Then they said to Him, "Lord, give us this bread always." John 6:34
As we note in Luke Chapter 11 when the disciples observed Jesus praying, that they did not ask Him to teach them how to raise people from the dead, cause a blind eye to see or heal the Lepers.. No, they said “Lord teach us how to pray”. It seems as almost in the same breath when Jesus finishes the prayer in Luke chapter 11, He wants to make known to the disciples that there is something of great importance in the Daily Bread He had just instructed them to pray for. For he says in v-5,6 "Which of you shall have a friend, and go to him at midnight and say to him, 'Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has come to me on his journey, and I have nothing to set before him”.
He is speaking of a certain man who had a friend show up at his “tent”. It is at a very late hour and this man’s friend has been on a very long journey. This man’s friend was in need of something and there was not any possible way that this man could give it to Him. “I will take you to my friend”, says the man, he is a dear friend and he will have the bread that you need. “Yes”, I will take you with me and I will inquire with you, for you see my friend will surely have the “true bread that you are searching for”. In fact, this is where I found “true bread” for me..
A true friend will always admit they have no bread, but they know how to lead their friend to the one that has and is the “True Bread”, never boasting of them selves saying “look at me”, but always pointing them right straight to the Father.
In John 6:32 Jesus is speaking to a large group of people that had found Him in Capernaum, after their long journey, and He tells them that even Moses did not give them the bread from Heaven, But, Jesus says “My Father gives you the true bread from heaven”... Moses never did not boast that he himself was the bread, or supplied the bread.. When hearing this, suddenly the spiritual hunger rose up in those people at Capernaum and they cried out "Lord, give us this bread always."
Then Jesus said, "I am the bread”.
-Larry K. Dammerman-
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Names of God 15- A GRAIN OF WHEAT
John 12:23,24 And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.
His first bed a lowly feeding trough, before He could be glorified, The Bread of Heaven must become as a grain of wheat. ("Bethlehem" means "House of Bread") How insignificant seems a grain of wheat, and yet this suggestion is one of the most wonderful in the Word of God. A grain of wheat is so small that it can hardly be held between the fingers without dropping, and yet it is associated with His glory! He must die in order to bring forth fruit. So must we ("daily" as per Lk 9:23), if we are to be like Him. How hard it seems to human pride to become as a grain of wheat and then to die to this world. But listen to the Words of His Testimony and look upon His
example. Do we desire to be like Him?
Lord, help us to ponder upon this truth today and long to be more like you. Amen.
His first bed a lowly feeding trough, before He could be glorified, The Bread of Heaven must become as a grain of wheat. ("Bethlehem" means "House of Bread") How insignificant seems a grain of wheat, and yet this suggestion is one of the most wonderful in the Word of God. A grain of wheat is so small that it can hardly be held between the fingers without dropping, and yet it is associated with His glory! He must die in order to bring forth fruit. So must we ("daily" as per Lk 9:23), if we are to be like Him. How hard it seems to human pride to become as a grain of wheat and then to die to this world. But listen to the Words of His Testimony and look upon His
example. Do we desire to be like Him?
Lord, help us to ponder upon this truth today and long to be more like you. Amen.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
02-25-09 Can We See?
"The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is good, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness!
-Jesus- Matt 6:22,23
Spiritual pride or spiritual blindness is the worst sort of blindness that a person can have, because that person will always think that they are right… You can never teach a person who thinks they are right that they need “light”… If they claim that Jesus Christ is their life but have not obeyed God and allowed the Holy Spirit to come in, then they truly do not have the light, but only darkness. “Their lamp is giving off no light”.
The eye is the lamp, but if that light inside of you has no oil (Holy Spirit), you will have nothing but darkness. It says in Pro 3:5,6 “ Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths”. So, if we have no oil for that lamp, you will never see that narrow path that we are to walk in, “and very narrow is that path”.
-Larry Dammerman-
-Jesus- Matt 6:22,23
Spiritual pride or spiritual blindness is the worst sort of blindness that a person can have, because that person will always think that they are right… You can never teach a person who thinks they are right that they need “light”… If they claim that Jesus Christ is their life but have not obeyed God and allowed the Holy Spirit to come in, then they truly do not have the light, but only darkness. “Their lamp is giving off no light”.
The eye is the lamp, but if that light inside of you has no oil (Holy Spirit), you will have nothing but darkness. It says in Pro 3:5,6 “ Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths”. So, if we have no oil for that lamp, you will never see that narrow path that we are to walk in, “and very narrow is that path”.
-Larry Dammerman-
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
02-24-09 Can A Saint Slander God?
“For all the promises of God in Him are yea, and in Him Amen.” 2 Cor 1:20
Jesus told the parable of the talents recorded in Matthew 25 as a warning that it is possible for us to misjudge our capacity. This parable has not to do with natural gifts, but with the gift of the Holy Ghost. We must not measure our spiritual capacity by education or by intellect; our capacity in spiritual things is measured by the promises of God. If we get less than God wants us to have, before long we will slander Him as the servant slandered his master: "You expect more than You give me power to do; You demand too much of me, I cannot stand true to You where I am placed." When it is a question of God's Almighty Spirit, never say "I can't." Never let the limitation of natural ability come in. If we have received the Holy Spirit, God expects the work of the Holy Spirit to be manifested in us.
The servant justified himself in everything he did and condemned his lord on every point - "Your demand is out of all proportion to what you give." Have we been slandering God by daring to worry when He has said: "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you"? Worrying means exactly what this servant implied - "I know You mean to leave me in the lurch." The person who is lazy naturally is always captious - "I haven't had a decent chance," and the one who is lazy spiritually is captious with God. Lazy people always strike out on an independent line.
Never forget that our capacity in spiritual matters is measured by the promises of God. Is God able to fulfill His promises? Our answer depends on whether we have received the Holy Spirit.
-Oswald Chambers-
I believe that there is another important factor when the wicked and slothful servant says in Matt 25:24 “Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed.” I truly believe this statement was made because this man was a servant that did not know his Lord. For if he would have known his Lord then the command would not have been made in verse 30, “And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” This also confirms that the servant did indeed slander his master.
Now is the time to examine ourselves and see if we are being transformed or merely conforming to the world and calling ourselves Christians for the sake of a name. I do not have the intention to question anyone in their walk any more than I should question myself. Am I where I should be?? Am I using what the Holy Spirit is giving me in the way I should??? And if I am not, I ask that You reveal it to me Lord, so that I may be called a faithful servant.
Blessings,
Larry
Jesus told the parable of the talents recorded in Matthew 25 as a warning that it is possible for us to misjudge our capacity. This parable has not to do with natural gifts, but with the gift of the Holy Ghost. We must not measure our spiritual capacity by education or by intellect; our capacity in spiritual things is measured by the promises of God. If we get less than God wants us to have, before long we will slander Him as the servant slandered his master: "You expect more than You give me power to do; You demand too much of me, I cannot stand true to You where I am placed." When it is a question of God's Almighty Spirit, never say "I can't." Never let the limitation of natural ability come in. If we have received the Holy Spirit, God expects the work of the Holy Spirit to be manifested in us.
The servant justified himself in everything he did and condemned his lord on every point - "Your demand is out of all proportion to what you give." Have we been slandering God by daring to worry when He has said: "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you"? Worrying means exactly what this servant implied - "I know You mean to leave me in the lurch." The person who is lazy naturally is always captious - "I haven't had a decent chance," and the one who is lazy spiritually is captious with God. Lazy people always strike out on an independent line.
Never forget that our capacity in spiritual matters is measured by the promises of God. Is God able to fulfill His promises? Our answer depends on whether we have received the Holy Spirit.
-Oswald Chambers-
I believe that there is another important factor when the wicked and slothful servant says in Matt 25:24 “Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed.” I truly believe this statement was made because this man was a servant that did not know his Lord. For if he would have known his Lord then the command would not have been made in verse 30, “And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.” This also confirms that the servant did indeed slander his master.
Now is the time to examine ourselves and see if we are being transformed or merely conforming to the world and calling ourselves Christians for the sake of a name. I do not have the intention to question anyone in their walk any more than I should question myself. Am I where I should be?? Am I using what the Holy Spirit is giving me in the way I should??? And if I am not, I ask that You reveal it to me Lord, so that I may be called a faithful servant.
Blessings,
Larry
Names of God 14- A GOVERNOR
And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel. Matt 2:6
Bethlehem of Judea! A little village, twice highly honored! The birthplace of David, King of Israel, and the birthplace of Jesus the Christ, King of kings and Lord of lords! Who could visit this Land of Promise and not desire to see this city of cities, the place where Jehovah enthroned in human form and lying in a manger gazed into the face of the virgin Mary, His mother. The Government shall be upon His shoulders and He will Reign in Righteousness! Blessed day!
We pray for its soon coming, and ask for grace that we may hasten it. Amen.
Bethlehem of Judea! A little village, twice highly honored! The birthplace of David, King of Israel, and the birthplace of Jesus the Christ, King of kings and Lord of lords! Who could visit this Land of Promise and not desire to see this city of cities, the place where Jehovah enthroned in human form and lying in a manger gazed into the face of the virgin Mary, His mother. The Government shall be upon His shoulders and He will Reign in Righteousness! Blessed day!
We pray for its soon coming, and ask for grace that we may hasten it. Amen.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Names of God 13- A GLORIOUS THRONE
Isai 22:23 And I will fasten him as a nail in a sure place; and he shall be for a glorious throne to his father's house.
We have here the suggestion of "the Father's house", which is Heaven, and the "Glorious Throne" which that house contains, and that "Throne" is our Lord Jesus Christ, for "throne" is often used as a symbol of royalty and regal authority. We read in Rev 4:2,3 of a "throne which was set in Heaven and One sat on the throne. And He that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone, a stone from Sardis, red in color; "carnelian"-RSV]; and there was a rainbow about the throne". It is before this throne that we pay our devotions and present our requests (heb 4:16; 8:1) in perfect assurance that we will "obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need".
Oh, Thou Glorious One, accept our adoration and put Thy pierced hand upon our heads today. Amen.
We have here the suggestion of "the Father's house", which is Heaven, and the "Glorious Throne" which that house contains, and that "Throne" is our Lord Jesus Christ, for "throne" is often used as a symbol of royalty and regal authority. We read in Rev 4:2,3 of a "throne which was set in Heaven and One sat on the throne. And He that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone, a stone from Sardis, red in color; "carnelian"-RSV]; and there was a rainbow about the throne". It is before this throne that we pay our devotions and present our requests (heb 4:16; 8:1) in perfect assurance that we will "obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need".
Oh, Thou Glorious One, accept our adoration and put Thy pierced hand upon our heads today. Amen.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
02-21-09 Scripture
I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, 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. I do not set aside the grace of God; for if righteousness comes through the law, then Christ died in vain." Gal 2:20,21
Names of God 12- A FRIEND THAT STICKETH CLOSER THAN A BROTHER
Prov 18:24 A man (that hath) friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend (that) sticketh closer than a brother.
What a tie that binds us to Christ, closer than any earthly relationship could ever be! He cleaves to us through all earthly experiences. We are bone of His bone and flesh of His flesh. We are one -WITH- Him. There is no power on earth or in heaven which can seperate us [against our will] from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. We need to sense this fact and then live in the consciousness of it.
Live to love Him. Live to honor Him. Live to glorify His name!
Holy Spirit, fill our hearts with love for our Lord Jesus, and guide us in seeking to bring others into blessed fellowship with this "Friend that Sticketh Closer than a Brother". Amen.
What a tie that binds us to Christ, closer than any earthly relationship could ever be! He cleaves to us through all earthly experiences. We are bone of His bone and flesh of His flesh. We are one -WITH- Him. There is no power on earth or in heaven which can seperate us [against our will] from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. We need to sense this fact and then live in the consciousness of it.
Live to love Him. Live to honor Him. Live to glorify His name!
Holy Spirit, fill our hearts with love for our Lord Jesus, and guide us in seeking to bring others into blessed fellowship with this "Friend that Sticketh Closer than a Brother". Amen.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Names of God 11- A Fountain
Isai 28:16 Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner [stone], a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.
The moral condition of Israel is revealed in the verses which immediately follow this verse, and as we read we cannot but compare it with present day conditions. What privileges we have had, handed down to us by our forefathers, yet how little real progress has been made, either morally or spiritually. All human effort will fail. One thing, and only one thing, will avail; recognize Him as the Foundation upon which to build your life structure. It is impossible to build a house in which God can dwell save upon this Foundation, for "other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ."
Oh, our Lord, help us to build on Thee, as Thou hast commanded, resting there in faith. Amen.
The moral condition of Israel is revealed in the verses which immediately follow this verse, and as we read we cannot but compare it with present day conditions. What privileges we have had, handed down to us by our forefathers, yet how little real progress has been made, either morally or spiritually. All human effort will fail. One thing, and only one thing, will avail; recognize Him as the Foundation upon which to build your life structure. It is impossible to build a house in which God can dwell save upon this Foundation, for "other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ."
Oh, our Lord, help us to build on Thee, as Thou hast commanded, resting there in faith. Amen.
02-20-09 Scripture
Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. -James 1:27-
02-20-09 Exodus Cry
http://www.exoduscry.com/awareness/media/the-mission-briefing
Clicking on this link and watching this short clip will change your life......
Clicking on this link and watching this short clip will change your life......
Thursday, February 19, 2009
02-19-09 Quote
God did not create Poverty....
People created Poverty....
And we can also end it....
Justice should compel us to meet the needs of the poor...
-Gerard Thomas Straub-
02-19-09 Scripture
"Is this not the fast that I have chosen: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke?
Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your own flesh?
Then your light shall break forth like the morning, Your healing shall spring forth speedily, And your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard.
Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer; You shall cry, and He will say, 'Here I am.' "If you take away the yoke from your midst, The pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness,
If you extend your soul to the hungry And satisfy the afflicted soul, Then your light shall dawn in the darkness, And your darkness shall be as the noonday. ISAIAH 58:6-10
Is it not to share your bread with the hungry, And that you bring to your house the poor who are cast out; When you see the naked, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from your own flesh?
Then your light shall break forth like the morning, Your healing shall spring forth speedily, And your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the LORD shall be your rear guard.
Then you shall call, and the LORD will answer; You shall cry, and He will say, 'Here I am.' "If you take away the yoke from your midst, The pointing of the finger, and speaking wickedness,
If you extend your soul to the hungry And satisfy the afflicted soul, Then your light shall dawn in the darkness, And your darkness shall be as the noonday. ISAIAH 58:6-10
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
02-18-09- I Was....
Then the King will say to those on His right hand, 'Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.' Matt 25:34-36
And the King will answer and say to them, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.' Matt 25:40
Giving food to the poor is easy, eating with the poor is much harder but much more rewarding.
Jesus ate with the poor and He asks us to do the same. Communion with the poor is an enriching source of healing.
Jesus states in Matt 25:34-36 “I Was”…. You will never have another opportunity to feed and clothe and visit the poor.
And the King will answer and say to them, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.' Matt 25:40
Giving food to the poor is easy, eating with the poor is much harder but much more rewarding.
Jesus ate with the poor and He asks us to do the same. Communion with the poor is an enriching source of healing.
Jesus states in Matt 25:34-36 “I Was”…. You will never have another opportunity to feed and clothe and visit the poor.
Names of God 10- A DIADEM OF BEAUTY
Isai 28:5 In that day shall the LORD of hosts be for a crown of glory, and for a diadem of beauty, unto the residue of his people,
Words are but poor things to convey to our minds the glories that await us "in that day" when we shall gaze upon our Lord as a "Diadem Of Beauty." What will it be to see Him then, He whose life here upon earth was spotless and beautiful, whose character was flawless! How can we meditate upon that glorious scene beside which all other scenes of beauty and splendor are colorless, without longing for that day to come when we shall see Him, and --- wonder of wonders, --- we shall be "like Him!"?
Oh, Lord Jesus, our hearts are going out in longing and anticipation. May we seek daily to bring others to Thee that they too may share in that Crowning Day. Amen.
Words are but poor things to convey to our minds the glories that await us "in that day" when we shall gaze upon our Lord as a "Diadem Of Beauty." What will it be to see Him then, He whose life here upon earth was spotless and beautiful, whose character was flawless! How can we meditate upon that glorious scene beside which all other scenes of beauty and splendor are colorless, without longing for that day to come when we shall see Him, and --- wonder of wonders, --- we shall be "like Him!"?
Oh, Lord Jesus, our hearts are going out in longing and anticipation. May we seek daily to bring others to Thee that they too may share in that Crowning Day. Amen.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
02-17-09 Quote
Conversions by the Bible
Have any of you known or heard of such a thing as conversion wrought by any other doctrine than that which is in the Word? I should like to have a catalogue of conversions wrought by modern theology.
If we want revivals, we must revive our reverence for the Word of God. If we want conversions, we must put more of God’s Word into our sermons; even if we paraphrase it into our own words, it must still be his Word upon which we place our reliance, for the only power which will bless men lies in that. It is God’s Word that saves souls not our comment upon it, however correct that comment may be.
-C.H. Spurgeon-
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Have any of you known or heard of such a thing as conversion wrought by any other doctrine than that which is in the Word? I should like to have a catalogue of conversions wrought by modern theology.
If we want revivals, we must revive our reverence for the Word of God. If we want conversions, we must put more of God’s Word into our sermons; even if we paraphrase it into our own words, it must still be his Word upon which we place our reliance, for the only power which will bless men lies in that. It is God’s Word that saves souls not our comment upon it, however correct that comment may be.
-C.H. Spurgeon-
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Names of God 09- A Crown of Glory
Isai 28:5 In that day shall the LORD of hosts be for a crown of glory, and for a diadem of beauty, unto the residue of his people,
We should read the first five verses of this chapter in order to get the proper vision of the glorious scene portrayed. Uplifted pride is to be trodden down under His feet. Those who are always seeking to live in the limelight will have small place then. "Seekest thou great things for thyself? Seek them not." Let us seek His glory Who is the All-Glorious One. Let us defend His Name now. He is our Righteousness and our Strength. He is our All-in-all. Lift up your eyes and behold Him! Lift up your voice and praise Him!
Oh, Thou Glorious One, we do worship and adore Thee, and give Thee all praise. Amen.
We should read the first five verses of this chapter in order to get the proper vision of the glorious scene portrayed. Uplifted pride is to be trodden down under His feet. Those who are always seeking to live in the limelight will have small place then. "Seekest thou great things for thyself? Seek them not." Let us seek His glory Who is the All-Glorious One. Let us defend His Name now. He is our Righteousness and our Strength. He is our All-in-all. Lift up your eyes and behold Him! Lift up your voice and praise Him!
Oh, Thou Glorious One, we do worship and adore Thee, and give Thee all praise. Amen.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Names Of God 08-A Covert From The Tempest
And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land. Isai 32:2
There never could be but one Man to whom this title could be applied, and that is, the Man Christ Jesus. We must face the storms of life, and we are defensless in ourselves, but we can always snuggle up close to Him who has said, "Come unto Me and I will give you rest." He will shelter us from the storms of temptation which threaten to overwhelm us, for "In that He Himself hath suffered, being tempted, He is able to succor them that are tempted." -Heb 2:18 Only trust Him and give Him the joy of ministering to His own trusting ones.
Thou blessed "Covert From The Tempest", cover us with Thy Wings, and keep us ever close to Thy wounded side. Amen.
There never could be but one Man to whom this title could be applied, and that is, the Man Christ Jesus. We must face the storms of life, and we are defensless in ourselves, but we can always snuggle up close to Him who has said, "Come unto Me and I will give you rest." He will shelter us from the storms of temptation which threaten to overwhelm us, for "In that He Himself hath suffered, being tempted, He is able to succor them that are tempted." -Heb 2:18 Only trust Him and give Him the joy of ministering to His own trusting ones.
Thou blessed "Covert From The Tempest", cover us with Thy Wings, and keep us ever close to Thy wounded side. Amen.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Names Of God 07- A COMMANDER
Isai 55:4 Behold, I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people.
A study of the history of nations reveals to us many great commanders. Napoleon was an example of such, and the Old Testament tells us of many great men who God raised up for His people, but no one could rank with God's Own Son Who is the Great Commander. Life is a battle. We must be led in it either by Christ or by Satan. We who are Called by His Name, have acknowledged Him as our Commander. He teaches us how to put on the armor; how to carry the sword; how to face the foe. "What He says we will do; where He sends we will go!" There can be no defeat if we obey His Commands.
Lord Jesus, our Great Commander, our ears are open to Thy Call. Lead Thou on to victory today - even the "victory of our faith!" (1Jn 5:4). Amen.
A study of the history of nations reveals to us many great commanders. Napoleon was an example of such, and the Old Testament tells us of many great men who God raised up for His people, but no one could rank with God's Own Son Who is the Great Commander. Life is a battle. We must be led in it either by Christ or by Satan. We who are Called by His Name, have acknowledged Him as our Commander. He teaches us how to put on the armor; how to carry the sword; how to face the foe. "What He says we will do; where He sends we will go!" There can be no defeat if we obey His Commands.
Lord Jesus, our Great Commander, our ears are open to Thy Call. Lead Thou on to victory today - even the "victory of our faith!" (1Jn 5:4). Amen.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
02-14-09 Quote
A preacher's life should be a commentary upon his doctrine; his practice should be the counterpart of his sermons. Heavenly doctrines should always be adorned with a heavenly life. -Brooks-
02-14-09 Do It Now
“Agree with thine adversary quickly.” Matthew 5:25
Jesus Christ is laying down this principle - Do what you know you must do, now, and do it
quickly; if you do not, the inevitable process will begin to work and you will have to pay to the last farthing in pain and agony and distress. God's laws are unalterable; there is no escape from them. The teaching of Jesus goes straight to the way we are made up.
To see that my adversary gives me my rights is natural; but Jesus says that it is a matter of eternal and imperative importance to me that I pay my adversary what I owe him. From our Lord's standpoint it does not matter whether I am defrauded or not; what does matter is that I do not defraud. Am I insisting on my rights, or am I paying what I owe from Jesus Christ's standpoint?
Do the thing quickly, bring yourself to judgment now. In moral and spiritual matters, you must do it at once; if you do not, the inexorable process will begin to work. God is determined to have His child as pure and clean and white as driven snow, and as long as there is disobedience in any point of His teaching, He will prevent none of the working of His spirit. Our insistence in proving that we are right is nearly always an indication that there has been some point of disobedience. No wonder the Spirit so strongly urges to keep steadfastly in the light!
"Agree with thine adversary quickly." Have you suddenly turned a corner in any relationship and found that you had anger in your heart? Confess it quickly, quickly put it right before God, be reconciled to that one - do it now.
-Oswald Chambers-
Jesus Christ is laying down this principle - Do what you know you must do, now, and do it
quickly; if you do not, the inevitable process will begin to work and you will have to pay to the last farthing in pain and agony and distress. God's laws are unalterable; there is no escape from them. The teaching of Jesus goes straight to the way we are made up.
To see that my adversary gives me my rights is natural; but Jesus says that it is a matter of eternal and imperative importance to me that I pay my adversary what I owe him. From our Lord's standpoint it does not matter whether I am defrauded or not; what does matter is that I do not defraud. Am I insisting on my rights, or am I paying what I owe from Jesus Christ's standpoint?
Do the thing quickly, bring yourself to judgment now. In moral and spiritual matters, you must do it at once; if you do not, the inexorable process will begin to work. God is determined to have His child as pure and clean and white as driven snow, and as long as there is disobedience in any point of His teaching, He will prevent none of the working of His spirit. Our insistence in proving that we are right is nearly always an indication that there has been some point of disobedience. No wonder the Spirit so strongly urges to keep steadfastly in the light!
"Agree with thine adversary quickly." Have you suddenly turned a corner in any relationship and found that you had anger in your heart? Confess it quickly, quickly put it right before God, be reconciled to that one - do it now.
-Oswald Chambers-
Names Of God 06- A CLUSTER OF CAMPHIRE
Song 1:14 My beloved is unto me as a cluster of camphire in the vineyards of Engedi.
Here is a wonderous vision of what Christ is and what He should be to the Church. What a sorrow it is that so many Christians have only a conception of Christ as their Saviour from sin, but fail to recognize that in-Him is everything that the soul can ever need! He is the Incomparable Christ, --- in beauty, in love, in power, in fellowship, in sacrificial service! Why do we make so little of Him? Why not give Him the supreme place in our hearts?
Lord and Saviour, we pray that we may live in the consciousness of Thy fullness of Thy unchanging love for us. Amen.
Here is a wonderous vision of what Christ is and what He should be to the Church. What a sorrow it is that so many Christians have only a conception of Christ as their Saviour from sin, but fail to recognize that in-Him is everything that the soul can ever need! He is the Incomparable Christ, --- in beauty, in love, in power, in fellowship, in sacrificial service! Why do we make so little of Him? Why not give Him the supreme place in our hearts?
Lord and Saviour, we pray that we may live in the consciousness of Thy fullness of Thy unchanging love for us. Amen.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Scripture
For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, Tit 2:11-12
02-13-09 Cheap Grace
Let the Christian rest content with his worldliness and with this renunciation of any higher standard than the world. He is living for the sake of the world rather than for the sake of grace. Let him be comforted and rest assured in his possession of this grace - for grace alone does everything. Instead of following Christ, let the Christian enjoy the consolations of his grace!
That is what we mean by cheap grace, the grace which amounts to the justification of sin without the justification of the repentant sinner who departs from sin and from whom sins departs.
Cheap grace is not the kind of forgiveness of sin which frees us from the toils of sin. Cheap grace is the grace we bestow on ourselves. Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Communion without confession, absolution without personal confession.
Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate.
Costly grace is the treasure hidden in the field; for the sake of it a man will gladly go and sell all that he has. It is the pearl of great price to buy which the merchant will sell all his goods. It is the kingly rule of Christ, for whose sake a man will pluck out the eye which causes him to stumble, it is the call of Jesus Christ at which the disciple leaves his nets and follows him.
Costly grace is the gospel which must be sought again and again, the gift which must the asked for, the door at which a man must knock.
Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ. It is costly because it costs a man his life, and it is grace because it gives a man the only true life. It is costly because it condemns sin, and grace because it justifies the sinner. Above all, it is costly because it cost God the life of his Son: “ye were bought at a price, and what has cost God much cannot be cheap for us. Above all, it is grace because God did not reckon his Son too dear a price to pay for our life, but delivered him up for us.
Costly grace is the Incarnation of God.
-Dietrich Bonhoeffer-
That is what we mean by cheap grace, the grace which amounts to the justification of sin without the justification of the repentant sinner who departs from sin and from whom sins departs.
Cheap grace is not the kind of forgiveness of sin which frees us from the toils of sin. Cheap grace is the grace we bestow on ourselves. Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, Communion without confession, absolution without personal confession.
Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ, living and incarnate.
Costly grace is the treasure hidden in the field; for the sake of it a man will gladly go and sell all that he has. It is the pearl of great price to buy which the merchant will sell all his goods. It is the kingly rule of Christ, for whose sake a man will pluck out the eye which causes him to stumble, it is the call of Jesus Christ at which the disciple leaves his nets and follows him.
Costly grace is the gospel which must be sought again and again, the gift which must the asked for, the door at which a man must knock.
Such grace is costly because it calls us to follow, and it is grace because it calls us to follow Jesus Christ. It is costly because it costs a man his life, and it is grace because it gives a man the only true life. It is costly because it condemns sin, and grace because it justifies the sinner. Above all, it is costly because it cost God the life of his Son: “ye were bought at a price, and what has cost God much cannot be cheap for us. Above all, it is grace because God did not reckon his Son too dear a price to pay for our life, but delivered him up for us.
Costly grace is the Incarnation of God.
-Dietrich Bonhoeffer-
Thursday, February 12, 2009
02-12-09 Quote
The disposition of my soul determines what I see, and the disposition of my soul determines what I hear. -Oswald Chambers-
Names of God 05- A Chief Corner Stone
"Behold, I lay in Zion a Chief Corner Stone...and he that believeth on Him shall not be comfounded." 1 Peter 2:6
Every structure must have a foundation and those of special honor must have a corner-stone. Christ is the Chief Corner Stone of the most wonderful temple ever conceived. This temple is built of human lives-blood-washed saints of the Living God. It is the dwelling place of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Over the door are inscribed the words, "Holiness unto the Lord." From the dome the chimes ring out the call, "Exalt the Lord our God and worship at His feet."
Oh, Lord, may we be the mouth-pieces to spread the invitation to others to come to the temple for worship.... Amen.
Every structure must have a foundation and those of special honor must have a corner-stone. Christ is the Chief Corner Stone of the most wonderful temple ever conceived. This temple is built of human lives-blood-washed saints of the Living God. It is the dwelling place of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. Over the door are inscribed the words, "Holiness unto the Lord." From the dome the chimes ring out the call, "Exalt the Lord our God and worship at His feet."
Oh, Lord, may we be the mouth-pieces to spread the invitation to others to come to the temple for worship.... Amen.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Names of God 04- A Certain Samaritan
Luke 10:33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion [on him],
The story of the Good Samaritan is familiar to all of us, but read it again. Here we take the liberty of viewing our Lord as "a certain Samaritan". Humanity was His neighbor. He loved all, Lived for all, labored for all and laid down His Life for all. Being what He Was and Is, He could be nothing less, and we look up to Him today and glory in the mightiness of His humanity and the magnificence of His heart. If we are indeed Spirit-Born, then there must be something of His Loving-kindness in us, and the world is waiting for our touch upon it. Will we take the Good Samaritan for our model today and pray, "Lord Jesus, make us more like Thyself?" Amen.
The story of the Good Samaritan is familiar to all of us, but read it again. Here we take the liberty of viewing our Lord as "a certain Samaritan". Humanity was His neighbor. He loved all, Lived for all, labored for all and laid down His Life for all. Being what He Was and Is, He could be nothing less, and we look up to Him today and glory in the mightiness of His humanity and the magnificence of His heart. If we are indeed Spirit-Born, then there must be something of His Loving-kindness in us, and the world is waiting for our touch upon it. Will we take the Good Samaritan for our model today and pray, "Lord Jesus, make us more like Thyself?" Amen.
02-11-09 Resist The Tempter
And unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding. Job 28:28
I believe it is very important to be honest with ourselves and identify what really happens concerning the lusts of the flesh, doing things that are unpleasing to God, thinking about things that are unpleasing to God, etc… In fact let’s just call it for what it really is, “SIN”.
Do you sometimes feel as though you are on the edge of a cliff and desiring the lusts of the flesh? You assume that if you give in just for a little while, or just a little bit, you will be alright,,, and then you can just ask God for forgiveness and everything will be Ok in your walk with Him. I tell you that this is a very dangerous place to be. Lets take a look at an event in Jesus’ life when the tempter came to Him in Matt4:5-6 “Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written: 'HE SHALL GIVE HIS ANGELS CHARGE OVER YOU,' and, IN THEIR HANDS THEY SHALL BEAR YOU UP, LEST YOU DASH YOUR FOOT AGAINST A STONE.' "
Do we live a life of “sinful adventure” and are willing to throw ourselves into the midst of the mess, and stay conformed to this world and believe that we can lead a sinful, carnal life now, and somehow get right with God at the very last breath we take? Do we truly know Him if we are living this way, and do we really hold that promise of Eternal Life? Jesus answered the comment from the devil in the next scripture Matt 4:7 "It is written again, 'YOU SHALL NOT TEMPT THE LORD YOUR GOD.' ". So, the act of sin is really a conscious decision that we make. At times we may be thinking that we are teasing the devil, assuming that we can step in sin just a little, but not far enough to let the devil have us.. But it is the enemy that is tempting us and in turn we are not really playing games with the devil at all, but tempting God.
If we are truly saved, then God’s promise will hold fast in our lives, “I will put My fear in their hearts so that they will not depart from Me”- Jer 32:40. This promise is true as long as we acknowledge this fear (reverence) of God, and continue to have a relationship with Him and resist the attempts by the enemy. This is when the fear of God becomes your “strength and wisdom” to overcome, for the flesh is very weak...
I can hear Jesus saying, "yes you are right devil, I am the Son of God,,, and because of that I am not giving you the pleasure,,, nor will I tempt my Father".
-Larry Dammerman-
I believe it is very important to be honest with ourselves and identify what really happens concerning the lusts of the flesh, doing things that are unpleasing to God, thinking about things that are unpleasing to God, etc… In fact let’s just call it for what it really is, “SIN”.
Do you sometimes feel as though you are on the edge of a cliff and desiring the lusts of the flesh? You assume that if you give in just for a little while, or just a little bit, you will be alright,,, and then you can just ask God for forgiveness and everything will be Ok in your walk with Him. I tell you that this is a very dangerous place to be. Lets take a look at an event in Jesus’ life when the tempter came to Him in Matt4:5-6 “Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, "If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written: 'HE SHALL GIVE HIS ANGELS CHARGE OVER YOU,' and, IN THEIR HANDS THEY SHALL BEAR YOU UP, LEST YOU DASH YOUR FOOT AGAINST A STONE.' "
Do we live a life of “sinful adventure” and are willing to throw ourselves into the midst of the mess, and stay conformed to this world and believe that we can lead a sinful, carnal life now, and somehow get right with God at the very last breath we take? Do we truly know Him if we are living this way, and do we really hold that promise of Eternal Life? Jesus answered the comment from the devil in the next scripture Matt 4:7 "It is written again, 'YOU SHALL NOT TEMPT THE LORD YOUR GOD.' ". So, the act of sin is really a conscious decision that we make. At times we may be thinking that we are teasing the devil, assuming that we can step in sin just a little, but not far enough to let the devil have us.. But it is the enemy that is tempting us and in turn we are not really playing games with the devil at all, but tempting God.
If we are truly saved, then God’s promise will hold fast in our lives, “I will put My fear in their hearts so that they will not depart from Me”- Jer 32:40. This promise is true as long as we acknowledge this fear (reverence) of God, and continue to have a relationship with Him and resist the attempts by the enemy. This is when the fear of God becomes your “strength and wisdom” to overcome, for the flesh is very weak...
I can hear Jesus saying, "yes you are right devil, I am the Son of God,,, and because of that I am not giving you the pleasure,,, nor will I tempt my Father".
-Larry Dammerman-
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
02-10-09 Quote
The Christian is a man who can be certain about the ultimate even when he is most uncertain about the immediate. ~ Martyn Lloyd-Jones
Names of God 03- A CERTAIN NOBLEMAN
He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, andto return. Luke 19:12
The setting of this picture is remarkable. Our Lord is standing with the Jews around Him, in the shadows of a palace built by a nobleman, Archelaus, who had gone to Rome and received the kingdom from Caesar. Our Lord is the Nobleman whose face was turned toward the land beyond the skies where He has gone and from whence He will one day return. "Occupy till I come" is His message. He has entrusted to us, as His servants, the most valuable treasure in Heaven, ---time, opportunity, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, a great world in which to transact the greatest of all business! Precious privileges are ours and a solemn accounting must be given.
Lord, give us keenness of vision to see, and wisdom to utilize our opportunities in the investment of our lives for Thee. Amen.
The setting of this picture is remarkable. Our Lord is standing with the Jews around Him, in the shadows of a palace built by a nobleman, Archelaus, who had gone to Rome and received the kingdom from Caesar. Our Lord is the Nobleman whose face was turned toward the land beyond the skies where He has gone and from whence He will one day return. "Occupy till I come" is His message. He has entrusted to us, as His servants, the most valuable treasure in Heaven, ---time, opportunity, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, a great world in which to transact the greatest of all business! Precious privileges are ours and a solemn accounting must be given.
Lord, give us keenness of vision to see, and wisdom to utilize our opportunities in the investment of our lives for Thee. Amen.
02-10-09 Finding Peace
“Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: . . Let not your heart be troubled.”
John 14:27
Whenever a thing becomes difficult in personal experience, we are in danger of blaming God. But it is we who are in the wrong, not God... There is some perversity somewhere that we will not let go, but as we do, everything becomes as clear as daylight. As long as we try to serve two ends, ourselves and God, there is perplexity. The attitude must be one of complete reliance on God, and once we get there, there is nothing easier than living the saintly life; difficulty comes in when we want to usurp the authority of the Holy Spirit for our own ends.
Whenever you obey God, His seal is always that of peace, the witness of an unfathomable peace, which is not natural, but the peace of Jesus. Whenever peace does not come, tarry till it does or find out the reason why it does not... If you are acting on an impulse, or from a sense of the heroic, the peace of Jesus will not witness to you... There is no simplicity or confidence in God because the spirit of simplicity is born of the Holy Ghost, not of your decisions. Every decision brings a reaction of simplicity.
My questions come whenever I cease to obey,,, but when I have obeyed God, the problems never come between me and God, they come as probes to keep the mind going on with amazement at the revelation of God. Any problem that comes between God and myself springs out of disobedience.. Any problem, and there are many, that is alongside me while I obey God, increases my ecstatic delight, because I know that my Father knows, and I am going to watch and see how He unravels this thing.
-Oswald Chambers-
John 14:27
Whenever a thing becomes difficult in personal experience, we are in danger of blaming God. But it is we who are in the wrong, not God... There is some perversity somewhere that we will not let go, but as we do, everything becomes as clear as daylight. As long as we try to serve two ends, ourselves and God, there is perplexity. The attitude must be one of complete reliance on God, and once we get there, there is nothing easier than living the saintly life; difficulty comes in when we want to usurp the authority of the Holy Spirit for our own ends.
Whenever you obey God, His seal is always that of peace, the witness of an unfathomable peace, which is not natural, but the peace of Jesus. Whenever peace does not come, tarry till it does or find out the reason why it does not... If you are acting on an impulse, or from a sense of the heroic, the peace of Jesus will not witness to you... There is no simplicity or confidence in God because the spirit of simplicity is born of the Holy Ghost, not of your decisions. Every decision brings a reaction of simplicity.
My questions come whenever I cease to obey,,, but when I have obeyed God, the problems never come between me and God, they come as probes to keep the mind going on with amazement at the revelation of God. Any problem that comes between God and myself springs out of disobedience.. Any problem, and there are many, that is alongside me while I obey God, increases my ecstatic delight, because I know that my Father knows, and I am going to watch and see how He unravels this thing.
-Oswald Chambers-
Monday, February 9, 2009
Names of God 02- A Bundle Of Myrrh
Song 1:13 -A bundle of myrrh [is] my wellbeloved unto me; he shall lie all night betwixt my breasts.
Myrrh was one of the ingredients in the holy anointing oil which was used to anoint Aaron and the priests. Our Lord was "anointed with the oil of gladness" and He is the Joy of His own. When we come to God The Father we must come in the Name of Jesus Christ, because that Name is to God a "sweet smelling savour". Marvel of marvels, that we, poor undone sinners, should find through the Blood shed on Calvary access to the Throne, and a hearty, heavenly welcome into fellowship -WITH- Himself!
Lord Jesus, we seek Thy presence with holy desire for Thy pierced hand upon our heads this day. Amen.
Myrrh was one of the ingredients in the holy anointing oil which was used to anoint Aaron and the priests. Our Lord was "anointed with the oil of gladness" and He is the Joy of His own. When we come to God The Father we must come in the Name of Jesus Christ, because that Name is to God a "sweet smelling savour". Marvel of marvels, that we, poor undone sinners, should find through the Blood shed on Calvary access to the Throne, and a hearty, heavenly welcome into fellowship -WITH- Himself!
Lord Jesus, we seek Thy presence with holy desire for Thy pierced hand upon our heads this day. Amen.
02-09-09 The Concentration of Personal Sin
Woe is me! For I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips. (Isaiah 6:5)
When I get into the presence of God, I do not realize that I am a sinner in an indefinite sense; I realize the concentration of sin in a particular feature of my life. A man will say easily - 'Oh, yes, I know I am a sinner'; but when he gets into the presence of God he cannot get off with that statement. The conviction is concentrated on- I am this, or that, or the other. This is always the sign that a man or woman is in the presence of God. There is never any vague sense of sin, but the concentration of sin in some personal particular. God begins by convicting us of the one thing fixed on in the mind that is prompted by His Spirit; if we will yield to His conviction on that point, He will lead us down to the great disposition of sin underneath. That is the way God always deals with us when we are consciously in His presence.
This experience of the concentration of sin is true in the greatest and the least of saints as well as in the greatest and the least of sinners. When a man is on the first rung of the ladder of experience, he may say - I do not know where I have gone wrong; but the Spirit of God will point out some particular definite thing. The effect of the vision of the holiness of the Lord on Isaiah was to bring home to him that he was a man of unclean lips. "And he laid it upon my mouth, and said Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged." The cleansing fire had to be applied where the sin had been concentrated".
-Oswald Chambers-
When I get into the presence of God, I do not realize that I am a sinner in an indefinite sense; I realize the concentration of sin in a particular feature of my life. A man will say easily - 'Oh, yes, I know I am a sinner'; but when he gets into the presence of God he cannot get off with that statement. The conviction is concentrated on- I am this, or that, or the other. This is always the sign that a man or woman is in the presence of God. There is never any vague sense of sin, but the concentration of sin in some personal particular. God begins by convicting us of the one thing fixed on in the mind that is prompted by His Spirit; if we will yield to His conviction on that point, He will lead us down to the great disposition of sin underneath. That is the way God always deals with us when we are consciously in His presence.
This experience of the concentration of sin is true in the greatest and the least of saints as well as in the greatest and the least of sinners. When a man is on the first rung of the ladder of experience, he may say - I do not know where I have gone wrong; but the Spirit of God will point out some particular definite thing. The effect of the vision of the holiness of the Lord on Isaiah was to bring home to him that he was a man of unclean lips. "And he laid it upon my mouth, and said Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged." The cleansing fire had to be applied where the sin had been concentrated".
-Oswald Chambers-
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Names of God 01- A BRANCH OUT OF HIS ROOTS
And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: Isa 11:1
He is not only a "Rod", but a "Branch". As you meditate upon this verse you are compelled to think first of the root, then of the shoot, (or "rod"), pushing its way up through the earth, and then of the branch, growing in strength; an illustration of the human life of our Lord Jesus growing up in the midst of Israel, developing from babe to boy, from boy to man, then taking up His ministry that He might fulfill the prophesies of the Book and bear the sins of the world. The fruitage of "The Branch" has been world-wide and will be age-abiding.
O, Thou Mighty One, how we thank Thee that Thou didst bear our sins upon the Tree, making it possible for us to become a part of "The Branch". Amen.
He is not only a "Rod", but a "Branch". As you meditate upon this verse you are compelled to think first of the root, then of the shoot, (or "rod"), pushing its way up through the earth, and then of the branch, growing in strength; an illustration of the human life of our Lord Jesus growing up in the midst of Israel, developing from babe to boy, from boy to man, then taking up His ministry that He might fulfill the prophesies of the Book and bear the sins of the world. The fruitage of "The Branch" has been world-wide and will be age-abiding.
O, Thou Mighty One, how we thank Thee that Thou didst bear our sins upon the Tree, making it possible for us to become a part of "The Branch". Amen.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
02-07-09
Joh 18:36 Jesus answered, "My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here."
Friday, February 6, 2009
02-06-09 Scripture
Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
-Paul- Php 3:13,14
-Paul- Php 3:13,14
02-06-09 The Constraint Of The Call
"Woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!" 1 Corinthians 9:16
Beware of stopping your ears to the call of God. Everyone who is saved is called to testify to the fact; but that is not the call to preach, it is merely an illustration in preaching. Paul is referring to the pangs produced in him by the constraint to preach the Gospel. Never apply what Paul says in this connection to souls coming in contact with God for salvation. There is nothing easier than getting saved because it is God's sovereign work - Come unto Me and I will save you. Our Lord never lays down the conditions of discipleship as the conditions of salvation. We are condemned to salvation through the Cross of Jesus Christ. Discipleship has an option with it - "IF any man. . . "
Paul's words have to do with being made a servant of Jesus Christ, and our permission is never asked as to what we will do or where we will go. God makes us broken bread and poured-out wine to please Himself. To be "separated unto the gospel" means to hear the call of God; and when a man begins to overhear that call, then begins agony that is worthy of the name. Every ambition is nipped in the bud, every desire of life quenched, every outlook completely extinguished and blotted out, saving one thing only - "separated unto the gospel." Woe be to the soul who tries to put his foot in any other direction when once that call has come to him. This College exists for you, and you - to see whether God has a man or woman here who cares about proclaiming His Gospel; to see whether God grips you. And beware of competitors when God does grip you.
-Oswald Chambers-
Beware of stopping your ears to the call of God. Everyone who is saved is called to testify to the fact; but that is not the call to preach, it is merely an illustration in preaching. Paul is referring to the pangs produced in him by the constraint to preach the Gospel. Never apply what Paul says in this connection to souls coming in contact with God for salvation. There is nothing easier than getting saved because it is God's sovereign work - Come unto Me and I will save you. Our Lord never lays down the conditions of discipleship as the conditions of salvation. We are condemned to salvation through the Cross of Jesus Christ. Discipleship has an option with it - "IF any man. . . "
Paul's words have to do with being made a servant of Jesus Christ, and our permission is never asked as to what we will do or where we will go. God makes us broken bread and poured-out wine to please Himself. To be "separated unto the gospel" means to hear the call of God; and when a man begins to overhear that call, then begins agony that is worthy of the name. Every ambition is nipped in the bud, every desire of life quenched, every outlook completely extinguished and blotted out, saving one thing only - "separated unto the gospel." Woe be to the soul who tries to put his foot in any other direction when once that call has come to him. This College exists for you, and you - to see whether God has a man or woman here who cares about proclaiming His Gospel; to see whether God grips you. And beware of competitors when God does grip you.
-Oswald Chambers-
Thursday, February 5, 2009
02-05-09 The Beautiful Burden Of Leadership
THE BEAUTIFUL BURDEN OF LEADERSHIP
God’s plan for our lives is that we would be fashioned and formed into His likeness . But because our natural human dynamic is to run in the total opposite direction of this, He hedges us in with many different things to help us. One of the things he hedges us in with is by giving us people to lead. Leadership is one of the fences that God has built around every single person in order to gently guide them into greater depths of love and humility. All of us have a sphere of leadership in which we are leading in some way shape or form on a daily basis (parents to children, wives to husbands, husbands to wives , work place, in the home, etc) .
Though leading can be fun, exciting, and definitely has some “perks,” at the end of the day leadership is a burden. But the key to note is that it is a “God ordained and God orchestrated burden” which we are all called to carry in our lives to some degree. The burden of leadership is something given to help us cultivate greater humility and love in our hearts and anyone who has been leading people for a little while knows that it is one of the best gifts that God has given.
Ultimately leadership brings us into a greater dependence upon Him and thus a greater love for Him because when I don' t feel ‘ spiritually or emotionally sound’ and leading people is one of the last things I want to do, I have no other option but to pray and commune with Him. The fact that leading people demands me to do the second commandment leaves me no other option but to do the first commandment and leadership is a lot easier when I do the first commandment first and out of that I do the second commandment second!
The reason I’m stirred about this whole leadership thing is because I’m again freshly seeing the wisdom of God in it as I've started leading six small groups a week with 12-15 different people in each group. Five of the groups are focused on the End Times (E-12 groups) and one of them is focused on Zechariah & Malachi . (My favorite group that I lead is fifteen 10-13 year olds . I have been learning a great deal from them and I love our time together each week) .
I am beginning to see more and more the reasons why He’s given us this “burden.” Two things specifically have been sticking out to me regarding leadership and the fruit that comes from it :
1. Leading small group bible studies is one of the best ways to keep yourself accountable and faithful in your study of the Bible because you have to spend time preparing. In order to initiate and facilitate conversation around a specific book of the Bible or topic, you have to spend time in it before hand or you’ll end up spectating instead of leading and participating. (2 Tim. 2:14-16)
2. Leading people teaches us the value of setting our minds on things above because when you’re leading people you are required to ‘check’ your personal issues at the door and pick them back up on your way out . This also teaches us first hand about the trans forming power of His Word because many times you’ll find that whatever issues you ‘checked’ at the door are gone after you teach/discuss the word for an hour or two. (Ps . 19:7; 119:9, 11; 2 Cor . 4:18)
The law (word) of the LORD is perfect , converting the soul (Ps. 19:7)
No matter whom we’re leading in the different seasons of our lives there are always opportunities for offense and bi tterness to creep in, and many times leadership simply wears people down in their heart s until they finally want to give up on everything completely. This is why it’s so important that we view leading as God’s gift to help us grow in love and humility. It ’s also impor tant that we remember that He will never give us more than we can handle at one time. (Mt . 5:3, 6; 11:6; 2 Cor. 12:9)
"For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. (Mt . 16:25)
If we have the correct mindset about why we’re leading, then we will be able to lead long term with a joyful heart and avoid offense towards God and the people we’re leading. If the Mom who stays at home with her three kids all day, everyday, understands that one of the primary reasons why she’s leading her children is to become more like Christ, then her heart will flourish as she grows more and more in love for Jesus and her children. I invite you to sign up with me again afresh today and embrace the wisdom of God and HIS perfect leadership over our lives!
"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served - but to serve (Mk. 10:45)
-Justin Rizzo-
God’s plan for our lives is that we would be fashioned and formed into His likeness . But because our natural human dynamic is to run in the total opposite direction of this, He hedges us in with many different things to help us. One of the things he hedges us in with is by giving us people to lead. Leadership is one of the fences that God has built around every single person in order to gently guide them into greater depths of love and humility. All of us have a sphere of leadership in which we are leading in some way shape or form on a daily basis (parents to children, wives to husbands, husbands to wives , work place, in the home, etc) .
Though leading can be fun, exciting, and definitely has some “perks,” at the end of the day leadership is a burden. But the key to note is that it is a “God ordained and God orchestrated burden” which we are all called to carry in our lives to some degree. The burden of leadership is something given to help us cultivate greater humility and love in our hearts and anyone who has been leading people for a little while knows that it is one of the best gifts that God has given.
Ultimately leadership brings us into a greater dependence upon Him and thus a greater love for Him because when I don' t feel ‘ spiritually or emotionally sound’ and leading people is one of the last things I want to do, I have no other option but to pray and commune with Him. The fact that leading people demands me to do the second commandment leaves me no other option but to do the first commandment and leadership is a lot easier when I do the first commandment first and out of that I do the second commandment second!
The reason I’m stirred about this whole leadership thing is because I’m again freshly seeing the wisdom of God in it as I've started leading six small groups a week with 12-15 different people in each group. Five of the groups are focused on the End Times (E-12 groups) and one of them is focused on Zechariah & Malachi . (My favorite group that I lead is fifteen 10-13 year olds . I have been learning a great deal from them and I love our time together each week) .
I am beginning to see more and more the reasons why He’s given us this “burden.” Two things specifically have been sticking out to me regarding leadership and the fruit that comes from it :
1. Leading small group bible studies is one of the best ways to keep yourself accountable and faithful in your study of the Bible because you have to spend time preparing. In order to initiate and facilitate conversation around a specific book of the Bible or topic, you have to spend time in it before hand or you’ll end up spectating instead of leading and participating. (2 Tim. 2:14-16)
2. Leading people teaches us the value of setting our minds on things above because when you’re leading people you are required to ‘check’ your personal issues at the door and pick them back up on your way out . This also teaches us first hand about the trans forming power of His Word because many times you’ll find that whatever issues you ‘checked’ at the door are gone after you teach/discuss the word for an hour or two. (Ps . 19:7; 119:9, 11; 2 Cor . 4:18)
The law (word) of the LORD is perfect , converting the soul (Ps. 19:7)
No matter whom we’re leading in the different seasons of our lives there are always opportunities for offense and bi tterness to creep in, and many times leadership simply wears people down in their heart s until they finally want to give up on everything completely. This is why it’s so important that we view leading as God’s gift to help us grow in love and humility. It ’s also impor tant that we remember that He will never give us more than we can handle at one time. (Mt . 5:3, 6; 11:6; 2 Cor. 12:9)
"For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. (Mt . 16:25)
If we have the correct mindset about why we’re leading, then we will be able to lead long term with a joyful heart and avoid offense towards God and the people we’re leading. If the Mom who stays at home with her three kids all day, everyday, understands that one of the primary reasons why she’s leading her children is to become more like Christ, then her heart will flourish as she grows more and more in love for Jesus and her children. I invite you to sign up with me again afresh today and embrace the wisdom of God and HIS perfect leadership over our lives!
"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served - but to serve (Mk. 10:45)
-Justin Rizzo-
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
02-04-09 Scripture
And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell.
James 3:6
James 3:6
02-04-09 Evil Speaking
"Do not speak evil against each other, brethren." James 4:11
That which is here forbidden, is the saying of anything, be it true or false, to the harm of another. God requires that our words should be governed by "the law of kindness" (Proverbs 31:26), and anything which would hurt or injure the reputation of another, is to be rigidly shunned. Whenever I cannot speak well of my brother or sister, I must say nothing at all. To speak evil of others, proceeds from ill will or malice--desiring that they should be made odious in the esteem of others.
It is devilish to take delight in exposing the faults of fellow-Christians, and stirring up prejudice and bitter feelings against them (Rev. 12:10). God requires that our words should agree with love--as well as with truth. Since Christians are brethren, the last thing they should be guilty of is defaming one another!
Except where the glory of God plainly requires it, and the good of that person demands it--we must refrain from all evil speaking of others. If we are duly occupied with and humbled over our own many faults--we shall have neither time nor inclination to dwell upon or publish those of others! If we properly heed the exhortation of Philippians 4:8, we shall cultivate the habit of admiring the graces in our brethren--instead of being like filthy flies, settling on their sores!
-Aurther Pink-1935
Well may we pray, "Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord! Keep watch over the door of my lips!" Psalm 141:3
That which is here forbidden, is the saying of anything, be it true or false, to the harm of another. God requires that our words should be governed by "the law of kindness" (Proverbs 31:26), and anything which would hurt or injure the reputation of another, is to be rigidly shunned. Whenever I cannot speak well of my brother or sister, I must say nothing at all. To speak evil of others, proceeds from ill will or malice--desiring that they should be made odious in the esteem of others.
It is devilish to take delight in exposing the faults of fellow-Christians, and stirring up prejudice and bitter feelings against them (Rev. 12:10). God requires that our words should agree with love--as well as with truth. Since Christians are brethren, the last thing they should be guilty of is defaming one another!
Except where the glory of God plainly requires it, and the good of that person demands it--we must refrain from all evil speaking of others. If we are duly occupied with and humbled over our own many faults--we shall have neither time nor inclination to dwell upon or publish those of others! If we properly heed the exhortation of Philippians 4:8, we shall cultivate the habit of admiring the graces in our brethren--instead of being like filthy flies, settling on their sores!
-Aurther Pink-1935
Well may we pray, "Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord! Keep watch over the door of my lips!" Psalm 141:3
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
02-03-09 Die To Flesh
I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, 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. Gal 2:20
To be “Crucified” means to die to the flesh. When we find ourselves waking up in the morning with thoughts already trying to consume us that are of the flesh, it is evidence that our flesh is at war with our spirit. We want to believe that because we are “saved” that we no longer will be in that battle, but, it is because we have made that conscious decision to follow Christ and repent of our sins that the battle really begins. One preacher stated that “if you truly repented when you turned your life over to Christ, you will be repenting more today”. I grabbed a hold of that statement in a great way and I realized that I am not repenting today for what I already repented for then, but I am repenting for the thoughts and actions that want to lead me astray today. The soul is the battleground and those things that are not pleasing to God will expose themselves. We must continue every day to die to the things of the flesh. Paul said in 1Cor 15:31 “I Die Daily”. I believe that we also must die daily and draw upon the Mercies of God for they are “new” every morning and as David said in 1Chr 21:13, “His Mercies are Very Great”.
The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.
Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy.
But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts.
Romans 13:12-14
Blessings,
Larry
To be “Crucified” means to die to the flesh. When we find ourselves waking up in the morning with thoughts already trying to consume us that are of the flesh, it is evidence that our flesh is at war with our spirit. We want to believe that because we are “saved” that we no longer will be in that battle, but, it is because we have made that conscious decision to follow Christ and repent of our sins that the battle really begins. One preacher stated that “if you truly repented when you turned your life over to Christ, you will be repenting more today”. I grabbed a hold of that statement in a great way and I realized that I am not repenting today for what I already repented for then, but I am repenting for the thoughts and actions that want to lead me astray today. The soul is the battleground and those things that are not pleasing to God will expose themselves. We must continue every day to die to the things of the flesh. Paul said in 1Cor 15:31 “I Die Daily”. I believe that we also must die daily and draw upon the Mercies of God for they are “new” every morning and as David said in 1Chr 21:13, “His Mercies are Very Great”.
The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.
Let us walk properly, as in the day, not in revelry and drunkenness, not in lewdness and lust, not in strife and envy.
But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfill its lusts.
Romans 13:12-14
Blessings,
Larry
Monday, February 2, 2009
02-02-09 Serve Him
This morning I was ready to push the little button that would insert a great quote that I had found and the Thought for Today would have been posted. But as I sit here I realized that I had not asked God if that quote was the appropriate food for the day.
God, what is that I am to deliver to those that will read this? I do not know what they are going through, but God you know…
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Matt 6:33
Why this scripture God? Everyone has heard it and read it? Then I realized that this is truly food for the day for all. Jesus is telling us in Matt 6:25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? In our human nature we sometimes get so consumed, worrying about the daily things we need and if we really take inventory of our thoughts, we are also thinking about tomorrow , next week, and even years down the road..
Today I ask you, and myself, “can we seek after Him and put the energies and thoughts of the problems that we may face today, problems that want to be your master, in His hands? We know we can not serve two masters. Which master will you serve?
Let our thoughts be His thoughts.
Blessings,
Larry
God, what is that I am to deliver to those that will read this? I do not know what they are going through, but God you know…
But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Matt 6:33
Why this scripture God? Everyone has heard it and read it? Then I realized that this is truly food for the day for all. Jesus is telling us in Matt 6:25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? In our human nature we sometimes get so consumed, worrying about the daily things we need and if we really take inventory of our thoughts, we are also thinking about tomorrow , next week, and even years down the road..
Today I ask you, and myself, “can we seek after Him and put the energies and thoughts of the problems that we may face today, problems that want to be your master, in His hands? We know we can not serve two masters. Which master will you serve?
Let our thoughts be His thoughts.
Blessings,
Larry
Sunday, February 1, 2009
02-01-09 Seasons
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
Romans 12:1,2
Caught Between Two Seasons
That we would abandon so fully to Him that we would embrace whatever season He brings us to. I want you to understand that we are constantly being changed. Actually not just changed, because to change means to alter one characteristic, but a “ transformation” is a progressive altering of every characteristic.
Paul said in Romans 12:2- “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed”… It is an act of your will, it is a decision. By the renewing of your mind, then, and only then will you be willing to test and approve what God’s will is, His good, pleasing and perfect will, and that we would begin to see Him for who He really is.
Then we would release a sound to Him, and the world would say, “Give Me that—or I Die”…
-Rita Springer-
Romans 12:1,2
Caught Between Two Seasons
That we would abandon so fully to Him that we would embrace whatever season He brings us to. I want you to understand that we are constantly being changed. Actually not just changed, because to change means to alter one characteristic, but a “ transformation” is a progressive altering of every characteristic.
Paul said in Romans 12:2- “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed”… It is an act of your will, it is a decision. By the renewing of your mind, then, and only then will you be willing to test and approve what God’s will is, His good, pleasing and perfect will, and that we would begin to see Him for who He really is.
Then we would release a sound to Him, and the world would say, “Give Me that—or I Die”…
-Rita Springer-
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