Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
Matthew 5:6
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I believe we, brothers and sisters are familiar with this passage of scripture. Here is part of the beginning of Christ's Sermon on the Mount. These here are referred to as the beatitudes.The word beatitude means blessed coming from the Latin word beatus hence the beatitudes. Last Friday what a blessing it was to be among brethren to enjoy sharing testimonies and worshiping the living God. As we sang one of the worship songs it got me thinking about this beatitude. Then again Monday night I thought about it once again and as I was just washing dishes this verse was once again impressed upon my heart. So brethren I pray and hope this encourages you.
As our dear Lord and Saviour spoke these very words look at what He said blessed are they which hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Those who hunger and thirst. Do you know what it means to hunger and thirst for something. By definition this is a craving or an urgent need for something. Most cases we would use this for food, but friends do you see the language Jesus used here when addressing the people. That those who are blessed are those who hunger for righteousness. This directly relates to when He would later state that He was the manna from Heaven( John 6:33). Of course the pharisees didn't get it and unless converted( Mark 4:12 ) the carnal mind doesn't get it either( 1 Corinthians 2:14 ). What He meant was feasting on the Word of God. In addition Jesus also spoke of those who thirst for righteousness this makes me think of what David wrote in Psalm 42, in verse one of how the Deer was panting for the river brook, so did his soul for God. This is a blessed man whose soul is panting/thirsting after righteousness.
Notice at the end of the verse it says they shall be filled. Now some would gather this means they are filled and they don't ever need anymore. Well, what this means they are satisfied by Him alone,but continue to crave. No where in scripture does it indicate you ever get enough of God and don't want more. In fact what I read is men and women who desire more and more fellowship with God. Think about the Apostle Paul his life was all about spreading the gospel, he carried more about God than his own life. Talk about hungering and thirsting for righteousness. It cost him his life,but it didn't matter, cause as it is written, " For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. ( 1 Corinthians 2:2 )" That is desire and passion for God.
Friends on Monday night I missed reading in the Word and I can not begin to tell you how hungry I went to bed. Granted I ate three meals( breakfast,lunch, and dinner), but missing a day in His Word left me hungry that night. To some that may sound odd or even strange. To me I can't stand missing a day. For as it is written man can not live by bread alone,but by every word that comes from God's mouth( Deuteronomy 8:3, Matthew 4:4 ). I can miss a meal and granted some would say John you have lost enough weight you don't want to do that. I'd say thank you for your concern, but I'd leave that to God,but missing nourishment for my soul is quite another. Granted there is no requirement or set on how much you should be in it, but I ask why would you not want to be in it daily. What would keep you from it? What is more important than His Word ? For as it is written, " Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. ( Matthew 6:33 ) " This should be the attitude of the believer God first and foremost. Brethren I encourage you to spend more time being nourished in His Word and grow in Him. Remember there is nothing and I mean nothing in this world that satisfies like Him.
May I leave you with this word from the Word from the Apostle Paul's letter to Timothy.
" Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. " (2 Timothy 2:15)
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Saturday, July 25, 2009
All This Grace, Doesn't Mean A License To Sin ( Romans 6:1-2 )
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?
God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
Romans 6:1-2
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Brothers and sisters good evening. I do believe we are all familiar with this passage, but today as I was speaking with someone, in fact it seems this very passage doesn't seem to come across to some who profess Christ. They seem to think for some reason that Jesus will love them no matter what we do and how we live.What really bothered me and really did more so break my heart was what they justified in their life. Well, let me try my best to explain. The Apostle Paul here addresses in verse one if we have all this grace shall we continue in sin? Well, I think any sensible and knowledgeable Christian who has read their bible would say and like the Apostle states No!
Granted we have this grace,but it in no way gives us a license to sin. Instead we can look at it with such gratitude that He shows us such mercy daily. I think of how I don't measure up daily, no matter how much I seek to conform myself I know I wanna do better and can always do better. I'm honest with myself and realize I haven't obtained perfection and in no way allow this to get me down or leave me in a state of complacency. Instead I seek Him in prayer asking Him to lead me, teach me and guide me daily. Not to mention I even ask for His correction if I have been wrong and teach me from my error. For I know when He corrects me He is showing me love. For as it is written, "For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth ( Proverbs 3:12 )"
Think about the Apostle Paul's response in verse 2, first off he responds to the question he presented in the opening of chapter 6 with a resounding no. Of course his no is much stronger in it is commandment to not do it. He goes on to explain why. For we, those who have been born again are dead to sin. Do you know what that means to be dead to sin? This means it no longer holds dominion over you as it once did. This means just it means your dead to it. This doesn't mean you never sin again. That kind of thinking is ignorant, instead to be dead to sin is you are dead to the passion of loving sin.
Let me share with you my life(briefly) and I hope this will encourage and explain it to you. Before coming to Christ I was in love with myself and things of sin. I loved to party and basically if you listed the ten commandments I'm pretty sure I broke them and with a smile. Friends this is a picture of the sinner I was. Then fast forward to July 2007 I met Jesus, but honestly He found me.That very night the man who once broke God's law seeks in every way to obey Him.I'm not perfect,but in no way does that allow to get me down nor get me in a state of complacency. No this only motivates and encourages me to press on. For as it is written, " Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:( Philippians 1:6 )" The things which God hates I now hate and things in which He loves I love and am growing to love deeper. See friends to be conformed to the image of His son daily is to grow in holiness and to be like Him. Do not be conformed this world. I promise their is nothing in this life that will satisfy you. Nothing!
Brothers and sisters I plead with you God has shown us such grace don't provoke Him. Don't think this grace is a means in which we can live how we want. Remember we live to glorify Him. I'm not being harsh, know this brethren it takes a lot of love to write this. It just seems to me in this age brethren that discernment and examining content of what we watch and read needs to be thought on. Think about it? Does what you watch bring His name glory and praise? To him who knows good and does not it is sin( James 4:17 ). Think on that if we know better and do not are we not guilty?
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
Romans 6:1-2
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Brothers and sisters good evening. I do believe we are all familiar with this passage, but today as I was speaking with someone, in fact it seems this very passage doesn't seem to come across to some who profess Christ. They seem to think for some reason that Jesus will love them no matter what we do and how we live.What really bothered me and really did more so break my heart was what they justified in their life. Well, let me try my best to explain. The Apostle Paul here addresses in verse one if we have all this grace shall we continue in sin? Well, I think any sensible and knowledgeable Christian who has read their bible would say and like the Apostle states No!
Granted we have this grace,but it in no way gives us a license to sin. Instead we can look at it with such gratitude that He shows us such mercy daily. I think of how I don't measure up daily, no matter how much I seek to conform myself I know I wanna do better and can always do better. I'm honest with myself and realize I haven't obtained perfection and in no way allow this to get me down or leave me in a state of complacency. Instead I seek Him in prayer asking Him to lead me, teach me and guide me daily. Not to mention I even ask for His correction if I have been wrong and teach me from my error. For I know when He corrects me He is showing me love. For as it is written, "For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth ( Proverbs 3:12 )"
Think about the Apostle Paul's response in verse 2, first off he responds to the question he presented in the opening of chapter 6 with a resounding no. Of course his no is much stronger in it is commandment to not do it. He goes on to explain why. For we, those who have been born again are dead to sin. Do you know what that means to be dead to sin? This means it no longer holds dominion over you as it once did. This means just it means your dead to it. This doesn't mean you never sin again. That kind of thinking is ignorant, instead to be dead to sin is you are dead to the passion of loving sin.
Let me share with you my life(briefly) and I hope this will encourage and explain it to you. Before coming to Christ I was in love with myself and things of sin. I loved to party and basically if you listed the ten commandments I'm pretty sure I broke them and with a smile. Friends this is a picture of the sinner I was. Then fast forward to July 2007 I met Jesus, but honestly He found me.That very night the man who once broke God's law seeks in every way to obey Him.I'm not perfect,but in no way does that allow to get me down nor get me in a state of complacency. No this only motivates and encourages me to press on. For as it is written, " Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:( Philippians 1:6 )" The things which God hates I now hate and things in which He loves I love and am growing to love deeper. See friends to be conformed to the image of His son daily is to grow in holiness and to be like Him. Do not be conformed this world. I promise their is nothing in this life that will satisfy you. Nothing!
Brothers and sisters I plead with you God has shown us such grace don't provoke Him. Don't think this grace is a means in which we can live how we want. Remember we live to glorify Him. I'm not being harsh, know this brethren it takes a lot of love to write this. It just seems to me in this age brethren that discernment and examining content of what we watch and read needs to be thought on. Think about it? Does what you watch bring His name glory and praise? To him who knows good and does not it is sin( James 4:17 ). Think on that if we know better and do not are we not guilty?
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
A Woman Who Fears The Lord: Now That Is Beautiful ( Proverbs 31:30 )
Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
Proverbs 31:30
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Well, tonight this text as you can see is obviously about women. Now with that statement I'm sure that might stir up thoughts of well, I'm a guy guess I don't need to read this or I'm a lady and that sounds insulting. To respond to both this is both encouraging for you both. You know I've read the 31st chapter of proverbs before, but I tell you those very qualities are what young ladies should be striving for in their walk with Christ and what mature women of faith should continue in. You know I've mentioned to a couple sisters that I'm waiting on a proverbs 31:10 women. No joke, I'm serious being patient and waiting on God's best. The absolute qualities you have described in proverbs 31, starting at verse 10 and going through verse 30. I admire women who take being a proverbs 31 women serious.
Now moving into the text tonight, first off it says favour or in other translations charm is deceitful. Amazing in today's culture physical attraction is highly praised and saluted. In fact at a very young age our children are taught to catch the opposite sex attention by how they look. This is disgusting because obviously it devalues the person,but more importantly it puts the central focus on self. When they do that and they become the center point of their lives or that person who they want their attention so bad they have made idols in their lives. You may think I am being extreme. Now friends it is one thing to make a good impression, but it is certainly different to become overwhelmed in it. Remember you are to have no other god before Him( Exodus 20:3 ).
Next it goes on to say beauty is vain. As we know the word vain means worthless. It does truly amaze me how much people spend on "beauty" products. They go to such extremes and spend so much and for what? Now I know I'm probably going to get some hard remarks from females. What I'm referencing to is the overindulgence to it. Once again why is the emphasis on you? Do you realize you could buy very minimal and still look just fine. I remember a girl I dated a few years back and granted I was not the man I am now, but even then I realized something she looked just fine to me without all the "paint". What I'm trying to say is I believe too often people get wrapped up in the latest fads and this can range from make-up to types of clothes. Instead of being consumed in it be consumed by God and let His light shine through you. Let your inner beauty shine through. Do you read anywhere in those passage in Proverbs 31 about how this virtuous woman looks great with the latest lipstick or man I love her earrings. Sisters know this I'm not being mean spirited or attacking you. I'm encouraging you be a woman after His heart.
It continues on with a woman that fears the Lord, and then ends with she shall be praised. I can't begin to even tell you how attractive that sounds to me. A woman who fears the Lord. She recognizes the very attributes of who He is and lives in reverences to Him. Her very life is marked by growing in holiness and desiring to serve Him in all that she does. You can clearly see this from other verses in proverbs 31. Did you know that a wife submits to her husband not because she is inferior or cause she isn't important,but in reverence to God( Ephesians 5:21-22 ).
Sisters I encourage you as read this to live modestly. What really touches my heart is a sister who loves God so much that it is her inner beauty that shines above all. Let me state again this is not an attack,but encouragement. Guys read Proverbs 31 alongside 1 Corinthians 13. Understand before you even consider the altar and I do, know this do you understand true love and do you know what you want in a woman. Remember what the Apostle Paul said to the men at the church at Corinth, " Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. Let all your things be done with charity. (1 Corinthians 16:13-14 ) " His instructions were clear be a man and do everything with love. So yes tonight my message was mostly for my sisters, but brothers considers this is the women your interested have the characteristics of a proverbs 31 woman? Can you say that or does she seem so caught up in vanity of this world ?
I leave you my brethren with the words of our dear Lord and Saviour as encouragement.
" But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. "
Matthew 6:33
Proverbs 31:30
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Well, tonight this text as you can see is obviously about women. Now with that statement I'm sure that might stir up thoughts of well, I'm a guy guess I don't need to read this or I'm a lady and that sounds insulting. To respond to both this is both encouraging for you both. You know I've read the 31st chapter of proverbs before, but I tell you those very qualities are what young ladies should be striving for in their walk with Christ and what mature women of faith should continue in. You know I've mentioned to a couple sisters that I'm waiting on a proverbs 31:10 women. No joke, I'm serious being patient and waiting on God's best. The absolute qualities you have described in proverbs 31, starting at verse 10 and going through verse 30. I admire women who take being a proverbs 31 women serious.
Now moving into the text tonight, first off it says favour or in other translations charm is deceitful. Amazing in today's culture physical attraction is highly praised and saluted. In fact at a very young age our children are taught to catch the opposite sex attention by how they look. This is disgusting because obviously it devalues the person,but more importantly it puts the central focus on self. When they do that and they become the center point of their lives or that person who they want their attention so bad they have made idols in their lives. You may think I am being extreme. Now friends it is one thing to make a good impression, but it is certainly different to become overwhelmed in it. Remember you are to have no other god before Him( Exodus 20:3 ).
Next it goes on to say beauty is vain. As we know the word vain means worthless. It does truly amaze me how much people spend on "beauty" products. They go to such extremes and spend so much and for what? Now I know I'm probably going to get some hard remarks from females. What I'm referencing to is the overindulgence to it. Once again why is the emphasis on you? Do you realize you could buy very minimal and still look just fine. I remember a girl I dated a few years back and granted I was not the man I am now, but even then I realized something she looked just fine to me without all the "paint". What I'm trying to say is I believe too often people get wrapped up in the latest fads and this can range from make-up to types of clothes. Instead of being consumed in it be consumed by God and let His light shine through you. Let your inner beauty shine through. Do you read anywhere in those passage in Proverbs 31 about how this virtuous woman looks great with the latest lipstick or man I love her earrings. Sisters know this I'm not being mean spirited or attacking you. I'm encouraging you be a woman after His heart.
It continues on with a woman that fears the Lord, and then ends with she shall be praised. I can't begin to even tell you how attractive that sounds to me. A woman who fears the Lord. She recognizes the very attributes of who He is and lives in reverences to Him. Her very life is marked by growing in holiness and desiring to serve Him in all that she does. You can clearly see this from other verses in proverbs 31. Did you know that a wife submits to her husband not because she is inferior or cause she isn't important,but in reverence to God( Ephesians 5:21-22 ).
Sisters I encourage you as read this to live modestly. What really touches my heart is a sister who loves God so much that it is her inner beauty that shines above all. Let me state again this is not an attack,but encouragement. Guys read Proverbs 31 alongside 1 Corinthians 13. Understand before you even consider the altar and I do, know this do you understand true love and do you know what you want in a woman. Remember what the Apostle Paul said to the men at the church at Corinth, " Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. Let all your things be done with charity. (1 Corinthians 16:13-14 ) " His instructions were clear be a man and do everything with love. So yes tonight my message was mostly for my sisters, but brothers considers this is the women your interested have the characteristics of a proverbs 31 woman? Can you say that or does she seem so caught up in vanity of this world ?
I leave you my brethren with the words of our dear Lord and Saviour as encouragement.
" But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. "
Matthew 6:33
Monday, July 20, 2009
Let Both Thought And Speech Be Acceptable In HIS Sight ( Psalm 19:14 )
Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.
Psalm 19:14
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Granted tonight this text comes at the end of the Psalm I do believe it to be quite a profound verse. To me when I read it, it really makes me think as does all scripture. See when we as believers read the Word of God it should impact us in that we take Him at His Word. Think about what this verse states let the words of my mouth and the mediation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight O Lord. Before I continue think about what the psalmist is saying here that he is wanting both what he says and thinks to be acceptable before God. Friends think of that? Do you consider what you said today or recently has it been pleasing in His sight? Now I'm not saying be paranoid,but I am saying we do need to seek to please Him in all we do and this does include our speech. Think of what it says in the Apostle Paul's epistle to the church at Ephesus, " Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. ( Ephesians 4:29 ) " In another translation it says unwholesome speech, another words friends when we speak just as this passage indicates it should minister grace and edify or build up others. This completely correlates with what the psalmists is stating by being acceptable in the sight of the Lord.
Now I'm sure some would say well, what about meditations/thoughts? I'm sure they would say how can one make sure these are acceptable in His sight. I have a very easy and honest answer. You must constantly renew and nourish your mind in the scriptures. Think about it my friends what will you be on your mind if your in the scriptures daily? Might I give you an example of my own life and how continual time and devotion to time in His Word has done this for me. Friends I barely have a moment daily in which I think not of Him. What runs through my mind and in my time of communion with Him is thinking on scripture I've read recently or verses in which He brings to my remembrance. He has done this for me in times when I need His comfort and confirm others through scripture. Not only this,but I consider scripture when I think on all things, even as I eat dinner. Believe me when I sing in praise and worship He is my everything I mean it. I am learning daily what it means to be consumed by Him daily. So my advice you fill your self with good and out comes good. Remember it is out of the heart where the issues of life come( Proverbs 4:23 ) and Jesus spoke on this when confronted by the pharisees about His disciples not washing their hands before eating( Matthew 15:10-20 ) .
Before I knew Christ I could say very few of my meditations were acceptable in His sight, not to mention my speech. You know thinking on my speech it is amazing how the Lord has changed it. Before I came to Christ while I may have seemed like a nice guy my speech would have showed anything the sort. In some public arenas it would seem I was a nice guy,but others I had a foul mouth. Praise God for changing me. Now the sin I used to love I abhor. Friends the more I grow in Him, the more I become thankful of Him saving me and changing me. This I believe is the attitude of the believer to have an attitude of gratitude for the work He has,is and will continue to do in your life. For as it is written, "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: ( Philippians 1:6 ) "
Continuing on in this verse the psalmist, David writes of the Lord as his strength and redeemer. First we have that the Lord is our strength. So many times in the Psalms as we read the Lord is referred to our strength and oh the very truth in it. I can't begin to count the times in which it has been by His strength I have endured. I've made mention of this before,but back in November of last year when my grandmother was in the hospital it was Him who upheld me by His strength. I can truly declare this for by other no means did I make it through. Nearly a half a year later and she is fine and still here. David also declares the Lord to be his redeemer. Job( Job 19:25 ) also declares and we as believers can declare this as well for Christ redeemed His people( Galatians 3:13 ) when He went to Calvary. On that tree He took the wrath of God and laid His life down for His people/the church( Isaiah 53:5,2 Corinthians 5:21,1 Peter 2:24,Ephesians 5:25 ).
Brethren be encouraged throughout your daily walk to seek to please Him both in your thoughts and speech. Granted we know we aren't perfect,but in no means leave this as an excuse. Instead seek to conform yourself to the image of Christ daily. Pray for His strength for as it is written, " I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me( Philippians 4:13 ). " Here is something that often comes to mind in prayer, I ask for Him to guide me, lead me, teach me, correct me, preserve me, and strengthen me. Do you notice something? A total dependence on Him and a recognizing just as the Apostle Paul that I haven't obtained perfection( Philippians 3:13 ),but I press on toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus( Philippians 3:14 ).
Be encouraged to press on and run the race with patience. Don't lose heart my brethren.I leave you with words from our Lord and Saviour.
"For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. "
Matthew 16:25
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Psalm 19:14
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Granted tonight this text comes at the end of the Psalm I do believe it to be quite a profound verse. To me when I read it, it really makes me think as does all scripture. See when we as believers read the Word of God it should impact us in that we take Him at His Word. Think about what this verse states let the words of my mouth and the mediation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight O Lord. Before I continue think about what the psalmist is saying here that he is wanting both what he says and thinks to be acceptable before God. Friends think of that? Do you consider what you said today or recently has it been pleasing in His sight? Now I'm not saying be paranoid,but I am saying we do need to seek to please Him in all we do and this does include our speech. Think of what it says in the Apostle Paul's epistle to the church at Ephesus, " Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. ( Ephesians 4:29 ) " In another translation it says unwholesome speech, another words friends when we speak just as this passage indicates it should minister grace and edify or build up others. This completely correlates with what the psalmists is stating by being acceptable in the sight of the Lord.
Now I'm sure some would say well, what about meditations/thoughts? I'm sure they would say how can one make sure these are acceptable in His sight. I have a very easy and honest answer. You must constantly renew and nourish your mind in the scriptures. Think about it my friends what will you be on your mind if your in the scriptures daily? Might I give you an example of my own life and how continual time and devotion to time in His Word has done this for me. Friends I barely have a moment daily in which I think not of Him. What runs through my mind and in my time of communion with Him is thinking on scripture I've read recently or verses in which He brings to my remembrance. He has done this for me in times when I need His comfort and confirm others through scripture. Not only this,but I consider scripture when I think on all things, even as I eat dinner. Believe me when I sing in praise and worship He is my everything I mean it. I am learning daily what it means to be consumed by Him daily. So my advice you fill your self with good and out comes good. Remember it is out of the heart where the issues of life come( Proverbs 4:23 ) and Jesus spoke on this when confronted by the pharisees about His disciples not washing their hands before eating( Matthew 15:10-20 ) .
Before I knew Christ I could say very few of my meditations were acceptable in His sight, not to mention my speech. You know thinking on my speech it is amazing how the Lord has changed it. Before I came to Christ while I may have seemed like a nice guy my speech would have showed anything the sort. In some public arenas it would seem I was a nice guy,but others I had a foul mouth. Praise God for changing me. Now the sin I used to love I abhor. Friends the more I grow in Him, the more I become thankful of Him saving me and changing me. This I believe is the attitude of the believer to have an attitude of gratitude for the work He has,is and will continue to do in your life. For as it is written, "Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: ( Philippians 1:6 ) "
Continuing on in this verse the psalmist, David writes of the Lord as his strength and redeemer. First we have that the Lord is our strength. So many times in the Psalms as we read the Lord is referred to our strength and oh the very truth in it. I can't begin to count the times in which it has been by His strength I have endured. I've made mention of this before,but back in November of last year when my grandmother was in the hospital it was Him who upheld me by His strength. I can truly declare this for by other no means did I make it through. Nearly a half a year later and she is fine and still here. David also declares the Lord to be his redeemer. Job( Job 19:25 ) also declares and we as believers can declare this as well for Christ redeemed His people( Galatians 3:13 ) when He went to Calvary. On that tree He took the wrath of God and laid His life down for His people/the church( Isaiah 53:5,2 Corinthians 5:21,1 Peter 2:24,Ephesians 5:25 ).
Brethren be encouraged throughout your daily walk to seek to please Him both in your thoughts and speech. Granted we know we aren't perfect,but in no means leave this as an excuse. Instead seek to conform yourself to the image of Christ daily. Pray for His strength for as it is written, " I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me( Philippians 4:13 ). " Here is something that often comes to mind in prayer, I ask for Him to guide me, lead me, teach me, correct me, preserve me, and strengthen me. Do you notice something? A total dependence on Him and a recognizing just as the Apostle Paul that I haven't obtained perfection( Philippians 3:13 ),but I press on toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus( Philippians 3:14 ).
Be encouraged to press on and run the race with patience. Don't lose heart my brethren.I leave you with words from our Lord and Saviour.
"For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. "
Matthew 16:25
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Preach The Word: In Season & Out Of Season ( 2 Timothy 4:2-4 )
Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
2 Timothy 4:2-4
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Good evening. Well, I do believe this text from scripture is familiar to most if not all Christians. In this current age we truly are seeing or at least a gross exploit of greater degree verses 3 and 4. What really does shock me and yet at the same time doesn't is there are those who call themselves Christian yet don't see it? I know that may sound confusing,but I'd say it is we who do see it and are literally waving our hands saying can't you see it and they just have that deer in the head light look. To me I can relate in some degree of measure to how the Apostle Paul felt in Romans 9 when he states, " That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.( Romans 9:2 ) " This my friends is compassion, but at the same realizes this is just as the scriptures indicates would happen. Now does this mean we get lazy and do absolutely nothing? No, this means we take action by fighting the good fight of faith.
Well, now I get into the passages from which the Apostle Paul is writing to Timothy and as we all know this is his last letter before his death/execution in Rome. Despite knowing that for him sharing the gospel and defending the faith it has ultimately led him to this. That by being devoted to the faith it means now death stands before him I love the words he gives Timothy. He says, " Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. ( 2 Timothy 2 4:2 ) " First off he states preach the Word. Friends as Christians we have a call to proclaim His Word to all of creation. This can come by a number of means, by reading His Word, sharing gospel tracts, sharing the Word via your testimony, and even get this living it out in your life. I often think of Stephen( Acts 7:54-60 ) when I think of a living testimony despite knowing he was dying, despite being reviled and not being well thought he continued to be a living testimony through the very act of being stoned to death. In fact he even asked that their sins not be laid on them( Acts 7:60 ). Stephen recognized fully it was the Lord who avenges His own and would save those whom He will. How powerful a living testimony is and truly Stephen showed as I do believe he sowed the seed in Saul's life and later that same man, became the Apostle to the gentiles.
Continuing on with this verse he states be instant in season and out of season. Another words preach the Word always even when truth is not popular and even when times are not safe. You know you could get on public television today and say God loves you and no one would complain. Now you start talking about genuine repentance,the wrath of God, and what sin is and I guarantee they would ask you to leave. No, I'm sure they would vehemently tell to leave and not come back. More than likely you would be blacklisted and as I've stated before considered unloving, judgmental, and get this narrow minded. Brothers and sisters we need to be ready in season and out of season. Stand firm on the Word and share the gospel for the truth it presents. Don't care about being politically correct instead stand for truth. Remember we seek not to please men, for if we do we are not the servants of Christ( Galatians 1:10 ).
Paul goes on in this verse with reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. Meaning well first lets explain the words. First we have the word reprove. To reprove is to test. Now I know and granted most will say well, Paul was speaking to Timothy and this must only be for ministers. Wrong, while ministers/pastors should take hold to these with much sincerity. This too should to taken with sincerity to the individual believer as well. See when preaching the Word which is part of the great commission we must prove all things( 1 Thessalonians 5:21 ). This is not something merely imparted to the overseer,but to every believer. Granted there is a greater weight of responsibility for the pastor,but that in no way leaves the individual believer held unaccountable. We as Christians are all His witnesses. The next word we have is to rebuke. Friends I'd say rebuking the brethren is probably when we honestly have to do it is not easy. Think of how much love it takes to criticize your brethren biblically. Notice I did say biblically. Another thing to consider when you rebuke the brethren you follow through in love, biblical love and with the right intent. I'd venture to say that a majority of times why arguments or disagreements even happens between brothers and sisters is not because someone doesn't have a valid point, its because emotions run and when that occurs the improper intent can step in. This too many times can lead to pride entering in and well, we know where it goes from there. The third word is exhort, to exhort is to advise. Think about this when giving your brothers or sisters advise don't see what Dr. Phil says, instead give them biblical advise. If you don't feel knowledgeable in a particular area in which they are asking you on then direct them to someone who can. The point I am addressing here is biblically advising them don't say well, I heard this on tv and man it sounded great. I'd have to ask them did you test it by scripture. Honestly why is that we say we trust God and believe in His Word yet we run in about a million directions for advice when we have all we need in His Holy Writ.
Continuing on with this verse and following these three words the Apostle says to do them with longsuffering and doctrine. Alright now that in itself says quite a bit. To reprove, rebuke, and exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. Might I say to advise believers some advise would be those words I'm sure they would look at me like what? To reprove with longsuffering, this means simply what it says friends to test with patience. It most surely is as the Apostle John writes in his epistles about testing the spirits( 1 John 4:1 ). Your going to know who are of and who aren't. Friends does an apple tree bear anything,but apples? No, the same goes in this area for our discernment. With longsuffering we need to prove all thing. So then you ask how do we prove all things by doctrine. You know it is amazing how I barely hear this word talked about in churches. Unless they read it in a passage of scripture they don't want to mention it. The truth be known, doctrine does matter cause the Apostle Paul mentioned it a number of times about sound doctrine. So when proving we must do so with patience and with doctrine (teaching). "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.( 1 Thessalonians 5:21 )" This same can be done with rebuking, when we rebuke we must do so in love. After all to do so with longsuffering shows great love in itself. I would say brethren to read 1 Corinthians 13 along side Matthew 18 would be a good thing to do. Not to mention Psalm 94:12 and Proverbs 3:11-12. Now you may say those verses in both psalms and proverbs both mention of the Lord. Well, yes they do,but I've had the Lord use brethren to rebuke me when I've been in the wrong. To have the humility to admit your wrong to see the err in it and move forward is good and is growing in Him. Sometimes as young Christians we make rash statements not meaning to and I'm ever thankful for those who are mature and maturing as I am as well to help me.Thank God they love me enough to correct me. Like I've stated before we never stop growing, for one to reach a point and say I'm here, I've got it and there is nothing left is arrogance and you might as well be just asking God to knock you out from under your feet. Sounds harsh,but it is true. Lastly to exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine, like I said before when advising your brethren do so biblically. If they have relationship advice don't see what the television says or the gossip lines have, check the scriptures. Believe it or not, but while scripture may not say the words dating or courting specifically it does give us conduct how to treat each other. This we can apply to those arenas in the dating realm. You know for me just reading 1 Corinthians 13, might I add numerous times has taught me plenty more than I ever thought I knew about love. By understanding the nature of true love which is God. I've come to better grasp how I should treat a lady. In that understanding of love I seek to have the pure sense of love, now granted I'm not perfect,but my striving to conform to the image of Christ is going to make me a better man and one day a better father/husband. With that said 1 Corinthians 13 is one of numerous places in scripture where you can give exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For it is doctrine/teaching and true love suffers long.
Next I will combine verses 3 and 4. Together they give us a picture of today often referred to as the latter times. Truly we are living in those times. No longer are men adhering to sound doctrine. We know this due to vast amounts of prosperity gospel that is running a muck. What amazes me is how people take this gospel for gospel truth. Like you can get to a point in your walk where you won't suffer. I guess somehow they exclude the verse that all who shall live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution( 2 Timothy 3:12 ) . That to me sounds like all saints will endure suffering. Now this doesn't mean we won't have some good times, it just means exactly what it means we will endure persecution. To think you will get to a point in your walk where you will be above what the Lord had to endure is absolutely absurd. Somehow people think your supposed to have your best life now, well, if being hated, persecuted and mocked is that then I suppose so. Worst of all brothers and sisters these false teachers are going to gather to themselves others like them. In addition they will appear to be christian and well, that is as far as it gets. For as the scriptures indicate wolves in sheep's clothing( Matthew 7:15, Matthew 24:11 ).
Brethren be aware of the times we are living in. Preach the Word in and out of season. Don't look for the esteem of man. Worry not for even your safety instead make the gospel the most important thing to you. Think about Stephen did he care about dying when he spoke? No he spoke in boldness and in truth. Be encouraged with the words of the Apostle Paul that he gave to Timothy in his first letter.
"Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses"
(1 Timothy 6:12 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;
And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
2 Timothy 4:2-4
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Good evening. Well, I do believe this text from scripture is familiar to most if not all Christians. In this current age we truly are seeing or at least a gross exploit of greater degree verses 3 and 4. What really does shock me and yet at the same time doesn't is there are those who call themselves Christian yet don't see it? I know that may sound confusing,but I'd say it is we who do see it and are literally waving our hands saying can't you see it and they just have that deer in the head light look. To me I can relate in some degree of measure to how the Apostle Paul felt in Romans 9 when he states, " That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart.( Romans 9:2 ) " This my friends is compassion, but at the same realizes this is just as the scriptures indicates would happen. Now does this mean we get lazy and do absolutely nothing? No, this means we take action by fighting the good fight of faith.
Well, now I get into the passages from which the Apostle Paul is writing to Timothy and as we all know this is his last letter before his death/execution in Rome. Despite knowing that for him sharing the gospel and defending the faith it has ultimately led him to this. That by being devoted to the faith it means now death stands before him I love the words he gives Timothy. He says, " Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. ( 2 Timothy 2 4:2 ) " First off he states preach the Word. Friends as Christians we have a call to proclaim His Word to all of creation. This can come by a number of means, by reading His Word, sharing gospel tracts, sharing the Word via your testimony, and even get this living it out in your life. I often think of Stephen( Acts 7:54-60 ) when I think of a living testimony despite knowing he was dying, despite being reviled and not being well thought he continued to be a living testimony through the very act of being stoned to death. In fact he even asked that their sins not be laid on them( Acts 7:60 ). Stephen recognized fully it was the Lord who avenges His own and would save those whom He will. How powerful a living testimony is and truly Stephen showed as I do believe he sowed the seed in Saul's life and later that same man, became the Apostle to the gentiles.
Continuing on with this verse he states be instant in season and out of season. Another words preach the Word always even when truth is not popular and even when times are not safe. You know you could get on public television today and say God loves you and no one would complain. Now you start talking about genuine repentance,the wrath of God, and what sin is and I guarantee they would ask you to leave. No, I'm sure they would vehemently tell to leave and not come back. More than likely you would be blacklisted and as I've stated before considered unloving, judgmental, and get this narrow minded. Brothers and sisters we need to be ready in season and out of season. Stand firm on the Word and share the gospel for the truth it presents. Don't care about being politically correct instead stand for truth. Remember we seek not to please men, for if we do we are not the servants of Christ( Galatians 1:10 ).
Paul goes on in this verse with reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. Meaning well first lets explain the words. First we have the word reprove. To reprove is to test. Now I know and granted most will say well, Paul was speaking to Timothy and this must only be for ministers. Wrong, while ministers/pastors should take hold to these with much sincerity. This too should to taken with sincerity to the individual believer as well. See when preaching the Word which is part of the great commission we must prove all things( 1 Thessalonians 5:21 ). This is not something merely imparted to the overseer,but to every believer. Granted there is a greater weight of responsibility for the pastor,but that in no way leaves the individual believer held unaccountable. We as Christians are all His witnesses. The next word we have is to rebuke. Friends I'd say rebuking the brethren is probably when we honestly have to do it is not easy. Think of how much love it takes to criticize your brethren biblically. Notice I did say biblically. Another thing to consider when you rebuke the brethren you follow through in love, biblical love and with the right intent. I'd venture to say that a majority of times why arguments or disagreements even happens between brothers and sisters is not because someone doesn't have a valid point, its because emotions run and when that occurs the improper intent can step in. This too many times can lead to pride entering in and well, we know where it goes from there. The third word is exhort, to exhort is to advise. Think about this when giving your brothers or sisters advise don't see what Dr. Phil says, instead give them biblical advise. If you don't feel knowledgeable in a particular area in which they are asking you on then direct them to someone who can. The point I am addressing here is biblically advising them don't say well, I heard this on tv and man it sounded great. I'd have to ask them did you test it by scripture. Honestly why is that we say we trust God and believe in His Word yet we run in about a million directions for advice when we have all we need in His Holy Writ.
Continuing on with this verse and following these three words the Apostle says to do them with longsuffering and doctrine. Alright now that in itself says quite a bit. To reprove, rebuke, and exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. Might I say to advise believers some advise would be those words I'm sure they would look at me like what? To reprove with longsuffering, this means simply what it says friends to test with patience. It most surely is as the Apostle John writes in his epistles about testing the spirits( 1 John 4:1 ). Your going to know who are of and who aren't. Friends does an apple tree bear anything,but apples? No, the same goes in this area for our discernment. With longsuffering we need to prove all thing. So then you ask how do we prove all things by doctrine. You know it is amazing how I barely hear this word talked about in churches. Unless they read it in a passage of scripture they don't want to mention it. The truth be known, doctrine does matter cause the Apostle Paul mentioned it a number of times about sound doctrine. So when proving we must do so with patience and with doctrine (teaching). "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.( 1 Thessalonians 5:21 )" This same can be done with rebuking, when we rebuke we must do so in love. After all to do so with longsuffering shows great love in itself. I would say brethren to read 1 Corinthians 13 along side Matthew 18 would be a good thing to do. Not to mention Psalm 94:12 and Proverbs 3:11-12. Now you may say those verses in both psalms and proverbs both mention of the Lord. Well, yes they do,but I've had the Lord use brethren to rebuke me when I've been in the wrong. To have the humility to admit your wrong to see the err in it and move forward is good and is growing in Him. Sometimes as young Christians we make rash statements not meaning to and I'm ever thankful for those who are mature and maturing as I am as well to help me.Thank God they love me enough to correct me. Like I've stated before we never stop growing, for one to reach a point and say I'm here, I've got it and there is nothing left is arrogance and you might as well be just asking God to knock you out from under your feet. Sounds harsh,but it is true. Lastly to exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine, like I said before when advising your brethren do so biblically. If they have relationship advice don't see what the television says or the gossip lines have, check the scriptures. Believe it or not, but while scripture may not say the words dating or courting specifically it does give us conduct how to treat each other. This we can apply to those arenas in the dating realm. You know for me just reading 1 Corinthians 13, might I add numerous times has taught me plenty more than I ever thought I knew about love. By understanding the nature of true love which is God. I've come to better grasp how I should treat a lady. In that understanding of love I seek to have the pure sense of love, now granted I'm not perfect,but my striving to conform to the image of Christ is going to make me a better man and one day a better father/husband. With that said 1 Corinthians 13 is one of numerous places in scripture where you can give exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For it is doctrine/teaching and true love suffers long.
Next I will combine verses 3 and 4. Together they give us a picture of today often referred to as the latter times. Truly we are living in those times. No longer are men adhering to sound doctrine. We know this due to vast amounts of prosperity gospel that is running a muck. What amazes me is how people take this gospel for gospel truth. Like you can get to a point in your walk where you won't suffer. I guess somehow they exclude the verse that all who shall live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution( 2 Timothy 3:12 ) . That to me sounds like all saints will endure suffering. Now this doesn't mean we won't have some good times, it just means exactly what it means we will endure persecution. To think you will get to a point in your walk where you will be above what the Lord had to endure is absolutely absurd. Somehow people think your supposed to have your best life now, well, if being hated, persecuted and mocked is that then I suppose so. Worst of all brothers and sisters these false teachers are going to gather to themselves others like them. In addition they will appear to be christian and well, that is as far as it gets. For as the scriptures indicate wolves in sheep's clothing( Matthew 7:15, Matthew 24:11 ).
Brethren be aware of the times we are living in. Preach the Word in and out of season. Don't look for the esteem of man. Worry not for even your safety instead make the gospel the most important thing to you. Think about Stephen did he care about dying when he spoke? No he spoke in boldness and in truth. Be encouraged with the words of the Apostle Paul that he gave to Timothy in his first letter.
"Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses"
(1 Timothy 6:12 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Beloved Think It Not Strange The Trials You Endure ( 1 Peter 4:12-16 )
Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you:
But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.
Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
1 Peter 4:12-16
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Does pain, suffering, or having to endure trials come to mind when you think of Christianity ? If it doesn't it may be cause you have been tuned into a little dose of prosperity gospel, watered down or plainly not the gospel. Did Jesus say hey I've got a message about how life is going to be easy going and no more problems just follow me? No, granted He will be with you every step of the way( Hebrews 13:5 ). We are guaranteed that those who live godly in Christ Jesus shall be persecuted. Now you may say well, the Apostle Paul said that, well take the very words of our Lord and Savior, " And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. ( Matthew 10:22 ) " Yes that sounds to me like a life full of no problems and I'm everybody's friend! Now your saying alright John your previous sentence was satirical. Your right,but the point I'm drawing out is the Christian life is marked by suffering and not a walk in the park. It is not a game, its a battle and a race of endurance.
Now moving into the passages here in 1 Peter, written by the Apostle Peter. I love how Peter opens in verse 12 with beloved as you know this letter is written to brethren so you see why he opens it with beloved. Peter cares for the brethren just as any of us should. We shouldn't be numb to our brothers and sisters,but instead care very dearly. You know often when I can't see my brethren I think of them and do pray for them. They are on my heart and I long to see them. Friends do you understand now what Peter means when he writes beloved. He goes on to write to encourage them to think it not strange the trial they endure. He encourages them as one he knows they are to come to pass. Jesus had shared with His disciples the trials that would come and Peter here is encouraging the early believers to press on and rejoice in it.
He continues in verse 13 by saying that ye are partakers of Christ's suffering. Remember friends Christ was beaten and as it written, " Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also ( John 15:20 ). " To partake in His suffering is to endure suffering and persecution for His name sake. Remember the world will not love you for you are not of the world. Remember as He prayed in the garden of Gethsemane those whom the Father has given Him are not of this world as He isn't and so the world does not love them as it did not love Him. Continuing on with verse,but listen to this joy that Peter shares that when His glory, Christ's glory be revealed we as believers will be joyful. Do you long for the day in which you begin spending eternity with Him? I know I do! As much as I have compassion for those who are lost I can't wait to see the nail scarred hands which saved me. I can't wait to see the captain of my salvation and begin singing forever holy,holy, holy is the lamb. Now some may say you can do that here, but friends this is not my home here. I am,but a pilgrim on my way home. Trying to explain that to someone who is unconverted and lost the joy of going home is to some degree hard cause they just don't grasp the excitement we have. I'm not being holier than thou art, but friends be honest they don't understand things which are spiritual unless converted. Read the parable of the sower and you will see what I mean.
Now looking at verse 14 notice it says ye are happy if they reproach you for the name of Christ for on your part is he glorified and on their part he is evil spoken of. Friends this means when they speak they speak evil is spoken of on their behalf, but on your part He is glorified. Like I've stated before with a verse that is very encouraging to me from the book of Philippians," For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. ( Philippians 1:21 ) " In my life I seek to please Christ daily in everything I do from the moment I wake till I go to bed. Now to some and maybe even most this may sound radical, but friends is this not what our lives should be about. Should we not focus our entire being around giving ourselves to please and glorify God. This means conforming your very thoughts, actions, and speech. I'm not perfect, but by no means giving up on pressing on towards the mark for prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus( Philippians 3:14 ). What I'm saying is I haven't obtained perfection, but not settling for what I am today. I am pursuing God daily and growing in holiness. This means dying daily and asking God what can I do for Him, instead of what can He do for me.
Let us look at verses 15 and 16 together. Friends, brothers and sisters we do not suffer as criminals in this life. What I mean by that is while it may appear so to those who persecute us or attack us. We are simply hated and despised because of who we serve. You know it is amazing how accepting this country is of so many things, but a true bible believing Christian this country wants nothing to do with. You may say that is a harsh statement,but it is true. Friends if I was to walk into a walmart or any local retail store and share the gospel versus what a large portion of churches share they would be angered at me. They would call me unloving, uncaring, and judgmental. Why ? I've said it before men love darkness. So friends, brethren when you suffer and I promise you will the scriptures indicate and confirm this give God the glory. Is that not what verse 16 says let him, the Christian not be ashamed, but let him glorify God. Sounds tough, but I ask you this where do you remember Jesus saying hey follow me and life get's really easy. I made mention of this last night and I feel the need to say it again if you think the Christian life is easy, wrong.
If anything since God changed me and called me I haven't gotten a Rolls Royce nor found a million dollars. What I have found is an abundant life, full everyday. Full of joy, pain, and the ever unfolding will of God in my life. I've come to see that even in absolute rough times how ever present He is and how even in those times I've continued to find my source of joy in Him. He is the very strength which gets me day by day. As it is written I live by faith, not leaning on my own understanding, but trusting in the Lord at all times with all my heart( Habakkuk 2:4, Proverbs 3:5 ).
Be encouraged my brethren that while suffering will come, to give God the glory. I know that may be the toughest thing to do during those times,but friends be a living testimony and instead let them be put to shame and evil be spoken of on their behalf. Another thing to be considered also think of the influence you may have just as Stephen did as he was being stoned( Acts 7:54-60 ). Consider these verses from the Apostle Paul to the church in Rome.
" I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Romans 12:1-2 "
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.
If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters.
Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
1 Peter 4:12-16
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Does pain, suffering, or having to endure trials come to mind when you think of Christianity ? If it doesn't it may be cause you have been tuned into a little dose of prosperity gospel, watered down or plainly not the gospel. Did Jesus say hey I've got a message about how life is going to be easy going and no more problems just follow me? No, granted He will be with you every step of the way( Hebrews 13:5 ). We are guaranteed that those who live godly in Christ Jesus shall be persecuted. Now you may say well, the Apostle Paul said that, well take the very words of our Lord and Savior, " And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. ( Matthew 10:22 ) " Yes that sounds to me like a life full of no problems and I'm everybody's friend! Now your saying alright John your previous sentence was satirical. Your right,but the point I'm drawing out is the Christian life is marked by suffering and not a walk in the park. It is not a game, its a battle and a race of endurance.
Now moving into the passages here in 1 Peter, written by the Apostle Peter. I love how Peter opens in verse 12 with beloved as you know this letter is written to brethren so you see why he opens it with beloved. Peter cares for the brethren just as any of us should. We shouldn't be numb to our brothers and sisters,but instead care very dearly. You know often when I can't see my brethren I think of them and do pray for them. They are on my heart and I long to see them. Friends do you understand now what Peter means when he writes beloved. He goes on to write to encourage them to think it not strange the trial they endure. He encourages them as one he knows they are to come to pass. Jesus had shared with His disciples the trials that would come and Peter here is encouraging the early believers to press on and rejoice in it.
He continues in verse 13 by saying that ye are partakers of Christ's suffering. Remember friends Christ was beaten and as it written, " Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also ( John 15:20 ). " To partake in His suffering is to endure suffering and persecution for His name sake. Remember the world will not love you for you are not of the world. Remember as He prayed in the garden of Gethsemane those whom the Father has given Him are not of this world as He isn't and so the world does not love them as it did not love Him. Continuing on with verse,but listen to this joy that Peter shares that when His glory, Christ's glory be revealed we as believers will be joyful. Do you long for the day in which you begin spending eternity with Him? I know I do! As much as I have compassion for those who are lost I can't wait to see the nail scarred hands which saved me. I can't wait to see the captain of my salvation and begin singing forever holy,holy, holy is the lamb. Now some may say you can do that here, but friends this is not my home here. I am,but a pilgrim on my way home. Trying to explain that to someone who is unconverted and lost the joy of going home is to some degree hard cause they just don't grasp the excitement we have. I'm not being holier than thou art, but friends be honest they don't understand things which are spiritual unless converted. Read the parable of the sower and you will see what I mean.
Now looking at verse 14 notice it says ye are happy if they reproach you for the name of Christ for on your part is he glorified and on their part he is evil spoken of. Friends this means when they speak they speak evil is spoken of on their behalf, but on your part He is glorified. Like I've stated before with a verse that is very encouraging to me from the book of Philippians," For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. ( Philippians 1:21 ) " In my life I seek to please Christ daily in everything I do from the moment I wake till I go to bed. Now to some and maybe even most this may sound radical, but friends is this not what our lives should be about. Should we not focus our entire being around giving ourselves to please and glorify God. This means conforming your very thoughts, actions, and speech. I'm not perfect, but by no means giving up on pressing on towards the mark for prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus( Philippians 3:14 ). What I'm saying is I haven't obtained perfection, but not settling for what I am today. I am pursuing God daily and growing in holiness. This means dying daily and asking God what can I do for Him, instead of what can He do for me.
Let us look at verses 15 and 16 together. Friends, brothers and sisters we do not suffer as criminals in this life. What I mean by that is while it may appear so to those who persecute us or attack us. We are simply hated and despised because of who we serve. You know it is amazing how accepting this country is of so many things, but a true bible believing Christian this country wants nothing to do with. You may say that is a harsh statement,but it is true. Friends if I was to walk into a walmart or any local retail store and share the gospel versus what a large portion of churches share they would be angered at me. They would call me unloving, uncaring, and judgmental. Why ? I've said it before men love darkness. So friends, brethren when you suffer and I promise you will the scriptures indicate and confirm this give God the glory. Is that not what verse 16 says let him, the Christian not be ashamed, but let him glorify God. Sounds tough, but I ask you this where do you remember Jesus saying hey follow me and life get's really easy. I made mention of this last night and I feel the need to say it again if you think the Christian life is easy, wrong.
If anything since God changed me and called me I haven't gotten a Rolls Royce nor found a million dollars. What I have found is an abundant life, full everyday. Full of joy, pain, and the ever unfolding will of God in my life. I've come to see that even in absolute rough times how ever present He is and how even in those times I've continued to find my source of joy in Him. He is the very strength which gets me day by day. As it is written I live by faith, not leaning on my own understanding, but trusting in the Lord at all times with all my heart( Habakkuk 2:4, Proverbs 3:5 ).
Be encouraged my brethren that while suffering will come, to give God the glory. I know that may be the toughest thing to do during those times,but friends be a living testimony and instead let them be put to shame and evil be spoken of on their behalf. Another thing to be considered also think of the influence you may have just as Stephen did as he was being stoned( Acts 7:54-60 ). Consider these verses from the Apostle Paul to the church in Rome.
" I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Romans 12:1-2 "
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
I'm Not Ashamed Of The Gospel! ( Romans 1:16 )
For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
Romans 1:16
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This text while coming in about the middle of the first chapter of Romans does speaks volumes I do believe. To me this should be the attitude when we share the gospel. That when we share we are not ashamed. Friends to not be ashamed is to not have any shame, guilt or disgrace. Instead we can stand on it with all joy knowing the very truth of the gospel on which we share. The apostle Paul knew this first hand as it was Christ who saved him. Remember his conversion on the road to Damascus. On that road while it may have seemed to him at the time that he was doing the work of God( John 16:2 ). He instead was lost and needing the saving of Christ. Remember the very words of the apostle when he writes in his letter to the church at Philippi that he counted all things a loss compared to the knowledge of Christ( Philippians 3:8 ). Friends it is not enticing speech nor fancy delivery which saves a man,but it the power of God which does it.
Think of this brothers and sisters how many times do people offer you worthless items and say man you have got to have this or that. Saying without this you won't be in style or you will be lacking. I know we have all heard this especially if we have been in any retail outlet or picked up our phones and gotten a telemarketer. Now think brethren while they offer items that you may temporarily or in most cases don't need. Think what we as believers have to offer those who are lost? We have the gospel of Christ which has the power of God unto salvation. Friends do you hear that? This means what we have to share isn't just something, it is everything! You know I work in retail and have a hard time selling some products plainly cause I just don't see their value. Now when it comes to sharing my faith I see the eternal value and weight of where people spend eternity. I don't think well, this may offend them. Once again I will reiterate I think more of where they could spend eternity if I don't share. I can't save them,but I do have an obligation to share the hope that is in me, this is part of the great commission. Being a Christian isn't a private thing.
What I'd also like to point out in this verse is how the apostle points to that it includes not just the Jews, but the Greeks or gentiles as well. This is beautiful because for anyone who has read most of their bible or should I say the Old Testament the promises,the covenants, and such were only given to the Jewish, the Israelites. Talk about the joy in knowing that because of Christ I have been grafted into the vine. As we come to see the church would be made of Christians and there would be no division between Jew and Gentile. So first to the Jew then the Gentile.
Friends when you share your faith do not be afraid. I think often times what scares us is what they will think of us or what to say. Consider this when it comes on what to say. God will provide what to say( Jeremiah 1:6-9 ),but at the same time do not become lazy and forget to spend time in the scriptures. What I encourage is to constantly nourish( 1 Timothy 4:6 ) yourself in His Word and then I can guarantee He will give you the words in which to speak. As I spoke on the other night, trust in the Lord at all times with all thine heart and lean not on thine own understanding( Proverbs 3:5 ). This isn't poetic, it's the truth. When it comes to what they think of you consider this for being a Christian your not going to be well thought of. Trust me in fact for taking the stances you will take more than likely you will be considered unloving, not understanding and get this unchristian like. Do you know why they will say this ? Well, let me let the scriptures answer it, " If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.( John 15:18-19 ) " Did you catch something very key Jesus says in verse 19, ye are not of the world. Brothers and sisters those who are His, are not loved by this world because they are not of this world because they were chosen in Him before the foundation of the world( Ephesians 1:4 ). Be encouraged to share your faith and do it with boldness( 2 Timothy 1:7 ) and be not ashamed of the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ our Lord,King, and Savior.
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Romans 1:16
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This text while coming in about the middle of the first chapter of Romans does speaks volumes I do believe. To me this should be the attitude when we share the gospel. That when we share we are not ashamed. Friends to not be ashamed is to not have any shame, guilt or disgrace. Instead we can stand on it with all joy knowing the very truth of the gospel on which we share. The apostle Paul knew this first hand as it was Christ who saved him. Remember his conversion on the road to Damascus. On that road while it may have seemed to him at the time that he was doing the work of God( John 16:2 ). He instead was lost and needing the saving of Christ. Remember the very words of the apostle when he writes in his letter to the church at Philippi that he counted all things a loss compared to the knowledge of Christ( Philippians 3:8 ). Friends it is not enticing speech nor fancy delivery which saves a man,but it the power of God which does it.
Think of this brothers and sisters how many times do people offer you worthless items and say man you have got to have this or that. Saying without this you won't be in style or you will be lacking. I know we have all heard this especially if we have been in any retail outlet or picked up our phones and gotten a telemarketer. Now think brethren while they offer items that you may temporarily or in most cases don't need. Think what we as believers have to offer those who are lost? We have the gospel of Christ which has the power of God unto salvation. Friends do you hear that? This means what we have to share isn't just something, it is everything! You know I work in retail and have a hard time selling some products plainly cause I just don't see their value. Now when it comes to sharing my faith I see the eternal value and weight of where people spend eternity. I don't think well, this may offend them. Once again I will reiterate I think more of where they could spend eternity if I don't share. I can't save them,but I do have an obligation to share the hope that is in me, this is part of the great commission. Being a Christian isn't a private thing.
What I'd also like to point out in this verse is how the apostle points to that it includes not just the Jews, but the Greeks or gentiles as well. This is beautiful because for anyone who has read most of their bible or should I say the Old Testament the promises,the covenants, and such were only given to the Jewish, the Israelites. Talk about the joy in knowing that because of Christ I have been grafted into the vine. As we come to see the church would be made of Christians and there would be no division between Jew and Gentile. So first to the Jew then the Gentile.
Friends when you share your faith do not be afraid. I think often times what scares us is what they will think of us or what to say. Consider this when it comes on what to say. God will provide what to say( Jeremiah 1:6-9 ),but at the same time do not become lazy and forget to spend time in the scriptures. What I encourage is to constantly nourish( 1 Timothy 4:6 ) yourself in His Word and then I can guarantee He will give you the words in which to speak. As I spoke on the other night, trust in the Lord at all times with all thine heart and lean not on thine own understanding( Proverbs 3:5 ). This isn't poetic, it's the truth. When it comes to what they think of you consider this for being a Christian your not going to be well thought of. Trust me in fact for taking the stances you will take more than likely you will be considered unloving, not understanding and get this unchristian like. Do you know why they will say this ? Well, let me let the scriptures answer it, " If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.( John 15:18-19 ) " Did you catch something very key Jesus says in verse 19, ye are not of the world. Brothers and sisters those who are His, are not loved by this world because they are not of this world because they were chosen in Him before the foundation of the world( Ephesians 1:4 ). Be encouraged to share your faith and do it with boldness( 2 Timothy 1:7 ) and be not ashamed of the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ our Lord,King, and Savior.
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Trust God Always! ( Proverbs 3:5-6 )
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6
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What a beautiful text we have here. This one I must say has been on my heart recently. Often times when we encounter rough areas in our life our first question is why? It is this very text that gives me much comfort and I pray it does the same for you brethren. First as we know the book of proverbs were written by King Solomon. What is interesting is this, is despite how the latter part of his life went and how the kingdom would go as a result. It is very humbling as you read what Solomon asked for. Of all the things a king could ask for, Solomon asks for wisdom( 1 Kings 3:7-13 ). He asked for this so as to rule the people justly. He recognized he was young and needed wisdom to rule the people. This my friends is the attitude a ruler needs to have. He needs to have the humility to realize he needs God's guidance in leading him even though he has been placed in a position of authority.
Now moving into the passage for tonight. Verse five I do believe is a familiar text to all Christians. It goes as follows trust in the Lord at all times with all thine heart and lean not on your own understanding. You know I love this verse and often times the Lord brings this verse to memory when times are rough or beyond my understanding. I find it no coincidence that this verse ends lean not on your own understanding. First off to trust in the Lord at all times, means just what it says is to trust Him at all times. This means when you lose your job and things look bleak, trust Him. When it seems things are pressing in from all sides and you don't see a way out trust in Him. Friends it doesn't lay down conditions saying if things are great trust in Him at those times only. No, it says trust in the Lord at all times. Then the second half of the verse says lean not on your own understanding. This links perfect with trusting Him at all times. Don't rely on your own wisdom. The scriptures clearly indicate there is a way that seems right to man and it leads to death. In addition we as humans only see a small part of the picture when God sees the entire picture. Consider this and I do believe leaning on your own wisdom will sound quite foolish and make no sense at all.
Next in verse six it says acknowledge Him in all your ways and He shall direct your paths. Brothers and sisters when I think of this verse I think about the 23 Psalm of how it says that the Lord is our shepherd. Friends the longer I walk with Him I've come to see more and more how He has led me. It has been no coincidence the very paths in which He has led me on. Granted they haven't always been fun,but they have all had a purpose. When I say they all haven't been fun. I acknowledge the fact that there is trials, tribulations and suffering in this life even for those of us who are His. That through these trials I've grown closer to Him and through it I've acknowledged His very presence with me. As it is written " I(God) will never leave thee nor forsake thee"( Hebrews 13:5 ).
Brothers and sisters I encourage you to trust in Him always. I know there are going to be days are that are going to be rough. In fact I know there are going to be days that are going to feel like hell. Know this that He will be with you every step of the way. Remember this, His will may not be to get you out of a tough situation, in fact most times I've found His will is to get me through it. Through it, I've found it draws me closer to Him. Through it, my dependence on Him has grown and my love for Him continues to grow deeper everyday. Be encouraged my brethren.
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
Proverbs 3:5-6
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What a beautiful text we have here. This one I must say has been on my heart recently. Often times when we encounter rough areas in our life our first question is why? It is this very text that gives me much comfort and I pray it does the same for you brethren. First as we know the book of proverbs were written by King Solomon. What is interesting is this, is despite how the latter part of his life went and how the kingdom would go as a result. It is very humbling as you read what Solomon asked for. Of all the things a king could ask for, Solomon asks for wisdom( 1 Kings 3:7-13 ). He asked for this so as to rule the people justly. He recognized he was young and needed wisdom to rule the people. This my friends is the attitude a ruler needs to have. He needs to have the humility to realize he needs God's guidance in leading him even though he has been placed in a position of authority.
Now moving into the passage for tonight. Verse five I do believe is a familiar text to all Christians. It goes as follows trust in the Lord at all times with all thine heart and lean not on your own understanding. You know I love this verse and often times the Lord brings this verse to memory when times are rough or beyond my understanding. I find it no coincidence that this verse ends lean not on your own understanding. First off to trust in the Lord at all times, means just what it says is to trust Him at all times. This means when you lose your job and things look bleak, trust Him. When it seems things are pressing in from all sides and you don't see a way out trust in Him. Friends it doesn't lay down conditions saying if things are great trust in Him at those times only. No, it says trust in the Lord at all times. Then the second half of the verse says lean not on your own understanding. This links perfect with trusting Him at all times. Don't rely on your own wisdom. The scriptures clearly indicate there is a way that seems right to man and it leads to death. In addition we as humans only see a small part of the picture when God sees the entire picture. Consider this and I do believe leaning on your own wisdom will sound quite foolish and make no sense at all.
Next in verse six it says acknowledge Him in all your ways and He shall direct your paths. Brothers and sisters when I think of this verse I think about the 23 Psalm of how it says that the Lord is our shepherd. Friends the longer I walk with Him I've come to see more and more how He has led me. It has been no coincidence the very paths in which He has led me on. Granted they haven't always been fun,but they have all had a purpose. When I say they all haven't been fun. I acknowledge the fact that there is trials, tribulations and suffering in this life even for those of us who are His. That through these trials I've grown closer to Him and through it I've acknowledged His very presence with me. As it is written " I(God) will never leave thee nor forsake thee"( Hebrews 13:5 ).
Brothers and sisters I encourage you to trust in Him always. I know there are going to be days are that are going to be rough. In fact I know there are going to be days that are going to feel like hell. Know this that He will be with you every step of the way. Remember this, His will may not be to get you out of a tough situation, in fact most times I've found His will is to get me through it. Through it, I've found it draws me closer to Him. Through it, my dependence on Him has grown and my love for Him continues to grow deeper everyday. Be encouraged my brethren.
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Thursday, July 9, 2009
I Will Set No Wicked Thing Before My Eyes!( Psalm 101:1-4 )
I will sing of mercy and judgment: unto thee, O LORD, will I sing.
I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.
I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person.
Psalms 101:1-4
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Good evening and God bless. I do love how this psalm begins on how he referring to David saying he will sing of mercy and judgment. Mercy and judgment, wow how beautiful does that sound. David imparts and shares with us that it is God who gives mercy and who will judge in this verse. He doesn't complain about this, but is rejoicing. I mean think about it my brethren he is singing unto to God about mercy and judgment that doesn't sound like a man who is unhappy,but one who is comforted in the sovereign God he serves who shows mercy and judgment on whom He will.
In verse 2 David speaks to God on how he will walk wisely in a perfect way. Now before I continue let me remind you that perfect doesn't mean without error, but instead with a whole heart. Here David is making a promise to God to live godly. This we no isn't easy. Read Romans 7, in it you find there is a war even within the believer. The war is that we battle the flesh, but to win the battle is to walk in the spirit so as not to fulfill the lusts of the flesh. To do this we must be constantly renewed( Romans 12:2 ) by the Word and be absolutely nourished( 1 Timothy 4:6 ) in the Word.This doesn't mean pick up your bible on Sunday and on Wednesday or here and there. No, this means we must be in it constantly and as much as possible. Granted there is no passage that says you must read it this much or this many days, but friends I do ask how much do you love Him? Trust me I have found a great desire to read His Word as I continue to grow in Him.
Moving on to verse 3, David writes I will set no wicked thing before my eyes. Alright before I continue with the rest of this verse, this portion of this verse I'll be honest as been on my mind. The reason being is this that there are people who love God,but yet watch things that God abhors. This to me baffles, bewilders, and plain just makes my jaw drop. How is it you can sit on a Sunday sermon, Wednesday service or a youth event then put yourself through garbage God abhors ? Please someone answer me that ? Granted there are going to be wicked things we may see throughout our day without us meaning to, but when David writes I will set no wicked thing before my eyes. He is clearly stating I will not put that evil thing before me. Another words brothers and sisters as I stated its one thing to happen upon something you see as your walking along or driving ,but to willing put yourself through it is something else. Think on this verse in proverbs, " Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. ( Proverbs 4:23)" Keep this in mind there is no point in your life where you get old enough to handle it. I've heard someone say well, I'm an adult so its ok I can handle it. Friends, brothers and sisters you must look at things the way God does and that is in black and white. There is no grey area with God.
David continues on with saying that he hates the work of those who turn away. Another words those who said they were of us. Remember the Apostle John speaks of apostasy and this is what David is referring to. The fact is they were never in the faith to begin with. David declares to hate their works and that their very works will not take hold to him. Friends in this very age there is a continuing apostate and we need to have the same attitude. Do not let it cleave to you. As the Apostle Paul said fight the good fight of faith and hold fast on eternal life. Another words do not take part in it. Friends there are things that appear Christian,but that is as far as it goes. I believe the reason people are deceived is people are relying on emotions and lacking discernment. If they did as the Word says and test the spirit( 1 John 4:1 ) they would quickly see these false teachers for who they are. In addition when you rely on your emotions think where this comes from? Your heart and what did the prophet Jeremiah say about the heart, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? ( Jeremiah 17:9 ). "
In Closing with verse four David states a froward heart shall depart from me. As you know a froward heart is a perverse heart. Friends I can tell you this, no wicked person is honestly going to want to stick around you long unless God changes them. I can guarantee you this. One thing I noticed after I met Christ in 2007 I lost contact with people and it wasn't slowly either. It was quite fast indeed. The fact is people don't like truth and when you become consumed by God people are either drawn to you or away. Not because your special, but because of who dwells in you. I don't find it a coincidence of the people I've made friends since then. The second half of the verse David says he knows not a wicked person. Now at first glance you would say well, that can't make sense we all know some really bad folks. What he means by know is to have a personal relationship. Like I've stated before your quality time should be spent with believers. As I stated before this doesn't mean you don't evangelize, in fact I encourage you to evangelize. Just remember when it comes to quality time spend it with the brethren.
Brothers and sisters I encourage you throughout your walk. Remember we are called to a holy calling( 2 Timothy 1:9 ). This isn't suggested, it is in fact the way we should live( 1 Peter 1:16 ). It isn't easy, but Jesus never spoke about the easy life( Matthew 7:14 ). He did say that if anyone would wish to be His disciple they would deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him( Mark 8:34 ).
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart.
I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.
A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person.
Psalms 101:1-4
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Good evening and God bless. I do love how this psalm begins on how he referring to David saying he will sing of mercy and judgment. Mercy and judgment, wow how beautiful does that sound. David imparts and shares with us that it is God who gives mercy and who will judge in this verse. He doesn't complain about this, but is rejoicing. I mean think about it my brethren he is singing unto to God about mercy and judgment that doesn't sound like a man who is unhappy,but one who is comforted in the sovereign God he serves who shows mercy and judgment on whom He will.
In verse 2 David speaks to God on how he will walk wisely in a perfect way. Now before I continue let me remind you that perfect doesn't mean without error, but instead with a whole heart. Here David is making a promise to God to live godly. This we no isn't easy. Read Romans 7, in it you find there is a war even within the believer. The war is that we battle the flesh, but to win the battle is to walk in the spirit so as not to fulfill the lusts of the flesh. To do this we must be constantly renewed( Romans 12:2 ) by the Word and be absolutely nourished( 1 Timothy 4:6 ) in the Word.This doesn't mean pick up your bible on Sunday and on Wednesday or here and there. No, this means we must be in it constantly and as much as possible. Granted there is no passage that says you must read it this much or this many days, but friends I do ask how much do you love Him? Trust me I have found a great desire to read His Word as I continue to grow in Him.
Moving on to verse 3, David writes I will set no wicked thing before my eyes. Alright before I continue with the rest of this verse, this portion of this verse I'll be honest as been on my mind. The reason being is this that there are people who love God,but yet watch things that God abhors. This to me baffles, bewilders, and plain just makes my jaw drop. How is it you can sit on a Sunday sermon, Wednesday service or a youth event then put yourself through garbage God abhors ? Please someone answer me that ? Granted there are going to be wicked things we may see throughout our day without us meaning to, but when David writes I will set no wicked thing before my eyes. He is clearly stating I will not put that evil thing before me. Another words brothers and sisters as I stated its one thing to happen upon something you see as your walking along or driving ,but to willing put yourself through it is something else. Think on this verse in proverbs, " Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. ( Proverbs 4:23)" Keep this in mind there is no point in your life where you get old enough to handle it. I've heard someone say well, I'm an adult so its ok I can handle it. Friends, brothers and sisters you must look at things the way God does and that is in black and white. There is no grey area with God.
David continues on with saying that he hates the work of those who turn away. Another words those who said they were of us. Remember the Apostle John speaks of apostasy and this is what David is referring to. The fact is they were never in the faith to begin with. David declares to hate their works and that their very works will not take hold to him. Friends in this very age there is a continuing apostate and we need to have the same attitude. Do not let it cleave to you. As the Apostle Paul said fight the good fight of faith and hold fast on eternal life. Another words do not take part in it. Friends there are things that appear Christian,but that is as far as it goes. I believe the reason people are deceived is people are relying on emotions and lacking discernment. If they did as the Word says and test the spirit( 1 John 4:1 ) they would quickly see these false teachers for who they are. In addition when you rely on your emotions think where this comes from? Your heart and what did the prophet Jeremiah say about the heart, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? ( Jeremiah 17:9 ). "
In Closing with verse four David states a froward heart shall depart from me. As you know a froward heart is a perverse heart. Friends I can tell you this, no wicked person is honestly going to want to stick around you long unless God changes them. I can guarantee you this. One thing I noticed after I met Christ in 2007 I lost contact with people and it wasn't slowly either. It was quite fast indeed. The fact is people don't like truth and when you become consumed by God people are either drawn to you or away. Not because your special, but because of who dwells in you. I don't find it a coincidence of the people I've made friends since then. The second half of the verse David says he knows not a wicked person. Now at first glance you would say well, that can't make sense we all know some really bad folks. What he means by know is to have a personal relationship. Like I've stated before your quality time should be spent with believers. As I stated before this doesn't mean you don't evangelize, in fact I encourage you to evangelize. Just remember when it comes to quality time spend it with the brethren.
Brothers and sisters I encourage you throughout your walk. Remember we are called to a holy calling( 2 Timothy 1:9 ). This isn't suggested, it is in fact the way we should live( 1 Peter 1:16 ). It isn't easy, but Jesus never spoke about the easy life( Matthew 7:14 ). He did say that if anyone would wish to be His disciple they would deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him( Mark 8:34 ).
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Monday, July 6, 2009
When Things Go Wrong, Worship God ( Job 1:20-22 )
Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped,
And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.
In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.
Job 1:20-22
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I believe we all have heard of the patience of Job. Truly we can learn from it,but tonight I wish to examine a couple of verses that bless my heart and I pray they do you as well. As you know for anyone who has read this story. That at this point Job has lost everything, his sheep have been killed, camels taken away, and his children have been killed when the house fell on them. To make matters worse in the next chapter his wife tells him to curse God and die( Job 2:9 ). Real nice encouragement ? To top matters off as the story continues Job's three friends counsel him and well, not exactly the friends you need in a time like this.
So what is Job's response to losing everything? Does he lose his temper? Does he blame God ? No, Job worships God. Wow, he worships Him. Friends how many of us can say when all hell breaks loose we worship God. How many times can we say that when things don't go our way we praise God? Friends this is something I'm getting better at daily, not arrived at, but getting better. I'd say God really taught me a hard lesson last year when I couldn't drive for three months. Being 26 and not being able to drive is tough. There were people I wanted to see and things I wanted to do, but my options were limited. Thankfully the Lord provided me rides to church, youth services and times of fellowship with my brethren, not to mention I still kept my job. For some time even once I could drive I couldn't understand why I went through this trial. Even though I understood God was in control and had a purpose I didn't know why. It wasn't till a little while after I realized. I realized God used this time to humble me. Let me also tell you this while He humbled me then He continues to humble me. Friends you don't get to a point with God of perfect humility. Instead I would tell you I continue to grow in humility by God's grace. What I had realized is that there was an area in my life that I had a degree of pride that needed to be knocked down. Praise God that He broke me. Now I can say looking back that by God's grace I've grown and look forward to growing more and more in Him. Friends through this I learned to praise Him even in the worst times. I do honestly believe now thinking on this that, that the time was also used to make me understand the depth of praising Him in tough times. It was not long after this that my grandmother was in the hospital and once again my faith was tested. Yet again the Lord was faithful and upheld me.
Another example and this one maybe not near as deep as the other day as I was driving home from school and my allergies which lately have been acting up starting bothering me. Well, I could have complained,but here is some advice on complaining it doesn't do you nor anyone else good so why waste your time or your life. Well, instead I turned my praise and worship music on my radio louder and worshiped God. Granted I do this daily, but on this day God used the worship to first and foremost to receive glory for His name and also to help get my mind off my problem. See friends I know my allergies may be little compared to what Job went through, but what I'm illustrating is this no matter how big or how small your problem give God glory through your praise. Instead of focusing on the problem seek to give His name praise. Remember we were created to worship Him.
Following this Job says in verse 21 we came in with nothing and nothing shall we leave with. The Apostle Paul echoed these words to Timothy( 1 Timothy 6:7 ) and I do believe we need to take them to heart. There is nothing in this world that should come between our relationship with God. Nothing, not a friend, not a boyfriend/girlfriend, not a job, not a material item, and not even your family. I know this sounds rough, but friends when you put anything above your relationship to God you have just set forth another god before Him. Does not the scriptures say, " Thou shalt have no other gods before me. " ( Exodus 20:3 ) Another thing to consider is what Jesus said, " And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell."( Matthew 5:29-30) Granted this text is on adultery, but it is talking about sin. Friends if something or someone in your life is hindering you or causing you to sin then cut it off. Better to not have that thing or that relationship than to have that thing or person and be in hell.
In closing it says that Job sinned not nor charged God foolishly. Amazing despite everything he lost he never sinned nor blamed God. You know this encourages me and should encourage you too. Job recognized that he served a sovereign God. He realized that no matter what happened that God was still on the throne. It is this assurance that we can rest on that no matter how things go in life we can say as Job said blessed be the name of the Lord. This goes for good times and bad. Here is something I thought of and I of course give credit for this saying to my Creator, God, praise God in the storms of life and think how much louder your praise shall be in the sun.
Be encouraged my brethren as you go throughout your walk with Him. Don't be weary of doing good. If He gives or He takes away remember to still give Him praise for nothing we have is ours, but all that which is His. Instead thank God for everything. Have an attitude of gratitude. When I think of the very fact that He saved me based not on my merit,but on the merit and work of His Son( Ephesians 2:8-10), I am humbled and very grateful.
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD.
In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.
Job 1:20-22
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I believe we all have heard of the patience of Job. Truly we can learn from it,but tonight I wish to examine a couple of verses that bless my heart and I pray they do you as well. As you know for anyone who has read this story. That at this point Job has lost everything, his sheep have been killed, camels taken away, and his children have been killed when the house fell on them. To make matters worse in the next chapter his wife tells him to curse God and die( Job 2:9 ). Real nice encouragement ? To top matters off as the story continues Job's three friends counsel him and well, not exactly the friends you need in a time like this.
So what is Job's response to losing everything? Does he lose his temper? Does he blame God ? No, Job worships God. Wow, he worships Him. Friends how many of us can say when all hell breaks loose we worship God. How many times can we say that when things don't go our way we praise God? Friends this is something I'm getting better at daily, not arrived at, but getting better. I'd say God really taught me a hard lesson last year when I couldn't drive for three months. Being 26 and not being able to drive is tough. There were people I wanted to see and things I wanted to do, but my options were limited. Thankfully the Lord provided me rides to church, youth services and times of fellowship with my brethren, not to mention I still kept my job. For some time even once I could drive I couldn't understand why I went through this trial. Even though I understood God was in control and had a purpose I didn't know why. It wasn't till a little while after I realized. I realized God used this time to humble me. Let me also tell you this while He humbled me then He continues to humble me. Friends you don't get to a point with God of perfect humility. Instead I would tell you I continue to grow in humility by God's grace. What I had realized is that there was an area in my life that I had a degree of pride that needed to be knocked down. Praise God that He broke me. Now I can say looking back that by God's grace I've grown and look forward to growing more and more in Him. Friends through this I learned to praise Him even in the worst times. I do honestly believe now thinking on this that, that the time was also used to make me understand the depth of praising Him in tough times. It was not long after this that my grandmother was in the hospital and once again my faith was tested. Yet again the Lord was faithful and upheld me.
Another example and this one maybe not near as deep as the other day as I was driving home from school and my allergies which lately have been acting up starting bothering me. Well, I could have complained,but here is some advice on complaining it doesn't do you nor anyone else good so why waste your time or your life. Well, instead I turned my praise and worship music on my radio louder and worshiped God. Granted I do this daily, but on this day God used the worship to first and foremost to receive glory for His name and also to help get my mind off my problem. See friends I know my allergies may be little compared to what Job went through, but what I'm illustrating is this no matter how big or how small your problem give God glory through your praise. Instead of focusing on the problem seek to give His name praise. Remember we were created to worship Him.
Following this Job says in verse 21 we came in with nothing and nothing shall we leave with. The Apostle Paul echoed these words to Timothy( 1 Timothy 6:7 ) and I do believe we need to take them to heart. There is nothing in this world that should come between our relationship with God. Nothing, not a friend, not a boyfriend/girlfriend, not a job, not a material item, and not even your family. I know this sounds rough, but friends when you put anything above your relationship to God you have just set forth another god before Him. Does not the scriptures say, " Thou shalt have no other gods before me. " ( Exodus 20:3 ) Another thing to consider is what Jesus said, " And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell."( Matthew 5:29-30) Granted this text is on adultery, but it is talking about sin. Friends if something or someone in your life is hindering you or causing you to sin then cut it off. Better to not have that thing or that relationship than to have that thing or person and be in hell.
In closing it says that Job sinned not nor charged God foolishly. Amazing despite everything he lost he never sinned nor blamed God. You know this encourages me and should encourage you too. Job recognized that he served a sovereign God. He realized that no matter what happened that God was still on the throne. It is this assurance that we can rest on that no matter how things go in life we can say as Job said blessed be the name of the Lord. This goes for good times and bad. Here is something I thought of and I of course give credit for this saying to my Creator, God, praise God in the storms of life and think how much louder your praise shall be in the sun.
Be encouraged my brethren as you go throughout your walk with Him. Don't be weary of doing good. If He gives or He takes away remember to still give Him praise for nothing we have is ours, but all that which is His. Instead thank God for everything. Have an attitude of gratitude. When I think of the very fact that He saved me based not on my merit,but on the merit and work of His Son( Ephesians 2:8-10), I am humbled and very grateful.
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Love ( 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 )
Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
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This text should be very familiar in fact I know I've read it a couple times, well honestly a lot. Honestly here in scripture we see what love is. Amazing in four verses we can get so much on a four letter word, but as we know love is more than a word for God is love( 1 John 4:8, 1 John 4:16 ), the scriptures clearly indicate this. Of course people do pervert and/or misinterpret/misunderstand that and I'll get to that. I must say brothers and sisters, that this very text has continued to mold me as a man after His heart. It is truly amazing that no matter how many times I've read it how encouraging and beautiful it continues to ring in my soul and heart.
First off I'd love to share with you how it starts in verse four with that love suffers long. We've all heard the expression/ saying true love waits. You know I may or may not have shared this before on here, but when we think of that we think of saving ourselves till marriage and yes I see it that way, but I also see it another way too. What I'm saying is not only do you save yourself in purity,but you don't just jump in any relationship, but in stead wait on God's best for your life and nothing less. For me as I've shared before I'm going to be quite transparent. At 26, still single I've decided that I'm going to continue waiting on God's best. What I mean is I'm not going to compromise on picking a girl to spend the rest of my life with. If this means I have to wait another 5 to ten years it matters not for I have everything in Christ Jesus. Of course my waiting is far different than most or what the world would consider waiting, while I'm waiting I will continue to serve and worship God. Now should the Lord send someone this won't stop the serving and worshiping, it just means I will have someone serving and worshiping beside me, she might not be perfect,but she would be God's best and nothing less. My attitude to this area as in others didn't just change over night they changed through prayer and I do believe through an active prayer life God works on us. Remember prayer is not about us getting what we want,but about changing us and conforming our will to His will. As I've stated before He does answer prayer,but we need not go to prayer and think of it like what can you give me today God. Instead we need to be grateful making our requests known to Him, ask His will be done, and ask for His peace to have the understanding in every situation. Cause friends there are going to be times when you will pray for something and His will, will be nothing like you thought it would,but it will always be what you need. Keep what it says in Proverbs in mind, "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. "( Proverbs 3:5). Notice it says lean not on your own understanding.
Another quality of love, true love is that it is kind. True and honest love is kind. Notice what follows is it says that it envieth not. Another words you connect these two qualities of love. It doesn't envy what others have and by this shows its depth of true kindness. Doth not the scriptures say to not covet a neighbor's items( Exodus 20:17 ). You know I'll admit before Christ changed my heart, I was guilty myself of envy. I know cause I always thought if I could only have that or that then maybe I could be this or that. Like I've stated before the truth was before Christ I was trying to filling a void in my life that could not be filled with anything of this world.Praise God for coming in and changing this man and continuing change in this man through continued growth in Christ daily.
Continuing on love is not arrogant and doesn't go around puffing its chest up. True love doesn't have to put a huge sign around its neck that is glowing. No, instead it is so apparent that it is radiant enough and drawing to those who know it. Ever gotten that smile from a friend or your mom, that you know was genuine. You know what I mean, they didn't have to put up any effort, it was I am so glad to see you and it was literally the expression of their care and affection for you. This is what I mean, it doesn't need a neon sign, true love truly shines without needing extra help.
The next verse has really touch my heart as it says it doesn't seek its own. This is describing love, true love as sacrificing. Remember what Christ said, " Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." ( John 15:13 ). You know I've learned this myself that being a real man after His heart is being willing to sacrifice. This means instead of wanting what you want, instead seek both of your best by seeking His will. To be a man means willingness to lay down your desires, your dreams, and seeking His will for His glory. You know I'll be honest it has broken me to a degree to see that right now God's will is for me to be single, but in breaking me He has continued to refine me and strengthen me. Through it I've continued to be encouraged daily by His Word. Whenever my mind is attacked with thoughts of loneliness it is Him that strengthens me by upholding me with His right hand and His Word fills my mind to cloud out those doubting thoughts and lies. Continuing on in verse 5 it says it is not easily provoked and thinks no evil. Not easily provoked, wow this to me shows that true love stands through all things. Not to mention it thinks no evil. Truly this encapsulates the purity of true love.
Verse six, wow, how anyone can be in any immoral relationship and consider it love is absurd. For true love rejoices not in iniquity. Obviously if some or a majority of the world got a grasp of the word iniquity or what it meant they would realize rejoicing in a homosexual relationship, an incestuous relationship, or any such that God hates is not rejoicing in truth. Now as I stated earlier you might be thinking isn't God love and if so He can't hate can He? Well, let the scriptures answer( Psalm 5:5, Psalm 11:5,Leviticus 20:23,Proverbs 6:16-19, and Hosea 9:15 ). Friends too many times people wish to misinterpret/misunderstand and even sometimes pervert that God is love. He is love, but don't think for one second He hates the sin, but not the sinner. Do you think there is a distinction between the sin and the sinner? Think about this God is love, but remember what He is also Holy and righteous. With those attributes in minds think how can a holy, perfect, righteous, and just God can love a sinful,wicked person? The answer to that is unless a man be born again he can not enter into the kingdom of heaven( John 3:3 ) and until then remember this, the wrath of God abides on those whom don't believe( John 3:36 ).
In closing verse 7, states that love bears all things, believes all things,hopes all things, and endures all things. Does this not say something very strong that it bears,it puts up, but not in such a vain way. I just love the words it uses here cause this to me describes a true and lasting relationship with Christ. A true follower of Christ will bear all things he or she faces in their walk good or bad. They believe all things good or bad work for their good to give God glory that is due. They hope all things will work out for the best to give His name glory and praise. Last they will endure to the end because He who began a good work will finish it( Philippians 1:6 ). This also brothers and sisters has continued to show me what relationships can be built on. True love in any relationship will keep it strong and keep it together and remember Jesus truly defines true love. You want a relationship to succeed put God at the center. Remember seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.( Matthew 6:33 ). This passage clearly defines the priority of our lives God first, and not God first with something close second, but God way above the rest.
Be encouraged brothers and sisters to read these passages of scripture. Read and learn the very depths of true love. Come to the biblical understanding of this word which is one of God's attributes. Remember also that while He is love, He is also a consuming fire( Hebrews 12:29 ), He is holy( Leviticus 19:2 ), and He is just. So let us not exclude those other attributes when sharing the gospel with others. It's not a scare tactic when you share with them the very holiness of God. Your sharing with them very reality of who they will have to face on judgment. This in essence is showing true love. When you present the gospel share it in truth just as the apostles did seeking to please God.
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This text should be very familiar in fact I know I've read it a couple times, well honestly a lot. Honestly here in scripture we see what love is. Amazing in four verses we can get so much on a four letter word, but as we know love is more than a word for God is love( 1 John 4:8, 1 John 4:16 ), the scriptures clearly indicate this. Of course people do pervert and/or misinterpret/misunderstand that and I'll get to that. I must say brothers and sisters, that this very text has continued to mold me as a man after His heart. It is truly amazing that no matter how many times I've read it how encouraging and beautiful it continues to ring in my soul and heart.
First off I'd love to share with you how it starts in verse four with that love suffers long. We've all heard the expression/ saying true love waits. You know I may or may not have shared this before on here, but when we think of that we think of saving ourselves till marriage and yes I see it that way, but I also see it another way too. What I'm saying is not only do you save yourself in purity,but you don't just jump in any relationship, but in stead wait on God's best for your life and nothing less. For me as I've shared before I'm going to be quite transparent. At 26, still single I've decided that I'm going to continue waiting on God's best. What I mean is I'm not going to compromise on picking a girl to spend the rest of my life with. If this means I have to wait another 5 to ten years it matters not for I have everything in Christ Jesus. Of course my waiting is far different than most or what the world would consider waiting, while I'm waiting I will continue to serve and worship God. Now should the Lord send someone this won't stop the serving and worshiping, it just means I will have someone serving and worshiping beside me, she might not be perfect,but she would be God's best and nothing less. My attitude to this area as in others didn't just change over night they changed through prayer and I do believe through an active prayer life God works on us. Remember prayer is not about us getting what we want,but about changing us and conforming our will to His will. As I've stated before He does answer prayer,but we need not go to prayer and think of it like what can you give me today God. Instead we need to be grateful making our requests known to Him, ask His will be done, and ask for His peace to have the understanding in every situation. Cause friends there are going to be times when you will pray for something and His will, will be nothing like you thought it would,but it will always be what you need. Keep what it says in Proverbs in mind, "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. "( Proverbs 3:5). Notice it says lean not on your own understanding.
Another quality of love, true love is that it is kind. True and honest love is kind. Notice what follows is it says that it envieth not. Another words you connect these two qualities of love. It doesn't envy what others have and by this shows its depth of true kindness. Doth not the scriptures say to not covet a neighbor's items( Exodus 20:17 ). You know I'll admit before Christ changed my heart, I was guilty myself of envy. I know cause I always thought if I could only have that or that then maybe I could be this or that. Like I've stated before the truth was before Christ I was trying to filling a void in my life that could not be filled with anything of this world.Praise God for coming in and changing this man and continuing change in this man through continued growth in Christ daily.
Continuing on love is not arrogant and doesn't go around puffing its chest up. True love doesn't have to put a huge sign around its neck that is glowing. No, instead it is so apparent that it is radiant enough and drawing to those who know it. Ever gotten that smile from a friend or your mom, that you know was genuine. You know what I mean, they didn't have to put up any effort, it was I am so glad to see you and it was literally the expression of their care and affection for you. This is what I mean, it doesn't need a neon sign, true love truly shines without needing extra help.
The next verse has really touch my heart as it says it doesn't seek its own. This is describing love, true love as sacrificing. Remember what Christ said, " Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." ( John 15:13 ). You know I've learned this myself that being a real man after His heart is being willing to sacrifice. This means instead of wanting what you want, instead seek both of your best by seeking His will. To be a man means willingness to lay down your desires, your dreams, and seeking His will for His glory. You know I'll be honest it has broken me to a degree to see that right now God's will is for me to be single, but in breaking me He has continued to refine me and strengthen me. Through it I've continued to be encouraged daily by His Word. Whenever my mind is attacked with thoughts of loneliness it is Him that strengthens me by upholding me with His right hand and His Word fills my mind to cloud out those doubting thoughts and lies. Continuing on in verse 5 it says it is not easily provoked and thinks no evil. Not easily provoked, wow this to me shows that true love stands through all things. Not to mention it thinks no evil. Truly this encapsulates the purity of true love.
Verse six, wow, how anyone can be in any immoral relationship and consider it love is absurd. For true love rejoices not in iniquity. Obviously if some or a majority of the world got a grasp of the word iniquity or what it meant they would realize rejoicing in a homosexual relationship, an incestuous relationship, or any such that God hates is not rejoicing in truth. Now as I stated earlier you might be thinking isn't God love and if so He can't hate can He? Well, let the scriptures answer( Psalm 5:5, Psalm 11:5,Leviticus 20:23,Proverbs 6:16-19, and Hosea 9:15 ). Friends too many times people wish to misinterpret/misunderstand and even sometimes pervert that God is love. He is love, but don't think for one second He hates the sin, but not the sinner. Do you think there is a distinction between the sin and the sinner? Think about this God is love, but remember what He is also Holy and righteous. With those attributes in minds think how can a holy, perfect, righteous, and just God can love a sinful,wicked person? The answer to that is unless a man be born again he can not enter into the kingdom of heaven( John 3:3 ) and until then remember this, the wrath of God abides on those whom don't believe( John 3:36 ).
In closing verse 7, states that love bears all things, believes all things,hopes all things, and endures all things. Does this not say something very strong that it bears,it puts up, but not in such a vain way. I just love the words it uses here cause this to me describes a true and lasting relationship with Christ. A true follower of Christ will bear all things he or she faces in their walk good or bad. They believe all things good or bad work for their good to give God glory that is due. They hope all things will work out for the best to give His name glory and praise. Last they will endure to the end because He who began a good work will finish it( Philippians 1:6 ). This also brothers and sisters has continued to show me what relationships can be built on. True love in any relationship will keep it strong and keep it together and remember Jesus truly defines true love. You want a relationship to succeed put God at the center. Remember seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you.( Matthew 6:33 ). This passage clearly defines the priority of our lives God first, and not God first with something close second, but God way above the rest.
Be encouraged brothers and sisters to read these passages of scripture. Read and learn the very depths of true love. Come to the biblical understanding of this word which is one of God's attributes. Remember also that while He is love, He is also a consuming fire( Hebrews 12:29 ), He is holy( Leviticus 19:2 ), and He is just. So let us not exclude those other attributes when sharing the gospel with others. It's not a scare tactic when you share with them the very holiness of God. Your sharing with them very reality of who they will have to face on judgment. This in essence is showing true love. When you present the gospel share it in truth just as the apostles did seeking to please God.
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
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