tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86222216754723500032024-03-12T22:53:18.728-04:00In His NameReneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.comBlogger236125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-62736699811211411642016-10-31T05:26:00.001-04:002016-10-31T08:54:45.398-04:00This is the Day<div style="text-align: justify;">
<em><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">This is the day that the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it.
~Psalm 118:24</span></span></em></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">The climate in our world today is very chaotic. There are
so many differing views and opinions that could often cause confusion. But as a
Christian, I know that God is not the author of confusion and His Word is truth.
He gives us assurance far beyond what the world could ever offer. The assurance
that cause rejoicing, even in dire situations.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia";"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Have you ever seen a person praising God at a funeral?
Have you ever heard a person saying, “Thank you, Jesus,” when they have been
hurt? Not only have I heard it, I have been that person. It may seem strange to
others to see someone glorifying God when circumstances appear dismal, but not
to the true believer. I thank God for giving life, although it may be hard to
let go when a loved one passes on. I thank God when I’ve been hurt emotionally
or physically because I can recognize how to move forward [emotionally] and
that I have the ability to feel pain [physically]. Does this mean that I want
people to die in my life or that I want to live in pain? Absolutely not, that’s
not what I’m saying.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Psalm 118:24 makes a solid statement that <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">this is the day that the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it</i> … period. There isn’t a conjunction offering
an alternative. It doesn’t matter what you may be going through, Jesus Christ
is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Although our
situations may change, God never does. His truth stands no matter what.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">So, today let’s meditate on what was accomplished on the
Cross and not the gore and darkness of what the devil would have us to. It does
not have to be Easter Sunday for us to acknowledge His Sacrifice. Many have
distorted Halloween as a time of “having innocent </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">fun” by celebrating gloom.
Instead, why not gather to celebrate life like many do at fall festivals? <br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">God made October 31<sup>st</sup> too, and it is for <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">His</i> glory, not the enemy’s. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
</span></div>
Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-86836538883055859722015-02-13T11:23:00.000-05:002015-02-13T11:25:32.086-05:00Love...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9-QTw9xpGE/VN4ioekGaJI/AAAAAAAAAiU/BP98IpFHS2k/s1600/heart%2Bphoto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u9-QTw9xpGE/VN4ioekGaJI/AAAAAAAAAiU/BP98IpFHS2k/s1600/heart%2Bphoto.jpg" /></a></div>
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As we embark upon the weekend that boasts in love, I am ever
so reminded of the love God has for me … <i>for us</i>. He has taught me what true
love really is, not only in words, but also in deed. God gave His only Son to
die in my place and for that I can never repay Him. How could I possibly? He
did this not so that we would try to do things to repay Him for His sacrifice,
but He did this to show us that He dearly loves us.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When I look at the marriage relationship between a man and
a woman, I am often reminded of what the Apostle Paul spoke about in the fifth
chapter of Ephesians:<o:p></o:p></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">22 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. <sup>23 </sup>For
the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He
is the Savior of the body. <sup>24 </sup>Therefore, just as the church is
subject to Christ, so <i>let</i> the wives <i>be</i> to their own husbands in
everything.<br /><o:p></o:p></span><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">25 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Husbands, love your wives, just as
Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, <sup>26 </sup>that
He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word, <sup>27 </sup>that
He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle
or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. <sup>28 </sup>So
husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his
wife loves himself. <sup>29 </sup>For no one ever hated his own flesh, but
nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord <i>does</i> the church.<o:p></o:p></span></blockquote>
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This description led me to ponder how we ought to truly
uphold our relationship, our commitment, with the Lord. For those who are
married or in committed relationships, how do we value our mates? Do we respect
them? Do we honor them? Do we consider their feelings, thoughts, and emotions?
How about their dreams, visions, and aspirations? Well, God does, so much so
that He teaches us Heavenly matters through earthly explanations in ways that
we can understand them. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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No one honestly desires to be trampled on, used, abused, and
discarded. People don’t generally want to be the brunt of ridicule or
maltreatment. So, when in a committed relationship, if we don’t want those
things from a mate, we can certainly reason that God does not want that from
us.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Do we love Him?</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>“If you love me, keep my commandments.” ~ John 14:15, NKJV.</b></blockquote>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-57444488062124901292012-07-05T05:00:00.000-04:002012-07-05T23:55:22.116-04:00Freedom & Liberty: Only through Jesus Christ<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 0pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Luke 4:18-19</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Amplified Bible (AMP)</span></div>
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<em><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">18 </span></sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Spirit of the Lord [is] upon Me, because He has anointed
Me [the Anointed One, the Messiah] to preach the good news (the Gospel) to the
poor; He has sent Me to announce release to the captives and recovery of sight
to the blind, to send forth as delivered those who are oppressed [who are
downtrodden, bruised, crushed, and broken down by calamity],<o:p></o:p></span></em></div>
<em>
</em><br />
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<sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><em>19 </em></span></sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><em>To proclaim the accepted and acceptable year of the
Lord [the day <sup>[<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=luke%204:18-19&version=AMP#fen-AMP-25081a" title="See footnote a"><span style="color: blue;">a</span></a>]</sup>when
salvation and the free favors of God profusely abound].</em> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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(Additional reference: Isaiah 61)<br />
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<span class="woj"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The
message of this verse resonates throughout the entire Bible: Freedom &
Liberty. After having celebrated Independence Day, I know that the only way we
are truly free is through Jesus Christ. “What does it mean to be free?” some
may ask, while others question, “What does it really feel like?” In my own
words, freedom is simply resting in the finished work on the Cross. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="woj"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Many
have challenging situations or financial hardships in life, while others appear
to have it all together born with a “silver spoon” in their mouths. Some battle
domestic violence while others may have a home filled with love and nurturing.
No matter what the environment, we all have our crosses to bear and for some of
us it may be a little heavier than the next person, but we must remember that
to whom much is given, much is required (reference Luke 12:48).<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="woj"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">One
of the most beautiful accounts of freedom I’ve heard about came from a passage
in the book <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Tortured for Christ</i>
written by Richard Wurmbrand. His experiences of being tortured in prison
because of his faith in Jesus Christ epitomize the meaning of <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">beauty for ashes</i>. Although his body was beaten
and forced to endure all kinds of cruelty, his faith was strengthened. He
looked to the Lord where his help came from. Wurmbrand had to keep his mind on
the Lord even as others cursed and ridiculed him. The battlefield is in the
mind and we must keep our minds stayed on God, that’s the only way we are guaranteed
peace.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span class="woj"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">As
I continue my walk with the Lord, I pray that I recognize more opportunities to
share the love of Christ with others and to let them know that freedom is
available to us all, we just have to accept it by accepting Jesus Christ as
Lord and Savior.</span></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and
believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.
For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth
confession is made unto salvation.</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>~Romans 10:9-10<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-7503464670901088962011-07-05T11:18:00.000-04:002011-07-05T11:18:18.116-04:00The Meek Shall Inherit the Earth<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Psalm 37:7-24, NKJV</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>Learn to be content, whatever the situation, as long as you are in the Lord. Wait patiently on God, He will elevate you to where He wants you in due season. Continue serving Him with the heart and not the flesh for God is a spirit and those who worship Him must do so in spirit and in truth...</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">7 Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for Him; do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass. 8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not fret—it only causes harm. 9 For evildoers shall be cut off; but those who wait on the LORD, they shall inherit the earth. 10 For yet a little while and the wicked shall be no more; indeed, you will look carefully for his place, but it shall be no more. 11 But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. 12 The wicked plots against the just, and gnashes at him with his teeth. 13 The Lord laughs at him, for He sees that his day is coming. 14 The wicked have drawn the sword and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy, to slay those who are of upright conduct. 15 Their sword shall enter their own heart, and their bows shall be broken. 16 A little that a righteous man has is better than the riches of many wicked. 17 For the arms of the wicked shall be broken, but the LORD upholds the righteous. 18 The LORD knows the days of the upright, and their inheritance shall be forever.19 They shall not be ashamed in the evil time, and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied. 20 But the wicked shall perish; and the enemies of the LORD, like the splendor of the meadows, shall vanish. Into smoke they shall vanish away. 21 The wicked borrows and does not repay, but the righteous shows mercy and gives. 22 For those blessed by Him shall inherit the earth, but those cursed by Him shall be cut off. 23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, and He delights in his way. 24 Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the LORD upholds him with His hand. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Recommended Reading</strong>: Psalm 37 (entire division)</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-42660479028349885712011-04-29T13:00:00.000-04:002011-04-29T13:00:27.937-04:00Nothing Impossible with God<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em>For with God nothing will be impossible</em>,” Luke 1:37.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In this life, as we know it, there are encounters that challenge our physical and at times our spiritual strength or endurance. We may face adversity that test our faith and determine our strength. It is important as Christians that we remember Who our trust lies within. It is not in our own power or ability that trials are overcome, but by the power and might of the Almighty God.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In our lives and the lives of others, we may be able to pinpoint various “valley” experiences and “mountaintop” occurrences; euphoric highs and tumultuous lows. But we must be mindful that God is not only present when good things happen in our lives, but He is there when we go through the challenging times as well. He is not a fair-weather god, He is the omnipresent God who promises never to leave nor forsake His children … and He doesn’t (Hebrews 13:5).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When we aim high and set goals for ourselves, we shouldn’t let naysayers discourage us from working towards the things God said we can achieve. The Bible states in Philippians 4:13, “I<em> can do all things through Christ who strengthens me</em>.” As long as we operate in His will and trust in the Lord, God will withhold no good thing (Psalm 84:11).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As we meditate on the truth and assurance that God can do anything and there is nothing impossible with Him, let us receive that Word. It takes more than just knowing what the Bible says; let it come alive within you. When someone offers a gift to you, it’s not truly yours until you accept it. Jesus died for a fallen world; He gave Himself as a ransom for all. And when He returns as the Bridegroom for His bride, only those committed to the Lord will go with Him. Accept all that the God has to give. Our union with God is a spiritual marriage, you’d be amazed at the power unlocked when you answer Him, “Yes, Lord, I do.” </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Scripture taken from NKJV</strong></div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-48112204274663518572011-03-21T13:40:00.000-04:002011-03-21T13:40:00.906-04:00About My Father's Business<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Luke 2:40-50 (New King James Version)</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>40 And the Child grew and became strong in spirit,[a] filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him. 41 His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. 42 And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast. 43 When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother[b] did not know it; 44 but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances. 45 So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him. 46 Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers. 48 So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.” 49 And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” 50 But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them</em>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Many circles of families and friends are close and exhibit love to one another. It’s nice to know that you’re in the thoughts of many who care about you; those who pray the best for you and are willing to give in any way to help you along your way. In this passage of Scripture, Jesus had grown to be a twelve year old and was strong in spirit and filled with wisdom. When His earthly parents (Joseph and Mary) questioned why Jesus had treated them in away that caused them worry, He answered in a way that they did not understand. He said, “<em>Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business</em>?”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As I pondered this Scripture, I thought about all that had been revealed to Joseph and Mary years prior. Mary conceived the Child of the Holy Spirit. The angel of the Lord had appeared unto Joseph and confirmed this. They knew that He was the Son of God, but when Jesus answered them saying that He had to be about His Father’s business, they did not fully grasp the meaning of what He was saying. The Scripture goes further to state that His mother kept all these sayings in her heart. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Mary knew it was a great call on her life to carry the Son of God in her womb. The favor of God was upon her life. And like a mother, she bonded closely with this Child. Although she was fondly attached to Jesus, He was not exclusively hers. God gave His only begotten Son to die for a fallen world. Mary didn’t want anything bad to happen to Jesus. As the Scripture states, they (Joseph and Mary) went back to seek Him. As a mother, she felt responsible for His well-being … but God cares for us best. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As we venture out into the world to do His will, our loved ones may be concerned for our safety and well-being. There are negative and cruel people in this world, but we must be about our Father’s business. As Christians, we are called to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with the world. This is not to be about ourselves, but to be about advancing the Kingdom which is our Father’s business.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em>And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men</em>,” Colossians 3:23. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are many out there about their business; many who seek to advance themselves. But the Bible states, “<em>But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you</em>,” Matthew 6:33. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em>For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly</em>,” Psalm 84:11.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-13584141157324966002011-02-03T14:35:00.001-05:002011-02-03T14:36:35.997-05:00Facing Adversity<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">"<em>And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry,</em>" 2 Timothy 4:4-5, KJV. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">"<em>And will turn aside from hearing the truth and wander off into myths and man-made fictions. As for you, be <strong>calm</strong> and <strong>cool</strong> and <strong>steady</strong>, <strong>accept and suffer unflinchingly every hardship</strong>, do the work of an evangelist, fully perform all the duties of your ministry</em>," 2 Timothy 4:4-5, Amp.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are times in life when we face adversity, but these are the times we ought to cling to our faith even more. Being mindful that we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual wickedness in high places (Ephesians 6), it puts things into perspective. No matter what, we must hold up the bloodstained banner.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">When we encounter or experience those who downplay the power and might of our God, at least for me, it catapults me into defense mode. I am compelled to <strong>defend</strong> <strong>Him</strong>. Let us consider moments where our loved ones are unjustly spoken against, would you just sit there and say nothing if you could? Why does it seem as if when angry or derogatory words are thrown into the atmosphere that degrades our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, many (who are proclaimed Christians) say nothing about it? Imagine if Jesus was sitting right next to you (which He is in our hearts) and a saddened expression unfolds across his face. Would it prompt you to then defend Him?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We ought to truly lay down our lives and pick up the Cross (for every one has his/her own to bear). It is important to not be fair-weathered Christians, praising God only when things seem to be going well in our lives. We must honor Him at all times. He is not a celestial slot machine or a bellhop at our beckon call. We are called to serve Him, knowing that no good thing will He withhold. Is our trust in the Almighty or self?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In recent months, it has come to sadden me that some want to acknowledge God only when it is convenient. There may be someone waiting to hear about Christ and you at that particular moment could be the messenger. Somebody cared enough about us to share the Gospel; will you care enough to do the same?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-4581401041235807162011-01-26T13:57:00.001-05:002011-01-27T11:10:47.189-05:00Jesus Loves Us<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">John 3:16-21, NKJV</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em>For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved. 18 He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. 19 And this is the condemnation, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20 For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed. 21 But he who does the truth comes to the light, that his deeds may be clearly seen, that they have been done in God</em>.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Usually, the first verse in this passage is often quoted, but let us explore even further. To the average person, they know John 3:16. They know what the Bible says in this verse, that God loves us so much that He gave His only begotten Son, but do they actually believe it. And if they believe it, have they actually received it? In knowing the Word so well, it sometimes appears that there’s this spin off into a world of oblivion, for whatever reason. Many shun those who carefully share the Gospel of Jesus Christ out of love. Some backlash at another brother or sister for sharing the truth, but fail to personally seek God on the matter. For instance, verse 17: “<em>For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved</em>.” There is <strong>no</strong> condemnation in Christ Jesus. “<em>There is therefore now <strong>no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus</strong>, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit</em>,” Romans 8:1, KJV. Jesus came to save the world. Do we seriously think He came all the way from Heaven just to point the finger and say you’re wrong, uh-uh you’re wrong, and hmm you’re wrong too? No, He came because He already knew that. Jesus came because the world was fallen and <strong>needed</strong> a Savior. He came to save. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Verse 18-19: “<em>He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe <strong>is condemned already</strong>, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. <strong>And this is the condemnation</strong>, that the light has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil</em>.” Many condemn themselves by rejecting God. And whether some want to admit it or not, when you willfully sin, you’re rejecting God. There is a stark difference when you do something wrong and genuinely ask God to forgive you with a earnest desire in seeking God’s help in the matter, than asking for forgiveness with a mind already set to do it again (Hebrews 10:26). God is not a toy to be played with. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Verse 20: “<em>For everyone practicing evil hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his deeds should be exposed</em>.” God came to shed light. He is Light. But sadly many hate the Light because He holds them responsible for their actions. And when their actions are evil and dark, the Light exposes it. How do we to let our light shine as the Bible instructs if we’re steadily putting it out by the way we live?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">No matter the point in your life, praise God for His love. Thank Him for giving when we didn’t deserve. Honor Him by living for Him. He said that if we love Him, we’ll keep His commandments. We’ll obey His commandments if we <strong>truly</strong> love Him.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">If we don’t get anything else, let us receive that Jesus loves us. Look back to the Cross, He proved it there. Are we proving it to Him today?</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-67683718070033806092011-01-04T18:04:00.002-05:002011-01-04T18:11:46.303-05:00A Declaration of New Things<strong><em>The Lord declares new things... </em></strong><br />
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<strong>Isaiah 42:8-18, KJV</strong><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">8I am the LORD: that is my name: and my glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to graven images. </div>9Behold, the former things are come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring forth I tell you of them.<br />
10Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise from the end of the earth, ye that go down to the sea, and all that is therein; the isles, and the inhabitants thereof. <br />
11Let the wilderness and the cities thereof lift up their voice, the villages that Kedar doth inhabit: let the inhabitants of the rock sing, let them shout from the top of the mountains. <br />
12Let them give glory unto the LORD, and declare his praise in the islands. <br />
<strong>13The LORD shall go forth as a mighty man, he shall stir up jealousy like a man of war: he shall cry, yea, roar; he shall prevail against his enemies. </strong><br />
<strong>14I have long time holden my peace; I have been still, and refrained myself: now will I cry like a travailing woman; I will destroy and devour at once.</strong> <br />
15I will make waste mountains and hills, and dry up all their herbs; and I will make the rivers islands, and I will dry up the pools. <br />
16And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them. <br />
17They shall be turned back, they shall be greatly ashamed, that trust in graven images, that say to the molten images, Ye are our gods. <br />
18Hear, ye deaf; and look, ye blind, that ye may see.<br />
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<strong><em>In this new year... give up idols. The Lord declares it.</em></strong>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-14879540371370850752010-12-28T20:26:00.000-05:002010-12-28T20:26:48.316-05:00Weeping May Endure for a Night...<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong><em>But joy comes in the morning...</em></strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
<strong>Psalm 30</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;">1I will extol thee, O LORD; for thou hast lifted me up, and hast not made my foes to rejoice over me. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">2O LORD my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">3O LORD, thou hast brought up my soul from the grave: thou hast kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>4Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness. </strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;">5For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">6And in my prosperity I said, I shall never be moved. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">7LORD, by thy favour thou hast made my mountain to stand strong: thou didst hide thy face, and I was troubled. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">8I cried to thee, O LORD; and unto the LORD I made supplication. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">9What profit is there in my blood, when I go down to the pit? Shall the dust praise thee? shall it declare thy truth? </div><div style="text-align: justify;">10Hear, O LORD, and have mercy upon me: LORD, be thou my helper. </div><div style="text-align: justify;">11Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness; </div><div style="text-align: justify;">12To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-85778182938244385702010-12-21T13:03:00.000-05:002010-12-21T13:03:16.400-05:00Bold in the Truth<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em>Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus</em>;” 2 Timothy 2:15-17, KJV. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Isn’t it amazing how many non-believers are allowed, even prompted, to say whatever derogatory things their hearts so desire and Christians are expected to remain quiet? How disheartening it is to turn on the television to watch an old show and when commercials pop up, they totally disrupt your spirit. One could be viewing a documentary and the next minute here comes a commercial that drops profanity like it’s the natural thing to do. Well, I guess it is natural in this world.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It appears that the further we go along, year to year, decade to decade, it becomes progressively worse. It has become the norm to not only use profanity, but to use God’s name in vain. It is because many don’t truly believe that God will do what He said He’ll do. “<em>Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain</em>,” Exodus 20:7. But many are ready to fight if another profanes the name of their mother or father. Why aren’t many who are professed Christians just as angered, or even moreso, when our heavenly Father’s name is degraded?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As we share God’s Word, we are to not be ashamed. Those of us who rightly divide the Word of truth, studying to show ourselves approved, must be bold. If we’re not bold or feel that we don’t have it in us to speak up ask God to develop it in you. Not everyone is outspoken although we may have a burning desire to serve Christ. Those of us who are shy, I implore you to ask God for it—I did. He is there to provide our needs. No good thing will God withhold. Many of us have not because we ask not. Ask and you shall receive according to His will. And this is definitely in God’s will because Jesus instructs us to share the Gospel with all.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are many who are bold in unrighteousness that could care less about Christ and Christians. But Jesus warned us of these things. Jesus knew that we would have trials and tribulations. He knew that we would face adversity, but He equipped us. “Think <em>not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword</em>,” Matthew 10:34. Jesus is peace and the sword is the Word of truth. He came to send a sword because He knew we would have to fight. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Put on your armor and be prepared to fight, remembering that we fight not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual wickedness in high places. Despite those wiles of the devil, there is victory in Jesus!</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-74700564487803371052010-12-14T05:43:00.001-05:002010-12-14T05:43:57.804-05:00Controversy over the Sabbath (revisited)<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is interesting that many view Christians who go to church on Sunday as Sabbath breakers, although our Sabbath is Christ. We are to rest in the finished work completed on the Cross. While many acknowledge the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, has it truly been accepted? </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We must be careful not to fall into legalism, merely observing a set of rules to be saved because works do not save us—Christ does. We do works because we <strong>ARE</strong> saved. We no longer have a desire to sin, although we’re not sinless. As Christians we place our trust and faith in Christ, not in our ability to keep this rule or that law. This does not mean that we run around shouting, “God knows my heart!” using this as some sort of escape clause to obeying His commands, rather understanding that God examines our motives to see if they are pure. “<em>Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God</em>,” Matthew 5:8. Are we truly seeking His kingdom and His righteousness? Are we truly loving one another and obeying His commands?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This point here, obeying His commands, takes us back to the fourth commandment where so many question our purpose for worshipping collectively on Sunday versus Saturday. Many view this as not obeying His commands. Well, even Jesus was questioned about His actions on the “Sabbath” (Matthew 12:3-8). But what many fail to realize is that Jesus came to fulfill the Law. His IS the Sabbath (Matthew 12:8). “<em>For while the Law was given through Moses, grace ([a]unearned, undeserved favor and spiritual blessing) and truth came through Jesus Christ,(A)” </em>John 1:17, AMP.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em>And that through Him everyone who believes [who [a]acknowledges Jesus as his Savior and devotes himself to Him] is absolved (cleared and freed) from every charge from which he could not be justified and freed by the Law of Moses and given right standing with God</em>,” Acts 13:39, AMP.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As we rest in Christ, we open ourselves up to be led by the Holy Spirit. “<em>When Gentiles who have not the [divine] Law do instinctively what the Law requires, they are a law to themselves, since they do not have the Law. They show that the essential requirements of the Law are written in their hearts and are operating there, with which their consciences (sense of right and wrong) also bear witness; and their [moral] [e]decisions (their arguments of reason, their condemning or approving [f]thoughts) will accuse or perhaps defend and excuse [them]</em>,” Romans 2:14-15, AMP.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There were hundreds of laws and commandments written in the Old Testament where yearly sins had to be atoned for, but there came One who made the ultimate sacrifice where those others were no longer needed. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Rest in the finished work on the Cross and be led by the Holy Spirit. He will never lead you astray. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Recommended reading</strong>: <a href="http://renee-mccoy.blogspot.com/2009/12/controversy-over-sabbath.html">Controversy over the Sabbath—original posting</a> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-79577246317212742872010-12-07T18:53:00.000-05:002010-12-07T18:53:37.364-05:00Hated Without Cause<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">Ever been hated for no apparent reason? Refer to this Psalm of David, keeping in mind that the world hated Jesus before it hated you. And as you represent Jesus, the world will hate you for it. Turn to the Lord, no other help I know.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"></span> </div><div align="justify"></div><div align="justify"><strong>Psalm 35</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><sup>1</sup>Plead my cause, O LORD, with them that strive with me: fight against them that fight against me. <sup>2</sup>Take hold of shield and buckler, and stand up for mine help. <sup>3</sup>Draw out also the spear, and stop the way against them that persecute me: say unto my soul, I am thy salvation. <sup>4</sup>Let them be confounded and put to shame that seek after my soul: let them be turned back and brought to confusion that devise my hurt. <sup>5</sup>Let them be as chaff before the wind: and let the angel of the LORD chase them. <sup>6</sup>Let their way be dark and slippery: and let the angel of the LORD persecute them. <sup>7</sup>For without cause have they hid for me their net in a pit, which without cause they have digged for my soul. <sup>8</sup>Let destruction come upon him at unawares; and let his net that he hath hid catch himself: into that very destruction let him fall. <sup>9</sup>And my soul shall be joyful in the LORD: it shall rejoice in his salvation. <sup>10</sup>All my bones shall say, LORD, who is like unto thee, which deliverest the poor from him that is too strong for him, yea, the poor and the needy from him that spoileth him? <sup>11</sup>False witnesses did rise up; they laid to my charge things that I knew not. <sup>12</sup>They rewarded me evil for good to the spoiling of my soul. <sup>13</sup>But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing was sackcloth: I humbled my soul with fasting; and my prayer returned into mine own bosom. <sup>14</sup>I behaved myself as though he had been my friend or brother: I bowed down heavily, as one that mourneth for his mother. <sup>15</sup>But in mine adversity they rejoiced, and gathered themselves together: yea, the abjects gathered themselves together against me, and I knew it not; they did tear me, and ceased not: <sup>16</sup>With hypocritical mockers in feasts, they gnashed upon me with their teeth. <sup>17</sup>Lord, how long wilt thou look on? rescue my soul from their destructions, my darling from the lions. <sup>18</sup>I will give thee thanks in the great congregation: I will praise thee among much people. <sup>19</sup>Let not them that are mine enemies wrongfully rejoice over me: neither let them wink with the eye that hate me without a cause. <sup>20</sup>For they speak not peace: but they devise deceitful matters against them that are quiet in the land. <sup>21</sup>Yea, they opened their mouth wide against me, and said, Aha, aha, our eye hath seen it. <sup>22</sup>This thou hast seen, O LORD: keep not silence: O Lord, be not far from me. <sup>23</sup>Stir up thyself, and awake to my judgment, even unto my cause, my God and my Lord. <sup>24</sup>Judge me, O LORD my God, according to thy righteousness; and let them not rejoice over me. <sup>25</sup>Let them not say in their hearts, Ah, so would we have it: let them not say, We have swallowed him up. <sup>26</sup>Let them be ashamed and brought to confusion together that rejoice at mine hurt: let them be clothed with shame and dishonour that magnify themselves against me. <sup>27</sup>Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant. <sup>28</sup><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">And my tongue shall speak of thy righteousness and of thy praise all the day long.</b></span></div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-38194827556571455062010-11-30T19:12:00.000-05:002010-11-30T19:12:43.982-05:00God’s Will Be Done<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em>Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven</em>,” Matthew 6:9-10, NKJV.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are times in our lives when we don’t understand why God allow certain things to occur. There are also times when we may have sick family members and we pray for them to get healed, and they don’t. Have we ever considered that death is the best healing? Of course, this is for those who die in Christ.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the model prayer that Jesus, our Lord and Savior, set forth for us to pattern our prayers after, He instructed us to pray in this manner, “<em>Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven</em>.” When we reach a level of spiritual maturity, as Christians we begin to understand that God is sovereign. And although we may not like everything that goes on in our lives, we must trust Him that He knows what He is doing. There may be a mother on her death bed whom a child doesn’t want to let go, but they belong to God … we all do. Even within ourselves, we may be facing a terrible situation where we see no way out, but God is The WAY. As Jesus stated, He <strong>is</strong> the door. “<em>Then Jesus said to them again, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, <strong>I am the door </strong>of the sheep</em>,’” John 10:7, NKJV. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">There is nothing too hard for God. In recognizing this, allow the peace of God (the peace that passes all understanding: Phil 4:7) to rest upon your hearts, praying that His will be done just as Jesus prayed. “<em>He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, ‘O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will,</em>’” Matthew 26:39, NKJV.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Are you facing a difficult situation, lacking the understanding of why it’s happening? It is not for us to know the answer to everything. God’s ways are not our ways nor are His thoughts our thoughts. We must cast our cares upon Him for He cares for us. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Pray for God’s will to be done. It produces the best outcome no matter the situation.</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-88468576341808589812010-11-22T13:00:00.001-05:002010-11-22T19:36:19.612-05:00The Secret Place<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em>He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust</em>,” Psalm 91:1-2, NKJV.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Focal Scripture</strong>: Psalm 91</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This Psalm speaks directly to those who trust in the Lord. And I believe it also speaks to those who need to trust in the Lord; those who may have been searching for a way out of their situations and circumstances, but too afraid to admit that they need help.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Psalm 91 opens with an affirmation of faith: “<em>He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty</em>.” The word dwells means to live in, reside in, or stay in. It describes a place that you would rest in, a place that is synonymous with home. And for the writer to go directly from dwell to secret place prompts the reader to think of a place of safety, especially when the word refuge and fortress is used to describe God. My husband was in the military twenty years of his life and I’m sure there have been times when either he or fellow soldiers had to retreat to military bunkers or bomb shelters. Those shelters or bunkers provided safety from the outside chaos. This is what it is like when resting in God.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">This particular Psalm goes on to describe how God is worthy to be trusted. There are references made of how He delivers and protects: “<em>Surely He shall deliver you from the snare of the fowler[a] and from the perilous pestilence. He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge; His truth shall be your shield and buckler. You shall not be afraid of the terror by night, nor of the arrow that flies by day, nor of the pestilence that walks in darkness, nor of the destruction that lays waste at noonday</em>,” verses 3-6. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The way God protects is not true with any other being. God is the only One who can deliver and protect the way that He does. As human beings we may have good intentions, but our strength is limited. God is omnipotent. There may be times when we want to help a family member or friend out of a bind, but cannot. God is there, the ever present help, in our times of need. “<em>For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways. In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone</em>,” verses 11-12. God provides us with guardian angels.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We must be mindful that this protection does not apply to everyone. This protection comes because we acknowledge His name. He places His protection over us because we place our trust in Him—not a job, spouses, or parents.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em><strong>Because</strong> he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, <strong>because</strong> he has known My name</em>,” verse 14.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Acknowledge God no matter where you are or who you may be around. He is not to just be tucked away whenever we think we need Him, but to be reverenced at ALL times. We trust Him to deliver us from our troubles. Can He trust us to acknowledge Him?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-51086282317846624542010-11-16T13:48:00.001-05:002010-11-16T13:50:28.485-05:00God is The Source<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">From the beginning of time, God has been making provisions for the inhabitants of Earth. Even before we were ever created, God made sure that we had everything that we’d ever need which was all in Him. He created the heaven and the earth. He spoke into existence light in which we are able to see. He placed food in the sea and herbs upon the earth for us to eat. So why do we worry about what we think we don’t have?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em><span style="color: red;">And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith</span></em>?” Matthew 6:28-30, KJV.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>Just pray and trust God…</em> Often, this is much easier said than done. What makes it difficult or challenging? Well, when in the midst of holding a child that may be dying in your arms—that could make it challenging. Or when hungry and there’s no food in the house or money in your pockets—that could make it challenging. But God said His word would not return unto Him void, that it will accomplish that thing in which He sent it to do (Isaiah 55:11). Why does faith shrink in times like these? God tells us to take no thought, wondering, what we will eat, drink or be clothed. He knows that we need these things. So, He instructs us to seek His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these other things will be given to us.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Let us not deceive ourselves into thinking that our spouses, jobs, or government checks are our source. Those are just resources that God uses to get to us what He already knows that we need. Let us remember, God has been making provisions for us ever since the beginning of time. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">God is <strong>The Source</strong>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Recommended Reading</strong>: Genesis 1, Matthew 6:25-34</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-63228540527643465062010-11-08T20:21:00.000-05:002010-11-08T20:21:40.139-05:00Faith<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em>For we walk by faith [we [a]regulate our lives and conduct ourselves by our conviction or belief respecting man's relationship to God and divine things, with trust and holy fervor; thus we walk] not by sight or appearance</em>,” 2 Corinthians 5:7, AMP.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Things may not always look like what God has promised, but if you could see it, that’s not faith. We may go through trials and tribulations, but that does not mean that God has forgotten about us. “<em>Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy</em>,” 1 Peter 4:12-13, KJV. It is important to stand on the word of God and not the word of man. Man will have you going in so many directions that they themselves may not even follow, but our loyalty is to be to God. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">God has clearly spoken into my spirit today that I am to have faith in Him, no matter what others may say. I am to have faith in Him regardless of the opinions of others. I am to have faith in Him, casting my cares upon Him for He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). I thank God that He looks at the heart, extending unmerited favor upon our lives—His grace. I thank God that He loved us so much that He gave His only begotten Son so that we can have everlasting life—Salvation. I thank God for His Holy Spirit who leads us into all truth—Revelation. I thank God for being God—Awesome above all things.</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-5628946155328333332010-11-01T17:41:00.000-04:002010-11-01T17:41:46.516-04:00Hunger for His Presence<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Earlier this year, the passage of Psalm 63 was posted. Today, I look at this same division of Psalm, keying in on verses 1 and 2: “<em>O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary</em>.” </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">As noted in the book of 1 Samuel, David was constantly at battle. It seemed a normal occasion for him to not only be fighting, but also persistently seeking God for guidance. As I read 1 Samuel 30, the sixth verse jumped out at me, “<em>And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: <strong>but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God</strong></em>.” </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the midst of turmoil, David encouraged himself in the Lord. He didn’t focus on the problem, rather on the One who is able to solve the problem. In Psalm 63, David makes it abundantly clear where our focus should be (as do our Lord and Savior makes clear throughout the Gospels in the New Testament). It should be on God. God provides all that we’ll ever need. Retribution should not be our center of attention when someone wrongs us, “…<em>for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord</em>,” Romans 12:19, NKJV.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">We are to encourage ourselves in the Lord, our God, the One true and living God. We are to have a sincere longing for His presence. Sometimes I feel as if my words can’t express the gratitude I have for how God loves us so, but in essence that’s normal. If I had ten thousand tongues, I couldn’t thank Him enough. God’s continued grace and mercy deserves continued honor and praise! He is excellent, wonderful, majestic, and WORTHY to be praised.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Seeking a sincere relationship with Lord blesses a person beyond measure. When in the presence of the Lord, nothing else matter because you have all that you’ll ever need.</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-58591253597036817452010-10-25T14:41:00.001-04:002010-10-25T14:42:12.467-04:00God's Anointed<strong>Focal Scripture</strong>: 1 Samuel 24<br />
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“<em>Let the LORD judge between you and me, and let the LORD avenge me on you. But my hand shall not be against you. As the proverb of the ancients says, ‘Wickedness proceeds from the wicked.’ But my hand shall not be against you. After whom has the king of Israel come out? Whom do you pursue? A dead dog? A flea? Therefore let the LORD be judge, and judge between you and me, and see and plead my case, and deliver me out of your hand.” So it was, when David had finished speaking these words to Saul, that Saul said, “Is this your voice, my son David?” And Saul lifted up his voice and wept</em>,” 1 Samuel 24:12-16, NKJV.<br />
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Saul sought David’s life even though David had done no wrong to him. The Lord told David that He would deliver his enemy into his hands—and God did indeed deliver Saul into David’s hand. David could have taken Saul’s life (just as Saul had wanted to take from him), but David’s heart (smote) struck him unto compassion and mercy to not do so to Saul. Saul was God’s anointed. Although Saul had been consumed by jealousy (of David’s success on the battlefield) and had evil spirits come upon him, he was still chosen by God, at the peoples’ pleas, to be king.<br />
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“<em>Look, this day your eyes have seen that the LORD delivered you today into my hand in the cave, and someone urged me to kill you. But my eye spared you, and I said, ‘I will not stretch out my hand against my lord, for he is the Lord’s anointed</em>,’” 1 Samuel 24:10.<br />
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God will bring justice. Even though some leaders may be acting outside of God’s will—let the Lord handle it. David let Saul go, but God’s word was still true. He still delivered Saul into his hand, but compassion overtook David—that God forbade him to take Saul’s life. <br />
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David was revealed to Saul. Upon realizing that it was indeed David who could have taken his life that very day, Saul wept saying that David was more righteous than him. <em>“…for you have rewarded me with good, whereas I have rewarded you with evil</em>,” verse 17. This very act of compassion invoked humbleness in Saul for he also stated in verse 20, “<em>And now I know indeed that you shall surely be king, and that the kingdom of Israel shall be established in your hand</em>.” This came after multiple times of Saul seeking to kill David because of God’s favor on David’s life. <br />
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“<em><span style="color: red;">But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you,[a] that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust</span></em>,” Matthew 5:44-45, NKJV.<br />
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Let us overcome evil with good.Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-23452956471714542512010-10-18T10:00:00.001-04:002010-10-18T10:00:07.107-04:00Steadfast in the Faith<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>Scripture Focus</strong>: 1 Timothy 4:1-7, KJV</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><em><blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>1Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times <strong>some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; </strong></em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>2Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; </em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>3Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. </em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>4For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: </em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>5For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer. </em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>6If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast attained. </em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>7But refuse profane and old wives' fables, and exercise thyself rather unto godliness.</em> </div></blockquote></em><div style="text-align: justify;">Many make up things about the Word of God that is not scriptural. Don’t follow old wives’ tales. We must study the Word for ourselves, so that we may be spiritually edified. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-83265642963360590972010-10-13T17:15:00.002-04:002010-10-13T17:45:46.400-04:00Every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><strong>Philippians 1:11-19, KJV</strong></span></div><blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>11Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. </em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em></em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>12But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; </em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>13So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; </em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>14And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. </em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>15Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: </em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>16The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: </em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>17But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel. </em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>18What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached; and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>19For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, </em></div></blockquote><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">The apostle was a prisoner at <city w:st="on"><place w:st="on">Rome</place></city>; and to take off the offence of the cross, he shows the wisdom and goodness of God in his sufferings. These things made him known, where he would never have otherwise been known; and led some to inquire after the gospel. He suffered from false friends, as well as from enemies. How wretched the temper of those who preached Christ out of envy and contention, and to add affliction to the bonds that oppressed this best [righteous Christ follower] of men ...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;">Since our troubles may tend to the good of many, we ought to rejoice. Whatever turns to our salvation, is by the Spirit of Christ; and prayer is the appointed means of seeking for it. Our earnest expectation and hope should not be to be honored of men, or to escape the cross, but to be upheld amidst temptation, contempt, and affliction. Let us leave it to Christ, which way he will make us serviceable to his glory, whether by labor or suffering, by diligence or patience, by living to his honor in working for him, or dying to his honor in suffering for him. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0in 0in 10pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;"><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 12pt;"><strong>About this commentary: </strong>Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible is available in the Public Domain<strong>.</strong></span></div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-21034946255844905512010-10-04T17:46:00.002-04:002010-10-06T15:24:18.541-04:00Justification Alone, Through Faith in Jesus Christ<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">"<em>O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain</em>," Galatian 3:1-4, KJV.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
"<em>And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed</em>," Galatians 3:8, KJV.<br />
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"<em>But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith. And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them</em>," Galatians 3:11-12, KJV.<br />
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<strong>The Galatians reproved for departing from the great doctrine of justification alone, through faith in Christ.</strong></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Several things made the folly of the Galatian Christians worse. They had the doctrine of the cross preached, and the Lord's supper administered among them, in both which Christ crucified, and the nature of his sufferings, had been fully and clearly set forth. Had they been made partakers of the Holy Spirit, by the ministration of the law, or on account of any works done by them in obedience thereto? Was it not by their hearing and embracing the doctrine of faith in Christ alone for justification? Which of these had God owned with tokens of his favour and acceptance? It was not by the first, but the last. And those must be very unwise, who suffer themselves to be turned away from the ministry and doctrine which have been blessed to their spiritual advantage. Alas, that men should turn from the all-important doctrine of Christ crucified, to listen to useless distinctions, mere moral preaching, or wild fancies! The god of this world, by various men and means, has blinded men's eyes, lest they should learn to trust in a crucified Saviour. We may boldly demand where the fruits of the Holy Spirit are most evidently brought forth? whether among those who preach justification by the works of the law, or those who preach the doctrine of faith? Assuredly among the latter.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong>About this commentary</strong>:</div>Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible is available in the Public Domain.<br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">~<em><strong>We are saved by grace, not by works. We do works because we ARE saved, not to BECOME saved. Jesus Christ is enough. We must accept Him as Lord AND Savior with a desire to do His will. He said if we love Him, we'll keep His commandments, for He came not to do away with the law, but to complete it</strong></em>. ~</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-66683803905573162042010-09-27T14:48:00.001-04:002010-09-27T15:34:05.280-04:00The Truth Shall Make You Free<div style="text-align: justify;">“<em>Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. But whoso hath this world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth</em>,” 1 John 3:16-18, KJV.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The word love is a verb, it has action. It is not merely something we say or something we read on a piece of paper, rather something that we do. The Bible states that we are to love in deed and in truth. We ought not to be pretenders when we say “I have the love of Christ in me.” Having the love of Christ is to declare and display His truth and His character. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Love is often misinterpreted. Some view lust as love, but that is not love. 1 Corinthians 13 spells out exactly what love is. It is kind, humble, not easily provoked, and thinks no evil amongst other things. Who is the epitome of love? God is the epitome of love, God <em>is</em> love.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Over the past couple of years, I have aimed to show my love by telling others the truth behind sororities and fraternities. To share how Christians are taking oaths in unity with unbelievers. To actually call another person a brother or sister and the organization is okay with them belonging to any faith other than through Christ is not what God has called us to do. Jesus stated that He is the way, the truth, and the life, and no man comes to the Father except by Him (John 14:6). He also stated that if we love Him, we will obey His commandments (John 14:15). He commands us to not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers (2 Corinthians 6:14). </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is not my aim to alienate another brother or sister in Christ or to even turn away a potential Christian by this message. It is my motive, however, to tell the truth. There are moments that present challenges in doing so by backlash and condemnation, but I’m reminded by the Holy Spirit that there is no condemnation in Christ Jesus. He commands us to love. We are to love one another enough to tell each other the truth.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em><span style="color: red;">And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free</span></em>,” John 8:32, KJV.</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-34507495689899341642010-09-20T19:18:00.000-04:002010-09-20T19:18:02.194-04:00He Wants It All<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em>For great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised: he also is to be feared above all gods. For all the gods of the people are idols: but the LORD made the heavens. Glory and honour are in his presence; strength and gladness are in his place</em>,” 1 Chronicles 16:25-27, KJV.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The song by <em>Forever Jones</em> entitled “He Wants it All” is a shining example of how we are to live for God. It is so simple, yet many make the message of salvation so complicated. Once a person grasps the message of John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life,” it becomes so much easier to give back to the Lord whatever He wants … which basically is all of you, all of me. He wants it <strong>all</strong>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Consider what the Lord does for us from day to day. Many of us are blessed with the use of our limbs, our voices, our hearing, and our sight. How are we using those things that the Lord has given us? We can raise our hands up at a ball game, but not in reverence to God? We can speak gossip, but not of the goodness of the Lord? We can look at degrading videos and/or flicks, but not at a documentary, sermon, or message about Jesus Christ? If we put other things before God, where is the priority? If God isn’t first, then you are serving an idol.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here is a clip of the song “He Wants It All,” please pay close attention to the words.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><object height="385" width="480"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/dUMRqJCV9Q4?fs=1&hl=en_US&color1=0x5d1719&color2=0xcd311b"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/dUMRqJCV9Q4?fs=1&hl=en_US&color1=0x5d1719&color2=0xcd311b" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em>And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life. Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen</em>,” 1 John 5:20-21, KJV.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
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</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622221675472350003.post-84482856974355531022010-09-13T22:16:00.001-04:002010-09-13T22:16:44.015-04:00Trust in the Lord<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>It’s inevitable that man will fail you (whether by accident or on purpose), but through God all things are possible. He is the only constant in life that’s <strong>guaranteed</strong> to have our best interest at heart.</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">The devil comes to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). That’s the enemy’s primary focus. His fate is sealed and he does not care anything about us. In fact, I think he hates us. The slick, smooth tongue he used to convince the heavenly angels he has no problem using on us. Take note of their eternal home (Matthew 25:41).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">“<em>Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour</em>,” 1 Peter 5:8, KJV. Again, the enemy comes to steal, kill, and destroy. This is not limited to the financial areas in our lives; he ultimately wants to steal our faith in God. The enemy may begin with something small (sometimes the things we consider big) to ensnare us; but in reality the small things are money, careers, etc. Now, I am not saying that these things are unimportant, that is not my stance at all, what I am saying is that they are small compared to the big picture: Faith and trust in the Almighty God. The devil has a way of using those things we care about to manipulate us into turning against God. Some have even committed suicide over a job, a living situation, and even another person.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Meditate on what Jesus said, “<em><span style="color: red;">Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. And a man's foes shall be they of his own household. He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it</span></em>,” Matthew 10:34-39, KJV. If the enemy can get you to turn against God— he’s got you. Keep your faith! Fight the good fight of faith until the end, no matter what (1 Timothy 6:12, 2 Timothy 4:7).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Also, remember that this can be a test that turns into a testimony; if you have destruction or separation that falls upon the family, remember that you always have Jesus, you always have God. He will never leave us nor forsake us. “<em>But as for me, I trust in You, O LORD; I say, ‘You are my God</em>,’” Psalm 31:14, NKJV. Remember; trust in the Lord, not your circumstance.</div>Reneehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10043317958157768565noreply@blogger.com0