what is it that consumes our conversation throughout the day? Is it sports, movies, shopping, gossip, slander, or sowing "discord among brethren" (Proverbs 6:19)? Or is it "whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report" (Philippians 4:8).
Our mouths are connected to our hearts (Matthew 15:18). What we talk about most of the time is a definite indicator of where our hearts are. Perhaps we should listen to ourselves. That is a pretty good marker of what we love most: "Stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh" (James 5:8).
Welcome To Life Guide Devotional
Hey, Welcome to the devotional section of our website. God called everyone to have a personal relationship with Him and that involves reading the bible everyday, figuring God’s plan for your lives. But many times, we don’t know what to read. The bible is so big, it’s hard to find something to read and meditate on. That’s where I come in. My goal is to help other teenagers find scriptures they can read and messages they can meditate on. Life Guide Devotional breaks down the message of the bible and relates it to regular circumstances. So please, study the Word of God with me as we grow together.
What Are We Building With Our Lives
1 Corinthians 3:9-17
What are we building with our lives? Everyone’s life is like a building. Our core beliefs make up the foundation and our actions make up the structure. As Christians our foundation is the cross. We stand on the solid rock that is Christ. We are grounded in the truth of Jesus’ death and resurrection and we called on the name of the Lord and now we are saved. Now what? Is our structure made up of popularity and pleasure? Is it made of athletic and academic ability? Or do we build our lives on serving God and living for Him? Popularity and athletic skill can disappear quickly but serving God is a lifestyle that can stand all the challenges of life. Paul said, “If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward.” What are we building with our lives?
What are we building with our lives? Everyone’s life is like a building. Our core beliefs make up the foundation and our actions make up the structure. As Christians our foundation is the cross. We stand on the solid rock that is Christ. We are grounded in the truth of Jesus’ death and resurrection and we called on the name of the Lord and now we are saved. Now what? Is our structure made up of popularity and pleasure? Is it made of athletic and academic ability? Or do we build our lives on serving God and living for Him? Popularity and athletic skill can disappear quickly but serving God is a lifestyle that can stand all the challenges of life. Paul said, “If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward.” What are we building with our lives?
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Friends And Friendliness
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
“For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.” Friends are more than just fun people to hang out with. They strengthen our beliefs and hold us up through hard times. There is a lot to be said for having a good friend. A good friend is more than someone you talk to. They should be able to support you when you need it. And as a friend, you have to be willing to help your friends out when they need it. He who wants a friend must first show himself friendly. Not all our friends will be Christians, but it’s good to have believes close to you to strengthen your faith.
“For if they fall, one will lift up his companion. But woe to him who is alone when he falls, for he has no one to help him up.” Friends are more than just fun people to hang out with. They strengthen our beliefs and hold us up through hard times. There is a lot to be said for having a good friend. A good friend is more than someone you talk to. They should be able to support you when you need it. And as a friend, you have to be willing to help your friends out when they need it. He who wants a friend must first show himself friendly. Not all our friends will be Christians, but it’s good to have believes close to you to strengthen your faith.
Be Strong And Of Good Courage
Joshua 1:1-9
When the bible repeats something, it’s important. “Be strong and of good courage” is stated three times. In a passage talking about the inheritance of the people of Israel, the Lord repeats, “Be strong and of good courage.” That means that even though we have a destiny set designated for us, walking into it will not be easy; we have to remain strong and unafraid. That means that it’s not always going to be a piece of God when we follow God’s Will. But as sure as there are trials, there will also be blessings. God even tells us how to remain strong when He says, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”
When the bible repeats something, it’s important. “Be strong and of good courage” is stated three times. In a passage talking about the inheritance of the people of Israel, the Lord repeats, “Be strong and of good courage.” That means that even though we have a destiny set designated for us, walking into it will not be easy; we have to remain strong and unafraid. That means that it’s not always going to be a piece of God when we follow God’s Will. But as sure as there are trials, there will also be blessings. God even tells us how to remain strong when He says, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.”
Beyond A Reasonable Doubt
Matthew 28:1-8, 16-20
One thing that frustrates me is when I talk to my friends about God and they still refuse to believe. I am an intellectual type and so I lay down the doctrines of faith so logically and eloquently and manage to answer most of their questions. I’m usually so convinced that no intelligent person can refute the validity of Christ and yet they do. People have an amazing ability to doubt. Even some of the people who saw Jesus after His resurrection doubted (Matthew 28:16). The thing is the bible doesn’t tell us Jesus spent hours trying to convince them and we shouldn’t either. Our job is to present the gospel at every opportunity we get and let God do the convincing.
One thing that frustrates me is when I talk to my friends about God and they still refuse to believe. I am an intellectual type and so I lay down the doctrines of faith so logically and eloquently and manage to answer most of their questions. I’m usually so convinced that no intelligent person can refute the validity of Christ and yet they do. People have an amazing ability to doubt. Even some of the people who saw Jesus after His resurrection doubted (Matthew 28:16). The thing is the bible doesn’t tell us Jesus spent hours trying to convince them and we shouldn’t either. Our job is to present the gospel at every opportunity we get and let God do the convincing.
Boast On The Cross
Galatians 6:11-15
The cross. If anything, it is the foundation of our belief. Without the cross we have no salvation, no hope. ‘God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” So often we try to do things on our own and say a quick prayer just in case. Christianity is not about what we do to get to heaven. Back in the day, people were concerned about circumcision and the likes. Now people are concerned about reading only the KJV and other little things. We boast only in the cross because that’s were our salvation comes from
The cross. If anything, it is the foundation of our belief. Without the cross we have no salvation, no hope. ‘God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.” So often we try to do things on our own and say a quick prayer just in case. Christianity is not about what we do to get to heaven. Back in the day, people were concerned about circumcision and the likes. Now people are concerned about reading only the KJV and other little things. We boast only in the cross because that’s were our salvation comes from
The Value of The Word
Psalm 19:7-14
This psalm is from the heart of someone who values God’s Word. It is described as perfect, pure, right, clean, true, more desirable than gold and sweeter than honey. Does this psalm reflect your heart? The Word of God is an active force in our lives constantly seeking to change us and edify us. It saves, gives wisdom, brings joy and enlightens. It’s more than just a book, it’s God’s Will for us. John 1:1-4 tells us that the Word is God. So when God wants to work in us, it is a fair assumption that He will use His Word. There is value to this Word that cannot be measured.
This psalm is from the heart of someone who values God’s Word. It is described as perfect, pure, right, clean, true, more desirable than gold and sweeter than honey. Does this psalm reflect your heart? The Word of God is an active force in our lives constantly seeking to change us and edify us. It saves, gives wisdom, brings joy and enlightens. It’s more than just a book, it’s God’s Will for us. John 1:1-4 tells us that the Word is God. So when God wants to work in us, it is a fair assumption that He will use His Word. There is value to this Word that cannot be measured.
The Weakness of The Law
Romans 8:1-11
We all know what sin is. Almost everyone knows right from wrong, but that knowledge rarely stops anyone from doing wrong. We have knowledge of sin because of the law, but as Paul explains, the law was weak in that it only shows us our faults, but does not help us to overcome sin. Jesus did that. And through the Spirit, we can be free from sin. “For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He conquered sin in the flesh, that the requirement of law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.”
We all know what sin is. Almost everyone knows right from wrong, but that knowledge rarely stops anyone from doing wrong. We have knowledge of sin because of the law, but as Paul explains, the law was weak in that it only shows us our faults, but does not help us to overcome sin. Jesus did that. And through the Spirit, we can be free from sin. “For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh, God did by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, on account of sin: He conquered sin in the flesh, that the requirement of law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.”
Why We Forgive
Genesis 45:1-15
Joseph had too many reasons to be angry with his brothers. Because of them he was a slave, accused and thrown in jail and missed his mother’s death. Even though he became powerful in Egypt, he had to give up so much because of his brother. Yet Joseph forgave them. No matter what others do to you, the bible commands us to forgive. After all, what they did to you might put you in place to fulfill your destiny, just like Joseph. Unforgiveness holds you in bondage to that person where all your energy is directed at making them miserable. It puts you in a mindset that you’re not happy until the other person is unhappy. Unforgiveness hurts you more than the other person; Forgiveness frees you. Joseph forgave, Jesus forgave, let us forgive.
Joseph had too many reasons to be angry with his brothers. Because of them he was a slave, accused and thrown in jail and missed his mother’s death. Even though he became powerful in Egypt, he had to give up so much because of his brother. Yet Joseph forgave them. No matter what others do to you, the bible commands us to forgive. After all, what they did to you might put you in place to fulfill your destiny, just like Joseph. Unforgiveness holds you in bondage to that person where all your energy is directed at making them miserable. It puts you in a mindset that you’re not happy until the other person is unhappy. Unforgiveness hurts you more than the other person; Forgiveness frees you. Joseph forgave, Jesus forgave, let us forgive.
Not Just For Israel
Hosea 1:10-2:1
God has so many promises for us. He promised the people of Israel through Hosea to multiply them, to be their God and to show mercy. And the promises are not just for Israelites. Paul teaches that it does not matter whether Jew or gentile, slave or free we are all called by the same God to the same promises. God promises never to leave us, to give us life more abundantly, to equip us for every good work, to supply all our needs and the list goes on. The bible is a love letter to you and me and once we begin to hold on to the promises in the Word, there will be no doubt through our testimony that we serve a good God. Amen
God has so many promises for us. He promised the people of Israel through Hosea to multiply them, to be their God and to show mercy. And the promises are not just for Israelites. Paul teaches that it does not matter whether Jew or gentile, slave or free we are all called by the same God to the same promises. God promises never to leave us, to give us life more abundantly, to equip us for every good work, to supply all our needs and the list goes on. The bible is a love letter to you and me and once we begin to hold on to the promises in the Word, there will be no doubt through our testimony that we serve a good God. Amen
Who Are You Counting On?
Judges 7:1-8
Why were only three hundred men kept and others sent home? What is it that made the 9700 men unsuitable for service in Gideon’s army? The answer is readiness. The men who knelt down let down their guard and were susceptible to an ambush. From thirty-two thousand men from the beginning of the chapter to three hundred- God weeded out all those unready for service. Who are you counting on? If Gideon was relying on his army, he would have been unpleasantly surprised. Twenty-two thousand were afraid and only three hundred could be counted on to remain ready. We have friends and family and a lot of people we feel we can always count on. Boyfriends and girlfriends promise to always be there and friends claim to have your back, but who can you always count on? Friends try but humans can fail- God cannot.
Why were only three hundred men kept and others sent home? What is it that made the 9700 men unsuitable for service in Gideon’s army? The answer is readiness. The men who knelt down let down their guard and were susceptible to an ambush. From thirty-two thousand men from the beginning of the chapter to three hundred- God weeded out all those unready for service. Who are you counting on? If Gideon was relying on his army, he would have been unpleasantly surprised. Twenty-two thousand were afraid and only three hundred could be counted on to remain ready. We have friends and family and a lot of people we feel we can always count on. Boyfriends and girlfriends promise to always be there and friends claim to have your back, but who can you always count on? Friends try but humans can fail- God cannot.
Out of The Heart
Mark 7:9-23
What really matters is what’s on the inside; serving God comes from the heart. That’s because in anything we do, our motive comes from our heart. Our heart actually directs our minds. Desire starts in the heart and the mind makes a way. That’s why Jesus said that out of the heart is what defiles a man. That’s true when evil is in our hearts. When we have good in our heart, it edifies us. That’s why we need to read our bibles and pray. These build good in our heart so that our actions can be pure.
What really matters is what’s on the inside; serving God comes from the heart. That’s because in anything we do, our motive comes from our heart. Our heart actually directs our minds. Desire starts in the heart and the mind makes a way. That’s why Jesus said that out of the heart is what defiles a man. That’s true when evil is in our hearts. When we have good in our heart, it edifies us. That’s why we need to read our bibles and pray. These build good in our heart so that our actions can be pure.
What Is Impossible With God
Jeremiah 1:4-10
What is impossible with God? Nothing. God was able to take a young man, whose words would ordinarily carry no significance in his society, and make him into a prophet. Just like Jeremiah, I believe God is saying to everyone of us “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you.” Not everyone is going to be a prophet (Ephesians 4:11) but in God’s hands we can be anything. We are God’s Masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10). Just as God anointed Jeremiah’s mouth He is well able to equip us for our destiny. We know we can trust Him because time and time again He proves that nothing is truly impossible with God.
What is impossible with God? Nothing. God was able to take a young man, whose words would ordinarily carry no significance in his society, and make him into a prophet. Just like Jeremiah, I believe God is saying to everyone of us “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you; before you were born I sanctified you.” Not everyone is going to be a prophet (Ephesians 4:11) but in God’s hands we can be anything. We are God’s Masterpiece (Ephesians 2:10). Just as God anointed Jeremiah’s mouth He is well able to equip us for our destiny. We know we can trust Him because time and time again He proves that nothing is truly impossible with God.
Put On...
Colossians 3:12-17
“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put n tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering….But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.” What does it mean to put on these traits? When we put on clothes, they are visible on us. We don’t have to tell anyone who sees us what we’re wearing: they can see it. Likewise people should be able to see these characteristics in us. A common joke says, “If you have to tell someone you’re funny, chances are you’re not.” The same applies to kindness, humility, etc. These traits will be seen on us when the Word of God dwells richly in us and the peace of God rules in our hearts.
“Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put n tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering….But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.” What does it mean to put on these traits? When we put on clothes, they are visible on us. We don’t have to tell anyone who sees us what we’re wearing: they can see it. Likewise people should be able to see these characteristics in us. A common joke says, “If you have to tell someone you’re funny, chances are you’re not.” The same applies to kindness, humility, etc. These traits will be seen on us when the Word of God dwells richly in us and the peace of God rules in our hearts.
Complete In The Word
2 Timothy 3:10-17
Just like Timothy, I have a few mentors in my life; I have people, men of God that I look up to. I have seen them in the good times and in the tough times and I have seen what they turn to for strength: The Word and Prayer. And because I see the success they have using God’s Word, My faith in the Word is grounded. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” The Word trains and prepares us for anything that life throws at us. Just as Paul urged Timothy, we must continue in the Word of God that we have learned and continue to learn. Amen
Just like Timothy, I have a few mentors in my life; I have people, men of God that I look up to. I have seen them in the good times and in the tough times and I have seen what they turn to for strength: The Word and Prayer. And because I see the success they have using God’s Word, My faith in the Word is grounded. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.” The Word trains and prepares us for anything that life throws at us. Just as Paul urged Timothy, we must continue in the Word of God that we have learned and continue to learn. Amen
Wise Guy Versus Wise God
James 3:13-18
What does God’s wisdom look like? Well… it is described as “wisdom from above” and “is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy” (Vs. 16). Sound familiar? Probably not. The wisdom we are used to as inhibiters of earth is bitter, envious and self-seeking. The edict of the day is, “Look out for number one.” God’s wisdom however is shown by works done in the meekness of wisdom (Vs. 13). Meekness is knowing that you have the ability to inflict pain but deciding not to. It’s completely different from looking out for number one and it doesn’t always make sense. But as people who claim that we are in this world but not of this world, it’s how we roll.
What does God’s wisdom look like? Well… it is described as “wisdom from above” and “is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy” (Vs. 16). Sound familiar? Probably not. The wisdom we are used to as inhibiters of earth is bitter, envious and self-seeking. The edict of the day is, “Look out for number one.” God’s wisdom however is shown by works done in the meekness of wisdom (Vs. 13). Meekness is knowing that you have the ability to inflict pain but deciding not to. It’s completely different from looking out for number one and it doesn’t always make sense. But as people who claim that we are in this world but not of this world, it’s how we roll.
Relation With Our Father
Luke 15:11-24
We all know the story of the prodigal son. He tried to run away from his father’s authority and ended up miserable. We can look at this parable and tell ourselves that if we had the opportunity we would be smarter than this prodigal son and take good care of our finances but the truth is there is no joy outside the Father. I can say this confidently because I have tried doing life my own way and it doesn’t work too well. And for many teenagers it’s hard to stick with God because we’ve never really had times when we had to trust Him and so He doesn’t seem real to us. But when we go out into the real world there is a being out there looking to steal, to kill and to destroy. Will we remain with our Father in Heaven or will we have to come crawling back to Him?
We all know the story of the prodigal son. He tried to run away from his father’s authority and ended up miserable. We can look at this parable and tell ourselves that if we had the opportunity we would be smarter than this prodigal son and take good care of our finances but the truth is there is no joy outside the Father. I can say this confidently because I have tried doing life my own way and it doesn’t work too well. And for many teenagers it’s hard to stick with God because we’ve never really had times when we had to trust Him and so He doesn’t seem real to us. But when we go out into the real world there is a being out there looking to steal, to kill and to destroy. Will we remain with our Father in Heaven or will we have to come crawling back to Him?
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Learning To Be Content
Philippians 4:10-19
We are all at different levels in life: No two people are the same. This is also true of our faith walks. Some people can worship easily and some can preach the Word beautifully and some can give easily. We cannot compare ourselves to others. Paul states, “For I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” Though he speaks specifically of material wealth, it is a concept that can be applied to all of life. Content doesn’t mean we have to stay in that state, but we have to learn to wait for God to grow us. Most of us will not lead a thousand people to God on our first day, but we can thank God for the one person in whom we plant seeds. We cannot compare our walk with others’.
We are all at different levels in life: No two people are the same. This is also true of our faith walks. Some people can worship easily and some can preach the Word beautifully and some can give easily. We cannot compare ourselves to others. Paul states, “For I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content.” Though he speaks specifically of material wealth, it is a concept that can be applied to all of life. Content doesn’t mean we have to stay in that state, but we have to learn to wait for God to grow us. Most of us will not lead a thousand people to God on our first day, but we can thank God for the one person in whom we plant seeds. We cannot compare our walk with others’.
Can The True Believer Stand?
Psalm 27:1-14
We all have a testimony. Every one of us got converted to Christ somehow. And we know of the promises of God. How do we react when trials come? Do we believe in God to save us? David said, “I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” Do we believe? God is not just waiting for us to die to bless us. Do we believe? If so then when trials come we must learn to say, as David did, “Wait on the Lord. Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart.” Can the true believers rise up?
We all have a testimony. Every one of us got converted to Christ somehow. And we know of the promises of God. How do we react when trials come? Do we believe in God to save us? David said, “I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” Do we believe? God is not just waiting for us to die to bless us. Do we believe? If so then when trials come we must learn to say, as David did, “Wait on the Lord. Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart.” Can the true believers rise up?
Walking In The Spirit
Galatians 5:16-22
Most of us know this scripture. Verses 22 and 23 are the first I remember memorizing: my mom taught it t me as a song I still remember today. Notice the contrast between the works (plural) of the flesh and the Fruit (singular) of the Spirit. The Spirit gives all these fruit in a complete package called salvation. And we cannot manifest the Fruit of the Spirit and the works of the flesh together because they are opposites. How can we love and envy at the same time, or have outbursts of wrath and self-control? The message we have to take away is, “And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. As it says in Matthew 6:24, no one can serve two masters.
Most of us know this scripture. Verses 22 and 23 are the first I remember memorizing: my mom taught it t me as a song I still remember today. Notice the contrast between the works (plural) of the flesh and the Fruit (singular) of the Spirit. The Spirit gives all these fruit in a complete package called salvation. And we cannot manifest the Fruit of the Spirit and the works of the flesh together because they are opposites. How can we love and envy at the same time, or have outbursts of wrath and self-control? The message we have to take away is, “And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. As it says in Matthew 6:24, no one can serve two masters.
Annointed To...
Isaiah 6:1-11
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to…” Look at the things we have to offer the world. We have in us the ability to remove oppression, to comfort, to exchange their pain for joy. Through God’s Spirit we have the ability to build up people so that they can be strong. We can enable people to rebuild old ruins and raise up former desolations. The Lord will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before the nations. That is one of the signs of the end-times (Acts 2:17-21).
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me to…” Look at the things we have to offer the world. We have in us the ability to remove oppression, to comfort, to exchange their pain for joy. Through God’s Spirit we have the ability to build up people so that they can be strong. We can enable people to rebuild old ruins and raise up former desolations. The Lord will cause righteousness and praise to spring forth before the nations. That is one of the signs of the end-times (Acts 2:17-21).
Spirit of Power, Love and A Sound Mind
2 Timothy 1:6-12
“Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord.” One reason we teens don’t like to share the Good News is that it’s not cool. The popular opinion is that the Bible is a book of rules and stories. And if we were to tell people abut loving God and serving God we look weird. But God saved us and called us with a holy calling according to His own purpose. We have to share the Good News. We have the Holy Spirit working in us to guide us and empower us. “God has not given us the Spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
“Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony of our Lord.” One reason we teens don’t like to share the Good News is that it’s not cool. The popular opinion is that the Bible is a book of rules and stories. And if we were to tell people abut loving God and serving God we look weird. But God saved us and called us with a holy calling according to His own purpose. We have to share the Good News. We have the Holy Spirit working in us to guide us and empower us. “God has not given us the Spirit of fear but of power and of love and of a sound mind.
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After the Sin
Isaiah 59:1-7, 16-20
God is never unable to save us. But when our lives are full of sin, He will not come near us. Even Jesus on the cross felt God’s absence after He took on the sin of the world. God is Holy and cannot be around sin. When we sin we leave His protection and we have no peace. But there is good news. “Therefore His own arm brought salvation for Him; and His own righteousness, it sustained Him.” God has made as way out of sin. He is the redeemer of those who turn back to Him. When we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9)
God is never unable to save us. But when our lives are full of sin, He will not come near us. Even Jesus on the cross felt God’s absence after He took on the sin of the world. God is Holy and cannot be around sin. When we sin we leave His protection and we have no peace. But there is good news. “Therefore His own arm brought salvation for Him; and His own righteousness, it sustained Him.” God has made as way out of sin. He is the redeemer of those who turn back to Him. When we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9)
Flee Unrighteousness
1 Timothy 6:11-16
“But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.” The word “flee” means to run away from something. What are we supposed to flee from? Well…if we are chasing righteousness, it’s only fair to say that whatever we are to flee from is the opposite of righteousness, or unrighteousness. Verses 9 and 10 talks about lust for wealth that leads people away from God. Lust for life leads people is unrighteousness. And to resist, lusting after material things, there is a fight. Paul however warns all of us to “keep this commandment without spot, blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ’s appearing.”
“But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.” The word “flee” means to run away from something. What are we supposed to flee from? Well…if we are chasing righteousness, it’s only fair to say that whatever we are to flee from is the opposite of righteousness, or unrighteousness. Verses 9 and 10 talks about lust for wealth that leads people away from God. Lust for life leads people is unrighteousness. And to resist, lusting after material things, there is a fight. Paul however warns all of us to “keep this commandment without spot, blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ’s appearing.”
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1 timothy,
commandments,
lust,
righteousness
Jesus Intercedes
Hebrews 9:23-28
We think of Jesus and immediately His death and resurrection come to mind. But there is more to what Jesus does for us. He intercedes for us before God every moment. Mark 16:19 tells us He is seated at the right hand f God. Hebrews 9:24 says, “He entered heaven itself, now to appear for us in God’s presence.” God is holy and cannot be around sin. Every time we mess up, Jesus is up there reminding God that we are sanctified by his sacrifice. I don’t know what He is saying but I gotta figure its working because we still experience God’s presence here on earth.
We think of Jesus and immediately His death and resurrection come to mind. But there is more to what Jesus does for us. He intercedes for us before God every moment. Mark 16:19 tells us He is seated at the right hand f God. Hebrews 9:24 says, “He entered heaven itself, now to appear for us in God’s presence.” God is holy and cannot be around sin. Every time we mess up, Jesus is up there reminding God that we are sanctified by his sacrifice. I don’t know what He is saying but I gotta figure its working because we still experience God’s presence here on earth.
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