A Spiritual Guide

Ignoring God's Word 08.25.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Moday August 25, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Jeremiah. Please read Chapters 34-36 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jerem iah%2034-36&version=9

Today we will read and learn about Jeremiah warning Zedekiah; the obedience of the Rechabites; and the scroll read by Jehundi that was destroyed. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that although the majority of people don't want to hear or read the Word of God, it is still God's only Guide for life.

God lead Jeremiah to warn Zedekiah of the fate of Judah, "The word which came unto Jeremiah from the LORD, when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and all his army, and all the kingdoms of the earth of his dominion, and all the people, fought against Jerusalem, and against all the cities thereof, saying, Thus saith the LORD, the God of Israel; Go and speak to Zedekiah king of Judah, and tell him, Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will give this city into the hand of the king of Babylon, and he shall burn it with fire: And thou shalt not escape out of his hand, but shalt surely be taken, and delivered into his hand; and thine eyes shall behold the eyes of the king of Babylon, and he shall speak with thee mouth to mouth, and thou shalt go to Babylon." (Jeremiah 34:1-3). The Lord, who never changes, clearly outlines His judgment on those nations who will not repent of their wicked ways, but He also rewards those who do and when people among the nation chose to follow Him He will protect them and lead them to safety. We need to view all tragic circumastances as opportunites to prevail. Although Jesus suffered and died for our sins, He rose again even more powerful.

Four years later, Nebuchadnezzar defeated the Egyptians, invaded Jerusalem and appointed Jehoiakim as his servant king, however Jehoiakim was a ruthless leader. God spoke to Jeremiah and instructed him to write everything that He said to him on a scroll. Jeremiah recorded the judgement of God against the sins of Judah. "And it came to pass in the fourth year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, that this word came unto Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, Take thee a roll of a book, and write therein all the words that I have spoken unto thee against Israel, and against Judah, and against all the nations, from the day I spake unto thee, from the days of Josiah, even unto this day. It may be that the house of Judah will hear all the evil which I purpose to do unto them; that they may return every man from his evil way; that I may forgive their iniquity and their sin. Then Jeremiah called Baruch the son of Neriah: and Baruch wrote from the mouth of Jeremiah all the words of the LORD, which he had spoken unto him, upon a roll of a book." (36:1-4). God's purpose for this was to lead the people to repent and return to Him.

The scroll was read to three groups of people, first to the people in the Temple on a day of fast, then to the people of Judah, "Therefore go thou, and read in the roll, which thou hast written from my mouth, the words of the LORD in the ears of the people in the LORD's house upon the fasting day: and also thou shalt read them in the ears of all Judah that come out of their cities." (36:6). Then the scroll was read to the princes of the government, "Then he went down into the king's house, into the scribe's chamber: and, lo, all the princes sat there, even Elishama the scribe, and Delaiah the son of Shemaiah, and Elnathan the son of Achbor, and Gemariah the son of Shaphan, and Zedekiah the son of Hananiah, and all the princes. Then Michaiah declared unto them all the words that he had heard, when Baruch read the book in the ears of the people." (36:12-13). They were dismayed and terrified by the prophet's message and reported the matter to the king who then took to scroll and burned it.

Some today seal their fate by refusing to read the truth that God considers necessary to fulfill His will. Fire can consume books, but it cannot consume the inspired Word of God. The Bible has withstood similar fierce attacks for centuries, even today, but no matter how many Bibles are destroyed no one can take away the true Word of God. He truly is the truth, the life, and the way and no one can make that disappear. Jesus declared, "Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled. Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away." (Luke 21:32-33).

We too are warned, "Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." Hebrews (10:23-25).

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed through the One who desires liberty for those in bondage (Jeremiah 34:13-16). Jesus is the Spirit of the Lord and brings deliverance to those who are captive. (Luke 4:18-19).

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Your grace and tender mercies are present in the midst of perplexing situations that develop in our lives and the lives of those whom we love. Your sovereign power working within us takes the bad things that Satan hurls at us and turns them into testimonies of praise and thanksgiving when we seek to glorify You in the midst of suffering. Only a God like You can help us not to be overcome by evil, but to overcome evil with good. As we share in Your sufferings, we also share in Your glory.  Be glorifed in our lives; in the good, in the bad, and in the mysterious circumstances of our lives. In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Enjoy the rest of your day and be blessed.
God Bless,
Christina

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Facing Opposition 08.23.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Saturday August 23, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Jeremiah. Please read Chapters 29-31 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jerem iah%2029-31&version=9

Today we will read and learn about the letter written to the captive Jews in Babylon; the foretelling of their freedom and a full restoration of things. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that God's Word tells us to treat our enemies with kindness and in doing so we will overcome evil with good and be blessed.

Through Jeremiah, God repeatedly told the Jews that Jerusalem would be destroyed and the remaining Jews will be held captive in Babylon. This now became a reality and Jeremiah sends the Jews a letter, Now these are the words of the letter that Jeremiah the prophet sent from Jerusalem unto the residue of the elders which were carried away captives, and to the priests, and to the prophets, and to all the people whom Nebuchadnezzar had carried away captive from Jerusalem to Babylon;" (Jeremaih 29:1).

God let them know that they would not be lost and disappear, but would remain a distinct people. "Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, unto all that are carried away captives, whom I have caused to be carried away from Jerusalem unto Babylon; Build ye houses, and dwell in them; and plant gardens, and eat the fruit of them; Take ye wives, and beget sons and daughters; and take wives for your sons, and give your daughters to husbands, that they may bear sons and daughters; that ye may be increased there, and not diminished. And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace." (29:4-7). An amazing prophetic truth has been fulfilled and the once mighty empires of Assyria, Persia, Greece, and Rome have faded away.

During their captivity, Jeremiah taught them how to respond to the people who held them captive, "For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Let not your prophets and your diviners, that be in the midst of you, deceive you, neither hearken to your dreams which ye cause to be dreamed. For they prophesy falsely unto you in my name: I have not sent them, saith the LORD. For thus saith the LORD, That after seventy years be accomplished at Babylon I will visit you, and perform my good word toward you, in causing you to return to this place." (25:8-10). This means they were to pray for, and be a blessing to, their captors; and the Israelites, in turn, would be blessed by God.

This is a reminder to us that we are going to face situations where we feel we are held captive, such as marriage, kids, jobs, where we are going to be taken advantage of or even mistreated. Instead of living in pity and feeling sorry for ourselves or trying to seek revenge we need to put our trust in God and seek the best for our enemies. I know it can be hard to forgive, but unless we forgive we can not be forgiven by God or receive the blessings waiting for us. Besides, forgiving our enemies let's God take care of them for us. "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled. Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? if any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's." (II Corinthians 10:3-7).

Let us remember that there is a God,  a God who has purpose and design for both His people and the promised land.

In today's reading Jesus Christ is revealed through the One who forgives sin (Jeremiah 31:34). Through Jesus we are forgiven of our sins and made righteous in the eyes of God. "Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered." (Romans 4:6-7).

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. Thank you, Lord for not giving up on us and using us as examples that through You we can face any opposition. In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Enjoy the rest of your daya nd weekend.
God bless,
Christina

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Compromising Our Faith 08.22.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Friday August 22, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Jeremiah. Please read Chapters 26-28 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jerem iah%2026-28&version=9

Today we will read and learn about the arrest of Jeremiah and the threat to put him to death; the prophecy of Judah's subjection to Nebuchadnezzar; Hananiah's false phrophecy and his death. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that we can not compromise our faith in God's Word regardless of the dangers that we face by the world.

About twenty-two years before the defeat and destruction of Jerusalem, God commanded Jeremiah to speak to the people of Judah about their coming fate. "Thus saith the LORD; Stand in the court of the LORD's house, and speak unto all the cities of Judah, which come to worship in the LORD's house, all the words that I command thee to speak unto them; diminish not a word: If so be they will hearken, and turn every man from his evil way, that I may repent me of the evil, which I purpose to do unto them because of the evil of their doings. And thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the LORD; If ye will not hearken to me, to walk in my law, which I have set before you, To hearken to the words of my servants the prophets, whom I sent unto you, both rising up early, and sending them, but ye have not hearkened; Then will I make this house like Shiloh, and will make this city a curse to all the nations of the earth." (Jeremiah 26:2-6). Shiloh was the place where the Tabernacle was first erected by Joshua after he entered the promised land (Joshua 18:). But God eventually abandoned the Tabernacle of Shiloh because of the nation's constant sinning. Now, Shiloh was nothing but empty ruins and today no one is sure of its exact location, a reminder of how sin destroys a nation.

This devastating message from God caused the people to hate him and threaten to put him to death. "Now it came to pass, when Jeremiah had made an end of speaking all that the LORD had commanded him to speak unto all the people, that the priests and the prophets and all the people took him, saying, Thou shalt surely die." (26:8).

However, Jeremiah remained faithful and was ready to die rather than to allow the fear of his outcome to keep him from being faithful to God. "Then spake Jeremiah unto all the princes and to all the people, saying, The LORD sent me to prophesy against this house and against this city all the words that ye have heard. Therefore now amend your ways and your doings, and obey the voice of the LORD your God; and the LORD will repent him of the evil that he hath pronounced against you. As for me, behold, I am in your hand: do with me as seemeth good and meet unto you. But know ye for certain, that if ye put me to death, ye shall surely bring innocent blood upon yourselves, and upon this city, and upon the inhabitants thereof: for of a truth the LORD hath sent me unto you to speak all these words in your ears. Then said the princes and all the people unto the priests and to the prophets; This man is not worthy to die: for he hath spoken to us in the name of the LORD our God." (26:12-16). Today Christians in many countries face fierce persecution for no other reason than pleading for people to repent of their sins and worshipping of false gods and to turn their ways over to the One & Only True God.

During the early part of Zedekiah's reign, God commanded Jeremiah to make a yoke and put it on his own neck. "Thus saith the LORD to me; Make thee bonds and yokes, and put them upon thy neck," (27:2). This symbolized the coming captivity of Judah to Nebuchadnezzer. Though Jeremiah God declared, "I have made the earth, the man and the beast that are upon the ground, by my great power and by my outstretched arm, and have given it unto whom it seemed meet unto me. And now have I given all these lands into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, my servant; and the beasts of the field have I given him also to serve him." (27:5-6).

When Jeremiah's prophecy was fulfilled and the Israelites were defeated by Nebuchadnezzar, it began the times of the Gentiles. "And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled." (Luke 21:24). During the times of Gentiles the Jews will return to Jerusalem and once again become a nation before the coming of Jesus and His reign. God has not let us know when that time will come, but it could be today, the next week, or the next century and it is up to us to be prepared when that takes place. Let us faithfully and diligently tell others how they too can be prepared for His return. Failure to be prepared will result in eternal damnation for all who do not receive Christ as their Savior and Lord.

In today's reading Jesus Christ is revealed through Jeremiah, who was falsely accused by the priests and the false prophets (Jeremiah 26:8-9). Our Lord was threatened and falsely accused by the religious rulers of His day. (Luke 22:66-23:2; John 8:48,59)

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
You know those to whom you are leading us to share the Gospel message.  Sometimes these folks are on our hearts for years and we've prayed for them time and again. Other times we are prompted by the Holy Spirit to speak to an individual we've never met. We know that you have given us all authority in heaven and on earth to go and make disciples of all nations.  It is not in our own strength, wisdom, personality or talents that we share the message of salvation to those who are lost.  It is in the power of Your Holy Spirit that we go forth bringing the message of hope and forgiveness to those who seek it.  Help us not to be discouraged when we don't see an immediate response for we know that we are all involved in the planting of spiritual seeds.  In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a wonderful, blessed day and weekend.
God bless,
Christina

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Compromising Our Faith 08.22.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Friday August 22, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Jeremiah. Please read Chapters 26-28 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jerem iah%2026-28&version=9

Today we will read and learn about the arrest of Jeremiah and the threat to put him to death; the prophecy of Judah's subjection to Nebuchadnezzar; Hananiah's false phrophecy and his death. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that we can not compromise our faith in God's Word regardless of the dangers that we face by the world.

About twenty-two years before the defeat and destruction of Jerusalem, God commanded Jeremiah to speak to the people of Judah about their coming fate. "Thus saith the LORD; Stand in the court of the LORD's house, and speak unto all the cities of Judah, which come to worship in the LORD's house, all the words that I command thee to speak unto them; diminish not a word: If so be they will hearken, and turn every man from his evil way, that I may repent me of the evil, which I purpose to do unto them because of the evil of their doings. And thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the LORD; If ye will not hearken to me, to walk in my law, which I have set before you, To hearken to the words of my servants the prophets, whom I sent unto you, both rising up early, and sending them, but ye have not hearkened; Then will I make this house like Shiloh, and will make this city a curse to all the nations of the earth." (Jeremiah 26:2-6). Shiloh was the place where the Tabernacle was first erected by Joshua after he entered the promised land (Joshua 18:). But God eventually abandoned the Tabernacle of Shiloh because of the nation's constant sinning. Now, Shiloh was nothing but empty ruins and today no one is sure of its exact location, a reminder of how sin destroys a nation.

This devastating message from God caused the people to hate him and threaten to put him to death. "Now it came to pass, when Jeremiah had made an end of speaking all that the LORD had commanded him to speak unto all the people, that the priests and the prophets and all the people took him, saying, Thou shalt surely die." (26:8).

However, Jeremiah remained faithful and was ready to die rather than to allow the fear of his outcome to keep him from being faithful to God. "Then spake Jeremiah unto all the princes and to all the people, saying, The LORD sent me to prophesy against this house and against this city all the words that ye have heard. Therefore now amend your ways and your doings, and obey the voice of the LORD your God; and the LORD will repent him of the evil that he hath pronounced against you. As for me, behold, I am in your hand: do with me as seemeth good and meet unto you. But know ye for certain, that if ye put me to death, ye shall surely bring innocent blood upon yourselves, and upon this city, and upon the inhabitants thereof: for of a truth the LORD hath sent me unto you to speak all these words in your ears. Then said the princes and all the people unto the priests and to the prophets; This man is not worthy to die: for he hath spoken to us in the name of the LORD our God." (26:12-16). Today Christians in many countries face fierce persecution for no other reason than pleading for people to repent of their sins and worshipping of false gods and to turn their ways over to the One & Only True God.

During the early part of Zedekiah's reign, God commanded Jeremiah to make a yoke and put it on his own neck. "Thus saith the LORD to me; Make thee bonds and yokes, and put them upon thy neck," (27:2). This symbolized the coming captivity of Judah to Nebuchadnezzer. Though Jeremiah God declared, "I have made the earth, the man and the beast that are upon the ground, by my great power and by my outstretched arm, and have given it unto whom it seemed meet unto me. And now have I given all these lands into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, my servant; and the beasts of the field have I given him also to serve him." (27:5-6).

When Jeremiah's prophecy was fulfilled and the Israelites were defeated by Nebuchadnezzar, it began the times of the Gentiles. "And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled." (Luke 21:24). During the times of Gentiles the Jews will return to Jerusalem and once again become a nation before the coming of Jesus and His reign. God has not let us know when that time will come, but it could be today, the next week, or the next century and it is up to us to be prepared when that takes place. Let us faithfully and diligently tell others how they too can be prepared for His return. Failure to be prepared will result in eternal damnation for all who do not receive Christ as their Savior and Lord.

In today's reading Jesus Christ is revealed through Jeremiah, who was falsely accused by the priests and the false prophets (Jeremiah 26:8-9). Our Lord was threatened and falsely accused by the religious rulers of His day. (Luke 22:66-23:2; John 8:48,59)

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
You know those to whom you are leading us to share the Gospel message.  Sometimes these folks are on our hearts for years and we've prayed for them time and again. Other times we are prompted by the Holy Spirit to speak to an individual we've never met. We know that you have given us all authority in heaven and on earth to go and make disciples of all nations.  It is not in our own strength, wisdom, personality or talents that we share the message of salvation to those who are lost.  It is in the power of Your Holy Spirit that we go forth bringing the message of hope and forgiveness to those who seek it.  Help us not to be discouraged when we don't see an immediate response for we know that we are all involved in the planting of spiritual seeds.  In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a wonderful, blessed day and weekend.
God bless,
Christina

Visit A Spiritual Guide
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Compromising Our Faith 08.22.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Friday August 22, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Jeremiah. Please read Chapters 26-28 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jerem iah%2026-28&version=9

Today we will read and learn about the arrest of Jeremiah and the threat to put him to death; the prophecy of Judah's subjection to Nebuchadnezzar; Hananiah's false phrophecy and his death. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that we can not compromise our faith in God's Word regardless of the dangers that we face by the world.

About twenty-two years before the defeat and destruction of Jerusalem, God commanded Jeremiah to speak to the people of Judah about their coming fate. "Thus saith the LORD; Stand in the court of the LORD's house, and speak unto all the cities of Judah, which come to worship in the LORD's house, all the words that I command thee to speak unto them; diminish not a word: If so be they will hearken, and turn every man from his evil way, that I may repent me of the evil, which I purpose to do unto them because of the evil of their doings. And thou shalt say unto them, Thus saith the LORD; If ye will not hearken to me, to walk in my law, which I have set before you, To hearken to the words of my servants the prophets, whom I sent unto you, both rising up early, and sending them, but ye have not hearkened; Then will I make this house like Shiloh, and will make this city a curse to all the nations of the earth." (Jeremiah 26:2-6). Shiloh was the place where the Tabernacle was first erected by Joshua after he entered the promised land (Joshua 18:). But God eventually abandoned the Tabernacle of Shiloh because of the nation's constant sinning. Now, Shiloh was nothing but empty ruins and today no one is sure of its exact location, a reminder of how sin destroys a nation.

This devastating message from God caused the people to hate him and threaten to put him to death. "Now it came to pass, when Jeremiah had made an end of speaking all that the LORD had commanded him to speak unto all the people, that the priests and the prophets and all the people took him, saying, Thou shalt surely die." (26:8).

However, Jeremiah remained faithful and was ready to die rather than to allow the fear of his outcome to keep him from being faithful to God. "Then spake Jeremiah unto all the princes and to all the people, saying, The LORD sent me to prophesy against this house and against this city all the words that ye have heard. Therefore now amend your ways and your doings, and obey the voice of the LORD your God; and the LORD will repent him of the evil that he hath pronounced against you. As for me, behold, I am in your hand: do with me as seemeth good and meet unto you. But know ye for certain, that if ye put me to death, ye shall surely bring innocent blood upon yourselves, and upon this city, and upon the inhabitants thereof: for of a truth the LORD hath sent me unto you to speak all these words in your ears. Then said the princes and all the people unto the priests and to the prophets; This man is not worthy to die: for he hath spoken to us in the name of the LORD our God." (26:12-16). Today Christians in many countries face fierce persecution for no other reason than pleading for people to repent of their sins and worshipping of false gods and to turn their ways over to the One & Only True God.

During the early part of Zedekiah's reign, God commanded Jeremiah to make a yoke and put it on his own neck. "Thus saith the LORD to me; Make thee bonds and yokes, and put them upon thy neck," (27:2). This symbolized the coming captivity of Judah to Nebuchadnezzer. Though Jeremiah God declared, "I have made the earth, the man and the beast that are upon the ground, by my great power and by my outstretched arm, and have given it unto whom it seemed meet unto me. And now have I given all these lands into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, my servant; and the beasts of the field have I given him also to serve him." (27:5-6).

When Jeremiah's prophecy was fulfilled and the Israelites were defeated by Nebuchadnezzar, it began the times of the Gentiles. "And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled." (Luke 21:24). During the times of Gentiles the Jews will return to Jerusalem and once again become a nation before the coming of Jesus and His reign. God has not let us know when that time will come, but it could be today, the next week, or the next century and it is up to us to be prepared when that takes place. Let us faithfully and diligently tell others how they too can be prepared for His return. Failure to be prepared will result in eternal damnation for all who do not receive Christ as their Savior and Lord.

In today's reading Jesus Christ is revealed through Jeremiah, who was falsely accused by the priests and the false prophets (Jeremiah 26:8-9). Our Lord was threatened and falsely accused by the religious rulers of His day. (Luke 22:66-23:2; John 8:48,59)

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
You know those to whom you are leading us to share the Gospel message.  Sometimes these folks are on our hearts for years and we've prayed for them time and again. Other times we are prompted by the Holy Spirit to speak to an individual we've never met. We know that you have given us all authority in heaven and on earth to go and make disciples of all nations.  It is not in our own strength, wisdom, personality or talents that we share the message of salvation to those who are lost.  It is in the power of Your Holy Spirit that we go forth bringing the message of hope and forgiveness to those who seek it.  Help us not to be discouraged when we don't see an immediate response for we know that we are all involved in the planting of spiritual seeds.  In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a wonderful, blessed day and weekend.
God bless,
Christina

Visit A Spiritual Guide
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Following The Correct Doctrine 08.21.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is August 21, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Jeremiah. Please read Chapters 23-25 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jerem iah%2023-25&version=9

Today we will read and learn about Judah's future restoration; the promises of Christ; lying prophets; good and bad figs; and the judgement upon Babylon foretold. Today's message focuses on the importance of following the correct doctrine and teachers of God. If we do not know the truth we will face many consequences.

Only a few months remained before the judgement upon Babylon took place and the destruction of the kingdom of Judah began. It was now too late to pray for Jerusalem or for the Temple to be saved from this destruction and through Jeremiah God warned the lying prophets, "For both prophet and priest are profane; yea, in my house have I found their wickedness, saith the LORD. Wherefore their way shall be unto them as slippery ways in the darkness: they shall be driven on, and fall therein: for I will bring evil upon them, even the year of their visitation, saith the LORD. And I have seen folly in the prophets of Samaria; they prophesied in Baal, and caused my people Israel to err. I have seen also in the prophets of Jerusalem an horrible thing: they commit adultery, and walk in lies: they strengthen also the hands of evildoers, that none doth return from his wickedness; they are all of them unto me as Sodom, and the inhabitants thereof as Gomorrah. Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts concerning the prophets; Behold, I will feed them with wormwood, and make them drink the water of gall: for from the prophets of Jerusalem is profaneness gone forth into all the land." (Jeremiah 23:11-15).

Today, there are even more false prophets, pastors, and teachers proclaiming God's Word yet constantly live in sin. A true servant of God will let the Holy Spirit work in him/her and serve Him whole heartedly and turning away from the lusts of the world. Did you know that Satan knows the Bible? He will use anyone to give bits and pieces of the Bible in order to steer them into sin and destruction. That is why it is so important to study God's Word for yourself, to get around others who do the same, and to teach those who err due to false prophets.

Judah's last king, Zedekiah who was one of the most wicked kings, would soon suffer horribly and he watched his children die and later himself be captured, (See Kings 25). God compared Judah and Zedekiah to good and bad figs, "Thus saith the LORD, the God of Israel; Like these good figs, so will I acknowledge them that are carried away captive of Judah, whom I have sent out of this place into the land of the Chaldeans for their good. For I will set mine eyes upon them for good, and I will bring them again to this land: and I will build them, and not pull them down; and I will plant them, and not pluck them up. And I will give them an heart to know me, that I am the LORD: and they shall be my people, and I will be their God: for they shall return unto me with their whole heart. And as the evil figs, which cannot be eaten, they are so evil; surely thus saith the LORD, So will I give Zedekiah the king of Judah, and his princes, and the residue of Jerusalem, that remain in this land, and them that dwell in the land of Egypt: And I will deliver them to be removed into all the kingdoms of the earth for their hurt, to be a reproach and a proverb, a taunt and a curse, in all places whither I shall drive them." (24:5-9). The good figs represented God's people who just needed help getting back on track, they were sent to be captives in Babylon in order to teach and correct them. The bad figs represent those who refuse to acknowldege God even that He exsists and continue to live in sin no matter what consequences they face.

These prophecies are grave reminders that sin and suffering go hand in hand. Most people on this earth feel shame and guilt when they know they have done something wrong and continue to do so. The further they get into their sin the more they suffer as they face more and more consequences.

Even while Babylon was conquering Judah Jeremiah assured them that they would be safe, "In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS." (23:6). When we receive Christ as our Savior He becomes for us THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

In today's reading Jesus Christ is revealed as THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS. (Jeremiah 23:6).

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Thank you for the countless people who have followed Your calling in their lives and spoke the truth about You. They chose to do Your will and because of their obedience our lives have been spiritually enriched.  Above all, we thank You for Jesus who chose to do Your will; who left the sinless portals of heaven to make His home among us so that we might see You clothed in flesh. Help us to be obedient to Your will for our lives. We want to hold loosely to this temporal passing world and direct our affections toward the eternal dwelling place where we will live forever with You. In Jesus' name....Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day!
God bless,
Christina

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No Effort Unnoticed08.21.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday August 21, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Jeremiah. Today's study will be in two parts as I was not able to get one out yesterday do to weather conditions here in Florida. Thank you for your patience and understanding this week.

Please read Chapters 19-22 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to the browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jerem iah%2019-22&version=9

Today we will read and learn about the beating and imprisonment of Jeremiah by Pashur; Jeremiah's grief; the destruction of Jerusalem foretold; and the way of life or death. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that doing God's Work does not go unnoticed. We are not alone nor failing, no matter what we feel God is with us and will bless us for our efforts.

During the last days of the kingdom of Judah, Jeremiah met with Pashur, the son of the high priest. "Now Pashur the son of Immer the priest, who was also chief governor in the house of the LORD., heard that Jeremiah prophesied these things. Then Pashur smote Jeremiah the prophet, and put him in the stocks that were in the high gate of Benjamin, which was by the house of the LORD" (Jeremiah 20:1-2). 

He courageously faced Pashur, "For thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will make thee a terror to thyself, and to all thy friends: and they shall fall by the sword of their enemies, and thine eyes shall behold it: and I will give all Judah into the hand of the king of Babylon, and he shall carry them captive into Babylon, and shall slay them with the sword. Moreover I will deliver all the strength of this city, and all the labours thereof, and all the precious things thereof, and all the treasures of the kings of Judah will I give into the hand of their enemies, which shall spoil them, and take them, and carry them to Babylon. And thou, Pashur, and all that dwell in thine house shall go into captivity: and thou shalt come to Babylon, and there thou shalt die, and shalt be buried there, thou, and all thy friends, to whom thou hast prophesied lies." (20:4-6). Soon the people of Judah learned of the defeat of Assyria and then of Egypt.

Nebuchadnezzar's victory in the battle at Carchemish, Babylon emerged as the new dominant world power thus confirming what Isaiah had foretold about 100 years earlier (See Isaiah 39:6-7). Even after being fully informed of the results of rejecting the Word of God, the religious leaders not only refused to repent, but they began a campaign to discredit Jeremiah before the king and the nation.

Jeremiah sat alone in prison and was momentarily discouraged, "Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay." (20:9). Jeremiah may have thought that he had failed to communicate to the people the importance of obeying the Word of God. Most spiritual leaders and teachers have, at some time, felt that they failed in fulfilling their God-given responsibility. However, we never fully understand the impact that is placed by one person seeking to tell the truth. Jeremiah has been an inspiration to millions of believers for many succeeding centuries.

No one who is devoted to teaching the Word of God personally, or by providing the money to make it possible for others to teach His Word, and who lives by it is a failure. Jesus promised, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24).

Have a safe and blessed day.
God bless,
Christina

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Salvation & Sin 08.17.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Sunday August 17, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Jeremiah. Please read Chapters 7-10 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Jerem iah%207-10&version=9

Today we will read and learn about a plea for repentance; the punishment for Judah's rebellion; mourning over their sins; and the perishing of idols. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that salvation through Jesus does not give us the right to continue to live in sin. Salvation is a great gift and in order to thank God for it we need to change our ways.

At one time, all adult men who were physically able were required to attend three annual major events in Jerusalem. These events were to be full of joy and praise to God for His provision and protection but, this time Jeremiah did not give the crowd a joyful and warm welcome. "Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, Amend your ways and your doings, and I will cause you to dwell in this place. Trust ye not in lying words, saying, The temple of the LORD, The temple of the LORD, The temple of the LORD, are these. For if ye throughly amend your ways and your doings; if ye throughly execute judgment between a man and his neighbour; If ye oppress not the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, and shed not innocent blood in this place, neither walk after other gods to your hurt: Then will I cause you to dwell in this place, in the land that I gave to your fathers, for ever and ever." (Jeremiah 7:3-7).

Sadly, the people considered Jeremiah's preaching far too narrow-minded and would not tolerate this prophet of God. They were so confident that God would never allow them to be destroyed since they were His chosen people that they had a false sense of security and continued to sin. However, the Lord's Covenant's did not give His people the license to do whatever they please and live in constant sin without changing their ways. Jeremiah warns them, "The wise men are ashamed, they are dismayed and taken: lo, they have rejected the word of the LORD; and what wisdom is in them? Therefore will I give their wives unto others, and their fields to them that shall inherit them: for every one from the least even unto the greatest is given to covetousness, from the prophet even unto the priest every one dealeth falsely. For they have healed the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, Peace, peace; when there is no peace. Were they ashamed when they had committed abomination? nay, they were not at all ashamed, neither could they blush: therefore shall they fall among them that fall: in the time of their visitation they shall be cast down, saith the LORD. I will surely consume them, saith the LORD: there shall be no grapes on the vine, nor figs on the fig tree, and the leaf shall fade; and the things that I have given them shall pass away from them." (8:9-13). Some today even call themselves Christians, but they harbor secret sins and have unsubmitted hearts, but you can be sure that God knows everyones heart.

People foolishly assume that each person should have the freedom to worship whomever, or whatever, he chooses according to his own conscience, but this fails to consider the fallen and corrupted nature of man's soul when not knowing the Word of God. Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." (John 14:6).

Have a great and wonderful day!
God Bless,
Christina

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Studying God's Word 08.16.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Saturday August 16, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Jeremiah. Please read Chapters 4-6 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegatewa y.com/passage/?search=Jerem iah%204-6&version=9

Today we will read and learn about God's call for Israel; Jeremiah's sorrow for Judah; spiritual and civil corruption; and the destruction of Judah. Today's message focuses on the importance or understanding that reading and obeying God's Word keeps us from the destructive results of sin.

Peace Through Turmoil 08.14.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday August 14, 2008 and today we are completing our studies on the book of Isaiah. Please read Chapters 64-66 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & paste to browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaia h%2064-66&version=9

Today we will read and learn about our righteousness as filthy rags; a prayer for God's presence; and the punishment for rebelliousness. Today's message focuses on the importance of seeking God for peace. The more turmoil in our world, the more we need the peace that comes from obeying God's Word.

Isaiah's final prophecies about Jesus are included in these last three chapters, he also speaks of God's people being called by a new name and the creation of a new heaven and earth. "And ye shall leave your name for a curse unto my chosen: for the Lord GOD shall slay thee, and call his servants by another name: That he who blesseth himself in the earth shall bless himself in the God of truth; and he that sweareth in the earth shall swear by the God of truth; because the former troubles are forgotten, and because they are hid from mine eyes. For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind. But be ye glad and rejoice for ever in that which I create: for, behold, I create Jerusalem a rejoicing, and her people a joy." Isaiah 65:15-18).

There is a peace with God that is never ending, this peace is the promised inheritance of every child of God. Isaiah foretold how the Messiah would provide this marvelous peace, "For thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the Gentiles like a flowing stream: then shall ye suck, ye shall be borne upon her sides, and be dandled upon her knees. As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you; and ye shall be comforted in Jerusalem." (66:12-13).

God did not promise freedom from suffering, but He did promise to give us peace in the midst of them all. However, if we are to enjoy this peace we need to go to Him. God knows our problems and wants to help us, but unless we go to Him ourselves He will not intercede. It is just as if we are continually harrassed or hurt by someone and never seek help, nothing will be done about it until we actually ask for the help. "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened." (Matthew 7:78).

The Lord will allow our hearts and faith to be tested by Satan to become troubled and afraid, but His Word is always available to calmly face all troubles and fears. Don't forget it is the source of victory. Since God created us, He did not overlook anything in His Guide through life and knows exactly what we need physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

There is often a conflict between self will and God's will and it is through suffering that God provides an opportunity in which His life in us through Christ may win the victory over our old self willed nature. "For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it." (Mark 8:35).

In today's reading Jesus Christ is revealed as the Creator of new heavens and a new earth (Isaiah 65:17; 66:22)

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
God of hope and joy, we sing for joy because you have given us hope and joy. Our world is full of problems, yet the coming of the Messiah is reason for hope. We have come to worship in your special presence. Give us wisdom as we go to our places in daily life. Teach us and guide us as we deal with the problems of our world. In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a great and blessed day!
God Bless,
Christina

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Fasting & Prayer 08.13.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Wednesday August 13, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book Isaiah. Please read Chapters 58-63 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaia h%2058-63&version=9

Today we will read and learn about true fasting; sin, confession, and redemption; the future glory of Jerusalem; the day of vengeance; and God's loving kindness toward Israel. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that we need to really think about what we are praying to God and the steps we take in order to have our prayers answered.

Our prayers and fasting are effective only when our attitude and our relationship with others unconditionally expresses the mercy and love of God. God knows our real motives and intents when we fast and through Isaiah explains the incorrect and proper way in which to do so. "Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his soul? is it to bow down his head as a bulrush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the LORD? Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy reward." (Isaiah 58:4-8). 

God reveals that fasting is not a way to impress the world of hpw religious they were, but a way to break free from the bondage of sins as well as seeking refuge when one is full of burdens or ill. Fasting brings us closer to God and helps us to put others before ourselves, we are to go about our day helping others and use the time when we are hungry to meditate on God's Word and prayer.

A Saviour From Sin 08.12.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Tuesday July 12, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Isaiah, Please read Chapters 52-57 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaia h%2052-57&version=9

Today we will read and learn about the foretelling of Christ to bear our grief, the suffering, and sin; the Lord's everlasting love for Israel; that everyone is a sinner; and a call to faith and repentance. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that there is no more important message in all the world than the Good News that Jesus died for our sins.

The Jews of the first century were looking for a warrior-king, like David, to deliver them from the oppression of Rome. However, Isaiah had foretold of the Messiah, "Behold, my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high. As many were astonied at thee; his visage was so marred more than any man, and his form more than the sons of men: So shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their mouths at him: for that which had not been told them shall they see; and that which they had not heard shall they consider." (Isaiah 52:13-15).

Written seven centuries before Christ died on the cross God revealed to this to Isaiah. It is so vivid that it seems Isaiah is standing right there at the foot of the cross describing the Savior's sacrifice and suffering to us. "He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all." (53:3-6).

Isaiah foretold of the suffering that Jesus would have to endure to redeem a sinner. As we read the first four books of the New Testament, we realize that these prophecies of Isaiah, from naming the place of Christ's birth, His significant birth, to the specific details of His sacrificial death and resurrection, were all fulfilled.

Christ suffered and died on the cross in our place and conquered death by His resurrection. It was on the cross that He revealed His love and made the supreme sacrifice so each one of us could receive forgiveness for our sins. "And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem." (Luke 24:44-47).

In today's reading Jesus Christ is revealed as the One who was rejected by His own people (Isaiah 53:3), remained silent when He was falsely accused (Isaiah 53:7), was buried with the rich (Isaiah 53:9), and was crucified with sinners (Isaiah 53:12).

Today's Prayer:

Dear Lord,
Nothing brings abiding peace more than knowing that we are saved from the penalty of sin and that we are firmly grounded in Your holy precepts. It makes us feel safe in a struggling world that continues to search for knowledge from all the wrong sources. We are sound in our outlook when we align our understanding and convictions with the teachings of Christ, His disciples and the prophets of old. In You we are saved and we are sound. In Your mighty name Jesus.....Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day!
God Bless,
Christina

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God's Assurance 08.10.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Sunday August 10, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Isaiah. Please read Chapters 43-46 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaia h%2043-46&version=9

Today we will read and learn about God's care for Israel; the foolsihness of idolatry; the destruction and rebuilding of Jerusalem and the Temple; God's purpose for Cyrus; the power of the Lord and the weakness of idols. Today's message focuses on the importance of realzing that no matter how high the walls of opposition are, God knows how to win the battles of our lives and assures us through His Word that we can endure all affliction.

The Lord's love and mercy in these chapters assures Israel that they will be redeemed, restored, and be His witness. Through Isaiah, God foretold Israel of the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple. However, at that time the nation was still enjoying freedom, prosperity and felt very secure and rejected Isaiah's prophecy. "Let all the nations be gathered together, and let the people be assembled: who among them can declare this, and shew us former things? let them bring forth their witnesses, that they may be justified: or let them hear, and say, It is truth. Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. I, even I, am the LORD; and beside me there is no saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, that I am God." (Isaiah 43:9-12)

At that time, Babylon, the capital city of the Chaldean dynasty, was surrounded by massive walls about 300 feet high. The Babylonians were certain that no one could invade their great city. However, Isaiah foretold that a man named Cyrus would conquer Babylon 150 years before it took place. "Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I am the LORD that maketh all things; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself; That frustrateth the tokens of the liars, and maketh diviners mad; that turneth wise men backward, and maketh their knowledge foolish; That confirmeth the word of his servant, and performeth the counsel of his messengers; that saith to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be inhabited; and to the cities of Judah, Ye shall be built, and I will raise up the decayed places thereof: That saith to the deep, Be dry, and I will dry up thy rivers: That saith of Cyrus, He is my shepherd, and shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid." (Isaiah 44:24-28).

Babylon thought itself invincible because of its walls, as well as the great brass gates spanning the Euphrates which ran through its center. However, God declared exactly how the city would be taken by the armies of Cyrus. The river would dry up and the Lord would see that the gates across it would be left unlocked. And that is exactly what happened when Darius, the Mede, under the rule of Cyrus entered the city the same fateful night that King Belshazzar of Babylon saw the handwriting of God on the wall (See Daniel 5:1-31). Only the Spirit of God could have given Isaiah such amazing details about Cyrus at least 150 years before he was born.

Many also see this as Babylon's fall in Revelation. At the end of the kingdom of Judah's 70 years of captivity, this was fulfilled exactly as foretold by the prophet. This fact should dispel all doubt regarding the Lord's loving concern and care for His followers. No prophecy seemed more unlikely to be fulfilled. Yet, all these things happened exactly as Isaiah foretold.

Even though Jerusalem faced destruction they had the assurance of God that through it all they will be safe, protected, and blessed even more as they endure their affliction. All who put their trust and faith in God will receive the same love, protection and blessings that we read here in this wonderful book. "He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah." (Psalm 62:6-8).

In today's reading Jesus Christ is revealed As the Redeemer (Isaiah 43:1; 44:22-24). Through His death on the cross, Christ has redeemed (bought back) all who trust Him as Savior.

Today's Prayer:

Dear Lord,
Your grace and tender mercies are present in the midst of perplexing situations that develop in our lives and the lives of those whom we love.  Your sovereign power working within us takes the bad things that Satan hurls at us and turns them into testimonies of praise and thanksgiving when we seek to glorify You in the midst of suffering. Only a God like You can help us not to be overcome by evil, but to overcome evil with good.  As we share in Your sufferings, we also share in Your glory. Be glorifed in our lives; in the good, in the bad, and in the mysterious circumstances of our lives. In Jesus name.....Amen.

Have a great and blessed Lord's day.
God Bless,
Christina

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Peace With Jesus 08.06.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Wednesday August 8, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Isaiah. Please read Chapters 22-26 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaia h%2022-26&version=9

Today we will read and learn about the prophecy of Jerusalem; the destruction of Babylon and Tyre; Isaiah glorifying God; and God's dominion over Judah. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that we often forfeit His peace by choosing to disobey His Word. Disobedience causes guilt and guilt robs us of His peace.

Isaiah's prophecy of Christ was first directed to Judah, then to Israel, then to the surrounding Gentile nations, and finally to all the world. "He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken it. And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the LORD; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation." (Isaiah 25:8-9).

Just as surely as many of the prophecies were fulfilled in ancient history, we can also expect that the Messiah Jesus will return as Christ the King. He will give eternal life to both Jews and Gentiles who have received Him as Lord of their lives.

Many believers are actually experiencing unnecessary frustration through manifold temptations, sorrows, suffering, and disappointments that overshadow Christ's presence. His peace becomes more like the uncertain weather or wind on a dark night. "Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in. Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:" (26:2-4).

Sometimes God has been pleased to withdraw our assurance of His presence for a season in order to strengthen our faith in Him. "Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby." (Hebrews 12:11). 

His presence does not depend on our feelings, which are as changeable as the clouds, but in the unchangeableness of His love. "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." (Hebrews 11:1).

Our independent, self-sufficient human nature does not willingly renounce its self-sufficiency. His peace is experienced when we recognize that He will not withhold anything from us. He will always bless us with the things that we are need and desire as long as we are not asking for things that will harm us or others.

In today's reading Jesus Christ is revealed through Eliakim, master of Hezekiah's household (Isaiah 22:20-22); what was said of him is true of Christ who is also Master over the household of faith.

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from You. As recipients of Your tender compassions and tremendous comfort help us to be like cisterns pouring out the mercies we receive from You into the lives of those who desperately need it. In Jesus name.....Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day!
God Bless you,
Christina

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Quench Your Thirst 07.04.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Monday August 4, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Isaiah. Please read Chapters 10-14 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaia h%2010-14&version=9

Today we will read and learn about Assyria to be broken; the promise of Israel's restoration; Christ, the Branch; thanksgiving for God's mercies; Babylon's doom predicted; and Israel's  preservation. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that our soul thirsts for the Living Water who is Jesus. The hard times that come to our lives give opportunity to show the operation of God's grace to a thirsty world.

Isaiah foretold the return of Jesus to earth and His glorious millennial reign, "And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots: And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD; And shall make him of quick understanding in the fear of the LORD: and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither reprove after the hearing of his ears: But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth: with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked." (Isaiah 11:1-4). The promise made through Isaiah of the Ruler who would come from King David, the Root of Jesse, is far-reaching and anticipates the millennial reign of Christ to be followed by the new heavens and the new earth.

Salvation and fellowship with Jesus are two great themes of the Bible. All who trust in His Word receive the Living Water of Salvation and have experienced spiritual satisfaction beyond compare. "And in that day thou shalt say, O LORD, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me. Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD JEHOVAH is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation. Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation." (12:1-3). It then becomes our way of life and our greatest joy is to lead others to the wellspring of eternal life. His well of life giving water is truly overflowing and inexhaustible just as the nature of God.

Jesus said to the Samaritan woman, "But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life." (John 4:14). His invitation is to come to the wells of salvation. All the wells of salvation are in Christ; and from Him the believer receives the priceless water that satisfies the truly thirsty. "In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water." (John 7:37-38).

We can not afford to neglect the joy of drawing from the water of salvation provided in His Word for the day-by-day cleansing from all sin. There is a precious assurance of acceptance and fellowship with God. This comfort is real, abiding, and inexpressibly precious.

In today's reading Jesus Christ is revealed as the Descendant of Jesse, King David's father (Isaiah 11:1). Isaiah 11 reveals Christ's earthly rule of righteousness.

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
We earnestly seek You for wisdom regarding the daily circumstances of our lives. Help us to incline our hearts toward You for understanding all that You have to teach us in the lessons of life. During the quiet sessions when Your voice seems silent help us to trust You knowing that You work all things out for our good,  for Your glory, and in Your time. Help us to quench our thirst on the Living Water that we need to keep us from drying out. In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a great and wonderful day and week!
God Bless,
Christina

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Our Mighty Creator 08.03.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Sunday August 3, 2008 and today we are continuing our studies on the book of Isaiah. Please read Chapters 5-9 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaia h%205-9&version=9

Today we will read and learn about God's judgment upon sinners; Isaiah's vision of God's holiness; his message for King Ahaz; and the foretelling of Christ's birth and His Kingdom. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing that God calls us to be holy in our hearts and our lives in order that we may be effective witnesses.

Isaiah the prophet lived in Jerusalem, the capital of Judah. His ministry continued for 50 to 60 years through the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, Hezekiah, and possibly Manasseh. "In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the LORD sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke. Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts." (Isaiah 6:1-5). Isaiah saw himself as utterly unfit to stand in the presence of the Almighty Holy One. For guilty men there is cleansing; and lips, once unclean, can be made holy. The greatest obstacle is self-satisfaction and self-sufficiency.

When we see God as the Holy and Mighty Creator, like Isaiah, we can't help but see ourselves as unclean. This self-evaluation is made in response to the fact that we have seen the Most Holy God. He submitted himself as an instrument in God's hand in self-surrender. He was ready to go where God might lead him.

Isaiah was called to prophesy to an unbelieving and sinful generation that had forsaken God, "And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not. Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed. Then said I, Lord, how long? And he answered, Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate, And the LORD have removed men far away, and there be a great forsaking in the midst of the land." (6:9-12). It was an age of international political tension and prosperity when only a minority in the kingdom of Judah remained faithful to God. The Northern Kingdom of Israel, under Jeroboam II, also was enjoying prosperity; but it was even more corrupt than Judah.

In the midst of evil and unbelief, God foretold the coming Messiah to Isaiah to proclaim it to an evil king, "And he said, Hear ye now, O house of David; Is it a small thing for you to weary men, but will ye weary my God also? Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Butter and honey shall he eat, that he may know to refuse the evil, and choose the good." (7:13-15). The name Immanuel means "God with us." Not only does the prophet foretell the virgin birth of Jesus, but he also reveals His deity. He received also another glorious revelation of Christ, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace." (9:6).

We recognize the fulfillment of that prophecy in Jesus, who was born and later crucified, providing eternal life to all believers by dying on the cross for our sins and by His triumph over death. Not only was His first advent declared, but also His second. We can rejoice as we look forward to the time when He will reign in righteousness on earth as the most Wonderful Counselor.

The call of God demands that we be faithful, not always successful. Men measure by success, but God by faithfulness.

In today's message Jesus Christ is revealed as Immnauel (Isaiah 7:13). Other prophecies concerning Jesus are found in Isaiah 8:14, 9:2,6-7.

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
We are so very grateful that our family roots are not the sole source of who we are nor does it dictate what we can accomplish. Our spiritual roots, because of our well-grounded faith in You, goes much deeper and spreads much broader. We are able to accomplish the impossible and overcome life’s difficulties because our roots are connected to the True Miracle Worker and that is You.  May the water of Your Holy Spirit quench our thirst and the spiritual food from Your inspired Holy Word satisfy our hunger causing us to grow in spiritual maturity. We remain safe and securely rooted in You, Lord, though the winds and storms may shake us from time to time. It is in You that we live and move and have our being! In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a great and wonderful Lord's day!
God Bless,
Christina

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God's Mercy & Grace 08.02.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Saturday August 2, 2008 and today we will begin our studies on the book of Isaiah. Please read Chapters 1-4 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser: biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaia h%201-4&version=9

Today we will read and learn about Judah's sins, Isaiah's plea to Judah, God's reasoning with Judah, and Isaiah foretelling Judah's defeat. Today's message focuses on the importance of realizing the God forgives all of our sins and to set aside a special time daily to give God thanks for being so merciful and gracious.

The book of Isaiah is the twenty-third book of the Old Testament and contains 66 chapters. The book is the beginning of the last group of books which are the Books of Prophesy. These books contain the writting of the prophets that God used to call His people back to Him. The book is often compared to the entire Bible as it contains the same subjects in both new and old testaments. The book was written by Isaiah to Judah and warns of coming judgment against them because of their sins against God. The purpose of the book is to teach us about correction and rebuke, rebellion leads to punishment, and repentance leads to restoration.

Isaiah opens revealing his credentials, "The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah." (Isaiah 1:1). Judah had been chosen to be the Lord's instrument of blessing to all nations, but they rejected His Word and became a sinful nation. "Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the LORD, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward." (1:4)

Isaiah was greatly burdened over the sins of the nation of Judah and pleaded with them to listen to God. "Hear the word of the LORD, ye rulers of Sodom; give ear unto the law of our God, ye people of Gomorrah." (1:10). Even their worship had become an abomination, "Bring no more vain oblations; incense is an abomination unto me; the new moons and sabbaths, the calling of assemblies, I cannot away with; it is iniquity, even the solemn meeting. Your new moons and your appointed feasts my soul hateth: they are a trouble unto me; I am weary to bear them." (1:13-14).

The outflow of holy displeasure contained in earlier portions of this chapter should prepare us to expect an everlasting condemnation upon all sinners. But, instead, it is surprisingly followed by the most loving appeal ever presented by God all of His creation. "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:" (1:18-19).

Isaiah foretold Judah's devasting defeat, "And it shall come to pass, that instead of sweet smell there shall be stink; and instead of a girdle a rent; and instead of well set hair baldness; and instead of a stomacher a girding of sackcloth; and burning instead of beauty. Thy men shall fall by the sword, and thy mighty in the war. And her gates shall lament and mourn; and she being desolate shall sit upon the ground." (3:24-26).

As repulsive as sin is to God His loving arms are extended to forgive, to restore, and to comfort all who will come to Him and ask for forgiveness.

It is by His mercy and grace that we are forgiven, "Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:14-16). And any sin that is repented is wiped away from the "book of life" never to be remembered. "He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels." (Revelation 3:5).

Let us daily meditate and pray the prayer that Jesus has taught us, "After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen." (Matthew 6:9-13).

In today's reading Jesus Christ is revealed as the One who will judge the nations (Isaiah 2:2-4). Jesus will judge us all, "I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;" (II timothy 4:1).

Today's prayer:
Dear Lord,
Nothing brings abiding peace more than knowing that we are saved from the penalty of sin and that we are firmly forgiven by Your mercy and grace. It makes us feel safe in a struggling world that continues to search for knowledge from all the wrong sources. Our wisdom is based upon our knowledge and understanding of You, our eternal Father, the One who changes not. In You we are saved and protected. In Jesus' name.....Amen.

Have a wonderful day and weekend!
God bless,
Christina

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Jesus, Our Bridegroom 08.01.08

Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Friday August 1, 2008 and today we are studying the book of Songs of Solomon. Please read Chapters 1-8 in your Bible or Click Here to read. Cut & Paste to your browser:
biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Song% 20of%20Solomon%201-8& version=9

Today we will read and learn about the virtues of married love and the symbolic of Christ's love for the Church. Today's messages compares marriage to our relationship with Jesus

Song of Solomon is the twenty-second book of the Old Testament and contains 8 chapters. The book was written by King Solomon to the people in Isreal and all believers. The purpose of the book is to show the relationship between Jesus and the Church as demonstrated by the marriage relationship. What we are to learn from the book is the divine model of love between a man and his wife as the pattern for a relationship between Christ and the Church. Solomon represents the bridegroom (Jesus Christ) and the Shulamite girl is the bride (the Church).

The wholesome enjoyment of married love between a man and a woman is expressed and begins with categorical language in the delight of the bridegroom in the bride and of the bride in her bridegroom. "The song of songs, which is Solomon's. Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for thy love is better than wine. Because of the savour of thy good ointments thy name is as ointment poured forth, therefore do the virgins love thee. Draw me, we will run after thee: the king hath brought me into his chambers: we will be glad and rejoice in thee, we will remember thy love more than wine: the upright love thee." (Song of Solomon 1:1-4).

Sometimes we enjoy a very close sense of the presence of Christ. But, all too often, His presence seems far away. Yet our love for Him continues to grow as we wait expectantly for that first glimpse of Him when He welcomes us home as His bride. "My beloved is mine, and I am his: he feedeth among the lilies." (2:16). Every believer is assured that my beloved is mine, and I am his, for Jesus Christ has entered into our very lives. Our love relationship continues to grow and deepen as we listen to Him speak to us as we read His Word. We become different persons by virtue of our relationship with the coming Bridegroom