A Spiritual Guide

From Bitterness to Blessings 03.31.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Monday March 31, 2008 and today we are going to study the book of Ruth. The book of Ruth is the 8th book of the Old Testament and contains 4 chapters. The author of the book is unknown, the book was written to the people of Israel and the purpose of the book is to show the historical record of Israel and to illustrate the concern of God for all people. It also illustrates the kinsman-redeemer relationship of Jesus Christ and shows that God can turn bitterness into blessing.

Please read Ruth Chapters 1-4 in your Bible or Click Here to read. In today's study we will read and learn about a famine in the land; Elimelech and Naomi and their move from Bethlehem to Moab; Naomi and Ruth returning to Bethlehem; and the marriage of Boaz and Ruth. Today's message focuses on the importance of learning that no matter what you have in your life, God forgives and will turn any situation around for all who believe.

A severe famine existed in Bethlehem. A man named Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and two sons left Bethlehem, and went to Moab in search of food and, hopefully, a better life and resided in Moab. "Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehemjudah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and his two sons. And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehemjudah. And they came into the country of Moab, and continued there." (Ruth 1:1-2).

However, during the next 10 years Naomi's life was filled with bitterness as unforeseen tragedy struck them in the idol-worshiping country of Moab. Elimelech died, then his sons ignored their Covenant relationship with God and married Ruth and Orpah, who were Moabite women. Sometime later, Mahlon and Chilion also died. The three childless widows were left without a means of support. "And Elimelech Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons. And they took them wives of the women of Moab; the name of the one was Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth: and they dwelled there about ten years. And Mahlon and Chilion died also both of them; and the woman was left of her two sons and her husband. Then she arose with her daughters in law, that she might return from the country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the LORD had visited his people in giving them bread. Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was, and her two daughters in law with her; and they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah." (1:3-7).

God Gives & Takes Away 03.29.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Saturday March 29, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of Judges. Please read Judges 18-19 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read. In today's study we will read and learn about the Danites forcing Micah's Levite to be their priest, attacking&nb sp;Laish and occupying it; and a concubine getting victimized. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that everything can be given and taken away, but God is Eternal.

More than 300 years had passed since Joshua led their forefathers to the promised land. When the promised land was distributed consider able territory was allotted to the tribe of Dan (Joshua 19:40-46). But, submission and obedience to the will of God was missing. As a result, they did not succeed in defeating the inhabitants as God had commanded them to do.

However, the Danties sought another part of the land called Mic ah. "In those days there was no king in Israel: and in those days the tribe of the Danites sought them an inheritance to dwell in; for unto that day all their inheritance had not fallen unto them among the tribes of Israel. And the children of Dan sent of their family five men from their coasts, men of valour, from Zorah, and from Eshtaol, to spy out the land, and to search it; and they said unto them, Go, search the land: who when they came to mount Ephraim, to the house of Micah, they lodged there." (Judges 18:1-2).

There is no indication that the tribe of Dan prayed for forgiveness for their sins or for guidance to do the will of God. Instead of fighting for the territory which God had appointed them, they chose to go north beyond the promised land. It was inhabited by a quiet, peaceful people whom they massacred indiscriminately men , women, and children. If they had remained in the territory which God had appointed them to possess, they would have been close to those who worshiped the One True God. Instead, on the way to their new territory, five spies from their tribe barged into the house of idol-worshiping Micah, stole his gods, and bribed his priest to go with them to fulfill their religious desires. "And the children of Dan went their way: and when Micah saw that they were too strong for him, he turned and went back unto his house. And they took the things which Micah had made, and the priest which he had, and came unto Laish, unto a people that were at quiet and secure: and they smote them with the edge of the sword, and burnt the city with fire. And there was no deliverer, because it was far from Zidon, and they had no business with any man; and it was in the valley that lieth by Bethrehob. And they built a city, and dwelt therein." (18:26-28).

Notice Micah's spiritual concern when his gods were stolen, "Ye have taken away my gods which I made and what have I more?" He thought he had lost the most important thing in his life. Micah illustrates a person who may be sincere but be sincerely wrong. This points out that whatever or whoever a person allows to be his supreme love becomes his god. It may be money, businesses, sports, cars, hunting, or fishing, etc. Nothing on earth which can be stolen can take the place of the True Eternal God. If Christ is truly first in our lives, at our loss we can say, "And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD." (Job 1:21).

We are reminded, "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28).

Today's Psalm: 103:9
"He will not always chide (scold): neither will he keep his anger for ever."

Today's prayer:
Dear Lord,
Help our ears to be alert, our eyes to be open, and our hearts to be perceptive as we follow in Your ways. May we be eager to hear Your teaching and apply it to our lives so that we may be found blameless before You and experience the joy You give to those who follow Your commands. When Your meaning is clear help us to seek no other meaning to satisfy our own desires or to change the clear meaning of Your message. Align our desires with Your own, that we might find genuine peace and wholehearted obedience as You bring spiritual healing to our lives. In Jesus' name, we pray.....Amen.

Have a relaxing and wonderful Saturday and enjoy your weekend.
God Bless,
Christina

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Consequences of Self Gratification 03.28.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Friday March 28, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of Judges. Please read Judges 15-17 in your Bible or Click Here to Read. In today's study we will read and learn about Samson losing his wife; 1,000 Philistines are slain; Delilah; Samson is defeated, blinded, and dies with the Philistines; and Micah's idols. Today's message focuses on the importance of learning that there are consequences when choosing self gratification over God.

There is no record that Samson ever expressed a desire to be used by the Lord to deliver the Israelites from the Philistine's oppression. So it is not a surprise that he neither prayed for guidance nor protection. He also chose the enemies of God for his friends.

Early in life, Samson disregarded the spiritual significance of his Nazarite dedication by marrying a Philistine woman. He became deeply involved in sin as he made friends with Delilah, another Philistine woman. When Samson saw Delilah, he should have thought of his sacred Nazarite vow and his high calling as a judge. But sin had blinded him to the reason he had been gifted with great strength. And, as always, with each person who presumptuously believes that God's mercy and long-suffering will continue indefinitely when we ignore His will, we see Samson yielding to Delilah's schemes and falling into the hands of the Philistines. "And it came to pass afterward, that he loved a woman in the valley of Sorek, whose name was Delilah. And the lords of the Philistines came up unto her, and said unto her, Entice him, and see wherein his great strength lieth, and by what means we may prevail against him, that we may bind him to afflict him; and we will give thee every one of us eleven hundred pieces of silver....And it came to pass, when she pressed him daily with her words, and urged him, so that his soul was vexed unto death; That he told her all his heart, and said unto her, There hath not come a razor upon mine head; for I have been a Nazarite unto God from my mother's womb: if I be shaven, then my strength will go from me, and I shall become weak, and be like any other man. And when Delilah saw that he had told her all his heart, she sent and called for the lords of the Philistines, saying, Come up this once, for he hath shewed me all his heart. Then the lords of the Philistines came up unto her, and brought money in their hand. And she made him sleep upon her knees; and she called for a man, and she caused him to shave off the seven locks of his head; and she began to afflict him, and his strength went from him." (Judges 16:4-5,16-19).

Consequently, the Philistines took him and not only did he suffer the gruesome torture of having his eyes gouged out, he was forced to take the place of an animal and spend his time turning a mill to grind corn into meal. "But the Philistines took him, and put out his eyes, and brought him down to Gaza, and bound him with fetters of brass; and he did grind in the prison house." (17:21). The story of Samson should send a strong message to every Christian who has fallen into the treacherous web of sinful pleasures. Samson is not the only servant of God who ever lost his power through worldliness and self-indulgence, but by faith God is able to turn all things around to give strength to overcome all consequences.

When accept Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord of our lives, our chief concern becomes, "How will this particular situation affect my relationship with my Savior and Lord? How will His new life within me react to my thoughts and actions?" Some conform only to what would be right in his own eyes or acceptable to their friends, forgetting that every one of us shall give account of himself to God. "For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God." (Romans 14:11-12).

In today's study Jesus Christ is revealed through the strength God gave to Samson for his last victory over the Philistines (Judges 16:28-30). "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." (Philippians 4:13).

Today's Psalm: 18:1
"I will love thee, O LORD, my strength."

Today's Prayer (Written from Psalm 18)
Dear Lord,
You are my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. I will call upon You LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies. In Jesus' name, I pray....Amen.

Have a fantastic Friday and weekend.
God Bless,
Christina

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Yield to God 03.27.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday March 27, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of Judges. Please read Judges 12-14 in your Bible or Click Here to read. In today's study we will read about Jephthah's victory over the Ephraimites; Israel under Philistine's control; Samson and his Philistine wife in Timnath. Today's message focuses on the importance of yielding to God from self gratification.

The Israelites did evil in the sight of the Lord once again and became slaves to the Philistines for forty years because of their sins. "And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD; and the LORD delivered them into the hand of the Philistines forty years." (Judges 13:1).

During that time a child was born, "And there was a certain man of Zorah, of the family of the Danites, whose name was Manoah; and his wife was barren, and bare not. And the angel of the LORD appeared unto the woman, and said unto her, Behold now, thou art barren, and bearest not: but thou shalt conceive, and bear a son."(13:2-3) His name was Samson, and unlike Jephthah, Samson had a godly mother and father who desired that their son be fully dedicated to the Lord. "And the woman bare a son, and called his name Samson: and the child grew, and the LORD blessed him. And the Spirit of the LORD began to move him at times in the camp of Dan between Zorah and Eshtaol." (13:24-25). One can observe the marvelous manifestation of God's longsuffering and mercy. He will prepare us so He can use us mightily.

Samson was anointed of God from birth to deliver Israel from the Philistines. Eventually, Samson ruled as a judge. However, early in life, we see his disregard for his holy calling. He was given unlimited opportunities, but his life was filled with failure because of his self-serving desires. His first recorded act of unfaithfulness was friendship with the enemies of God. It seems that Samson was easily distracted with his own physical desires and satisfactions, as in Timnath, when he fell in love with a Philistine woman. "And Samson went down to Timnath, and saw a woman in Timnath of the daughters of the Philistines. And he came up, and told his father and his mother, and said, I have seen a woman in Timnath of the daughters of the Philistines: now therefore get her for me to wife. Then his father and his mother said unto him, Is there never a woman among the daughters of thy brethren, or among all my people, that thou goest to take a wife of the uncircumcised Philistines? And Samson said unto his father, Get her for me; for she pleaseth me well." (14:1-3).

All of us are tempted by the lust of the flesh to gratify physical evils such as sexual sins, drugs, alcohol, gluttony, and similar sins. Every day that we continue in willful sin, Satan's hold becomes stronger, and our chances of deliverance become less likely. Perhaps the greatest deceptive sin is presuming that the long-suffering of God will continue indefinitely.

Samson's life was filled with strife and vain glory, he tried to be somebody without yielding to God. The reason some try to be "somebody" is that they have not yet yielded to Christ as Lord of their lives. Their religion is too self-centered. Christ alone gives our lives value and meaning as He makes us a new creature. "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." (II Corinthians 5:17). Only in the measure in which we allow Christ to guide each hour of our lives shall we be able to truly fulfill His will. We are called upon to be separated from the world with a desire to fulfill the Lord's will. "Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart." (II Timothy 2:22).

In today's study Jesus Christ is revealed through Samson, who, as a Nazarite, he was to be consecrated to God from birth to the day of his death (Judges 13:7). Jesus was also set apart and consecrated to God from birth to the day of His death on the cross. Unlike Samson, who often failed God, Jesus totally fulfilled God's plan.

Today's Psalm: 24:4-5
"He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the LORD, and righteousness from the God of his salvation."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
You know the longings of my heart. When I seek thrills and quick fixes to satisfy these needs I am eventually disappointed. You are the Bread of Life and the Living Water that satisfies the inner desires of my heart because You are the only One who can truly meet my spiritual needs. Lord, as I come today hungry and thirsty I look to You, for You satisfy the thirst and hunger with what I need to yield to You and follow Your will to victory. In Jesus' name, I pray.....Amen.

Have a teriffic Thursday!
God Bless,
Christina

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Controlled By Pride & Greed 03.25.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Tuesday March 25, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of Judges. Please read Judges 8 -- 9 in your Bible or Click Here to read. In today's study we will read about Gideon making an ephod (priests apron); his death; Gideon's son Abimelech murdering 70 of his brothers; and Abimelech's accident and death. Today's message is on the importance of not falling into pride and greed.

Gideon was chosen from the tribe of Manasseh by Jehovah to deliver Israel from the Midianite oppression. Thirty-two thousand men responded to Gideon's call to war; but God chose to use just 300 men to defeat the Midianites. The other Israelites were sent home; and, with only 300 men, God defeated 135,000 Midianite soldiers in battle. "Now Zebah and Zalmunna were in Karkor, and their hosts with them, about fifteen thousand men, all that were left of all the hosts of the children of the east: for there fell an hundred and twenty thousand men that drew sword." (Judges 8:10). This illustrates a twofold principle: God expects man's cooperation, but man cannot overcome his enemies without the wisdom and power of God.

The Israelites urged Gideon to be their king. It was an appeal to his pride. But Gideon knew that it was not he who had saved his people, but God who was their true King. "Then the men of Israel said unto Gideon, Rule thou over us, both thou, and thy son, and thy son's son also: for thou hast delivered us from the hand of Midian. And Gideon said unto them, I will not rule over you, neither shall my son rule over you: the LORD shall rule over you." (8:22-23). Gideon knew that, as a judge of Israel, he would need God to guide him.

Sadly, the Israelites soon forgot that God was the One who had miraculously delivered them from the Midianites. In order to gain power after Gideon's death, his cruel and crafty son Abimelech negotiated a large sum of money from the Baal temple treasury to pay men to help him murder his 70 brothers in order to become King. "And he went unto his father's house at Ophrah, and slew his brethren the sons of Jerubbaal, being threescore and ten persons, upon one stone: notwithstanding yet Jotham the youngest son of Jerubbaal was left; for he hid himself. And all the men of Shechem gathered together, and all the house of Millo, and went, and made Abimelech king, by the plain of the pillar that was in Shechem." (9:5-6). At the moment of Abimelech's proudest achievements, Jotham, the son of Gideon who had escaped execution, warned that they would soon discover that this self-made king would bring suffering and death upon them as well as himself. "And when they told it to Jotham, he went and stood in the top of mount Gerizim, and lifted up his voice, and cried, and said unto them, Hearken unto me, ye men of Shechem, that God may hearken unto you....Thus God rendered the wickedness of Abimelech, which he did unto his father, in slaying his seventy brethren: And all the evil of the men of Shechem did God render upon their heads: and upon them came the curse of Jotham the son of Jerubbaal." (9:7,56-57).

Abimelech is an example of a person controlled by the deceptive and destructive forces of pride, and greed. He was determined to gain selfish ends regardless of whom he destroyed. He is a reminder that God says to Be not deceived for whatsoever a man sows, that shall he also reap. "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting." (Galatians 6:7-8).

In today's studt Jesus Christ is revealed through Gideon, who delivered the Israelites from Midian. (Judges 8:22-23). The Lord Jesus has delivered us out of the hands of our spiritual enemies, and it is fitting that He should rule over us. "Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ, Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:" (Galatians 1:3-4).

Today's Psalm: 36:11-12
"O continue thy lovingkindness unto them that know thee; and thy righteousness to the upright in heart. Let not the foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
I recognize that I have not always lived my life for You. At times I have been controlled by pride and living for myself. Forgive me, Lord. I need You in my life; I want You in my life. Take up residence in my heart and be my king, my Lord, and my Savior. From this day forward help me to understand when I am about to fall from this sin and to come to you. In Jesus' name, I pray...Amen

Have a terrific Tuesday and God Bless You.
Christina

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Feed On Me, 03.24.08

"And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins." (Matthew 26:26-28).

As much as we Christian's love Jesus we can not help ourselves at times to lose our focus on Him. Life takes a turn and all of a sudden we are lost and confused and hungry for some sort of resolution. We starve for a glimpse of hope in that everything will be taken care of.

Of course, that resolution is Jesus and although He does not promise that we will not face struggles, He does promise that He is always with us to lead us into victory over them. The second we accept Jesus into our hearts He sends the Holy Spirit to dwell in us, that is why we suddenly feel at peace. The Holy Spirit never leaves us, but it is up to us to keep the fire burning. It is when that fire begins to smolder that we lose our focus and then Satan begins to get us back into our old way of thinking.

Which is why as we observed the wonderful resurrection of our Lord Jesus yesterday I could not help, but also be excited to know that it was a day of recognition. This was the day that the Lord showed me that all of the past was behind me and was crucified with Jesus on the cross and a new life begins.

All that sadness and depression over things that I can not control were meaningless and only feeding Satan's ego. I was sinning against myself in that I was afraid that the past would repeat itself. I was not letting the past die which kept Jesus from accepting my plea for forgiveness. It was time to let go and let God take control of the situation.

Jesus truly is the bread of life and as long as we feed on Him we are never hungry or thirsty. That is why it is so important to seek Him daily, especially when we do not feel like it. That is a guarantee that Satan sees our struggle and will use it against us. Feeding on Jesus enables us to fight back. I will let you in on a little secret, when I feel that Satan is attacking me I will start screaming at him to get away from me and start singing to Jesus. You know I get the craziest looks...lol, but I also find peace and hope that I will see victory and that is a wonderful feeling. Satan might try and control my thoughts, but he can not control the Holy Spirit that dwells in me and that is what turns those negative thoughts to postive ones.

You too can have victory over the past, Jesus will help you through it, all you have to do is call on Him.

Have a blessed day,
Christina

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Victory by Faith, 03.24.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Moday March 24, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of Judges. Please read Judges 6 -- 7 in your Bible or Click Here to read. In today's study we will read about Israel forsaking God; the Midianites oppressing Israel for seven years; Israel praying for help; God sending Gideon, the prophet; and Gideon destroying the altar of Baal. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that God uses and takes care of all who have faith in Him to do His will.

Once more the Israelites were enslaved, this time by the Midianites, for seven long years the Israelites were worshiping Baal and consequently were suffering under the rule of the Midianites. "And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD: and the LORD delivered them into the hand of Midian seven years. And the hand of Midian prevailed against Israel: and because of the Midianites the children of Israel made them the dens which are in the mountains, and caves, and strong holds.....And Israel was greatly impoverished because of the Midianites; and the children of Israel cried unto the LORD." (Judges 6:1-2, 6). The answer to their prayers began with reproof (chastisement), there was no word of comfort, only reproof. The people were left with the consciousness of their sins and with no hope of relief. They needed to recognize that their miserable suffering was the direct result of disregarding the Word of God. Once they did this, God sent the prophet, Gideon to help.

Gideon questioned God's choice as he was deeply conscious of his poverty and in his own inability, "And there came an angel of the LORD, and sat under an oak which was in Ophrah, that pertained unto Joash the Abiezrite: and his son Gideon threshed wheat by the winepress, to hide it from the Midianites. And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, The LORD is with thee, thou mighty man of valour....And the LORD looked upon him, and said, Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee? And he said unto him, Oh my Lord, wherewith shall I save Israel? behold, my family is poor in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father's house. And the LORD said unto him, Surely I will be with thee, and thou shalt smite the Midianites as one man." (Judges 6:11-12,14-16). Gideon was truly a man of inexperience and uncertainty, but he unconditionally obeyed the Lord regardless of the opposition. We tend to think the only people God can use are those who are popular. But, God wil use anyone regardless of popularity to work for Him.

Gideon's readiness to obey the command of God was a great risk to himself, not only was there an outcry of vengeance from the city against him for destroying the altar of Baal and erecting an altar to God, he also faced opposition from his family. "And the LORD said unto him, Peace be unto thee; fear not: thou shalt not die. Then Gideon built an altar there unto the LORD, and called it Jehovahshalom: unto this day it is yet in Ophrah of the Abiezrites......Then Gideon took ten men of his servants, and did as the LORD had said unto him: and so it was, because he feared his father's household, and the men of the city, that he could not do it by day, that he did it by night. And when the men of the city arose early in the morning, behold, the altar of Baal was cast down, and the grove was cut down that was by it, and the second bullock was offered upon the altar that was built. And they said one to another, Who hath done this thing? And when they enquired and asked, they said, Gideon the son of Joash hath done this thing. Then the men of the city said unto Joash, Bring out thy son, that he may die: because he hath cast down the altar of Baal, and because he hath cut down the grove that was by it." (Judges 6:23-24,27-30).

In our hopeless hour when there seems no way out God is always with us and will guide us through every situation that we get ourselves into. As we respond in faith, God is able to increase our faith that we may recognize that God is in control of every detail of our lives. "Things" that happen to believers are not accidents but incidents to be used of God to develop our faith to fulfill His will. "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy" (I Peter 4:12-13). While Gideon knew he faced much opposition his faith in God helped him achieved God's Will.

Today, it is reassuring to know that Jesus dwells in us and leads us to great things through difficulty. "That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us," (Ephesians 3:16-20).

In today's lesson Jesus Christ is revealed through the Sword of the LORD, "And the three companies blew the trumpets, and brake the pitchers, and held the lamps in their left hands, and the trumpets in their right hands to blow withal: and they cried, The sword of the LORD, and of Gideon." (Judges 7:20). We know that the sword is the Word of God, "And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:" (Ephesians 6:17) and that Jesus is the Word of God that became flesh, "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." (John 1:14).

Today's Psalm: 98:1-3
"O sing unto the LORD a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory. The LORD hath made known his salvation: his righteousness hath he openly shewed in the sight of the heathen. He hath remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel: all the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God."

Today's Prayer,
Dear Lord,
In the maze of life's events where we are often a passenger on the rollercoaster of  ups and downs, may we never lose sight of You, Jesus. You are the unseen, but ever-present Shepherd who protects, guides and tenderly comforts us in all our trouble. Thank You, Lord, that when change is constantly about us, You remain steadfast, faithful, and dependable. You are the Anchor that keeps us grounded in the unseen, but eternal truths we build our lives upon. Thank You, Lord for showing us that You do not care about how much money or friends we have, You love us for who we are and use us and our abilities to reach out to others. In Jesus' name, I pray....Amen.

Have a wonderful Monday and week.
God Bless,
Christina

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God's Faithfulness 03.23.08

It is Sunday March 23, 2008, Resurrection Day also known as Easter and today we are continuing our study on the book of Judges. Please read Judges 3 -- 5 in your Bible or Click Here to read. In today's study we will read about the Israelites intermarrying with Canaanites, and their worshipping false gods, their defeat; and the Lord raises up judges, Othniel, Ehud, and Deborah to deliver Israel from sin. Today's message focuses on the importance of seperation from God from sin and His faithfulness to forgive no matter how many times we fail.

Although Joshua had executed all the Canaanite kings, the Canaanite people still occupied the promised land. "And they were to prove Israel by them, to know whether they would hearken unto the commandments of the LORD, which he commanded their fathers by the hand of Moses." (Judges 3:4).

The first major step in the downfall of the Israelites was their disregard for the Commandments of the LORD. They then became friendly neighbors and dwelled among the Canaanites. The third step in their decline soon followed as they took their daughters to be their wives, and gave their daughters to their sons, and served their gods. The fourth step was inevitable because the Israelites' heathen wives who worshiped idols could not teach their children to worship the One True God. Sadly, the final step was that the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and forgot the LORD and served Baalim. "And the children of Israel dwelt among the Canaanites, Hittites, and Amorites, and Perizzites, and Hivites, and Jebusites: And they took their daughters to be their wives, and gave their daughters to their sons, and served their gods. And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and forgat the LORD their God, and served Baalim and the groves. Therefore the anger of the LORD was hot against Israel, and he sold them into the hand of Chushanrishathaim king of Mesopotamia: and the children of Israel served Chushanrishathaim eight years." (3:5-8).

The outcome was certain. Sin separated the sinner from the protective love of God, and they were soon under the control of an enemy nation. However, after years of suffering the Israelites cried out to the Lord, He heard their cry and deliverd them from their sin. "And when the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer to the children of Israel, who delivered them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother. And the Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he judged Israel, and went out to war: and the LORD delivered Chushanrishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand; and his hand prevailed against Chushanrishathaim." (3:9-10).

Israel's history confirms that, regardless of how far we have backslidden and sinned, our merciful God always hears the prayers of those who confess their sins and commit their lives to Him. Often we are so taken up with condemning ourselves and others when we fall short of being what our heart tells us is right, that we forget that God does love us and never forsakes us. So don't give up, God is with you and He knows you are trying to live righteously, He will forgive you and all you have to do is ask. "Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven." (Matthew 18:21-22).

"Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us." (Romans 8:34).

In today's study Jesus Christ is revealed through Othniel, a deliverer upon whom the Spirit of the Lord rested (Judges 3:9-11). Jesus declared, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised," (Luke 4:18).

Today's Psalm: 85:2
"Thou hast forgiven the iniquity of thy people, thou hast covered all their sin. Selah."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus,
Thank you for everything that you have given me throughout my life. Thank you for Your gift of grace that saves me from sin when I call upon Your name. Jesus, I want to praise You, my great Redeemer, for who You are and for Your acts of kindness seen so many times throughout the day. I never cease to praise You because You never cease to work on my behalf.  Your mercy and love, Your strength and comfort, Your sustaining power and guiding hand are only a tiny fraction of the many reasons that lead me to praise You. Instead of a murmuring and ungrateful attitude, I want to join with the multitude of believers and sing of my Great Redeemer's praise to everyone, everywhere, all the time. In Jesus' name I pray....Amen.

I pray that you had a blessed Easter. Rejoice! The Lord has risen and in You, He will guide you and lead you to great things.

God Bless,
Christina

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Pursuing Visions 03.20.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday March 20, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of Joshua. Please read Joshua 20 -- 21 in your Bible or Click Here to read. In today's study we will read and learn about six cities appointed as places of refuge and officially assigned; 48 cities given to the Levites; and the Israelites possess the land. Today's message focuses on the importance of pursuing visions for you until they are achieved.

Unlike all the other tribes of Israel, Levi was not given separate territory, They were divided into three groups according to the descendants of Levi's three sons, Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. But only those Israelites who were descendants of Levi through Kohath's grandson Aaron could be priests and serve in the Tabernacle. However, even some of these descendants were physically disqualified to be ministers at the altar because of disabilities; and some were spiritually disqualified because they violated one or more of the Commandments. "Then came near the heads of the fathers of the Levites unto Eleazar the priest, and unto Joshua the son of Nun, and unto the heads of the fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel; And they spake unto them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan, saying, The LORD commanded by the hand of Moses to give us cities to dwell in, with the suburbs thereof for our cattle. And the children of Israel gave unto the Levites out of their inheritance, at the commandment of the LORD, these cities and their suburbs." (Joshua 21:1-3).

The priests were responsible for preserving, transcribing, teaching, and interpreting the Law. They were also the civil officers responsible for the administration of the Law. All the Levites, not merely the ones who were responsible for the worship at the Tabernacle, were to receive an equal share of the tithes from the other tribes. Each tribe was to provide for the physical welfare of the priests within its own territory. This was not left up to the goodwill of the people but was a command from God.

Because of their unbelief which caused fear and slothfulness, many of the cities within the promised land were still occupied by various Canaanite kingdoms. Their inheritance was delayed because of their sin. But, Caleb was as enthusiastic as he had been forty-five years earlier when Moses sent him to spy out the land. Many hard years had intervened; yet, his vision and willingness to conquer the Canaanites at age eighty-five had not diminished from when he was forty. He rallied the forces, fought the Canaanites, and declared victory in Hebron. There is only one explanation for his success. Caleb had great faith in God and His power to fulfill His promises. Canaan was a wicked, sinful land whose inhabitants contaminated it by their violence, immorality, and idol worship. God said it was a land which deserved judgment and He called upon the Israelites to execute His judgment.

Today, the land which Christians are to possess is the whole world. Jesus said, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen." (Matthew 28:19-20). With Christ as our King, we are to wage unceasing warfare against evil, in whatever forms it may be found. The nature of warfare is not changed, its conditions remain the same and victory is still its objective. "For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." (I John 5:4). Servants of God are called to root out evil without compromise, "Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good." (Romans 12:21).

In today's lesson Jesus Christ is reveal by By Eleazar, the chief priest, "Then came near the heads of the fathers of the Levites unto Eleazar the priest," (Joshu a 21:1a). Christ is our High Priest,  "Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;" (Hebrews 3:1).

Today's Psalm: 98:1
"O sing unto the LORD a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right hand, and his holy arm, hath gotten him the victory."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Help us to contend with those seeming obstacles that hinder us from pursing our visions. May we patiently endure and prayerfully endear to our hearts the important truths You teach us and lead us to victory. In Jesus' name, I pray...Amen.

Have a great Thursday and God Bless you,
Christina

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Teach Others 03.17.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Monday March 17, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of Joshua. Please read Joshua 11 -- 13 in your Bible or Click Here to read. In today's study we will read and learn about the conquest of the northern kings; Joshua's obedience; the conquered kings; and 2-1/2 tribes settle on the east side of the Jordan River. Today's message focuses on the importance of staying active in our walk with God and teaching others.

Everyone in Jericho knew the reputation of Israel's God, the Canaanite kings also had known what the Gibeonites knew but they decided to defend their heathen gods against the One True God. (Joshua 11-12)

The communication of God with Joshua continued through the dividing of the remainder of the land of Canaan. About 25 years had passed since Israel crossed over Jordan into the promised land; all the kings had been defeated and Canaan was controlled by the Israelites. Yet, the Amorites, Jebuzites, and Hittites were still in possession of much of Canaan. "Now Joshua was old and stricken in years; and the LORD said unto him, Thou art old and stricken in years, and there remaineth yet very much land to be possessed." (13:1).

At this time, the nation of Israel was living for the most part in the mountains and hills. Most of the cities in the valleys had not been conquered but, by faith, Joshua divided the remaining land and claimed it according to the promise of God. By pronouncing the land division, Joshua was warning Israel not to be satisfied with past victories. All the land of promise was theirs but had to be taken by the Israelites in battle with the Canaanites.

The older generation that first entered and defeated many kingdoms within Canaan should have led the way for final conquest. Often Christians, once active in the Lord's service, become inactive and satisfied with past achievements when their years of experience could enable them to render the Church a more valuable service than ever. The experience of years of godly living needs to be taught to those who are just beginning in the Christian faith so they may avoid Satan's pitfalls. Reading God's Word will give spiritual discernment when dealing with today's problems. "Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come." (I Corinthians).

History and Scripture alike join in revealing the truth that whatever you do, do it with all your might. "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest." (Ecclesiastes 9:10).

In today's lesson Jesus Christ is revealed by Moses the servant of the LORD, "Them did Moses the servant of the LORD and the children of Israel smite: and Moses the servant of the LORD gave it for a possession unto the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh." (Joshua 12:6). Jesus was the Servant of God. "Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the Gentiles." (Matthew 12:18).

Today's Psalm: 132:12
"If thy children will keep my covenant and my testimony that I shall teach them, their children shall also sit upon thy throne for evermore."

Today's Prayer,
Dear Lord,
Thank You for blessing us with a new day and thank You for the many blessings thay You give us each and every day. Thank you for Your word that guides us, speak to us, Lord. Teach us. We love you, Jesus. It's so amazing that you are proud of us, even though we haven't done anything to deserve it. We can't do anything to make you more proud of us except to go out into the world and teach others about You. Help us, Lord be the Your servants and give us peace knowing that in doing so that You will bless us with all of our needs. In Jesus' name, I pray.....Amen.

Have a wonderful Monday and week and remember, keep your focus on Jesus and all things are possible.
God Bless,
Christina

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Follow God's Instruction 03.15.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Saturday March 15, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of Joshua. Please read Joshua 7 -- 8 in your Bible ot Click Here to read. In today's study we will read and learn about the sin of Achan; Israel's defeat at Ai; the judgment of Achan; Ai is defeated; the altar on Mount Ebal; a Covenant is renewed; and the Law is read.

One of the most remarkable victories in Israel's history is achieved by the complete destruction of Jericho without having even one Israelite casualty. However, the following day, assuming continued success, Joshua sent spies to assess the strength of Ai, without seeking direction from God, the Israelites attacked the city of Ai only to be defeated by them. "And Joshua sent men from Jericho to Ai, which is beside Bethaven, on the east of Bethel, and spake unto them, saying, Go up and view the country. And the men went up and viewed Ai. And they returned to Joshua, and said unto him, Let not all the people go up; but let about two or three thousand men go up and smite Ai; and make not all the people to labour thither; for they are but few. So there went up thither of the people about three thousand men: and they fled before the men of Ai. And the men of Ai smote of them about thirty and six men: for they chased them from before the gate even unto Shebarim, and smote them in the going down: wherefore the hearts of the people melted, and became as water." (Joshua 7:2-5).

One of the most alarming aspects of this downfall is the revelation that Joshua and all the people were unaware that the Lord was no longer with them. No one seemed to have had the least suspicion that He had withdrawn His blessing from Israel. By not consulting the Lord, Israel's defeat was inevitable. Joshua had momentarily failed to consider that the Lord Himself was their Commander-in-Chief, that He alone could issue orders that would result in success. First, he had to be instructed on how to handle the evil sin by Achan of stealing what belonged to God. "And Joshua said unto Achan, My son, give, I pray thee, glory to the LORD God of Israel, and make confession unto him; and tell me now what thou hast done; hide it not from me. And Achan answered Joshua, and said, Indeed I have sinned against the LORD God of Israel, and thus and thus have I done: When I saw among the spoils a goodly Babylonish garment, and two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold of fifty shekels weight, then I coveted them, and took them; and, behold, they are hid in the earth in the midst of my tent, and the silver under it." (7:19-21).

Then, he had to instructed on how to complete their victory over Ai. "And the LORD said unto Joshua, Fear not, neither be thou dismayed: take all the people of war with thee, and arise, go up to Ai: see, I have given into thy hand the king of Ai, and his people, and his city, and his land: And thou shalt do to Ai and her king as thou didst unto Jericho and her king: only the spoil thereof, and the cattle thereof, shall ye take for a prey unto yourselves: lay thee an ambush for the city behind it." (8:1-2).

The Israelites' reasoning that led to their defeat at Ai has been repeated by most of us. When no serious problems seem to exist, we become overconfident, seemingly self-sufficient, and assume the Lord expects us to use "our own good judgment." However, apart from our submission to the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, the smallest temptation will prove to be too powerful for us. He alone imparts discernment as we read and desire to obey the Word of God. Many begin their Christian lives in prayer and daily Bible reading, but eventually they become self-confident and stop, often causing problems for themselves in order to realize that they have fallen away from God's instruction.

We as Christian's must never let success stop us from our daily Bible reading and prayer. It is that relationship with God that keeps us successful and if God thinks that we do not need Him He will take that success away from us until we realize that we do need Him. In everything that we do we must follow the instruction of God and in doing so we will not only be blessed with success we will also be blessed with all the gifts that God has waiting for us.

In today's lesson Jesus Christ is revealed through the uncut stones of the altar, "As Moses the servant of the LORD commanded the children of Israel, as it is written in the book of the law of Moses, an altar of whole stones, over which no man hath lift up any iron: and they offered thereon burnt offerings unto the LORD, and sacrificed peace offerings." (Joshua 8:31). Daniel saw Christ as a Stone which was not cut by human hands, "Forasmuch as thou sawest that the stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream is certain, and the interpretation thereof sure." (Daniel 2:45). Jesus is our Head of the Corner Stone, "Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded." (I Peter 2:6-8).

Today's Psalm: 16:7
"I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Thank you for blessing us with a new day here on earth and thank you for the many blessings that you give us each second of the day. Lord, there are times that we have been overconfident in ourselves and lose sight of you. We think that we no longer need You to instruct un in everything that we do. Forgive us, Lord. Help us to understand that without You nothing will remain a success and that we need you in every area of our life. Lord, direct our paths and inspire us to do the work which You have given us to do with singleness of heart as Your servants, and for the common good. We ask these things in Jesus' name.....Amen

Have a great Saturday and enjoy your weekend.
God Bless,
Christina

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Crossing the Jordan 03.13.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday March 13, 2008 and today we are beginning our study on the book of Joshua. Please read Joshua 1-3 in your Bible or Click Here to read.
The book of Joshua was written by Joshua to the people of Israel and the purpose of the book is to record the history of their conquest of Canaan and to show that no moral or spiritual victories are won without battles. There are 24 chapters contained in the book and the main characters in the book are Joshua, Rahab, Caleb, Achan, Balaam, Eleazar. In today's study we will read and learn about God speaking to Joshua; the spies that are sent to Jericho; a pledge between the spies and Rahab; Israel crosses the Jordan River. Today's message focuses on the importance of following the will of God even through difficulties.

Joshua was born into Egyptian slavery but, during the desert trials, he became a coworker with Moses. Joshua remained a faithful coworker in submission to Moses, even when the majority threatened to kill him when he urged the nation to advance into Canaan about forty years earlier. (See Numbers 14). Now the Lord spoke to him for the first time, "Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Josh