In my distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and rescued me. The Lord is for me, so I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? Yes, the Lord is for me; he will help me. I will look in triumph at those who hate me. It is better to trust the Lord than to put confidence in people. Psalms 118:5-8
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GOD KNOWS
I was driving home not too long ago and I felt this wave of sadness. I have heard so many bad news throughout the day that my joy was almost non-existent. At one point I felt physically ill to the extent that I had to pull over the side of the road to catch my breath. I recognized instantly that the devil was at work. The joy of the Lord is our strength. It shouldn’t matter what is going on around us we should have perfect peace on the inside. If we are not diligent the spirit of weariness will work its way into our lives especially these days through all the pressure and bad news that surrounds us. The devil will use whatever he can to take our focus off of God. We cannot let our guard down, not even for a second. GOD KNOWS it and He warns us about it. “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” 1 Peter 5:8
GOD HEARS
The devil is searching for whom he may devour….I like that. He cannot have every one of us, only those who let him. So when you’re feeling weary take actions, look up and keep focus on Christ. Call on His name and ask Him for help. I promise He hears you. “When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles. The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” Psalms 34:17-18. So trust God to take care of your troubles. Call on His name and HE WILL HEAR YOU. Keep you head up and keep moving. Fill your heart with godly thoughts. Do not get consumed by the circumstances of your life remember “You are from God, little children, and have overcome them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world “. 1 John 4:4
GOD DELIVERS
Frankly I don’t know where I would be today if God didn’t deliver. He initially delivers me from eternal death, and continues to do so every day. God delivered me today from myself, from my own negative thoughts. Deliverance is a major theme in the Bible. God makes a point to save those who fear me. Have you ever thought about David? Have you wonder how a young boy could possibly defeat Goliath, the giant? (1 Samuel 17) I have many times. Have you wondered how it was possible Daniel can spend an entire night in the lions’ den and survived? (Daniel 6)Have you wondered how time stood still and the moon stopped just long enough for Joshua to get his victory? (Joshua 10:13) I will tell you why: GOD DELIVERS. He has been delivering His children for thousands of years, He has not retired yet. He is the same yesterday, today and forever (Malachi 3:6).
When the enemy strikes, don’t panic, don’t even be weary. Do what David, Joshua and Daniel did. Look up to God and call on His name for He knows, He hears and delivers.
Praise the Lord!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Assessment Time
“The heart is more deceitful than all else and is desperately sick; who can understand it?” Jeremiah 17:9
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It is a well-known fact that we have periodical assessment of our relationships but when was the last time you assessed your relationship with Christ? This is the time of year that you should at least have a check up, get your heart examined. It is time for your spiritual assessment. It is time to examine your heart and soul. If you find it to be healthy, good job and keep it running right but your Heavenly Father is the greatest physician and He already given you a report on the heart. He finds it to be deceitful and sick. It is in such bad shape that you should die, but He sent His son Christ (who willingly came) to your rescue. He carried your illnesses on the cross in order to give life. (1 Peter 2:24). So if your report finds your hearts in poor working condition don’t panic, there is hope. God has a remedy for you. “I will give you a new heart” (Ezekiel 36:26). That’s right, He promised to give you a new one but you must recognize that the one you have is not doing so well; in fact, I is in dying shape. You must have your assessment. You have to be honest with yourself. No need to go to the doctor’s office and go through a series of test. You can give yourself a check up right now in the privacy of your home. You know what you have been doing all year long. And you know where your heart has been. You know if you put God first or if you have been too busy running after earthly possession. Something tells me that just like a natural physical, you are afraid to run your spiritual physical. You probably think that the condition is hopeless.
I am bearing good news this morning. “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”. (Romans 8:1). God is a loving Father indeed. His diagnosis is death, but He also provides a way to life, His son Jesus Christ. So where are you? In Christ? Or outside Christ? Free or under condemnation? You don't have to stay under condemnation. There is always room in Christ. You will not be turned down. Christ's invites every sinner to "Come! Enter! And trust! I will be your life, your righteousness, your pardon, because I have been your condemnation.”
So, let me ask you again, where are you? Has the devil made you believe that it is too late and there’s no use turning your life around? Must I remind you that the devil is a liar? It is NEVER TOO LATE. Choose Christ. He is the remedy for a diseased, dying heart. Today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2). Get your heart right. Say “yes” to Christ.
Praise the Lord!
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It is a well-known fact that we have periodical assessment of our relationships but when was the last time you assessed your relationship with Christ? This is the time of year that you should at least have a check up, get your heart examined. It is time for your spiritual assessment. It is time to examine your heart and soul. If you find it to be healthy, good job and keep it running right but your Heavenly Father is the greatest physician and He already given you a report on the heart. He finds it to be deceitful and sick. It is in such bad shape that you should die, but He sent His son Christ (who willingly came) to your rescue. He carried your illnesses on the cross in order to give life. (1 Peter 2:24). So if your report finds your hearts in poor working condition don’t panic, there is hope. God has a remedy for you. “I will give you a new heart” (Ezekiel 36:26). That’s right, He promised to give you a new one but you must recognize that the one you have is not doing so well; in fact, I is in dying shape. You must have your assessment. You have to be honest with yourself. No need to go to the doctor’s office and go through a series of test. You can give yourself a check up right now in the privacy of your home. You know what you have been doing all year long. And you know where your heart has been. You know if you put God first or if you have been too busy running after earthly possession. Something tells me that just like a natural physical, you are afraid to run your spiritual physical. You probably think that the condition is hopeless.
I am bearing good news this morning. “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus”. (Romans 8:1). God is a loving Father indeed. His diagnosis is death, but He also provides a way to life, His son Jesus Christ. So where are you? In Christ? Or outside Christ? Free or under condemnation? You don't have to stay under condemnation. There is always room in Christ. You will not be turned down. Christ's invites every sinner to "Come! Enter! And trust! I will be your life, your righteousness, your pardon, because I have been your condemnation.”
So, let me ask you again, where are you? Has the devil made you believe that it is too late and there’s no use turning your life around? Must I remind you that the devil is a liar? It is NEVER TOO LATE. Choose Christ. He is the remedy for a diseased, dying heart. Today is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2). Get your heart right. Say “yes” to Christ.
Praise the Lord!
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Our Great God!
Our Great God!
For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. Romans 10:13
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Why do we panic? Problems are never as big as they seem, at least, not if you are a believer. If you believe that you serve a God that is bigger than your circumstances than when trouble comes, you would relax, do the things you can do, and trust Him to do the things you cannot do. Some of us worry easily, probably due to pass experiences. It takes so much energy to worry; whereas, it is easy to relax and let God. Why can't we trust God? Why do we carry our burdens? I don't know about you, but I notice that I am a nervous wreck when I am not reading the Word of God. Whenever my spiritual life is shaky, I get in trouble. I become fearful, I worry, I panic and I make myself literally sick. As I get older, I realize that life's problems are inevitable, but there are moments of triumphs as well. I needed to find a way to cope and move forward in order to be the person God intended me to become, and the person He created me to be. Someone I love use to say that eventually everything works out and worrying is futile. If I only I listened!
I have encountered various challenges in my life. I experiences the loss of a parent at an early age, I have experienced numerous academic, social and professional rejections, I battled depression, and some physical ailments but I recently noticed that the difficulties vary but the end results always the same: God has always proven Himself to be faithful and my worries, my efforts and stressing never productive. Don't get me wrong, I always brought everything to the Lord in prayers. I believed that God was real but what I did not realized for a long time was the fact that I trusted myself more than I trusted Him. I trusted my own ability. How silly was that! I cannot do anything without God. My favorite biblical quote has always been "I can do all things through Christ" Philippians 4:13 and yet I have always tried to do it alone until predictable failure then and only then I run to God. My pride always get in the way of my intimate relationship with God, but God would never let me have it my way. He loves me way too much for that. I wish I learned to relax and let God a long time ago and I am sure I would have had a different life much sooner. A peaceful life and a relationship with God based on trust. I do not want the children in my life to struggle with similar issues that is why I am teaching them to trust God. I always pray with them each and every time they bring up an issue, even if it minor or about school, a sibling, a teacher, a friend, a gift they desire or a medication they have to take. I always tell them that God is the healer and not the pill. I am teaching them early that God is bigger than anything they can face and imagine and I hope they listen. I hope that God is their first resort and not their last. Children learn more from our behavior than by our words. I am now practicing what I preach.
Are you jumpy or calm? Do you trust God to help you deal with the challenges of your life? Do you get up and go out the door or do you spend time with God in meditation? Do you panic when you cannot make the mortgage payment? Do you get depressed when you are ill? Do you go crazy when you lose a job? The children are observing. You may not notice but you are shaping their character and their faith. You have a responsibility to guide them right and help then transition to adulthood as confident, Bible believing and God trusting individuals. Don't magnify your problems in their presence or otherwise, but magnify God's power and ability to work things out in your favor; After all, it is a promise of God according to Romans 8:28. Teach the children that they can be anything and they can beat anything for when they are weak, God is strong. Teach them to live with, peace, power and faith in God. Magnify God for nothing is impossible to Him.
Praise the Lord!
Monday, December 27, 2010
Jesus is Lord!
“The person who loves his father or mother more than me is not worthy of me. The person who loves a son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” Matthew 10:37
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If you have conviction that then move to the next level of commitment in your life that reflects His Lordship. Start confessing that He is Lord. “If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9) To believe and confess that Jesus is Lord means that you agree with God and consequently will tell others about Him without shame. Would like to have a successful 2008? Start proclaiming the Word to and in the world and declare the Lordship of Christ. “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19) It is a responsibility that must be taken seriously. Start the New Year right. Rededicate your life to Christ. Submit your relationships, your family and your business to Christ. Embrace your mission and be blessed.
Praise the Lord!
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If you have conviction that then move to the next level of commitment in your life that reflects His Lordship. Start confessing that He is Lord. “If you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9) To believe and confess that Jesus is Lord means that you agree with God and consequently will tell others about Him without shame. Would like to have a successful 2008? Start proclaiming the Word to and in the world and declare the Lordship of Christ. “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28:19) It is a responsibility that must be taken seriously. Start the New Year right. Rededicate your life to Christ. Submit your relationships, your family and your business to Christ. Embrace your mission and be blessed.
Praise the Lord!
Friday, December 24, 2010
What Children Think of Christmas?
Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
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What 14 children have to say about Christmas
Ferna-Marie 7 years old ---Jesus Came to earth to save us
Keren… 13 years old- God sent a gift (Jesus)
Lynn-Iris— 12 years old- Family gathering around and the gift of a child (Jesus)
Gregory- 10 years old: Family and friends gathering together and sharing.
Patricia 9 years old -Jesus- Christmas is about Jesus
Jimmy-Lee- 11 years old Jesus great sacrifice for humanity best gift ever.
Jolie-Luna- 5 years old -Jesus is a gift to people
Frederick 3 years old-love- He kept repeating Jesus is love-I love Christmas!
Jayden 3 years old - Jesus birthday!
Sarah 9- years- Jesus came to save us.
Rachel 7- Jesus is King of my heart
Esther 4- Jesus is my friend.
......And Christmas reminds me of the limitless power of God. Through the blood sacrifice (of Jesus, I am now saved, healed, made whole) Jesus is the best gift I have ever received.
Praised the Lord!
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Does your Child Have a Biblical World View 2?
Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6
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“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” Deuteronomy 4:9
Education, upbringing, and the culture they live in, the books they read, the media and movies they watch, and other cultural influences form children’s worldview. Parents have to be vigilant and pay attention to what their children are exposed to.
Let’s face it, all parents want to train their children to be delightful, smart funny and just good kids, but the truth of the matter is that most parents forget that the purpose of training is to plant the soil of child's heart with an uncompromising love of God in order for them to seek him for themselves and be able to build a relationship that comes from the heart. The Bible refers to the heart as the place where good, bad, evil behavior come from and what we teach the children either by words or actions will determine whether he/she will bring forth good or evil.
Children cannot develop good behavior and develop a biblical worldview unless they understand that God exists (Heb. 11:6) and that He is the standard by which we measure everything else. God created everything that exists (Gen.1: 1) and he holds everything (Col. 1:17). We believe the Bible is God's divinely breathed/inspired Word, revealed to mankind (2 Tim. 3:16). We believe that the fullness of God came to earth and lived in the human body of Jesus Christ of (Col. 1:19). We believe that mankind rebel against God in the Garden of Eden and because of that one act of rebellion, sin and death entered the world (Rom. 5:12-14). We believe that believing in (John 3:15-19, 5:24), and obeying (Luke 8:21, John 3:20, John 14:21, 23-24), Jesus Christ is the only way to have eternal life or to be reunited with God (Acts 4:10-12). And salvation is a free gift (Romans 6:23) from God that cannot be earned because Jesus completed the work at Calvary (John 19:30). There will be a judgment day (Hebrews 9:27, Matthew 12:36 and Revelation 13:8).
Children need basic understanding of God's Word and the principles it teaches in order to have a biblical worldview. It is the responsibility of parents and all believers to embrace a Christian worldview in order to teach the children by words and examples. Confusion and division are rampant in our society. Our children need guidance. People who are anti-God are crushing family values that were once held in regards by our ancestors and unless our children receive sound teaching, they will not be able to stand firm when temptations come and they will not have biblical worldview.
Parents, be vigilant! teach your children well and expose them to what is godly and be blessed.
Praise the Lord!
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“Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.” Deuteronomy 4:9
Education, upbringing, and the culture they live in, the books they read, the media and movies they watch, and other cultural influences form children’s worldview. Parents have to be vigilant and pay attention to what their children are exposed to.
Let’s face it, all parents want to train their children to be delightful, smart funny and just good kids, but the truth of the matter is that most parents forget that the purpose of training is to plant the soil of child's heart with an uncompromising love of God in order for them to seek him for themselves and be able to build a relationship that comes from the heart. The Bible refers to the heart as the place where good, bad, evil behavior come from and what we teach the children either by words or actions will determine whether he/she will bring forth good or evil.
Children cannot develop good behavior and develop a biblical worldview unless they understand that God exists (Heb. 11:6) and that He is the standard by which we measure everything else. God created everything that exists (Gen.1: 1) and he holds everything (Col. 1:17). We believe the Bible is God's divinely breathed/inspired Word, revealed to mankind (2 Tim. 3:16). We believe that the fullness of God came to earth and lived in the human body of Jesus Christ of (Col. 1:19). We believe that mankind rebel against God in the Garden of Eden and because of that one act of rebellion, sin and death entered the world (Rom. 5:12-14). We believe that believing in (John 3:15-19, 5:24), and obeying (Luke 8:21, John 3:20, John 14:21, 23-24), Jesus Christ is the only way to have eternal life or to be reunited with God (Acts 4:10-12). And salvation is a free gift (Romans 6:23) from God that cannot be earned because Jesus completed the work at Calvary (John 19:30). There will be a judgment day (Hebrews 9:27, Matthew 12:36 and Revelation 13:8).
Children need basic understanding of God's Word and the principles it teaches in order to have a biblical worldview. It is the responsibility of parents and all believers to embrace a Christian worldview in order to teach the children by words and examples. Confusion and division are rampant in our society. Our children need guidance. People who are anti-God are crushing family values that were once held in regards by our ancestors and unless our children receive sound teaching, they will not be able to stand firm when temptations come and they will not have biblical worldview.
Parents, be vigilant! teach your children well and expose them to what is godly and be blessed.
Praise the Lord!
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Does your Child Have a Biblical World View?
Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it. Proverbs 22:6
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What is a worldview? It is the basis from which people make sense of life and the world (how they see things). People who don’t know God believe that the material world as seen on television, books, Internet and other media is all that exists and all that living is about; whereas a person with a biblical world view knows that the primary reason of his existence is to love, serve, honor and glorify God.
A recent nationwide survey was completed and the results were astonishing! It was determined that only 4 percent of Americans had a "biblical" worldview and only nine percent of professing Christians had a biblical worldview. The stunning statistics worry me. Listen, if the adults’ percentage is so low, How about the children? The Bible instructs us to teach the children the way of the Lord at an early age. What are you doing as a parent? I will ask you again: does your child have a biblical worldview? Does your child understand that “live, love, laugh” is not the purpose of life?
I am not entirely surprised by the statistics considering that parents don’t bring their children to church. I often see parents in church parking lot and when asked about the children, most would say that either they wanted to sleep in or playing video game or whatever the excuse may be at the time. Some children may think that God is for the adults or people who are old and about to die. They may even believe that their youth is about living life to the fullest. But, can anyone live life to the fullest without knowing the purpose of life? Do your children know that life as lived by the Kardashians, and other reality shows should not be used as blueprint of their lives? The Bible offers clear warning concerning the believer’s way of life: "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" (Romans 12:2).
A biblical worldview is based on the uncompromising word of God. Do you read the Bible? Do you read the Bible to your children? Do you allow the truth found in the Bible to be the basis and the foundation on which you build your family life? Can you please take a moment to read the 12 questions below?
1) Is God real?
2) Is Satan real or a made up?
3)Is God the omniscient, omnipotent and omnipresent creator of the world?
4) Is Jesus Christ the Son of God came, died, resurrected and ascended to heaven and one day will come back?
5) Did Jesus Christ live a sin free life?
6) Is there any other way to get to heaven but through Jesus Christ?
7) Is the Bible God or man inspired?
8) Do absolute moral truths exist?
9) Is salvation a gift from God that cannot be earned?
10) Once saved can one ever lose his/her salvation?
11) Does a Christian have a mandate to share his/her faith in Christ with other people?
12) Will there really be a judgment day and should you be concern about hell and heaven?
Do your children know the answers to the above questions? Do you know the answer to those questions? You should at least recognize where your family stands and if your family is not where it should be, it is your responsibility to do something about it quickly. The good news is that “Today is the day of salvation” 2 Corinthians 6:2
As we continue the study on children this week, we will reveal a few simple steps that can help get your family on track and gain a biblical worldview.
Let us pray: And father how grateful we are for your love. Thank you for showing us the truth about you. We thank you for constantly watching over our every move. We ask in the name of Jesus your son, to help us shape our families in ways that are pleasing to you. Thank you for a second chance to do it right. We want to be like you, for only you are Holy, only you are worthy and only you are God.
Praise the Lord!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Let's Talk True Love
How Does It Manifest?
The passion of my soul's desire is for the house of the Lord; my heart and my flesh are crying out for the living God. Psalms 84:2
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Those who love each other cannot spend much time a part. Lovers direct all conversations to their beloved. They don’t waste any opportunity to be together. They are miserable apart and when together their affectation is apparent to anyone with eyes to see. People can recognize lovers even when they’re trying to hide it. They are always ready to run home when they are forced to be away even for a little while. When the loved one speaks, the lover listens with rapt attention to each other’s every word; they marvel at everything the beloved says, however ridiculous it may be or sound. People who love truly don’t doubt they believe without questions. Whatever sacrifice is needed to be together, they are willing to make it. People in love will give to the limit of their capacity because love open doors of possibilities. People have time for little else when in love. A true lover tries not to hurt his/her love one because he will also suffer, their hearts are connected. They have a true concord of hearts. They don’t let anything or anyone get in between them. They face all situations together (as a strong team). They don’t take any chances going against each other’s will by fear of causing each other unnecessary heartaches. Love also usually causes a longing to be alone together, and to keep all negative influences away from the circle and that is why newly weds often go in seclusion in an away place (called honeymoon).
When was the las time you spend quality time with God? You confess your love, you go to church and that is about it. You don’t long for His presence unless you are in trouble. Do you really love God? How come all of your thoughts don’t direct to Him? How come your spiritual life is non existent? I will give you credit for being religious but where is your spirituality? How come it is not apparent to anyone? It is true that you love for God is private, but God didn’t keep His love for you a secret. His Son Jesus died a public and humiliating death on a cross between two criminals just for you. How much attention do you pay to the word of the one you claim to love? Why is it so easy for you to break His commandments and go against His will? Why is it so hard for you to repent when you act in ways that grieve His heart? Why does it take so long to come home after you have been away for a while? In typical loving relationship, there is always a celebration when the lover who was away finally comes home. The parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 describes the celebration awaiting those who decide to come back home, in the arms of the Loving Heavenly Father. You have nothing to fear, you can come home anytime, why not today? You need to go on your honeymoon with God to re-discover His love and to make the appropriate decision: are you going to serve Him with all of your heart and represent Him well in all that you do or are you going to continue to slack off?
Go on your honeymoon with God and let your heart and soul discover the passion, the fire that you felt during the days following your salvation. God has not changed He still loves you unconditionally. Will you embrace His love? Will you finally come home? I pray that you find the courage to do so.
Praise the Lord!
The passion of my soul's desire is for the house of the Lord; my heart and my flesh are crying out for the living God. Psalms 84:2
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Those who love each other cannot spend much time a part. Lovers direct all conversations to their beloved. They don’t waste any opportunity to be together. They are miserable apart and when together their affectation is apparent to anyone with eyes to see. People can recognize lovers even when they’re trying to hide it. They are always ready to run home when they are forced to be away even for a little while. When the loved one speaks, the lover listens with rapt attention to each other’s every word; they marvel at everything the beloved says, however ridiculous it may be or sound. People who love truly don’t doubt they believe without questions. Whatever sacrifice is needed to be together, they are willing to make it. People in love will give to the limit of their capacity because love open doors of possibilities. People have time for little else when in love. A true lover tries not to hurt his/her love one because he will also suffer, their hearts are connected. They have a true concord of hearts. They don’t let anything or anyone get in between them. They face all situations together (as a strong team). They don’t take any chances going against each other’s will by fear of causing each other unnecessary heartaches. Love also usually causes a longing to be alone together, and to keep all negative influences away from the circle and that is why newly weds often go in seclusion in an away place (called honeymoon).
When was the las time you spend quality time with God? You confess your love, you go to church and that is about it. You don’t long for His presence unless you are in trouble. Do you really love God? How come all of your thoughts don’t direct to Him? How come your spiritual life is non existent? I will give you credit for being religious but where is your spirituality? How come it is not apparent to anyone? It is true that you love for God is private, but God didn’t keep His love for you a secret. His Son Jesus died a public and humiliating death on a cross between two criminals just for you. How much attention do you pay to the word of the one you claim to love? Why is it so easy for you to break His commandments and go against His will? Why is it so hard for you to repent when you act in ways that grieve His heart? Why does it take so long to come home after you have been away for a while? In typical loving relationship, there is always a celebration when the lover who was away finally comes home. The parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 describes the celebration awaiting those who decide to come back home, in the arms of the Loving Heavenly Father. You have nothing to fear, you can come home anytime, why not today? You need to go on your honeymoon with God to re-discover His love and to make the appropriate decision: are you going to serve Him with all of your heart and represent Him well in all that you do or are you going to continue to slack off?
Go on your honeymoon with God and let your heart and soul discover the passion, the fire that you felt during the days following your salvation. God has not changed He still loves you unconditionally. Will you embrace His love? Will you finally come home? I pray that you find the courage to do so.
Praise the Lord!
Friday, December 17, 2010
God is my Refuge and my Fortress
I lift up my eyes to the mountains, where does my help come from. My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD watches over you the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121
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Having grown up in church and raised by a praying mother, I must have memorized this psalm when I was 2 or 3 years old. For whatever reason, I loved it. Perhaps, it was the way my mother joy seemed to be restored each every time she reads or perhaps the Holy Spirit was preparing me for my own destiny but the above scripture has always been special to me. Although I prayed these words numerous times over the years, it would take me many years to get a grasp on what it means to say the Lord is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. As look back at the experiences of my life to include sickness, lack, disease, pain, disappointments, heartbreaks and loneliness, there is no reason why I should still be standing but God just won’t give up on me. He simply refused to let me give up on myself.
As I take a look at the past year alone, I can’t help comparing where I was last year to where I am now, I can indeed say the author of psalm 144: 2 knows a thing or two about God. He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me. Even when my stubbornness got me in many troubles, God always revealed himself to be faithful and I know now that He will continue to show his faithfulness in my life. Having God as fortress means that I don’t have to keep running around looking for help in all the wrong places anymore. I wish there was a way to capture on film the majesty and massiveness of the work that God has done in my life, but believe it when I tell you that our heavenly father cares deeply, watches over us actively, takes care of us faithfully, and love us unconditionally. When cornered with nowhere to turn, come boldly to the throne of grace, let him be your fortress, your rock, and your refuge and you will be blessed.
Praise the Lord!
www.bibletourwithjolne.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
Having grown up in church and raised by a praying mother, I must have memorized this psalm when I was 2 or 3 years old. For whatever reason, I loved it. Perhaps, it was the way my mother joy seemed to be restored each every time she reads or perhaps the Holy Spirit was preparing me for my own destiny but the above scripture has always been special to me. Although I prayed these words numerous times over the years, it would take me many years to get a grasp on what it means to say the Lord is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. As look back at the experiences of my life to include sickness, lack, disease, pain, disappointments, heartbreaks and loneliness, there is no reason why I should still be standing but God just won’t give up on me. He simply refused to let me give up on myself.
As I take a look at the past year alone, I can’t help comparing where I was last year to where I am now, I can indeed say the author of psalm 144: 2 knows a thing or two about God. He is my loving God and my fortress, my stronghold and my deliverer, my shield, in whom I take refuge, who subdues peoples under me. Even when my stubbornness got me in many troubles, God always revealed himself to be faithful and I know now that He will continue to show his faithfulness in my life. Having God as fortress means that I don’t have to keep running around looking for help in all the wrong places anymore. I wish there was a way to capture on film the majesty and massiveness of the work that God has done in my life, but believe it when I tell you that our heavenly father cares deeply, watches over us actively, takes care of us faithfully, and love us unconditionally. When cornered with nowhere to turn, come boldly to the throne of grace, let him be your fortress, your rock, and your refuge and you will be blessed.
Praise the Lord!
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Have Peace!
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
First and foremost, each and every Christian must completely acknowledge is that the Holy Bible is truly the inspired and infallible, and uncompromising Word of God. Jesus says: you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free. “ However, you first have to know what the truth is before the truth can start to work to set you free. This is probably the reason why David said we must meditate on the words of God (in the Bible) so we can find out what their true meaning is and how these truths can apply to us. Meditating on the Bible means to think truly about it, to chew on each word of each passage, to try and figure out what the meaning of the words is all about. God loves us so much but we can fall in love with him unless we know Him. God knows everything about each one of us (Psalm 139) but we do not know everything about Him or His Trinity. Friend if you really want to get to know God, you would read HIS Word.
The word of God tells us in Hosea that people perish due to ignorance and lack of knowledge. Renewing our minds daily with the word of God is the key to abolishing that ignorance. I don’t know about you but when I was a baby Christian, I noticed that all my troubles started with fear and my fears were the exact results of my ignorance when it comes to the word of God and what the word say about the situation I was facing. I finally realized that when we grab on to the Word of God during times of agitation, it would settle our hearts and calm our souls. Jesus commands to not be afraid for He gives us His peace. What other assurance do we need? Some situations are rough and others are plain and simple intolerable. I get that, but no matter the trials, remember that God is bigger. He is more powerful. He cannot fail and that victory is yours. Do not let you heart be troubled. Take refuge in the Word of God for it is life. When the Word of God acts, God acts. When the Word of God delivers, God delivers. When the Word of God heals, God heals. God and The Word are one. Hebrews 4:12-13 tells us three things that occur we read Word: “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
God can see all things and nothing is hidden from His eyes, all your issues (fears, doubt, pain, hurt, illness, disappointments) are wide open and the things you don’t even want to face are before him. Why would you fear? God loves you enough to have sent, Jesus Christ, His son to die for you and to replace your shortcomings and your dead areas with His resurrection power. Praise the Lord! You don’t have to fear another day. You don’t have to worry. It is going to be just fine. Read the word of God. Let it grow in your heart and mind and be blessed!
Praise the Lord!
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
First and foremost, each and every Christian must completely acknowledge is that the Holy Bible is truly the inspired and infallible, and uncompromising Word of God. Jesus says: you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free. “ However, you first have to know what the truth is before the truth can start to work to set you free. This is probably the reason why David said we must meditate on the words of God (in the Bible) so we can find out what their true meaning is and how these truths can apply to us. Meditating on the Bible means to think truly about it, to chew on each word of each passage, to try and figure out what the meaning of the words is all about. God loves us so much but we can fall in love with him unless we know Him. God knows everything about each one of us (Psalm 139) but we do not know everything about Him or His Trinity. Friend if you really want to get to know God, you would read HIS Word.
The word of God tells us in Hosea that people perish due to ignorance and lack of knowledge. Renewing our minds daily with the word of God is the key to abolishing that ignorance. I don’t know about you but when I was a baby Christian, I noticed that all my troubles started with fear and my fears were the exact results of my ignorance when it comes to the word of God and what the word say about the situation I was facing. I finally realized that when we grab on to the Word of God during times of agitation, it would settle our hearts and calm our souls. Jesus commands to not be afraid for He gives us His peace. What other assurance do we need? Some situations are rough and others are plain and simple intolerable. I get that, but no matter the trials, remember that God is bigger. He is more powerful. He cannot fail and that victory is yours. Do not let you heart be troubled. Take refuge in the Word of God for it is life. When the Word of God acts, God acts. When the Word of God delivers, God delivers. When the Word of God heals, God heals. God and The Word are one. Hebrews 4:12-13 tells us three things that occur we read Word: “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
God can see all things and nothing is hidden from His eyes, all your issues (fears, doubt, pain, hurt, illness, disappointments) are wide open and the things you don’t even want to face are before him. Why would you fear? God loves you enough to have sent, Jesus Christ, His son to die for you and to replace your shortcomings and your dead areas with His resurrection power. Praise the Lord! You don’t have to fear another day. You don’t have to worry. It is going to be just fine. Read the word of God. Let it grow in your heart and mind and be blessed!
Praise the Lord!
Monday, December 13, 2010
Weapons of our Warfare
The Word of God (#1)
My son, pay attention to my words, Open your ears to what I say. Do not let them depart from your sight; Keep them in the midst of your heart, because they are life to those who find them and they heal the whole body. Proverbs 4:20-22
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
God's Word is the highest authority. When you place it higher than anything else, your success in life is guaranteed. God is able to keep you from falling into sin but you must submit to His Word. You have to trust God and allow Him to protect you and keep you out of trouble. You have to do your part. Over and over God commands us to read and meditate, He knew that there would be terrible time ahead and the word of God is our strength. The only sure way to rebuke the devil is with the word of God. He was also tempted. Jesus overcame this temptation. He did not yield to Satan’s subtle deception. Jesus responded with God’s Word. The way to fight Satan, when he speaks to us and tempts us in our thoughts, through our flesh, or in our emotions, is by using God’s Word. Jesus said, it is written, THAT MAN SHALL NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE, BUT BY EVERY WORD OF GOD (Luke 4:4). Quoting God's Word to Satan caused him to cease this temptation and go on to another. His Word tells every born-again Christian how to live. We are to live by the word of God. We are to live by the Bible. Jesus is our example, consider, He WAS IN ALL POINTS TEMPTED/TESTED LIKE AS WE ARE, YET WITHOUT SIN (Heb 4:15) . You can also do it: “I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).
People say that it is too hard to resist temptation, and I say you can do this. Jesus was tempted while He was on the cross. Satan asked Him to (through one of the thief) come down from the cross and people would believe if he’d do so. Jesus came so that people would believe in Him. How tempting was that! And what a horrifying thought! If He escaped the cross both you and I would be lost forever. Thank God no temptation could move Jesus to disobey the will of His Father in heaven. In order to be effective in our warfare, you and I must know how to use the Word effectively. It is when, (through) much study and meditation on the Word of God, that word comes to live in us, and consume our thoughts, dwell in our heart, that we will be strong in the Lord. Jesus promised that if we abide in Him, and His Word abides in us, we will ask what we desire, and it will be done for us (John 15:7). This will include victory over Satan tricks.
When you are battling temptation, you can wisely choose to use the weapon God has given you. That weapon is His Word. He has given us a whole arsenal of weapons in His Word. God’s Word says His weapons are Mighty to the pulling down of Strongholds. He has given us a Sword of the spirit (His Word) A Shield of faith (His Word) The Name and the Blood of Jesus, and Authority over the devil.
Praise the Lord!
My son, pay attention to my words, Open your ears to what I say. Do not let them depart from your sight; Keep them in the midst of your heart, because they are life to those who find them and they heal the whole body. Proverbs 4:20-22
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
God's Word is the highest authority. When you place it higher than anything else, your success in life is guaranteed. God is able to keep you from falling into sin but you must submit to His Word. You have to trust God and allow Him to protect you and keep you out of trouble. You have to do your part. Over and over God commands us to read and meditate, He knew that there would be terrible time ahead and the word of God is our strength. The only sure way to rebuke the devil is with the word of God. He was also tempted. Jesus overcame this temptation. He did not yield to Satan’s subtle deception. Jesus responded with God’s Word. The way to fight Satan, when he speaks to us and tempts us in our thoughts, through our flesh, or in our emotions, is by using God’s Word. Jesus said, it is written, THAT MAN SHALL NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE, BUT BY EVERY WORD OF GOD (Luke 4:4). Quoting God's Word to Satan caused him to cease this temptation and go on to another. His Word tells every born-again Christian how to live. We are to live by the word of God. We are to live by the Bible. Jesus is our example, consider, He WAS IN ALL POINTS TEMPTED/TESTED LIKE AS WE ARE, YET WITHOUT SIN (Heb 4:15) . You can also do it: “I can do everything through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).
People say that it is too hard to resist temptation, and I say you can do this. Jesus was tempted while He was on the cross. Satan asked Him to (through one of the thief) come down from the cross and people would believe if he’d do so. Jesus came so that people would believe in Him. How tempting was that! And what a horrifying thought! If He escaped the cross both you and I would be lost forever. Thank God no temptation could move Jesus to disobey the will of His Father in heaven. In order to be effective in our warfare, you and I must know how to use the Word effectively. It is when, (through) much study and meditation on the Word of God, that word comes to live in us, and consume our thoughts, dwell in our heart, that we will be strong in the Lord. Jesus promised that if we abide in Him, and His Word abides in us, we will ask what we desire, and it will be done for us (John 15:7). This will include victory over Satan tricks.
When you are battling temptation, you can wisely choose to use the weapon God has given you. That weapon is His Word. He has given us a whole arsenal of weapons in His Word. God’s Word says His weapons are Mighty to the pulling down of Strongholds. He has given us a Sword of the spirit (His Word) A Shield of faith (His Word) The Name and the Blood of Jesus, and Authority over the devil.
Praise the Lord!
Friday, December 10, 2010
No Doubt and No Fear
Today's Devotion (12/10/2010) says,
Don't Give up and Trust the Lord.
Those who trust in the Lord are as secure as Mount Zion; they will not be defeated but will endure forever. As the mountains surround and protect Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds and protects his people, both now and forever. Psalm 125:1-2
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www,bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.com
What does it mean to trust in the Lord? It is simply to rely completely to His will knowing (having no doubts) that His plan for "your" life is a good one regardless of what you are going through at this moment; therefore, no matter what circumstances you're facing, remain calm because there is no worry, no doubt and no fear in trust. When we really trust God, assurance/confidence and peace replace fear. There is no wondering and no complaining in trust, so when you are going through the ups and down of living, you have to pray and remain calm knowing undoubtedly that help is the way. A man of God once told me that trust is the little voice that whispers to your soul that it going to work out fine regardless of what it looks like, regardless what the doctors are saying, regardless what your banker is saying and regardless of the trend analysis or the statistics prove, you need to let that little voice speak louder than and you have to learn to recognize it.
I often wonder why is it so difficult for Christians to trust the Lord when trusting the wrong people comes so naturally. Why can't they trust the maker? Could it be because they feel unworthy of such love? God doesn't love you because you are perfect. He loved you when you were lost, hell bound. That is why He sent His son Jesus Christ to carry your sicknesses, fear and lack to the cross and die for your transgressions in order for you to inherit eternal life. God loves you despite who you are. It does not matter what you have done, where you are right now. He still loves "you". He cares about your actual situation. He wants to bring the help you need, if you'd just trust Him and stop worrying. Can you do that? Will you do that?
Let us pray:
Loving father who's always watching over me, I thank you for your unconditional love and your compassion. I thank you for loving me when I don't even understand how to love myself. My heart is finally receptive and I accept your love. I thank you for your promise of never leaving me alone. I love you father God and I surrender my being, my destiny to your command. Feel free to invade my privacy at your convenience and I will never worry as long as you are still my loving Father and I your precious child. Help me know you better each day. I repent for ever doubting your love in the past. Help me be an instrument of your love so I will not cause pain to others. In Jesus mighty name, approve my humble prayer. Amen.
Praise the Lord!
Don't Give up and Trust the Lord.
Those who trust in the Lord are as secure as Mount Zion; they will not be defeated but will endure forever. As the mountains surround and protect Jerusalem, so the Lord surrounds and protects his people, both now and forever. Psalm 125:1-2
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www,bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.com
What does it mean to trust in the Lord? It is simply to rely completely to His will knowing (having no doubts) that His plan for "your" life is a good one regardless of what you are going through at this moment; therefore, no matter what circumstances you're facing, remain calm because there is no worry, no doubt and no fear in trust. When we really trust God, assurance/confidence and peace replace fear. There is no wondering and no complaining in trust, so when you are going through the ups and down of living, you have to pray and remain calm knowing undoubtedly that help is the way. A man of God once told me that trust is the little voice that whispers to your soul that it going to work out fine regardless of what it looks like, regardless what the doctors are saying, regardless what your banker is saying and regardless of the trend analysis or the statistics prove, you need to let that little voice speak louder than and you have to learn to recognize it.
I often wonder why is it so difficult for Christians to trust the Lord when trusting the wrong people comes so naturally. Why can't they trust the maker? Could it be because they feel unworthy of such love? God doesn't love you because you are perfect. He loved you when you were lost, hell bound. That is why He sent His son Jesus Christ to carry your sicknesses, fear and lack to the cross and die for your transgressions in order for you to inherit eternal life. God loves you despite who you are. It does not matter what you have done, where you are right now. He still loves "you". He cares about your actual situation. He wants to bring the help you need, if you'd just trust Him and stop worrying. Can you do that? Will you do that?
Let us pray:
Loving father who's always watching over me, I thank you for your unconditional love and your compassion. I thank you for loving me when I don't even understand how to love myself. My heart is finally receptive and I accept your love. I thank you for your promise of never leaving me alone. I love you father God and I surrender my being, my destiny to your command. Feel free to invade my privacy at your convenience and I will never worry as long as you are still my loving Father and I your precious child. Help me know you better each day. I repent for ever doubting your love in the past. Help me be an instrument of your love so I will not cause pain to others. In Jesus mighty name, approve my humble prayer. Amen.
Praise the Lord!
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Intimate Friend
True Friend
“No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you”. John 15:15-16
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
For many years I longed for deep friendships. It was quite embarrassing to discover that after a certain amount of years on this earth, I knew people in 5 continents and yet I had no real, intimate friends. I would meet people and instantly feel connected to them and I would offer them my friendship with all the benefits that come with it but over and over I’d get disappointed. I wasn’t getting the commitment I expected in return. I set expectations that no one could ever meet and as a result I grew up isolated, guarded and secretive. I was surrounded by people, but was lonely inside. Over the years I randomly trusted people who appeared to have wanted a deep friendship with me just to face the painful realization that they did not know how to give what I was so desperately searching for at the time.
I was reading the above scripture one night when I finally understood its true meaning. I have read it many times before but that night I realized that true friendship such as the one I was looking for can only come from God. The loneliness that I grew up with could only be filled by the unconditional love of God. It was unfair to expect earthly friendships to fill needs that God strategically created us with for the purpose of filling Himself. Like me, perhaps you have never thought of Jesus in that way, perhaps you never seen Him as a friend, a real friend who cares about every area of your life. You know him as the Savior and the Eternal Son of the Living God but do you know him as “your” intimate friend? The above scripture confirms that He is indeed our friend. He wants to share Himself with us. He gave himself for us. The people we choose as friends will let us down. They are limited in their ability to fulfill all of our needs and in many cases they don’t even know how to love but Jesus is the one who loves His friends. He loves us so much that He gave His life. Wow! Imagine that for a minute. Who do you know will give his life for you: A spouse, parent, a brother or sister? I seriously doubt it. People dedicate their lives in search for their own happiness no time to worry about anyone else.
God did create us with a need for each other; however, by no means should that need be a substitute for the innate need to be with God. Friendships are important, but they don't always last. Jesus knows us and loves us despite who we are. He stands by us through our ups and downs. He doesn’t hide away when we are facing adversity. He doesn’t use excuses to justify his absences and you don’t have to leave Him numerous messages to finally get a call back. He cares about our weakness and loneliness. He will always be there for us. He is our friend. Unlike other friends, we didn’t choose Him. He chose us (John 15:16).
When a love one turns his back on you, when you’re going through your darkest hours, I want you to remember that you are not alone. Jesus promises to dry up your tears when you are in pain. He promised to remove your anxiety when you are worried. He promised to hold your hand while walking through the dark valleys of life because He is your friend, your best friend, the life-giving friend, and the friend for life. If you never had a real friend, I have great news: Jesus longs to be your friend. He wants to have that deep, intimate, and true relationship you so definitely deserved. Call on his name and start enjoying a friendship you never thought possible.
Praise the Lord!
“No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you”. John 15:15-16
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
For many years I longed for deep friendships. It was quite embarrassing to discover that after a certain amount of years on this earth, I knew people in 5 continents and yet I had no real, intimate friends. I would meet people and instantly feel connected to them and I would offer them my friendship with all the benefits that come with it but over and over I’d get disappointed. I wasn’t getting the commitment I expected in return. I set expectations that no one could ever meet and as a result I grew up isolated, guarded and secretive. I was surrounded by people, but was lonely inside. Over the years I randomly trusted people who appeared to have wanted a deep friendship with me just to face the painful realization that they did not know how to give what I was so desperately searching for at the time.
I was reading the above scripture one night when I finally understood its true meaning. I have read it many times before but that night I realized that true friendship such as the one I was looking for can only come from God. The loneliness that I grew up with could only be filled by the unconditional love of God. It was unfair to expect earthly friendships to fill needs that God strategically created us with for the purpose of filling Himself. Like me, perhaps you have never thought of Jesus in that way, perhaps you never seen Him as a friend, a real friend who cares about every area of your life. You know him as the Savior and the Eternal Son of the Living God but do you know him as “your” intimate friend? The above scripture confirms that He is indeed our friend. He wants to share Himself with us. He gave himself for us. The people we choose as friends will let us down. They are limited in their ability to fulfill all of our needs and in many cases they don’t even know how to love but Jesus is the one who loves His friends. He loves us so much that He gave His life. Wow! Imagine that for a minute. Who do you know will give his life for you: A spouse, parent, a brother or sister? I seriously doubt it. People dedicate their lives in search for their own happiness no time to worry about anyone else.
God did create us with a need for each other; however, by no means should that need be a substitute for the innate need to be with God. Friendships are important, but they don't always last. Jesus knows us and loves us despite who we are. He stands by us through our ups and downs. He doesn’t hide away when we are facing adversity. He doesn’t use excuses to justify his absences and you don’t have to leave Him numerous messages to finally get a call back. He cares about our weakness and loneliness. He will always be there for us. He is our friend. Unlike other friends, we didn’t choose Him. He chose us (John 15:16).
When a love one turns his back on you, when you’re going through your darkest hours, I want you to remember that you are not alone. Jesus promises to dry up your tears when you are in pain. He promised to remove your anxiety when you are worried. He promised to hold your hand while walking through the dark valleys of life because He is your friend, your best friend, the life-giving friend, and the friend for life. If you never had a real friend, I have great news: Jesus longs to be your friend. He wants to have that deep, intimate, and true relationship you so definitely deserved. Call on his name and start enjoying a friendship you never thought possible.
Praise the Lord!
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Your Treasures & Your Heart
“But let your first care be for his kingdom and his righteousness; and all these other things will be given to you in addition.” Matthew 6:33
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
Jesus says how we spend our times tell Him how much we love Him. Every day another 24 hours or 1,440 minutes or 86,400 seconds and Jesus says how we spend it is a good indication of where our heart is. Some of us spend a majority of our time looking for riches, getting an education, running around after our mate and children without any thoughts of the kingdom of God. Considering what Jesus says earlier in Matthew 6:19-21 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
It is not enough to ambitiously yearn to accomplish. It is not enough to attend church “Kingdom building” is a life style and according to Jesus, God's Kingdom and His righteousness are the very top priorities in all of life. Seeking God's righteousness is that important. The devil knows this and he try to blind us (those who let him), with complicated situations to keep us away from kingdom work. Our focus should be toward the end result. He gives this encouragement and admonishment to motivate us to understand and live all of life in relation to where it ends. Will life end in the Kingdom of God or in the Lake of Fire? That is a choice that each person makes. Even in the everyday things, eating and drinking, going to work, getting along with others, and so on, God wants His people to relate those daily experiences to their goal, the Kingdom of God. Since you and I have no doubts of our salvation, we have to work hard in helping others.
Friend, you have to be very careful when focusing on material thing. Always make time for God and His Kingdom. Be vigilant; make sure to keep the big picture in front of you. Be anxious for nothing. Let God lead you. Be hungry for Him. Be Hungry for His word and His Kingdom and watch all other situations fall under His control and experience His Glory.
Praise the Lord!
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
Jesus says how we spend our times tell Him how much we love Him. Every day another 24 hours or 1,440 minutes or 86,400 seconds and Jesus says how we spend it is a good indication of where our heart is. Some of us spend a majority of our time looking for riches, getting an education, running around after our mate and children without any thoughts of the kingdom of God. Considering what Jesus says earlier in Matthew 6:19-21 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
It is not enough to ambitiously yearn to accomplish. It is not enough to attend church “Kingdom building” is a life style and according to Jesus, God's Kingdom and His righteousness are the very top priorities in all of life. Seeking God's righteousness is that important. The devil knows this and he try to blind us (those who let him), with complicated situations to keep us away from kingdom work. Our focus should be toward the end result. He gives this encouragement and admonishment to motivate us to understand and live all of life in relation to where it ends. Will life end in the Kingdom of God or in the Lake of Fire? That is a choice that each person makes. Even in the everyday things, eating and drinking, going to work, getting along with others, and so on, God wants His people to relate those daily experiences to their goal, the Kingdom of God. Since you and I have no doubts of our salvation, we have to work hard in helping others.
Friend, you have to be very careful when focusing on material thing. Always make time for God and His Kingdom. Be vigilant; make sure to keep the big picture in front of you. Be anxious for nothing. Let God lead you. Be hungry for Him. Be Hungry for His word and His Kingdom and watch all other situations fall under His control and experience His Glory.
Praise the Lord!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
God Provides
And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Matthew 6:30
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The difference between mankind and all of God’s creation is obviously the connection with God. He ordered everything to existence (Gen 1:11), yet with man He made his body from the dust of the earth, but his spirit and soul were immediately from his Creator, “And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” (Gen. 2:7). The very essence of who we are is part God. He breathed part of Himself into us, the part that gives life because He is the God of the living. He promotes life and not death. “I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. God is not the God of the dead, but of the living” (Matthew 22:32). The God who gives us life also knows how to preserves it while we are here on earth. God is not a father who worries about our soul alone, but of the body also. That fact is made clear in the above scripture. Our creator made 2 interesting points in Matthew 6:25-34. First, he made sure that we know our place in the order of creation (we are number 1-He cares for us way more), and second, He promised to take care of all of our needs.
So why do Christians worry? My pastor’s most quoted verse answer the question perfectly; “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge” Hosea 4:6. They don’t know God because He reveals Himself in His Word and unfortunately they don’t read the word. There are some professing Christians who assume the attitude that they have no responsibility in this matter: they say that faith is a supernatural principle, a Divine gift from God; therefore, it is not their fault that they are still struggling with faith. They claim that it is outside their power and province to do anything in order to obtain an increase of it. Consequently they go through an entire life continuously defeated and never experience the victorious power of the Word of God. Such passive way of life is in no way honoring or pleasing to God. The Bible tells us that the way to get more faith is to put to work the measure which we already have and to use the means God has appointed. (HIS WORD). Your duty is to read daily God’s Word, to meditate thereon, and lay the Divine promises on our hearts, to urge our souls to believe, to strive and fight against doubts and distrust. Have you ever noticed how some people never get to read the Bible with us during church services? It doesn’t matter how long the chapter, some people will take the entire time flipping through pages, disturbing those of us who are reading because they don’t know where anything is. They are not familiar with any of the books for the simple fact that they don’t read. If you want to please any one, you need to know their like and dislike, you have to spend time with them. A relationship with God is no less important. You must play your part. You must seek Him and He will embrace you.
The Christian must fight against evil thoughts of lack and complaints and must hold on the Divine promises of God and assure himself (constantly) that the “Lord will provide”.
Get familiar with God by reading His word and you will never have to be anxious another day of your life.
Praise the Lord!
Monday, November 29, 2010
The Incredible God......
Deserves Incredible Praise!
But you are holy, you who inhabit the praises of your people. Psalm 22:3
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The primary word for praise is Halal. It is the root of hallelujah, (to give glory, to boast, to shine, to be clamorous, to rave, to make a show, to celebrate). So praise is celebrating and honoring the person and work of God our creator for who He is and all He has done. Praise should come naturally from our heart. The above scripture says that our praise establishes a throne from which God can rule. I don’t know about you, but that makes me want to praise Him as often as I can. God manifests Himself in the midst of praise. God is worthy to be praised. He is amazing and has done incredible things. He is never out of stock when it comes to grace and mercy and that should be enough but He gave His best (His son Jesus Christ) for humanity’s worst (you and I).
Friend, when was the last time you thought of all the things God has done? I promise you, when you make Jesus the focus of your life, you will become a person of praise for He is worthy to be praised. The phrase halleluyah (halal) is in the imperative form which is a command. When you read the words "Praise the LORD" at the beginning and conclusion of many Psalms, including one of my favorite, (Psalms 113), you should understand that the psalmist is telling “you” personally to praise the Lord by opening your mouth, and start singing to God. Do you trust in God’s mercy regardless of the situation you’re living in? Are you depending on Him in everything (good, bad and ugly)? Are you praising Him daily for His mercy and sufficient grace? You need to start praising God.
Dear friend, God deserves and merits our praise in big assembly, but He will accept our praise anytime and anywhere. (Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples. Psalm 96:3). Our Father in heaven deserves our praise. If there is anything in your life keeping you from enjoying a relationship with The Incredible God, repent and confess it to God and invite The Holy Spirit to help you change so that you can become the son/daughter God created you to be; and if there is anyone you know who does know The Incredible God yet, make the decision to share the good news of Christ with him/her as soon as possible.
Praise the Lord!
But you are holy, you who inhabit the praises of your people. Psalm 22:3
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
The primary word for praise is Halal. It is the root of hallelujah, (to give glory, to boast, to shine, to be clamorous, to rave, to make a show, to celebrate). So praise is celebrating and honoring the person and work of God our creator for who He is and all He has done. Praise should come naturally from our heart. The above scripture says that our praise establishes a throne from which God can rule. I don’t know about you, but that makes me want to praise Him as often as I can. God manifests Himself in the midst of praise. God is worthy to be praised. He is amazing and has done incredible things. He is never out of stock when it comes to grace and mercy and that should be enough but He gave His best (His son Jesus Christ) for humanity’s worst (you and I).
Friend, when was the last time you thought of all the things God has done? I promise you, when you make Jesus the focus of your life, you will become a person of praise for He is worthy to be praised. The phrase halleluyah (halal) is in the imperative form which is a command. When you read the words "Praise the LORD" at the beginning and conclusion of many Psalms, including one of my favorite, (Psalms 113), you should understand that the psalmist is telling “you” personally to praise the Lord by opening your mouth, and start singing to God. Do you trust in God’s mercy regardless of the situation you’re living in? Are you depending on Him in everything (good, bad and ugly)? Are you praising Him daily for His mercy and sufficient grace? You need to start praising God.
Dear friend, God deserves and merits our praise in big assembly, but He will accept our praise anytime and anywhere. (Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples. Psalm 96:3). Our Father in heaven deserves our praise. If there is anything in your life keeping you from enjoying a relationship with The Incredible God, repent and confess it to God and invite The Holy Spirit to help you change so that you can become the son/daughter God created you to be; and if there is anyone you know who does know The Incredible God yet, make the decision to share the good news of Christ with him/her as soon as possible.
Praise the Lord!
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Focus on the Blessings
“Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great” Matthew 5:12
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Have you ever suffered through a situation that should have been a time of rejoicing? I have. For years I complained about having to work in an environment I detested but after I left, I started worrying about finding a new job and never actually enjoyed my new found freedom. Sadly I overlooked my blessing. During times when the problems seemed so great please take a deep look. And you will see that the blessings are even greater. The devil has a way of shifting your attention toward the negative to keep you from enjoying the positive and that is why God urges us to be vigilant. You already know, based on the Word of God, that there is no lack in the Body of Christ. Everything you could ever need, every problem you could ever face has been covered by the blood of Jesus. It doesn’t matter what the doctor says. It doesn’t matter how much you are hurting right now. The situation will stop; it has to stop when you are covered by the blood of Christ. So there is no need to shed a tear and definitely no reason to spend a God given day worrying about a problem He solved 2000 years ago.
We have no patience to endure. We want victory but we don’t want to fight for it. We live in this “instant gratification” culture where everything is fast and easy and we carry that mentality in our relationship with the Lord. We measure God ability to deliver us based on how quickly we get our needs met. We refuse to invest the time necessary to develop a relationship with Him. We just want to get what we need and be on our way. God loves us too much to let us get away with it. He always comes up with ways to keep us at His feet. Children who trust their parents have no worries in their presence and “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” Psalm 46:1. So when trouble comes overlook your circumstances and focus on God’s ability and willingness to help through. Focus on the reward waiting in heaven. It will not be easy but meditate on the promises of God. Ask God to speak to you through them and ask Him to open up your eyes to recognize his truth. Do not get casual about the word. You really do need to spend time reading it. One of my favorite preachers put it like this: “the Word of God isn’t enough. You must continually feed on what it says. Get it out and read it. Feast on it Go to church and hear it preached”. You don’t nourish your body and live on the memory of yesterday’s meal do you? The same goes for the word of God. You must feed it to yourself daily. Don’t just sit around and let the devil beat you down. Christ already won the battle. It is done, finished. Praise the Lord!
So if you have been suffering through some tough times lately, I challenge you to look around and wake up to the blessings that surround you. Pure joy can only come when you focus on you blessing and overlook the circumstances. Keep your eyes on the Lord and remember earth is the journey but the destination is heaven.
Praise the Lord!
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
Have you ever suffered through a situation that should have been a time of rejoicing? I have. For years I complained about having to work in an environment I detested but after I left, I started worrying about finding a new job and never actually enjoyed my new found freedom. Sadly I overlooked my blessing. During times when the problems seemed so great please take a deep look. And you will see that the blessings are even greater. The devil has a way of shifting your attention toward the negative to keep you from enjoying the positive and that is why God urges us to be vigilant. You already know, based on the Word of God, that there is no lack in the Body of Christ. Everything you could ever need, every problem you could ever face has been covered by the blood of Jesus. It doesn’t matter what the doctor says. It doesn’t matter how much you are hurting right now. The situation will stop; it has to stop when you are covered by the blood of Christ. So there is no need to shed a tear and definitely no reason to spend a God given day worrying about a problem He solved 2000 years ago.
We have no patience to endure. We want victory but we don’t want to fight for it. We live in this “instant gratification” culture where everything is fast and easy and we carry that mentality in our relationship with the Lord. We measure God ability to deliver us based on how quickly we get our needs met. We refuse to invest the time necessary to develop a relationship with Him. We just want to get what we need and be on our way. God loves us too much to let us get away with it. He always comes up with ways to keep us at His feet. Children who trust their parents have no worries in their presence and “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” Psalm 46:1. So when trouble comes overlook your circumstances and focus on God’s ability and willingness to help through. Focus on the reward waiting in heaven. It will not be easy but meditate on the promises of God. Ask God to speak to you through them and ask Him to open up your eyes to recognize his truth. Do not get casual about the word. You really do need to spend time reading it. One of my favorite preachers put it like this: “the Word of God isn’t enough. You must continually feed on what it says. Get it out and read it. Feast on it Go to church and hear it preached”. You don’t nourish your body and live on the memory of yesterday’s meal do you? The same goes for the word of God. You must feed it to yourself daily. Don’t just sit around and let the devil beat you down. Christ already won the battle. It is done, finished. Praise the Lord!
So if you have been suffering through some tough times lately, I challenge you to look around and wake up to the blessings that surround you. Pure joy can only come when you focus on you blessing and overlook the circumstances. Keep your eyes on the Lord and remember earth is the journey but the destination is heaven.
Praise the Lord!
Friday, November 26, 2010
Intimate Friend
True Friend
“No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you”. John 15:15-16
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
For many years I longed for deep friendships. It was quite embarrassing to discover that after a certain amount of years on this earth, I knew people from every continent and yet I had no real, intimate friends. I would meet people and instantly feel connected to them and I would offer them my friendship with all the benefits that come with it but over and over I’d get disappointed. I wasn’t getting the commitment I expected in return. I set expectations that no one could ever met and as a result I grew up isolated, guarded and secretive. I was surrounded by people but lonely inside. Over the years I randomly trusted people who appeared to have wanted a deep friendship with me just to face the painful realization that they did not know how to give what I was so desperately searching for at the time.
I was reading the above scripture one night when I finally understood its true meaning. I have read it many times before but that night I realized that true friendship such as the one I was looking for can only come from God. The loneliness that I grew up with could only be filled by the unconditional love of God. It was unfair to expect earthly friendships to fill needs that God strategically created us with for the purpose of filling Himself. Like me, perhaps you have never thought of Jesus in that way, perhaps you never seen Him as a friend, a real friend who cares about every area of your life. You know him as the Savior and the Eternal Son of the Living God but do you know him as “your” intimate friend? The above scripture confirms that He is indeed our friend. He wants to share Himself with us. He gave himself for us. The people we choose as friends will let us down. They are limited in their ability to fulfill all of our needs and in many cases they don’t even know how to love but Jesus is the one who loves His friends. He loves us so much that He gave His life. Wow! Imagine that for a minute. Who do you know will give his life for you: A spouse, parent, a brother or sister? I seriously doubt it. People dedicate their lives in search for their own happiness no time to worry about anyone else.
God did create us with a need for each other; however, by no means should that need be a substitute for the innate need to be with God. Friendships are important, but they don't always last. Jesus knows us and loves us despite who we are. He stands by us through our ups and downs. He doesn’t hide away when we are facing adversity. He doesn’t use excuses to justify his absences and you don’t have to leave Him numerous messages to finally get a call back. He cares about our weakness and loneliness. He will always be there for us. He is our friend. Unlike other friends, we didn’t choose Him. He chose us (John 15:16).
When a love one turns his back on you, when you’re going through your darkest hours, I want you to remember that you are not alone. Jesus promises to dry up your tears when you are in pain. He promised to remove your anxiety when you are worried. He promised to hold your hand while walking through the dark valleys of life because He is your friend, your best friend, the life-giving friend, the friend for life. If you never had a real friend, I have great news: Jesus longs to be your friend. He wants to have that deep, intimate, and true relationship you so definitely deserved. Call on his name and start enjoying a friendship you never thought possible.
Praise the Lord!
“No longer do I call you slaves, for the slave does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard from My Father I have made known to you. You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you”. John 15:15-16
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
For many years I longed for deep friendships. It was quite embarrassing to discover that after a certain amount of years on this earth, I knew people from every continent and yet I had no real, intimate friends. I would meet people and instantly feel connected to them and I would offer them my friendship with all the benefits that come with it but over and over I’d get disappointed. I wasn’t getting the commitment I expected in return. I set expectations that no one could ever met and as a result I grew up isolated, guarded and secretive. I was surrounded by people but lonely inside. Over the years I randomly trusted people who appeared to have wanted a deep friendship with me just to face the painful realization that they did not know how to give what I was so desperately searching for at the time.
I was reading the above scripture one night when I finally understood its true meaning. I have read it many times before but that night I realized that true friendship such as the one I was looking for can only come from God. The loneliness that I grew up with could only be filled by the unconditional love of God. It was unfair to expect earthly friendships to fill needs that God strategically created us with for the purpose of filling Himself. Like me, perhaps you have never thought of Jesus in that way, perhaps you never seen Him as a friend, a real friend who cares about every area of your life. You know him as the Savior and the Eternal Son of the Living God but do you know him as “your” intimate friend? The above scripture confirms that He is indeed our friend. He wants to share Himself with us. He gave himself for us. The people we choose as friends will let us down. They are limited in their ability to fulfill all of our needs and in many cases they don’t even know how to love but Jesus is the one who loves His friends. He loves us so much that He gave His life. Wow! Imagine that for a minute. Who do you know will give his life for you: A spouse, parent, a brother or sister? I seriously doubt it. People dedicate their lives in search for their own happiness no time to worry about anyone else.
God did create us with a need for each other; however, by no means should that need be a substitute for the innate need to be with God. Friendships are important, but they don't always last. Jesus knows us and loves us despite who we are. He stands by us through our ups and downs. He doesn’t hide away when we are facing adversity. He doesn’t use excuses to justify his absences and you don’t have to leave Him numerous messages to finally get a call back. He cares about our weakness and loneliness. He will always be there for us. He is our friend. Unlike other friends, we didn’t choose Him. He chose us (John 15:16).
When a love one turns his back on you, when you’re going through your darkest hours, I want you to remember that you are not alone. Jesus promises to dry up your tears when you are in pain. He promised to remove your anxiety when you are worried. He promised to hold your hand while walking through the dark valleys of life because He is your friend, your best friend, the life-giving friend, the friend for life. If you never had a real friend, I have great news: Jesus longs to be your friend. He wants to have that deep, intimate, and true relationship you so definitely deserved. Call on his name and start enjoying a friendship you never thought possible.
Praise the Lord!
Thursday, November 25, 2010
I Praise the Lord....
I Praise the Lord....
I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the LORD; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together! Psalm 34:1-334-
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www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.com
I praise my God, The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. I praise him because He is a wise God: He has the ability to devise perfect ends by the most perfect means. He is a father who truly knows best. He is Sovereign: My God knows no limits. He is in control of everything that happens in my life. My God is holly; there is no sin or evil thought in Him. My God is omniscient. He is well aware of everything in my life. Nothing is hidden from Him. My God is Faithful. He keeps all is promises. My hope for the future rests upon God’s faithfulness. My God is immutable. He will not change and He cannot change.
My God is righteous. He is exactly as He should be. My God is omnipresent. He is everywhere. He is keeping an eye on me. Oh my God is merciful: He took upon Himself the judgment that was due me. He dies for me and he is working on my behalf write this moment. My God is full of grace: He grants merit where it is undeserved and forgives my sin debt that could not be repaid.
I praise my God for allowing me to experience his fullness another year against all odds. I praise my God for blessing me with earthly parents who knew him. I praise God for my precious relationships. I praise my God for surrounding me with positive people. I praise my God for always placing me in Bible believing churches where His Word is not compromised. I praise God for the lovely, outstanding, godly children in my life without whom life would be boring, sad and just different: Keren-Happuch, Lynn-Iris, Christina, Jimmy –Lee, Gregory-Zidane, Patricia-Franztnie, Sarah, Sabrina, Ferna-Marie, Rachelle, Jolie-Luna, Esther, Frederick-Miccah and Jayden-Osteen. I praise God for creating me as I am (wonderfully and fearfully made). I praise God for not given up on me when I gave up on myself. I praise God for my trials and tribulations. I praise God for not sparing any hardship that is instrumental in perfecting me. I praise God for being Him: The Alpha and the Omega and the only Holy, worthy and only Father God.
Praise the Lord!
I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the LORD; let the humble hear and be glad. Oh, magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together! Psalm 34:1-334-
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.com
I praise my God, The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. I praise him because He is a wise God: He has the ability to devise perfect ends by the most perfect means. He is a father who truly knows best. He is Sovereign: My God knows no limits. He is in control of everything that happens in my life. My God is holly; there is no sin or evil thought in Him. My God is omniscient. He is well aware of everything in my life. Nothing is hidden from Him. My God is Faithful. He keeps all is promises. My hope for the future rests upon God’s faithfulness. My God is immutable. He will not change and He cannot change.
My God is righteous. He is exactly as He should be. My God is omnipresent. He is everywhere. He is keeping an eye on me. Oh my God is merciful: He took upon Himself the judgment that was due me. He dies for me and he is working on my behalf write this moment. My God is full of grace: He grants merit where it is undeserved and forgives my sin debt that could not be repaid.
I praise my God for allowing me to experience his fullness another year against all odds. I praise my God for blessing me with earthly parents who knew him. I praise God for my precious relationships. I praise my God for surrounding me with positive people. I praise my God for always placing me in Bible believing churches where His Word is not compromised. I praise God for the lovely, outstanding, godly children in my life without whom life would be boring, sad and just different: Keren-Happuch, Lynn-Iris, Christina, Jimmy –Lee, Gregory-Zidane, Patricia-Franztnie, Sarah, Sabrina, Ferna-Marie, Rachelle, Jolie-Luna, Esther, Frederick-Miccah and Jayden-Osteen. I praise God for creating me as I am (wonderfully and fearfully made). I praise God for not given up on me when I gave up on myself. I praise God for my trials and tribulations. I praise God for not sparing any hardship that is instrumental in perfecting me. I praise God for being Him: The Alpha and the Omega and the only Holy, worthy and only Father God.
Praise the Lord!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Jehovah Jireh is our Lord!
God is our Provider
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 1Timothy 6:19
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www.biletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
God wants us to trust Him. He does provide for those who put their trust in Him. When He wanted to provide for Abraham, he tested his faith by asking him to sacrifice his only son (we know that God did not spare his own son for our salvation). Faith is not believing in Him in spite of evidence but it is obeying in spite of consequences. Christians still count on their own ability. When in trouble, they get discourage if don’t see a way out. God will really provide for those who trust in and understand that he really indeed Jehovah Jireh. God is the Almighty he can do all things. “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist”. Colossians 1:16-17
He created everything for our enjoyment. He wants us to have it all. Obedience is the requirement, but you can’t obey without faith. “without faith it is not possible to be well-pleasing to him, for it is necessary for anyone who comes to God to have the belief that God is, and that he is a rewarder of all those who make a serious search for him”. Hebrews 11:6. Searching for God is indeed the door that opens the blessings/victories of our lives, and His provision depends on your obedience.
Abraham was willing to sacrifice His son and an entire nation still enjoying the blessing. What is it that God has been asking you to give up for Him? Is it your pride? Your job? Is it someone or our lifestyle? I am warning you that you will not experience victory unless you do as He commands. Take a leap of faith by obeying God’s word. Believe that He is your provider. Let go of yourself, turn totally to Him and live a life you never thought possible because God is full of surprises. Just when you think it was all over, He will come up with another way to shower you with His blessings and His ever increasing love.
Praise the Lord!
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 1Timothy 6:19
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.biletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
God wants us to trust Him. He does provide for those who put their trust in Him. When He wanted to provide for Abraham, he tested his faith by asking him to sacrifice his only son (we know that God did not spare his own son for our salvation). Faith is not believing in Him in spite of evidence but it is obeying in spite of consequences. Christians still count on their own ability. When in trouble, they get discourage if don’t see a way out. God will really provide for those who trust in and understand that he really indeed Jehovah Jireh. God is the Almighty he can do all things. “For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist”. Colossians 1:16-17
He created everything for our enjoyment. He wants us to have it all. Obedience is the requirement, but you can’t obey without faith. “without faith it is not possible to be well-pleasing to him, for it is necessary for anyone who comes to God to have the belief that God is, and that he is a rewarder of all those who make a serious search for him”. Hebrews 11:6. Searching for God is indeed the door that opens the blessings/victories of our lives, and His provision depends on your obedience.
Abraham was willing to sacrifice His son and an entire nation still enjoying the blessing. What is it that God has been asking you to give up for Him? Is it your pride? Your job? Is it someone or our lifestyle? I am warning you that you will not experience victory unless you do as He commands. Take a leap of faith by obeying God’s word. Believe that He is your provider. Let go of yourself, turn totally to Him and live a life you never thought possible because God is full of surprises. Just when you think it was all over, He will come up with another way to shower you with His blessings and His ever increasing love.
Praise the Lord!
Friday, November 19, 2010
Be Blessed!
“Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great” Matthew 5:12
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
Have you ever suffered through a situation that should have been a time of rejoicing? I have. For years I complained about having to work in an environment I detested but after I left, I started worrying about finding a new job and never actually enjoyed my new found freedom. Sadly I overlooked my blessing. During that time when the problems seemed so great please take a deep look. And you will see that the blessings are even greater. The devil has a way of shifting your attention toward the negative to keep you from enjoying the positive and that is why God urges us to be vigilant. You already know, based on the Word of God, that there is no lack in the Body of Christ. Everything you could ever need, every problem you could ever face has been covered by the blood of Jesus. It doesn’t matter what the doctor says. It doesn’t matter how much you are hurting right now. The situation will stop; it has to stop when you are covered by the blood of Christ. So there is no need to shed a tear and definitely no reason to spend a God given day worrying about a problem He solved 2000 years ago.
We have no patience to endure. We want victory but we don’t want to fight for it. We live in this “instant gratification” culture where everything is fast and easy and we carry that mentality in our relationship with the Lord. We measure God ability to deliver us based on how quickly we get our needs met. We refuse to invest the time necessary to develop a relationship with Him. We just want to get what we need and be on our way. God loves us too much to let us get away with it. He always comes up with ways to keep us at His feet. Children who trust their parents have no worries in their presence and “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” Psalm 46:1. So when trouble comes overlook your circumstances and focus on God’s ability and willingness to help through. Focus on the reward waiting in heaven. It will not be easy but meditate on the promises of God. Ask God to speak to you through them and ask Him to open up your eyes to recognize his truth. Do not get casual about the word. You really do need to spend time reading it. One of my favorite preachers put it like this: “the Word of God isn’t enough. You must continually feed on what it says. Get it out and read it. Feast on it Go to church and hear it preached”. You don’t live on the memory of yesterday’s meal do you? The same goes for the word of God. You must feed it to yourself daily. Don’t just sit around and let the devil beat you down. Christ already won the battle. It is done, finished. Praise the Lord!
So if you have been suffering through some tough times lately, I challenge you to look around and wake up to the blessings that surround you. Pure joy can only come when you focus on you blessing and overlook the circumstances. Keep your eyes on the Lord and remember earth is the journey but the destination is heaven.
Praise the Lord!
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Have you ever suffered through a situation that should have been a time of rejoicing? I have. For years I complained about having to work in an environment I detested but after I left, I started worrying about finding a new job and never actually enjoyed my new found freedom. Sadly I overlooked my blessing. During that time when the problems seemed so great please take a deep look. And you will see that the blessings are even greater. The devil has a way of shifting your attention toward the negative to keep you from enjoying the positive and that is why God urges us to be vigilant. You already know, based on the Word of God, that there is no lack in the Body of Christ. Everything you could ever need, every problem you could ever face has been covered by the blood of Jesus. It doesn’t matter what the doctor says. It doesn’t matter how much you are hurting right now. The situation will stop; it has to stop when you are covered by the blood of Christ. So there is no need to shed a tear and definitely no reason to spend a God given day worrying about a problem He solved 2000 years ago.
We have no patience to endure. We want victory but we don’t want to fight for it. We live in this “instant gratification” culture where everything is fast and easy and we carry that mentality in our relationship with the Lord. We measure God ability to deliver us based on how quickly we get our needs met. We refuse to invest the time necessary to develop a relationship with Him. We just want to get what we need and be on our way. God loves us too much to let us get away with it. He always comes up with ways to keep us at His feet. Children who trust their parents have no worries in their presence and “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” Psalm 46:1. So when trouble comes overlook your circumstances and focus on God’s ability and willingness to help through. Focus on the reward waiting in heaven. It will not be easy but meditate on the promises of God. Ask God to speak to you through them and ask Him to open up your eyes to recognize his truth. Do not get casual about the word. You really do need to spend time reading it. One of my favorite preachers put it like this: “the Word of God isn’t enough. You must continually feed on what it says. Get it out and read it. Feast on it Go to church and hear it preached”. You don’t live on the memory of yesterday’s meal do you? The same goes for the word of God. You must feed it to yourself daily. Don’t just sit around and let the devil beat you down. Christ already won the battle. It is done, finished. Praise the Lord!
So if you have been suffering through some tough times lately, I challenge you to look around and wake up to the blessings that surround you. Pure joy can only come when you focus on you blessing and overlook the circumstances. Keep your eyes on the Lord and remember earth is the journey but the destination is heaven.
Praise the Lord!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
You are a Bride
Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory. For the wedding of the Lamb has come. (Revelation 19:7)
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When I was single, I couldn't attend a wedding without crying. I used to be very emotional in the sense that, there is so much beauty at a wedding, the bride is always so beautiful, the groom so proud and parents so excited and happy that I get overwhelmed by it all.
One day, I was meditating on Revelation 19:7, and the Holy Spirit opened up my eyes on the true nature of my attitude at weddings. The reality is, I am a bride and you are also a bride. When we were saved we became espoused to the Holy Spirit, and what we got from it is more than a ring, we actually got the best husband of all, and a guarantee of eternal life.
As a bride you and I have the same responsibilities to be faithful and to honor our groom by your words, actions and behavior.
I now enjoy being part of wedding celebration for no eyes have seen and no ears have heard about the celebration that is awaiting us, at our wedding, when we finally meet our groom, and our Savior.
Let's take a moment to really praise the Lord today and worship Him for making provisions for all of our needs.
Praise the Lord!
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When I was single, I couldn't attend a wedding without crying. I used to be very emotional in the sense that, there is so much beauty at a wedding, the bride is always so beautiful, the groom so proud and parents so excited and happy that I get overwhelmed by it all.
One day, I was meditating on Revelation 19:7, and the Holy Spirit opened up my eyes on the true nature of my attitude at weddings. The reality is, I am a bride and you are also a bride. When we were saved we became espoused to the Holy Spirit, and what we got from it is more than a ring, we actually got the best husband of all, and a guarantee of eternal life.
As a bride you and I have the same responsibilities to be faithful and to honor our groom by your words, actions and behavior.
I now enjoy being part of wedding celebration for no eyes have seen and no ears have heard about the celebration that is awaiting us, at our wedding, when we finally meet our groom, and our Savior.
Let's take a moment to really praise the Lord today and worship Him for making provisions for all of our needs.
Praise the Lord!
Monday, November 15, 2010
A Promise of God
Again, I say to you, that if two of you are in agreement on earth about anything for which they will make a request, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. Matthew 18:19
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Can God really mean something like this? The only way we can grasp the meaning of a promise like this or any of His promises is if we have real wisdom, “and if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him”. (James 1:5). Why would He make such promise? He did simply because He loves us. God is love. He is motivated by love. It is almost impossible to trust His selfless love because we are not familiar with it here on earth. Now, “Quid Pro Quo”, you do this for me, and I will do that for you is something we know. We are always looking for motivation hidden behind a behavior. You and I should understand that God is dependable. He has power to keep His promises. He doesn’t lie. He doesn’t change. People chosen by God who accomplished something for Him chose to believe His promises. You can and should rely on His love and His infinite Wisdom. Moses trusted God and knew Him well because he said “God is not a man, that he should lie, nor a son of man, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?” (Numbers 23:19). What did God say in the last book of the Old Testament? “I the Lord do not change” (Malachi 3:6).
Now, the promise of giving you what two of you agree on is a promise that God will keep. He does keep all of His promises. If you don’t have anyone to share this promise with, ask God to send someone to you. “And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive” (Matthew 21:22) Pray with them for their specific need. They’ll pray for yours. You may count us your prayer partners, too, if you wish. His promises are powerful, because of His love.
Trusting is not something that comes naturally to us. It has to be attained. We grew up experiencing certain hurts and disappointments. These need to be recognized and released if we are to learn to trust. A life that includes trust in God is a joyous life. It’s difficult for adults to learn new “tricks”, but trust is not as difficult as you may think; every attempt at trusting is one step closer. This year, we are going to take baby steps together. We are going to strengthen our faith together by reading His Word, and by encouraging each other.
Can we all trust God? Really trust Him? Can we trust Him with our hearts, our resources, our lives and our souls? Absolutely! There was nobody before Him and there will be nobody after Him. He is the Alpha and The Omega. He had no predecessor. He will have no successor. He is the source of all things. He is all things. He is the giver of life. He is life. He is the joy out of every sorrow. He is the light of every darkness. He’s the peace that passes all understanding. He is the giver of every good and perfect gift. You can trust that He will keep all of His promises. You can and should absolutely trust Him.
Praise the Lord!
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Follow Christ
Then Jesus said to the disciples, "If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross, and follow me. Matthew 16:24
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To be Christian means to be a follower of Christ and to turn over our will and desire to Him. The first thing that we are supposed to learn when we become Christians is that we are now owned by Jesus Christ. This is what we call, "Lordship. We don’t just call Him Lord. He really is Lord of our entire lives. Many people don’t want to come to Christ because they believe that the sacrifice of self is too big of a price to pay, when the truth is yielding completely to the Lord won't cost you anything. It will only cause you to live life to its fullest. Jesus came for you to have life, more abundant life (John 10:10). Most people don't believe that God said what He meant and meant what He said.
“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge” Hosea 4:6. When you turn over your being to the world, you are trading your diseases, your, lacks and worries for a life of health, prosperity and peace. How important would a lifetime of pleasure seem when compared to an eternity separated from God and all the blessings of life with him? How foolish will it be to seek comfort and riches of the world while ignoring the issue of our soul’s eternal salvation? Some people want to wait until they are older to follow Christ but the truth is some of us don’t get to grow old. People die at all ages, waiting for tomorrow might be the biggest mistake one can ever make; besides, it is better to start living in perfect harmony with Christ now, if we are going to spend eternity with Him, it is wise to develop a relationship with Him right here on earth. While Jesus called his followers to deny themselves, take up their crosses, and follow, He also promised awesome rewards: Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.” (Matthew 16:24-25)
God is such a Great Father. He sent His son to die for our salvation. He is the creator of all. He has it all, but your life is the only thing that God cannot have unless you give it to Him. God gave you life so that you would have something valuable to give to Him. I don’t want you to give up your life for opportunities. Give up your self simply because you love Him. Look into yourself and decide once and for all to follow Christ.
Praise the Lord!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
God Loves You
“But the very hairs of your head are all numbered” Matthew 10:30
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God knows everything about you, yes “you”. He even counted every string of hair on your head. Isn’t that amazing? I promise you that He knew you before you were born. “My frame was not unseen by you when I was made secretly, and strangely formed in the lowest parts of the earth” Psalm 139:15. I guarantee you on the authority of the Word of God, that He loves you. This is amazing to me especially because I am almost invisible in my family (being 1 of 9), let alone in my community and the planet. It is hard for me to comprehend of any reason why the Lord of lords, the magnificent King of kings would be and/or should be interested in me and yet our Lord looks down and He sees me and you. He sees millions of us and cherished us one by one. He keeps tabs on us individually. He watches out and provides for each one of us as though each individual was the only child.
Think about it for a moment: The great God that creates and runs the universe is concerned about “you”. Most people imagine that in God’s eyes we are just one of millions. We know most people don’t think we are important and so we assume God thinks of us in a similar way. But then, again, God is not like most people. To Him, each one us is special and worth sending His son to die for. To be honest everyone wants to be loved and accepted. There is nothing mankind wouldn’t do to find love and yet God loves us with his whole heart. He loves “you” with every speck of his enormous love. That means no matter how much he loves others, he couldn’t possibly love anyone else more than he loves you and no matter how much your spouse or/and your children love you, their love can never compared to the love of God.
Mankind type of love is limited and conditional. Most of us don’t know how to love but “God is love.” (1 John 4:8).People love base on their criteria but to God no Christian is too old, too poor, too uneducated, too stupid and too annoying to be loved. It doesn’t matter who your parents were or what family you came from because when you accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you automatically become an accepted (worthy of love) member of the elite family of the most prominent God. For just one aspect of this, see and just like any good father, He has plan for your life, great plans but unlike your earthly father, He’s got the means, the power and the will to bring the plans to fulfillment. Now what is you’d like to accomplish on this earth? Are you in the midst of great troubles? What are your most pressing needs? Bring them all to the Lord in prayers. There is nothing you loving father cannot do? If He could bring a dead person back to life, he can surely take care of you.
Have you been looking for the love that surpasses all intelligence? Has your search led you a destructive path? Then look no further than the loving arms of God. No matter what you have done, I assure you, He loves you. (Romans 5:8).Once under His command, He will bring the right people into your life. He will turn your sorrows into joy. He will repair you damage relationships. He will restore your peace. He knows you and yet he loves you anyway. He doesn't love you because you are so lovable or because of some misguided notion of love; He loves you because He is love. He created you to have a loving relationship with Him, and He sacrificed His own Son (who also willingly died for us John 3:16) to restore that relationship. He loves you. You are precious in His eyes. He will never abandon you. You can count on His unconditional love.
God's love towards us, His estranged creation, is graphically depicted in the sacrifice He made on our behalf. "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends" (John 15:13).
Will you share His message of love with at least one person today? I trust that you will.
Praise the Lord!
Monday, November 8, 2010
Let’s Talk About Love
When was The Last Time Someone Professes Love to You?
“We love him, because he first loved us’. 1 John 4:19
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I have been sitting here since three in the morning trying to remember the last time someone says those very simple words to me: “I love you”. Well I couldn’t remember but I assure you it wasn’t this year, if ever. Then, I tried to remember the last time I receive a love letter, and again it wasn’t this year or the year before. The reason could be the fact that I don’t say I love you either. It’s been hard for me to say it because I don’t play with words anymore, definitely not since I found out the meaning of true love. I want to be able to mean those words before I profess them. Love is very serious and some of us have trouble loving people who don’t love us first. Allow me to be candid; I cannot love someone who does not love me first, and I need to know it. No need to say it, but I need to understand it by actions. It doesn’t matter what the initial attraction is, unless someone starts showing some love, I will not respond to words; therefore, I don’t repeat those words in vain.
The Bible tells us that "God is Love" (1 John 4:8). But how can we even begin to understand such truth? The world tells us that love is any of a number of emotions and experiences related to a sense of strong affection or profound oneness, and the Bible gives us many passages of God’s definition of loves. The most common and my favorite is 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." So one way God defines love is in the act of giving. However, what God gave is something no one else can ever give us. God sacrificed His only Son so that those of us who put our faith in Him will not spend eternity separated from Him, but will spent eternity with Him. This is an amazing love, because we are the ones who choose to be separated from God by rejecting his son, by rejecting God’s grace. Do you know what the Bible is? It is the ultimate love letter. It is God's love letter to “you”. It is God saying to you, "I have set my eye upon you. I love you!" It is God saying, I created you, and I know what you are all about, I HAVE SEEN ALL YOU HAVE DONE BUT I STILL LOVE YOU. I love you first. I loved you before you came to existence.
Friend, if like me you have been unable to respond to love unless you are first loved; here is your opportunity to do so. The Bible affirms God’s great unconditional love. The Bible tells in Romans 5:8, "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." You are worthy of love and the beauty of it is that you don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to be from such and such family. You don’t have to have the perfect figure. You don’t have to attend the best schools. You don’t even have to have a certain amount of money at the bank, God loves you, and you don’t have to do any works for it. Christ has already done the work for you on Calvary, many years ago. The work is done, completed. Your sin debts are paid in full. Glory to God! You are loved, you are accepted and if you never get another love letter in this life time, you are going to be just fine because you already know the power of the greatest love of all: The kind of love that offers eternal life. God love is very different from human love. God's love is unconditional, and it's not based on feelings or emotions. His love doesn’t make us weak in the knees, Glory to God. His kind of love gives strength. He doesn't love us because we're lovable or because we make Him feel good; He loves us because He is love. He created us to have a loving relationship with Him, and He sacrificed His own Son (who also willingly gave His life for us) to restore the relationship that is so dear to His heart.
If you want to know true love then get to know God by reading His word, and accept His son’ sacrifice. God is ready to pour out His love on you, and He wants to teach you how to love others as He loves you. The beauty of it is that you will NOT be rejected. Will you please tell someone about His great love?
God’s Grace Says Openly “I Love You”
Praise the Lord!
“We love him, because he first loved us’. 1 John 4:19
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www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
I have been sitting here since three in the morning trying to remember the last time someone says those very simple words to me: “I love you”. Well I couldn’t remember but I assure you it wasn’t this year, if ever. Then, I tried to remember the last time I receive a love letter, and again it wasn’t this year or the year before. The reason could be the fact that I don’t say I love you either. It’s been hard for me to say it because I don’t play with words anymore, definitely not since I found out the meaning of true love. I want to be able to mean those words before I profess them. Love is very serious and some of us have trouble loving people who don’t love us first. Allow me to be candid; I cannot love someone who does not love me first, and I need to know it. No need to say it, but I need to understand it by actions. It doesn’t matter what the initial attraction is, unless someone starts showing some love, I will not respond to words; therefore, I don’t repeat those words in vain.
The Bible tells us that "God is Love" (1 John 4:8). But how can we even begin to understand such truth? The world tells us that love is any of a number of emotions and experiences related to a sense of strong affection or profound oneness, and the Bible gives us many passages of God’s definition of loves. The most common and my favorite is 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." So one way God defines love is in the act of giving. However, what God gave is something no one else can ever give us. God sacrificed His only Son so that those of us who put our faith in Him will not spend eternity separated from Him, but will spent eternity with Him. This is an amazing love, because we are the ones who choose to be separated from God by rejecting his son, by rejecting God’s grace. Do you know what the Bible is? It is the ultimate love letter. It is God's love letter to “you”. It is God saying to you, "I have set my eye upon you. I love you!" It is God saying, I created you, and I know what you are all about, I HAVE SEEN ALL YOU HAVE DONE BUT I STILL LOVE YOU. I love you first. I loved you before you came to existence.
Friend, if like me you have been unable to respond to love unless you are first loved; here is your opportunity to do so. The Bible affirms God’s great unconditional love. The Bible tells in Romans 5:8, "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." You are worthy of love and the beauty of it is that you don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to be from such and such family. You don’t have to have the perfect figure. You don’t have to attend the best schools. You don’t even have to have a certain amount of money at the bank, God loves you, and you don’t have to do any works for it. Christ has already done the work for you on Calvary, many years ago. The work is done, completed. Your sin debts are paid in full. Glory to God! You are loved, you are accepted and if you never get another love letter in this life time, you are going to be just fine because you already know the power of the greatest love of all: The kind of love that offers eternal life. God love is very different from human love. God's love is unconditional, and it's not based on feelings or emotions. His love doesn’t make us weak in the knees, Glory to God. His kind of love gives strength. He doesn't love us because we're lovable or because we make Him feel good; He loves us because He is love. He created us to have a loving relationship with Him, and He sacrificed His own Son (who also willingly gave His life for us) to restore the relationship that is so dear to His heart.
If you want to know true love then get to know God by reading His word, and accept His son’ sacrifice. God is ready to pour out His love on you, and He wants to teach you how to love others as He loves you. The beauty of it is that you will NOT be rejected. Will you please tell someone about His great love?
God’s Grace Says Openly “I Love You”
Praise the Lord!
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Keeps your Eyes on God
Remain Focus
My eyes are ever toward the LORD
Psalms 25:15
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In Psalm 1 we learn that there are two ways: One is right and leads to God. The other is wrong and does not lead to our heavenly father. Psalm 25 focus on the right road. It tells us that it is not easy, but it teaches us not to stop believing in God just because life becomes hard. We must not do things in our own way. We must do things God's way. He will always send us help. It also tells us to remain focus on God in adversity. When you keep your attention to Him, the situation around you will not be able to affect you as much because you will constantly be reminded of His glory and power, and you will know without a doubt that He is able to do anything, even remove your road blocks and changing your circumstances into opportunities. There is no limit to what you can accomplish when you keep your eyes on a goal because the dream (goal) is a much more powerful force than ability.
Trouble comes when you stop focusing on your goal. I used mental imagery and always try to motivate people about how to turn dream into reality. Well a few years ago I was working as a manager and I spent a lot of personal time training my assistant. I thought her everything I know about the business. I wanted her to be able to handle every aspect of it to make my life easier. The word around the store used to be that there were two "me". I couldn't be any happier. I even taught her the steps to accomplish her dearest goal. Life was sweet. I was able to come to work late and call on her whenever I needed. Well, one morning she came to the office and told me about her plan to move to Panama City, FL. I almost stop breathing, but then I relaxed because I figured it was just small talk, because she has no resources, but one morning I came to work and there was a map of Panama City on her desk, I could not believe it. A month later the map was up with highlight of different areas. Another month later a few areas were circled. A few weeks later there were photos of houses in Panama City on the wall and one day she asked me for a weekend off to go to (guess where?) Panama City… to take a look around, and a few weeks later she was gone. Within seven months Angela, who is now one of my best friends was gone. She was able to accomplish the impossible because she kept her eyes on the goal. Everything that I have done to discourage her and keep her from accomplishing her dream had absolutely no impact. Keeping her eyes on her goal was much powerful force than her obstacles.
Friend, do you know why you worry and keep going in circle? Do you know why you are still struggling with the same sins, the same obstacle without getting any results? I can guarantee you that it is because you take your eyes off of God. There cannot be discouragement or defeat when you keep your eyes on the Lord. When you keep your eyes on Him, His might and power become your strength and you are able to handle anything, glory to God
Have you taken your eyes away from God? Have you been going around your dream and yet unable to accomplish them? Re-align your thoughts, turn to God and watch your dearest struggles turn to victory.
Praise the Lord!
My eyes are ever toward the LORD
Psalms 25:15
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In Psalm 1 we learn that there are two ways: One is right and leads to God. The other is wrong and does not lead to our heavenly father. Psalm 25 focus on the right road. It tells us that it is not easy, but it teaches us not to stop believing in God just because life becomes hard. We must not do things in our own way. We must do things God's way. He will always send us help. It also tells us to remain focus on God in adversity. When you keep your attention to Him, the situation around you will not be able to affect you as much because you will constantly be reminded of His glory and power, and you will know without a doubt that He is able to do anything, even remove your road blocks and changing your circumstances into opportunities. There is no limit to what you can accomplish when you keep your eyes on a goal because the dream (goal) is a much more powerful force than ability.
Trouble comes when you stop focusing on your goal. I used mental imagery and always try to motivate people about how to turn dream into reality. Well a few years ago I was working as a manager and I spent a lot of personal time training my assistant. I thought her everything I know about the business. I wanted her to be able to handle every aspect of it to make my life easier. The word around the store used to be that there were two "me". I couldn't be any happier. I even taught her the steps to accomplish her dearest goal. Life was sweet. I was able to come to work late and call on her whenever I needed. Well, one morning she came to the office and told me about her plan to move to Panama City, FL. I almost stop breathing, but then I relaxed because I figured it was just small talk, because she has no resources, but one morning I came to work and there was a map of Panama City on her desk, I could not believe it. A month later the map was up with highlight of different areas. Another month later a few areas were circled. A few weeks later there were photos of houses in Panama City on the wall and one day she asked me for a weekend off to go to (guess where?) Panama City… to take a look around, and a few weeks later she was gone. Within seven months Angela, who is now one of my best friends was gone. She was able to accomplish the impossible because she kept her eyes on the goal. Everything that I have done to discourage her and keep her from accomplishing her dream had absolutely no impact. Keeping her eyes on her goal was much powerful force than her obstacles.
Friend, do you know why you worry and keep going in circle? Do you know why you are still struggling with the same sins, the same obstacle without getting any results? I can guarantee you that it is because you take your eyes off of God. There cannot be discouragement or defeat when you keep your eyes on the Lord. When you keep your eyes on Him, His might and power become your strength and you are able to handle anything, glory to God
Have you taken your eyes away from God? Have you been going around your dream and yet unable to accomplish them? Re-align your thoughts, turn to God and watch your dearest struggles turn to victory.
Praise the Lord!
Monday, November 1, 2010
How smart are you?
For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength. 1 Corinthians 1:25
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You probably know people who are intelligent and know it. They tend to always flaunt it either by correcting every word you say or by undermining any decision you make. There are also those who are smart but are not fully aware of it. They are shy and made decisions with great difficulties. But how smart are you? Do you Do you seek parents’ counsel? Do you call an older sibling or do you instantly know which decision to make when facing different choices? I have news for you this morning dear friend. No matter who you are, no matter the level of education you have received and no matter how smart you know/think you are, when it comes to your life you cannot not rely on your understanding. You must severe all ties with your wise/clever/intelligent self when you are born again. You must relinquish will power to Christ. You must humble yourself and yield to the power of God.
Christians don’t belong to themselves. If you are a believer, on the day you accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior, your life as you know it is forever gone and is replaced by a brand new one. Listen, believers fail to remember at times that they were bought for a high price. The blood of Christ is in fact the highest price anyone could ever paid. Jesus did not die just to leave you alone. He actually cares for you. He wants to be part of your life (I mean every area of your life is under his supervision). He wants to be your counselor, your friend, and your number one “go to person”. He wants to be your everything. You can rely on your own wisdom and pay the consequences or you can come to Him. You are missing out when you don’t go to Christ. You are carrying loads that you could have easily left at his feet. The word of God in Matthew 11:28 says, Come to me you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. You can actually rest in God’s presence. You do not have to carry your load.
Jesus says I am the truth, the way and the light (John 14:6). Let Him lead you friend. Let him lead you to that job. Let him lead you to that spouse, let him pick the house you should purchase. Ask him for help in finding those keys you keep misplacing. Invite him to accompany you during your mundane trips to the grocery store. Invite him in. Let him know that he is welcome in your life. Allow him to take his rightful place in your life.
Let us pray: Father God, thank you for loving me unconditionally. Thank you for sending your son to die for my sin. Thank you for showing me the truth. Help me submit to you. I want to surrender my will to your unfailing control. Take possession of me (mind, soul and body). Thank you for guidance. Thank you for your word. May your wisdom be established in me. May your divine perfection continue to thrill my soul. May the power of your Spirit strengthen me and cover me with the power that I need to overcome myself, my will, the seductions of this world and the enemy. Give me a deep realization of your presence so that I can share your goodness with others. I adore you. I love you for only you are worthy of my love. Only you are holy and only you are God. Amen
Praise the Lord!
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
You probably know people who are intelligent and know it. They tend to always flaunt it either by correcting every word you say or by undermining any decision you make. There are also those who are smart but are not fully aware of it. They are shy and made decisions with great difficulties. But how smart are you? Do you Do you seek parents’ counsel? Do you call an older sibling or do you instantly know which decision to make when facing different choices? I have news for you this morning dear friend. No matter who you are, no matter the level of education you have received and no matter how smart you know/think you are, when it comes to your life you cannot not rely on your understanding. You must severe all ties with your wise/clever/intelligent self when you are born again. You must relinquish will power to Christ. You must humble yourself and yield to the power of God.
Christians don’t belong to themselves. If you are a believer, on the day you accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior, your life as you know it is forever gone and is replaced by a brand new one. Listen, believers fail to remember at times that they were bought for a high price. The blood of Christ is in fact the highest price anyone could ever paid. Jesus did not die just to leave you alone. He actually cares for you. He wants to be part of your life (I mean every area of your life is under his supervision). He wants to be your counselor, your friend, and your number one “go to person”. He wants to be your everything. You can rely on your own wisdom and pay the consequences or you can come to Him. You are missing out when you don’t go to Christ. You are carrying loads that you could have easily left at his feet. The word of God in Matthew 11:28 says, Come to me you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest. You can actually rest in God’s presence. You do not have to carry your load.
Jesus says I am the truth, the way and the light (John 14:6). Let Him lead you friend. Let him lead you to that job. Let him lead you to that spouse, let him pick the house you should purchase. Ask him for help in finding those keys you keep misplacing. Invite him to accompany you during your mundane trips to the grocery store. Invite him in. Let him know that he is welcome in your life. Allow him to take his rightful place in your life.
Let us pray: Father God, thank you for loving me unconditionally. Thank you for sending your son to die for my sin. Thank you for showing me the truth. Help me submit to you. I want to surrender my will to your unfailing control. Take possession of me (mind, soul and body). Thank you for guidance. Thank you for your word. May your wisdom be established in me. May your divine perfection continue to thrill my soul. May the power of your Spirit strengthen me and cover me with the power that I need to overcome myself, my will, the seductions of this world and the enemy. Give me a deep realization of your presence so that I can share your goodness with others. I adore you. I love you for only you are worthy of my love. Only you are holy and only you are God. Amen
Praise the Lord!
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Jesus Calms the Storm
He got up and rebuked the wind and raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. Where is your faith? He asked his disciples. (Luke 8:24-25).
Jesus was the one who started it. He asked the disciples to go with Him to the other side of the Lake, and fell asleep on the way.
It is not always going to be smooth sailing when God asked you to do something, as a matter of fact, it is going to be dangerous, you will experience hardships, but one thing is sure, you will come out of it, amen?
There are times in our lives when we're going through our storms and it looks as though God is asleep, there will be times that our storms will be so strong that it will seem as though we are about to lose the battle, but the scripture says, that God does not not sleep, He will come to our rescue.
Our God is an almighty God, He is a powerful God, omniscient and omnipotent. He knows all, he is the author and the finisher of all things, and He always finish what He started, amen?
Rest assured, God is in control. Everything in your life (victory, hardships and storms)are for His glory. You must keep the faith. You don't have any trouble; all you need is faith in God.
Jesus is asking you this minute, where is your faith? Why are you worried about your troubles? He is with you, there is NO NEED to fear. If you are going to worry, don't pray; but if you are a praying man or woman of God then DON'T WORRY, amen?
Jesus already calm your storm on Calvary, He already defeated the devil, by faith receive your healing, the restoration of your marriage, the wholeness of your mind, and victory in “ALL” areas of your life in the Holy name of Jesus, amen. God wants to step in, just call on His name, invite Him in, He will do his part. God loves you and He cares about the situations of your life, just talk to Him. He is waiting.
The word of God says, that He knows every string of hair on your head. He knows you before you were born.(notice present tense). HE LOVES YOU, get it? You have nothing to fear.
Praise the Lord!
Jesus was the one who started it. He asked the disciples to go with Him to the other side of the Lake, and fell asleep on the way.
It is not always going to be smooth sailing when God asked you to do something, as a matter of fact, it is going to be dangerous, you will experience hardships, but one thing is sure, you will come out of it, amen?
There are times in our lives when we're going through our storms and it looks as though God is asleep, there will be times that our storms will be so strong that it will seem as though we are about to lose the battle, but the scripture says, that God does not not sleep, He will come to our rescue.
Our God is an almighty God, He is a powerful God, omniscient and omnipotent. He knows all, he is the author and the finisher of all things, and He always finish what He started, amen?
Rest assured, God is in control. Everything in your life (victory, hardships and storms)are for His glory. You must keep the faith. You don't have any trouble; all you need is faith in God.
Jesus is asking you this minute, where is your faith? Why are you worried about your troubles? He is with you, there is NO NEED to fear. If you are going to worry, don't pray; but if you are a praying man or woman of God then DON'T WORRY, amen?
Jesus already calm your storm on Calvary, He already defeated the devil, by faith receive your healing, the restoration of your marriage, the wholeness of your mind, and victory in “ALL” areas of your life in the Holy name of Jesus, amen. God wants to step in, just call on His name, invite Him in, He will do his part. God loves you and He cares about the situations of your life, just talk to Him. He is waiting.
The word of God says, that He knows every string of hair on your head. He knows you before you were born.(notice present tense). HE LOVES YOU, get it? You have nothing to fear.
Praise the Lord!
Monday, October 25, 2010
Lonely No More
“He was in the world, and the world came into being through him; yet the world did not know him. He came to what was his own, and his own people did not accept him”. John 1:10-11
There is a difference between loneliness and being alone. You can be alone without being lonely. There is no reason why you should be overwhelmed when you know Christ. After all, he knows a thing or two about being alone. He was rejected by his own people, misunderstood in his own town. If anyone can fill your lonely days with love and understand, it is Christ. He understands exactly what you are going through because He’s been there. I recently read a quote by the late Switzerland Christian psychiatrist, Dr.Paul Tournier “Loneliness is the most devastating malady of this age”. Now we know that to be true in some cases because people are spending a fortune in trying to find a person to share their lives with. They have places that charge per the hour for companionship. Loneliness is usually the result of a broken promise/a broken heart. The Bible says that Jesus came to heal the broken-hearted. You don’t have to be lonely anymore.
People say, well…”I need a real person. I am a human being” and I say Jesus is real. He understands you better than anyone. You can find refuge in Him and unlike other friends; He will never leave nor forsake you, amen. He wants a relationship with you more than you want one with Him. He cares about your heart; He will not break His promises. He can be your one and only true friend, if you let Him. He can and will fill that void in your heart. His invitation to you has not changed. “Come to me, all you weary and burdened I will give you rest”. Matthew 11:28. He wants to comfort you and lighten the load if you allow Him access to your heart. If I were you, I wouldn’t carry my load by myself, when I really don’t have to.
Choose to rest in the right arm. Stop the pattern of deceit by running to the same type of people who always let you down and break your heart. Jesus love will fulfill your needs. Your longing can only be satisfied by His true love. Turn your back on loneliness for good. Turn your back on brokenness for good. Turn your back on pain for good. Turn your back on a lifetime of lack and say hello to abundance. “I am come that they might have life and that they might have it more abundantly”. John 10:10
Will you choose Him today? Make the choice. Confess it loudly. You don’t have to experience loneliness another day of your life.
Praise the Lord!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Take Control of your Thoughts
Therefore, your minds must be clear and ready for action. Place your confidence completely in what God's kindness will bring you when Jesus Christ appears again. 1 Peter 1:13
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
Many times when we talk and think negative we aren't even conscious of it. When things in life don't turn out for the best it could be because of the way you talk and/or the way you think. What kind of conversations are you having with others? What kind of conversations are you having with yourself? Are you using positive or negative thoughts? The Bible warns us about the danger of ungodly thoughts. It is vital that we keep our minds in agreement with God’s plan and promises.
How do you train your mind to think Godly-thoughts?
1. You can learn to view yourself primarily as God sees you, as his child born-again and citizen of heaven. A child worth dying for (John 3:16).
2. Try to seek first the rule of God in your life, and He will provide for your needs as stated in Matthew 6:33
3. Guard your mind from the influence of the world (beware what we let you let your eyes see on television). Guard both your eyes and mind from worldly influence. Having a friendship with the world is being an enemy of God's. (James 4:4)
4. Be in God's Word so that when a sinful thought comes to your mind (a temptation), you will be able to recognize it and know what appropriate course of action to take. Jesus was tempted but responded to each of Satan's temptation with Scripture. As we do our part the Holy Spirit will assume His position. To be a Christian is to be one with Christ meaning we share His vision and agree with Him about what’s good and evil.
5. Lastly and most importantly, I do not know whether you have already placed your faith in Christ as Savior from your sin or not. This is where you absolutely must start! Without this, there can be no victory over sinful thoughts and temptations and His promises for his children are not for you; nor is the Holy Spirit’s power available to you! Being born again is a must. Turn your life over to God. Acknowledge the truth of Christ.
The Bible is full of truth about the importance of controlling our minds:(2 Cor. 11:2-3), (Rom. 8:5-7), (2 Cor. 10:4-5), (Rom. 1:28), and Colossians 3:1-3 to mention just a few. The person you will be in the future is a direct result of what you are thinking right now. If you don’t like where you’re headed, begin to think godly, positive thoughts, and God will change your destiny. Remember God knows what goes on the inside of you and He sees in the dark. You outside does not impress Him. “In what secret place may a man take cover without my seeing him? says the Lord. Is there any place in heaven or earth where I am not? says the Lord”. Jeremiah 23:24
May God richly bless you as you seek to honor Him with what matters most to Him: who you are inside and not just what you appear to be to others. May God make Jesus’ description of Nathanael true also of you. “Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” (John 1:47).
Live a life pleasing to your Holy Father and be blessed.
Praise the Lord!
www.bibletourwithjoline.com
www.bibletourwithjoline.blogspot.com
www.bibletouravecjoline.blogspot.com
Many times when we talk and think negative we aren't even conscious of it. When things in life don't turn out for the best it could be because of the way you talk and/or the way you think. What kind of conversations are you having with others? What kind of conversations are you having with yourself? Are you using positive or negative thoughts? The Bible warns us about the danger of ungodly thoughts. It is vital that we keep our minds in agreement with God’s plan and promises.
How do you train your mind to think Godly-thoughts?
1. You can learn to view yourself primarily as God sees you, as his child born-again and citizen of heaven. A child worth dying for (John 3:16).
2. Try to seek first the rule of God in your life, and He will provide for your needs as stated in Matthew 6:33
3. Guard your mind from the influence of the world (beware what we let you let your eyes see on television). Guard both your eyes and mind from worldly influence. Having a friendship with the world is being an enemy of God's. (James 4:4)
4. Be in God's Word so that when a sinful thought comes to your mind (a temptation), you will be able to recognize it and know what appropriate course of action to take. Jesus was tempted but responded to each of Satan's temptation with Scripture. As we do our part the Holy Spirit will assume His position. To be a Christian is to be one with Christ meaning we share His vision and agree with Him about what’s good and evil.
5. Lastly and most importantly, I do not know whether you have already placed your faith in Christ as Savior from your sin or not. This is where you absolutely must start! Without this, there can be no victory over sinful thoughts and temptations and His promises for his children are not for you; nor is the Holy Spirit’s power available to you! Being born again is a must. Turn your life over to God. Acknowledge the truth of Christ.
The Bible is full of truth about the importance of controlling our minds:(2 Cor. 11:2-3), (Rom. 8:5-7), (2 Cor. 10:4-5), (Rom. 1:28), and Colossians 3:1-3 to mention just a few. The person you will be in the future is a direct result of what you are thinking right now. If you don’t like where you’re headed, begin to think godly, positive thoughts, and God will change your destiny. Remember God knows what goes on the inside of you and He sees in the dark. You outside does not impress Him. “In what secret place may a man take cover without my seeing him? says the Lord. Is there any place in heaven or earth where I am not? says the Lord”. Jeremiah 23:24
May God richly bless you as you seek to honor Him with what matters most to Him: who you are inside and not just what you appear to be to others. May God make Jesus’ description of Nathanael true also of you. “Jesus saw Nathanael coming to Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!” (John 1:47).
Live a life pleasing to your Holy Father and be blessed.
Praise the Lord!
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