For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.
For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better:
Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you.
Philippians 1:21-24
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I've read this book a couple of times and I do believe the 21 verse of this chapter is very familiar to most if not all Christians. For me I see it truly as the Christian conflict. As much as we desire to go home to be with the Lord we still know that for us to remain here is most fruitful or beneficial to those who need us here and the work to be done. Make no mistake of what I'm saying as in no way am I exalting the creation, but instead seek to show how the earnest believer feels. This acknowledging both their longing for home in heaven and their work here till the Lord calls them home . Now I'd like to divulge into the passages and touch on some points that have caught my eyes and I pray they encourage you.
First off in verse 21 the Apostle Paul writes for me to live is Christ, and to die is a gain. Can we say zeal for Christ. Think about it friends Paul is expressing that whether in his life or in his death Christ will be glorified. Friends do we take this attitude in our lives? Do we take heart at passages such as Deuteronomy 4:29,Deuteronomy 6:5, Matthew 6:33, and 1 Corinthians 2:2 and see that in each of these stands a centrality of a God-centered life. This should be our desire in life is Him. Am I perfect, have I achieved this? Sadly, no, but I recognize I have not reached perfection, but strive daily to conform myself daily to the image of Jesus Christ. In fact the words of the Apostle Paul are quite encouraging as he recognized this as well, but despite it he ran the race of patience and fought the good fight: " Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do,forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:13-14 ). So yes I may not be perfect,but that neither condones it nor says I give up, but only motivates me to press on to the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.
Another point which I'd like to touch on which I made mention on in my opening is the Christian conflict of being torn. This is of wanting to go home to be with Christ, but also realizing those who needs us here and the work the Lord has called us to. For some have been called to preach, others have the gift of teaching , and numerous other gifts. The point being that while we are here we have gifts in which the Lord has given us and while here we are most beneficial to them. I must say I have begun to understand this more as I've begun to grow more and more in the faith. My longing for home has grown and I truly believe that longing only deepens as every day passes. At the same time I also have seen that everyday the Lord gives me to be here that He has a purpose for me and I simply ask Him how can He use me today. That I'd say is one of many things that has changed in my Christian walk as I've matured. It's amazing how when your a young Christian you ask that God can let you do this and that, but you don't want to do this or that. Now as I stated my request is of the Lord use me for your glory as it seems good in your eyes. I want all that I do, seek to please Him and bring His name glory. I may not be perfect,but I take heart when it says about being a living sacrifice( Romans 12:2 ).
Brethren be encouraged that if these are your feelings don't feel ashamed. I truly believe we who have put our trust in Christ alone are longing for the day in which we go home to see Him face to face. Till that day serve the Lord in the area in which He has gifted you. Continue reaching out to the lost. Remember we need to follow the example of our Lord who was always busy about His Father's business. May I leave you with these encouraging words from our Lord and Saviour:
"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. 8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you."
( Matthew 5:3-12 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Monday, August 31, 2009
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Think Before You Speak ( Proverbs 15:1 )
A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.
Proverbs 15:1
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Good evening and God bless. I know it has been sometime since I last wrote,but school just started last week. Already it has been awesome what I've been encouraged by as I've seen a number of brethren since starting school. In addition on most mornings I get there earlier enough to read in the Word before my first class which is the perfect way to start school and honestly the best way to start any day. Before I get into the devotional tonight I do ask your prayers as I enter this semester. It is going to be a long semester with me getting up at 5am Monday through Thursday in addition to the numerous things that go along with being back in college(hw,exams, etc.). Now without further adieu.
Currently I'm actually reading from cover to cover and recently I read through this proverb. I must say when I read this it made me think about how some problems or areas we deal with could be handled better if we truly took this passage to heart. Think on what Solomon writes here, a soft answer turneth away wrath,but grievous words stir up anger. To bring this in modern english , this would be the same to say that a soft/gentle answer turns away a possible heated or provoking situation. Too often I've seen or even experienced(not part of) conversations that got out of control based on this. Simply put I believe we let our pride get in the way or our emotions. When in a conversation with someone and you two reach a point of disagreement there is two ways to handle it. One you can handle it like a child which too many people do and to be honest that is not biblical. The other way it can be handled is by acting mature and talking the issue on as adults. Everything we do must be done with love and true love is mature. This is one reason I would recommend all Christians take heart and read the very qualities of true love( 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 ).
The best way I can illustrate this is by using this analogy of some sort, don't use the "fist fighting" approach. Instead stand firm,but do so in love. Think about what the Apostle Paul said to the men at Corinth( 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 ).Notice there he admonished them, by declaring them to be men, but also instructed that in being men they do so in love. They would have known exactly what he meant as he explained so well earlier in the same letter on what true love is.
Take heart to this verse brethren. Think how many arguments and misunderstandings we could possibly avoid. Think also on this what are you communicating to the other person by exhibiting such a hard tone or by stirring up such animosity between the two of you. Remember we are to love one another, in fact we would be known by how we love one other( John 13:34-35 ). Remember our words should be edifying to those around us( Ephesians 4:29 ), not tearing one another apart.
Brethren be encouraged throughout your walk to encourage your brothers and sisters. You never know how much a word of encouragement means. Remember as Solomon pointed out here that a soft answer turns away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger. Let us encourage and edify one another, not tear each other down. Remember we are one body( Ephesians 4 ) and we work together, for Christ is not divided. I leave you now with these encouraging words from the Apostle Paul:
" Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. "
(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Proverbs 15:1
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Good evening and God bless. I know it has been sometime since I last wrote,but school just started last week. Already it has been awesome what I've been encouraged by as I've seen a number of brethren since starting school. In addition on most mornings I get there earlier enough to read in the Word before my first class which is the perfect way to start school and honestly the best way to start any day. Before I get into the devotional tonight I do ask your prayers as I enter this semester. It is going to be a long semester with me getting up at 5am Monday through Thursday in addition to the numerous things that go along with being back in college(hw,exams, etc.). Now without further adieu.
Currently I'm actually reading from cover to cover and recently I read through this proverb. I must say when I read this it made me think about how some problems or areas we deal with could be handled better if we truly took this passage to heart. Think on what Solomon writes here, a soft answer turneth away wrath,but grievous words stir up anger. To bring this in modern english , this would be the same to say that a soft/gentle answer turns away a possible heated or provoking situation. Too often I've seen or even experienced(not part of) conversations that got out of control based on this. Simply put I believe we let our pride get in the way or our emotions. When in a conversation with someone and you two reach a point of disagreement there is two ways to handle it. One you can handle it like a child which too many people do and to be honest that is not biblical. The other way it can be handled is by acting mature and talking the issue on as adults. Everything we do must be done with love and true love is mature. This is one reason I would recommend all Christians take heart and read the very qualities of true love( 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 ).
The best way I can illustrate this is by using this analogy of some sort, don't use the "fist fighting" approach. Instead stand firm,but do so in love. Think about what the Apostle Paul said to the men at Corinth( 1 Corinthians 16:13-14 ).Notice there he admonished them, by declaring them to be men, but also instructed that in being men they do so in love. They would have known exactly what he meant as he explained so well earlier in the same letter on what true love is.
Take heart to this verse brethren. Think how many arguments and misunderstandings we could possibly avoid. Think also on this what are you communicating to the other person by exhibiting such a hard tone or by stirring up such animosity between the two of you. Remember we are to love one another, in fact we would be known by how we love one other( John 13:34-35 ). Remember our words should be edifying to those around us( Ephesians 4:29 ), not tearing one another apart.
Brethren be encouraged throughout your walk to encourage your brothers and sisters. You never know how much a word of encouragement means. Remember as Solomon pointed out here that a soft answer turns away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger. Let us encourage and edify one another, not tear each other down. Remember we are one body( Ephesians 4 ) and we work together, for Christ is not divided. I leave you now with these encouraging words from the Apostle Paul:
" Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. "
(1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Be Both Real And Reverent With God ( Psalm 61:1-2 )
Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer.
From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
Psalms 61:1-2
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Tonight as I was thinking about writing this devotional I thought about different passages as does happen. This tends to happen naturally for one as I believe one of writing them, reading the Word, studying the Word and as I've stated to be consumed by Him is to have His Words on ones mind continually. It has touched my heart how when I talk to other brethren how they share the same thoughts how God and His Word is the central focus of their lives. This is in essence is being a living sacrifice( Romans 12:1 ). Remember that we are not our own as we who are believers have been bought with a price( 1 Corinthians 6:20 ).
In the opening verse of this psalm David states hear my cry, O God attend unto my prayer. While to us that is very archaic in language as none of us would use attend unto or maybe say it this way, David here is addressing God. He is petitioning God. As I've said before David was a man after God's heart and through that he was real and reverent to God. In this you see it by him both being honest that there is a request that is needed,but still remembering who he is addressing. When we go in prayer we should do the same. This means friends we remember it is God almighty who we are talking to and while yes we can be honest cause He knows all. It by no means gives us the room to be irreverent and act like all the sudden we can lose our minds cause we have been called into fellowship with Him. As you read in the psalms that David wrote he often wrote about times where things weren't going right, how things weren't going his way, but even through it all he was reverent and still he remembered who was on the throne. I can't stress it enough how when we go in prayer that being real and reverent is how we should act. If this makes it easier think about this He knows everything and remember He is God.
Moving on to verse two, we see that David's heart is overwhelmed. I know there have been times in my walk where I've had this happen. It's not that I'm not a Christian, its just that I'm human. See like I pointed to above its being real before God. It's acknowledging God I can't handle this I need you. Now granted we must totally depend on Him always. What I mean is there is times literally where we are attacked on all sides. This can of course can be looked at twofold as one, you may have brought this on yourself. As you read in the Word even those faithful made errors and it did catch up with them. Friends none of us are perfect,but this in no way leave us with excuse. This is why we need to be nourished( 1 Timothy 4:6 ) daily to renew our minds( Romans 12:2 ) and prepare ourselves for the daily temptations and battles that await. If you think your fights are one time or here and there your mistaken we have an active adversary( 1 Peter 5:8 ). Two, this could come about as a trial to strengthen you. Remember all things work for our good( Romans 8:28 ). Granted we can't see it for the most part at the current time,but it does. The thing is and often times I remember Proverbs 3:5. With that it sets my mind at ease. Truly resting in the Lord and His Word is where I can find comfort at all times. For in it I find the true peace in which I need.
One other note I'd like to add is David says at the end of this verse is lead me to the rock that is higher than I. This rock we know is Christ. Have you ever needed a time of refuge from the storm. This is what Christ is to us in one manner of speaking. In this we can find both a place to hide from the storm and find rest. This makes me think of verses in both the 23 psalm and the 3rd psalm they go as follows, " I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me. ( Psalm 3:5 ) & He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. ( Psalm 23:2-3 ) . " How grateful am I for the Rock that is higher than I. How grateful that it is He who sustains me and will finish the work in which He began( Philippians 1:6 ).
Be encouraged brethren that we serve a faithful God. What a joy it is to rest in Him! To know that He is the one who sustains us. Brethren when you seek Him be both real and reverent for it is the Lord God almighty for whom ye speak with. I leave you with these encouraging words from the Apostle Paul to Christians in Rome:
"Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
( Romans 8:37-39 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
Psalms 61:1-2
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tonight as I was thinking about writing this devotional I thought about different passages as does happen. This tends to happen naturally for one as I believe one of writing them, reading the Word, studying the Word and as I've stated to be consumed by Him is to have His Words on ones mind continually. It has touched my heart how when I talk to other brethren how they share the same thoughts how God and His Word is the central focus of their lives. This is in essence is being a living sacrifice( Romans 12:1 ). Remember that we are not our own as we who are believers have been bought with a price( 1 Corinthians 6:20 ).
In the opening verse of this psalm David states hear my cry, O God attend unto my prayer. While to us that is very archaic in language as none of us would use attend unto or maybe say it this way, David here is addressing God. He is petitioning God. As I've said before David was a man after God's heart and through that he was real and reverent to God. In this you see it by him both being honest that there is a request that is needed,but still remembering who he is addressing. When we go in prayer we should do the same. This means friends we remember it is God almighty who we are talking to and while yes we can be honest cause He knows all. It by no means gives us the room to be irreverent and act like all the sudden we can lose our minds cause we have been called into fellowship with Him. As you read in the psalms that David wrote he often wrote about times where things weren't going right, how things weren't going his way, but even through it all he was reverent and still he remembered who was on the throne. I can't stress it enough how when we go in prayer that being real and reverent is how we should act. If this makes it easier think about this He knows everything and remember He is God.
Moving on to verse two, we see that David's heart is overwhelmed. I know there have been times in my walk where I've had this happen. It's not that I'm not a Christian, its just that I'm human. See like I pointed to above its being real before God. It's acknowledging God I can't handle this I need you. Now granted we must totally depend on Him always. What I mean is there is times literally where we are attacked on all sides. This can of course can be looked at twofold as one, you may have brought this on yourself. As you read in the Word even those faithful made errors and it did catch up with them. Friends none of us are perfect,but this in no way leave us with excuse. This is why we need to be nourished( 1 Timothy 4:6 ) daily to renew our minds( Romans 12:2 ) and prepare ourselves for the daily temptations and battles that await. If you think your fights are one time or here and there your mistaken we have an active adversary( 1 Peter 5:8 ). Two, this could come about as a trial to strengthen you. Remember all things work for our good( Romans 8:28 ). Granted we can't see it for the most part at the current time,but it does. The thing is and often times I remember Proverbs 3:5. With that it sets my mind at ease. Truly resting in the Lord and His Word is where I can find comfort at all times. For in it I find the true peace in which I need.
One other note I'd like to add is David says at the end of this verse is lead me to the rock that is higher than I. This rock we know is Christ. Have you ever needed a time of refuge from the storm. This is what Christ is to us in one manner of speaking. In this we can find both a place to hide from the storm and find rest. This makes me think of verses in both the 23 psalm and the 3rd psalm they go as follows, " I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me. ( Psalm 3:5 ) & He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. ( Psalm 23:2-3 ) . " How grateful am I for the Rock that is higher than I. How grateful that it is He who sustains me and will finish the work in which He began( Philippians 1:6 ).
Be encouraged brethren that we serve a faithful God. What a joy it is to rest in Him! To know that He is the one who sustains us. Brethren when you seek Him be both real and reverent for it is the Lord God almighty for whom ye speak with. I leave you with these encouraging words from the Apostle Paul to Christians in Rome:
"Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
( Romans 8:37-39 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
A Gracious & Merciful Lord Whom We Serve ( Psalm 103:8-11 )
The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.
He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever.
He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.
For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.
Psalms 103:8-11
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This psalm is one I do believe a favorite of some and known in part to others by a song by Casting Crown, "East To West" which comes from verse 12. Tonight I wish to cover some verses which touched my heart as I read them this week. I pray and hope they do the same for you as well my brethren. I can't recall if it was today or yesterday as I was doing my daily bible reading, but I read this psalm which I've read before,but I love how no matter how much you read scripture it continues to get sweeter. So was the case with this passage.
First in verse 8 we get characteristics of God. These were revealed in scripture as we know to Moses( Exodus 34:6-7 ). First off we see He is merciful. I know something I've stated before is I know mercy for He has shown it to me. To show mercy is show compassion to someone. That someone is usually an offender and with that in mind it isn't something they deserve. Think about it friends when you think about it do we really deserve mercy? You know I saw a sign and they did have something up that was true, we want mercy, but we deserve justice. That is the truth think about it none of us have lived perfect lives in fact the scriptures indicate all have fallen short of the glory of God( Romans 3:23 ).In fact scripture indicates that He will have mercy on whom He will have mercy( Romans 9:15 ). By His very standards we deserve eternal damnation,but the great news and joy to those of us who have placed our trust and hope alone in Christ know that we have eternal life. Why ? Cause Jesus Christ lived a sinless life and paid for His people( Matthew 1:5, Ephesians 5:25 ) on the cross. See He took the wrath of God on the cross, the very thing in which we deserve He took for His people. So when I say I know mercy for I've been shown, yes I am grateful for mercy. Next it also says He is gracious as well. So we see that He shows us this mercy that we don't deserve and it is by His grace. This grace by the way is not earned. Is it not evidenced by what I stated before our lives didn't earn us anything deserving of eternal life. In fact what the bible does teach is this," For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. ( Ephesians 2:8-10 )" We have no credit to take,but instead give all glory to God for Him showing this grace to us that is neither merited nor earned( Ephesians 2:9 ). The psalmist concludes the verse with He is plenteous in mercy. What an encouragement, this is to say that His mercy doesn't run out today or the next day, or that it ran out back then. This says that He has plenty of mercy. Praise God that His mercies are renewed daily( Lamentations 3:22-23 ).
Moving into verse 9, the psalmist states he will not always chide neither keep his anger forever. Granted my friends when we err and do sin the Lord will correct us. The scriptures do indicate this, but friends He will not be angry with us forever. This chastening is used for correcting. His purpose in correcting His own is for His glory, not one of let me see how I can make them miserable today. I'd venture to say people have an idea of God as a child sitting on an ant hill with a microscope waiting to scorch them. Granted His wrath does abide on those who don't believe( John 3:36 ), but what we must see is the psalmist is referring to the believer not the unbeliever. Remember this as well what the Apostle John wrote in his epistle, " If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. ( 1 John 1:9 ) " Like I stated His chiding is used to rebuke when we are wrong. Remember those whom He corrects He loves ( Proverbs 3:12 ).
As I covered to an extent and I'll say as this verse addresses here in verse 10 that the Lord has not dealt with us both in the context for the psalmist and us as believers today. The Lord gives us mercy those of us who are His. I know if not for His mercy I would get what I deserve. For that I am thankful. When one becomes aware that He doesn't get what he deserves, but instead thanks God for it there is a beauty in it. What I mean is this, that no longer do you look at yourself and say hey I'm something else. Instead you say man look at what God has done for me. Everything in your life rotates around Him. You recognize there are things in your life you don't deserve,but thank Him for the very blessings in which He bestows so graciously. Do you see what I mean? The attitude becomes one of God-centered and not man-centered. I think often on Matthew 6:33. When it says seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto thee. What comes to mind first and foremost is a God-centered attitude. One where my desire and passion is all about Him. That He is my everything and that He is whom I seek first in my life. When that happens naturally everything comes. Does this mean life goes perfect? No, but it does mean that the Lord will provide. Remember the Lord gives us what we need, not everything that we want.
Moving on to verse 11, it describes how great His mercy is. Talk about the very depths of His mercy. It describes it as far above the height of the heavens of the earth. This just showing it knows no bounds and is tremendous. Like I stated earlier God doesn't run out of mercy and has plenty of it as I went to describe above in the second paragraph. Notice what it then says at the end of this verse. It talks of how great is His mercy towards those who fear Him. The best way I can describe this is to let the scriptures do it," Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread
( Isaiah 8:13 )" Hear again let me let the scriptures paint another picture of godly fear, " Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; (Isaiah 66:5 ) " There is nothing wrong with godly fear for it brings reverence to His name and His Word. I must say I've never heard too many a pastor these days warn their congregation to fear God or tremble at His Word. I'm not saying having them be scared of Him like a monster,but we do need to recognize who He is.
Brethren be encouraged by this. Know this, that those who know the Lord do fear Him, but this fear is not as we think in our language or context it is a godly fear. As I stated and gave examples in scriptures. Be encouraged to get to know Him through His Word. Seek His face and grow in Him I pray. May I leave with these words of encouragement from the Apostle Paul:
"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 <><
He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever.
He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.
For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.
Psalms 103:8-11
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This psalm is one I do believe a favorite of some and known in part to others by a song by Casting Crown, "East To West" which comes from verse 12. Tonight I wish to cover some verses which touched my heart as I read them this week. I pray and hope they do the same for you as well my brethren. I can't recall if it was today or yesterday as I was doing my daily bible reading, but I read this psalm which I've read before,but I love how no matter how much you read scripture it continues to get sweeter. So was the case with this passage.
First in verse 8 we get characteristics of God. These were revealed in scripture as we know to Moses( Exodus 34:6-7 ). First off we see He is merciful. I know something I've stated before is I know mercy for He has shown it to me. To show mercy is show compassion to someone. That someone is usually an offender and with that in mind it isn't something they deserve. Think about it friends when you think about it do we really deserve mercy? You know I saw a sign and they did have something up that was true, we want mercy, but we deserve justice. That is the truth think about it none of us have lived perfect lives in fact the scriptures indicate all have fallen short of the glory of God( Romans 3:23 ).In fact scripture indicates that He will have mercy on whom He will have mercy( Romans 9:15 ). By His very standards we deserve eternal damnation,but the great news and joy to those of us who have placed our trust and hope alone in Christ know that we have eternal life. Why ? Cause Jesus Christ lived a sinless life and paid for His people( Matthew 1:5, Ephesians 5:25 ) on the cross. See He took the wrath of God on the cross, the very thing in which we deserve He took for His people. So when I say I know mercy for I've been shown, yes I am grateful for mercy. Next it also says He is gracious as well. So we see that He shows us this mercy that we don't deserve and it is by His grace. This grace by the way is not earned. Is it not evidenced by what I stated before our lives didn't earn us anything deserving of eternal life. In fact what the bible does teach is this," For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. ( Ephesians 2:8-10 )" We have no credit to take,but instead give all glory to God for Him showing this grace to us that is neither merited nor earned( Ephesians 2:9 ). The psalmist concludes the verse with He is plenteous in mercy. What an encouragement, this is to say that His mercy doesn't run out today or the next day, or that it ran out back then. This says that He has plenty of mercy. Praise God that His mercies are renewed daily( Lamentations 3:22-23 ).
Moving into verse 9, the psalmist states he will not always chide neither keep his anger forever. Granted my friends when we err and do sin the Lord will correct us. The scriptures do indicate this, but friends He will not be angry with us forever. This chastening is used for correcting. His purpose in correcting His own is for His glory, not one of let me see how I can make them miserable today. I'd venture to say people have an idea of God as a child sitting on an ant hill with a microscope waiting to scorch them. Granted His wrath does abide on those who don't believe( John 3:36 ), but what we must see is the psalmist is referring to the believer not the unbeliever. Remember this as well what the Apostle John wrote in his epistle, " If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. ( 1 John 1:9 ) " Like I stated His chiding is used to rebuke when we are wrong. Remember those whom He corrects He loves ( Proverbs 3:12 ).
As I covered to an extent and I'll say as this verse addresses here in verse 10 that the Lord has not dealt with us both in the context for the psalmist and us as believers today. The Lord gives us mercy those of us who are His. I know if not for His mercy I would get what I deserve. For that I am thankful. When one becomes aware that He doesn't get what he deserves, but instead thanks God for it there is a beauty in it. What I mean is this, that no longer do you look at yourself and say hey I'm something else. Instead you say man look at what God has done for me. Everything in your life rotates around Him. You recognize there are things in your life you don't deserve,but thank Him for the very blessings in which He bestows so graciously. Do you see what I mean? The attitude becomes one of God-centered and not man-centered. I think often on Matthew 6:33. When it says seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto thee. What comes to mind first and foremost is a God-centered attitude. One where my desire and passion is all about Him. That He is my everything and that He is whom I seek first in my life. When that happens naturally everything comes. Does this mean life goes perfect? No, but it does mean that the Lord will provide. Remember the Lord gives us what we need, not everything that we want.
Moving on to verse 11, it describes how great His mercy is. Talk about the very depths of His mercy. It describes it as far above the height of the heavens of the earth. This just showing it knows no bounds and is tremendous. Like I stated earlier God doesn't run out of mercy and has plenty of it as I went to describe above in the second paragraph. Notice what it then says at the end of this verse. It talks of how great is His mercy towards those who fear Him. The best way I can describe this is to let the scriptures do it," Sanctify the LORD of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread
( Isaiah 8:13 )" Hear again let me let the scriptures paint another picture of godly fear, " Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; (Isaiah 66:5 ) " There is nothing wrong with godly fear for it brings reverence to His name and His Word. I must say I've never heard too many a pastor these days warn their congregation to fear God or tremble at His Word. I'm not saying having them be scared of Him like a monster,but we do need to recognize who He is.
Brethren be encouraged by this. Know this, that those who know the Lord do fear Him, but this fear is not as we think in our language or context it is a godly fear. As I stated and gave examples in scriptures. Be encouraged to get to know Him through His Word. Seek His face and grow in Him I pray. May I leave with these words of encouragement from the Apostle Paul:
"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 <><
Thursday, August 6, 2009
Restore Them In A Spirit Of Meekness ( Galatians 6:1 )
Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
Galatians 6:1
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Speaking to the brethren the Apostle Paul states that if another brethren were overtaken by fault or another words does sin by error. What I mean by this is he or she did not do this as they just sought after it,but as we know we are by no means perfect. Those of us who are spiritual their brethren should restore them with a spirit of meekness. Consider right here what the Apostle Paul is talking about the helping of one another. He in no way is condoning or saying hey let it slide. He instead is seeking that it be handled rightly. Read Romans 15. Remember those of us who are stronger in the faith should help bear the weak. When I say weak I don't in any means, mean they are inferior, less important, it is they are just not as strong in the faith as we. Of course to some measure we are all weak in some areas and hence we work as a body who ultimately relies on Christ( 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 ). I can't being to even tell you the joy I find in knowing I have brethren I can lean on who are stronger in areas where I'm weak and finding I can help others. What this shows is unity in that we work as a body does. The foot doesn't hate the eye nor the leg the ear.
Now see also it says to restore them in a spirit of meekness. I feel the need to always remind us that meek is not weak. Sadly when you would ask people their definition of the word meek I'd take it that is what they would give you is being weak or cowardly. Take that definition and think about Matthew 11:29, I think quickly you see the absurdity of it. Instead when you instead see its proper definition as follows; mildness and gentleness. Now placing that in light of scripture it makes sense and goes with the very character of Christ. This is as I shared with the kids at youth group last night why studying is so vital when it comes to the scriptures. There is nothing wrong with reading your bible,but take time to get to know God through deep study. After all that is why God inspired( 2 Timothy 3:16 ), "Study to shew thyself approved unto God a workman that need not be ashamed rightly diving the Word of truth( 2 Timothy 2:15 )."
Friends when restoring them in this spirit of meekness notice the Apostle Paul does give a warning to consider ourselves lest we be tempted. This simply means that we take the matter in prayer and handle the situation biblical. Too many times problems escalate even in churches because people overstep boundaries and here is the solution right here. Along with that church discipline is covered thoroughly in Matthew 18. We do need to look out for one another,but at the same time need to take care of ourselves as well. I know that may sound selfish at first glance,but consider this. What help are you to that person if by not protecting yourself through prayerfully considering the course of action and handling things biblical what help are you to them? I also believe this temptation is not only to protect us from sinning,but not too become full of who we are. Granted that will lead to a sin of pride, but I believe you see what I mean. We need to realize even if we are a stronger brother or sister that we need to prayerfully and biblically approach each situation when our brethren err and its obvious we can help. Don't stand back and don't be afraid to help,but also don't be ignorant of what is laid out in scripture.
Brethren I pray tonight this has been encouragement for you. If a brother or sister errs in fault do help them in a spirit of meekness. Do so biblical and with much prayer. Consider the warning the Apostle Paul gave and if you feel impressed upon your heart that any way your motive is not pure and could led to temptation to the sin of pride and or any other step back and repent before God( 1 John 1:9 ). Remember we need to remove anything in our lives before seeking to help another( Matthew 7:3-5 ). I leave you with these encouraging words from our Lord and Saviour.
"Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. "
( Matthew 5:7-9 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Galatians 6:1
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Speaking to the brethren the Apostle Paul states that if another brethren were overtaken by fault or another words does sin by error. What I mean by this is he or she did not do this as they just sought after it,but as we know we are by no means perfect. Those of us who are spiritual their brethren should restore them with a spirit of meekness. Consider right here what the Apostle Paul is talking about the helping of one another. He in no way is condoning or saying hey let it slide. He instead is seeking that it be handled rightly. Read Romans 15. Remember those of us who are stronger in the faith should help bear the weak. When I say weak I don't in any means, mean they are inferior, less important, it is they are just not as strong in the faith as we. Of course to some measure we are all weak in some areas and hence we work as a body who ultimately relies on Christ( 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 ). I can't being to even tell you the joy I find in knowing I have brethren I can lean on who are stronger in areas where I'm weak and finding I can help others. What this shows is unity in that we work as a body does. The foot doesn't hate the eye nor the leg the ear.
Now see also it says to restore them in a spirit of meekness. I feel the need to always remind us that meek is not weak. Sadly when you would ask people their definition of the word meek I'd take it that is what they would give you is being weak or cowardly. Take that definition and think about Matthew 11:29, I think quickly you see the absurdity of it. Instead when you instead see its proper definition as follows; mildness and gentleness. Now placing that in light of scripture it makes sense and goes with the very character of Christ. This is as I shared with the kids at youth group last night why studying is so vital when it comes to the scriptures. There is nothing wrong with reading your bible,but take time to get to know God through deep study. After all that is why God inspired( 2 Timothy 3:16 ), "Study to shew thyself approved unto God a workman that need not be ashamed rightly diving the Word of truth( 2 Timothy 2:15 )."
Friends when restoring them in this spirit of meekness notice the Apostle Paul does give a warning to consider ourselves lest we be tempted. This simply means that we take the matter in prayer and handle the situation biblical. Too many times problems escalate even in churches because people overstep boundaries and here is the solution right here. Along with that church discipline is covered thoroughly in Matthew 18. We do need to look out for one another,but at the same time need to take care of ourselves as well. I know that may sound selfish at first glance,but consider this. What help are you to that person if by not protecting yourself through prayerfully considering the course of action and handling things biblical what help are you to them? I also believe this temptation is not only to protect us from sinning,but not too become full of who we are. Granted that will lead to a sin of pride, but I believe you see what I mean. We need to realize even if we are a stronger brother or sister that we need to prayerfully and biblically approach each situation when our brethren err and its obvious we can help. Don't stand back and don't be afraid to help,but also don't be ignorant of what is laid out in scripture.
Brethren I pray tonight this has been encouragement for you. If a brother or sister errs in fault do help them in a spirit of meekness. Do so biblical and with much prayer. Consider the warning the Apostle Paul gave and if you feel impressed upon your heart that any way your motive is not pure and could led to temptation to the sin of pride and or any other step back and repent before God( 1 John 1:9 ). Remember we need to remove anything in our lives before seeking to help another( Matthew 7:3-5 ). I leave you with these encouraging words from our Lord and Saviour.
"Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. "
( Matthew 5:7-9 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Keep On Praying! ( 1 Thessalonians 5:17 )
Pray without ceasing.
1 Thessalonians 5:17
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I take it as most of us have read this passage or heard it read. Do you understand what it truly means to pray without ceasing. Well, to a majority of people their idea of praying is bending your knees, clasping your hands together, closing your eyes and being silent. Granted that is a form of prayer and is what we refer to as silent meditation and there is nothing wrong with it. Sometimes our prayer is in this form is where we speak to the Father without our lips moving nor others hearing what we are saying. Of course we all know this is not possible to be done continuously in this fashion since most of us either work or well, we have families to attend or life in general. So what does it mean by pray without ceasing.
Like I've mentioned before and I do believe most Christians have this concept,but for those who don't I pray this is encouraging and brings you great joy. Prayer is communication between you and the Father. Awesome to know we have direct access to the Father through the Son. Awesome to know we have a mediator who is there on our behalf bringing our prayers before the Father.
Now let me divulge into what prayer is and isn't. Prayer isn't a laundry list of what you want God to do for you. Prayer isn't about how God can please you today. Granted God blesses His children,but the focus isn't about us. So many times people get the wrong idea about prayer that it is about them and what they need God to fix. Let me share with you encouragement on what it is. What prayer is, is communication between us( Christians ) and God. While as I stated He does bless His children. It is more about conforming us and our will to His will. As this happens when we go to Him in prayer we begin to ask of Him in accordance of His will.
Let me give you example of my own life and being as I have stated, transparent. As I've mentioned before I'm 26 and as much as I'd love to be married and have kids I've left my "love life/story" in the Father's hand. In times past with different christian girls I met I prayed about it and asked for His will to be done. Now granted those words are the most hardest to even though they are only five words try saying them and meaning them and then seeing them lived out. Time and time again God's will has been to this point for me to be single. Am I unhappy? No, for me my joy is in Him and my growing knowledge daily of Him. Has this taken the desire of marriage away? No, in fact He has just shown me daily the greater depth of how to be a better father and husband if it be His will for my life. Brothers and sisters to trust your life and situations in prayer and to say your will be done is what we need to do. It is recognizing He knows our best and putting a complete dependence on Him. Tell me this when has the Lord led you astray? Never! Now how many times have you tried doing things your way and where has it gotten you? Probably discouraged, thinking why did I do this or even asking His forgiveness for making the wrong choice. The point I'm trying to illustrate is prayer is going to Him communicating our needs before Him and trusting Him to know our best. As it is written," trust in the Lord at all times with all thine heart and lean not on thine own understanding"( Proverbs 3:5 ).
Like I stated before most get the idea of prayer as some bowing with eyes shut, but remember prayer is communication between the believer and the Father. It can be silent or out loud. Granted don't act as the pharisees to get the attention of others unless that is the reward in which you seek. It can be with eyes open or eyes closed. I used to think my eyes had to be closed for reverence,but reverence is your attitude in which not only a knee is bowed,but a heart is as well. You acknowledge who you are speaking to. David really understood this well, he spook to God being both real and reverent. Be honest with God, but reverent. Let God know your pains, joys, trials and everything. After all it is not like He doesn't know.
Be encouraged brethren to be in constant communication with Him . I can't begin to tell how much I enjoy time with the Father in prayer. Now while I encourage you in this I by no means would say this to have this replace time in the Word. Instead add more time in prayer along with the Word. I leave you with these encouraging words from David in Psalm 62,
" He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved.
In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.
Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah. "
( Psalm 62:6-8 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
1 Thessalonians 5:17
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I take it as most of us have read this passage or heard it read. Do you understand what it truly means to pray without ceasing. Well, to a majority of people their idea of praying is bending your knees, clasping your hands together, closing your eyes and being silent. Granted that is a form of prayer and is what we refer to as silent meditation and there is nothing wrong with it. Sometimes our prayer is in this form is where we speak to the Father without our lips moving nor others hearing what we are saying. Of course we all know this is not possible to be done continuously in this fashion since most of us either work or well, we have families to attend or life in general. So what does it mean by pray without ceasing.
Like I've mentioned before and I do believe most Christians have this concept,but for those who don't I pray this is encouraging and brings you great joy. Prayer is communication between you and the Father. Awesome to know we have direct access to the Father through the Son. Awesome to know we have a mediator who is there on our behalf bringing our prayers before the Father.
Now let me divulge into what prayer is and isn't. Prayer isn't a laundry list of what you want God to do for you. Prayer isn't about how God can please you today. Granted God blesses His children,but the focus isn't about us. So many times people get the wrong idea about prayer that it is about them and what they need God to fix. Let me share with you encouragement on what it is. What prayer is, is communication between us( Christians ) and God. While as I stated He does bless His children. It is more about conforming us and our will to His will. As this happens when we go to Him in prayer we begin to ask of Him in accordance of His will.
Let me give you example of my own life and being as I have stated, transparent. As I've mentioned before I'm 26 and as much as I'd love to be married and have kids I've left my "love life/story" in the Father's hand. In times past with different christian girls I met I prayed about it and asked for His will to be done. Now granted those words are the most hardest to even though they are only five words try saying them and meaning them and then seeing them lived out. Time and time again God's will has been to this point for me to be single. Am I unhappy? No, for me my joy is in Him and my growing knowledge daily of Him. Has this taken the desire of marriage away? No, in fact He has just shown me daily the greater depth of how to be a better father and husband if it be His will for my life. Brothers and sisters to trust your life and situations in prayer and to say your will be done is what we need to do. It is recognizing He knows our best and putting a complete dependence on Him. Tell me this when has the Lord led you astray? Never! Now how many times have you tried doing things your way and where has it gotten you? Probably discouraged, thinking why did I do this or even asking His forgiveness for making the wrong choice. The point I'm trying to illustrate is prayer is going to Him communicating our needs before Him and trusting Him to know our best. As it is written," trust in the Lord at all times with all thine heart and lean not on thine own understanding"( Proverbs 3:5 ).
Like I stated before most get the idea of prayer as some bowing with eyes shut, but remember prayer is communication between the believer and the Father. It can be silent or out loud. Granted don't act as the pharisees to get the attention of others unless that is the reward in which you seek. It can be with eyes open or eyes closed. I used to think my eyes had to be closed for reverence,but reverence is your attitude in which not only a knee is bowed,but a heart is as well. You acknowledge who you are speaking to. David really understood this well, he spook to God being both real and reverent. Be honest with God, but reverent. Let God know your pains, joys, trials and everything. After all it is not like He doesn't know.
Be encouraged brethren to be in constant communication with Him . I can't begin to tell how much I enjoy time with the Father in prayer. Now while I encourage you in this I by no means would say this to have this replace time in the Word. Instead add more time in prayer along with the Word. I leave you with these encouraging words from David in Psalm 62,
" He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved.
In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.
Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah. "
( Psalm 62:6-8 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Saturday, August 1, 2009
A Lesson On Love For Men ( Ephesians 5:28-29 )
So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.
For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:
Ephesian 5:28-29
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I do believe we are all familiar with this passage and its relevance to marriage. Granted I am a single man and have never been married, but understand what this means.I can't begin to tell you how it breaks my heart when I see men treat the one in whom they said I do to as if they were nothing. They do this in a number of degrading ways from calling them come here and hey you. This right here while some say hey that could be funny. Do you not realize that if a man can not treat a woman with respect he in turn is not showing reverence to God? Some would gather I may be being picky, but friends as the Apostle Paul wrote in verse 21 that we are to submit to one another in reverence to God( Ephesians 5:21 ). That by our submission and showing common dignity and respect we in turn do not do it to elevate them by any means,but do it in reverence to God. This is not the only way,but others tend to make me ill and I would not repeat. Truly in those times it obvious the love of Christ constrains me.
Now I will move into the passage. In verse 28 it says men ought or in our modern English should love women as they love their own bodies. From what I see in a majority of marriages today seeing as the job I work and even when I go in stores there are clearly men who don't do this. Granted a great majority of these men maybe haven't been in church or better off it is evidence there has not been a work done so in their life. This isn't being judgmental this is being honest. Friends you know as well as I do that when Christ comes in you don't stay the same. It just isn't possible. Anyone who tells you that you can stay at the same place in your life where He found you is lying to you. He can meet you anywhere and in any circumstance, He is mighty to save, but I promise He won't leave you there. There is no such thing as a carnal Christian you just won't find it in scripture.
Moving on men should love their wives as they love their own bodies. Men now I know some of my brothers on here may be single as I,but take this advice to heart as you may be married one day. How well do you take care of your body and care for it. The Apostle in no way is saying be a narcissist, but just as you care for the body in which the Lord has given you and would not destroy it nor forget to upkeep it. Take care of your wife in the same manner. Take care of her, nurture her, defend her, and if it comes to be,be willing to die for her, just as Christ laid down His life for us His bride the church( Ephesians 5:25 ). Friends as men we are not called to be wimps,but men( 1 Corinthians 16:13 )!
Friends, brothers it would do you well to read and read it often as you may 1 Corinthians 13. Granted I've made mention of this before,but the very depth of true love is something we can never get enough of. Men do you really want to be a father or husband one day then take time to read it as much as possible. Understand what it means to truly love in such a way. Granted we by no means are perfect,but seek to love as Christ did. That is sacrificial love. Remember love cares not about its own( 1 Corinthians 13:5 ), but cares about the wants and needs of others.
Think on what it says in verse 29 it says no man ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it. Today this sadly paints the picture of what I see. The way men treat women is this way. The reason being is they have forgotten what wedding vows mean anymore and hence forgotten that when they say I do they become one flesh( Genesis 2:23-24 ). Like I stated earlier it breaks my heart,but indeed shows me of the times in which we live in.
Brothers while this obviously seems as more for you, sisters read this as encouragement well. For the brothers I encourage to you to be Ephesian 5 men. Do not be like this world, do not conform to it( Romans 12:2 ), but instead seek to conform daily to the image of Christ Jesus our risen King,Saviour and Lord. For my sisters I pray for you encourage the men you know to be men as this and to not settle for anything less than God's best. Be women of Proverbs 31. Granted by no means there is no such perfect person,but seek a man who has a heart after the Lord's. This can be said for the brothers as well don't think your going to find Miss perfect instead find a women as this, "Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised ( Proverbs 31:30 ) ". Talk about an attractive woman one whom fears the Lord.
Be encouraged my brethren and seek to please the Lord in all you do. Do not waste your life on trifles of this life. Don't take part in the waste of this vanity fair that the rest of the world is engaging in. Instead be on the battlefield for the Lord. This isn't a game, it is a war( 1 Timothy 1:18 ). The weapons are not of flesh, but they are mighty they are prayer and the preaching of the gospel. I leave you with these encouraging words from the Apostle Paul:
"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 no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:
Ephesian 5:28-29
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I do believe we are all familiar with this passage and its relevance to marriage. Granted I am a single man and have never been married, but understand what this means.I can't begin to tell you how it breaks my heart when I see men treat the one in whom they said I do to as if they were nothing. They do this in a number of degrading ways from calling them come here and hey you. This right here while some say hey that could be funny. Do you not realize that if a man can not treat a woman with respect he in turn is not showing reverence to God? Some would gather I may be being picky, but friends as the Apostle Paul wrote in verse 21 that we are to submit to one another in reverence to God( Ephesians 5:21 ). That by our submission and showing common dignity and respect we in turn do not do it to elevate them by any means,but do it in reverence to God. This is not the only way,but others tend to make me ill and I would not repeat. Truly in those times it obvious the love of Christ constrains me.
Now I will move into the passage. In verse 28 it says men ought or in our modern English should love women as they love their own bodies. From what I see in a majority of marriages today seeing as the job I work and even when I go in stores there are clearly men who don't do this. Granted a great majority of these men maybe haven't been in church or better off it is evidence there has not been a work done so in their life. This isn't being judgmental this is being honest. Friends you know as well as I do that when Christ comes in you don't stay the same. It just isn't possible. Anyone who tells you that you can stay at the same place in your life where He found you is lying to you. He can meet you anywhere and in any circumstance, He is mighty to save, but I promise He won't leave you there. There is no such thing as a carnal Christian you just won't find it in scripture.
Moving on men should love their wives as they love their own bodies. Men now I know some of my brothers on here may be single as I,but take this advice to heart as you may be married one day. How well do you take care of your body and care for it. The Apostle in no way is saying be a narcissist, but just as you care for the body in which the Lord has given you and would not destroy it nor forget to upkeep it. Take care of your wife in the same manner. Take care of her, nurture her, defend her, and if it comes to be,be willing to die for her, just as Christ laid down His life for us His bride the church( Ephesians 5:25 ). Friends as men we are not called to be wimps,but men( 1 Corinthians 16:13 )!
Friends, brothers it would do you well to read and read it often as you may 1 Corinthians 13. Granted I've made mention of this before,but the very depth of true love is something we can never get enough of. Men do you really want to be a father or husband one day then take time to read it as much as possible. Understand what it means to truly love in such a way. Granted we by no means are perfect,but seek to love as Christ did. That is sacrificial love. Remember love cares not about its own( 1 Corinthians 13:5 ), but cares about the wants and needs of others.
Think on what it says in verse 29 it says no man ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it. Today this sadly paints the picture of what I see. The way men treat women is this way. The reason being is they have forgotten what wedding vows mean anymore and hence forgotten that when they say I do they become one flesh( Genesis 2:23-24 ). Like I stated earlier it breaks my heart,but indeed shows me of the times in which we live in.
Brothers while this obviously seems as more for you, sisters read this as encouragement well. For the brothers I encourage to you to be Ephesian 5 men. Do not be like this world, do not conform to it( Romans 12:2 ), but instead seek to conform daily to the image of Christ Jesus our risen King,Saviour and Lord. For my sisters I pray for you encourage the men you know to be men as this and to not settle for anything less than God's best. Be women of Proverbs 31. Granted by no means there is no such perfect person,but seek a man who has a heart after the Lord's. This can be said for the brothers as well don't think your going to find Miss perfect instead find a women as this, "Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised ( Proverbs 31:30 ) ". Talk about an attractive woman one whom fears the Lord.
Be encouraged my brethren and seek to please the Lord in all you do. Do not waste your life on trifles of this life. Don't take part in the waste of this vanity fair that the rest of the world is engaging in. Instead be on the battlefield for the Lord. This isn't a game, it is a war( 1 Timothy 1:18 ). The weapons are not of flesh, but they are mighty they are prayer and the preaching of the gospel. I leave you with these encouraging words from the Apostle Paul:
"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 <><
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