A Spiritual Guide

Get Out of The Past 05.31.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Saturday May 31, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of II Chronicles. Please read Chapters 31-33 in your bible or Click Here to read.

.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II%20 Chronicles%2031-33&ve rsion=9

Today we will read and learn about Hezekiah destroying all the idols in Judah, the giving of first fruits and tithes, Assyria invading Judah, the death of Hezekiah, his son Manasseh's reign, and Amon's reign. Today's message focuses on the importance of leaving past mistakes in the past. Whether it was something that was done personally or inherited from others, we need to leave the past where it lies.

Hezekiah continues to reform Judah, "Now when all this was finished, all Israel that were present went out to the cities of Judah, and brake the images in pieces, and cut down the groves, and threw down the high places and the altars out of all Judah and Benjamin, in Ephraim also and Manasseh, until they had utterly destroyed them all. Then all the children of Israel returned, every man to his possession, into their own cities." (II Chronicles 31:1).

Blessings By Seeking God First 05.30.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Friday May 30, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of II Chronicles. Please read Chapters 28-30 in your Bible or Click Here to read. biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II%20 Chronicles%2028-30&ve rsion=9

Today we will read and learn about the reign of Ahaz in Judah, thier destroying the Temple and worshipping other gods, Syria and Israel defeating Judah, the death of Ahaz, the reign of Hezekiah, and the restoration of the Temple. Today's message focuses on the importance of seeking God first. While we are faced with many struggles and needs in life God knows every one of them. Seeking Him first will not only help you through each anhd every struggle it will also bless you with all of your needs even more abundantly as you imagine.

Marriage & Christianity 05.28.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Wednesday May 28, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of II Chronicles. Please read Chapters 21-24 in your Bible or Click Here to read. biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II%20 Chronicles%2021-24&ve rsion=9

Today we will read and learn about the reigns of Jehoram, Ahaziah, and Athalian, the prophecy of Elijah, Joash becoming king and restoring the Temple, and the nation turns once again to idolatry. Today's message focuses on the importance of Christian's marrying Christians and the consequences we face by not doing so.

During most of Jehoshaphat's reign, he maintained friendly relations with Ahab, the idol-worshiping king of the northern kingdom. His son's marriage to Ahab's daughter resulted in a heritage of wicked leadership for Judah. However, Jehoshaphat not only brought the wrath of God upon himself, but he also was unable to control the way it affected his sons and his grandchildren. After his death, his son Jehoram took control of the kingdom and he proceeded to destroy all the godly influence of his father's reign. "Now Jehoshaphat slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David. And Jehoram his son reigned in his stead.....Now when Jehoram was risen up to the kingdom of his father, he strengthened himself, and slew all his brethren with the sword, and divers also of the princes of Israel. Jehoram was thirty and two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eight years in Jerusalem. And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, like as did the house of Ahab: for he had the daughter of Ahab to wife: and he wrought that which was evil in the eyes of the LORD." (II Chronicles 21:1,4-6).

Jehoram is a fearful warning to all parents of the importance of their children marrying a godly person. Can a young couple stand side by side before God and take their wedding vows to be perfectly united with each other in all but one thing? Can they have every interest in common except the deepest interest of all? Can they talk about everyone else with the most openhearted confidence except for the most precious and personal of all, the Lord Jesus Christ?

An unequally yoked marriage usually means either a cross to bear for the life of the Christian or that Christian turning back again into the world. It is a serious mistake for a couple considering marriage to have the same interests in everything except their relationship to Christ. You can be sure that there will be a lot of tension if we are not careful who we choose to marry. It is a difficult thing to wait on the Lord for our mate, but how tragic to marry an unbeliever who has no hope of Heaven. "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?" (II Corinthians 6:14).

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through Jehoiada, the high priest, who faithfully hid and protected Joash (II Chronicles 23:1-11). Jesus is our High Priest and we are hidden with Christ in God. "If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory." (Colossians 3:1-4).

Today's Prayer:

Dear Lord,
Help us build a Christ-centered home, with teaching of Your Holy Word as our golden text for living. Help us to instill love for acquiring knowledge and imparting wisdom.  May we be living examples of committed believers demonstrating those character qualities that bring glory and honor to You. May Christ’s presence permeate our conversation and synchronize our hearts and help us choose the right relationships that help us grow closer to You. In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a great and wonderful Wednesday!
God Bless,
Christina

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All of our relationships should be guided by the Scriptures, "Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you." (II Corinthians 6:14-17). All too often our children are affected by our disobedience to God's Word. That's why we must teach them His Word and own up to our failures.

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through Micaiah, who told the truth even though it was unpopular with his listeners (II Chronicles 18:12-27). We are reminded of Christ when He spoke the unpopular truth to the Pharisees (Matthew 12:1-14).

Today's Psalm: 7:1

"O LORD my God, in thee do I put my trust: save me from all them that persecute me, and deliver me:"

Today's Prayer:

Dear Lord,
When we consider how many struggles, hardships and temptations we face in our lifetime the weight of these difficulties could overwhelm us. Watch over us, guide us, and give us the strength to follow Your will and not get caught up in making the wrong decisons that could cause consequences later on for me or my family. In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a great and wonderful Tuesday!

God Bless,
Christina

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Indwelling Spirit 05.23.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Friday May 23, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of II Chronicles. Please read Chapters 4-6 in your Bible or Click Here to read. biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II%20 Chronicles%204-6&vers ion=9

Today we will read and learn about furnishings in the Temple, The cloud of the Lord filling the Temple, and Solomons prayer of dedication. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that by accepting Jesus into our lives He indwells in us for eternity and our lives will not be the same.

Much time and effort were given in preparation for the dedication of the Temple which had taken about 7-1/2 years to build (See I Kings 6:37-38). The Ark reached its intended resting place within the Holy of Holies. Perhaps no event has ever equaled this momentous occasion. "Wherefore all the men of Israel assembled themselves unto the king in the feast which was in the seventh month. And all the elders of Israel came; and the Levites took up the ark. And they brought up the ark, and the tabernacle of the congregation, and all the holy vessels that were in the tabernacle, these did the priests and the Levites bring up. Also king Solomon, and all the congregation of Israel that were assembled unto him before the ark, sacrificed sheep and oxen, which could not be told nor numbered for multitude. And the priests brought in the ark of the covenant of the LORD unto his place, to the oracle of the house, into the most holy place, even under the wings of the cherubims: For the cherubims spread forth their wings over the place of the ark, and the cherubims covered the ark and the staves thereof above." (II Chronicles 5:3-8).

As they went up the hill, they sang, "Also the Levites which were the singers, all of them of Asaph, of Heman, of Jeduthun, with their sons and their brethren, being arrayed in white linen, having cymbals and psalteries and harps, stood at the east end of the altar, and with them an hundred and twenty priests sounding with trumpets:) It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD; and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of musick, and praised the LORD, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of the LORD; So that the priests could not stand to minister by reason of the cloud: for the glory of the LORD had filled the house of God." (5:12-14).

This awe-inspiring Ark contained the original Commandments from Moses. These were to be a constant reminder of God's Covenant with Israel and to make them a holy nation. In the first four of the Ten Commandments we have commands regarding man's relationship to God. All ten were summarized here, "Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself." (Luke 10:27). We can not meet such demands without the new birth and the indwelling Holy Spirit. "Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God." (John 3:3-5).

As soon as a person is born of God he possesses the indwelling life of God and, as he meditates daily upon His Word be assured that the Lord will impart the knowledge of His will. "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me." (Galatians 2:20).

Likewise, when one receives the life of Christ and submits himself to the Law of the Spirit of Life, then one's behavior will be an ever-increasing manifestation of Christ and His knowledge. "Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? but we have the mind of Christ." (I Corinthians 2:12-16).

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through Solomon's prayer when he said: There is no God like You . (II Chronicles 6:14). Jesus is that God, "For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time." (I Timothy 2:5-6).

Today's Psalm: 23:6
"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Jesus, as we earnestly seek and follow You our minds are being renewed daily.  Our ambitions, goals, and affections are being transformed into Your likeness.  With You indwelling in us, the ways of the world have less grip as we transfix our thoughts upon, You, the Author and Finisher of our faith. It is in dying to the world that we become alive unto You and it is through Your mercy that we offer our lives today as living sacrifices.  In Jesus' name......Amen.

Have a great and wonderful Friday! Are you ready for a nice long weekend? I know I am.

God Bless,
Christina

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Pray With Thanksgiving 05.21.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Wednesday May 21, 2008 and today we are completing our studies on the book of I Chronicles. Please read Chaptes 27-29 in your Bible or Click Here to read.

Today we will read and learn about Solomon encouraged from his father to build the Temple; David's gifts for the Temple; his thanks and prayer; Solomon ordained as king; and David's death. Today's message focuses on the importance of praying with thanksgiving and praise no matter what difficulties we face.

In his last year, David assembled all the tribal princes and military captains. "And David assembled all the princes of Israel, the princes of the tribes, and the captains of the companies that ministered to the king by course, and the captains over the thousands, and captains over the hundreds, and the stewards over all the substance and possession of the king, and of his sons, with the officers, and with the mighty men, and with all the valiant men, unto Jerusalem." (I Chronicles 28:1).

He then told them how God had chosen Solomon to build His Temple and that their greatest concern should be to be obedient to the Lord, "Now therefore in the sight of all Israel the congregation of the LORD, and in the audience of our God, keep and seek for all the commandments of the LORD your God: that ye may possess this good land, and leave it for an inheritance for your children after you for ever. And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever." (28:8-9).

David then offered one of the most inspiring prayers recorded in the Scriptures, "Thine, O LORD is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name." (29:11-13).

David's heartfelt prayer is a reminder to all of us that prayer should be a time of praising and worshiping God with thanksgiving for who He is, as well as for what He has given us. As we recognize our total dependence upon God for everything, we will praise Him for His provision. When we neglect to praise the Lord daily, our worship often becomes a mere ritual. Every day, under every circumstance we are to praise and give thanks to the Lord. "Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ." (I Thessalonians 5:16-23).

Kneeling, bowing the head, and stretching forth hands are all expressions of worship. David was inspired by the Holy Spirit to write, "Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the LORD." (Psalm 134:2).

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through the gold offered for the Temple by David from his personal wealth (I Chronicles 29:3-5). Gold is the purest metal as it can be refined to transparency (Rev. 21:21) and represents the preciousness and great worth of Christ.

Today's Psalm: 134:1
"Behold, bless ye the LORD, all ye servants of the LORD, which by night stand in the house of the LORD."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Thine, O LORD is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name. In Jesus name, I pray....Amen. 

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

God Bless,
Christina

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God Will Supply 05.20.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Tuesday May 20, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of I Chronicles. Please read Chapters 24-26 in your Bible or Click Here to read.

Today we will read and learn about the duties assigned to priests; musicians and singers; the divisions of the porters (gatekeepers); the treasurers and other officials. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that no task is too small for God. He will bless all who serve Him and will supply us with all of our needs.

David seperated all the workers of the Temple who were entrusted with nonpriestly responsibilities required for worship in the Temple. He instituted this method for the 24,000 Levites to avoid any favoritism. This division of duties was still in effect in the time of Christ. "Moreover David and the captains of the host separated to the service of the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who should prophesy with harps, with psalteries, and with cymbals: and the number of the workmen according to their service was:" (I Chronicles 25:1)

The porters (gatekeepers) were called able men, "All these of the sons of Obededom: they and their sons and their brethren, able men for strength for the service, were threescore and two of Obededom." (26:8). Every position was equally important to maintain worship in the Temple as required by the Lord. Today, there are no unimportant tasks in the Church (the Body of Christ). The ministries dedicated to fulfilling the Great Commission are also a sacred responsibility from God.

Earlier, David had planned to make Jerusalem the religious center of Israel by bringing the Ark of the Covenant there. After Uzzah was struck dead for touching the Ark, it was taken to the home of Obed-edom. When he received the Ark containing the Word of God, he also received the very presence of God who dwelt above its Mercy Seat. (I Chronicles 13:7-11). God greatly blessed Obed-edom during the time the Ark of the Covenant was in his home. In like manner, the presence of the Lord will also bless our families and homes when the Word of God is prominent in our lives. "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. 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 1:12-14). The more our thoughts are occupied with Christ and His Word, the more we realize His presence.

God will bless all who allow Christ and His Word to come first in our lives. Just before He ascended into heaven declared All power is given to me in heaven and earth, "And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 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 28:18-20).

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through the Temple treasures (I Chronicles 26:20-28).  In Christ are treasures of wisdom, knowledge, and riches to supply all a believer needs. "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:19).

Today's Psalm: 12:4-6
"Who have said, With our tongue will we prevail; our lips are our own: who is lord over us? For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him. The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord, 
I know that contentment with godliness is of great benefit.  It brings about a lasting peace and grateful heart that only You can give.  Help me not to focus so much on the material possessions that I lose sight of that which is of vital importance.  May the character of my soul and the fruit of my actions be of much greater importance than the perishable goods that capture my attention.  I look to You for proper balance in the things You have blessed me with and the attitude in which I receive these good things from Your hands. In Jesus' name, I pray.....Amen.

Have a wonderful Tueday and God Bless you, Christina

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Serve God Accordingly 05.17.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Saturday May 17, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of I Chronicles. Please read Chapters 14-16 in your Bible or  Click Here to read.

In today's message we will read and learn about King Hiram's kindness to David; the Philistines defeat; the Ark brought to Jerusalem; and David's psalm of thanksgiving. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that when serving God that we need to do it wholeheartedly and according to His will.

During the forty years that Saul reigned over Israel, the Ark was ignored. But when David became king, he was deeply concerned that the Ark ( which was above where God's presence dwelt) have a central place in his kingdom. "And David made him houses in the city of David, and prepared a place for the ark of God, and pitched for it a tent. Then David said, None ought to carry the ark of God but the Levites: for them hath the LORD chosen to carry the ark of God, and to minister unto him for ever. And David gathered all Israel together to Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the LORD unto his place, which he had prepared for it." (I Chronicles 15:1-3).

David first attempted to bring the Ark to Jerusalem on a new cart drawn by oxen, but this was a violation of the Law of God (Exodus 25:13-15; Numbers 4:15; 7:9). As Uzzah reached out to steady the tilting Ark on the cart, he was struck dead (II Samuel 6:1-8).

On the second occasion David gathered all Israel together to Jerusalem, to bring up the Ark of the Lord unto his place, which he had prepared for it. David carefully obeyed God's Word, telling the priests to sanctify themselves and bear the Ark of God upon their shoulders as Moses commanded according to the Word of the Lord. "And David called for Zadok and Abiathar the priests, and for the Levites, for Uriel, Asaiah, and Joel, Shemaiah, and Eliel, and Amminadab, And said unto them, Ye are the chief of the fathers of the Levites: sanctify yourselves, both ye and your brethren, that ye may bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel unto the place that I have prepared for it. For because ye did it not at the first, the LORD our God made a breach upon us, for that we sought him not after the due order. So the priests and the Levites sanctified themselves to bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel. And the children of the Levites bare the ark of God upon their shoulders with the staves thereon, as Moses commanded according to the word of the LORD." (15:11-15).

Soon after establishing his capital in Jerusalem, David united the nation for a glorious time of praising the Lord while bringing the Ark of God from the house of Obed-edom to Jerusalem. "So David, and the elders of Israel, and the captains over thousands, went to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of the house of Obededom with joy." (15:25).

To demonstrate his reverence for God, and in recognition that God was the Supreme Ruler, David humbly laid aside his kingly garments and dressed in a plain linen ephod, a garment the priests wore when ministering before the Lord. In doing this, "And David was clothed with a robe of fine linen, and all the Levites that bare the ark, and the singers, and Chenaniah the master of the song with the singers: David also had upon him an ephod of linen. Thus all Israel brought up the ark of the covenant of the LORD with shouting, and with sound of the cornet, and with trumpets, and with cymbals, making a noise with psalteries and harps." (15:27-28). David was publicly acknowledging his submission to the authority of the supreme King and expressing adoration and praise to his Lord as Almighty God and the true King of Israel.

On that day, David provided an inspiring psalm for his choir to sing, (See I Chronicles 16:8-31). Today, it still lifts our spirits as we worship our wonderful Lord.

Is it any surprise that David was a man after God's own heart ?
Yes, the Lord reigns. He is sovereign and the world needs to hear us praise the Lord, talk of all His wondrous works, and see us living in obedience to Him.

God's work must be done His way and not in our way, if we are not following His Instruction He will face us with difficulties until we see that we are not following His commands. It is only as we serve the Lord according to His Word that we enjoy His presence and receive His blessing. "And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain. Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: For our God is a consuming fire." (Hebrews 12:27-29).

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through David's fame and exaltation (I Chronicles 14:17). God highly exalted Christ, our Redeemer, and gave Him a Name which is above every name. (Philippians 2:9-11).

Today's Psalm: 92:1-2
"IT IS A GOOD THING TO GIVE THANKS UNTO THE LORD, AND TO SING PRAISES UNTO THY NAME, O MOST HIGH: To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night,"

Have a great and wonderful Saturday and enjoy the rest of your weekend.
God Bless You,
Christina

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Patience & Perseverance 05.16.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Friday May 16, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of I Chronicles. Please read Chapters 11-13 in your Bible or Click Here to read.

Today we will read and learn about David being made king over Judah; all of Israel anointing David king; and his reigns in Jebus (Jerusalem). Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that no matter how big things look with patience and perseverance through God all things are possible.

David did not see any possibility that he could ever be king of Israel when Saul, the first anointed king of Israel, with all his authority and other resources, was determined to kill him. Saul was also far from being an old man, and he had sons who were the expected heirs to the throne. However, a new era in the life of David begins as he is finally anointed king over both Judah and Israel. "Then all Israel gathered themselves to David unto Hebron, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh. And moreover in time past, even when Saul was king, thou wast he that leddest out and broughtest in Israel: and the LORD thy God said unto thee, Thou shalt feed my people Israel, and thou shalt be ruler over my people Israel. Therefore came all the elders of Israel to the king to Hebron; and David made a covenant with them in Hebron before the LORD; and they anointed David king over Israel, according to the word of the LORD by Samuel. And David and all Israel went to Jerusalem, which is Jebus; where the Jebusites were, the inhabitants of the land." (I Chronicles 11:1-4).

The ten tribes of the Northern Kingdom did not decide to make David king even after Saul and his sons were killed, not until Abner and Ishbosheth were both dead. They waited until there was no one left who belonged to the house of Saul except crippled Mephibosheth, who was then only twelve years old. When it appeared they had no other choice, they anointed and desired that David be their king.

In many respects, David's problems parallel situations that some of us face today. Just as surely as the Lord gives us a desire to accomplish something for His honor, obstacles will appear. It may be a financial situation that seems hopeless or simply a feeling of inability to cope with problems. For some of us, not much opposition is needed before we feel there is no use in trying. Whatever the case, overcoming these difficulties may seem as impossible for us as it was to David becoming king.

When one recognizes God's authority and yields to His will, then he will see that all personal influence and abilities of every kind are gifts of the sovereign God, bestowed lovingly by Him for rewards in heaven for all eternity. It meant waiting patiently many years and going through difficult circumstances.

The Lord never promised an easy road for any of His followers. In fact, Jesus said, "And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." (Luke 9:23). The way of the cross is often long and lonely and it is never popular. Once we submit to the authority of Christ over our lives, we will patiently look to Him for direction and strength. "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed." (James 1:22-25). It is not what we do for God that matters, but how faithful we are when doing it that matters.

Discover Your Talents 05.15.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday May 15, 2008 and today we are continuing out studies on the book of 1 Chronicles. Please read Chapters 8-10 in your Bible or Click Here to read.

Today we will read and learn about the descendants of Benjamin; the priests and Levites in Jerusalem and their responsibilities; the genealogy of Saul; and the tragic deaths of Saul and his sons. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that we all have special talents that God has given us and no matter how small they seem, they are important to God.

The Chronicles were especially written to encourage Jews who were to reconstruct the Jewish national and religious life in Judea. Only a small minority of Israelites were willing to leave the comforts of the new Persian kingdom and return to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple. "So all Israel were reckoned by genealogies; and, behold, they were written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah, who were carried away to Babylon for their transgression. Now the first inhabitants that dwelt in their possessions in their cities were, the Israelites, the priests, Levites, and the Nethinims. And in Jerusalem dwelt of the children of Judah, and of the children of Benjamin, and of the children of Ephraim, and Manasseh;" (I Chronicles 9:1-3).

These people had all returned to rebuild the Temple, "And their brethren, heads of the house of their fathers, a thousand and seven hundred and threescore; very able men for the work of the service of the house of God......And the porters were, Shallum, and Akkub, and Talmon, and Ahiman, and their brethren: Shallum was the chief; Who hitherto waited in the king's gate eastward: they were porters in the companies of the children of Levi.....And certain of them had the charge of the ministering vessels, that they should bring them in and out by tale. Some of them also were appointed to oversee the vessels, and all the instruments of the sanctuary, and the fine flour, and the wine, and the oil, and the frankincense, and the spices." (9:13,17-18,2 8-29). The work of the Nethinims (overseeing the vessels) may seem rather insignificant, it was essential work that needed to be done for the Lord. Loyalty to their heavenly King made them willing to work and to serve wherever needed.

Some of the responsibilities appear to be of little importance, but God esteemed each responsibility as indispensable and worthy of recording and, collectively, all tasks were necessary to fulfill the service to the Lord in the Tabernacle. Regardless of the seeming importance or insignificance of our abilities, they are a sacred trust from God. The Lord does not expect the person who is given one talent to fulfill the responsibility of the person who has five talents, but, though his talents may be minimal, everyone can do something. "For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey." (Matthew 25:14-15).

We are reminded to be faithful stewards of our lives and the abilities and opportunities that God has entrusted to us. "Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God; And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ." (Colossians 3:22-24).

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through Jerusalem, which means "foundation (possession) of peace" (I Chronicles 9:3). Christ is the only foundation of peace upon which man can stand before God.

Today's Psalm: 102:25-26
"Of old hast thou laid the foundation of the earth: and the heavens are the work of thy hands. They shall perish, but thou shalt endure: yea, all of them shall wax old like a garment; as a vesture shalt thou change them, and they shall be changed:"

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
You have called us, Your servants, to exercise our talents to the contributing&nbs p;of the needs of others, leading, and being vessels of Your mercy. Help us not to be fearful or timid in exercising our talents that flow from Your power within us, since it is not for our own glory, but rather for the building up of the body of Christ.  We are inadequate within ourselves, but fully sufficient according to the grace given to us through Your Holy Spirit. We seek affirmation from You, the opportunities You provide us, to confirm our talents and to use them for You. In Jesus' name........Amen.

Have a wonderful Thursday!
God Bless you,
Christina

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A Child of God 05.12.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Monday May 12, 2008 and today we begin our study on the book of I Chronicles. The book of I Chronicles is the thirteenth book of the Old testament and contains 29 chapters. The author of the book is unknown, but could possibly be Ezra and was written to Israel. The purpose of the book is the record of the religious history of Judah and to and to show that when God is exalted (acknowledged) His people are blessed.

Please read I Chronicles Chapters 1-2 in your Bible, or Click Here to read. In today's reading we will learn about the geneolgy from Adam to the descendants of Judah. Today's message focuses on the lineage leading to the birth of Jesus, we are blessed to be children of God and He wants to personally be involved in every one of our lives. He desires to guide us through every detail, but He also blesses us with the gift of free will either to do His or follow the world.

I Chronicles opens with the longest genealogical record in the Bible and covers about 4000 years before Christ (chapters 1 -- 9). Its second chapter is devoted to the descendants of Judah because the promised Messiah would descend from this tribe. The first nine chapters of I Chronicles may first appear to be an unimportant list of names. But, this ancient genealogy reveals the exact plan and choices of our Creator in selecting the people whom He qualified to serve Him.

The record begins with Adam, the first man created by God, "Adam, Sheth, Enosh, Kenan, Mahalaleel, Jered, Henoch, Methuselah, Lamech, Noah, Shem, Ham, and Japheth." (I Chronicles 1:1-4). Then to Abraham, Issac, and Jacob, here Jacob is called his God given name, Israel, "And Abraham begat Isaac. The sons of Isaac; Esau and Israel." We learn later on of the lineage of David (Chpater 3). Abraham and David were ancestors of both Joseph and Mary. The royal Davidic lineage of Jesus as the Messiah is traced to Joseph in Matthew and the actual human bloodline is traced through Mary in Luke.

Reconize False Gods 05.11.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Sunday May 11, 2008 and today we are completing our studies on the book of II Kings. Please read Chapters 23-25 in your Bible or Click Here to read.

Today we will read and learn about Passover being restored; the destruction of Jerusalem and Temple being foretold; the death of Josiah; the fall of Jerusalem; and the captivity of Judah. Today's message focuses on the importance of reconizing false gods and putting our trust and faith on our One True God.

Josiah was the last godly king of Judah before the destruction of Jerusalem, "And the king sent, and they gathered unto him all the elders of Judah and of Jerusalem. And the king went up into the house of the LORD, and all the men of Judah and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem with him, and the priests, and the prophets, and all the people, both small and great: and he read in their ears all the words of the book of the covenant which was found in the house of the LORD. And the king stood by a pillar, and made a covenant before the LORD, to walk after the LORD, and to keep his commandments and his testimonies and his statutes with all their heart and all their soul, to perform the words of this covenant that were written in this book. And all the people stood to the covenant." (II Kings 23:1-3)

Josiah went beyond Judah, into the Assyrian-controlled former northern kingdom to Bethel, where Jeroboam had built one of the golden calves, this was propheized almost 300 years ago. ( I Kings 13:1-3). "And he brake in pieces the images, and cut down the groves, and filled their places with the bones of men. Moreover the altar that was at Bethel, and the high place which Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin, had made, both that altar and the high place he brake down, and burned the high place, and stamped it small to powder, and burned the grove. And as Josiah turned himself, he spied the sepulchres that were there in the mount, and sent, and took the bones out of the sepulchres, and burned them upon the altar, and polluted it, according to the word of the LORD which the man of God proclaimed, who proclaimed these words." (23:14-16).

Just twenty-three years after the death of Josiah, the Southern Kingdom of Judah was defeated and Jerusalem and the Temple were destroyed. Under the reigns of its last four kings, who were mere puppets of Egypt and then Babylon, it was trodden down by successive conquests and the pitiful deportations into heathen lands. Jerusalem was invincible while its people were obedient to the Word of God. But eventually it became powerless because of sin. As a result of unfaithfulness and continued disobedience to the Word of God by its national immorality and violence, they were reduced to suffering and loss of everything.

Nebuchadnezzar, with an immense army, swept down upon the northern parts of the country and marched directly against Jerusalem to beseige it. At length, the city was reduced to starvation. King Zedekiah, with his wives, children, and guards, fled through an opening that was made in the wall, but they were captured in the plains of Jericho. "And it came to pass in the ninth year of his reign, in the tenth month, in the tenth day of the month, that Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came, he, and all his host, against Jerusalem, and pitched against it; and they built forts against it round about. And the city was besieged unto the eleventh year of king Zedekiah. And on the ninth day of the fourth month the famine prevailed in the city, and there was no bread for the people of the land. And the city was broken up, and all the men of war fled by night by the way of the gate between two walls, which is by the king's garden: (now the Chaldees were against the city round about:) and the king went the way toward the plain." (25:1-4).

Zedekiah was forced to witness the horrifying death of his family; then his own eyes were gouged out and he was forced to walk more than 800 miles in chains to Babylon (II Kings 25:7). The agonizing ordeal fulfilled two prophecies that had appeared contradictory: Zedekiah would be taken to Babylon, but would not see it.

How gruesome pathetic was the fall of the once-wonderful Kingdom of Judah. At that time in history, only Judah was known as the worshipers of Jehovah God and the prophets that God used to provide the Old Testament dwelt there. We need to see the handwriting on the wall. The United States is recognized as worshipers of the One True God. But our sins betray our trust.

This great nation known throughout the world as a Christian nation cannot survive the rejection of God and His righteousness. America, like the Kingdom of Judah, is experiencing similar sins before its destruction. We are reminded, "Thou art wearied in the multitude of thy counsels. Let now the astrologers, the stargazers, the monthly prognosticators, stand up, and save thee from these things that shall come upon thee. Behold, they shall be as stubble; the fire shall burn them; they shall not deliver themselves from the power of the flame: there shall not be a coal to warm at, nor fire to sit before it. Thus shall they be unto thee with whom thou hast laboured, even thy merchants, from thy youth: they shall wander every one to his quarter; none shall save thee." (Isaiah 47:13-15).

God's Spirit In All 05.10.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Saturday May 10, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of II Kings. Please read Chaoters 21-22 in your Bible or Click Here to read. www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II%20 Kings%2021-22&version =9

Today we will read and learn about the evil reigns of Manasseh and Amon; Josiah's good reign; the Book of the Law being discovered; true worship being restored; and idolatry being destroyed. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that God's Spirit is in all who have trusted Jesus as their saviour.

Hezekiah was one of the best kings in the history of Judah; but his son Manasseh was even more wicked than Hezekiah's father Ahaz. "Manasseh was twelve years old when he began to reign, and reigned fifty and five years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Hephzibah. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, after the abominations of the heathen, whom the LORD cast out before the children of Israel. For he built up again the high places which Hezekiah his father had destroyed; and he reared up altars for Baal, and made a grove, as did Ahab king of Israel; and worshipped all the host of heaven, and served them. And he built altars in the house of the LORD, of which the LORD said, In Jerusalem will I put my name. And he built altars for all the host of heaven in the two courts of the house of the LORD. And he made his son pass through the fire, and observed times, and used enchantments, and dealt with familiar spirits and wizards: he wrought much wickedness in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger." (II Kings 21:1-6).

Manasseh's wickedness resulted in Judah being defeated and captured by the fierce Assyrians. (See II Chronicles 33). However, after pleading with God the Lord permitted him to return to Jerusalem and be reinstated as king. This was an answer to Manasseh's prayers for mercy and forgiveness, as well as to the prayers of his godly father Hezekiah many years before.

God forgives even the most evil of sinners when they truly repent and pray for forgiveness. Upon being restored as king, Manasseh immediately destroyed the false gods and altars he had previously built and rebuilt the Temple's altar and returned to true worship of the Lord. But Manasseh could not relive the wasted years of his wicked rule nor even convince his own son to reject idols and worship the Lord. After Manasseh's death, his son Amon reinstated all the wicked, idolatrous practices of his father's earlier reign. "Amon was twenty and two years old when he began to reign, and he reigned two years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Meshullemeth, the daughter of Haruz of Jotbah. And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD, as his father Manasseh did. And he walked in all the way that his father walked in, and served the idols that his father served, and worshipped them: And he forsook the LORD God of his fathers, and walked not in the way of the LORD." (21:19-22).

The third King mentioned in these chapters, Hezekiah's great-grandson, was noted as one of the most godly of all the kings. Josiah, walked not in the ways of evil as his father did, but walked with God. "Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned thirty and one years in Jerusalem. And his mother's name was Jedidah, the daughter of Adaiah of Boscath. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in all the way of David his father, and turned not aside to the right hand or to the left." (22:1-2).

Though little is known of Huldah, the prophetess, she had great influence in Jerusalem. Hilkiah, the high priest and king Josiah recognized her prophetic gift and sought spiritual guidance from her. "And she said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Tell the man that sent you to me, Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, and upon the inhabitants thereof, even all the words of the book which the king of Judah hath read: Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke me to anger with all the works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be kindled against this place, and shall not be quenched." (22:15-17)

God is no respecter of persons or sex in the distribution of His precious gifts. Unlike religions which disregard the equality of women, the Bible reveals a respect and regard for them as evidenced by Huldah, the prophetess during the days when the Word of God was discovered in the Temple, as well as the four daughters of Philip, the evangelist in the New Testament who also prophecied (Acts 21:8-9). Earlier God had said, "And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit." (Joel 2:28-29).

Today, God's Spirit indwells in each and every person who believes that Jesus died for us. "And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him." (Romans 5:5-9)

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through the prophets (II Kings 21:10). "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;" (Hebrews 1:1-2).

Today's Psalm: 55:11
"Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Lord Jesus, I am full of gratitude today as I consider Your abiding presence in my life.  You planned my existence in my mother's womb before I even drew my first breath.  When so many people have come into my life and exited it throughout the years You have taken up residence and You forever rule my heart.  When the path before me was unclear You have always gone before me sustaining me in my wilderness journey. Though all forsake me You remain faithful, and remarkable as it seems, even if we are faithless, You will remain faithful, for You cannot deny Yourself.  Thank You for being my Supreme Savior and the Sustainer of my soul. In Jesus' Name.....Amen.

Have a great day and enjoy the rest of your weekend.
God Bless,

Christina

P.S. I apologize for not getting this out Saturday.

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Miracles of God 05.09.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Friday May 9, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of II Kings. Please read Chapters 18-20 in your Bible or Click Here to read. biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II%20 Kings%2018-20&version =9

Today we will read and learn about Hezekiah's reign; Assyria invading Judah; Hezekiah and Isaiah praying; and Hezekiah's miraculous healing. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that we are blessed when we obey God's commands and that God still produces miracles even today.

Now, Hezekiah becan to reign in Judah, "Now it came to pass in the third year of Hoshea son of Elah king of Israel, that Hezekiah the son of Ahaz king of Judah began to reign. Twenty and five years old was he when he began to reign; and he reigned twenty and nine years in Jerusalem. His mother's name also was Abi, the daughter of Zachariah. And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that David his father did." (II Kings 18:1-3).

When Hezekiah became king, he did not follow the ways of his evil father Ahaz; instead, he believed the prophets of God, including the unpopular Micah. "He trusted in the LORD God of Israel; so that after him was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor any that were before him. For he clave to the LORD, and departed not from following him, but kept his commandments, which the LORD commanded Moses." (18:5-6). Hezekiah not only benefited from the ministry of Micah, but he also gained spiritual encouragement from the prophet Isaiah.

Hezekiah led the nation to keep the Passover and to renew its covenant with the Lord. Hezekiah's spiritual reformation was followed by a radical reorganization of the entire administration of both the secular and religious affairs of the kingdom. We learn from Hezekiah that people will be blessed, and prayers will be answered, when the Word of God is obeyed.

The greatest opposition to Isaiah, Micah, and Hezekiah's reformation did not come from the pagan nations around Judah. It came from the false prophets within their own country, as well as those who worshiped the idols which had been introduced earlier by King Solomon. Some popular religious leaders today seem to do nothing to encourage people to forsake their sins, live godly lives, and read the Bible. Instead, they preach what appeals to man's physical desires. "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain." (Philippians 2:13-16)

The prophet Isaiah went to King Hezekiah who was dying, "In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live." (II Kings 20:1). Hezekiah had reigned about 15 years and had no son to continue his posterity. There's not a cry nor a tear, a sickness, or death to which the compassionate heart of God is not touched. Did God arrange his death for his blessing as well as the nation? However, mariculiously Hezekiah was healed, "And it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court, that the word of the LORD came to him, saying, Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the LORD. And I will add unto thy days fifteen years; and I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria; and I will defend this city for mine own sake, and for my servant David's sake. And Isaiah said, Take a lump of figs. And they took and laid it on the boil, and he recovered." (20:4-7).

Every situation of life is depicted for us in the Bible in order to give us an understanding of our relationship with God, our responsibilities to Him, as well as to others. Consequently, we have illustrations on the results of various ways to react to each situation. As we read through the Bible we gain guidance on how to understand each circumstance.

When we know that a person will not recover from their illness, is it the truest kindness to give false hopes of a quick recovery when we know there is no hope of recovery? Or do we put our complete trust and faith in the Lord that He can still produce miracles. "And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment: For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole. But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he said, Daughter, be of good comfort; thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour." (Matthew 9:20-22). I do not normally list testimonies in my messages, but I just recently watched a termanally ill baby with a rare blood disease mariculiously recover.

If they knew the facts, would the termanally ill person be led to turn their face to the wall and earnestly pray for God to cleanse them of their sins, and to receive Christ as Savior and Lord? We can only hope and pray that all of our loved ones come to know the Lord before it is too late. "Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them. And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through. Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not." (Luke 12:37-40).

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through Hezekiah, who sought to lead the kingdom of Judah back to God (II Kings 19). Here we are reminded that Jesus came to lead sinners to repentance. "When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Mark 2:17).

Today's Psalm: 90:12-14
"So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. Return, O LORD, how long? and let it repent thee concerning thy servants. O satisfy us early with thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord
We are confronted with deception on many fronts every day, so much so, that we can be deceived without even realizing it.  Would You help us to watch out and be on our guard so that we are not deceived by man’s words, no matter how convincing they are, how charming their personality, or how cunning their craft.  Help us not to fall for Satan’s deceptive tactics that have brought down believers throughout the church age.  We seek You for strength and discipline.  We search the Scriptures for discernment and the true revelation of who Jesus is; the Son of the Living God.  In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a wonderful Friday and weekend.
God Bless,
Christina

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Compromising God For Wealth 05.08.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday May 8, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of II Kings. Please read Chapters 16-17 in your Bible or Click Here to read. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%20Kings16-17&version =9

Today we will read and learn about Ahaz's reign in Judah and his defiling the Temple; Hoshea's reign in Israel; the fall of Samaria; and the captivity and deportations of Israel. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that we can not compromise God for material gain. Material gain without putting God first will only become disastrous.

The reign of King Ahaz in Judah is a disaster, nations were warring, making alliances, plotting, invading, and being carried into captivity. Fearing the growing power of Assyria, Pekah, king of Israel, made an alliance with Rezin, king of Syria (Aram) (II Kings 15:37). Together, they attempted to force Ahaz, to join them. When Ahaz refused, Syria's King Rezin and Israel's King Pekah came up to wage war against Jerusalem. "Then Rezin king of Syria and Pekah son of Remaliah king of Israel came up to Jerusalem to war: and they besieged Ahaz, but could not overcome him." (II Kings 16:5).

In retaliation, Ahaz made an alliance with Tiglath-pileser, king of Assyria, to attack Syria and Israel. This cost Ahaz to lose everything in the House of the Lord. "At that time Rezin king of Syria recovered Elath to Syria, and drave the Jews from Elath: and the Syrians came to Elath, and dwelt there unto this day. So Ahaz sent messengers to Tiglathpileser king of Assyria, saying, I am thy servant and thy son: come up, and save me out of the hand of the king of Syria, and out of the hand of the king of Israel, which rise up against me. And Ahaz took the silver and gold that was found in the house of the LORD, and in the treasures of the king's house, and sent it for a present to the king of Assyria." (16:6-8). The king of the Assyrian Empire conquered the small kingdom of Syria and killed Rezin, its king (16:9). Tiglath-pileser also defeated the tribes of Reuben and Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh on the eastern side of the Jordan. All that was left of the ten-tribe northern kingdom of Israel was the capital city of Samaria and the surrounding hill country of Ephraim.

The captivity and dispersion of the northern kingdom throughout Assyria took place because the Israelites served idols. They lived as if God did not exist. We must remember, whoever or whatever receives our loyalty becomes our idol, be it a person, purpose, or possession.

The two and one-half tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manassah chose to live just outside the promised land. However, they did join the other tribes and entered Canaan under Joshua to help fight for the promised. They then returned to their "profitable" territory on the east side of the River Jordan.  As the years passed, compromising sins eventually left them powerless before their enemies. "In the ninth year of Hoshea the king of Assyria took Samaria, and carried Israel away into Assyria, and placed them in Halah and in Habor by the river of Gozan, and in the cities of the Medes.....Yet the LORD testified against Israel, and against Judah, by all the prophets, and by all the seers, saying, Turn ye from your evil ways, and keep my commandments and my statutes, according to all the law which I commanded your fathers, and which I sent to you by my servants the prophets. Notwithstanding they would not hear, but hardened their necks, like to the neck of their fathers, that did not believe in the LORD their God." (17:6,13-14).

The people of the ten-tribe Northern Kingdom were defeated and deported into a heathen land which forever ended their existence as a separate kingdom. The dispersion of the ten tribes occurred in two stages, Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh were the first to be defeated by the Assyrians.

Instead of crossing Jordan into the promised land as God had directed, these tribes chose by what materially appeared would bring success (Numbers 32:33). Such people are the first to give up and become obsessed with worldly pleasures. They compromise convictions for what appears to be material advantage instead of being obedient to the Word of God. They are examples of the so called worldly Christians today who give more time to planning their vacation than they do in how they can better serve the Lord. We see the after effects of their choice, "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry."(II Timothy 4:3-5). Just as a desire for material gain led the two and one-half tribes to settle outside the promised land. Many compromised what they know to be God's will in order to gain their personal goals.

A halfhearted commitment to Christ results in instability to every other area of our lives. "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him." (I John 2:15).

In Today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through the Brazen (bronze) Altar made by Solomon (II Kings 16:14). The Brazen Altar is a type of the cross on which Christ, our whole burned offering, offered Himself to God. Unlike the necessary daily sacrifices on the Brazen Altar, the cross He did once, "Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself." (Hebrews 7:27).

Today's Psalm: 73:11-13
"And they say, How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the most High? Behold, these are the ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches. Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain, and washed my hands in innocency."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
I am full of gratitude today as I consider Your abiding presence in my life.  You planned my existence in my mother's womb before I even drew my first breath.  When so many people have come into my life and exited it throughout the years You have taken up residence and You forever rule my heart.  When the path before me was unclear You have always gone before me sustaining me in my wilderness journey. Though all forsake me You remain faithful, and remarkable as it seems, even if we are faithless, You will remain faithful, for You cannot deny Yourself.  Thank You for being my Supreme Savior and the Sustainer of my soul.  In Jesus' name, I pray.....Amen.

Have a wonderful Thursday and God Bless you.....Christina

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Deception Material of Wealth 05.07.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Wednesday May 7, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of II Kings. Please read Chapters 14-15 in your Bible or Click Here to read. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%20Kings%2014-15&vers ion=9

Today we will read and learn about the reign of Amaziah, Azariah (Uzziah), and Jotham over Judah; and the reign of five of last six kings over Israel. Today's message focuses on realzing that material success can be deceptive. We must not let success become more important than God, if that happens we will have nothing to show for it in the end.

Following the death of his father Jehoash, Jeroboam II ruled the northern kingdom of Israel in Samaria for 41 years (II Kings 14:16-29). However, he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD. "And he did that which was evil in the sight of the LORD: he departed not from all the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin." (II KIngs 14:24). Immorality and idolatry flourished during the reign of Jeroboam II.

For about 30 years the nation enjoyed peace, prosperity, and political prestige unparalleled since the days of David and Solomon. "He restored the coast of Israel from the entering of Hamath unto the sea of the plain, according to the word of the LORD God of Israel, which he spake by the hand of his servant Jonah, the son of Amittai, the prophet, which was of Gathhepher." (14:25). Sadly, Israel's prosperity did not cause the people to worship the Lord. It appears that they attributed their prosperity to idols. However, After Jeroboam's death, anarchy prevailed and Israel rapidly degenerated.

Material success is often deceptive, as it was for King Jeroboam II. We cannot measure a man's character by the length of his life, his friends, or his wealth. All things are temporal, especially wealth, you can not take any of it with you nor will you have many true friends. Just as Isreal rapidly degenerated so will ours if we are not walking in God's will. God knows the secrets of the heart and He will bless us with prosperity in all areas of our lives as long as we acknowledge Him is what we do, or at least try our best to put Him first above all things.

Surely the goodness of God should lead us, in gratitude, to do the will of Jesus Christ our Lord. "Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins: Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist." (Colossians 1:12-17).

Today's Psalm: 44:20-21
"If we have forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a strange god; Shall not God search this out? for he knoweth the secrets of the heart."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
I pray that You will help me to sow for myself righteousness, so that I will reap the fruit of Your unfailing love.  Break up the unplowed ground of my heart that is stony and hard so that I acknowledge my sins, receive Your forgiveness, and look to You for guidance.  May I thoroughly discern the vain philosophies and empty deception that pervades our society.  I want to seek Your will above man’s agenda so that You shower Your blessings upon me.  In Jesus' name, I pray.....Amen.

Have a wonderful Wednesday.
God Bless,
Christina

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Make An Effort 05.06.07

Hello My Firend/Guest,

It is Tuesday May 6, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of II Kings. Please read Chapters 11-13 in your Bible or Click Here to read.

Today we will read and learn about Athaliah's reign; David's descendants being murdered; Joash crowned as king; repairing the Temple; worship being restored; and the evil reign of Jehoahaz. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that if we want God to do great things for us we must make an effort. God will guide us, but we must make an effort to follow His will.

When Athaliah, daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, received word that her son, King Ahaziah, was dead, she seized the throne of Judah and proclaimed herself queen. To make sure she had no competition, she ruthlessly murdered her own grandsons. "And when Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and destroyed all the seed royal." (II KIngs 11:1). She thought she had killed all of David's descendants, however God intervened and saved the one-year-old Joash, the sole link that preserved the dynasty of David and the lineage through which Jesus Christ would come. "But Jehosheba, the daughter of king Joram, sister of Ahaziah, took Joash the son of Ahaziah, and stole him from among the king's sons which were slain; and they hid him, even him and his nurse, in the bedchamber from Athaliah, so that he was not slain. And he was with her hid in the house of the LORD six years. And Athaliah did reign over the land." (11:2-3).

When Joash was about seven years old, Jehoiada brought forth the king's son, and reigned him king over Isreal. "And he brought forth the king's son, and put the crown upon him, and gave him the testimony; and they made him king, and anointed him; and they clapped their hands, and said, God save the king." (11:12).The excited shouts caught the attention of Athaliah, who ran into the Temple court just in time to hear Jehoiada the high priest command the captains of the guard to execute her. "But Jehoiada the priest commanded the captains of the hundreds, the officers of the host, and said unto them, Have her forth without the ranges: and him that followeth her kill with the sword. For the priest had said, Let her not be slain in the house of the LORD. And they laid hands on her; and she went by the way by the which the horses came into the king's house: and there was she slain." (11:15-16).

The account of Athaliah illustrates that to forsake the Word of God results in untold miseries, "Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness." (II Thessalonians 2:9-12)

There are two Joashes in II Kings. There is Joash, the king of Judah (chapters 11; 12; 13:10), and there is Joash (Jehoash), the king of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, who often rejected Elisha's admonitions, however the king of the Northern Kingdom of Isreal came to visit with Elisha when he found out that he was dying. "Now Elisha was fallen sick of his sickness whereof he died. And Joash the king of Israel came down unto him, and wept over his face, and said, O my father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof." (II Kings 13:14). It was quite remarkable for King Joash to visit the dying prophet. It implies that the king knew that the man of God had been Israel's spiritual strength and they needed his counsel and prayers.

Israel was at that time at war with Syria. As a sign that God intended to give victory to His people, the king was bidden to take the bow and arrows. "And Elisha said unto him, Take bow and arrows. And he took unto him bow and arrows. And he said to the king of Israel, Put thine hand upon the bow. And he put his hand upon it: and Elisha put his hands upon the king's hands. And he said, Open the window eastward. And he opened it. Then Elisha said, Shoot. And he shot. And he said, The arrow of the LORD's deliverance, and the arrow of deliverance from Syria: for thou shalt smite the Syrians in Aphek, till thou have consumed them. And he said, Take the arrows. And he took them. And he said unto the king of Israel, Smite upon the ground. And he smote thrice, and stayed. And the man of God was wroth with him, and said, Thou shouldest have smitten five or six times; then hadst thou smitten Syria till thou hadst consumed it: whereas now thou shalt smite Syria but thrice." (13:15-19). King Joash was bidden to strike the ground until he consumed, but he only struck it three times. If he had smitten the ground six times, he would have shot six arrows and he would have had complete victory. As the arrow was shot through the air, the prophet said the arrow represented the Lord's deliverance of His people from Syrian domination.

Deliverance is of the Lord, but it must be accomplished by human effort. Joash had to actively take the bow and arrows, but God sovereignly would guide the people. We should not let our arrows lie still as if to say: "We are trusting God to shoot our arrows, we will just wait upon the Lord." It is an equally serious error to neglect the hand of God resting upon our activity.

Many well meaning Christians are content to attend church worship and be fed, but Jesus said, "I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing." (John 15:1-5)

Today's Psalm: 91:14-15
"Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
As we live by faith and not by sight we see much of what the world does not see because we see it through eyes of faith. By faith we see a risen Savior who died for us and who is now interceding on our behalf. By faith we believe that life’s trials will be worth it all when we are ushered into the pearly gates and gather with saints of all the ages to praise our glorious Savior around the throne. It is by faith that we come to Jesus and it is by faith that we will stay the course.  For it is not the one who runs the swiftest nor the one who runs for a day, but the one who endures to the end that will be saved. The struggles of this life diminish when we walk by faith and not by sight.  Navigate our steps as we journey here and deliver us from all unrighteousness. In Jesus' name, I pray.....Amen.

Have a Wonderful Tuesday and God Bless You.
Christina

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Wait Patiently For Your Blessings 05.04.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is sunday May 4, 2008 and today we are continuing our study on the book of II Kings. Please read Chapter 6-8 in your Bible, or Click Here to read. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%20Kings%206-8&versio n=9

Today we will read and learn about the Syrians (Arameans) attacking Israel; a famine in Samaria; & Elisha's prophecy being fulfilled. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that God's timing is everything and in order to see the blessings in store for us we must endure the present struggles and wait patiently for Him to make things happen. As we endure struggles God is preparing us for the great things ahead.

Ben-hadad, the king of Syria, sent the Syrian soldiers to capture the prophet Elisha, however during the attempt they had been miraculously blinded and were then led by Elisha inside the walls of the capital city of Samaria. "And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha. And when they came down to him, Elisha prayed unto the LORD, and said, Smite this people, I pray thee, with blindness. And he smote them with blindness according to the word of Elisha. And Elisha said unto them, This is not the way, neither is this the city: follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom ye seek. But he led them to Samaria. " (II Kings 6:15-19).

Once trapped there, the soldiers were at the mercy of the king of Israel. However, at Elisha's command, the king prepared a great feast for them, "And the king of Israel said unto Elisha, when he saw them, My father, shall I smite them? shall I smite them? And he answered, Thou shalt not smite them: wouldest thou smite those whom thou hast taken captive with thy sword and with thy bow? set bread and water before them, that they may eat and drink, and go to their master. And he prepared great provision for them: and when they had eaten and drunk, he sent them away, and they went to their master. So the bands of Syria came no more into the land of Israel." (6:21-23).

Now the once-powerful, luxurious, fortress-city of Samaria was faced with all the horrors of an extended famine. To surrender to Syria meant death for King Jehoram (Joram) and slavery for his people. But, remaining within the walls eventually reduced the people to starvation, some even resorted to cannibalism. These appalling conditions were the result of Israel's disobedience as God. When it appeared there was no hope, the Lord again brought Jehoram face-to-face with Elisha, "But Elisha sat in his house, and the elders sat with him; and the king sent a man from before him: but ere the messenger came to him, he said to the elders, See ye how this son of a murderer hath sent to take away mine head? look, when the messenger cometh, shut the door, and hold him fast at the door: is not the sound of his master's feet behind him? And while he yet talked with them, behold, the messenger came down unto him: and he said, Behold, this evil is of the LORD; what should I wait for the LORD any longer? Then Elisha said, Hear ye the word of the LORD; Thus saith the LORD, To morrow about this time shall a measure of fine flour be sold for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in the gate of Samaria." (6:32-7:1). Then an offical to the king ridiculed him, "Then a lord on whose hand the king leaned answered the man of God, and said, Behold, if the LORD would make windows in heaven, might this thing be? And he said, Behold, thou shalt see it with thine eyes, but shalt not eat thereof." (7:2).

The prophecy was miraculously fulfilled when God, in His great mercy, sent fear into the hearts of the Syrian army and they hurriedly abandoned their camp leaving their food in abundance for the Israelites. The king's official was trampled to death in the rush for food, "And the king appointed the lord on whose hand he leaned to have the charge of the gate: and the people trode upon him in the gate, and he died, as the man of God had said, who spake when the king came down to him." (7:17). Obedient Christians need not fear for tomorrow! Instead, we can rejoice in the promises of God, who shall supply all your needs.

Ben-hadad, was sick, but also an idol worshiper. At his request Hazael went to the prophet Elisha to ask if the king would recover from his sickness, "And Elisha came to Damascus; and Benhadad the king of Syria was sick; and it was told him, saying, The man of God is come hither. And the king said unto Hazael, Take a present in thine hand, and go, meet the man of God, and enquire of the LORD by him, saying, Shall I recover of this disease?......And Hazael said, Why weepeth my lord? And he answered, Because I know the evil that thou wilt do unto the children of Israel: their strong holds wilt thou set on fire, and their young men wilt thou slay with the sword, and wilt dash their children, and rip up their women with child. And Hazael said, But what, is thy servant a dog, that he should do this great thing? And Elisha answered, The LORD hath shewed me that thou shalt be king over Syria." (8:7-8,12-13).

With deceptive concern, Hazael waited for his opportunity,to kill Ben-hadad to reign over Israel, "And it came to pass on the morrow, that he took a thick cloth, and dipped it in water, and spread it on his face, so that he died: and Hazael reigned in his stead." (8:15). Covetousness blinds a person to the cruel, unscrupulous actions of which he is capable in order to satisfy greed. Hazael was willing to stoop to any depth of evil in order to gain a favored position immediately. Perhaps in earlier years, Hazael would have been horrified at the thought that he would heartlessly assassinate his royal master.

Circumstances confront us with new temptations which were never before felt. Had Joseph's brothers been told that one day they would consider murdering or selling him into slavery, they undoubtedly would also have asked: Is thy servant a dog? Like Hazael they were men and sinners by nature. Apart from the indwelling Christ, man yields readily to the passions which war against his soul; he gives way to the circumstances which appeal to his greed. "Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace." (Romans 6:12-14).

Hazael could have followed the example of King David who many years earlier, after he was anointed king by Samuel, had the opportunity to murder Saul. But David refused to take matters into his own hands; he knew that God's timing was best. We are perfectly safe when we commit our desires to the Lord first and yield ourselves to be guided by His Word. "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time." (I Peter 1:3-5).

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through Elisha, who wept when he realized what Hazael would do to Israel and its people (II Kings 8:11-12). We are reminded of Jesus as He wept over Jerusalem. "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate." (Matthew 23:37-38).

Have a great day of the Lord.
God Bless,
Christina

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God's Calling 05.02.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Friday May 2, 2008 and today we will begin our study on the book of II Kings. The book of II Kings was written by Jermiah and contains 25 chapters. It was written to Isreal and the purpose of the book was to continue the record of God's dealings with His people. The book teaches us to realize that kingdoms of this world are temporal, they rise and fall under God's control. To begin, please read Chapters 1-3 in your Bible or Click Here to read. http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=II" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%20Kings%201-3&versio n=9

Today we will read and learn about the new King of Israel, Ahaziah, God's intervention for His anointed prophets, Elijah passing the mantle to Elisha, God rolls back the waters of the Jordan River a second time, and Moab rebels and Israel and Judah join forces. Today's message focuses on the importance of responding to the calling of God.

The ministry of the great prophet Elijah was finished, a ministry of faithfulness and unshakable loyalty to God. Ten years before Elijah's departure in a chariot of fire, the Lord said to him that Elisha will replace him as prophet. "And Jehu the son of Nimshi shalt thou anoint to be king over Israel: and Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abelmeholah shalt thou anoint to be prophet in thy room. And it shall come to pass, that him that escapeth the sword of Hazael shall Jehu slay: and him that escapeth from the sword of Jehu shall Elisha slay. Yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal, and every mouth which hath not kissed him. So he departed thence, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth: and Elijah passed by him, and cast his mantle upon him." (I Kings 19:16-19).

At the time Elijah called Elisha to join him, it appears that Elisha was a prosperous young farmer. To accept Elijah's calling to be his servant would mean that Elisha would have to forsake his family and friends as well as financial securities. His friends probably thought that to be the servant of a prophet would be a lonely,  menial occupation. But, Elisha knew that obeying God's Word provides the true values of life and leads us to spiritual trust and commitment to the Lord. "And he returned back from him, and took a yoke of oxen, and slew them, and boiled their flesh with the instruments of the oxen, and gave unto the people, and they did eat. Then he arose, and went after Elijah, and ministered unto him." (19:21). Elisha's actions demonstrate that the key to one's usefulness in the Kingdom of God is to immediately respond to every opportunity to serve the Lord, regardless of how great or how insignificant the task may appear.

It is always wise to consider the character of the servants whom God has used in the past; by so doing, we see the kind of persons whom God will choose and use in the present and future. Carefully consider the legacy left by these two men, Elijah and Elisha. All of us are leaving a legacy at the end of life; we are leaving a legacy of our moral and spiritual values. We can not detach ourselves from this involuntary and often unconscious influence upon others. What we can determine is the kind of legacy we will leave. Apart from any testimony we may contribute, let us live each day in the reality that our lives are influencing others to trust in Christ as His servant.

Just prior to Elijah's translation into heaven, Elisha again revealed his spiritual discernment and loyalty to God that qualified him to be Elijah's successor, "And it came to pass, when the LORD would take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elijah went with Elisha from Gilgal. And Elijah said unto Elisha, Tarry here, I pray thee; for the LORD hath sent me to Bethel. And Elisha said unto him, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. So they went down to Bethel." (II Kings 2:1-2). Elisha pledged his faithfulness with a vow and was determined to continue with Elijah on his journey from Gilgal to Bethel, on to Jericho, and then across the Jordan River, "And Elijah said unto him, Tarry, I pray thee, here; for the LORD hath sent me to Jordan. And he said, As the LORD liveth, and as thy soul liveth, I will not leave thee. And they two went on. And fifty men of the sons of the prophets went, and stood to view afar off: and they two stood by Jordan. And Elijah took his mantle, and wrapped it together, and smote the waters, and they were divided hither and thither, so that they two went over on dry ground. And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me. And he said, Thou hast asked a hard thing: nevertheless, if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee; but if not, it shall not be so. And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven." (2:6-11).

As He did for Elisha, the Lord has used circumstances to place each of us where we are today in order to determine the sincerity of our commitment to Him, "The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." (I Corinthians 15:56-58).

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through  the Lord taking up Elijah in the whirlwind and the dropping of the mantle, a symbol of the presence and power of God that remains with His faithful servants (II Kings 2:8-15). This is a foreshadowing of the ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ and His sending of the Holy Spirit to indwell believers in Him, giving us power to evangelize the world.

Today's Psalm:37:5
"Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
You have called us, Your servants, to exercise our gifts of prophesying, serving, teaching, encouraging, contributing to the needs of others, leading, and being vessels of Your mercy. Help us not to be fearful or timid in exercising our spiritual gift that flows from Your power within us, since it is not for our own glory but rather for the building up of the body of Christ.  We are inadequate within ourselves, but fully sufficient according to the grace given us through Your Holy Spirit.  We seek affirmation from You, the ministry opportunities You provide us, and other mature believers, to confirm our spiritual giftings.  In Jesus' name, we pray.....Amen!

Have a Fantastic Friday and weekend! TGIF!
God Bless,
Christina

P.S. I apologize for no message yesterday I had computer problems.

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