POINTS OF GRACE

FREE FROM THE LAW, O HAPPY CONDITION

2011-07-26T12:41:00.000-07:00

Free from the law, O happy condition,
Jesus hath bled, and there is remission;
Cursed by the law and bruised by the fall,
Grace hath redeemed us once for all.

Now we are free, there's no condemnation,
Jesus provides a perfect salvation;
"Come unto Me," O hear His sweet call,
Come, and He saves us once for all.

"Children of God," O glorious calling,
Surely His grace will keep us from falling;
Passing from death to life at His call,
Blessed salvation once for all.

Once for all, O sinner, receive it,
Once for all, O friend, now believe it;
Cling to the cross, the burden will fall,
Christ hath redeemed us once for all.

Philip P. Bliss.

QUOTEABLE QUOTES

2011-03-28T20:02:00.000-07:00

When there is a feast of words there is often a famine of wisdom. [Catherine of Siena] God never meant that man should scale the heavens by strides of human wisdom. [William Cowper] The next best thing to being wise oneself is to live in a circle of those who are. [C.S. Lewis] To have a low opinion of our own merits and to think highly of others is an evidence of wisdom. [Thomas a Kempis] There is a difference between wisdom and knowledge. Knowledge is information; it has to do with intellect. Wisdom has more to do with heart and with attitude. The best definition for wisdom is viewing life from God's viewpoint. The Christian life is this: Christ living His life in and through us by the power of the Holy Spirit of the living God. Knowing the truth about God's acceptance and recognizing that our security is in Him alone will lead to relationships characterized by His love. Our convictions, not our environment, determine our behavior. Mankind's love, at its best, comes nowhere near the perfection of God's; however, the indwelling Holy Spirit expresses divine love through yielded believers. Paradise is beyond our imagination, but we do know that the believer's life goes on in heaven. As citizens of that realm, we will take up the work of serving and praising God. Moreover, we will enjoy unlimited energy and perfect harmony between the Lord, ourselves, and other saints. Loneliness can cripple a person emotionally and spiritually. Human beings are not designed to walk through this world alone. We are made for relationship, which God gladly supplies. Lest we forget that the Lord is near, He gave the Bible this consistent theme: I love you and I am with you always. POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

QUOTABLE QUOTES

2011-02-26T18:34:00.000-08:00

In ordinary life we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give, and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich. [Dietrich Bonhoeffer]

It is the highest and holiest of the paradoxes that the man who really knows he cannot pay his debt will be forever paying it. [G.K. Chesterton]

Thou hast given so much to me, give one more thing---a grateful heart. [George Herbert]

Count your blessings; Name them one by one. Count your blessings; See what God hath done. [Johnson Oatman, Jr.]

You say, if I had a little more, I should be very satisfied. You make a mistake. If you are not content with what you have, you would not be satisfied if it were doubled. [Charles Haddon Spurgeon]

Saying thank you to God helps us recall how loving, caring, and faithful He is. As a result, our intimacy with Him deepens. And often, when others hear us express gratitude to Him, they are reminded that the Lord is their source for blessing as well. [Charles F. Stanley]

From David learn to give thanks for everything, every furrow in the Book of Psalms is sown with the seeds of thanksgiving. [Jeremy Taylor]

The Devil is pleased when people make themselves slaves to a desire that, in the proper context, the Lord intended to be enjoyed freely.

We are called to act out our faith every day. God works through us to reach those who may never otherwise open the Bible or enter a church. What's more, He borrows our voice to tell His story and uses our life to demonstrate His grace and glory. Good deeds are a believer's labor of love.

Believer's should not react to trails as the world does. We are to live by faith. When circumstances overwhelm you, shift your focus to Jesus. Read the Scriptures to find encouragement, and be reminded of what is yours in Christ. [Eph. 1: 3-8]

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

QUOTABLE QUOTES

2011-01-10T11:29:00.000-08:00

When a train goes through a tunnel and it gets dark, you don't throw away the ticket and jump off. You sit still and trust the engineer. [Corrie Ten Boom]

The mystery of Christ, that He sunk Himself into our flesh, is beyond all human understanding. [Martin Luther]

One great power of sin is that it blinds men so that they do not recognize its true character. [Andrew Murray]

Christians believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God because He said so. [C.S. Lewis]

Jesus' position as the one mediator excludes all others who claim to be a path to God.

Will power does not change men. Time does not change men. Christ does. [Henry Drummond]

A great many people are trying to make peace, but that has already been done. God has not left it for us to do; all we have to do is enter into it. [Dwight L. Moody]

But I quit (depart from) life as I would an inn, not as I would a home. [Cicero]

Church attendance is as vital to a disciple as a transfusion of rich, healthy blood to a sick man. [D.L. Moody]

Perhaps if there were more of that intense distress for souls that leads to tears, we should more frequently see the results we desire. [Hudson Taylor]

True wealth isn't measured by your bank account or your wisdom. Believers, as joint heirs with Christ [Romans 8:17] have access to God's riches, which include unspeakable joy, unconditional love, and peace beyond understanding. Invest in your spiritual life and enjoy these blessings of grace.

Simply hearing and believing doesn't make a concept yours. A principle is yours when you explore the truth, discover its place in your life, and apply the principle so that God can make it work.

To become effective servants of God, we must let go of our self-righteousness that says, "I know what is right," our self-will that claims, "I know what is best for me," and our self-centeredness that declares, "what I want is most important."

Believers are here to point others to the Lord whom they serve. We are a reflection of His light and glory. It is He who not only gives opportunity to shine but also equips us with the strength and gifts to work for the kingdom. As bright as we may be, we are nothing apart from the Lord.

Jesus Christ is not valued at all until He is valued above all. [Augustine]

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QUOTABLE QUOTES

2010-12-05T13:12:00.000-08:00

Each believer decides who rules his life, by either actively surrendering to Christ or deliberately going his own way. Even those who try to avoid the issue by making no choice at all unknowingly opt for self-rule. Integrity and godly character await those who choose the Lord over self. Note! the degree of surrender determines the level of transformation.

God's Word is the training manual that gives instruction for discerning deception, resisting temptation, standing firm in faith, and walking in the fullness of the Spirit.

In prayer we choose to either magnify the Lord or our difficulty. Are you concentrating on the faithfulness of God or your problems and negative feelings? Lets keep our eyes on Him and wait with confidence until we see the great things He will do for us.

The main hinge on which faith turns is this: we must not imagine that the Lord's promises are true objectively but not in our experience. We must make them ours by embracing them in our hearts. [John Calvin]

God's promises are a foundation of our faith, and we have them as such, and also of our hope. On these we are to build all our expectations from God; and in all temptations and trials we have them to rest our souls upon. [Matthew Henry]

God has made so many promises---about loving us unconditionally, about caring for us, about providing all of our needs according to His riches in glory. Do you think God ever forgot even one of His promises? No! What He promises, He will provide because all of heaven's power is behind Him. [Charles F. Stanley]

Every promise God has ever made finds its fulfillment in Jesus. [Joni Eareckson Tada]

Abraham never wavered in believing God's promise.......He was fully convinced that God is able to do whatever He promises. And because of Abraham's faith, God counted him as righteous. [Romans 4:20-22] (NLT)

There is a living God; He has spoken in the Bible. He means what He says and will do all He has promised. [Hudson Taylor]

Let God's promises shine on your problems. [Corrie Ten Boom]

How to trap an atheist: Serve him a fine meal, then ask him if he believes there is a cook.

God is not silent, it is the nature of God to speak. The second person of the Holy Trinity is called The Word. [A.W. Tozer]

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APPLYING THE WORD

2010-11-11T18:13:00.000-08:00

When I saw that they were not following the truth of the Good News, I said to Peter in front of all the others, "Since you, a Jew by birth, have discarded the Jewish laws and are living like a Gentile, why are you trying to make these Gentiles obey the Jewish laws you abandoned?" [Galatians 2:14]

Compromise can weaken our respect for truth. The Judaizers accused Paul of watering down the gospel to make it easier for Gentiles to accept, while Paul accused the Judaizers of nullifying the truth of the gospel by adding conditions to it. The basis of salvation was the issue. Is salvation through Christ alone, or does it come through Christ and obedience to the law? The argument came to a climax when Peter, Paul, the Judaizers and some Gentile Christians all gathered together in Antioch to share a meal. Peter thought that by staying away from the Gentiles, he was promoting harmony. He did not want to offend James and the Jewish Christians. James had a very prominent position and presided over the council [Acts 15]. But Paul charged that Peter's action violated the gospel. By joining the Judaizers, Peter was supporting their clam that Christ was not sufficient for salvation. Compromise is an important element in getting along with others, but we should never compromise the truth of God's Word. If we feel we have to change our Christian beliefs to mach those of our companions, we are on dangerous ground.

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

QUOTABLE QUOTES

2010-11-07T14:15:00.000-08:00

Barriers to unshakable faith include pride [I won't admit I need God's help], arrogance [I know a better way--I don't have to ask God], and self-sufficiency [I can do it myself without His help]. Which of these is keeping you from becoming a person of strong faith? Confess it and turn toward the Lord.

A believer's identity is in his relationship with Christ, not in what he achieves for the Kingdom.

I have realized that Jesus called me not to do ministry, but to allow Him to work in me and accomplish His ministry through me. It is not my external actions that bring God glory, it is my willingness to submit to Him.

The Devil often transforms himself into an angel to tempt men, some for their instruction, some for their ruin. [Augustine of Hippo]

The deceit, the lie of the Devil consist of this, that he wishes to make man believe that he can live without God's Word. [Dietrich Bonhoeffer]

The existence of the Devil is so clearly taught in the Bible that to doubt it is to doubt the Bible itself. [Archibald G. Brown]

The Devil can counterfeit all the saving operations and graces of the Spirit of God. [Jonathan Edwards]

The Enemy will not see you vanish into God's company without an effort to reclaim you. [C.S. Lewis]

For where God built a church, there the Devil would also build a chapel. [Martin Luther]

That there is a Devil is a thing doubted by none but such as are under the influences of the Devil. [Cotton Mather]

The more God uses us, the more Satan will attempt to harass us. [Charles F. Stanley]

The Devil is a better theologian than any of us and is a devil still. [A. W. Tozer]

The Devil does not tempt unbelievers and sinners who are already his own. [Thomas Kempis]

Abilities and achievements do not impress the Lord. Instead, He is looking for humble, willing followers through whom to reveal His glory.

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

APPLYING THE WORD

2010-10-09T17:52:00.000-07:00

Don't team up with those who are unbelievers. How can goodness be a partner with wickedness? How can light live with darkness? [2 Corinthians 6:14]

Compromise can weaken and destroy faith. Paul urges believers not to form binding relationships with nonbelievers because this might weaken their commitment to Christ. Earlier, Paul had explained that this did not mean isolating oneself from nonbelievers (see 1 Corinthians 5:9-10). Paul even tells Christians to stay with non- believing spouses (1 Corinthians 7:12-13). He wants believers to be active in their witness for Christ, but they should not lock themselves into personal or business relationships that could cause them to compromise their faith. Believers should avoid situations that could force them to divide their loyalties.

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QUOTABLE QUOTES

2010-10-08T14:41:00.000-07:00

God's blessing comes to our lives because of His grace, not because of our worthiness.

It is a contradiction to be a true Christian and not humble. [Richard Baxter]

God wants us to sign a blank contract and give it to Him to fill in.

The right kind of heart is a kind heart like God's.

People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care.

The pleasure of sin is soon gone, but the sting remains. [Thomas Watson]

Grace is the free, undeserved goodness and favor of God to mankind. [Matthew Henry]

When sin is your burden, Christ will be your delight. [Thomas Watson]

The Christian faith is not for lone rangers.

The Bible knows nothing of solitary religion. [John Wesley]

Returning to our daily tasks and routine at the appropriate time can help us cope with tragedy.

Suffering is a necessary prelude to glorification.

Your significance and security is found in Christ alone. What we view as our source will determine our course.

Opportunity only knocks once, temptation leans on the doorbell.

No one is ever free in an absolute sense, we are free to choose what will control us, but we are not free to avoid this choice.

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

APPLYING THE WORD

2010-09-12T16:45:00.000-07:00

Believers should not react to trials as the world does. We are to live by faith---[Being sure of what we hope for--Hebrews 11:1]. When circumstances overwhelm you, shift your focus to the Lord. Read the Scriptures to find encouragement, and be reminded of what is yours in Christ---[Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavens, in Christ; for He chose us in Him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love He predestined us to be adopted through Jesus Christ for Himself, according to His favor and will, to the praise of His glorious grace that He favored us with in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace that He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. [Ephesians 1:3-8]

Remember; when we have gone into the furnace of affliction, His hand is on the thermostat and His eye is on the clock.

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

QUOTABLE QUOTES

2010-09-05T17:10:00.000-07:00

I will charge my soul to believe and wait on Him, and will follow His providence, and not go before it, nor stay behind it. [Samuel Rutherford]

A man with God is always in the majority. [John Knox]

We must not treat God's Word like a buffet line in a restaurant, where we pick and choose what we like.

Seeking God's direction should be our first response to any given situation.

People who know the Word of God generally have an easier time discerning the will of God.

God calls us to obey Him in everything, regardless of the potential consequences.

Sometimes God reveals His grace by delivering us from the challenge or obstacle. At other times, God provides the grace to endure and grow through the hardships.

A true love of God must begin with a delight in His holiness. [Jonathan Edwards]

If we are not careful, we can become caught up in the enthusiasm of worship and actually forget who we are worshiping---our Holy God. Such carelessness can occur in any worship style or tradition.

A right relationship with God begins by recognizing God's holiness.

We honor God when we do His work His way.

To worship is to quicken the conscience by the holiness of God, to feed the mind with the truth of God, to purge the imagination by the beauty of God, to open the heart to the love of God, to devote the will to the purpose of God. [William Temple]

When you have Him you have all, but you have also lost all when you lose Him. Stay with Christ although your eyes do not see Him and your reason does not grasp Him. [Martin Luther]

The fruit of the Spirit does not pop out of believers through effort; Christians bear fruit through surrender. We take root in the Lord by meditating on His Word, praying, and serving. We reserve nothing for ourselves to control but fully rely upon Him. That's not passive living; it's an abiding life.

It's really hard to be offended at self-righteousness without being self-righteous.

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APPLYING THE WORD

2010-08-21T13:14:00.000-07:00

Bring forth fruit that is consistent with repentance. [let your lives prove your change of heart....Matthew 3:8]

Do you ever struggle with wondering if you do enough to please God? When Jesus was baptized, He had not yet publicly performed any miracles, or done any sort of ministry. Yet God called Him "My Son, My beloved Son, in Whom I delight!" [Matthew 3:17]. Likewise, God is delighted with you, if you are His child. You being His child pleases Him far more than anything you can do. Ask Him to show you more and more how delighted He is in you.

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

QUOTABLE QUOTES

2010-08-06T12:43:00.000-07:00

We can encourage one another with our confidence that God is sufficient and He will be there for us, no matter what. Even in the midst of heartbreak, our deep, abiding pleasure in the Lord can strengthen both ourselves and others.

God calls us to live in His present grace, not to dwell on the if only and the what ifs of life.

Life brings trouble to us from many sources. But the common thread in all trials is the Lord's desire and ability to use those trails for our good and His glory. Through these experiences, we can let go of ungodly traits and experience sweet communion as we walk in intimacy with Him.

God has promised forgiveness to your repentance, but He has not promised tomorrow to your procrastination. [Augustine]

Many who plan to seek God at the eleventh hour die at 10:30.

You cannot repent too soon, because you do not know how soon it may be too late. [Thomas Fuller]

Religious activities can never replace a relationship with God.

God always gives His best to those who leave the choice with Him. [Jim Elliot]

We must learn to trust God's promises in His Word even when our circumstances suggest otherwise.

For the grace of God has appeared, with salvation for all people, instructing us to deny godlessness and worldly lust and to live in a sensible, righteous, and godly way in the present age. [Titus 2:11-12]

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A NATION ON ITS WAY DOWN

2010-07-14T17:36:00.000-07:00

Don't be misled. Remember that you can't ignore God and get away with it. You will always reap what you sow! [Galatians 6:7 (NLT)].

The principle of sowing and reaping applies not only to individuals but also to nations as well. A nation that ignores or rejects God and His Word will suffer the consequences of that choice. When a nation begins ignoring biblical commands and principles, truth becomes relative as false philosophies and "liberated thinking" take root. Leaders tend to consider themselves superior and intellectual, but in reality, if they are separated from God, their thinking is foolish and their understanding darkened [Eph. 4:17-18].

A society always behaves according to its belief system, so the inevitable results of skewed thinking is sin. Once sin becomes acceptable in the eyes of the people, sensuality and self-gratification dominate as restraint is lifted. The baser nature of man emerges in the form of immorality, greed, and violence. Injustice reaches its peak when laws permit the killing of the most helpless and innocent of all its citizens, unborn children. Even if the majority of the citizens disapprove of the injustice and immorality, unless they act, that nation will continue its downward spiral into depravity.

As Christians, our ultimate hope, of course, is in the return of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who will rule and reign on earth with righteousness and justice. But until then the church must awaken to its responsibility to be salt and light in this dark and dieing world. Each generation is called to be alert and active during its appointed time on this earth.

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

QUOTABLE QUOTES

2010-07-05T18:06:00.000-07:00

Those who teach by their doctrine must teach by their life, or else they pull down with one hand what they build up with the other. [Matthew Henry]

Some turn to God only when they experience defeat, but in reality, we experience defeat whenever we don't place our trust in God.

True prayer comes from an attitude of dependence on the Lord. Whether celebrating His provision, confessing sin, or expressing need.

Believers must consider the whole counsel of God's Word to understand His promises.

If you want to know what God is doing in your life, obey Him. Often, you won't understand the intricacies of the plan, but you can trust the goodness of His heart. Rest assured that all He does is purposeful and for your benefit. So step out in faith, and you will see His faithfulness.

Through His sacrifice, we are redeemed, forgiven, justified, and reconciled to God. That is, Christ's blood has brought us from death to life, and has let us enter into an eternal relationship with the Father.

Our lives glorify God when we give Him His rightful place on the throne of our lives.

The stiff and wooden quality about our religious lives is a result of our lack of holy desire. Complacency is a deadly foe of all spiritual growth. Acute desire must be present or there will be no manifestation of Christ to His people. [A. W. Tozer]

Revival is a renewed conviction of sin and repentance, followed by an intense desire to live in obedience to God. It is giving up one's will to God in deep humility. [Charles Finney]

Look, now is the acceptable time; look, now is the day of salvation. [2 Corinthians 6:2]

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

GOD'S SAVING GRACE

2010-06-05T13:22:00.000-07:00

God said of king David, "He is a man after my own heart" [Acts 13:22]. Yet we know that David was a man of war. He lied, had his good friend murdered, and on at least one occasion, committed adultery. How could God love such a man? Better yet, how could God allow this man to rule over the nation of Israel as king? The answer to those questions, can be wrapped up in one word: grace---not human compassion, but God's divine mercy, which is something you cannot earn on personal merit. When we come face to face with the reality of the cross, where God's love for mankind was displayed. In that Jesus died for all our sins, and in doing so, erased our guilt and shame. We begin then and only then to understand the radical nature of God's grace.

Let me be clear; God's grace does not give us a license to sin, our transgressions will always produce consequences. But no sin is so great that it can keep you from experiencing the Father's mercy, if you repent and ask for forgiveness. God could have turned away from you and me, but He chose instead to reach out in tender care. His love is stronger than any offense. No sinner is so far removed from our heavenly Father that he cannot come home to God. If there is anything standing between you and the Lord, bring it to the altar. Jesus said, "The one who comes to Me I will certainly not cast out" [John 6:37]. For all eternity, God's love and passion have been fixed on you. No matter who you are or where you have been, His love reaches out to you.

The Bible says; "That if you confess with your mouth, Jesus is LORD, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved" [Romans 10:9]. Have you done this? If not I pray that today you will truly believe and confess Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Note! It is only through Jesus that you can be saved. Jesus said: "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me" [John 14:6]. God bless.

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LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE

2010-05-11T18:03:00.000-07:00

You are the light of the world--- like a city on a mountain, glowing in the night for all to see. Don't hide your light under a basket! Instead put it on a stand and let it shine for all. [Matthew 5:14-15]

What does it mean to let your light shine?

First, be willing to invest time with those in need. People today are lonely and hurting, they need someone who cares about them, and will tell them about the hope that is found in Jesus Christ alone. You can be that person, don't be afraid to reach out to others.
Second, listen to others carefully, with an open, compassionate heart. If people can tell that you are truly interested in them, they will more than likely trust what you have to say.
Third, admit when you are wrong. As believers, we sometimes think we need to appear holy and win every argument. An unbeliever can spot a self-righteous hypocrite a mile away. If you desire to foster a relationship with an unbeliever in order to lead that person to Christ, be humble and ready to acknowledge when you've made a mistake, for we too are sinners; the only difference is, we have been saved by grace.
Fourth, love others unconditionally. Jesus said, "By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" [John 13:35]. Our walk with God is to be characterized by genuine, unfailing love for those we encounter. This means we love them sacrificially just as Christ does, with forgiveness, mercy, and grace.
Fifth, help those around you to understand that the most important relationship in life is the one they have with Jesus Christ. People are accountable to the Lord, not us. When they stand before the throne of judgment, our friendship will not be able to save them. Therefore, we must be careful to lead them to the One who forgives their sins and reconciles them to the Father. Instead of insisting that others live a life that is pleasing to us.
Sixth, inspire others to be all they can be, and help them to recognize the Lord has a plan for their lives. When we anticipate the best for others and teach them to view their failures with grace, we provide the support they need to succeed in a manner that glorifies God.
Seventh, spend time in God's Word and prayer, so you will understand how best to minister to others. People will observe your faithfulness by how you live. And there is no telling what an incredible impact you will have on eternity.

In Galatians 2:20, the apostle Paul affirms, "The life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me." I am confident that you will live by faith in our Lord as well. Making the most of the opportunities He gives you, to be a helping hand to others. May God richly bless you as you seek and serve Him wholeheartedly.

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LOVING JESUS

2010-05-08T18:43:00.000-07:00

Whatever we do, it is because Christ's love controls us. Since we believe that Christ died for everyone, we also believe that we have all died to the old life we used to live. [2 Corinthians 5:14 NLT]

We love Him as a result of His loving us first. [1 John 4:19 NLT]

The more we love Jesus; The more we walk in the fullness of His Spirit; The easier it will be for us to say no to selfish desires and yes to God.

We know that God loves us unconditionally and as our love for God grows, we will not want to offend Him. We will not want to grieve the Holy Spirit. We will want to do what God wants us to do, and obedience will give us great joy in our journey. Remember our walk with God is progressive and we do get better and better, as we continue in His Word. You may not be where you want to be, but thank God, you are not where you used to be. Can you say amen to that? Give Him praise and have a great day, His love is eternal.

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THE RISEN CHRIST---FAITH'S REALITY

2010-04-03T12:10:00.001-07:00

What is it that makes Christ's victory over the grave so important, so encouraging? First, it gives us hope because Jesus is alive, seated at the Father's right hand, making intercessions for us. Hebrews 7:25 says, "He always lives to make intercession for us." We don't serve a prophet who is dead and unable to help us in our time of need. The risen Savior is active on our behalf---leading, providing for, and defending us at every turn! Second, the empty tomb fills us with confidence because it is a guarantee of our eternal life. We have undeniable evidence that God keeps His promise of salvation to us. Romans 6:4-5 explains, "Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we to might walk in newness of life. For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection." Since Jesus lives, it is certain that we will as well, and so will all our loved ones who believe in Him. Third, because our Savior kept His promise to reconcile us to the Father, we know He can and will keep every other promise He has made to us. Romans 8:31-32 reminds us, "If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?" There is nothing we could ever need or encounter that requires more power to overcome than what Jesus experienced on the cross and in the grave [see Ephesians 1:18-20]. No matter what you face, the Lord is able to help you through it.

Have you experienced some trial or discouragement that left you with heartache or pain? Are you struggling with confusion or uncertainty, not knowing which way to turn or what will happen to you? If so, then look to Jesus, look to the empty tomb, be encouraged, and find the assurance that every thing is going to be all right. Your Savior and Lord is alive and interceding on your behalf, so there is absolutely nothing in this world that should ever take away your joy, your peace, or your confidence in His perfect provision. May God richly bless you as you seek Him with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength.

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WALKING THE WALK

2010-03-11T17:50:00.000-08:00

The Bible portrays the Christian life as a walk. It speaks of walking in the Spirit, in God's ways, in love, and in truth. Our lives then, shouldn't be stagnant, they ought to move, and develop to become more and more Christ-like in nature. But what if you are going backward instead of forward? It can happen you know. So how can a change of direction come about?

First, have assurance that God keeps every one of His promises. In the Bible there are an amazing number of guarantees for believers, including wisdom for the asking, God's constant presence, and peace when we focus on Him.
Second, anticipate the Father's response. In other words, prepare for what He will do because of your confidence in His promises.
Third, be aware daily of His involvement in your life. By spending time in the Word, prayer, and meditation, as you follow these disciplines you will become sensitive to what He is doing.
Fourth, pray boldly because you are God's child (Heb. 4:16). Approaching the Father in such a manner isn't arrogant or prideful, but an overflow of your assurance in Him.
Finally, obey the leading of the Holy Spirit. In fact this is the true test of your faith. The Bible says without action faith is dead (James 2:17).

Can you sense that your life is progressing and you are maturing into Christ's likeness? Or do circumstances and character traits seen to hold you back? God promises to continue transforming His children throughout their lives. You can resist Him or cooperate with His gracious work in you. Its your choice.

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THE TRINITY

2010-02-12T10:45:00.000-08:00

The word Trinity does not appear in the Bible, but the truth of it is overwhelming. While there is only one God, the Godhead consists of three distinct persons, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. All are equally omniscient, omnipotent, omnipresent, eternal, and unchanging, but each one has unique functions. Scripture shows how each member of the Trinity fulfills His specific role, and Scripture also reveals how those three roles interrelate.

The way of redemption showcases these three roles in a very clear way. The Father designed and organized how mankind would be redeemed [Gal. 4:4-5]. He set into motion a set of events and actions that would culminate in the life, death, and resurrection of a Savior. The Son carried out the plan [John 6:37-38]. The Holy Spirit administers the plan. He sees to it that the elect feels a call toward God's saving grace [John 14:26; 16:8; Romans 1:19-20]. Furthermore, the Spirit transforms the lives and hearts of those who receive salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.

The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are equal in divine attributes. Yet each relates to mankind in a different way because He has a specific role. It is very important to understand this distinction: We do not have three gods; we have one God in three persons functioning uniquely, perfectly, and in unity.

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

THE STRUGGLE WITH DOUBT

2010-01-18T17:54:00.000-08:00

If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. But when he ask, he must believe and not doubt, because he who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the win. That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does [James 1:5-8].

The Bible teaches us to walk by faith, having full confidence in God. Yet many Christians are burdened by doubt. Even believers, who have been saved by faith for many years can waver in their trust in God. Doubt started in the garden of Eden when Satan introduced a question in Eve's mind: [Wouldn't eating the forbidden fruit bring special benefits]? And to this day, the Deceiver still whispers lies that can cause a believer's faith to falter. Satan will use any of the following to erode our confidence in the Lord: ignorance of Scripture, temptation to sin, feelings of guilt, a stronger focus on circumstances than on Christ, and the negative viewpoint of others. All of these inhibit the ability to see truth clearly and to stand firmly upon it.

While a doubter is characterized by negativity, uncertainty, and instability, a believer with full trust in God walks in absolute confidence, dependent on the Word of God, and capable of enduring, even when circumstances are gloomy. The Spirit filled walk should be characterized by faith, not doubt. Have you prayed for something but questioned whether the Lord would answer---or had trouble believing that God would actually do something He promised in Scripture? Child of God resist doubt, and take God at His Word.

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

A DESIRE TO KNOW THE WORD

2010-01-05T19:11:00.000-08:00

If we are growing in the Lord, then we will want to know what He says about everything. Part of our spiritual maturity is understanding the power and relevance of His Word. We should seek to discover what Scripture says about our relationships, our ministries, our careers, politics, and every other aspect of life. Ask yourself this question: How much time do I spend reading and studying God's Word, compared to the time I spend watching television, reading magazines, or scanning newspapers, and Web-sites? I know that it is important to stay up-to-date on world events, but we need to be careful, not to give too much of our time to worldly things. Would you not much rather know what God has to say about things, rather than what man has to say? I believe that you would say yes to that question, just as I would. So dear friend stay in the Word and grow. May God richly bless you.

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

A PROMISE FULFILLED

2009-12-13T14:37:00.000-08:00

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on His shoulders. And He will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end. He will reign on David’s throne and over His kingdom, establishing and upholding it with justice and righteousness from that time on and forever. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this [Isaiah 9:6-7].

Starting in the days of Adam and Eve, God promised to send a Savior for mankind……. A Redeemer to bring sinful mankind into right relationship with Himself. This Redeemer is Jesus Christ, who came to the world in the human form of a little child but left thirty-three years later as risen Lord and victor over the grave. Old Testament saints had many prophetic promises of how and why the coming Messiah would enter humanity. Let me give you a few with their fulfillment.

His arrival on earth:

As a child…[Isaiah 9:6]…[fulfilled in Luke 2:11] Born of a virgin…[Isaiah 7:14]…[fulfilled in Matt. 1:18-23; Luke 1:26-35] Born in the town of Bethlehem…[Micah 5:2-5]…[fulfilled in Matt. 2:1-6] Firstborn son…[Ex. 13:2]…[fulfilled in Luke 2:7, 23; John 3:16; Col. 1:15]

His family line:

The tribe of Judah…[Gen. 49:8-10; Micah 5:2]…[fulfilled in Matt. 1:1-3; Heb. 7:14; Rev. 5:5] David’s line, as a king…[Isaiah 9:7; 2 San. 7:12-13]…[fulfilled in Matt. 1:1] As the seed of Abraham…[Gen.17:7-8, 26: 3-4]…[fulfilled in Matt. 1:1, 17; Gal. 3:16; Heb. 2:16] As the seed of Isaac…[Gen. 17:19, 21:12, 26:2-4]…[fulfilled in Matt.1:2; Rom. 9:7; Heb. 11:17-19]

His eternal nature:

As the offspring of a woman, yet able to “bruise the serpent’s head”…[Gen. 3:15]…[fulfilled in Gal. 4:4; Heb. 2:14] As the King Eternal…[Isaiah 9:7; 1 Tim. 1:17] As the Alpha and Omega…[Rev. 1:8]

Dear friend, God keeps all of His promises. He is the same yesterday,today, and forever. MERRY CHRISTMAS AND MAY GOD RICHLY BLESS YOU.

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

WHEN DIFFICULTIES BOMBARD US

2009-11-16T18:16:00.000-08:00

Where can we find strength and confidence when we face troubles? Paul explains: God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose…If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things?…Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?…In all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord [Romans 8:28, 31-32, 35, 37-39].

Dear friend, the only place to go is to Jesus Christ. May I give you four principles from God’s Word I believe will help make a difference when believers face difficulties in this fallen world.

First, whenever you face difficulties, remember that God is in control of all your circumstances. Psalm 103:19 declares, “The LORD has established His throne in the heavens, and His sovereignty rules over all.” This is why believers can be sure that we will overcome every obstacle and problem---because God can handle whatever happens and is responsible for leading us to victory. Though He may not have initiated our trials, He allowed them. That means He can bring good out of them and teach us powerful lessons if we trust Him.

Second, remember that the Lord takes full responsibility for all your needs when you are following Him in obedience (Romans 8:31-32). Paul confirmed this principle when he wrote, “God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” [Phil.4:19]. The Father is faithful to provide for you, even when you cannot see how He will do so (Ps. 37:25). After all, He provided His very best, His only begotten Son to save you from your sins and a Devil’s hell. Of course, this does not mean that God will give you everything you want. Sometimes the things you desire do not fulfill His purpose for your life. But you can be sure that whatever the Lord offers you, and even in what He withholds, He always has your best interest at heart (Matt. 7:9-11).

Third, remember that if you have trusted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, He is always with you (Romans 8:35-37). You are not alone. No matter where you go or what you go through, God will never forsake you. (Deut. 31:6,8; John 14:18; Heb. 13:5). David testified to this when he wrote, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for you are with me” (Ps. 23:4). Others may abandon you, but the Lord won’t. He can’t because as a believer, you are sealed with His Holy Spirit (Eph. 4:30). This means you always have the most powerful Friend, Counselor, and Advocate with you to heal, help, and lead when the road of life grows lonely, and confusing.

Finally, remember that the Lord loves you with an eternal, irrevocable love (Romans 8:38-39). You cannot lose God’s love. It is unconditional, sacrificial, without limit, and based on His unwavering character, not on your behavior (Rom. 5:8; I John 4:7-10). That does not mean He condones sin. On the contrary, ungodly behavior is destructive to you, so He despises it. What it means is that His love for you is not bases on what you do or don’t do. In other words you don’t have to earn it or work to keep it. When you fail, you do not forfeit it, and no one could ever convince Him to care for you less. His love is freely given and all you have to do is open your heart to receive it.

We cannot escape the trials of life, but we can have confidence no matter what the circumstances are, our Heavenly Father is in control, provides for our needs, is always with us, and loves us very much. If you belong to Jesus, you are forgiven, you are loved, you are going to live forever, so go out and tell someone today for goodness sake. May God richly bless you is my prayer, in Jesus Name.

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

JOHN CALVIN

2009-10-28T14:58:00.000-07:00

Since no man is excluded from calling upon God, the gate of salvation is open to all. There is nothing else to hinder us from entering, but our own unbelief.

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PRAYING FOR OTHERS

2009-09-12T19:02:00.000-07:00

We have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light. [Colossians 1:9-12]

Intercessory prayer is a very important part of a believer’s prayer life. When we intercede for others, we are reflecting God’s love in a very special and powerful way. I hope the following outline on Col. 1:9-12 will be helpful to you.

To intercede for others, ask God that they would…
Be filled with the knowledge of His will (Col. 1:9)
Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord (Col. 1:10)
Bear fruit in every good work (Col. 1:10)
Increase in the knowledge of God (Col. 1:10)
Be strengthened with all power (Col. 1:11)
Joyously give thanks to the Father (Col. 1:11-12)

Remember trusting God means looking beyond what we can see to what God sees. May God richly bless you as you pray on the behalf of others.

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

PURSUING HOLINESS

2009-08-20T14:46:00.000-07:00

See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to everyone else. Always be joyful. Keep on praying. No matter what happens, always be thankful, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. Do not stifle the Holy Spirit. Do not scoff at prophecies, but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good. Keep away from every kind of evil [1 Thess. 5:15-22].

In this passage Paul sets forth five principles for Christian living. Note!

(1)…The believer is to be merciful [v-15]…do not pay back evil for evil…(we are to substitute love for vengeance).

(2)…The believer is to be joyful [v-16]…we need to be joyful at all times…(worldly happiness is dependent on outward circumstances, Christian joy is dependent on doing God’s will).

(3)…The believer is to be prayerful [v-17]…Paul says we are to keep on praying, Jesus says in Luke 11: 9-10, “And so I tell you, keep on asking, and you will be given what you ask for. Keep on looking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be open. For everyone who ask, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And the door is opened to everyone who knocks.”…(living our lives in the spirit of prayer, practicing the presence of God is essential in our walk with Christ).

(4)…The believer is to be thankful [v-18]…no matter what happens we are to demonstrate a perpetual attitude of thanksgiving…(a thankful heart is a joyful heart).

(5)…The believer is to be careful [v-19-22]…the text says we are to be careful not to stifle (quench) the Spirit, and we are not to scoff (despise) prophecy, also we are to test everything that is said, and we are to avoid every kind of evil.

Surely this passage teaches that all Christians are to live lives full of joy, prayer, and gratitude. That doing what is right and good by biblical standards, being open and responsive to the Holy Spirit, Bible study, fellowship with believers who understand grace. All of these things I believe are God’s will for His children and are necessary if one is to pursue holiness. What do you think? Lets have some comments.

POINTS OF GRACE NETWORK

PRINCIPLES OF FELLOWSHIP

2009-07-21T21:24:00.000-07:00

This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all. So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness; we are not practicing the truth. But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin. [1 John 1:5-7]

As light, God both exposes man’s sin and condemns it. If anyone walks in darkness he is hiding from the truth which the light reveals. Jesus said in John 3:19-20; …..“judgment is based on this fact: God’s light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil. All who do evil hate the light and refuse to go near it for fear their sins will be exposed.” Since God is light it follows that a Christian cannot truly claim fellowship with God while living in darkness. A believer who says he is in fellowship with God [who is light], but who is disobeying Him [living in darkness] is lying.

John’s point is this; If believers live in the light where God is, then there is mutual fellowship between God and them. May I say child of God, it is significant that John talked about living or walking in the light, rather than according to the light. To live or walk according to the light would require sinless perfection and would make fellowship with God impossible for sinful humans. To walk or live in the light however, suggest an openness and responsiveness to the light.

Three principles: (1)-fellowship with God and other Christians is based on a correct understanding of who Jesus is. (2)-if we claim to be without sin it is a sign that we are living in darkness. (3)-confession of sin allows us to continue to walk in the light.

THE SOURCE

EXPERIENCING GOD'S LOVE

2009-06-22T21:30:00.000-07:00

Scripture says that God loves us, in fact Scripture says that God is love, and the cross proves it. Many believers do not experience God’s love. The problem is not with the Lord, but with the individual’s capacity to sense His care. One reason a person doesn’t experience God’s love is the tendency to measure divine love by circumstances. When the Lord allows tragedies and pain, some consider Him uncaring. The age-old question then becomes personal: “How could a loving God allow me or those I care about to suffer?” We will never fully understand His ways, but we can be sure of this: His compassion and concern are bigger that our suffering or the suffering of those we love. In the fullness of time He will make all things right. You can take that to the bank.

Sometimes a sense of personal unworthiness can obstruct the acceptance of God’s love. Focusing on past sins, comparing yourself to others, will lead to guilt and hopelessness. Satan specializes in promoting these self- condemning thoughts and feelings. Jesus never says, “Straighten up, and then I’ll care about you.” Remember that divine love is based on God’s character, not on our performance. The root of all the barriers to experiencing God’s love is unbelief. When we deny His interest and concern for us, we doubt the truth of Scripture.

Let me give you three truths about God’s love…. (1) God’s love is personal. Christianity stands out among all the world religions because our God desires a personal relationship with every man, woman, and child. His care and concern are not limited to just one ethnic group. He loves every individual specifically and desires regular, intimate conversation with each one. (2) God’s love is unconditional. Nothing about your character or behavior can make Him love you less or more. It’s who He is rather than something He does. Nor are His care and concern limited, because He is infinite and eternal. (3) God’s love is available to everyone. In John 3:16, Jesus says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” What a waste it would be to live as though unloved when God’s infinite, eternal love is offered to you. May I say, the Lord wants each of us to experience His great love in a personal, intimate way. Don’t let the Enemy’s lies or life’s hardships steal the enjoyment and security of this great blessing.

THE SOURCE

A CITY ON A HILL

2009-05-20T22:09:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed that everyone’s life makes a statement? The truth is that every one of us communicates to others through our character, actions, and words. The believer’s life should be an expression of glory to God while conveying to onlookers the importance of divine truth. Wherever we are, Jesus’ light should shine brightly through us so that He is evident in a dark world. Remember, the strength of our life message is directly related to the depth of our relationship with God. May I say; this does not mean our lives have to be perfect. But our actions and responses should demonstrate that our heavenly Father is dependable, faithful, forgiving, and present. We are His ambassadors, representing the Savior to the people we encounter each day. The Scriptures say, we are salt and light, our lives are opportunities for those around us to see the Lord in action as we serve others---or as we reveal peacefulness and trust, even during difficult times.

Jesus likened believers’ lives to a city on a hill, which cannot be hidden [Matt. 5:14]. When others watch us, they ought to see reflections of Christ---which means we must let the Holy Spirit express His life through us. Realize that God’s goal is for us to become more like Christ. This sometimes involves suffering, be prepared and willing to suffer. God uses difficult times and painful circumstances to draw His children close to Himself. Know that He has allowed them for your growth, His glory, and encouragement to others. Recognizing this will help you surrender your will and desires to His plan. As you do, He will build a beautiful message into your life.

Think about your public life and your private life. Are both glorifying to the Lord? Child of God, allow God’s light to penetrate any darkness in your thoughts, words, or deeds. Then others may be drawn to the Father by what they notice in you. Every encounter we have is an opportunity to reflect Jesus into somebody’s life. Ask the Lord to strengthen your faith and your walk so that those observing you can’t help but be drawn towards His light. As a Christian our life is a witness, either a good witness or a bad witness. We make the choice. May God richly bless you.

THE SOURCE

WHY IS THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS SO IMPORTANT?

2009-04-09T19:16:00.000-07:00

He is not here; He has risen! Remember how He told you, while He was still with you in Galilee: The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, be crucified and on the third day be raised again. [Luke 24:6-7]

Because Christ was raised from the dead, we know that the kingdom of heaven has broken into earth’s history. Our world is now headed for redemption, not disaster. We know that death has been conquered, and we too will be raised from the dead to live forever with Christ. The resurrection gives authority to the church’s witness in the world. The primary message of the early church, was that Jesus Christ had been raised from the dead and was alive forever more. The resurrection helps us find meaning even in great tragedy. No matter what happens to us as we walk with the Lord, the resurrection gives us hope for the future. The resurrection assures us that Christ is alive and ruling His kingdom. He is not legend, He is alive and real. God’s power that brought Jesus back from the dead is available to us so that we can live for Him in an evil world. Christians can look very different from one another, and they can hold widely varying beliefs about politics, life-style, and even theology. But one central belief unites and inspires all true believers---Jesus Christ rose from the dead! Remember the resurrection of Christ proves without a shadow of a doubt that He is who He said He is. The Great I Am, the Creator and Sustainer of the universe, King of Kings, Lord of Lords, fully God and fully Man. What a Savior, give Him praise and glory, for worthy is the Lamb. Amen and Amen. Have a happy Easter and may God richly bless you.

THE SOURCE

ON ACCOUNT OF SIN

2009-03-22T18:31:00.000-07:00

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. [Romans 8:3]

When we as believers suffer persecution, criticism, or even death, we are sinners suffering because of the sin of others. Christ also suffered for sins, but as the sinless One. [First Peter 2:22 says He “committed no sin.” He never thought, said, or did anything evil. Everything He thought, said, and did was perfectly holy]. The sins of others placed Him on the cross. He died because of the sins of the whole world. Romans 8:3 says that Jesus died “on account of sin.” He suffered as a sin offering because “the wages of sin is death” [Romans 6:23]. Just as in the Old Testament God required an animal sacrifice to symbolize the need for our atonement for sin, the New Testament presents Christ as the sacrifice who provided not a symbol, but the reality of our eternal atonement for sin. Stop now and thank Him for paying your sin debt in full, for His redeeming and cleansing blood, for His finished work, and for His imputed righteousness. We have so much to thank Him for.

THE SOURCE
Bible teaching focusing on grace & the sufficiency of Christ.

RESURRECTION POWER

2009-02-20T21:20:00.000-08:00

That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection [Philippians 3:10]. Jesus’ resurrection most graphically demonstrates the extent of His power. That’s the kind of power the apostle Paul wanted to experience because he realized he was helpless to overcome sin on his own. The resurrection power of Jesus Christ deals with sin at our salvation, but it doesn’t stop there. Scripture says, “we were buried with Christ in His death, and we rose with Him to walk in newness of life” [Romans 6:4]. May I say, to defeat sin daily, we need His resurrection power to be our resource. We need His strength to serve Him faithfully, to conquer temptation, to overcome trials, and to witness boldly. Only as we abide in Him and allow the Holy Spirit to live the life of Christ in and through us, will we be able to have victory over sin in this life. You think about that.

THE SOURCE

A GOD OF GRACE

2009-01-12T21:23:00.000-08:00

But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved [Ephesians 2:4-5].

Grace is God’s unmerited favor shown to mankind. We cannot earn it or ever be good enough to deserve it. May I say, we need to understand certain truths about God and ourselves. First, God is perfectly holy, so He cannot allow sin in His presence. When Adam and Eve chose to disobey God and eat the fruit from the forbidden tree, their intimate connection with God was broken. Since all future generations inherited their sinful nature, every person is born with a disposition that is bent away from the Lord.

Next, God’s character is just. As a result, He requires payment for all sins. The penalty He demands is death (Romans 6: 23), not just physical but also spiritual (eternal separation from Him). But thanks be to God we have a merciful God who does not treat us as our actions deserve, but instead extends His grace toward us. He designed and put into play a plan that would affirm His holy nature, meet the requirements of His justice, and enable us to become members of His family: He sent His Only Son, born of a virgin in the likeness of man, to accomplish our salvation. Born as a human being, Jesus lived a perfect sinless life, fulfilling the law perfectly. He alone qualified as the one who could satisfy divine justice. Christ took our place, bore our sins, and experienced God’s wrath over our rebellion--all so that we could be reconciled to the Father.

Note! God made this provision for our salvation while we were still sinners (Rom. 5:8). Have you acknowledged your sinful state, and received His forgiveness through faith in Jesus Christ? If so, are you expressing ongoing thankfulness for His grace? You thank about that.

THE SOURCE .........................................................................NEW LIFE
Bible teaching--focusing on grace and the sufficiency of Christ.

WHO IS JESUS?

2008-12-19T21:49:00.000-08:00

Scripture tells us that Jesus is God: Christ existed before His own birth- in fact, even before time began. The prophet Micah spoke of His ancient origin [But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for Me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. [Micah 5:2], and Paul named Jesus as the Creator [He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For by Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together. [Colossians 1:15-17]. Note also that Jesus claimed equality with the invisible God and was the perfect reflection of Him (i.e. John 10:30 and John 14:9).

May I say, The Savior performed many miracles, such as restoring the dead to life---that were possible only by supernatural power (see John 11:43-44). Christ received worship and forgave sin. These two acts alone are appropriate only for Deity. This Christmas think about Jesus coming to earth as a baby, imagine the power resting in that little manger, the omnipotent God was lying in a trough made from trees He had created, under stars He Himself had strewn across the sky! He did all this because He loves you. The Bible makes it clear that there is only one way to eternal life: by trusting in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior [Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved [ Acts 4:12]. Friend weigh the evidence, and then make a wise decision to follow Him.

THE SOURCE.......... NEW LIFE BLOG

FOCUSING ON BIBLICAL TRUTHS

2008-12-09T18:23:00.000-08:00

What we believe has a direct impact on our response to life’s problems.

Where the mind dwells, the heart follows.

Preparation for the future starts with developing biblical thinking.

In times of discouragement, you have a choice. Will you focus on your circumstances, or will you fix your gaze on Jesus and trust Him?

We know that God won’t add to or take away from the Bible. It is His complete and reliable Word. Therefore, anyone claming to have more scriptures, new revelation, or another Testament is a fraud.

Because we are eternally secure in Christ, we are never in a hopeless circumstance. We may feel desperate, but emotions are not reliable. Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior and friend, is our constant source of hope.

The power is not in what we say, but in what God says.

THE SOURCE NEW LIFE BLOG

WHERE WILL YOU SPEND ETERNITY

2008-11-12T19:23:00.000-08:00

In our homes, we have smoke detectors to warn us of a fire. Our car’s dashboard has lights to warns us of a mechanical problem. We would be foolish to ignore these warnings. Like wise we need to pay close attention to the scriptures that warn us about the terrible consequences for rejecting God’s provision of a Savior.

The Bible tells us how to be reconciled to God so we can spend eternity with Him. We need to understand and accept the truth that, sin separates us from God [for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God…Romans 3:23] [For God was pleased to have all His fullness dwell in Him, and through Him to reconcile to Himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through His blood, shed on the cross…Colossians 1:19-20]. Because of Adam and Eve’s rebellion, we all are born with a nature bent away from God, and His justice requires that we pay for our transgressions.

God’s Word says; “the wages of sin is death.” Because of the Father’s immeasurable love, He sent His only Son Jesus, to make that payment for us [1Cor. 15:3]. Only the death of one who was perfect would satisfy the Father’s righteous judgment. Jesus lived a life without sin, which qualified Him to become our substitute. He willing took our place and died in order to pay our sin debt. God accepted His death in place of ours and declared us righteous in His sight [This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe……… Romans 3:22]. You see salvation is a free gift, received through faith in Christ alone. [For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast…Ephesians 2:8-9].

Friend our good works will neither satisfy divine justice nor pay for our transgressions. They are not what God requires for forgiveness or adoption into His family. Faith in Jesus Christ is the only way to God. Jesus said in John 14:6, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” When we receive (place our trust in) Christ as our Lord and Savior, heaven becomes our eternal destination. God wants you to live forever with Him. If you have not made your eternal destination certain, do so now. For we are not promised another second here on earth. The Bible says, “today is the day of salvation.” If you are not saved friend, it is my prayer that by a simple act of faith you will acknowledge your sins, believe in your heart that Jesus died in your place, paying the sin debt you owed, and then rose from the dead. The Bible says if you do this and its from the heart, you will be saved……. [Romans 10:9-10, That if you confess with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved]. He is waiting with open arms, don’t delay, run to Jesus today. May God richly bless you.

THE SOURCE

A LIFE OF BECOMING

2008-10-05T18:45:00.000-07:00

Many people think of the Christian life as something you do. You read the Bible, you pray, you go to church, you sing hymns, you give money, you just do, and do. That is not what the Christian faith is all about. Authentic Christianity is about becoming rather than doing. The life of faith that God designed involves receiving Jesus into your heart and allowing Him to change your habits, mindset, beliefs, interest, and concerns so that you become more and more like Him. Someone has rightly said; “the Christian life is learning to be who you already are in Christ Jesus.

THE SOURCE

THE HUMANITY OF CHRIST

2008-09-11T18:14:00.000-07:00

2:17 Therefore he had to be made like his brethren in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make expiation for the sins of the people. 2:18 For because he himself has suffered and been tempted, he is able to help those who are tempted. Hebrews 2:17-18 RSV

Jesus had to leave heaven and take on human flesh not only to become our sacrifice, but also........ so He would know experientially exactly what it's like to be one of us, that's what makes Him such a great advocate. Jesus knows what it feels like to be tempted. We can never say to Him, You don't know what it's like. He does know, in fact we know less of the pain of temptation than He does. Keep in mind it pains us to resist temptation, whereas it pained Him to be tempted. For there was no sin in Him and nothing to respond to sin. Putting biblical truths in focus....[believers can trust Jesus to help when they are tempted].

THE SOURCE

REFLECTIONS

2008-09-11T17:03:00.000-07:00

God will provide all the wisdom, faith, and power we need to accomplish what He ask us to do. Therefore, we should regard obedience as a joy.

Both our successes and failures should teach us to live a lifestyle of commitment to the Lord. Make a decision to follow Him regardless of the outcome. His sovereignty demands our obedience.

Sin is not weakness, it is a disease; it is red--handed rebellion against God and the magnitude of that rebellion is expressed by Calvary’s cross. [Oswald Chambers]

We have a strange illusion that mere time cancels sin….but mere time does nothing either to the fact or to the guilt of sin. The guilt is washed out not by time but by repentance and the blood of Christ. [C. S. Lewis]

Looking at the wound of sin will never save anyone. What you must do is look at the remedy. [D. L. Moody]

By nature I was too blind to know Him, too proud to trust Him, too obstinate to serve Him, too base-- minded to love Him. [John Newton]

Any time we attempt to meet our own needs or accomplish anything without God, we sin and set ourselves up for failure. [Charles Stanley]

FROM SPURGEON’S SERMON, THE BED AND ITS COVERING
You may as easily be destroyed by trusting in good doctrine as by trusting in good works. The only salvation that will stand the test of the day of judgment, is believing in the Lord Jesus Christ, and receiving His Spirit, and being made like Him. There are some who have no marks of the Spirit; who have no evidence of piety; who are not holy; who live in sin; who can live as sinners live; who have the image of the devil upon them, and yet they think they are the children of God! Believing right doctrine will no more save you, than doing good works will save you.

THE SOURCE

REFLECTIONS

2008-08-06T21:18:00.000-07:00

You will either grow in grace or grown in disgrace. The way you grow in grace is through the Word of God.

Have you noticed how our society has lost its moral compass? There is a direct correlation between that loss and our loss of faith in God.

I don’t have to make you think I am so great. I’m not. God is great. I don’t have to work at making you think I am good. I’m not. God is good. You see it is about Him, not about you and me.

A bitter spirit towards another person will clog our fellowship with the Father.

When we say to little, we can always add to it, but when we say to much, we cannot remove what has been said.

Adversity can be painful, but the Lord uses it to further His purposes and equip us to carry out His plan. Dear friend, what is He trying to teach you in the midst of your trials? Remember the Lord is a faithful companion who uses our troubles to prepare us for His work. Remember also that even Jesus suffered in order to fulfill God’s redemptive purpose. Each time trouble comes your way, focus your attention upon Jesus and His ability to care for you.

A personal relationship implies intimacy and communication. Our intimacy with the Lord is shown in the substance of our prayer life, our involvement in God’s Word, and the fruit that results as we live out our faith.

As we abide in Christ, we will bear fruit and thereby demonstrate our connection with the Savior. May I say, Jesus desires that we abide in Him, His Word, and in His love.

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REFLECT ON THESE INSIGHTS

2008-07-04T21:49:00.000-07:00

GOD SAVED ME BECAUSE?
God saved me because He loves me. The sole reason that God sent His Son to this world to die for your sins and mine was because He loved us. God forgives us, grants us eternal life, and gives us the gift of His Holy Spirit out of His immeasurable love and grace. There is no other reason.
GOD’S PURPOSE FOR SAVING ME WAS?
God’s purpose for saving me was to bring Him glory. God saved you and me so that we might be His trophies. We serve as examples to others of God’s love and mercy at work in and through a human life.
I AM MOST LIKE JESUS WHEN I?
I am most like Jesus when I serve others. The foremost characteristic of the life of Jesus Christ was and is service. We are most like Him when we serve as He served.
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Animosity toward another person and intimacy with God can not coexist in the same heart.

Developing an unwavering faith is the key to living abundantly and becoming a powerful witness for the Lord Jesus Christ.

God has not promised to supply all our greed’s. When the child of God is in the will of God, serving for the glory of God, then he will have every need met. Hudson Taylor said; “When God’s work is done in God’s way for God’s glory, it will not lack for God’s supply.”

All our fret and worry is caused by calculating without God [Oswald Chambers].

When you see Christians who are always judging other Christians, always condemning, and looking down on others. Know this; they have been spending more time in front of the mirror admiring themselves, than they have been spending before the throne of grace.

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SURRENDERING ALL

2008-06-04T18:20:00.000-07:00

Seeking God’s direction and acknowledging His authority takes surrender and obedience. Surrendering our goals to God allows His plan for our lives to flourish. Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” The disciples surrendered to Jesus’ call while they were working and going about their daily lives (Matt. 4:18-22; Luke 5:27-28). Jesus’ example of submitting to the will of the Father is shown in His willingness to die on the cross for our sins. The Bible says in Matt. 26:39; Going a little farther, He (Jesus) fell with His face to the ground and prayed, “My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as You will.”

Surrendering our personal goals to the will of God is essential for spiritual growth. We need to obey the Lord, even when the situation is not anticipated, expected, or fully understood. By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going [Heb. 11:8]. Take note! We obey because we are free, we do not obey to be free. Obedience is the result of our freedom in Christ, not the other way around.

Obedience to God’s will strengthens us and builds our faith. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will obey what I command” [John 14:15]. The question is, do you love the Lord? Do you have a love relationship with God through Jesus Christ? The Bible says, “we love God because He first loved us.” Dear friend, our motivation for obedience is love for the Lord. Are you constrained by His love? The Christian life is not doing stuff, but abiding in Christ. If we abide in Him, love and obedience is the natural outworking of that relationship. Tell the Lord how much you love Him, and ask Him to give you the grace to abide in Christ. He will answer that prayer, for He has commanded us to abide in Him.

Humility is the hallmark of a Christ centered life; A life surrendered to God’s will. The truth is, God is Sovereign and owes us nothing; but we owe Him everything. You think about that. May God bless.

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THE FOUNDATION OF VICTORY

2008-05-05T21:29:00.000-07:00

May I say that Jesus did not die just to take you to heaven, but to indwell and empower you here on earth! The same God that spoke John 3:16, also spoke Romans 6:14, “For sin shall not have dominion over you: for you are not under the law, but under grace.”

Yet, you may ask, “Because I struggle so much with sin, I wonder how I could really know victory?” Well in Romans 6:6, Paul makes the answer crystal clear. (Are you ready for this?) “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.” This simple verse is the very foundation of your victory over sin. In fact, the verses above can become your personal declaration of independence over the power and domination of sin. When Christ died for your sins, He not only removed the penalty of sin, which is eternal separation from God, but also it’s power over you. By the Holy Spirit, this same risen Christ now indwells every saved person. The Christian life is not you trying to grit your teeth and somehow live for Him, it’s learning to let Him live through you! We do this through a moment by moment faith in His indwelling life and power.

Galatians 2:20 further describes the liberating truth of Christ living in us. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I but Christ lives in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Do you see it? When you received Christ, all that He accomplished on the cross is fully alive and active in you. Because you are in Christ, His death to sin’s penalty and power is now your death to sin’s penalty and power.

Dear friend, when you are convicted of sin, don’t despair. Look straight to Jesus to overcome it’s grip. Just as you are forgiven by His sacrificial death, you are empowered by His resurrection life, working in and through you. Let this cleansing process point you to Jesus and victory, not to yourself and defeat.

You may ask how do I do this? In Colossians 2:6, we find God’s answer. “As you have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk you in Him.” That’s it. We walk in Christ the same way we received Him. So how did you receive Jesus? You received Him by simple faith. You simply took Jesus at His Word and trusted Him to save you. And friend that’s exactly how you walk in victory over sin and self. When you face temptation and weakness, you simply claim Christ’s forgiveness and indwelling power to be your victory. You choose to turn from the sin and trust Jesus for His power to live through you. What happens if you still feel tempted? You just keep trusting and resisting the sin. In God’s time, you will see complete and total victory. Jesus Christ cannot fail! You think about that. God bless…

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD

WHAT THE LAW DEMANDS, GRACE PROVIDES

THE AUTHORIZED VERSION

2008-04-15T20:54:00.000-07:00

All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness (2Tim 3:16).

Child of God the Scriptures point to, and instruct us in how to know and follow Jesus. He is the Authorized Version of God's Word. And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14) He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by Him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities--all things have been created through Him and for Him. (Col 1:15-16) Do you read the Scriptures translated in old English, modern English, Chinese, Hebrew, Spanish, German, or Afrikaans? Maybe you read the Scriptures in Korean or Russian. The Scriptures tell us that Jesus is God's Authorized Version for all the nations. God has provided for the spread of Scripture all over the world enduring many enemies over centuries. This is even more amazing: The Word of God is working in you by His Spirit so that you are a living letter from Christ, written not with ink on paper, or chisel in stone, but by the very finger of God. (see 2Cor 3:4) Let's pray. Lord Jesus, we have everything we need for life and godliness by knowing You. Continue to make each of us Your letter of love by the working of Your Spirit. Train us to rely on You, to walk with You, and to serve others in the satisfaction of Your love. Amen

Today's very great and precious promise For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. (Phil 1:6) We have God's Word on it.

WALK THE TALK

In John McArthur’s book The Believer’s Life in Christ, he writes; The Christian life is the process of becoming what you already are in Christ. Consider the difference between the development of a polliwog and a child. A polliwog is born as a shapeless mass with a tail. After a while it sprouts some legs. Eventually it takes the form of a frog or toad. However, when a human baby is born into the world it comes with all the necessary parts---they merely need to grow. The same thing is true of a Christian. When you were born into the family of God, you were not a spiritual polliwog. You were complete. You have all the parts of a mature Christian. You simply need to grow. You think about that.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
WHAT THE LAW DEMANDS, GRACE PROVIDES

WE WORSHIP A LIVING SAVIOR!

2008-03-23T17:13:00.000-07:00

THREE TRUTHS FROM SCRIPTURE THAT WILL BRING YOU PEACE AND HOPE THIS EASTER SEASON
(1)…Every believer in Christ is absolutely assured of eternal life beyond the grave. Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me will never die” (John 11: 25-26). Jesus keep His word that He would die and rise again on the third day---forgiving our sins and reconciling us to the Father. Because He was faithful to do as He said, we can always believe every promise that He makes to us.

(2)…Every child of God will experience a bodily resurrection. Romans 8:11 promises, “If the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies.” When we receive Christ as Lord and Savior, the Holy Spirit seals, and prepares us for the day of redemption (Eph. 4:30). This means just as Christ was resurrected bodily, so will you be. You will be changed---the “perishable will have put on imperishable, and this mortal will have put on immortality” (1Cor. 15:54). Your body will leave behind all its pains and problems---never again to face the sickness and suffering you felt here on earth.

(3)…We are predestined to be conformed to the image of Christ. Paul said in Romans 8:29-30, “Those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, so that He would be the firstborn among many brethren; and these whom He predestined, He also called; and these whom He called, He also justified; and these whom He justified, He also glorified.” God sees us as His glorified children. Although He justifies us the moment we receive Christ as Savior and Lord; when we pass from this life into His presence, He absolutely prefects us. We become everything we were created to be---with no sin to tempt us or enemy to hinder us. There will be no more tears or hardships---just the wonderful fulfillment and joy of being in God’s presence.

If you know Jesus Christ as your Lord and savior, sin cannot conquer you and the grave will not hold you. The battle is over---the victory has already been won at the cross, and the empty tomb of Christ. Because Jesus lives, all who trust in Him will live as well! On resurrection day, when the trumpet of God sounds; “The dead in Christ will rise, then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord” (1Thess. 4:17). May I say the message of Easter is that, for the believer, death is not the end but a glorious beginning---the ultimate realization of all our hopes because we will be with Christ forever in heaven. I pray that the Holy Spirit will seal these truths in your heart today, and that an eager anticipation of the Lord’s return will keep you in His Word, surrendered, and walking in the fullness of His Spirit. God bless you.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
WHAT THE LAW DEMANDS, GRACE PROVIDES

FULLY SURRENDERED

2008-03-14T18:13:00.000-07:00

We are to live in unconditional surrender to God’s will. This means acknowledging that He has the right to govern our lives, relinquishing control of our finances, family, friends, and fun, over to Him. Now and then, we may have to let go of things we love, but at other times, we will receive rich blessings from His hand. By submitting to God’s authority, we declare our trust in Him and our willingness to accept whatever He sends our way, riches, poverty, health or sickness, marriage or singleness. Full submission is the only way to live a victorious Christian life. That’s how we glorify the Father, grow in Christ-likeness and receive the Lord’s favor. By yielding control to the Lord we position ourselves to live the abundant spiritual life. We will experience His deep love, which satisfies more fully than any other. Our usefulness in His service will be maximized as we operate in the Spirit’s power. Our obedience will bring glory to Him as well as blessings to us. Surrender is the way to abundance. If you have not already done so, it is my prayer that you will humble yourself before God and relinquish all to Him.

JESUS SAVES

2008-02-15T18:35:00.000-08:00

People have many different opinions about who goes to heaven. Some believe ethical behavior and moral character bring automatic acceptance by God. Others, while acknowledging they have bad habits and behavior, claim a self improvement plan will gain them admission into heaven. A third group, assumes because they have made bad choices in life, they will be disqualified from heaven. None of this thinking lines up with what the Bible teaches. Scripture tells us that character and good works do not determine our eternal state. Rather, the barrier between us and a holy God is our sinful nature. Romans 5:12 teaches that Adam and Eve’s sin caused all mankind to begin physical life dead to spiritual things and under a sentence of judgment. No amount of good works or moral behavior can change our sinful nature. Nor do bad choices make our nature worse.

Without direct intervention and help from the Lord, we would be a people without hope. We would find the entrance to heaven closed and would face an eternity of separation from God. But the Father had a plan to deal with our corrupt nature so we could spend eternity with Him. He sent His Son as our willing substitute; Jesus took our sins on Himself and received the punishment we deserved. What we were helpless to do, Christ accomplished for us. Through faith in Christ alone, we have assurance that we will live in God’s presence forever.

An earnest desire for salvation begins with the recognition that we have sinned against a holy God. We must be aware that there is no hope for salvation apart from the Lord Jesus Christ. Having understood these two facts, we need to place our trust in His sacrifice for the payment of our sin debt. Some people use the terminology “ask Jesus to forgive your sins” or “ask Jesus into your heart.” It does not matter how we describe the experience, if we repent of sin and make a decision to receive Christ as Lord and Savior; the Bible says we are saved. God promises to respond to a humble acknowledgement of His Son’s sacrifice.

Do you desire to have a personal relationship with the One who created you and loves you unconditionally? If so tell Him in your own words, or use this sample prayer. Dear Heavenly Father, I acknowledge that I am a sinner in need of Your forgiveness. I believe in my heart that Jesus fully paid the penalty for all my sin by dying at Calvary, and that He rose from the dead. Thank You for Your grace to save me even though I am undeserving. Please show me how to start living for You. Amen.

If you received Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, be sure to tell someone, and join a Bible believing church where Christ is exalted, the Bible is taught, and love for Christ, and others is demonstrated.

BITS & PIECES

God has not promised us immunity from the trials of life, however, the Bible affirms that God’s power is greater than any problem or situation we face.

Difficulty prepares us for future blessing, and hardships redirect our thinking so that we are focused solely on Christ.

We can trust God to guide us into His perfect will as we yield our lives to Him.

God’s comforting presence can and will sustain us during difficult situations and uncertain times.

The Lord already knows how His own will respond to test of obedience. He challenges us because He wants us to know the truth about how well we submit. A believer’s willingness to obey, or disobey reveals the state of his or her commitment to Christ.

In God’s eyes, proper motivation is necessary for sharing the gospel. The right reasons for sharing the gospel include love for Him, love for the lost, and a desire to be obedient.

There is no self-help in the believer’s life. We are to surrender to the work and way of God’s Spirit.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
WHAT THE LAW DEMANDS, GRACE PROVIDES

DIVINE SOVREIGNTY

2008-01-15T21:20:00.000-08:00

That God predestines, and that man is responsible, are two things that few can see. They are believed to be inconsistent and contradictory; but they are not. It is just the fault of our weak judgment. Two truths cannot be contradictory to each other. If, then, I find taught in one place that everything is fore-ordained, that is true, and if I find in another place that man is responsible for his actions, that is true; and it is my folly that leads me to imagine that two truths can ever contradict each other. These two truths, I do not believe, can ever be welded into one upon any human anvil, but one they shall be in eternity: they are two lines that are so nearly parallel, that the mind that shall pursue them farthest, will never discover that they converge; but they do converge, and they will meet somewhere in eternity, close to the throne of God, whence all truth doth spring… You ask me to reconcile the two. I answer, they do not want any reconcilement; I never tried to reconcile them to myself, because I could never see a discrepancy… Both are true; no two truths can be inconsistent with each other; and what you have to do is believe them both. [Charles Spurgeon] August 1, 1858

BITS & PIECES
Beware of becoming enamored with any particular theological system lest it deteriorate into a doctrinal greenhouse that cultivates theological arrogance, which, when in full bloom, produces a fragrance that is sweet in the nostrils of Satan, but is at once a revolting stench in the nostrils of God.

Be patient in the life of faith, although circumstances may often give us a false reading, God’s timing is always right.

God never intended for us to be strong on our own; He wants us to find courage, hope, and strength in Him and His Word.

Once the truth is seen it can not be unseen.

Surrender is essential, until you give every area of your life to Christ, you will never experience the true success that God wants you to have.

God loves us just as we are, but He loves us too much to let us stay that way.

People don’t clean up their lives before entering church; They come to church dirty! God does the cleaning of heart, soul, and mind when someone repents.

Life becomes fruitful as we surrender ourselves to God and carry out His will, by allowing His Spirit to live through us, we will find our lives characterized by significance and satisfaction.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
WHAT THE LAW DEMANDS, GRACE PROVIDES.

THE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS

2007-12-25T20:50:00.000-08:00

When Jesus was born, only a few people realized He was more than a typical infant. The same is true today. Many people attend Christmas Eve services and observe holiday traditions but fail to consider the real meaning of Christmas.

From the moment of Jesus’ human birth, He was at the same time fully God and fully man the God man [Colossians 2:9]. In Him, the divine and human nature were perfectly united. Jesus did not lay aside His deity at any time, nor did He exchange it for humanity. Instead He choose to submit to His Father’s will and live as one of us. Throughout His earthly life, He remained the eternal Son of God, but simultaneously possessed a human nature unblemished by sin.

The fourth gospel opens confirming the deity of Christ. “In the beginning was the Word [that is Jesus] and the Word was with God and the Word was God” [John 1:1]. We read also in John 1:14-- “The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us.” Jesus said in John 10:30 “I and the Father are one” and in John 14:9 “Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father.”

The Son of God came to earth not to judge us, as some think, but to rescue us from a devil’s hell [John 12:47]. Jesus walked among us that we might know who God is. He took all our iniquities upon Himself [2 Corinthians 5:21]. Jesus’ perfect sinless life qualified Him to die in our place and pay our sin debt in full. As wonderful as the birth of a baby is, what occurred at Bethlehem over 2,000 years ago was far greater. God became man and dwelt among us so we might become reconciled to Him. Hallelujah! That’s the Christmas story. Look for opportunities to share the good news of the resurrected and living Christ. If You are a believer you will be blessed, I promise.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
WHAT THE LAW DEMANDS, GRACE PROVIDES

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

BITS & PIECES

2007-12-15T18:12:00.000-08:00

Gratitude is an offering precious in the sight of God, and it is one that the poorest of us can make and be not poorer but richer for having made it. [A.W. Tozer]

We have short memories in magnifying God’s grace. Every blessing that God confers upon us perishes through our carelessness, if we are not prompt and active in giving thanks. [John Calvin]

We ought to give thanks for all fortune; if it is good, because it is good, if bad because it works in us patience, humility, and the contempt of this world and the hope of our eternal country. [C.S. Lewis]

See that you do not forget what you were before, lest you take for granted the grace and mercy you received from God and forget to express your gratitude each day. [Martin Luther]

Planning for tomorrow is time well spent, worrying about tomorrow is time wasted.

Willing and eager obedience is the hallmark of someone who has truly come to faith in Jesus Christ. They obey, not because they want to earn God’s favor, but because they feel delighted already to have received it.

Bethlehem and Golgotha, the Manger and the Cross, the birth and the death, must always be seen together. [J. Sidlow Baxter]

The Christmas message is that there is hope for a ruined humanity--hope of pardon, hope of peace with God, hope of glory--because at the Father’s will Jesus Christ became poor, and was born in a stable so that 30 years later He might hang on a cross. [J.I. Packer]

Immanuel, God with us in our nature, in our sorrow, in our lifework, in our punishment, in our grave, and now with us, or rather we with Him, in resurrection, ascension, triumph, and Second Advent splendor. [C.H. Spurgeon]

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
WHAT THE LAW DEMANDS, GRACE PROVIDES

THE MINISTRY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

2007-12-05T13:49:00.000-08:00

The moment we trusted Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, we were adopted into God’s family. Sealed and indwelt by the person of the Holy Spirit. The indwelling Spirit, being our guarantee that we belong to our heavenly Father.

The Spirit’s ministry is essential to our ability to carry out God’s work, and do it in a manner pleasing to Him. Transforming us from the inside out to be like Jesus and producing spiritual fruit in our lives are significant areas of His work. He also convicts us of sin, provides us with understanding and wisdom, and gives us the spiritual gifts we need in order to serve God. Only through the Spirit’s divine presence do we receive the equipping and empowerment necessary to accomplish God’s plans. As we serve in a godly manner, we testify to the truth of who Jesus is.

All believers have God’s supernatural power to accomplish the work He has for them to do. Yet not all Christians choose to operate out of the Holy Spirit’s strength. By attempting to live the Christian life in our own strength, we achieve only what we ourselves are able to accomplish. However, when you and I operate in the strength and power of the Spirit, the result is what almighty God can do. The presence of the Holy Spirit is essential to our living a victorious life. You think about that.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
WHAT THE LAW DEMANS, GRACE PROVIDES

THE EXCHANGED LIFE

2007-11-15T18:40:00.000-08:00

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. [Galatians 2:20]

When we embrace the truth that the only way to live the Christian life is to let the Holy Spirit live Christ’s life through us, and make a commitment to God, to surrender all that self wants and seek only what He wants; once we make this exchange, we will experience more of the freedom and joy Jesus promised to His followers. Spiritual growth is a process that requires the transforming work of the Holy Spirit, and our cooperation. So let me ask you this question! How willing are you to grow? You think about that.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
What the law demands, grace provides.

BITS & PIECES

2007-11-07T18:32:00.000-08:00

The genuine can be tested and God uses time, circumstances, and opportunity to test people.

Be as mindful of motives and attitudes as you are of your public behavior.

The benefits of prayer are many, but greatest of all is the joy derived from spending more time with the Lord.

If we recognize that God is in control and guiding our future for good, then we will not stay discouraged for long.

You may not understand the purpose for your trials, but remember that God does nothing without a divine purpose motivated by His matchless unconditional love.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
WHAT THE LAW DEMANDS, GRACE PROVIDES

SPIRITUAL TRANSFORMATION

2007-11-07T18:19:00.000-08:00

If we want to walk in freedom, joy, and faithfulness to Christ, we must slay the dragon of pride. I encourage you to meditate on the following verses from the Book of Proverbs. These principles from God’s Word, linked with the Holy Spirit’s power, will help you slay the dragon of pride. Ask God to change your heart by these truths:

When pride comes, disgrace follows, but with humility comes wisdom. [Proverbs 11:2]

Arrogance leads to nothing but strife, but wisdom is gained by those who take advice. [Proverbs 13:10]

The Lord destroys the house of the proud, but He protects the widow’s territory. [Proverbs 15:25]

Pride comes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall. [Proverbs 16:18]

Better to be lowly of spirit with the humble than to divide plunder with the proud. [Proverbs 16:19]

A person’s pride will humble him, but a humble spirit will gain honor. [Proverbs 29:23]

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
WHAT THE LAW DEMANDS, GRACE PROVIDES

BITS & PIECES

2007-10-15T19:30:00.000-07:00

When our character, conduct, and conversation fail to match who we are in Christ, we hamper our ability to reach others with the gospel.

Wise counsel is always consistent with the Word of God.

Never expect the end of a process, when you are in the middle of the process.

Genuine peace has nothing to do with circumstances. Rather, it’s based on the assurance that God is with us and in total control of our life.

Beware of theology without worship, or doctrine without intimacy and obedience. True knowledge of God always leads to adoration and surrender. Simply put; to know God is to love God!

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
WHAT THE LAW DEMANDS, GRACE PROVIDES

THE PURPOSE OF THE BIBLE

2007-10-15T18:56:00.000-07:00

Divinely inspired, God’s Word helps us to successfully navigate the Christian life. Second Timothy 3:16 explains that “all Scripture is profitable for….”

Teaching. When we read and meditate on God’s Word, we learn more about Him. The Bible teaches how His grace and His justice intersect, and also how He placed His Son Jesus Christ on this earth as a sacrifice.

Reproof. The more we read Scripture, the better we will understand it. The Holy Spirit may then bring to mind areas of our lives that cloud our relationship with God.

Correction. The Holy Spirit wants to do more than simply convict us; He desires to correct sinful areas in our lives.

Training in righteousness. Every time we read the Scripture, God can reveal new truths to us. As we read, pray, and meditate on His Word, we slowly absorb the wisdom and knowledge of God. This is one way God’s Spirit transforms us into the image of Christ. What’s more, the Bible makes us adequate, verse 17 tells us. No matter what circumstance, trial, or tribulation we face, the truth in Scripture will help us face it effectively. And the same verse says that God’s Word equips us for every good work. The Lord doesn’t save us simply to fill a pew in church; His desire is that we spread His truth to others. Digging into God’s Word enables us to proclaim the gospel of Christ with confidence. You think about that.

UNDERSTANDING WHO GOD IS
Jesus told His disciples that not even a sparrow would fall without God’s consent [Matthew 10:29]. He also told Pilate, a prominent Roman official, that he was powerless to order the crucifixion without the Father’s approval [John 19:10-11]. God has always remained one-hundred percent sovereign over everything that happens, from a little bird’s safety to the extraordinary events at the cross. Child of God, peace, joy, and faithfulness to Christ comes with the realization that our Heavenly Father has perfect love, infinite wisdom, and is all powerful. When we understand who God is, we don’t have to worry about what He does.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
WHAT THE LAW DEMANDS, GRACE PROVIDES

The Price For Rejecting God.

2007-09-15T17:52:00.000-07:00

Many people believe they will go to heaven because they tried to live a good life. Here is the simple truth. Those who receive Jesus Christ's gift of salvation will spend eternity with God, whereas those who refuse the gift will not. The price for rejecting Christ is separation from God for all eternity.

When a person becomes a believer, he recognizes that he is not good enough in himself to deserve anything from God. Man's sinful nature, which is characterized by rebellion against God, has alienated him from his Creator. No matter how hard a person tries, he cannot avoid sinning again, because he still has his old sin nature. However at the moment of salvation, Christ forgives all his sins, declares him no longer guilty, and gives him a brand-new nature.

Therefore, if a person rejects the truth that salvation comes only through the atoning death of Jesus Christ, he has nowhere else to turn. His good works are not enough to get him into heaven, a place of sinless perfection, because his transgressions remain unforgiven. The penalty for sin is death; [Separation from God] if Christ's substitutionary sacrifice is rejected, the guilty party must pay the price himself.

These words are not meant to scare you into receiving salvation; they are a warning about what the future holds if you reject the Lord Jesus Christ. God has set before you a choice between eternal life and death: "Choose life in order that you may live....by loving the Lord your God, by obeying His voice, and by holding fast to Him" [Deuteronomy 30:19-20].

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ASSURANCE OF OUR SALVATION

2007-08-15T18:30:00.000-07:00

The salvation God provided at the cross leaves no room for doubt. If you have received Christ as your personal Savior, then the Father wants you to be one-hundred percent sure you are saved, and secure in Him. Let me give you a three-fold test you can apply to your understanding of salvation.

First, ask yourself, "What does the Word of God say?" The Bible's teaching about salvation is clear, it leaves no room for uncertainty. Acts 16:31 says it well: "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved." That's it. No ifs, ands, or buts, it doesn't say maybe, or believe plus....; it just simply says, "believe."

Second, ask yourself, "What is the witness of the Spirit?" Romans 8:16 teaches that " The Spirit Himself testifies that we are children of God." When we by faith receive Jesus as Lord, the Father sets His Holy Spirit within us. This ever-present, indwelling Spirit is the one who enables us to relate to and communicate with God. The eternal witness inside us continually testifies that we are saved....regardless of how our feelings about salvation ebb and flow.

Third, ask yourself, "What is the desire of my heart?" When the Spirit takes up residency within the human heart, changes occur. A yearning for intimacy with the Lord and a sensitivity to His will start to develop. This doesn't mean that we will never sin, but it does demonstrate our born-again spirit reaching out for the Almighty. May I say, you can know that you are saved.

If you have made a commitment to trust Jesus Christ and Him alone, as your Lord and Savior, then rejoice today as a saved and secure child of the King. Our salvation is not a hope so salvation, it is a know so salvation. You think about that.

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THE STRUGGLE WITH THE FLESH

2007-07-15T17:53:00.000-07:00

When the word flesh appears in the New Testament, it usually refers to our fallen nature within us, that wants to indulge in self-gratification. It is the pattern of thinking and conduct that opposes obedience to God.

When people say, "He's just doing what comes naturally," they are describing someone living in the flesh. Our natural impulses are geared, not toward pleasing the Lord, but toward personal comfort and pleasure. That means doing whatever it takes to satisfy one's own personal lust. People go to great lengths to fill the emptiness within, even participating in the acts of sexual immorality, contention, idolatry, and carousing.....see Galatians 5:16-26. But nothing can truly appease the flesh, which always selfishly wants more.

When an unbeliever acts out of self-interest, believers cannot say he should know better. There is no Holy Spirit inside him to sound the alarm, when he is wrong, or to enable him to act in a righteous way. But the Christian has no such excuse, since God's Spirit dwells within, prompting appropriate behavior and thoughts. However the tug of the flesh remains with the believer, since we do not shed our humanity until we reach heaven. So we still have the capacity to give in to sinful inclinations and sow corruption into our life.

To protect ourselves from fleshly desires, we must place complete trust in the Holy Spirit. Only He can point out sinful actions, thoughts, and attitudes. What's more, He can fill us with the desire to obey God's Word, and enable us to make right choices. You think about that.

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THE DANGER OF A HARDENING HEART

2007-06-15T18:45:00.000-07:00

So, as the Holy Spirit says: "Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion, during the time of testing in the desert, where your fathers tested and tried me and for forty years saw what I did. That is why I was angry with that generation, and I said, 'There hearts are always going astray, and they have not known my ways.' So I declared on oath in my anger, 'They shall never enter my rest.' " [Hebrews 3:7-11]

The Hebrews who left Egypt had proof of God's existence and commitment to them. Yet, when the time came for them to claim their promised land, they hardened their hearts against the Lord and refused to believe He would give them victory over the people living in Canaan. So they rebelled, resisting Joshua and Caleb's pleas and coming up with justifications for their unbelief. Because of their rebellion, God disciplined them with forty years of wandering in the desert.

May I say, the way to a hardened heart is a gradual process. It begins with unbelief; that is, hearing but not accepting all or part of God's Word as true. Instead, a person rebels, choosing to manage his or her own affairs without the Lord's direction, which involves ignoring God's Word, ignoring the conscience, and justifying ungodly behavior. Eventually, the heart becomes so calcified that the individual is no longer affected by the whisper of God's Spirit.

Stubbornly persisting in choosing our own way is dangerous. Not only does the Lord discipline those who rebel against Him; He also withholds blessings. If we take seriously God's warning not to harden ourselves against Him, then we must always be obedient. Over time as our heart grows more receptive to His promptings, we will find that we are unable to make a wrong move without being convicted by the Spirit. You think about that.

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THE UNPARDONABLE SIN

2007-05-15T18:24:00.000-07:00

CAN I COMMIT THE UNPARDONABLE SIN?

And so I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. (Matthew 12:31)

Read verse 22 through verse 32 of Matthew 12 for the context. Now to answer the question. No one today can commit the unpardonable sin. According to the Bible, the only sin God will not pardon is blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, (watch this) Committed by the Pharisees (see context). Though the Jewish religious leaders were shown compelling evidence that Jesus was God's Son, they sought to undermine Him in hopes of maintaining their own prestige. After witnessing Christ's miracles, the Pharisees blasphemed by attributing His supernatural power to Satan. Jesus' response to their sin was a warning that whoever spoke this way against the Holy Spirit would not be forgiven.

Since people living now do not have the undeniable physical presence of Jesus Christ in the world, they can't recreate the Pharisees' sinful event. However, it is possible today to end-up in an unpardonable state. This happens when a person rejects the Holy Spirit's call to salvation and holy living, and then dies in a condition of unbelief.

Here are the stages leading to an unpardonable state. An unbeliever chooses to sin, even though he knows what he is doing is wrong. He resists the Holy Spirit's gentle prompts towards conviction and salvation, and over many years hardens his heart against God. A time comes when the Holy Spirit makes no impression, and any desire for the Lord has dried up. There isn't a sermon or song able to move him. His heart is harden to the gospel message.

No sin can separate you from God's love. Only a conscious decision to reject the Lord can result in you spending an eternity apart from God in a devil's hell. Friend if you are not saved, I beg you please do not wait another minute to receive His offer of salvation.

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PRAYING ON THE ARMOR OF GOD

2007-04-15T11:18:00.000-07:00

To prepare yourself for each day's spiritual battle, make this prayer, or one like it, part of your morning routine:

Dear Heavenly Father. I know that as I get out of bed today, I'm stepping onto a battlefield. But I also know You have given me everything I need to stand firm against attack. So in the power of Your Holy Spirit, I put on the armor You have provided:

First, I place the helmet of salvation on my head. Protect my mind and imagination. Guard my eyes, that no sin would creep in. Focus my thoughts steadily on the things that please You. Second, let the breastplate of righteousness keep my heart and emotions safe. Third, let me not be governed by my feelings, but by truth. Wrap Your Word around the very core of my being like a belt, and safeguard me from error. Fourth, Dear Lord as I put on the sandals of peace to guide my steps. Plant my feet in Your truth, and empower me to stand firm against attack.

Next I take up the shield of faith. Protect me from the fiery arrows of the Enemy, and create a wall of opposition to the Devil's schemes. And finally, I take up the sword of the Spirit....Your Word. Set in my heart and mind in a fresh and exciting way, Your Word, so I will always be ready to deflect attacks and to pierce hearts with Your truth.

I know that I will face assaults today, Lord, but You have empowered me to stand firm. Give me strength for the battle today. In Jesus Name amen.

Child of God, without your God-given spiritual weaponry, you're as vulnerable as a soldier who shows up for battle wearing only a bathing suit. Get dressed for success! "for the battle is the Lord's"

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HOW OBEDIENCE RELATES TO LOVE

2007-03-15T18:02:00.000-07:00

The night before Jesus' crucifixion, He reminded His disciples of the connection between love and obedience. Jesus said "He who has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me" (John 14:21). In God's mind loving and obeying Him are inseparable. May I say we are to have the same mindset.

Question! what commands are we to obey? Jesus said that the Law and the Prophets are summed up in two commandments: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind," and "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:37,39). Through consistent study of the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit will reveal how to live out these commands, and provide us with the power to obey. Every time we submit to the Spirit's leading, we are saying "I love you" to God. When we let go of selfish attitudes and put someone else first, when we show forgiveness instead of anger, when we demonstrate a thankful heart in the midst of hard circumstances, we express love for our Lord. But if we live in conscious, deliberate disobedience to Him, Jesus says we do not love Him. You thank about that.

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MAKING AN IMPACT

2007-02-15T18:33:00.000-08:00

You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men.

You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven. [Matthew 5:13-16]

God desires for all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth (1 Timothy 2:4). It is God's will for each of us to live in such a way, that our life would be a godly influence on others. Note in the in text above, Jesus used to very distinct words....salt and light...to illustrate our mission.

Salt is an additive used for flavoring and preserving. Its presence penetrates and spreads throughout any food on which it is sprinkled, and makes a significant difference in flavor. Believers are to function the same way as salt...by spreading the gospel of Christ as we interact with others. Notice also in the text that Jesus warns the saltiness of our life will decrease if we practice ungodly habits and attitudes. Child of God chronic patterns of sin will render us both tasteless and ineffective.

Jesus also calls us to be light, just as He was (John 1:4,9). Light drives out darkness, reveals what is present, illuminates the path, and warns of danger. We are to do the same by reflecting the Savior's presence through our conversation and conduct. May I say just as soot on a glass lantern diminishes its light, sin's presence decreases the validity of our testimony and reduces our influence. The more sin there is in our life, the less divine light we will reflect. You think about that.

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A DECLARATION OF LOVE

2007-01-15T18:51:00.000-08:00

Henry Morehouse began preaching at the age of sixteen. He always began his sermons with the same scripture, John 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." He recited this same verse every time he came to the pulpit. Yet he never ran out of things to say.

We can learn a great deal from this preacher. We're always seeking the newest teaching, movement, or fad in everything. We become impatient if we hear the same thing repeated over and over again. We feel that we have to grow beyond such a basic teaching as John 3:16. But, God's Word doesn't say to grow beyond the knowledge of salvation, it says to grow in the knowledge of salvation. You'll never know anything better, higher, or deeper than the love declared for you in that verse. So, distance yourself from the things that complicate your life and your relationship with God and get back to the simplicity of your first love, Jesus Christ. Get back to that simple verse that is as life-changing today as it was the day it first changed your life. You think about that.

God's Sovereignty & Salvation

2006-12-25T16:57:00.000-08:00

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me....... Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father....." (John 14:6; 9b)

God's sovereignty extends over all things. He is omnipotent---all powerful, no plan of His can be stopped. He is omniscient---all knowing, so nothing is hidden from His sight. And He is omnipresent---which means that all things exist in His presence. Everything in both the natural and spiritual realms, including our salvation are under His complete control.

Scripture describes mankind as having hearts that are deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9), minds that suppress the truth (Romans 1:18-19), and wills that have turned away from God. (Isaiah 53:6) The Lord however, is continually seeking us. He has issued a universal call inviting everyone to freely come to Him. (John 3:16) He has said, "it isn't His will that any should perish (2Peter 3:9), nor does He take pleasure in the death of the wicked. (Ezekiel 33:11) And the Lord desires that all come to a knowledge of the truth, meaning, that there is only one God manifested in three persons, that sin separates us from Him, and only faith in Jesus Christ reconciles us to Him. (1Timothy 2:4-6)

Scripture teaches also, that none of us seek after God (Romans 3:11); so there is no way we can take credit for our salvation. The desire to know Him comes from the Holy Spirit's work of convicting hearts of sinfulness and providing the faith to believe in Jesus as Savior and Lord. (Ephesians 2:8) May I say, salvation is all of God from start to finish. Before the foundations of the world, God chose a people for Himself from among the ungodly. (Ephesians 1:11; Romans 4:5) Friend ask the Holy Spirit to help you grasp the awesomeness and immensity of divine grace, love, and mercy. May God bless you.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

An Astronomer's Model

2006-12-05T18:30:00.000-08:00

I read a story not long ago about a man named Johannes Kepler, who was a German astronomer living in the 16th century. Kepler had a friend who did not believe in God, his friend believed that the universe came into existence by itself. So, Kepler made a model of the sun with the planets revolving around it to prove his point. His friend thought the model was just beautiful, and wanted to know if Kepler had made it or if not, then who did? Kepler answered, "No one made it, it made itself." His friend replied, "Nonsense. Tell me who made it." Kepler then said, "Friend, you say this model could not make itself. It is but a weak imitation of this great universe, which you believe did make itself.

May I say, no rational person would have believed that Kepler's model could have made itself. Yet today we find many scientists believe exactly that... that the universe and mankind came into existence by accident. Dear friend the universe was not an accident and neither are you or your life. Your life has meaning. You are here because God created you, and therefore, your life has great reason and purpose behind it, and ahead of it. For the King of the Universe said, "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11) You think about that.

A Body Needs To Know

2006-11-25T18:45:00.000-08:00

Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body. (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

Many people say they have the right and freedom to do whatever they want with their own body. This is a lie from the pit of hell and smells like smoke. People who think they are free to do as they please, are in fact enslaved by their own lust.

May I say child of God, Christ's death freed us from sin. The Holy Spirit seals, fills, and lives in us; therefore our body belongs to God. If we truly love God we will not violate His standards for living, and when we do, we will repent and seek His forgiveness, which He has promised to give. (1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness). May God richly bless you.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD

IN NONESSENTIALS! "LIBERTY"

2006-11-05T18:32:00.000-08:00

Accept him whose faith is weak, without passing judgment on disputable matters. ROMANS 14:1

We learn from this verse that, we are to receive the weaker brother in a cordial and gracious way, not with a spirit of critical analysis or an attitude of superiority. Paul says we are not to quarrel about issues that are matters of opinion. Differences in nonessentials should not be feared or avoided, but accepted and handled with love.

May I say, there are many questionable areas in the Christian life (gray areas) where there is no specific command from God's Word to guide us. For example; A believer may choose to be a vegetarian because he or she is of the opinion that red meat could harm the body, which is the temple of the Holy Spirit. Another believer may not share this view, believing the protein from red meat, within moderation, is necessary to maintain sound physical health, which would also glorify God. Again one believer might abstain from drinking alcohol, and another see nothing wrong with drinking in moderation. Who's right? Grace says there is liberty to do either!

Child of God, if you were to ask six believers to list 10 things they deem to be unacceptable Christian conduct, not directly addressed in God's Word, I believe you will find each list would differ dramatically. What one believer would find acceptable another would find unacceptable, which is fine, as long as they don't impose their convictions on another brother or sister in Christ. The text teaches; we are to respect one another's convictions even though they may not be the same as our own.

Sadly, many believers establish unspoken rules to measure whether or not others are spiritual. But spirituality is not trying to conform to someone's list of do's and don'ts. This is nothing more than a form of legalism! The spiritually-minded person is a person who desires for his or her life to be conformed to the image of Christ by the inward working of the Holy Spirit. When we are walking in the fullness of the Spirit our attitudes and responses will always be in line with the Word of God. We will consistently esteem others better than ourselves. We will value our freedom in Christ, yet be very careful never to misuse it. You think about that.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD

Obey & Leave The Consequences To God

2006-10-25T18:37:00.000-07:00

May I say, we are to obey God and leave all the consequences to Him. ["Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine." EXODUS 19:5] What an amazing thing to be called the "special treasure" of God! Obedience brings blessing, and far more blessing than we can imagine. The Bible says in Genesis 15 and 17, that God made a covenant with Abraham, promising to make his descendants into a great nation. Here that promise is being realized as God restates His agreement with the Israelite nation, the descendants of Abraham.

In verse eight of the text above; the people promised to obey Him. But the good intentions of the people quickly wore off, and they soon were back living in disobedience. The question for today child of God is this; When you placed your trust in Christ and received Him as your Lord and Savior, did you not at that time commit your heart to Him? Did you not commit to follow Him no mater what? The bottom line for you and me is this; are we holding up to our end of the bargain? You think about that, and I will to.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD

The Law Of Sowing

2006-10-05T18:27:00.000-07:00

You reap what you sow, more than you sow, and latter than you sow. [ "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will reap." GALATIANS 6:7] This principle applies to everyone, both Christians and non-Christians alike. This principle is irrevocable; there is no escape, either for the believer or for the unbeliever. It is a law of life. May I say, every action has results. If you sow to please self, you'll reap a crop of sorrow and evil. If you sow to please God, you'll reap joy and everlasting life. The fact that we reap what we sow is good news for those who sow good habits, but a frightening thought for those currently involved in ungodly activities. We cannot sow crabgrass and expect to reap pineapples. We cannot sow disobedience to God and expect to reap His blessing. What we sow we reap. Let us not deceive ourselves; we will reap the harvest of our lives. What kind of seeds are you sowing friend?

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD

TO THE END OF THE EARTH

2006-09-25T14:34:00.000-07:00

"But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." (Acts 1:8)

The book of Acts records the spread of the gospel of Jesus Christ, from the city of Jerusalem to the whole province of Judea, and Samaria, and ultimately through out the Roman Empire and beyond. These first-century Christians were sold out for the cause of Christ. They transformed their world, as their lives became living epistles of the good news of Jesus Christ.

May I say, God has called us to a life style of evangelism, in which we build relationships with non-Christians. These friendships in turn become natural bridges for communicating the gospel. Child of God take a close look at Colossians 4:2-6 to learn how to become more effective as an instrument of the Holy Spirit, in bringing others to Christ. And remember! your task is not to convince people, but to testify of the truth of the Gospel. May God bless you.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
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God's Highest Priority

2006-09-10T14:20:00.000-07:00

Our intimacy with God...His highest priority for our lives...determines the impact of our lives. [Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth." GENESIS 1:26] When God created us, He made us like Himself, therefore we have the capacity for close, personal fellowship with Him.

Knowing that we were created in God's image gives us a sense of self-worth. Human worth is not based on possessions, achievements, physical attractiveness, or public acclaim, no! it's based on being made in God's image. To look down on someone is to criticize what God has made and the abilities He has given that person. May I say, that in Genesis 1:31 God saw all that He had made, and it was very good. Child of God you are part of God's creation, and He is pleased with how He made you. If at times you feel worthless or of no value, remember that you are valuable to God and that He created you for a reason. Don't let Satan steal that truth from you. May God bless you.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
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JESUS IS INDEED GOD

2006-08-25T13:44:00.000-07:00

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. (John 1:1-5)

Jesus is the eternal and living Word. Fully God and fully man, the God man. The Bible teaches that in Christ, God personally revealed Himself in human flesh. Note! to see Him is to see God (John 12:45; 14:9)-to receive Him is to receive God (Mark 9:37)-to know Him is to know God (John 8:19)-to honor Him is to honor God (John 5:23)-and to reject Him is to reject God (Luke 10:16). May I say, He is the vine, the source of life; we as believers are the branches, the channels of His life so to speak.

The Christian life is Jesus, living His life in and through us as we walk in dependence upon Him. It is only as we draw our life from Him that we bear lasting fruit. "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me" (Galatians 2:20). Child of God, to what extent are you looking to Jesus as the true source of your security, significance, and fulfillment? You think about that.

Words of encouragement
THE BEREAN NOTEPAD

A LOOK AT GENUINE FAITH

2006-08-10T18:21:00.000-07:00

In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. (James 2:17)

As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead. (James 2:26)

James says in his epistle that "faith without works is dead." May I say that genuine faith inspires godly action. True faith will always manifest itself in works of faith, otherwise it is not real faith at all. Note! if you will the character of real faith....(1) Genuine faith endures trials. Trials are bound to come, but real faith will face them head-on and develop endurance....(2) Genuine faith understands temptations, and will never consent to our lust and thereby slide into sin....(3) Genuine faith harbors no prejudice, faith and favoritism cannot coexist....(4) Genuine faith has the power to control the tongue. this small but powerful part of the body must be held in check, and only grace working through faith, can accomplish it....(5) Genuine faith acts wisely. It gives us the ability to choose heavenly wisdom that brings life and to reject earthly wisdom that brings death....(6) Genuine faith produces separation from the world and submission to Christ. It gives us the ability to resist the devil and draw near to God....(7) Finally, genuine faith waits patiently for the return of the Lord. Troubles and trials may cause us grief, faith in the return of Christ stifles our complaining. Child of God, we need to give praise to God, who is the author and finisher of our faith, for He is faithful even when we are not. You think about that.

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Building Confidence

2006-07-25T19:13:00.000-07:00

Such confidence as this is ours through Christ before God. Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God. He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant---not of the letter but the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life. (2 Corinthians 3:4-6)

Confidently trusting the Lord is the only way to go. When our reliance is on God, we experience spiritual growth, personal achievement, peace, freedom, and joy. Our confidence in God is built through a process; meditating on His Word, knowing who He is, and drawing near to Him through prayer. Note! we can lose our confidence in Him by focusing on circumstance rather than Jesus; by allowing unconfessed sin in our life; and by heeding worldly advice.

Child of God as confident follows of Christ; it is not who we are, what we believe about ourselves, or what strengths and abilities we have that matter, but it is God's presence, His provision, and power that counts. My question is; how much do we trust Him? Is our confidence Christ-centered or self-centered? May I say developing a wholehearted trust and reliance on Jesus is what brings about Christ-centered confidence. You thank about that.

I can do everything through Him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:13) Union with the living exalted Christ is the secret of being content and the source of our confidence, and abiding strength. Praise His Holy Name, amen.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
Touching lives with the truth of God's Word

HOPE OF GLORY

2006-07-10T18:57:00.000-07:00

"We exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint." [Romans 5:2-5]

The security that every believer has in his or her salvation is founded on the fact that God is the author of their salvation, every aspect of it is solely the work of God, and therefore cannot be lost. The final work of God's great salvation is the ultimate glorification of every Christian: "Whom God foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the first born among many brethren; and whom He predestined, these He also called; and whom He called, these He also justified; and whom He justified, these He also glorified" [Romans 8:29-30].

May I say, that Scripture teaches that salvation is anchored in the past because Christ made peace with God at Calvary for our sins, that it is anchored in the present because Christ continually intercedes for every believer and establishes our standing in grace. Note that in verses 2 through 5 Paul proclaims, salvation is also anchored in the future because God promises His children that one day they will be clothed with the glory of His Son.

The Greek word for "exult" in Romans 5:2 refers to jubilation and rejoicing. Every believer ought to rejoice in the future rather than fearing it, because Jesus Christ has secured our hope, in fact Christ is the guarantee of our hope because He Himself is our hope (1 Tim. 1:1). Don't miss what Paul says in Romans 5:3-5; Paul states in these verses, that our afflictions for Christ's sake produce increasing levels of spiritual maturity. That means we can rejoice in tribulations that come upon us because of our relationship to Christ. Child of God as you continue to pursue holiness, the more you will be persecuted and troubled, but the greater will be your hope as you see God sustain you by His all powerful grace. You think about that.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
The teaching ministry of Mel Parker

MORE THAN CONQUERORS

2006-06-25T18:46:00.000-07:00

Romans 8:31-35, 37-39

What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?

Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect?

It is God that justifieth.

Who is he that condemneth?

It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us. 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.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
The Bible teaching ministry of Mel Parker.

Why do people not respond to the gospel?

2006-06-10T18:21:00.000-07:00

Paul said "if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing" (2 Corinthians 4:3). May I say the problem was not with the message or the messenger, but with the hearers headed for hell. The preacher cannot persuade people to believe; only God can do that.

Paul also says Satan has blinded the minds of the unbeliever (verse 4). Satan blinds men to the truth of God's Word through the world system he has created. The majority of people have the mind-set that is expressed by this world system. Without a godly influence, man left to himself will follow that system, which panders to the depravity of humankind and deepens their moral darkness.

"For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus" (verse 5). False teachers accused Paul of preaching for his own benefit, yet they were the ones guilty of doing so. Paul never promoted himself, but always preached Christ Jesus as Lord. Notice verse 6, "For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God". The same God who created physical light in the universe must create supernatural light in the soul of the unbeliever before that person can respond to the gospel. Child of God we are to be faithful, to proclaim the gospel of Christ, and leave the results to God. You think about that.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
Touching lives with the truth of God's Word

OUR LIBERTY IN CHRIST

2006-05-25T18:46:00.000-07:00

God's purpose with regard to the liberty of the believer in Christ is summed up in Galatians 5:13. "For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

Here is an admonition so simple that no believer can misunderstand it, so comprehensive, that it covers the whole range of the believer's behavior toward his fellow brothers and sisters in the Body of Christ.

God intended that the Christian life should be dynamic, that we should sit under the teaching of the Word of God, understand and apply its meaning and implications, and serve God and fellow believers. If we would stop and consider the fact that God has entrusted us with liberty, and freedom as full grown sons, while yet beset by temptation and sin. If we would contemplate the infinite love and the infinite cost involved in bestowing this liberty upon us. If we would stop and reflect on the truth that this liberty and freedom was given to us in Christ Jesus; (as those who have been crucified, buried and raised with Him, to walk in newness of life)--if we would take the time to consider all of this, it becomes evident that the only right use of liberty is as the Scripture says; "but through love serve one another."

Child of God, it is important to remember that we are to exercise our liberty in a lifestyle of usefulness for others, to stand fast in our God given liberty, and to heed the exhortation: Take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to them that are weak (1 Corinthians 8:9).

Paul reminded the Corinthians in his letter to them that he had the right as an apostle to live well and to expect them to care for his needs so that he might "forbear working." He reminded them that they owed him their financial support (1 Corinthians 9:1-14). But he also wrote to these same Corinthians "Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ....For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more" (1 Corinthians 9:12-19).

Referring again to the use of his liberty in Christ, Paul says: "All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not. Let no man seek his own, but every man another's wealth" (1 Corinthians 10:23-24). We have been set at liberty, not that we might indulge in the gratification of our own desires, but that we might serve others. Scripture says: "it is more blessed to give than to receive."

Thank God, we have been called unto liberty. Through Christ we can breathe the air of freedom, but to fully enjoy this freedom we must take care not to use it as an occasion to serve self, but rather as the means by which, in love, we may serve one another. You thank about that.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD

The Believer's Relationship With The Holy Spirit

2006-05-10T18:35:00.000-07:00

And they were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. Acts 2:4

The Holy Spirit appeared on the day of Pentecost, accompanied by extraordinary manifestations of His presence. It is important to understand that these manifestations were "sign" oriented, not "character" oriented. The text does not say that after being filled with the Holy Spirit, they manifested great patience, kindness, gentleness, ect. (i.e. the fruit of the Spirit). Rather, it says they immediately began speaking in other tongues. May I say, that is how the unbelievers who heard them knew that something supernatural had taken place.

After the Book of Acts, the whole concept of being filled with the Spirit drops out of sight, except for one mention in Ephesians 5:18. In that passage, Paul is talking about surrendering to the influence of the Spirit, not to the indwelling ministry of the Holy Spirit. So what am I saying? Just this...we need not ask God to fill us with the Spirit, because the Holy Spirit indwells all believers in Christ. Paul wrote, "For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body...whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free...and have all been made to drink into one Spirit" (1 Cor. 12:13). The apostle John wrote, "By this we know that we abide in Him and He in us, because He has given us His Spirit" (1 John 4:13). Christian believers everywhere are filled with the Spirit.

Child of God, the presence of the Holy Spirit is a source of great assurance. In fact, "if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he is not His" (Romans 8:9). We know we belong to Christ because His Spirit dwells in us. You think about that.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD

A Godly Influence

2006-04-25T18:54:00.000-07:00

Being a godly influence means helping others understand who Jesus is, it means helping them grow in the Word, and encouraging them to make God honoring choices. To be such a person, we must have strong conviction, solid commitment, and steady courage.

In order to have a godly impact on others, we must first be convinced that Scripture is true; that the Bible is the inspired, and infallible Word of God. That there is absolutely no mistakes to be found in the Bible. That so-called discrepancies are just things we do not understand yet. (2 Timothy 3:16) Second the true God, the God of the Bible, is triune in nature; that is, God is Three-in-One. God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit, and each member is fully divine. (Matthew 28:19) Third eternal life is received only through faith in Christ alone--there is no other way. (John 14:6) Salvation cannot be earned, even by good works. (Ephesians 2:8-10) And fourth Jesus will one day return for those who belong to Him, and He will take them with Him to heaven. (John 14:2-3) But unbelievers will remain under divine wrath. John 3:36)

A good Old Testament example of conviction, commitment, and courage is Daniel. He knew the biblical prohibition against eating meat offered to idols. As a captive in Babylon, he faced a dilemma. Since his meals were first offered to idols, he had to decide whether to obey God's law and risk punishment from men, or adopt Babylonian ways and displease the Lord. Daniel believed, and obeyed what the Scriptures said, and God granted him favor. Our Father is also pleased with us when we trust in His Word. Child of God how firm are your convictions? You need firm convictions to be a godly influence. You think about that.

The Centrality Of The Resurrection

2006-04-15T17:55:00.000-07:00

Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. (Matthew 28:5-6)

May I say the Christian faith stands or falls on the resurrection. Without the resurrection, our faith would just be a lot of wishful thinking, no better than human philosophies and speculative religions. Paul knew that without the resurrection our salvation could not have been possible. Paul was also convinced that the truth of the resurrection must be believed or else salvation cannot be received: if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved (Romans 10:9).

In spite of many challenges from skepticism, persecution, heresy, and unfaithfulness, the church through out the centuries has continued to testify to the reality of Christ's resurrection. Paul and the other apostles, and every leader in the early church continually preached Christ's resurrection. Actually, because the church gathers on Sunday, the Lord's day, the first day of the week (when Jesus rose), we are reminded of His resurrection every week.

We as believers should be so captivated by the significance of the resurrection of Christ, that our lives would manifest a solid witness to the power of the gospel of the risen Christ. Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and life. He who believes in me will never die" (John 11:25). Thank God, we have a living hope, and a living Savior. Halleluiah! to the Lamb of God, praise His holy Name, for He is worthy of our worship and praise. Can you say amen to that?

Remember child of God; who loves you unconditionally, who died on a cruel cross and rose the third day that you might have everlasting life. Give Him thanks right now and tell Him how much you love Him. Prove your love by seeking to obey His will for your life. You will be blessed for it. That's God's promise to you from His Word. You think about that.
HAPPY EASTER 2006....

THE STORY OF THE ROOSTER

2006-04-01T18:42:00.000-08:00

The story is told of a rooster who arose early every morning of his life to crow. And every morning shortly thereafter, the sun would rise.

As the months and years went by, the animals of the barnyard said, “Thank you for bringing the sun up every day. We’re not worthy.” But one day, not feeling well, the rooster overslept. Yet the sun came up anyway.

“You fraud!” the animals said to the sleepy rooster. “You weren’t even out here today. Yet the sun came up anyway.”

Although at first, the rooster was embarrassed and depressed, he was eventually relieved when he realized that, because he didn’t bring the sun up, the world didn’t depend on him.

So, too, there comes a point in a believer’s life when we realize our Christian walk isn’t dependent upon us, but solely upon Jesus. May I say, happy is the day when we truly understand that our relationship with the Father has nothing to do with our attempts at being a spiritual rooster bringing the sun up. Instead, it has everything to do with admitting we would be in the dark were it not for the Son shining upon us all the days of our life.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
God answers prayer.

The Potter's Wheel

2006-03-25T18:31:00.000-08:00

Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for noble purposes and some for common use? (Romans 9:21)

You turn things upside down, as if the potter were though to be like the clay! Shall what is formed say to him who formed it, He did not make me? Can the pot say of the potter, He knows nothing? (Isaiah 29:16)

Do you ever feel you're not going anywhere, that you're going around in one big circle, doing the same things over and over again? You don't seem to be going anywhere but you still feel pressure! Consider this; The above Scripture says that God is the potter and we are the clay. Question: How does a potter mold clay? He puts it on a wheel and then spins it around applying pressure with his hands. Through the pressure, the lump of clay is transformed into a beautiful vessel.

So when you feel like you're going around in a circle, remember the potter's wheel. When you go through trials and suffering, and you feel the pressure, don't get discouraged. It's there to change you. Let the circumstance and pressure mold you into His image. Child of God, the purpose of your life is not good times or bad times-- but to be molded into His image. It's the difference between being beautiful and just being a lump of clay. You think about that.

But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ. For He Himself is our peace,....(Ephesians 2:13-14a)

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
A ministry of exhortation.

BE FILLED

2006-03-15T09:04:00.000-08:00

Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord, giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear of God. (Ephesians 5:17-21)

Paul tells us in this passage that true communion with God comes from being filled with the Holy Spirit. Note! Paul is not speaking about the Holy Spirit's indwelling or the baptism by Christ with the Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:9; 1Cor. 12:13), because every believer is indwelt and baptized by the Spirit at the time of salvation. Paul is saying that believers should live continually under the influence of the Spirit; by obeying the Word of God, pursuing pure lives, confessing all known sin, dying to self, surrendering to God's will, and depending on His power in all things. May I say being filled with the Spirit is living in conscious presence of the Lord Jesus Christ, letting His mind, through the Word, dominate everything that is thought of and done. Being filled with the Spirit is the same as walking in the Spirit. The principle! "complete surrender of self to the Spirit's control." The results! "joy unspeakable". You think about that.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
A ministry of exhortation

Self-righteousness; it's everywhere

2006-03-01T10:49:00.000-08:00

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God you will not despise.. (Psalm 51:17).

Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee, and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood up and prayed about himself: God I thank you that I am not like other men--robbers, evildoers, adulterers--or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get. But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, God, have mercy on me, a sinner. I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted (Luke 18:10-14).

Self-righteousness is the conviction that one is better than others--morally, spiritually, and theologically. It is the spurious view that one is not like other people. Self-righteous people always think they speak as outsiders of the human race.

Five facts you need to know about self-righteousness: (1) It's subtle; you don't know it when you've got it. (2) It's incremental; It never starts out as self-righteousness but as something positive and good. (3) It's addictive; people love to point a critical finger at the mistakes of others, and brag about themselves. (4) It's indiscriminate; once you see it, it's everywhere and not just in religious folks. And (5) It's terribly destructive.

Note! The tax collector did not think of himself as one sinner among many, but as the sinner who was unworthy of anything from God. Jesus said the tax collector went home justified. That means he received forgiveness, and redemption. May I say, the Lord Jesus reminds us in this parable, that it is a spirit of repentance, and self-humiliation, not a critical or judgmental spirit that is acceptable to God.

Have you ever wondered child of God, why most of our evangelistic efforts are ineffective? Could it be that un-believers see us as angry, condemning, uptight, judgmental, self-righteous twits. I believe that the reasons we can't forgive and why they are divisions among us, is because of the sin of self-righteousness. And this after God tells us in His Word; there is none righteous, not even one (Romans 3:10) and that all our righteous acts are like filthy rags (Isaiah 64:6).

Self-righteousness destroys relationships, and makes genuine love impossible. It makes it impossible to love those who aren't Christians and impossible to love those who are. God will forgive and restore the believer who has been over taken by a judgmental spirit. If that believer will acknowledge his sin and ask the Lord for the grace to repent. O thank God for His all sufficient grace.

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with you. Amen.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
Biblical principles for successful living.

As Events Unfold

2006-02-15T17:55:00.000-08:00

Then the man bowed down his head and worshipped the Lord. (Genesis 24:26)

In Genesis 24, Abraham sent his servant to find a wife for Isaac. After asking God for help, the servant set out on his journey to find a wife for Abraham's son. When it became obvious that God was answering his prayer and leading him to the right girl, he didn't wait for the final outcome, he thanked God as the events unfolded.

May I say, our lives are constantly in process, and our prayers are always in the process of being answered, according to the Lord's will and time table. Note! not our will or time table but His. So why wait to thank God? If you have started praying over a concern, pray with thanksgiving. If you begin to wonder why God delays His answer, thank Him for His timing. If you sense Him answering your prayers, thank Him for the first fruits of His grace. And when the answer is fully apparent, rejoice in His goodness and thank Him for His providence and provision.

E. M. Bonds said, "Giving thanks is the very life of prayer. It is its fragrance and music, its poetry and its crown." Are you praying with thanksgiving, when making your request known to Him? Are you praising Him while praying? Are you believing Him for answered prayer? Is your heart fully devoted to Him alone? You think about that child of God, I know that I need to think about it as well. "Neither prayer, nor praise, nor the hearing of the Word will be pleasant or profitable to persons who have left their hearts behind them." (C. H. Spurgeon)

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
It's not what you do...it's who you are in Christ.

The Gospel of Freedom

2006-02-01T18:24:00.000-08:00

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. I do not set aside the grace of God, for if righteousness could be gained through the law, Christ died for nothing! (Galatians 2:20-21)

Jesus does more than simply save people from the penalty of past, present, and future sins; He frees men and women from sin's power every day. When Christ died on the cross, God saw each believer crucified with Him so that sin's power was broken. May I say the focus of the Christian faith is not dying, but living. Note! Because we have been crucified with Christ, we have also been raised with Him (Romans 6:5). This means we can say no to those things that enslave others. Most unbelievers are trying to live smarter, find a purpose, and be happy. On the other hand, believers have the secret of life from Jesus Himself: "Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me...and you will find rest for your souls" (Matthew 11:29). Child of God, this is too big a secret to keep quite. Open your Bible and pray that God would reveal a truth you can share with someone today. The Gospel message we are called to declare frees the enslaved and teaches victorious living. Let us be faithful to our call. Amen.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
Biblical principles for successful living.

WHY SHOULD I?

2006-01-15T18:22:00.000-08:00

Why should I say I can't when the Bible says I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength (Philippians 4:13)?

Why should I feel I lack anything when God supplies all my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:19)?

Why should I fear when God has not given me a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7)?

Why should I be weak when the Lord is the strength of my life (Psalm 27:1; Daniel 11:32)?

Why should I feel like a failure when I am a conqueror in all things through Christ (Romans 8:37)?

Why should I allow Satan supremacy over my life when He that is in me is greater than he that is in the world (1 John 4:4)?

Why should I lack wisdom when God gives wisdom to me generously when I ask for it (1 Corinthians 1:30; James 1:5)?

Why should I accept defeat when the Bible says that God always leads me in triumph (2 Corinthians 2:14)?

Why should I be depressed when I have God's loving kindness, compassion, and faithfulness to give me hope (Lamentations 3:21-23)?

Why should I worry when I can cast all my care on Christ who cares for me (1 Peter 5:7)?

Why should I be in bondage when the truth has set me free (John 8:32)?

Why should I feel condemned when there is no condemnation to them who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1)?

Why should I feel alone when Jesus is with me always, even to the end of the world (Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5)?

Why should I be discontented when I can be content in all my circumstances (Philippians 4:11)?

Why should I feel worthless when Christ values me (1 Corinthians 4:5)?

Why should I have a persecution complex, knowing that nobody can be against me when God is for me (Romans 8:31)?

Why should I let the pressures of life bother me when Jesus has overcome the world and its tribulations (John 16:33)?

Jesus said, "I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly" (John 10:10). If you belong to the Lord rejoice now, and give Him thanks, for He is worthy; Oh! praise His holy Name.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
Biblical principles for successful living.

Joy Of Obedience

2006-01-01T17:43:00.000-08:00

Man has always struggled with obeying God's commands. Many people today fall into the trap of viewing obedience as the Pharisees did in Christ's day: The Pharisees were precise in their efforts to follow countless guidelines for conduct and diet. Yet their great sin was to focus on the letter of the Law while disregarding its spirit. The outward behavior of these religious leaders appeared pious, but their hearts were far from the kingdom of God. May I say child of God, true allegiance and commitment to Christ, begins with our thoughts and continues all the way through to our actions and attitudes.

Decide today that, regardless of your circumstances, you will obey God and leave the consequences to Him. Just as obedience brings the Father's blessings, disobedience results in lost of fellowship and eventually the Father's chastising hand. Whether 5 or 105, God's children will do well by learning to "trust and obey." You think about that.

But if anyone obeys His Word, God's love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in Him. (1 John 2:5)

But the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it--- he will be blessed in what he does. (James 1:25)

The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. (Psalm 19:8)

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
Biblical principles for successful living.

The Meaning Of Christmas

2005-12-20T18:25:00.000-08:00

Christmas is a celebration of the historic moment when God came to earth in the person of Jesus Christ for the purpose of redeeming sinful man. The Christmas story begins not in a manger, but in the garden of Eden. There, God initiated a genealogical line through Adam and Eve that would remain unbroken, throughout centuries of slavery, famine, and turbulence, ultimately leading to the Messiah.

Meanwhile, God begin preparing the world for Christ's arrival. Roman conquests placed men like Caesar Augustus in charge; his call for a census served God's purposes by leading Joseph and Mary to Bethlehem, where the birth of the Messiah had been prophesied. (Micah 5:2) Rome's influence also led to a network of roads, which would eventually allow Paul and others to travel the then known world preaching the Gospel.

God arranged all of this so that at just the right time, Jesus Christ could arrive on earth as a baby who would grow up to be our Savior, dying for mankind's sins. Child of God, we cannot allow ourselves to drift into a materialistic view of Christmas along with the rest of the world. In a month of colored lights and glowing candles, we should be burning brighter than ever as His lights to the world. You think about that.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
Touching lives with the Gospel.

What is a Christian?

2005-12-05T13:10:00.000-08:00

What is a Christian? The question can be answered in many ways, but the best answer I know is that a Christian is one who has God for his Father.

But cannot this be said of every man, Christian or not? Emphatically no! The idea that all men are children of God is not found in the Bible anywhere. The Old Testament shows God as the Father, not of all men, but His own people, the seed of Abraham. [Israel is my son, even my firstborn; and I say unto thee, Let my son go...Exodus 4:22]. The New Testament has a world vision, but it to shows God as the Father, not of all men, but of those who, knowing themselves to be sinners, put their trust in the Lord Jesus Christ as their divine sin-bearer and master, and so become Abraham's spiritual seed. [Ye are all sons of God, through faith, in Christ Jesus... ye all are one man in Christ Jesus. And if ye are Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed... Galatians 3:26]. Sonship to God is not, therefore, a universal status upon which everyone enters by natural birth, but a supernatural gift which one receives through receiving Jesus. [No man cometh unto the Father- In other words, is acknowledged by God as a son-- but by me... John 14:6]. The gift of sonship to God becomes ours, not through being born, but through being born again. [As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name; which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God... John 1:12].

My question to you dear friend, have you been born again? Have you been washed in the blood? Are you a son or daughter of the living God? If you cannot answer yes to these questions, then my friend you are facing a devil's hell, separated from God for all eternity. The Bible says "today is the day of salvation," also " there is no other name...(Jesus) under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." Will you not receive Christ today, as Lord and Savior? And settle the issue once for all. Your very life depends on what you do with the Son of God; Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me will never die." He died for my sins, as well as your sins friend. You think about that.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
Touching lives with the Gospel.

Discipline Your Thought Life.

2005-11-30T17:27:00.000-08:00

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- thank about such things. (Philippians 4:8)

The Bible teaches that the Christian is responsible for what he receives in his mind. Colossians 3:2 says, "Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth." On the same order James 1:21 tells us, "Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word." Question! Have you cultivated the habit of holy thinking? It takes a conscious decision on our part to do that.

May I suggest some principles that will help you set your mind on heavenly things, and not on the things of this world. (1) Confess any sins hindering your soul. If you look at impure images that stimulate your lust and desires, confess it as the sin it is. If you are listening to language that is not fit for a Christian to listen to, ask God for His forgiveness. Remember lust and pride are two major sins that most believers struggle with. You need not only to confess the sins that are enslaving your thinking, but you need to repent of them, and ask God for the grace to overcome.

(2) Be cautious about the television you watch, the movies you go to, the music you listen to, the magazines you read, the computer games you play, the websites you visit. Your mind can be corrupted by any of the above.

(3) Memorize Scripture that relate to the temptations of the eyes. Here are some good starters: Psalm 119:37 "Turn away my eyes from looking at worthless things, and revive me in Your way." Job 31:1 "I have made a covenant with my eyes; why then should I look upon a young woman?" Psalm 101:3 "I will set nothing wicked before my eyes; I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me." Matthew 6:22 "The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light." 1 John 2:15-16 "Do not love the world... 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."

Finally: We need to shift our minds from focusing on the images and ways of the world, to the thoughts and ways of the Master. That means more Bible study, more memorized Scripture, more Christian music, making new friends, getting involved in volunteer work, ministering in your church. The old saying that an idle mind is the devil's playground is true. So stay focused on what pleases the Savior.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
For the Christian love is essential, not optional.

What God Says.

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We say; "It's impossible." God says; "All things are possible"(Lk.18:27)
We say; "I'm too tired." God says; "I will give you rest"(Matt.11:28)
We say; "I can't do it." God says; "You can do all things"(Phil.4:13)
We say; "I'm not able." God says; "I am able"(2Cor.9:8)
We say; "It's not worth it." God says; "It will be worth it"(Rom.8:28)
We say; "Nobody really loves me." God says; "I really love you"(Jn.3:16)
We say; "I can't go on." God says; "My grace is sufficient"(2Cor.12:9)
We say; "I can't figure things out." God says; "I will direct your steps"(Prov.3:5-6)
We say; "I can't forgive myself." God says; "I forgive you"(1Jn.1:9)
We say; "I can't manage." God says; "I will supply all your needs"(Phil.4:19)
We say; "I'm afraid." God says; "I have not given you a spirit of fear"(2Tim.1:7)
We say; "I'm always worried." God says; "Cast all your cares on Me"(1Pet.5:7)
We say; "I don't have faith." God says; "My Word gives faith" (Rom.10:17)
We say; "I'm not smart enough." God says; "I will give you wisdom"(Jas.1:5)
We say; "I feel all alone." God says; "I will never leave you or forsake you"(Heb.13:5)

It is easy to get discouraged when things go wrong, but we must not lose heart. Remember God is at work in our world and He is in control. Even in the midst of pain and trial. He has promised to always be with us and to never leave us. The outline above points out that for any negative thing we say to ourselves, God has a positive answer for it. Child of God, do we not serve an awesome God? One who loves us unconditionally? Who proved His love at Calvary? This being true, we of all people should be encouraged and not discouraged, no matter what the circumstances. Give Him praise and thanksgiving today, for who He is and what He has done and will do. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
For the Christian love is essential, not optional.

PSALM 100:1-5

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Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is He who made us, and we are His; we are His people, the sheep of His pasture.

The Lord should be praised and worshiped joyfully. Notice! He is Sovereign, He is the Creator, and those who trust Him are His possession. They follow Him, for they are the sheep of His pasture.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name. For the Lord is good and His love endures forever; His faithfulness continues through all generations.

God's people need to praise the Lord for His goodness, love, and faithfulness. These blessings endure from generation to generation. Every generation of believers are called to express their feelings of gratitude and praise to God.

Worship is central in the Christian life; Christ is central to worship; joy is the right attitude to bring to worship, and a fuller knowledge of Christ is the expected result of worship. May I say acceptable worship is based on God's Sovereignty and centers on the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus said in John 4:24 that we are to "worship in spirit and truth." To worship in spirit means to worship from a consecrated heart, a heart that is committed to Christ. To worship in truth means to worship honestly and biblically, with our worship focused on Christ who is The Truth. May we be encouraged to worship the Lord with gladness; to enter His presence with thanksgiving; for He alone is worthy of our worship.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
Touching lives with the truth of God's Word.

Measure Your Obedience

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Do what is right and good in the sight of the Lord, that it may be well with you. (Deuteronomy 6:18)

It's easy to talk about obedience in general terms; but when it really comes down to it, where do we stand? Are we obedient children or disobedient children? Do we take God at His Word or just play the game? 1 Thessalonians 5:12-22, contains as many as twenty five separate commands, each given for our good. Why not turn that chapter into a test to measure your obedience.

Ask yourself: Am I honoring the leaders at my church (v. 12)? Contributing to the unity of my church (v. 13)? Warning the unruly (v. 14)? Being patient with everyone (v. 14)? Refusing to get even with those who hurt me (v. 15)? Rejoicing always (v. 16)? Praying without ceasing (v. 17)? Giving thanks in all circumstances (v. 18)? Abstaining from every form of evil (v. 22)?

Vance Havner once said, "If we are professors of His Name without being partners of His nature, we are hypocrites." You think about that.

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
Touching lives with the truth of God's Word.

A Word on Sanctification

2005-09-30T18:29:00.000-07:00

Most Bible students know that in both the Old and New Testament Scriptures the word holiness and sanctification, with scarcely any exceptions have the same meaning. In the Old Testament both words come from the same Hebrew root; likewise in the New Testament, both words come from the same Greek root. The Hebrew and Greek words for sanctification and holiness simply mean to set apart as sacred, to consecrate, to dedicate. May I say that both in our salvation and in our walk with the Lord, it has been God's purpose, not merely to set us apart from the world, but to set us apart as sacred to Himself. Sanctification speaks of God's love to us more than of our love to Him.

God wants us for Himself. He considers us His hallowed possession, much as a bridegroom considers his bride his very own, sacred to himself. This shows how precious the believer is to the heart of God and makes our separation from the world and sin the natural result of our consecration to Him. Paul says in 1Thessalonians 1:9, ...."you turned to God from idols...." notice he did not say you turned from idols to God. Child of God, true Scriptural sanctification, or holiness, does not consist in dos and don'ts, nor sinless perfection. It is rather a consecration to God which results in a closer walk with Him. You think about that.

...."from the beginning God chose you to be saved through the sanctifying work of the Spirit and through belief in the truth." (2Thes. 2:13)

"To God's elect,....who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ and sprinkling by His blood:" (1Peter 1:1-2)

THE BEREAN NOTEPAD
Touching lives with the truth of God's Word.