As we look at this passage and meditate over the places that God calls us to in His Will, we once again can draw strength in the fact that doing God's work is not about results, that is left to God in his time. While the world continues to judge our lives based on results, God affords us the blessed privilege of just enjoying the process of doing His Will. Knowing that He is calling us to move and speak in His Name is the JOY of life because we know our name is written in his Book. "If GOD be for us, who can be against us" Romans 8:31. "What can separate us from the love of CHRIST" Romans 8:39. "Who can lay charge to GOD's elect" Romans 8:33. "Is there anything too hard for the LORD" Genesis 18:14 . All of these affirm our hearts that we are in the right place at the right time to do the Will of a perfect God! Every place that we get called to and every person we encounter to make the name of Christ famous, has an impact on conforming us more to the image of His Son, Jesus Christ!!! If we can help and love our neighbors as we love ourselves, please the One and Only true God of this Universe who has adopted us into his family through the complete sacrifice of His Son, and be made more like the only man to ever walk this earth in complete harmony of balance and perfection, our response has to be, "Send Us We'll Go"!!! Be Encouraged!!! Have a wonderful life of making Jesus famous on purpose!!!!!
Acts 17
In Athens
16 While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols. 17 So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there. 18 A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to debate with him. Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others remarked, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection. 19 Then they took him and brought him to a meeting of the Arapahos, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? 20 You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we would like to know what they mean.” 21 (All the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.)
22 Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Arapahos and said: “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. 23 For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you.
24 “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. 25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. 26 From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. 27 God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. 28 ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’[b] As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’[c]
29 “Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill. 30 In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31 For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”
32 When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.” 33 At that, Paul left the Council. 34 Some of the people became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysus, a member of the Arapahos, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.
Soldiers of God
Ever ready for the Charge
Friday, January 21, 2011
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Making Jesus Famous Volume 3
Reading this passage of scripture should truly give us joy and relief in the fact that our evangelism is not motivated by numbers. Many children of God fall away from evangelism because they don't get to see the direct results of their efforts. Many of us get caught on fire after our conversion and we start to tell everyone we know about the Gospel and our Savior Jesus Christ. After a while of rejection we start to get deterred and feel that evangelism must not be our gift. We were all called to evangelize, some may have the gift to do so in front of thousands but we are all called to make disciples of all nations. In our society, we live around all nations each day. The world sees success based off of numbers, while God judges success based on the heart. If we continue to sow the seeds of Christ in love for the world to know Him whether they make the decision or not, God will see your efforts as successful. All will not be saved in this life and we all know this to be true, either wise the gate would not be narrow. Our job is not to be their saviors, our job is to sow and water so that God in His timing may grant the increase. It will be a joy in heaven to see the people that came to Christ based off of your decision not to stop evangelizing. Those who we may not think will ever come will be the very ones standing next to us in the white robes!!! 1 Corinthians 9:22 "To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some", Paul's heart. FAINT NOT!!! Be Encouraged!!! Have a wonderful life of making Jesus famous on purpose!!!!!
Acts 17
In Athens
16 While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols. 17 So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there. 18 A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to debate with him. Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others remarked, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection. 19 Then they took him and brought him to a meeting of the Arapahos, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? 20 You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we would like to know what they mean.” 21 (All the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.)
22 Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Arapahos and said: “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. 23 For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you.
24 “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. 25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. 26 From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. 27 God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. 28 ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’[b] As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’[c]
29 “Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill. 30 In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31 For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”
32 When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.” 33 At that, Paul left the Council. 34 Some of the people became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysus, a member of the Arapahos, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.
Acts 17
In Athens
16 While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols. 17 So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there. 18 A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to debate with him. Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others remarked, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection. 19 Then they took him and brought him to a meeting of the Arapahos, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? 20 You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we would like to know what they mean.” 21 (All the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.)
22 Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Arapahos and said: “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. 23 For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you.
24 “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. 25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. 26 From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. 27 God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. 28 ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’[b] As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’[c]
29 “Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill. 30 In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31 For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”
32 When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.” 33 At that, Paul left the Council. 34 Some of the people became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysus, a member of the Arapahos, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Making Jesus Famous Volume 2
Paul shows us the fundamental skill in effective evangelism and that's to make the gospel relevant to the receiver. When we go to spread the gospel if we do not take time to understand our audience we will miss the opportunity for their ears to be open. Now we know that the power of salvation is in hearing the gospel, but if the person is turned off before we get a chance to speak those words, their heart is closed along with their ears. Just like the people of Israel had to be prepared for the coming of the Lord, which was the calling of John the Baptist, we must apply the gospel in such a way that the heart is prepared to receive it. That is why evangelism is most effective in relationship, because we know the audience and we can apply the Word of God and the Gospel of Jesus Christ to their lives. Our ministry field is right around us each day and we are to make known the Life of our Savior, Jesus Christ!!! Be Encouraged!!! Have a wonderful life of making Jesus famous on purpose!!!!!
Acts 17
In Athens
16 While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols. 17 So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there. 18 A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to debate with him. Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others remarked, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection. 19 Then they took him and brought him to a meeting of the Arapahos, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? 20 You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we would like to know what they mean.” 21 (All the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.)
22 Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Arapahos and said: “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. 23 For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you.
24 “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. 25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. 26 From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. 27 God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. 28 ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’[b] As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’[c]
29 “Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill. 30 In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31 For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”
32 When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.” 33 At that, Paul left the Council. 34 Some of the people became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysus, a member of the Arapahos, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.
Acts 17
In Athens
16 While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols. 17 So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there. 18 A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to debate with him. Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others remarked, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection. 19 Then they took him and brought him to a meeting of the Arapahos, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? 20 You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we would like to know what they mean.” 21 (All the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.)
22 Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Arapahos and said: “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. 23 For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you.
24 “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. 25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. 26 From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. 27 God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. 28 ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’[b] As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’[c]
29 “Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill. 30 In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31 For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”
32 When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.” 33 At that, Paul left the Council. 34 Some of the people became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysus, a member of the Arapahos, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Making Jesus Famous Volume 1
The apostle Paul's life goal after his transformation was to make known the name of Jesus Christ, to Jew and Greek. His life was constantly being poured out to make known this true God and the salvation that comes from believing on the name of His begotten Son who died on the cross for our salvation. As we read in the text below Paul used opened doors in order to get this message out. When we are consumed with our own lives and the needs thereof we tend to miss the doors that God opens for His Gospel to be known. When we are trusting in our Father and our Savior we can set our eyes on the work of the great commission. We must love others greater than ourselves in that we share with them the love that has been poured out on us, in spite of our fears of rejection or our shyness towards strangers. This was Paul's calling in life to go and evangelize to the world. Have we started with our own sphere of influence??? Have we made know the preciousness of Christ to our family, friends, and coworkers??? If our heart is for our Husband's return we must continue the mission of growing and perfecting His Bride!!! Be Encouraged!!! Have a wonderful life of making Jesus famous on purpose!!!!!
Acts 17
In Athens
16 While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols. 17 So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there. 18 A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to debate with him. Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others remarked, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection. 19 Then they took him and brought him to a meeting of the Arapahos, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? 20 You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we would like to know what they mean.” 21 (All the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.)
22 Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Arapahos and said: “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. 23 For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you.
24 “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. 25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. 26 From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. 27 God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. 28 ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’[b] As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’[c]
29 “Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill. 30 In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31 For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”
32 When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.” 33 At that, Paul left the Council. 34 Some of the people became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysus, a member of the Arapahos, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.
Acts 17
In Athens
16 While Paul was waiting for them in Athens, he was greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols. 17 So he reasoned in the synagogue with both Jews and God-fearing Greeks, as well as in the marketplace day by day with those who happened to be there. 18 A group of Epicurean and Stoic philosophers began to debate with him. Some of them asked, “What is this babbler trying to say?” Others remarked, “He seems to be advocating foreign gods.” They said this because Paul was preaching the good news about Jesus and the resurrection. 19 Then they took him and brought him to a meeting of the Arapahos, where they said to him, “May we know what this new teaching is that you are presenting? 20 You are bringing some strange ideas to our ears, and we would like to know what they mean.” 21 (All the Athenians and the foreigners who lived there spent their time doing nothing but talking about and listening to the latest ideas.)
22 Paul then stood up in the meeting of the Arapahos and said: “People of Athens! I see that in every way you are very religious. 23 For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. So you are ignorant of the very thing you worship—and this is what I am going to proclaim to you.
24 “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. 25 And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. 26 From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands. 27 God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. 28 ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’[b] As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’[c]
29 “Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill. 30 In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31 For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.”
32 When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some of them sneered, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this subject.” 33 At that, Paul left the Council. 34 Some of the people became followers of Paul and believed. Among them was Dionysus, a member of the Arapahos, also a woman named Damaris, and a number of others.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Walking on Water Volume 4
The Joy we have as Christians is knowing that we have a Savior who intercedes on our behalf daily and advocates for us to the Father. In the passage we see that Peter takes His eyes off the Lord and starts to sink, when he does he cries out to the Lord and the Lord saves him. Peter was smart enough to cry out, many of God's children try to impress the Father by showing Him how we can maintain or do works in His name and all we are doing is sinking. When we realize that He is the source for all that is done through our vessels, we can rely on Him, rather than cry to Him. Now it is a fact that we will take our eyes off of Christ from time to time because of our fallen nature but we should have the same response as Peter did, to cry out and not to be prideful. We have a Lord that we can never be separated from and His love for us is represented in our lives everyday. Don't be afraid to walk on the water with the Lord, for His Grace is sufficient enough to carry you, and if by chance you do take your eyes off Him, remember to cry out for His hand!!! Be Encouraged!!! Have a wonderful life of walking on water on purpose!!!!!
Matthew 14
Jesus Walks on the Water
22 Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23 After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, 24 and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
25 Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.
27 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”
29 “Come,” he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”
31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
32 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
34 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. 35 And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to him 36 and begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed.
Matthew 14
Jesus Walks on the Water
22 Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23 After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, 24 and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
25 Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.
27 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”
29 “Come,” he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”
31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
32 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
34 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. 35 And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to him 36 and begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Walking on Water Volume 3
As we continue to study this passage we see one of the most important aspects of our Christian walk played out through Peter. As long as we keep our eyes on Christ we can weather any storm of trial and tribulation or any temptation sent by the enemy. When we take our eyes off of our Savior and start to look at our circumstances we start to sink in our faith or into sin. As Peter started to see the wind his thoughts immediately went to the fact that he was standing on an unstable surface and he knew in his own power he could not maintain. That is why our foundation is Christ and His perfect sacrifice on the cross. When we build our houses of faith on His Gospel we can stand the winds and the rains that life brings. As long a we trust in our own abilities we will continue to fail trial after trial and temptation after temptation. Today, focus yours eyes on Christ and no matter what life brings with the wind, keep them there!!! A practical way to keep your eyes on Christ is to keep Praising God for His Goodness and your Salvation, when you praise God your eyes has to automatically focus on Him!!! Be Encouraged!!! Have a wonderful life of walking on water on purpose!!!!!
Matthew 14
Jesus Walks on the Water
22 Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23 After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, 24 and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
25 Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.
27 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”
29 “Come,” he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”
31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
32 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
34 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. 35 And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to him 36 and begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed.
Matthew 14
Jesus Walks on the Water
22 Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23 After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, 24 and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
25 Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.
27 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”
29 “Come,” he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”
31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
32 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
34 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. 35 And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to him 36 and begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Walking on Water Volume 2
There are many times in the Bible were our God has commanded His children to "fear not" and as we see in the passage below Jesus tells His disciples to "Take Courage!" and "Don't be afraid". Experiencing a full and abundant life in Jesus Christ involves us letting go of the fears that the world and our souls have built inside of us. The ability to walk on water once again should not be taken lightly as we read over this passage. For Peter to call out to his Savior to go where He is, took courage and faith. Here is a true statement, in order to experience the fullness of God you will have to leave something or someone behind. Many are willing to call but few are willing to step out once they hear the Lord say "come"!!! Peter in that moment stepped off of a boat of security, and left the rest of the disciples in order to go and meet His Savior. Sometimes we have to leave friends, family, and even ourselves at the door in order to go and meet our Savior. Peter for that moment let go of the fear he had inside in order to step out on that water. Are we ready to go meet our Savior and experience something that will testify of His love and grace??? Take courage, and don't be afraid to walk into the life God has created for you!!! Be Encouraged!!! Have a wonderful life of walking on water on purpose!!!!!
Matthew 14
Jesus Walks on the Water
22 Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23 After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, 24 and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
25 Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.
27 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”
29 “Come,” he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”
31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
32 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
34 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. 35 And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to him 36 and begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed.
Matthew 14
Jesus Walks on the Water
22 Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23 After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, 24 and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
25 Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.
27 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”
29 “Come,” he said.
Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”
31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
32 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
34 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. 35 And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to him 36 and begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Walking on Water Volume 1
When we look at the passage of Peter calling out to Our Lord Jesus Christ to allow him to come out on the water we see a miracle take place that we never really think to apply to our own lives. First, it is my belief that it truly delighted the Lord for Peter to ask to come out onto the water with Him. I believe that as the scripture states, "with out faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him", Hebrews 11:6. Peter exhibited a heart that desired to be with His Lord. As the passage starts off the disciples are actually experiencing fear because they believe the image they see walking on the water is a ghost. How many times in our lives have we feared a situation for one reason or another and came to find out that it was the movement of the Lord in our lives. Faith can only exist in the absence of fear. Just like light and darkness, faith and fear can not be present in the same place at the same time. Will you ask the Lord to come out on the water in an area of your life??? Will His Grace be sufficient to sustain your faith in this area so that you may please Him and share with the world another testimony of His love in your life??? Be Encouraged!!! Have a wonderful life of walking on water on purpose!!!!!
Matthew 14
Jesus Walks on the Water 22 Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23 After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, 24 and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
25 Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.
27 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”
29 “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”
31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
32 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
34 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. 35 And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to him 36 and begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed.
Matthew 14
Jesus Walks on the Water 22 Immediately Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowd. 23 After he had dismissed them, he went up on a mountainside by himself to pray. Later that night, he was there alone, 24 and the boat was already a considerable distance from land, buffeted by the waves because the wind was against it.
25 Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. 26 When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear.
27 But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
28 “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.”
29 “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. 30 But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!”
31 Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
32 And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. 33 Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
34 When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret. 35 And when the men of that place recognized Jesus, they sent word to all the surrounding country. People brought all their sick to him 36 and begged him to let the sick just touch the edge of his cloak, and all who touched it were healed.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Fresh Start Volume 3
When God chose the path for our lives, He truly gives us all we need to submit to His perfect Will. Many times He will even send one or more of His children to come along side of us as we start the journey. We see as Paul got his fresh start God sent Ananias; a servant of the Lord; to go and restore Paul's sight. Ananias was also used as a vessel so that Paul would receive the Holy Spirit. Many times as we take our journey and run our race God will send saints to encourage and provide for our needs. The Christian community is so vital for the proper development and maturing of each saint. As we take a look around our lives today, we will notice that some saints have come and gone. God will provide all that we need in each season and He uses His many children who have different gifts for our needs. This life was never meant to be lived out in a vacuum. We must align with the provision God has given us and take joy in the fact that our Father will never put on us more than we can bare. Today, give praise to God for the saints He has sent for you to walk this journey out with. There are no coincidences in the Kingdom of Heaven and each brother and sister in our lives are there for the purpose of maturing us into the image and life of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!!! Be Encouraged!!! Have a wonderful life of enjoying a fresh start on purpose!!!!!
Acts 9
Saul’s Conversion
1Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest 2and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem.
3As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him.4He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”
5“Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.
“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. 6“Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
7The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone.^8Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. 9For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
10In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!” “Yes, Lord,” he answered. 11The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”
13“Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. 14And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.”
15But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.^16I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
17Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized,^19and after taking some food, he regained his strength.
Acts 9
Saul’s Conversion
1Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest 2and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem.
3As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him.4He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”
5“Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.
“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. 6“Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
7The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone.^8Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. 9For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
10In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!” “Yes, Lord,” he answered. 11The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”
13“Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. 14And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.”
15But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel.^16I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
17Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized,^19and after taking some food, he regained his strength.
Fresh Start Volume 2
Paul found himself in a state of physical blindness as he started on the
path God willed for Him to travel. Many of us start out this exact same way
and it's for the same reason Paul had to; "For we live by Faith, not by
sight", 2 Corinthians 5:7. We know that, "Without Faith it is impossible to
please God", Hebrews 11:6a. When we pursue the things of God we have to be willing to give up our "comfort of control" and we must rely in resting in God. As we begin with our fresh start this year, we must put aside our strength and abilities and submit to the God's wisdom and knowledge. we may not see the stair case but we can see the first step, and through Faith we know that the staircase is there and it is leading us to the place God wants to take us.
We wouldn't pay for a personal trainer at a gym and walk in to give them
instruction on what exercises we will and will not be doing. We pay for
that instructor because we believe they have the knowledge and expertise to
know what we need in order to get to a healthy place in life. The same goes
for us and God, we came to Him because we knew that He knows better than we
do, the plans for our lives. We embrace the blindness because we learn as
Paul did, that "God's Grace is Sufficient"!!! Be Encouraged!!! Have a
wonderful life of enjoying a fresh start on purpose!!!!!
Acts 9
path God willed for Him to travel. Many of us start out this exact same way
and it's for the same reason Paul had to; "For we live by Faith, not by
sight", 2 Corinthians 5:7. We know that, "Without Faith it is impossible to
please God", Hebrews 11:6a. When we pursue the things of God we have to be willing to give up our "comfort of control" and we must rely in resting in God. As we begin with our fresh start this year, we must put aside our strength and abilities and submit to the God's wisdom and knowledge. we may not see the stair case but we can see the first step, and through Faith we know that the staircase is there and it is leading us to the place God wants to take us.
We wouldn't pay for a personal trainer at a gym and walk in to give them
instruction on what exercises we will and will not be doing. We pay for
that instructor because we believe they have the knowledge and expertise to
know what we need in order to get to a healthy place in life. The same goes
for us and God, we came to Him because we knew that He knows better than we
do, the plans for our lives. We embrace the blindness because we learn as
Paul did, that "God's Grace is Sufficient"!!! Be Encouraged!!! Have a
wonderful life of enjoying a fresh start on purpose!!!!!
Acts 9
Saul’s Conversion
1Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the
Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest^2and asked him for letters to
the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to
the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to
Jerusalem.^3As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from
heaven flashed around him.^4He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to
him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”
5“Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.
“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied.^6“Now get up and go
into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied.^6“Now get up and go
into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
7The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound
but did not see anyone.^8Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his
eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus.^9For
three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
but did not see anyone.^8Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his
eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus.^9For
three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
10In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him
in a vision, “Ananias!”
“Yes, Lord,” he answered.
in a vision, “Ananias!”
“Yes, Lord,” he answered.
11The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask
for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying.^12In a vision he has
seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his
sight.”
for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying.^12In a vision he has
seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his
sight.”
13“Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and
all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem.^14And he has come
here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your
name.”
all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem.^14And he has come
here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your
name.”
15But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to
proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of
Israel. 16I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of
Israel. 16I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
17Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on
Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the
road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be
filled with the Holy Spirit.”^18Immediately, something like scales fell from
Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized,^19and after
taking some food, he regained his strength.
Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the
road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be
filled with the Holy Spirit.”^18Immediately, something like scales fell from
Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized,^19and after
taking some food, he regained his strength.
Fresh Start Volume 1
As children of the most High God, we understand that our lives are centered around seasons. We know from God’s Holy Word that there is a season for everything under the sun. As we enter and exit these seasons of life we gain wisdom into who God is, how He created us, and who he created us to be. At the beginning of every year we have a fresh start to follow the Will of this awesome God. We can look at one example of a person getting a fresh start in life to draw hope and excitement in how God can turn things around in our lives and allow us to follow His perfect Will. When we take a look at the conversion of Saul to Paul, we see a life that was once filled with ignorance towards the life of Christ. When Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ met Paul on that road, He presented Paul with a chance at a fresh start in life. Many of the things that Saul was doing up until that point was truly deserving of God’s wrath and punishment, as we all have experienced in our own lives. Just like us, Paul chose to give up the life he once knew to enter into this new life that the Lord had presented him with. As we take this week and look at this fresh start for Paul, I pray that we will all draw inspiration and strength to choose to follow the path that our Lord has presented to us and that we would have a renewed hope and joy in this fresh start!!! Be encouraged!!! Have a wonderful life of enjoying a fresh start on purpose!!!!!
Acts 9
Saul’s Conversion
1 Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. 3 As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”
5 “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.
“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. 6 “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
7 The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. 8 Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. 9 For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
10 In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!”
“Yes, Lord,” he answered.
11 The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12 In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”
13 “Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. 14 And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.”
15 But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. 16 I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
17 Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, 19 and after taking some food, he regained his strength.
Acts 9
Saul’s Conversion
1 Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord’s disciples. He went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. 3 As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?”
5 “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked.
“I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. 6 “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”
7 The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. 8 Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. 9 For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
10 In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!”
“Yes, Lord,” he answered.
11 The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12 In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.”
13 “Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. 14 And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.”
15 But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. 16 I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
17 Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” 18 Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, 19 and after taking some food, he regained his strength.
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