A Spiritual Guide

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Sunday March 29, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Judges. Please read chapters 15-17 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%2015-17&version=9

Today's Message: Unequally Yoked
The word yoked means to be or become joined, linked, or united with someone or thing. It is importat that we as Christians not become yoked with unbelievers because it keeps us from fulfilling God's Will in our lives.

Samson judged Israel for twenty years, but there is no record that he ever expressed a desire to be used by God to deliver the Israelites from the Philistine's control. So, it is no surprise to learn that he never really did much for God unless he had his own personal agenda in mind for doing it nor did he pray for guidance and protection.

First, he refused to follow God's will by making friends with and even marrying a Philistine woman. It was only out of the anger of his father-in-law giving his wife to another man that he went after the Philistines. "But it came to pass within a while after, in the time of wheat harvest, that Samson visited his wife with a kid; and he said, I will go in to my wife into the chamber. But her father would not suffer him to go in. And her father said, I verily thought that thou hadst utterly hated her; therefore I gave her to thy companion: is not her younger sister fairer than she? take her, I pray thee, instead of her. And Samson said concerning them, Now shall I be more blameless than the Philistines, though I do them a displeasure." (Judges 15:1-3). Samson disregarded everyone in his life to fulfill his own desires, it was only when he did not get what he wanted that he acted on those emotions.

Secondly, he never thanked God nor trusted in Him to provide for him. "And he was sore athirst, and called on the LORD, and said, Thou hast given this great deliverance into the hand of thy servant: and now shall I die for thirst, and fall into the hand of the uncircumcised? But God clave an hollow place that was in the jaw, and there came water thereout; and when he had drunk, his spirit came again, and he revived: wherefore he called the name thereof Enhakkore, which is in Lehi unto this day. And he judged Israel in the days of the Philistines twenty years." (Judges 15:18-20). Samson failed to recognize that God was with him helping him to defeat the Philistines, never once do we read of him giving thanks to God or trusting in Him to provide for his needs.

Lastly, he became deeply involved with Delilah, another Philistine woman whose also only desried to please herself. "And it came to pass afterward, that he loved a woman in the valley of Sorek, whose name was Delilah. And the lords of the Philistines came up unto her, and said unto her, Entice him, and see wherein his great strength lieth, and by what means we may prevail against him, that we may bind him to afflict him; and we will give thee every one of us eleven hundred pieces of silver." (16:4-5). When Samson saw Delilah, he should have run for the hills, but instead, once again, followed his own desires and ran right into her deceptive ways. He became blinded by sin and the reason he had been given such great strength.

Sadly, we learn that Samson was defeated and forced to take the place of an animal and spend his time turning the mill to grind corn into meal for his captors. "And when Delilah saw that he had told her all his heart, she sent and called for the lords of the Philistines, saying, Come up this once, for he hath shewed me all his heart. Then the lords of the Philistines came up unto her, and brought money in their hand. And she made him sleep upon her knees; and she called for a man, and she caused him to shave off the seven locks of his head; and she began to afflict him, and his strength went from him. And she said, The Philistines be upon thee, Samson. And he awoke out of his sleep, and said, I will go out as at other times before, and shake myself. And he wist not that the LORD was departed from him. But the Philistines took him, and put out his eyes, and brought him down to Gaza, and bound him with fetters of brass; and he did grind in the prison house." (16:18-21).

The tragic story of Samson should send a strong message to every Christian who has fallen into the treacherous web of sinful pleasures. Too often, they ignore God by making friends and even marrying those who are ungodly due to their own personal desires, causing much pain and suffering not only to themselves, but everyone around them. That is why it is important that we do not hang out with nor marry unbelievers. "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).

No matter how good looking, nice, or helpful unbelievers are we can not let ourselves become friends or spouses with them because they will slowly drive us away from God and into worldly living. Now, I am sure there are some readers that are suffering right now due to this reason, I pray that God will give you the guidance, strength, and help you need to get through your situation.

Today's Psalm: 5:8
"Lead me, O LORD, in thy righteousness because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before my face."

Have a wonderful and blessed week.
God bless,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Saturday March 28, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Judges. Please read chapters 12-14 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy & paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%2012-14&version=9

Today's Message: Fulfilling God's WillAfter Jephthah there were three more judges until the Philistines had control over the Israelites. "And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD; and the LORD delivered them into the hand of the Philistines forty years." (Judges 13:1).
During that time and man named Samson was born. "And the angel of the LORD appeared unto the woman, and said unto her, Behold now, thou art barren, and bearest not: but thou shalt conceive, and bear a son.........And the woman bare a son, and called his name Samson: and the child grew, and the LORD blessed him." (13:3,24).

Unlike Jephthah, Samson had a godly mother and father who desired to train him to live a godly life. Samson's mother was deeply concerned that her son be fully dedicated to the Lord. Eventually, Samson ruled as a judge. However, early in his life, he disregarded his holy calling. His first recorded act of unfaithfulness was his friendship with the Philistines, who were enemies of God, he was interested in a Philistine woman. "And Samson went down to Timnath, and saw a woman in Timnath of the daughters of the Philistines. And he came up, and told his father and his mother, and said, I have seen a woman in Timnath of the daughters of the Philistines: now therefore get her for me to wife. Then his father and his mother said unto him, Is there never a woman among the daughters of thy brethren, or among all my people, that thou goest to take a wife of the uncircumcised Philistines? And Samson said unto his father, Get her for me; for she pleaseth me well. But his father and his mother knew not that it was of the LORD, that he sought an occasion against the Philistines: for at that time the Philistines had dominion over Israel." (14:1-4). It seems that Samson was easily distracted with his own physical desires and satisfactions, instead of fulfilling what the Lord had called him to do.

Even though Samson did do some things for God, he fell short of fulfilling his true calling. His self willed life results in sorrow and suffering not only for himself, but for everyone around him, even for us today. Some of the suffering that we deal with today are a result from our ancestors. All of us have the desire to please ourselves, self pleasure comes in many forms, pride, jealousy, theft, refusing to tithe, sexual sins, hate, avoiding responsibilities, and the use of drugs or alcohol are mere examples of things that we have done to satisfy those desires.

However, the sins we commit have a deep effect on those around us, even if we are doing them only to ourselves. Every day that we continue to knowingly sin, Satan's hold becomes stronger, and our opportunities for deliverance become less likely. Perhaps the greatest deceptive sin of all is that many presume that the mercy and long-suffering of God will continue no matter how much they continue to sin. " Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." (Galatians 6:7-9)

As a Nazarite, Samson was meant to be an example of loyal commitment to God before all Israel. We too are called upon to be separated from the world with a desire to fulfill the Lord's will, but only in the measure in which we allow Christ to guide our lives daily shall we be able to truly fulfill His will. "Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is." (Ephesians 5:14-17).

Today's Psalm: 34:22
"The LORD redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate."

Have a wonderful and blessed night/day and weekend.
God Bless,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Thursday March 26, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Judges. Please read Chapters 10 & 11 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this one into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Judge s" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Judge s" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%2010-11&version=9

Today's Message: Be A Testimony
By remaining faithful to God and His Word, you will be a good testimony and in a position to help others when the Lord calls on you to serve Him.

We learn of two more judges who were chosen to guide the Israelites after the death of Abimelech. " And after Abimelech there arose to defend Israel Tola the son of Puah, the son of Dodo, a man of Issachar; and he dwelt in Shamir in mount Ephraim.And he judged Israel twenty and three years, and died, and was buried in Shamir.And after him arose Jair, a Gileadite, and judged Israel twenty and two years. And he had thirty sons that rode on thirty ass colts, and they had thirty cities, which are called Havothjair unto this day, which are in the land of Gilead. And Jair died, and was buried in Camon." (Judges 10:1-5).

Once again the Israelites went back to their wicked ways, then cried to God to save them, but this time God did not come to their aid. "And the LORD said unto the children of Israel, Did not I deliver you from the Egyptians, and from the Amorites, from the children of Ammon, and from the Philistines? The Zidonians also, and the Amalekites, and the Maonites, did oppress you; and ye cried to me, and I delivered you out of their hand. Yet ye have forsaken me, and served other gods: wherefore I will deliver you no more. Go and cry unto the gods which ye have chosen; let them deliver you in the time of your tribulation." (10:11-14). There comes a time when God will only take so much before he stops answering our cries.

However, once the Israelites realized that God was not going to save them they put away their strange gods and started serving Him. "And they put away the strange gods from among them, and served the LORD: and his soul was grieved for the misery of Israel." (10:16). Sometimes God will allow us to suffer so that we can get right with Him. Many people do not understand how much God really does love us, He is our father so of course He is going to get angry when we continuously live sin knowing well that it is the wrong thing to do. He is no different from an earthly father when he makes us suffer the consequences of our own actions. When we take responsibility for them and change our ways then we get his respect and assistance.

Jephthah was a godly man, but because he was an illegitimate child to a harlot he was forced to leave Gilead. "Now Jephthah the Gileadite was a mighty man of valour, and he was the son of an harlot: and Gilead begat Jephthah. And Gilead's wife bare him sons; and his wife's sons grew up, and they thrust out Jephthah, and said unto him, Thou shalt not inherit in our father's house; for thou art the son of a strange woman." (11:1-2). The Israelites found out quickly though that Jephthah was needed. "And the elders of Gilead said unto Jephthah, Therefore we turn again to thee now, that thou mayest go with us, and fight against the children of Ammon, and be our head over all the inhabitants of Gilead." (11:8).

Like Jephthah, many Christians are alienated even by other Christians because of their background or past and it usually takes a tragedy before they realize their mistake. It is important that we never judge a person by how they were brought up nor their past. We are all sinners and all who accept Jesus as their Savior are saved and no matter what we have done we are saved. God gives us all an opportunity to be a testimony of how we turned from being a worthless sinner to being a righteous servant. By the way, all Christians will experience many tests in life. This is the way that God prepares us for the work He has called us to do. By the grace of God, accept with gratitude all the sorrows that come into your life whether it be through friend or enemy, failures or humiliations because they create the foundation of a wonderful Christ filled life.

Today's Psalm: 32:10
"Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the LORD, mercy shall compass him about."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Help me to remain faithful to You and your calling upon my life. Strengthen and grow my faith as I daily search Your Scriptures and apply their truths to my spiritual walk. As I go through the trials and experiences of my earthly journey would You fix my eyes and my ever-wandering heart upon Jesus. When the howling winds and forceful storms of this life attempt to shipwreck my faith may they instead prove my faith to be more than sufficient to withstand the continual assaults from the enemy. Because I take refuge in Jesus my spiritual foundation is firm, always dependable, and leads me to glorious victory. In Jesus' Name.......Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed night/day.
God Bless,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Wednesday March 25, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Judges. Please read Chapters 8 & 9 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this one into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%208-9&version=9

Today's Message: Forces of Greed
We all want the best things in life, but when those things become more important that God that is when we lose them.

As we learned from yesterday's reading that Gideon was called of God to deliver the Israelites from the Midianites. Thirty-two thousand men responded to Gideon's call to war, but God chose to use just 300 men to defeat them. With only 300 men, God led them to victory and 135,000 Midianite soldiers were defeated in the battle. This illustrates one powerful principle. God would not act without man's cooperation, and Israel could have not overcome the enemy without the wisdom and power of God.

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

We too have only One King, yes we may have several people to obey in life, but there is only One True King, our Lord Jesus Christ. " That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen." (I Timothy 6:14-16).

The Israelites were peaceful and content while Gideon was alive, but soon after his death they fell right back into sin. "And Gideon the son of Joash died in a good old age, and was buried in the sepulchre of Joash his father, in Ophrah of the Abiezrites. And it came to pass, as soon as Gideon was dead, that the children of Israel turned again, and went a whoring after Baalim, and made Baalberith their god. And the children of Israel remembered not the LORD their God, who had delivered them out of the hands of all their enemies on every side: Neither shewed they kindness to the house of Jerubbaal, namely, Gideon, according to all the goodness which he had shewed unto Israel." (8:32-35).

Gideon's son, Abimelech was cruel and cunning and would stop at nothing to get what he wanted. As soon as Gideon died he negotiated a large sum of money from the Baal temple treasury to pay men to murder 70 of his brothers, who might have challenged his leadership. "And Abimelech the son of Jerubbaal went to Shechem unto his mother's brethren, and communed with them, and with all the family of the house of his mother's father, saying, Speak, I pray you, in the ears of all the men of Shechem, Whether is better for you, either that all the sons of Jerubbaal, which are threescore and ten persons, reign over you, or that one reign over you? remember also that I am your bone and your flesh. And his mother's brethren spake of him in the ears of all the men of Shechem all these words: and their hearts inclined to follow Abimelech; for they said, He is our brother. And they gave him threescore and ten pieces of silver out of the house of Baalberith, wherewith Abimelech hired vain and light persons, which followed him. And he went unto his father's house at Ophrah, and slew his brethren the sons of Jerubbaal, being threescore and ten persons, upon one stone: notwithstanding yet Jotham the youngest son of Jerubbaal was left; for he hid himself." (9:1-5). At the moment of Abimelech's proudest achievement, Jotham, who escaped execution, warned that they would soon discover that this self made king would bring suffering and death upon them as well as upon himself.

Abimelech is an example of a person controlled by the deceptive and destructive forces of greed. He was determined to pursue his selfish needs regardless of whom he hurt. He is a reminder that we can not become obsessive by the treasures of the world. God provides us with all our needs and even blesses us with things we desire, but do not be deceived. God knows our hearts. "Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting." (Galatians 6:7-8).

Today's Psalm: 36:1-2
"The transgression of the wicked saith within my heart, that there is no fear of God before his eyes. For he flattereth himself in his own eyes, until his iniquity be found to be hateful."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Help us to rid ourselves of habits and attitudes that bring a complaining, greedy, ungrateful or begrudging spirit. Renew us with a persistent spirit of joyful praise, contentment, and gratitude for as long as we live. We rejoice in your goodness toward us and in Your steadfast love that never ceases.  In Jesus' Name.......Amen.

Have a blessed night/day.
God Bless You,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Tuesday March 24, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Judges. Please read chapters 6 & 7 in your Bible, or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Judge s" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Judge s" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%206-7&version=9

Today's Message: You Are Important
God specializes in using those who are small or insignificant to the world to do mighty things for His glory.

Once again the Israelites did evil in the sight of God and became enslaved, this time they were enslaved by the Midianites. "And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD: and the LORD delivered them into the hand of Midian seven years. And the hand of Midian prevailed against Israel: and because of the Midianites the children of Israel made them the dens which are in the mountains, and caves, and strong holds. And so it was, when Israel had sown, that the Midianites came up, and the Amalekites, and the children of the east, even they came up against them;..........And Israel was greatly impoverished because of the Midianites; and the children of Israel cried unto the LORD." (Judges 6:1-3,6). Regardless of what age we live in, when we continuously live in sin we become enslaved by the sin. Had the Israelites just kept their distance from those who they knew would corrupt them they would not have fallen into the hands of the Medianites.

The Israelites cried for God to release them from the Medianites control. "And it came to pass, when the children of Israel cried unto the LORD because of the Midianites, That the LORD sent a prophet unto the children of Israel, which said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I brought you up from Egypt, and brought you forth out of the house of bondage; And I delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of the hand of all that oppressed you, and drave them out from before you, and gave you their land; And I said unto you, I am the LORD your God; fear not the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but ye have not obeyed my voice." (6:7-10).
The people were left with the consciousness and consequences of their sins with no hope of relief. They needed to recognize that their miserable suffering was the direct result of their disregarding the Word of God.

God called Gideon, a simple, God-fearing man from the half-tribe of Manasseh where Baal worship was popular to break the Israelites free. We tend to think that the only people God can use are those who have influence in their communities. But, often those people are too busy, want to do it their way, or would rather compromise than lose their popularity. Gideon was truly a man of inexperience and uncertainty, but he unconditionally obeyed the Lord without fear of the opposition.

The number of men and women who are dedicated enough to accomplish the will of God at any cost is surprisingly small. But the believer's strength to win the battle comes from the Lord. We may seem small and insignificant to the world, but with God we can accomplish anything that He entrusts us with. Stop worrying about what the world thinks of you, God knows Your heart and knows just how important You are.

Today's Psalm: 25:1-3
"Unto thee, O LORD, do I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me. Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
We have seen throughout Biblical and modern history that Your people perish due to lack of knowledge. The treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden in Your heart. So we can be confident that when we seek the heart of our Father we are also increasing in spiritual knowledge that comes from our loving relationship with You. Thank You for the Holy Spirit, our Helper, whom You sent to teach us and to bring to remembrance all things that You have taught us through Scripture. Your knowledge will preserve us through the fiery trials of this life. In Jesus' name.......Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed night/day.
God Bless,
Christina

Visit A Spiritual Guide
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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Monday March 23, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Judges. Please read chapters 3-5 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this one into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Judge s" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Judge s" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%203-5&version=9

Today's Message: Destruction By Compromise

We continue to learn from the Israelites the dangers of compromising with the world and the destruction that occurs by doing so. Although Joshua had executed all of the Canaanite kings, some of the people still occupied the promised land. "Now these are the nations which the LORD left, to prove Israel by them, even as many of Israel as had not known all the wars of Canaan; Only that the generations of the children of Israel might know, to teach them war, at the least such as before knew nothing thereof; Namely, five lords of the Philistines, and all the Canaanites, and the Sidonians, and the Hivites that dwelt in mount Lebanon, from mount Baalhermon unto the entering in of Hamath. And they were to prove Israel by them, to know whether they would hearken unto the commandments of the LORD, which he commanded their fathers by the hand of Moses. And the children of Israel dwelt among the Canaanites, Hittites, and Amorites, and Perizzites, and Hivites, and Jebusites: And they took their daughters to be their wives, and gave their daughters to their sons, and served their gods. And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and forgat the LORD their God, and served Baalim and the groves." (Judges 3:1-7).

The major mistake in the downfall of the Israelites was their disregard for following God's commandments. "And God spake all these words, saying, I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments........" (Exodus 20:1-6). Had they followed God's commandments they would have never made an alliance with the Canaanites which led them to dwell with them, interact with them, and intermarry with them. This could only prove disastrous as the Israelites fell away from God completely and into the control of an enemy nation.

The outcome was certain because sin separates the sinner from the protective love of God. Several times we read about the Israelites falling away from God, living in sin for years, then crying out to Him. "Therefore the anger of the LORD was hot against Israel, and he sold them into the hand of Chushanrishathaim (Chu-shan-rish-a-tha-im) king of Mesopotamia: and the children of Israel served Chushanrishathaim eight years. And when the children of Israel cried unto the LORD, the LORD raised up a deliverer to the children of Israel, who delivered them, even Othniel the son of Kenaz, Caleb's younger brother. And the Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he judged Israel, and went out to war: and the LORD delivered Chushanrishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand; and his hand prevailed against Chushanrishathaim.And the land had rest forty years. And Othniel the son of Kenaz died." (Judges 3:8-11). Failing to learn from their sinful past, the Israelites continued the same cycle of sin, repentance, and deliverance for about 450 years.

When we continue to live in sin, knowing well that we are doing wrong we too are put to side so to speak until we come to God and cry out to Him. We learn from Israel's history that, regardless of how far we have back slidden into sin, our merciful God in heaven always hears the prayers of those who confess their sins and commit their lives to Him. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (I John 1:9). Often we are so taken up with condemning ourselves and others that, when we fall short of being what we know is right, we forget that God does love us and forgives us no matter what we have done. So don't give up. We need to recognize that God loves to forgive. "Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven." (Matthew 18:21-22).

Although God is a forgivable God do not make the mistake of thinking that it is okay to continue to sin. God will not be mocked, "Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." (Galatians 6:6-10).

Today's Psalm: 97:10-12
"Ye that love the LORD, hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked. Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart. Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous; and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Jesus,
I will never fully comprehend the depth of Your sacrificial death where we see man at his worst and God at His best. In my place You took my guilt and shame as You became the guilt offering pouring out Your life unto death and taking on my iniquity.  You gave all so that I could be forgiven. Though my sins were as scarlet they were washed white as snow, cleansed by the saving blood of the sinless Lamb. You turned my hopeless condition into a life full of hope for this life and glorious anticipation for eternal life beyond the grave. Nothing in all of history will ever compare to the Divine Exchange where my sins were exchanged for Your pardon. I walk in newness of life and in the power of You. In Your Mighty Name, Jesus........Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed night/day and week.
God Bless You,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Sunday March 22, 2009 and we are beginning our studies on the book of Judges. Please read chapters 1 & 2 in your Bible, or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Judge s" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Judge s" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%201-2&version=9

Today's Message: Worldly Compromise
Christians are a small minority of the world who know the truth about Jesus, yet many choose to compromise with the world, continuing to live as they do for fear that they will not fit in.

The book of Judges is the seventh book in the Bible and of the Old Testament and contains twenty-one chapters. The author of the book was Samuel and it was written to the people of Israel. The purpose of the book was to record the rule of the judges which occurred after the death of Joshua. This book records the sad story of their repeated sins and the judges God raised up to deliver them from enemy forces. What we are to learn from the book is that there is a divine pattern of chastisement designed to turn God's people from sin to salvation.

The Israelites were chosen by the One and Only True God to reveal Him to the heathen nations and to glorify Him by being obedient to His Word. Many of the heathen nations despised God, created their own gods, drawing God's people to them instead. After the death of Joshua, we are first given a sense of high hopes for the total conquest of the land as he began. "Now after the death of Joshua it came to pass, that the children of Israel asked the LORD, saying, Who shall go up for us against the Canaanites first, to fight against them? And the LORD said, Judah shall go up: behold, I have delivered the land into his hand. And Judah said unto Simeon his brother, Come up with me into my lot, that we may fight against the Canaanites; and I likewise will go with thee into thy lot. So Simeon went with him. And Judah went up; and the LORD delivered the Canaanites and the Perizzites into their hand: and they slew of them in Bezek ten thousand men." (Judges 1:1-4).

One by one, the cities fell into the Israelites hands, giving them victory of the land, but that victory did not last for long and the Israelites began to live among the heathens instead of fighting for the rest of the land. 

God's command to complete the conquest of Canaan was not fulfilled because of the people's compromise with the pagan inhabitants of the land. " And an angel of the LORD came up from Gilgal to Bochim, and said, I made you to go up out of Egypt, and have brought you unto the land which I sware unto your fathers; and I said, I will never break my covenant with you. And ye shall make no league with the inhabitants of this land; ye shall throw down their altars: but ye have not obeyed my voice: why have ye done this? Wherefore I also said, I will not drive them out from before you; but they shall be as thorns in your sides, and their gods shall be a snare unto you. And it came to pass, when the angel of the LORD spake these words unto all the children of Israel, that the people lifted up their voice, and wept." (Judges 2:1-4).

The Israelites, who were living at the time of Joshua's death, still recognized that God was their King and that He had given them victory over the Canaanites, but a new era was emerging, one that rather compromise with the heathens instead of fighting for their beliefs. Sadly, the Israelites fell right into the hands of the heathens gods and their wicked ways. "And also all that generation were gathered unto their fathers: and there arose another generation after them, which knew not the LORD, nor yet the works which he had done for Israel. And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and served Baalim: And they forsook the LORD God of their fathers, which brought them out of the land of Egypt, and followed other gods, of the gods of the people that were round about them, and bowed themselves unto them, and provoked the LORD to anger. And they forsook the LORD, and served Baal and Ashtaroth. And the anger of the LORD was hot against Israel, and he delivered them into the hands of spoilers that spoiled them, and he sold them into the hands of their enemies round about, so that they could not any longer stand before their enemies." (2:10-14). The Israelites chose to do what they thought was more humanitarian or which created a peaceful coexistence with the enemies of God.

The truth is that once we accept Jesus into our lives we will change, whether we want to or not. The Holy Spirit has a way of guiding us along the path that God has created for us. " 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." (I Corinthians 2:12-14).

We can not worry about what others think of us nor fear being alone because we do not want to fight with anyone. Many of the friends and even family members that we love dearly become people we hardly know because they are actually compromising our relationship with God. It's not that we do not love nor care for them, it's that they cause harm to us. When this happens the best thing we can do is pray for them and try to be the example that they need to turn their life around. Do not compromise your relationship with God for anyone! You may be in a tough situation, but you can overcome it. Remember, faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. He will guide you out of any situation as long as you trust Him and let Him guide you.

Today's Psalm: 31:2-4
"Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, for an house of defence to save me. For thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name's sake lead me, and guide me. Pull me out of the net that they have laid privily for me: for thou art my strength."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
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 and blessed night/day and enjoy the rest of your weekend.
God Bless You,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Saturday March 21, 2009 and we are completing our studies on the book of Joshua. Please read chapters 20-24 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshu a" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshu a" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%2020-24&version=9

Today's Message: A Time of Rest
God blesses all with a period of rest after we face battles, but we must never take our eyes off Him during that time.

During the time that Joshua lead the Israelites into the promised land he experienced about seven years of wars, during which he won every battle. Then God allowed His faithful servant to have a period of rest. "And the LORD gave unto Israel all the land which he sware to give unto their fathers; and they possessed it, and dwelt therein. And the LORD gave them rest round about, according to all that he sware unto their fathers: and there stood not a man of all their enemies before them; the LORD delivered all their enemies into their hand. There failed not ought of any good thing which the LORD had spoken unto the house of Israel; all came to pass." (Joshua 21:43-45). Joshua did not merely trust that God would force the Canaanites to voluntarily give up their land. He went to battle with His faith in God, trusting that He would lead them to victory.

The Israelites greatest danger was yet to be faced, they were about to go on their own without the guidance of Joshua. "And Joshua called for all Israel, and for their elders, and for their heads, and for their judges, and for their officers, and said unto them, I am old and stricken in age: And ye have seen all that the LORD your God hath done unto all these nations because of you; for the LORD your God is he that hath fought for you. Behold, I have divided unto you by lot these nations that remain, to be an inheritance for your tribes, from Jordan, with all the nations that I have cut off, even unto the great sea westward. And the LORD your God, he shall expel them from before you, and drive them from out of your sight; and ye shall possess their land, as the LORD your God hath promised unto you. Be ye therefore very courageous to keep and to do all that is written in the book of the law of Moses, that ye turn not aside therefrom to the right hand or to the left; That ye come not among these nations, these that remain among you; neither make mention of the name of their gods, nor cause to swear by them, neither serve them, nor bow yourselves unto them: But cleave unto the LORD your God, as ye have done unto this day." (Joshua 23:2-8). Joshua told them to never take their eyes off God, no matter how good things looked. They must constantly be aware of things and not give into the temptations of the world around them.

The scariest thing about winning the victory is that we are faced with even more danger. Yes, God does give the victory to all who put their trust and faith in Him, but the devil is not far behind trying to steal God's glory. That is why it is so important to hold on to God no matter what, even when things look as if they are going great. The second we take our eyes off Him we will be vulnerable to Satan.

Joshua continued to warn them, "Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD...............If ye forsake the LORD, and serve strange gods, then he will turn and do you hurt, and consume you, after that he hath done you good. And the people said unto Joshua, Nay; but we will serve the LORD. And Joshua said unto the people, Ye are witnesses against yourselves that ye have chosen you the LORD, to serve him. And they said, We are witnesses. Now therefore put away, said he, the strange gods which are among you, and incline your heart unto the LORD God of Israel." (24:14-15,20-23). We can not let the temptations of the world draw us back into the sinful lives that we knew before we were saved. Although the world does not understand it, only separation from these things brings spiritual peace and a great relationship with God.

Today, peace with God comes through Jesus, who gives us the hope and faith we need to get through all our battles. "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: 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." (Romans 5:1-5).

Today's Psalm: 55:17-18
"Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice. He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Today we are especially mindful of Your faithfulness in the created order of the universe.  Your great faithfulness, mercy and love is also evident in the sacrificial death of Your Son, Jesus, who became a substitute for our sins. Your provision for our every need gives us strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, no matter what challenge we face or difficulty that might arise on this day. In Jesus' name.........Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed night/day and enjoy your weekend.
God Bless,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Friday March 20, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Joshua. Please read chapters 17-19 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online.

Today's Message: Faith Without Works
It's great to have faith in God, but it is not enough to just say you have faith in Him, you must be willing to work to receive His blessings.

The conquest of Canaan was completed and the land was divided, not by majority vote, but by the Lord's decree. Although they had received some of the best territory in the promised land, the tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim complained that they should have more territory given to them because of their great numbers and what they perceived as their prominent position among the tribes. "And the children of Joseph spake unto Joshua, saying, Why hast thou given me but one lot and one portion to inherit, seeing I am a great people, forasmuch as the LORD hath blessed me hitherto? And Joshua answered them, If thou be a great people, then get thee up to the wood country, and cut down for thyself there in the land of the Perizzites and of the giants, if mount Ephraim be too narrow for thee. And the children of Joseph said, The hill is not enough for us: and all the Canaanites that dwell in the land of the valley have chariots of iron, both they who are of Bethshean and her towns, and they who are of the valley of Jezreel. And Joshua spake unto the house of Joseph, even to Ephraim and to Manasseh, saying, Thou art a great people, and hast great power: thou shalt not have one lot only: But the mountain shall be thine; for it is a wood, and thou shalt cut it down: and the outgoings of it shall be thine: for thou shalt drive out the Canaanites, though they have iron chariots, and though they be strong." (Joshua 18:14-18). Sadly, these two tribes chose the easy way of compromise and let the Canaanites reside within their borders rather than fight for their God-given territory.

Often, the blessings of God depend upon our faith in Him, if we are not willing to put a little effort into making things happen what good would it do. "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way? For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also." (James 2:19-26). It is not enough to have faith in God, we must keep working with that faith knowing that God will lead us to victory.

Many people are just plain lazy, they want so many things in life and often wonder why they do not have them. Yet, they never make one effort in obtaining them, constantly seeking someone to help them. We may be Christians, but we are not doormats and although we try to help those in need whether they are saved or not it is sometimes wise to refuse to help those who express no concern for the will of God nor make any effort to help themselves. When we have our priorities centered upon the Lord, we need not fear losing our share of anything. Now, do not mistake "Works by Faith" with "Works of Salvation". No one can work for their salvation, only Jesus is our salvation. "Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified." (Galatians 2:16).

Think of Jesus as food, food is essential in providing us with the nutrients we need to stay alive, but if we just look at it and not eat it then we will die. Jesus is essential in providing us with the nutrients we need to stay alive spiritually, but if we just think about Him and not accept Him than we will die spiritually. Making that effort to get to know Him increases our faith even more giving us the encouragement to do more, which in turn blesses us far beyond what we ever imagine.

Today's Psalm: 136:23-26
"Who remembered us in our low estate: for his mercy endureth for ever: And hath redeemed us from our enemies: for his mercy endureth for ever. Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth for ever. O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Jesus,
In the maze of life's events where we're often a passenger on the rollercoaster of life's ups and downs, may we never lose sight of You.  You are the unseen but ever-present Shepherd who protects, guides and tenderly comforts us in all our trouble. Thank You, Lord, that when change is constantly about us, You remain steadfast, faithful, and dependable.  You are the Anchor that keeps us grounded in the unseen, but eternal truths we build our lives upon. Keep us faithful and help us to always believe in You. In Your Mighty name, Jesus............Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed night/day and weekend. TGIF!
God Bless you,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

It is Thursday March 19, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Joshua, please read chapters 14-16 in your Bible. You can also Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshu a" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshu a" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%2014-16&version=9

Today's Message: Unshakable Faith

The Anakims had been driven out of Hebron by Joshua, now they were back and in control of the territory. Because of Caleb's faithfulness, God granted his request for the city and suburbs of Hebron, determined to drive them back out of the land. "Forty years old was I when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadeshbarnea to espy out the land; and I brought him word again as it was in mine heart. Nevertheless my brethren that went up with me made the heart of the people melt: but I wholly followed the LORD my God. And Moses sware on that day, saying, Surely the land whereon thy feet have trodden shall be thine inheritance, and thy children's for ever, because thou hast wholly followed the LORD my God. And now, behold, the LORD hath kept me alive, as he said, these forty and five years, even since the LORD spake this word unto Moses, while the children of Israel wandered in the wilderness: and now, lo, I am this day fourscore and five years old............ Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims were there, and that the cities were great and fenced: if so be the LORD will be with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said. And Joshua blessed him, and gave unto Caleb the son of Jephunneh Hebron for an inheritance.Hebron therefore became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite unto this day, because that he wholly followed the LORD God of Israel." (Joshua 14:7-10,12-14). Although he had to wait 45 years before he could inherit his promised land, there was no record that he found fault with God.

Caleb's unshakable faith can be seen in his report as a spy forty-five years ago when he chose to follow God and not listen to the murmuring Israelites. He spoke his convictions and faced opposition of the other spies and the people. He stood alone with Joshua, but never gave up his faith in God. Most of us will face giant Canaanite difficulties in life as well as friends who attempt to discourage us. Surely our faith ought to exceed Caleb's as we have the Lord Jesus Christ right with us. "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:35-39).

Sometimes we are afraid to speak about our faith when our convictions are unpopular, but the person blessed of God speaks what is in his heart about Him and does not listen to the opposition they are faced with. God always honors the faith of those who believe in Him and His all-sufficient power.

Today's Psalm: 71:7-9
"I am as a wonder unto many; but thou art my strong refuge. Let my mouth be filled with thy praise and with thy honour all the day. Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Help me to remain faithful to You and your calling upon my life. Strengthen and grow my faith as I daily search Your Scriptures and apply their truths to my spiritual walk.  As I go through the trials and experiences of my earthly journey would You fix my eyes and my ever-wandering heart upon Jesus. When the howling winds and forceful storms of this life attempt to shipwreck my faith may they instead prove my faith to be more than sufficient to withstand the continual assaults from the enemy. Because I take refuge in Jesus my spiritual foundation is firm, always dependable, and leads me to glorious victory. In Jesus' name........Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed night/day and enjoy the rest of your week, it's almost the weekend.
God Bless You,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Wednesday March 18, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Joshua. Please read chapters 11-13 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshu a" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshu a" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%2011-13&version=9

Today's Message: Make An Effort
God promises to give us everything that we need, but we must willing to make an effort to get them.

Although God had promised to give the Israelites the land, they had to fight for every inch of it. The news of Joshua's invasion quickly spread throughout Canaan. The Canaanite kings also had known what the Gibeonites knew, but they decided to defend their heathen gods against the one and only true God. Jabin, King of Hazor in the north, enlisted other kings and their soldiers as far north into the mountains and as far south into Jerusalem to defeat them. "And they went out, they and all their hosts with them, much people, even as the sand that is upon the sea shore in multitude, with horses and chariots very many. And when all these kings were met together, they came and pitched together at the waters of Merom, to fight against Israel. And the LORD said unto Joshua, Be not afraid because of them: for to morrow about this time will I deliver them up all slain before Israel: thou shalt hough their horses, and burn their chariots with fire. So Joshua came, and all the people of war with him, against them by the waters of Merom suddenly; and they fell upon them. And the LORD delivered them into the hand of Israel, who smote them, and chased them unto great Zidon, and unto Misrephothmaim, and unto the valley of Mizpeh eastward; and they smote them, until they left them none remaining." (Joshua 11:4-8). Thirty-one kings were defeated and Joshua established military control over all of the promised land.

Joshua may have received the victory over the kings, but people within each tribal territory still had to be subdued as God commanded. "Now Joshua was old and stricken in years; and the LORD said unto him, Thou art old and stricken in years, and there remaineth yet very much land to be possessed.........All the inhabitants of the hill country from Lebanon unto Misrephothmaim, and all the Sidonians, them will I drive out from before the children of Israel: only divide thou it by lot unto the Israelites for an inheritance, as I have commanded thee." (13:1,6). God divided the territory that would best meet their physical and spiritual needs. And although the land had been given to them, they still had to exercise their faith and trust the guidance from God in order to possess it. If they had just been given the land and not had to fight for it they would have lost sight of God and never would have realized just how blessed they were.

God makes it possible for us to fulfill His will, but our effort is also required. We can not have everything handed to us, if that happened we would be spoiled brats that never appreciate anything. It is a known fact that even if we did not know God we would forget how grateful we were when we got them. That is why God does not give us everything we ask for right when we want it. He knows that if He gives us everything right away we lose sight of Him, we would be ungrateful and hardly realize that He even exists. "But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee. And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise." (Hebrews 6:9-15). There is no better satisfaction than to know that a battle is won with determination and the effort that it took, knowing that God was with us and made everything possible.

Today's Psalm:128:1-2
"Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
We know that none of us are 100% humble, for we are clothed in these mortal, fallible bodies, but we do know that You are completely humble and we are to look to You as our example. As we clothe ourselves in Your righteousness we can overcome the pride that is ever before us. We recognize that no good thing can come from us, but all things come from You that work together for Your glory. Remind us daily that gratitude is the antidote for feelings of pride. When we acknowledge that everything we have and all that we are is due to Your merciful blessings we are humbled and grateful to You, the Giver of all things. In Jesus name........Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day/night and enjoy the rest of your week.
God Bless,
Christina

P.S. I apologize for not getting this message out yesterday, I had server issues as well as my own. God Bless You and thank you for your patience and understanding.

Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Monday March 16, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Joshua. Please read chapters 9 & 10 in your Bible, you can also Click Here to read the chapters online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshu a" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshu a" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%209-10&version=9

Today's Message: Deception
Christians are often deceived by the wicked, falling into sin because of human reasoning instead of seeking God for direction. .

After Joshua's victories over Jericho and Ai, five Canaanite kings united to fight the Israelites. "And it came to pass, when all the kings which were on this side Jordan, in the hills, and in the valleys, and in all the coasts of the great sea over against Lebanon, the Hittite, and the Amorite, the Canaanite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite, heard thereof; That they gathered themselves together, to fight with Joshua and with Israel, with one accord." (Joshua 9:1-2). Whenever one wins victory over a battle you be sure that there will be lots of opposition shortly after.

Fearing the worse, the Gibeonites, who were located between Canaan and the encampment of Israel, decided that their chances of survival would be greater by making an alliance with the Israelites. "And when the inhabitants of Gibeon heard what Joshua had done unto Jericho and to Ai, They did work wilily, and went and made as if they had been ambassadors, and took old sacks upon their asses, and wine bottles, old, and rent, and bound up; And old shoes and clouted upon their feet, and old garments upon them; and all the bread of their provision was dry and mouldy. And they went to Joshua unto the camp at Gilgal, and said unto him, and to the men of Israel, We be come from a far country: now therefore make ye a league with us." (9:3-6). The moldy bread and worn clothing seemed to be visible proof that these strangers were telling the truth, but Joshua was deceived. These men were enemies and to make peace with the enemies of God was a violation of the Law.

Once again, Joshua failed to seek God for guidance in dealing with the Gibeonites. If Joshua had prayed for the Lord's guidance, the league never would have been made, saving them from lots of pain in the future. Too often we foolishly make decisions based on what we see or think. This league with the Gibeonites should be lesson to us about enemy's skill in deception. We should also learn how deceptive our human reasoning can be. It's so easy to fall in the trap of the wicked simply by thinking with our own mind and especially heart. "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Because the league had been sworn in God's Name, the Israelites did not break their oath to Gibeon, even though the Gibeonites had deceived them. However, over 400 years later, King Saul broke this covenant and it resulted in a 3 year famine in Israel.
Through this, the Lord teaches us that the wrong done by another does not give us the right to do a similar wrong in return. God wants us to learn from the Gibeonites' covenant how important it is to have personal integrity and keep our commitments. One sin never justifies another.

One characteristic of the children of God that distinguishes us from all other people is that we are to overcome evil for good. "Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good." (Romans 12:19-21).

Today's Psalm: 12:1-3
"Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men. They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak. The LORD shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things:"

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Lord, you know the longings of my heart. When I seek thrills and quick fixes to satisfy these needs I am eventually disappointed. Your supply of Living Water never runs dry and satisfies the inner desires of my heart because You are the only One who can meet my spiritual needs. Lord, as I come today dry and thirsty I look to You, for You satisfy the thirsty and fill the hungry with good things. In Jesus' name........Amen.

Have a wonderful night/day and enjoy your week.
God Bless,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Sunday March 15, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book Joshua. Please read chapters 7 & 8 in your Bible. You can also Click Here to read the chapters online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this one into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshu a" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshu a" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%207-8&version=9

Today's Message: Just Keep Praying
The people of God are never in greater danger of assuming they no longer need to pray for guidance than when the Lord has just answered prayer or greatly blessed them.

After the Israelites had victory over Jericho their independence grew and without seeking direction from God, they attacked the city of Ai. "And Joshua sent men from Jericho to Ai, which is beside Bethaven, on the east of Bethel, and spake unto them, saying, Go up and view the country. And the men went up and viewed Ai. And they returned to Joshua, and said unto him, Let not all the people go up; but let about two or three thousand men go up and smite Ai; and make not all the people to labour thither; for they are but few. So there went up thither of the people about three thousand men: and they fled before the men of Ai. And the men of Ai smote of them about thirty and six men: for they chased them from before the gate even unto Shebarim, and smote them in the going down: wherefore the hearts of the people melted, and became as water." (Joshua 7:2-5). By not consulting the Lord this time, Israel's defeat was inevitable and sadly they were defeated and humiliated by such a small town. 

After their defeat, Joshua sought God for guidance on how they might win and God  instructed him. "And the LORD said unto Joshua, Fear not, neither be thou dismayed: take all the people of war with thee, and arise, go up to Ai: see, I have given into thy hand the king of Ai, and his people, and his city, and his land: And thou shalt do to Ai and her king as thou didst unto Jericho and her king: only the spoil thereof, and the cattle thereof, shall ye take for a prey unto yourselves: lay thee an ambush for the city behind it. So Joshua arose, and all the people of war, to go up against Ai: and Joshua chose out thirty thousand mighty men of valour, and sent them away by night........And so it was, that all that fell that day, both of men and women, were twelve thousand, even all the men of Ai." (8:1-3,25).

Joshua had momentarily failed to consider that the Lord Himself was their Commander in Chief, that He alone could issue orders that would result in success. The Israelites' reasoning that led to their defeat at Ai has been repeated by most of us. When no serious problems seem to exist, we become overconfident, seemingly self-sufficient, and assume the Lord expects us to use "our own good judgment." However, apart from our submission to the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit, the smallest temptation will prove to be too powerful for us. He alone imparts discernment and guidance as we read and desire to obey the Word of God. We don't win our victories just because we are Christians any more than Joshua won the battle at Ai because he was an Israelite. "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12).

Today's Psalm: 25:8-10
"Good and upright is the LORD: therefore will he teach sinners in the way. The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank you for your plan for our lives. You are the one, sovereign God, and you are all powerful in every aspect of our lives. We want to turn it all over to you, but there are parts of us, that we are so reluctant to release. We might not even know what it is that we are holding on to, but we can feel that part of our flesh is ruling us more than it should. Watch over us, guide us and be with us in all that we do. Holy Spirit, sweep through us. Help us to see what it is that we're unable to let go of, and then minister to our hearts so that we can trust you in that area. Speak to us through your word today. Show us something new about yourself or our relationship with you. In Jesus name........Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed night/day and hope you are enjoying the Lord's Day.
God Bless,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Saturday March 14, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Joshua. Please read chapters 4-6 in your Bible, or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshu a" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Joshu a" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%204-6&version=9

Today's Message: Blessed By Obedience
It is amazing to see the blessings of God when we give our all to Him.

God promised the Israelites that He would give them land to posses, but, the promises of God always include personal responsibilities for the receivers of those promises."And it came to pass, when all the people were clean passed over Jordan, that the LORD spake unto Joshua, saying, Take you twelve men out of the people, out of every tribe a man, And command ye them, saying, Take you hence out of the midst of Jordan, out of the place where the priests' feet stood firm, twelve stones, and ye shall carry them over with you, and leave them in the lodging place, where ye shall lodge this night......... And he spake unto the children of Israel, saying, When your children shall ask their fathers in time to come, saying, What mean these stones?Then ye shall let your children know, saying, Israel came over this Jordan on dry land. For the LORD your God dried up the waters of Jordan from before you, until ye were passed over, as the LORD your God did to the Red sea, which he dried up from before us, until we were gone over: That all the people of the earth might know the hand of the LORD, that it is mighty: that ye might fear the LORD your God for ever." (Joshua 4:1-3,21-24). Whenever you see the phrase, "Fear the Lord", it does not mean that you are to be afraid of God, it means to be in awe of Him.

Before going further into the land God commanded Joshua to circumcise all the males. "And this is the cause why Joshua did circumcise: All the people that came out of Egypt, that were males, even all the men of war, died in the wilderness by the way, after they came out of Egypt. Now all the people that came out were circumcised: but all the people that were born in the wilderness by the way as they came forth out of Egypt, them they had not circumcised. For the children of Israel walked forty years in the wilderness, till all the people that were men of war, which came out of Egypt, were consumed, because they obeyed not the voice of the LORD: unto whom the LORD sware that he would not shew them the land, which the LORD sware unto their fathers that he would give us, a land that floweth with milk and honey. And their children, whom he raised up in their stead, them Joshua circumcised: for they were uncircumcised, because they had not circumcised them by the way. And it came to pass, when they had done circumcising all the people, that they abode in their places in the camp, till they were whole." (5:4-8). The rite of circumcision had been instituted by the Lord with Abraham, the father of the faithful, as a visible sign of the people's Covenant relationship with Him.

After being circumcised, the new generation became identified as the Lord's Covenant people and they were qualified to keep the Passover, circumcision was required before anyone could eat the Passover. The Passover represented the Lord's deliverance of His people from Egypt and pointed the way to Jesus, the promised Passover Lamb. Circumcision and the Passover foreshadowed the commands of believer's baptism and the Lord's Supper for the Church. At His last Passover, Jesus revealed that His death would fulfill and replace the Passover. "And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins." (Matthew 26:26-28). The Lord's Supper is a great way to remember that we are forgiven of our sins by the blood of Jesus.

God's commands may seem a bit strange to us at times, but by doing them we are proving our faith to Him as well as providing testimony to others as they see the blessings that He gives us for obeying Him. 

Today's Psalm: 19:8-9
"The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
We thank You for Your marvelous grace that was poured out in the sacrificial death of Your Son and is made available to all for salvation from sin. You want all men and women, boys and girls to be saved and come to knowledge of the truth. We're grateful for those You raise up to be arms of compassion and instruments of blessing to others in the body of Christ and to those still clinging to the world. Whether we were protected from the ravages of sin or we are experiencing Your restoring grace we thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has given us strength; that He considered us faithful, appointing us to be His servants. Help us to stay obedient to Your Word and give us the wisdom and understanding we need to know Your commands. In Jesus' name.........Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed night/day and enjoy your weekend.
God bless,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Friday March 13, 2009 and we are beginning our studies on the book of Joshua. Please read chapters 1-3 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this one into your browser:http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%201-3&version=9

Today's Message: Success With God
Success by the world's standard is vastly different from God's. The world says, "Success comes from gaining all you can", but God says success comes from gaining God's Word.

The book of Joshua is the sixth book of the Old testament and contains twenty-four chapters, it is also the beginning of the books of history. The author of the book is Joshua and it was written to the people of Israel. The purpose of the book was to record the history of their conquest of Canaan. It details how Moses' successor, Joshua, led the people of Israel into the Promised Land and also records the military campaigns and the division of the land among the people. What we are to learn from the book is that no moral or spiritual victories are won without battles.

After the Israelites mourned the loss of Moses, it was now time for his successor, Joshua, to lead the people into the promised land. "Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast. There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee." (Joshua 1:1-5).

Israel's first encounter with the Canaanites in the promised land was at the powerful walled city of Jericho. " And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot's house, named Rahab, and lodged there. And it was told the king of Jericho, saying, Behold, there came men in hither to night of the children of Israel to search out the country. And the king of Jericho sent unto Rahab, saying, Bring forth the men that are come to thee, which are entered into thine house: for they be come to search out all the country. And the woman took the two men, and hid them, and said thus, There came men unto me, but I wist not whence they were: And it came to pass about the time of shutting of the gate, when it was dark, that the men went out: whither the men went I wot not: pursue after them quickly; for ye shall overtake them.But she had brought them up to the roof of the house, and hid them with the stalks of flax, which she had laid in order upon the roof." (2:1-6). Rahab quickly turned from her false gods, left her life as a prostitute, and trusted in the mercy of the One True God.

It was no accident that the spies came to her home to bring God's protection upon her and her family. God plans everything and knows exactly what we are going to do. Even if we think we are not following His plan we are, He knows what going on, He grows us and prepares us for the time that we will be used of Him. No matter what kind of past we had, God eventually gets His children to come to Him when He knows we are ready to accept Him.

Joshua's battles were physical while ours are primarily spiritual. Yet, the same principle of success holds true. Our battle is not with men, though Satan may use people at times to discourage our efforts to please the Lord, but it is with our own flesh and blood. If we are not shielded by God's Word we will continuously fall into sin. "Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand." (Ephesians 6:11-13).

Today's Prayer: 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 God,
We recognize the spiritual, emotional, and physical strength that comes from relying on truths and principles established in Your Word. And yet we still get lax or led astray from the paths You’ve laid out for us. Lord, fill us with the power of Your Holy Spirit to keep our hearts right and our will submitted to You. In Jesus' name..........Amen.

Have a wonderful night/day and weekend.
God Bless,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Thursday March 12, 2009 and we are completing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read chapters 32-34 in your Bible, or you can click here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%2032-34&version=9

Today's Message: Preparing The Way
We need to never worry nor fear; God knows how to prepare us for the tests and trials that come each day.

The Song of Moses, led the Israelites to proclaim the greatness of God, but it also warns against provoking Him. "Give ear, O ye heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth. My doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass: Because I will publish the name of the LORD: ascribe ye greatness unto our God. He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he. They have corrupted themselves, their spot is not the spot of his children: they are a perverse and crooked generation." (Deuteronomy 32:1-5). To illustrate an important truth, God has chosen the insignificant, but very important dew.

The purpose of dew is to maintain life during dry seasons. Only living things benefit from the dew. It does nothing for stones nor dead leaves, but is spontaneously absorbed by wilted plants, restoring them to life. It does not come in as showers, but descends gently and softly during the dark of night when we are not aware that it is falling. When morning comes, everything is refreshed and prepared for the heat of the day. This illustrates how God's Word gently and unnoticeably renews us, refreshens us, and brings life back to a dry soul.

Moses foretold of the blessings and happiness that would be theirs if they lived in obedience to the Word of God. "The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee; and shall say, Destroy them. Israel then shall dwell in safety alone: the fountain of Jacob shall be upon a land of corn and wine; also his heavens shall drop down dew. Happy art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved by the LORD, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places." (33:27-29). After conferring spiritual blessings upon the tribes, Moses concluded with praise to God.

It has been written that there has not been another prophet as great as Moses. "And there arose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face, In all the signs and the wonders, which the LORD sent him to do in the land of Egypt to Pharaoh, and to all his servants, and to all his land, And in all that mighty hand, and in all the great terror which Moses shewed in the sight of all Israel." (34:10-12). Although it has been written that no other prophet knew God face to face
he forfeited the privilege of leading Israel into Canaan because of his sin (See Numbers 20:1-13).

Moses' life had been almost perfect. However, even though he had been the Lord's lawgiver, he had also broken the Law once, and the Law did not permit exceptions. Moses is last seen alone, climbing one of the most prominent mountain peaks in Moab from which he was allowed to view the promised land, though he could not enter it. Moses' penalty illustrates that even forgiveness of sin does not remove its earthly consequences. Centuries later, Moses, symbolizing God's Law, stood on Mount Hermon in the promised land along with Elijah, who symbolized the prophets of God. Together they talked with Jesus as He transformed before three of His disciples. "And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him." (Matthew 17:1-3).

Moses became an example for all of Israel as well as us today that God is holy and cannot allow His Law to be broken without consequences, no matter how much one is used of God. Do not mistake Salvation for disobedience, yes we are saved from an eternal fire (those who accept Christ), but that does not mean we will not suffer the consequences for our sins. Follow God, trust Him and let Him prepare the way for you.

Today's Psalm: 103:18-19
"To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them. The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Though others may overlook my significance You are familiar with all my ways.  You know the very thoughts that run through my mind and the words that I will speak even before I utter them.  You know me from inside out and yet You love me and call me Your very own. That You would love a sinner such as me and redeem me from the pit is too marvelous for words. I humbly and gratefully acknowledge Your goodness and give thanks for Your unfailing love that lifts me from the dark pit of despair and transfers me into Your bright kingdom of light. In Jesus' name............Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed night/day.
God Bless You,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Wednesday March 11, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read chapter 28 in your Bible or you can Click Here to read it online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=5&am p" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?book_id=5&am p" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...;chapter=28&version=9

Today' Message: Submitting To God

Moses' final appeal to the Israelite nation was to get them to understand that their security in Canaan depended upon them being submissive to God. He related the the blessings that they people would receive by doing so. " And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God. Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field.Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep. Blessed shall be thy basket and thy store. Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out." (Deuteronomy 28:1-6). The Israelites could choose either to live as His Word directed and enjoy the Lord's blessings or to reject His Word, as their parents had done, and suffer the consequences.

Then he solemnly warned them of what those consequences will be if they chose to live a life of sin. "The LORD shall send upon thee cursing, vexation, and rebuke, in all that thou settest thine hand unto for to do, until thou be destroyed, and until thou perish quickly; because of the wickedness of thy doings, whereby thou hast forsaken me." (28:20). There are almost four times as many verses that warn of the curses resulting from disobedience than of the blessings resulting from obedience. The obvious conclusion to be drawn from God's Word is that each sin has a consequence and it definitely does not effect only the person, but those around them.

Many people fear submitting to God because they see these verses about curses and death and think that He is cruel saying, how can God love us with when He causes so much pain? The truth is that God does not cause the pain, we do. The suffering and pain that we endure often comes from our own doing, the guilt alone causes much of the suffering all on it's own.

We are so blessed today because we no longer have to fear being stoned for doing things that we know are morally wrong. The powerful blood of Jesus saves us form all our sins, in fact we were saved from them even before we knew that we were going to commit them. And all we have to do to be forgiven is confess our sins, then they are wiped away, never to been seen again. Of course that does not mean that we will not endure the consequences for them.

I will point out that this fact can be misapplied, often we are faced with affliction that has nothing to do with sin. Jesus explained that sometimes we are just faced with affliction in order to bring us closer to Him. "And as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth. And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind? Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him." (John 9:1-3). What seemed to be a curse became a blessing, for it brought this man to his Savior.

So, how do you know if you are being chastised or tested? You know by submitting to God. No matter what, all things work together for good, one may be faced with affliction, but through it all God will increase their blessings as they grow closer to Him. "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28).

Today's Psalm: 66:2-4
"Sing forth the honour of his name: make his praise glorious. Say unto God, How terrible art thou in thy works! through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee. All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto thee; they shall sing to thy name. Selah."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Thank You for enlisting us as Your servants in the kingdom of God here on earth.    You do not require a royal title or a seminary degree as a prerequisite in advancing Your kingdom. You look for willing hearts whose love and commitment to Christ spill over into their words and actions in every setting in which they’re found.  May we be eager to diligently study Your Word so that we can effectively serve You in reaching others through the opportunities provided us. Thank You for the many who are faithful examples of lives that are fully yielded to Your purpose as they glorify You while influencing others for the Kingdom. In Jesus' name...........Amen.

Have a wonderful day/night.
God bless,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Monday March 9, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy, please read chapters 24-27 in your Bible. You can also Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%2024-27&version=9

Today's Message: Our Own Enemy

Moses, the lawgiver and prophet, placed great emphasis on the necessity of honesty and truthfulness in all areas of life. When presenting the Law, he warned against two sets of weights and measures, one for buying and the other for selling. "Thou shalt not have in thine house divers measures, a great and a small. But thou shalt have a perfect and just weight, a perfect and just measure shalt thou have: that thy days may be lengthened in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee." (Deuteronomy 25:14-15). The phrase divers measures means that they were not to have more of one than the other.
God hates lying and thievery. Each of us has the opportunity to exercise the principles of justice and equity or to take advantage of others. There are various forms of dishonesty such as wasting time on the job, taking what doesn't belong to us, unethically conducting business, lying, and committing fraud. Our conduct with others goes much deeper than either word or deed; it goes to the hidden motives of our hearts and reveals what we truly are.

Jesus said that the things that are in our heart bring evil, "And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile the man." (Mark 7:20-23). What this means is that our heart deceives us, it causes us to do evil things because of our fleshly emotions. It is important that we are guided by the spirit and not the heart, only then can we know right from wrong. The thoughts of a Christian should always be the expression of what Jesus would do.

The attitude of fairness and consideration for others well-being applies to a Christian's daily relationship with God and others. It is possible to have bitter thoughts while doing kind deeds and to say loving words while having wrong attitudes and motives. But, our self-serving conduct can be overcome by the Christ-centered nature that He has bestowed within us. The self-centered "I" must give way to Christ and His control if we are to have the right relationships.

Today's Psalm: 101:2-4
"I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
We need the prompting of Your Holy Spirit to keep us in check regarding our conduct toward others. May we not dismiss our improper behavior by blaming it on our upbringing or make up other excuses. Instead we take responsibility for our behavior as we want to glorify you and be a blessing to others. Would You help us to love people as we want to be loved. Help us to give the benefit of the doubt as we want others to give us. Help us to be quick to forgive and slow to anger. May we treat others in the same way that we ourselves want to be treated. In Jesus' name.........Amen.

Have wonderful and blessed night/day.
God Bless,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Sunday March 8, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy, please read chapters 21-23 in your Bible. You can also Click Here to read them online, if the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%2021-23&version=9

Today's Message: Be A Good Neighbor

The Israelites had been taught that, because God had created all things, everything belonged to Him and they were only caretakers of His possessions. Because of their Covenant relationship with the Lord, they even were responsible for the welfare of their neighbor's property. "Thou shalt not see thy brother's ox or his sheep go astray, and hide thyself from them: thou shalt in any case bring them again unto thy brother. And if thy brother be not nigh unto thee, or if thou know him not, then thou shalt bring it unto thine own house, and it shall be with thee until thy brother seek after it, and thou shalt restore it to him again. In like manner shalt thou do with his ass; and so shalt thou do with his raiment; and with all lost thing of thy brother's, which he hath lost, and thou hast found, shalt thou do likewise: thou mayest not hide thyself. Thou shalt not see thy brother's ass or his ox fall down by the way, and hide thyself from them: thou shalt surely help him to lift them up again." (Deuteronomy 22:1-4). Under the laws of most countries, we would not be held legally responsible for failing to prevent someones financial loss. However, our stewardship responsibility to God requires that we respond to others needs in a spirit of Christ-like love.

Even when an Israelite built a house, he was required to put a railing around the flat roof to protect anyone from accidentally falling off the roof, which was often used as a patio. This was not an option, but was required. "When thou buildest a new house, then thou shalt make a battlement for thy roof, that thou bring not blood upon thine house, if any man fall from thence." (22:8). This railing, called a battlement, is symbolic of our responsibility to be our brother's keeper. If the Lord is that concerned in the building of a mere house to ensure the physical well-being of its neighbors, surely Christians should be concerned about making certain that their opportunities to help others are not overlooked.

In Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, He taught His followers to go far beyond merely helping preserve the property of a friend or neighbor. "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust." (Matthew 5:44-45). As Jesus' disciples we must do the same. We can not have a cold heart towards others regardless of how we are treated. It may not be easy to help those who love to cause problems for others, but we are unaware of what they are actually going through. Instead of returning hatred toward them, try praying for them, often it is the best that we can do for them.

Jesus illustrated this by speaking a parable, "But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour? And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him." (Luke 10:29-34). Perhaps they had completed their religious responsibilities in Jerusalem and were on their way home to Jericho, where many of the Levite's and priests lived. To stop and help this man could have defiled them and made them ceremonially unclean or, perhaps, they felt he was undeserving to be taken care of. However, the Samaritan man wasn't looking for excuses to avoid giving aid or questioning whether the hurting man was deserving of help. Instead, this outcast, who was much despised by the religious Jews, demonstrated Christlike love and had compassion on the man.

Now, I understand that there are just some people out there that we just need to stay away from, we are just not urged to dwell with them. However, our responsibility is not to the person who needs our help, but to our Lord, who is the true Owner of all creation, and who provides us with the opportunities to express His love to the lost and unloved. The person we help may or may not appreciate or even deserve the kindness we express, but by expressing that love we are not only providing an opportunity for them to get saved we are being blessed as well. Think of the blessings that you have received simply by facing one of the most difficult people you have ever met.

Today's Psalm: 146:5-9
"Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God: Which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is: which keepeth truth for ever: Which executeth judgment for the oppressed: which giveth food to the hungry. The LORD looseth the prisoners: The LORD openeth the eyes of the blind: the LORD raiseth them that are bowed down: the LORD loveth the righteous: The LORD preserveth the strangers; he relieveth the fatherless and widow: but the way of the wicked he turneth upside down."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Jesus, We know that none of us are 100% humble, for we are clothed in these mortal, fallible bodies. But we do know that You are completely humble and we look to You as our example. As we clothe ourselves in Your righteousness we can overcome the pride that is ever before us. We recognize that no good thing can come from us, but all that is good comes from You. Remind us daily that gratitude is the antidote for feelings of pride. When we acknowledge that everything we have and all that we are is due to Your merciful blessings we are humbled and grateful to You, the Giver of every good and perfect gift. In Jesus' name.................Amen.

Have a wonderful night/day and enjoy your week.

God Bless You,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Saturday March 7, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read chapters 17-20 in your Bible, you can also Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy & paste this one into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%2017-20&version=9

Today's Message: Spiritual Weapons

Even kings are not above the laws of God as revealed in His Word. Every Israelite king was commanded to read the Law of God every day. "Thou shalt in any wise set him king over thee, whom the LORD thy God shall choose: one from among thy brethren shalt thou set king over thee: thou mayest not set a stranger over thee, which is not thy brother......... And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites: And it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the LORD his God, to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them:" (Deuteronomy 17:15,18-19).

The Canaanites were idolaters who worshiped false gods, they became involved in many sins that God hates. God warned the Israelites to stay away from those people. "When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations. There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that useth divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch. Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination unto the LORD: and because of these abominations the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee. Thou shalt be perfect with the LORD thy God." (18:9-13).

Christians are in a spiritual battle against a far greater enemy than the Canaanites. Satan, the enemy of our souls, seeks to defeat, defile, and destroy every true worshiper of the One True God. We need to constantly be on guard and seek Jesus through all of our afflictions. "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you." (I Peter 5:8-10).

We have a powerful weapon to shield us from Satan, the Word of God. "Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;" (Ephesians 6:14-18).

It is very important that we get acquainted with our weapon and the only way to do that is to read it regularly. God has designed the Bible in a way that each time we read even a verse we get a new and different meaning of what God wants us to understand. He knows that if we try to take it in too much that we would never comprehend it, that is why He teaches us a little at a time instead of all at once. Now, put on your armor and watch how it protects you.

Today's Psalm: 119:88-89
"Quicken me after thy lovingkindness; so shall I keep the testimony of thy mouth. For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
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 reference. In Jesus name..................Amen.

Have a wonderful night/day and enjoy the rest of your weekend. Do not forget to set your clocks 1 hour forward tonight.

God bless you,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Friday March 6, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read chapters 14-16 in your Bible. You can also Click Here to read the chapters. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deute ronomy" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deute ronomy" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%2014-16&version=9

Today's Message: Giving Tithe

The prosperity of Israel in the promised land did not depend on advanced agricultural techniques, but on obedience to the Word of God. The Israelites were taught to tithe on all that they received. "Thou shalt truly tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year. And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always. And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; or if the place be too far from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, when the LORD thy God hath blessed thee: Then shalt thou turn it into money, and bind up the money in thine hand, and shalt go unto the place which the LORD thy God shall choose: And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: and thou shalt eat there before the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household," (Deuteronomy 14:22-26). The principle of tithing was made known through Abraham over six hundred years before the laws of giving were revealed to Moses. Jacob also tithed to acknowledge his gratitude to God, the Provider of all his blessings.

The Israelites were not only taught to bring their tithes to the Lord as a spiritual and moral obligation, but they were to rejoice with a heartfelt appreciation for the privilege of honoring God with their tithes and offerings. Tithing reminded the Israelites that they, as well as the land, belonged to the Lord. Since all they possessed was the result of His loving provision, before all other considerations, their tithes to the Lord were to be given first. Furthermore, no Israelite could come before the Lord without an offering commensurate with his income. To merely bring leftovers or a small part of one's tithe would be an expression of disobedience and ingratitude. "Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the LORD thy God which he hath given thee. Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes: and they shall judge the people with just judgment. Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous. That which is altogether just shalt thou follow, that thou mayest live, and inherit the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee." (16:17-20).

Although the Law commanded the Israelites to present their tithes to God no legal penalty was stated for those who failed to do so. The giving of the tithe was a testimony of love for God and an acknowledgment that He is truly the owner of all things. This offering was to be a voluntary expression of love. But the blessings of God would be withheld from all who selfishly withheld their tithes, whether rich or the poor.

Today, the Lord's ministries, missionaries, churches, Bible schools, translators, and other agencies are being sustained through the tithes and offerings of His people. To Israel, their only place to bring their tithes and offerings was the Temple. For the Church, Christ's Body on earth, tithes should be given to support the ministry of the Word and where one receives spiritual nurturing through the Word of God.

By the way, giving tithe is more than just giving money, some people do not have income coming in, in this case a tithe would be giving 10% of your time to God or the church, giving food or clothes that you do not need or wear any longer. Tithing is not about money, it's about acknowledging God and thanking Him for what you do have. " But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) Being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God." (II Corinthians 9:6-11).

Today's Psalm: 37:4
"Delight thyself also in the LORD: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart."

Today's Prayer:
Dear Lord,
In thanksgiving we lift our voices of praise from grateful hearts, Father, as we sing songs of praise and adoration to You, our blessed King. Whether in seasons of prosperity or in seasons of want we find Your grace sufficient to meet each one of our needs. You guide us, protect us, and You provide for us as we journey here below. I thank You for every good and perfect gift comes from Your hand. In Jesus' name.....................Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day/night and weekend.
God Bless,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Wednesday March 4, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read chapters 8-10 in your Bible, you can also Click Here to read them online. If the link does not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser:
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deute ronomy" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deute ronomy" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%208-10&version=9

Today's Message: False Prophets
During our Christian walk we are going to be constantly confronted by false prophets (people who know just enough Scripture to confuse us), causing us to doubt God's abilities.

Jesus began His earthly ministry by quoting from the book of Deuteronomy, "that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live." (Deuteronomy 8:3b). This was His response to Satan, who tempted Him to make bread for Himself from stones after His 40-day fast. "And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread." (Matthew 4:3). Satan was saying, if you are God's son, why should You, of all people, go hungry? However, Jesus knew that he was trying to tempt Him. "But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." (Matthew 4:4). Even Jesus was not exempt from Satan's tricks.
The closer you get to God the more Satan will try to tempt you and pull you away from Him.

Satan tried to tempt Jesus two more times, " Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him." (Matthew 4:5-11). Satan quoted Scripture, but only the portion that would apply to his temptation. Jesus again quoted Deuteronomy after the second temptation, saying, "Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God."

Do not be surprised or deceived when false prophets quote Scripture to support their agenda. By quoting Scripture, Satan attempted to lure Jesus into using His Deity to satisfy His ego, and thereby abolishing His position as fully Man, qualified to redeem the world. A vital key to overcoming Satan is knowing God's Word and it is the only means needed to defeat him. As we continue reading all of God's Word, the Holy Spirit brings it to our minds when it is needed, empowering us to overcome any temptation.

Moses continues his speech to the new generation of Israelites, he reminded them of how faithless their parents were. "Remember, and forget not, how thou provokedst the LORD thy God to wrath in the wilderness: from the day that thou didst depart out of the land of Egypt, until ye came unto this place, ye have been rebellious against the LORD..........And the LORD said unto me, Arise, get thee down quickly from hence; for thy people which thou hast brought forth out of Egypt have corrupted themselves; they are quickly turned aside out of the way which I commanded them; they have made them a molten image. Furthermore the LORD spake unto me, saying, I have seen this people, and, behold, it is a stiffnecked people: Let me alone, that I may destroy them, and blot out their name from under heaven: and I will make of thee a nation mightier and greater than they.........Ye have been rebellious against the LORD from the day that I knew you. Thus I fell down before the LORD forty days and forty nights, as I fell down at the first; because the LORD had said he would destroy you. I prayed therefore unto the LORD, and said, O Lord GOD, destroy not thy people and thine inheritance, which thou hast redeemed through thy greatness, which thou hast brought forth out of Egypt with a mighty hand." (Deuteronomy 9:7,12-14, 24-26). Forty years before, Israel had sworn allegiance to God and vowed to obey His commands, instead they chose to create their own god because they were too impatient to wait for God.

Still today, God's children are suffering because they chose to handle things on their own rather than wait patiently for God. We do not have to suffer nor do we have to keep worrying about getting the things we need. God provides us with everything if we just have faith and trust in Him. "And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind. For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you." (Luke 12:29-31).

Today's Psalm:1:3
"And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."

Today's Prayer:
Dear God,
Help me to remain faithful to You and your calling upon my life. Strengthen and grow my faith as I daily search Your Scriptures and apply their truths to my spiritual walk. As I go through the trials and experiences of my earthly journey would You fix my eyes and my ever-wandering heart upon Jesus. When the howling winds and forceful storms of this life attempt to shipwreck my faith may they instead prove my faith to be more than sufficient to withstand the continual assaults from the enemy. Because I take refuge in Jesus my spiritual foundation is firm, always dependable, and leads me to glorious victory. In Jesus name........Amen.

Have a wonderful and blessed day/night and rest of the week.
God Bless,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Monday March 3, 2009 and we are continuing our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read Chapters 3 & 4 in your Bible. You can also Click Here to read the chapters, if the link does not work you can copy & paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deute ronomy" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deute ronomy" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%203-4&version=9

Today's Message: Is it Love?
Our world is often confused as to the difference between love and lust. Real love gives, but lust always takes.

As Moses continued his speech to the new generation of Israelites he reminded them that living according to God's Word would bring lasting fulfillment. He began to explain the Law that God had given their parents 40 years earlier at Mount Sinai. "Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do them, that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers giveth you. Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you." (Deuteronomy 4:1-2). The one essential requirement for lasting fulfillment was obedience to God's Word.

The new generation who had grown up in the wilderness realized the reason their parents failed to enter the promised land was because they did not obey God regardless of how many blessings that they were given. "When thou art in tribulation, and all these things are come upon thee, even in the latter days, if thou turn to the LORD thy God, and shalt be obedient unto his voice; (For the LORD thy God is a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor forget the covenant of thy fathers which he sware unto them. For ask now of the days that are past, which were before thee, since the day that God created man upon the earth, and ask from the one side of heaven unto the other, whether there hath been any such thing as this great thing is, or hath been heard like it? Did ever people hear the voice of God speaking out of the midst of the fire, as thou hast heard, and live? Or hath God assayed to go and take him a nation from the midst of another nation, by temptations, by signs, and by wonders, and by war, and by a mighty hand, and by a stretched out arm, and by great terrors, according to all that the LORD your God did for you in Egypt before your eyes? Unto thee it was shewed, that thou mightest know that the LORD he is God; there is none else beside him." (4:30-35). Now, the desert wanderings ceased as they settled into the west side of the Jordan within the promised land. Houses replaced the tents and produce from the land replaced the manna but, most precious of all, they experienced a new revelation of God, the revelation of His love!

From creation in the Book of Genesis to the Book of Numbers, the love of God was never made known until it was revealed in this book. For the first time during the hundreds of years of recorded history they heard, "And because he loved thy fathers, therefore he chose their seed after them, and brought thee out in his sight with his mighty power out of Egypt; To drive out nations from before thee greater and mightier than thou art, to bring thee in, to give thee their land for an inheritance, as it is this day." (4:37-38). Love is the holiest motive from which God or man can act.

To feel accepted, wanted, and loved is everyone's desire, but we will be faced with many people in our lives who will try to take our love for granted. True love is unconditional, not wanting or expecting something in return. Jesus loved us unconditionally when He gave His life for us so that we could have life eternally. "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 5:8-9).

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 God,
There is a place of quiet rest and spiritual uplifting when we draw near to You.  So many activities, attractions, and affections rival for our attention,  but when we prioritize by giving You first place we give opportunity for You to show your love to a thousand generations of those who love you and keep your commandments. We want to continually offer to You a sacrifice of praise through our lips that confess Your name and through our lives that reveal Your transforming power at work within us. We do this through the power of Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus' name........Amen.

Have a wonderful night/day and have a blessed week.
God bless,
Christina

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Hello My Friend/Guest,

Today is Sunday March 1, 2009 and we are beginning our studies on the book of Deuteronomy. Please read chapters 1 & 2 in your Bible, you can also Click Here to read them. If the link dies not work you can copy and paste this link into your browser: http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deute ronomy" title="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deute ronomy" target="_blank"http://www.biblegateway.com/p...%201-2&version=9

Today's Message: Facing Giants

The book of Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament and contains thirty-four chapters. The author of the book is Moses and it was written to the Israelites. The purpose of the book was to restate the law to the new generations of Israelites born since Mt. Sinai. What we are to learn from the book is that obedience brings blessing, but disobedience brings judgment.

In his first message to the new generation Moses reminded the Israelites that they were about eleven days journey from Horeb. This message marked the fortieth year of their being in the wilderness, " These be the words which Moses spake unto all Israel on this side Jordan in the wilderness, in the plain over against the Red sea, between Paran, and Tophel, and Laban, and Hazeroth, and Dizahab. (There are eleven days' journey from Horeb by the way of mount Seir unto Kadeshbarnea.) And it came to pass in the fortieth year, in the eleventh month, on the first day of the month, that Moses spake unto the children of Israel, according unto all that the LORD had given him in commandment unto them;.............Turn you, and take your journey, and go to the mount of the Amorites, and unto all the places nigh thereunto, in the plain, in the hills, and in the vale, and in the south, and by the sea side, to the land of the Canaanites, and unto Lebanon, unto the great river, the river Euphrates.Behold, I have set the land before you: go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give unto them and to their seed after them." (Deuteronomy 1:1-3,7-8). The new generation probably wondered if they would ever move out of the wilderness and into the promised land. Would they take choose God at His Word and live by faith or will they follow in their ancestors footsteps?

The older generation despite their miraculous deliverance from Egypt, sinned against the Lord by not believing that He would give them victory over the Canaanites. By faith, the promised land could have been theirs, but they failed to receive it because they saw giants (hardships) ahead. They did not recognize that their hardships were designed to test their faith and prepare them to defeat the Canaanites. As a consequence of their sin of unbelief, that first generation failed to accomplish the will of God and wasted their lives wandering in the wilderness until they all died except for Caleb and Joshua.

Moses reminded them of how God had blessed them in the wilderness even after they had been disobedient. "For the LORD thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thy hand: he knoweth thy walking through this great wilderness: these forty years the LORD thy God hath been with thee; thou hast lacked nothing." (2:7). How different the history of Israel could have been if they had trusted the Word of God instead of believing the report of the ten spies.

We too have a choice, we can choose to be like the many Israelites who found fault with everything. Or we can choose to be like Caleb and Joshua whose faith in God's Word overcame all fears and frustrations. In the midst of giant problems, the Holy Spirit is available to all who put their faith in the Lord to overcome their giants. " Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;" (Ephesians 6:14-18).

Today's Psalm: 40:10
"I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation."

Have a wonderful and blessed night/day.
God bless,
Christina

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