As you noticed I was back to writing devotionals going through the Beatitudes. Which a blessing as I noted and will say again as it truly has been and I look forward to getting back to. As the title says I do have a prayer request and that is for my family and I. On Thanksgiving my grandmother passed away and since then I've barely been online just mostly to check emails from school and in general. This Wednesday is the funeral and I ask for prayers of strength and comfort during this time.My mom and sister have taken this the hardest. I ask prayers to give me wisdom that as the days pass after the funeral that I can be used by the Lord for encouragement to them when they need it. I ask prayers for strength for me as well, as so far I'm handling it well, but I'm human and ask for strength on Wednesday. Good night and God bless.
In Christ,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Monday, November 30, 2009
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Blessed Are Those Who Hunger & Thirst After Righteousness ( Matthew 5:6 )
Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
Matthew 5:6
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Good evening and God bless my brethren. The beatitude for tonight rings with such blessedness to the heart of a believer. Truly when looking at the words hunger and thirst you see desire followed by the words "after righteousness". I do believe this is what we all as brothers and sisters long for and desire to grow in hungering and thirsting for righteousness. Tonight my desire is as always to edify the church, bring glory to God and Lord willing someone were to come across this who does not know the Lord may it be used to draw this individual to Christ. As I stated last night the blessing I've had going verse by verse. I'm not sure how many brethren do so take the time to study. Granted we all don't have to be theologians of which I don't think I am, but the scriptures do say study to show thyself approved unto God a workman who need not be ashamed rightly dividing the word of truth( 2 Timothy 2:15). So I encourage you my brethren don't just read the Word take some time to get in and dive into His Word. Take time to meditate on His Word, after all I must ask has it become honey to your lips and better than fine gold? If so than I ask why can one not take sometime and spend more time in the Word getting to know God. For how shall we answer the world and be ready to give them an answer for the hope that is in us(1 Peter 3:15 ), if we read..and sadly that reading only occurs on Sundays or Wednesdays. Please let these thoughts sink in and if you are guilty of any of these I'm praying for you, that you grow in Him. I'm praying that you would truly hunger and thirst for righteousness. That truly you would begin to grasp more and more what it means to seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. I pray this devotional,encourages and convicts if need be. Now to the passage.
Jesus continues in His sermon on the mount with this beatitude by saying, " Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." Alright let examine this passage in two parts beginning with who are blessed.
Once again as we have seen in the previous beatitudes Jesus states blessed and then states who are blessed. In this beatitude we see the blessing of being those who hunger and thirst after righteousness. Now let me examine the blessing in two parts. First we have it says blessed are those who thirst and hunger. Right here I'd like to restate something I stated earlier and that is a desire. Truly when it say we are new creatures in Christ(2 Corinthians 5:17 ), that isn't poetry it's the truth. See before Christ our desire is not seeking or as stated here in His sermon to hunger and thirst for righteousness. Well, we hunger and thirst, but what we desire for is completely different because of our state. The state of natural man is for himself. See this here in this blessing shows just how radical His message was for the people who love God.They will seek Him and His righteousness( Matthew 6:33 ) above all things and people, including their own desires.
This we need to remember today as often we can get caught up in what we want and put God on that back burner. That needs not be the case. Instead we need to say Lord I'd like this,but end when we ask Him Your will be done trusting that He knows best and will provide not only our best,but what will bring glory to Him. I believe in the modern church people are either praying with laundry list or just hoping God gives them what they want and not so much about "His will be done". Truly I could dig into that more,but just some thoughts to meditate on and while you do. Think on these passages, Philippians 1:21 and Romans 12:1.
Now let us continue with it says blessed are those hunger and thirst after righteousness. As stated previously it is the Lord who changes ones desire to seek after righteousness for truly no one, not a single person would seek the Lord if He did not change their nature. For as it is written, "There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. ( Romans 3:11 ) " Left to ourselves it is proven we would not seek after God, but praise be to God for it is Him who changes men and women. I know for my life is evidence of the one true God, the maker of heaven and earth. So what is this righteousness in which those who have been truly changed or as written in the gospel of John, "born of the spirit" ? Well, let me describe this righteousness using the best interpretation of the scriptures and that is the scriptures themselves. Look in Jeremiah 23:6, where it states, "In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE Lord OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS. ( Jeremiah 23:6 )" Let us examine another passage of scripture, "Surely, shall one say, in the Lord have I righteousness and strength: even to him shall men come; and all that are incensed against him shall be ashamed. ( Isaiah 45:24 ) " Are we beginning to gather an idea for what the believer is to hungering and thirsting after? Is it not evident ? For if in the book of the prophet Jeremiah was it said the Lord our righteousness and that was said by our Lord and Saviour blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness. Do you see the connection?
May I should draw one more passage which I hope should make the point clear if not already clear at this point."And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. ( John 6:35 )" Do you see how the very lines connect ? The Lord is our Righteousness in whom we should be seeking with all that we are. There are a few verses that immediately come to mind and often might I add, Deuteronomy 4:29, Deuteronomy 6:5, 1 Corinthians 2:2 , and Matthew 6:33. All of these give us a centrality of God being the focus of our lives. In Deuteronomy 4:29 it speaks of seeking Him with all that you are, in Deuteronomy 6:5 to love Him with all that you are, 1 Corinthians 2:2 the Apostle Paul talks about how he determines know Jesus Christ and Him crucified above all else another words his focus is preaching the gospel above all else, and Matthew 6:33 seeking the Kingdom of God and His righteousness.
Now I move to the second half of the verse where Jesus states for they shall be filled. Now don't get this confused with meaning that once you read God's word once your done and don't need it again. No that is not what He means nor does Jesus mean to His audience or for us believers that at some point we will get enough righteousness and be full. No that is not it at all. No, instead what it means is our filling will be found in God. Our true satisfaction will be found in the things of God. I know that sounds simple,but it is true. For example I can tell you the difference in a day for me. If I miss a day in the Word I know it. I'm miserable, I'm hungry and can't wait to get back in it. Now I'm sure somebody would say yeah right your kidding. but I would say no I mean it. The time spent in the Word of God makes a difference. For me I look forward to that time, just as I look forward to prayer. Once again I will show scripture to interpret scripture. Look at how He truly fills us, "Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. ( John 4:13-14 ) " or here again in the gospel of John, "And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. ( John 6:35 )" This in no way states we won't need daily provisions but,it shows where all comes from and that He is what we truly should be hungering and thirsting after. That in doing so, we should be desiring more and more to be like Him that is growing in holiness and not being like this world. Truly die to our desires and as He said ," Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness."
Brethren I pray this has been as I stated earlier both encouraging and convicting. May you I pray continue to hunger and thirst after righteousness. Now I leave you with these words from the Apostle Paul to the Christians 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 <><
Matthew 5:6
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Good evening and God bless my brethren. The beatitude for tonight rings with such blessedness to the heart of a believer. Truly when looking at the words hunger and thirst you see desire followed by the words "after righteousness". I do believe this is what we all as brothers and sisters long for and desire to grow in hungering and thirsting for righteousness. Tonight my desire is as always to edify the church, bring glory to God and Lord willing someone were to come across this who does not know the Lord may it be used to draw this individual to Christ. As I stated last night the blessing I've had going verse by verse. I'm not sure how many brethren do so take the time to study. Granted we all don't have to be theologians of which I don't think I am, but the scriptures do say study to show thyself approved unto God a workman who need not be ashamed rightly dividing the word of truth( 2 Timothy 2:15). So I encourage you my brethren don't just read the Word take some time to get in and dive into His Word. Take time to meditate on His Word, after all I must ask has it become honey to your lips and better than fine gold? If so than I ask why can one not take sometime and spend more time in the Word getting to know God. For how shall we answer the world and be ready to give them an answer for the hope that is in us(1 Peter 3:15 ), if we read..and sadly that reading only occurs on Sundays or Wednesdays. Please let these thoughts sink in and if you are guilty of any of these I'm praying for you, that you grow in Him. I'm praying that you would truly hunger and thirst for righteousness. That truly you would begin to grasp more and more what it means to seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. I pray this devotional,encourages and convicts if need be. Now to the passage.
Jesus continues in His sermon on the mount with this beatitude by saying, " Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled." Alright let examine this passage in two parts beginning with who are blessed.
Once again as we have seen in the previous beatitudes Jesus states blessed and then states who are blessed. In this beatitude we see the blessing of being those who hunger and thirst after righteousness. Now let me examine the blessing in two parts. First we have it says blessed are those who thirst and hunger. Right here I'd like to restate something I stated earlier and that is a desire. Truly when it say we are new creatures in Christ(2 Corinthians 5:17 ), that isn't poetry it's the truth. See before Christ our desire is not seeking or as stated here in His sermon to hunger and thirst for righteousness. Well, we hunger and thirst, but what we desire for is completely different because of our state. The state of natural man is for himself. See this here in this blessing shows just how radical His message was for the people who love God.They will seek Him and His righteousness( Matthew 6:33 ) above all things and people, including their own desires.
This we need to remember today as often we can get caught up in what we want and put God on that back burner. That needs not be the case. Instead we need to say Lord I'd like this,but end when we ask Him Your will be done trusting that He knows best and will provide not only our best,but what will bring glory to Him. I believe in the modern church people are either praying with laundry list or just hoping God gives them what they want and not so much about "His will be done". Truly I could dig into that more,but just some thoughts to meditate on and while you do. Think on these passages, Philippians 1:21 and Romans 12:1.
Now let us continue with it says blessed are those hunger and thirst after righteousness. As stated previously it is the Lord who changes ones desire to seek after righteousness for truly no one, not a single person would seek the Lord if He did not change their nature. For as it is written, "There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. ( Romans 3:11 ) " Left to ourselves it is proven we would not seek after God, but praise be to God for it is Him who changes men and women. I know for my life is evidence of the one true God, the maker of heaven and earth. So what is this righteousness in which those who have been truly changed or as written in the gospel of John, "born of the spirit" ? Well, let me describe this righteousness using the best interpretation of the scriptures and that is the scriptures themselves. Look in Jeremiah 23:6, where it states, "In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE Lord OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS. ( Jeremiah 23:6 )" Let us examine another passage of scripture, "Surely, shall one say, in the Lord have I righteousness and strength: even to him shall men come; and all that are incensed against him shall be ashamed. ( Isaiah 45:24 ) " Are we beginning to gather an idea for what the believer is to hungering and thirsting after? Is it not evident ? For if in the book of the prophet Jeremiah was it said the Lord our righteousness and that was said by our Lord and Saviour blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness. Do you see the connection?
May I should draw one more passage which I hope should make the point clear if not already clear at this point."And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. ( John 6:35 )" Do you see how the very lines connect ? The Lord is our Righteousness in whom we should be seeking with all that we are. There are a few verses that immediately come to mind and often might I add, Deuteronomy 4:29, Deuteronomy 6:5, 1 Corinthians 2:2 , and Matthew 6:33. All of these give us a centrality of God being the focus of our lives. In Deuteronomy 4:29 it speaks of seeking Him with all that you are, in Deuteronomy 6:5 to love Him with all that you are, 1 Corinthians 2:2 the Apostle Paul talks about how he determines know Jesus Christ and Him crucified above all else another words his focus is preaching the gospel above all else, and Matthew 6:33 seeking the Kingdom of God and His righteousness.
Now I move to the second half of the verse where Jesus states for they shall be filled. Now don't get this confused with meaning that once you read God's word once your done and don't need it again. No that is not what He means nor does Jesus mean to His audience or for us believers that at some point we will get enough righteousness and be full. No that is not it at all. No, instead what it means is our filling will be found in God. Our true satisfaction will be found in the things of God. I know that sounds simple,but it is true. For example I can tell you the difference in a day for me. If I miss a day in the Word I know it. I'm miserable, I'm hungry and can't wait to get back in it. Now I'm sure somebody would say yeah right your kidding. but I would say no I mean it. The time spent in the Word of God makes a difference. For me I look forward to that time, just as I look forward to prayer. Once again I will show scripture to interpret scripture. Look at how He truly fills us, "Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. ( John 4:13-14 ) " or here again in the gospel of John, "And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. ( John 6:35 )" This in no way states we won't need daily provisions but,it shows where all comes from and that He is what we truly should be hungering and thirsting after. That in doing so, we should be desiring more and more to be like Him that is growing in holiness and not being like this world. Truly die to our desires and as He said ," Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness."
Brethren I pray this has been as I stated earlier both encouraging and convicting. May you I pray continue to hunger and thirst after righteousness. Now I leave you with these words from the Apostle Paul to the Christians 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 <><
Monday, November 23, 2009
Blessed Are The Meek: For They Shall Inherit The Earth ( Matthew 5:5 )
Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.
Matthew 5:5
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Tonight I continue in the beatitudes. I must say it has been a joy and a delight these past two devotionals going verse by verse into the richness of the beginning of Jesus first sermon. With Thanksgiving on the horizon in a few days how fitting to share with you this particular verse from the beatitudes. You know I may or may not have mentioned this previously,but it has been on my heart to want to expound and go through the Beatitudes. To me there is such richness and I believe even with most evangelicals being so familiar with the passages I don't think too many take the time to really soak them in and really chew on them. For as I believe I stated before the word beatitude means blessed. Right there we can see Jesus was stating the blessedness of being one of His. How blessed it is to be called an heir and know we are family. It humbles me daily to know God has adopted me. That by the redeeming work of His Son, I am what was it says in the gospel of John, I have become a son and shall dwell forever in the house of the Lord forever as David wrote( John 1:12,Psalm 23:6) . As I mentioned a bit earlier this verse is very fitting before Thanksgiving which is a few days away. For it says the meek shall inherit the earth. I will divulge in more depth as I get into the passage in a bit, but my brethren as we head toward Thanksgiving be thankful for one more thing knowing we are part of those who are to inherit as being adopted in the family of God. Now time to dig into the passage and I pray this both edifies you my brethren and encourages you.
Jesus continues His sermon with, "Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. " First I'd like to start with the word I do believe most people do get confused about and that is meek. First off I will go ahead and be to some measure blunt and say meek does not equal weak. While they do rhyme they do not mean they same thing. Let me give you both of the word's definition and go from there. By definition meek is appropriately humble, self-sufficient, not proud, or refractory. Alright now here is the definition of weak- lacking strength and not able to sustain or exert much weight. Can we see already a difference? By the definition alone we surely can see the contrast in the person. For while the weak person may not be able to sustain themselves it by no way suggests they don't think in anyway they can't handle it. See there is quite a difference in being weak and being meek. For it takes a great measure of humility to admit when you need help. Cause no matter who you are we all need help, especially from God. I know daily I rely on God to make it. For it is Him who sustains and upholds me.
Let me draw an example from this. How many times have you seen where someone despite them not being physically able to handle a task try to undertake it. They do it because simply put they feel they need no one and can get by on their own even though they know the lack of ability in areas and short comings. Still the biggest problem is pride.
By nature we are prideful and it is something that must be dealt with for it will lead to much greater errs. Truly the meek while not perfect sees their imperfections and humbly bows and looks to heaven for help. Knowing with God they shall not make even one step each day for it is Him who provides each breathe. Let me provide a quote from Matthew Henry which I came across while reading a book a month ago and this should shed some more light on this subject.
"Humility softens the soul like wax that we may receive the impression of the seal, whether it be "for doctrine, for reproof, or correction, or for training in righteousness." Humility opens our spiritual ears to discipline, silences the objections of the flesh, and suppresses the risings of the carnal mind against the Word of God. It agrees that the law of God is good and esteems all its precepts to be right even when they give the greatest check to our fleshly pride."
-Matthew Henry
(The Quest for Meekness and Quietness of Spirit,19 )
Matthew Henry put it so eloquently by capturing the essence of humility. For since we who have had our hearts of stone replaced with those of flesh now are being humbled daily by the mercies of God. That truly we see how blessed it is to be meek and in this no longer do we object to things of God,but delight in them and esteem them the more even when chastening occurs.
Notice at the end of the verse it says they shall inherit the earth. Much like the previous verses Jesus does not just say blessed are they and move on,but give explanation. Jesus states blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth. I believe to get an understanding for this we must look to the scriptures for the infallible rule of interpretation of scripture is the scripture itself. Look at the 37th psalm and do you see the theme or what the writer is addressing. David there clearly shows his confidence in God, he also contrasts the ends of the wicked and the godly. While it may seem the wicked flourish and rise up like the grass they shall perish. Another Psalm which may shed some light is the first psalm. For read what it says in the sixth verse and this gives us clear indication to what end the righteous and the wicked see. You see the wicked shall perish, but the righteous shall be established or as Jesus states in this verse in Matthew inherit. Another point to really draw is what makes the difference and that is God. Notice in verse six, it says God knoweth the way of the righteous. Think about what it says in scripture that He is our shepherd(Psalm 23:1), our light, and as it is written ," The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. ( Psalm 37:23 ). "
Consider also when Jesus said for they shall inherit the earth that He meant it. Look at this verse in the book of Revelation," He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. ( Revelation 21:7 )" While yes this points to the future what a blessing it is for if you look at verse eight in contrast these verses paint the same picture as seen in Psalm 37. Granted David did not write lake of fire or about a new heaven and earth, but David understood the difference between the godly and the wicked and to what end they have to look forward to. He understood those who served the Lord with all their hearts and put their trust in Him had eternal life to look to(Psalm 23:6). Those who were wicked and lived by their own means they would perish. David may have had a somewhat veiled understanding as opposed to the Apostle John, but it was clear David knew there was only one way to heaven. One day we as believers will inherit the earth and there our temple will be the lamb and God almighty(Revelation 21:22 ), for the presence of God shall be there among us, not saying His presence isn't with us now, but in such a way we will need no light nor fire for He will be our light( Revelation 21:23 ). So yes truly blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth. Oh what a blessing we have to look forward to. To spend eternity with the Lord our God in His presence forever worship Him.
Brethren be encouraged that while it seems literally these days we can relate to David in Psalm 37, as it seems the wicked of our age flourish extravagantly. Worse off it seems as we suffer and can't seem to rise above as far getting ahead. Brothers and sisters may I encourage you to have the attitude David took in the 37th psalm and that is continue to wait patiently and place total confidence in God. I know we all have days where it gets tough,but we must hold on fast and look to heaven for strength. I know for myself it can be discouraging knowing how many wicked men and women are getting this and that, yet brethren like myself struggle for simple things. Of course I can say personally in not having everything being easily obtained I've grown in trusting the Lord more and more daily. I appreciate everything more and more from daily provisions to the very clothes on my back. For I know the Lord will provide exactly what I need and that is most comforting knowing I have a Heavenly Father who looks after me. Brethren may you also consider the very theme of the beatitudes and that is blessed. As believers we truly are blessed. Blessed to be sparred from the wrath to come. It often has humbled me and even once I wrote or maybe more than that, that if God saw fit to never bless me again that Him saving me was enough of a blessing. For in that He gave me a gift of such value that could not be priced and no other blessing to be compared other than what followed immediately and that was being adopted as an heir. Now may I leave you my brethren with these words of encouragement from the Apostle Paul,
" Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,
To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.
In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;
Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence;
Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. "
( Ephesians 1:3-14 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Matthew 5:5
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tonight I continue in the beatitudes. I must say it has been a joy and a delight these past two devotionals going verse by verse into the richness of the beginning of Jesus first sermon. With Thanksgiving on the horizon in a few days how fitting to share with you this particular verse from the beatitudes. You know I may or may not have mentioned this previously,but it has been on my heart to want to expound and go through the Beatitudes. To me there is such richness and I believe even with most evangelicals being so familiar with the passages I don't think too many take the time to really soak them in and really chew on them. For as I believe I stated before the word beatitude means blessed. Right there we can see Jesus was stating the blessedness of being one of His. How blessed it is to be called an heir and know we are family. It humbles me daily to know God has adopted me. That by the redeeming work of His Son, I am what was it says in the gospel of John, I have become a son and shall dwell forever in the house of the Lord forever as David wrote( John 1:12,Psalm 23:6) . As I mentioned a bit earlier this verse is very fitting before Thanksgiving which is a few days away. For it says the meek shall inherit the earth. I will divulge in more depth as I get into the passage in a bit, but my brethren as we head toward Thanksgiving be thankful for one more thing knowing we are part of those who are to inherit as being adopted in the family of God. Now time to dig into the passage and I pray this both edifies you my brethren and encourages you.
Jesus continues His sermon with, "Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. " First I'd like to start with the word I do believe most people do get confused about and that is meek. First off I will go ahead and be to some measure blunt and say meek does not equal weak. While they do rhyme they do not mean they same thing. Let me give you both of the word's definition and go from there. By definition meek is appropriately humble, self-sufficient, not proud, or refractory. Alright now here is the definition of weak- lacking strength and not able to sustain or exert much weight. Can we see already a difference? By the definition alone we surely can see the contrast in the person. For while the weak person may not be able to sustain themselves it by no way suggests they don't think in anyway they can't handle it. See there is quite a difference in being weak and being meek. For it takes a great measure of humility to admit when you need help. Cause no matter who you are we all need help, especially from God. I know daily I rely on God to make it. For it is Him who sustains and upholds me.
Let me draw an example from this. How many times have you seen where someone despite them not being physically able to handle a task try to undertake it. They do it because simply put they feel they need no one and can get by on their own even though they know the lack of ability in areas and short comings. Still the biggest problem is pride.
By nature we are prideful and it is something that must be dealt with for it will lead to much greater errs. Truly the meek while not perfect sees their imperfections and humbly bows and looks to heaven for help. Knowing with God they shall not make even one step each day for it is Him who provides each breathe. Let me provide a quote from Matthew Henry which I came across while reading a book a month ago and this should shed some more light on this subject.
"Humility softens the soul like wax that we may receive the impression of the seal, whether it be "for doctrine, for reproof, or correction, or for training in righteousness." Humility opens our spiritual ears to discipline, silences the objections of the flesh, and suppresses the risings of the carnal mind against the Word of God. It agrees that the law of God is good and esteems all its precepts to be right even when they give the greatest check to our fleshly pride."
-Matthew Henry
(The Quest for Meekness and Quietness of Spirit,19 )
Matthew Henry put it so eloquently by capturing the essence of humility. For since we who have had our hearts of stone replaced with those of flesh now are being humbled daily by the mercies of God. That truly we see how blessed it is to be meek and in this no longer do we object to things of God,but delight in them and esteem them the more even when chastening occurs.
Notice at the end of the verse it says they shall inherit the earth. Much like the previous verses Jesus does not just say blessed are they and move on,but give explanation. Jesus states blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth. I believe to get an understanding for this we must look to the scriptures for the infallible rule of interpretation of scripture is the scripture itself. Look at the 37th psalm and do you see the theme or what the writer is addressing. David there clearly shows his confidence in God, he also contrasts the ends of the wicked and the godly. While it may seem the wicked flourish and rise up like the grass they shall perish. Another Psalm which may shed some light is the first psalm. For read what it says in the sixth verse and this gives us clear indication to what end the righteous and the wicked see. You see the wicked shall perish, but the righteous shall be established or as Jesus states in this verse in Matthew inherit. Another point to really draw is what makes the difference and that is God. Notice in verse six, it says God knoweth the way of the righteous. Think about what it says in scripture that He is our shepherd(Psalm 23:1), our light, and as it is written ," The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. ( Psalm 37:23 ). "
Consider also when Jesus said for they shall inherit the earth that He meant it. Look at this verse in the book of Revelation," He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. ( Revelation 21:7 )" While yes this points to the future what a blessing it is for if you look at verse eight in contrast these verses paint the same picture as seen in Psalm 37. Granted David did not write lake of fire or about a new heaven and earth, but David understood the difference between the godly and the wicked and to what end they have to look forward to. He understood those who served the Lord with all their hearts and put their trust in Him had eternal life to look to(Psalm 23:6). Those who were wicked and lived by their own means they would perish. David may have had a somewhat veiled understanding as opposed to the Apostle John, but it was clear David knew there was only one way to heaven. One day we as believers will inherit the earth and there our temple will be the lamb and God almighty(Revelation 21:22 ), for the presence of God shall be there among us, not saying His presence isn't with us now, but in such a way we will need no light nor fire for He will be our light( Revelation 21:23 ). So yes truly blessed are the meek for they shall inherit the earth. Oh what a blessing we have to look forward to. To spend eternity with the Lord our God in His presence forever worship Him.
Brethren be encouraged that while it seems literally these days we can relate to David in Psalm 37, as it seems the wicked of our age flourish extravagantly. Worse off it seems as we suffer and can't seem to rise above as far getting ahead. Brothers and sisters may I encourage you to have the attitude David took in the 37th psalm and that is continue to wait patiently and place total confidence in God. I know we all have days where it gets tough,but we must hold on fast and look to heaven for strength. I know for myself it can be discouraging knowing how many wicked men and women are getting this and that, yet brethren like myself struggle for simple things. Of course I can say personally in not having everything being easily obtained I've grown in trusting the Lord more and more daily. I appreciate everything more and more from daily provisions to the very clothes on my back. For I know the Lord will provide exactly what I need and that is most comforting knowing I have a Heavenly Father who looks after me. Brethren may you also consider the very theme of the beatitudes and that is blessed. As believers we truly are blessed. Blessed to be sparred from the wrath to come. It often has humbled me and even once I wrote or maybe more than that, that if God saw fit to never bless me again that Him saving me was enough of a blessing. For in that He gave me a gift of such value that could not be priced and no other blessing to be compared other than what followed immediately and that was being adopted as an heir. Now may I leave you my brethren with these words of encouragement from the Apostle Paul,
" Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,
To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.
In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace;
Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence;
Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself:
That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him:
In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:
That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ.
In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. "
( Ephesians 1:3-14 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Blessed Are Those Who Mourn: For They Shall Be Comforted ( Matthew 5:4 )
Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.
Matthew 5:4
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Tonight I return back to the beatitudes as I feel it is an important text. Not saying it holds any priority over any other text in scripture, but here we have some understanding of being a Christian to some measure. This is not the only place as literally woven throughout scripture we find applications of Christian living and other such for our daily lives. Granted not all just stand out, but remember what the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy and said, "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 )" So often I believe people within evangelical circles take a notion this is more for pastors or those involved in the ministry,but my friends and brethren I urge you do not take this assumption. For to do so whether they see it or not is to take the Word of God with a degree of halfheartedness. Think about about the passage to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. Are you truly loving the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength if your only wanting to read His Word and not study it. I know that may come off harsh and I'm not saying we all have to be theologians, but we should all if we are truly born again want to be growing in the knowledge of Him through His Word, through prayer, and through communion. With these thoughts in mind I pray tonight the text both encourages you and brings glory to God.
As I stated I'm going to continue in the beatitudes picking up with next verse. A few months back I did a devotional from the 94th psalm. When doing that I thought I bet that would never be a bumper sticker much less be found in a Christian bookstore on anything. To some degree maybe not as much the same could be said of this passage. For in this passage the second blessing of believers is that blessed are those who mourn. Of course if He left it there it would be quite odd and I'm sure leave His audience scratching their heads. I'm sure there were quite a few that did,but He didn't end this sentence that way no, He states in the end of the verse for they shall be comforted. The reason I started off that I'm sure you won't see this in Christian bookstores is too often blessing today is associated with physical items or material gain. Yet looking at this you don't see a physical item, but instead a guarantee of comfort during times of mourning. Think my friends and brethren when you lost someone dear. That while yes the pain was very real and seemingly inescapable there was comfort provided and a peace in which you could not describe. It truly was a peace like no other. Truly when in the midst of these disastrous and rough times it is truly amazing to see how the Lord provides in this. Truly He is the God of all comfort.
You know for me in my past before Christ so many times when I had troubles and not just with mourning over death, but in other arenas I hit other outlets. Worse off in my past only a few years before the Lord in His mercy and grace saved me I used to turn to the bottle. This is not unusual for guys in my age these days much less people my age. It seems less healthy habits are where young adults head to, to handle death. Of course these aren't the only avenues in fact mourning has caused some to end their lives. I can't tell you how tough this year has been for me. Amazing how now it has been a little over two years since the Lord saved me,but this year has been trying. Despite the ups and downs I've seen God's continued grace in my life, His renewed mercies daily and how truly being stretched, more and more has only made my dependency for Him grown. It was like I told a dear brother a good while back when I nearly lost my grandmother last year in November, I grew closer to the Lord. My dependency on Him and faith grew as well. The beauty is day by day it does continue to grow and this isn't a rare quality for some believers,but what we all should be experiencing if we are truly born again. If anything when I reflect on 2009 I will see a jump in my growth in Christ and will thank God for the trials allowed for they helped as they worked for my good and brought glory to Him.
Another thing that is food for thought so to say, a way in which the Lord comforts us is by providing people in our lives. Think about the passages in scripture where it speaks on encouraging one another or to weep with those who weep(Romans 12:15b ), or as it written in 1 Thessalonians chapter five in verse 11 to comfort one another( 1 Thessalonians 5:11 ). Scripture indicates to us clearly how truly God comforts us whether it's His direct presence such as time in prayer, communion with Him, or in His Word or if He uses another to do so. As I stated previously truly He is the God of all comfort and how thankful we as believers can be for this comfort and should turn our comfort of blessing into praise. May we truly say with David in Psalm 34, " I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together. ( Psalm 34:1-3 )" Not only does David declare to always praise the Lord,but he encourages other to do so as well. May we do so as well when God brings us comfort may bless His holy name and truly exhort others in praise just as we continue in praise for what He has done.
Brothers be encouraged by this to know when we mourn we can find comfort in Him. Think about about Jesus said to the disciples " And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. ( John 14:16-18 ) " Here Jesus is promising that while He must go to the Father that He will send the Holy Spirit, the spirit which indwells all believers and is the comforter. There it is my friends the promise of comfort or should we say confirmation of what Jesus said on the sermon on the Mount in the beatitudes. Jesus said blessed are they who mourn for they shall be comforted. Truly what a blessing to know He provides a peace which passes all understanding and that I can truly find my rest in Him. Brethren I pray tonight you have been encouraged and edified by this tonight. I now leave you with these words of encouragement from the Apostle Paul in his second letter to the church at Corinth,
"We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.
So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;
Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.
For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal."
(2 Corinthians 4:8-18)
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
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( I apologize for not posting this monday and Lord willing hope to be able to get back writing more often. )
Blessed Are the Poor In Spirit ( Matthew 5:3 )
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:3
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It seems as just when I thought I'd be back to doing this more on a regular basis life didn't allow, but I will say it is a blessing to be writing again on here. Tonight passage comes from the sermon on the mount. A few months back I'd expounded another verse from this same section and I've had this particular section of the text on my heart and felt the need to get back to my devotionals. This section I believe is very well known and as I stated it has been on my heart. I'm not sure why,but I believe there may be a reason for it and I'm just being obedient and willing. I pray tonight my brethren you find both encouragement and edification in this. Not only that may in this you give glory and praise to God. For nothing I write is because I have talent on my own or because I'm great,but cause God uses us earthen vessels to share His gospel both for the lost to draw them to repentance and bring encouragement to the brethren.
As we know this section is the beatitudes which means blessed. In a previous devotional I expounded on verse 11. Hearing the words blessed and persecuted I'm sure may have been to correlate to connecting. Especially in today's society trying to put those words in the same sentence would most certainly throw them through a loop. Tonight I believe you will see something similar. Granted to the Christian we understand to be persecuted is blessed,but to unregenerate person it makes no sense and sounds ludicrous. The text tonight reads blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of God.
Wow can you imagine the look on the face of the people that day. Think about the very condition He states the inheritors of the kingdom of heaven are. They are poor in spirit. To be poor is to be needy and lacking. Yet we are told they shall inherit the kingdom of heaven. Do you see why the sermon on the mount right off was so radical? Here Jesus was sharing how the believer despite their condition their inheritance was great. So often we see those who are living high on the hog and we measure that as those who are rich, but the thing is we need to be reminded that an abundance of possessions does make up one's life ( Luke 12:15 ). Consider also some more scripture to explain what it means to be poor in spirit ( Psalm 40:17,Isaiah 41:17 ). The Lord knows the very condition of His people, but despite what we lack we find what we need in Him. For think about what Matthew 6:33. Of course so often I tell people this we must not skip to the end,but instead see the centralist and focus of that verse. The centrality and focus is to seek God first and foremost in your life, that He is what you build your entire life around. So that you are reminded yes I am poor in spirit, I am needy and dependent, but I know my God will take care of me for He will never leave me nor forsake me( Hebrews 13:5 ).
Remember the story of the rich young ruler. The man had it all yet when Jesus told him how he could inherit eternal life the rich young ruler walked away unhappy. Why you ask? James 2:5 gives us some insight into this, " Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? ( James 2:5 ) " Of course anyone who has read the story of the rich young ruler will see despite keeping all the other commandments he broke one. Remember as it is written, "For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.( James 2:10 )" Like many today he wanted eternal life,but he wanted it more like fire insurance and figured a good moral life was fine. The problem in that one eternal life needs not be treated like fire insurance and sadly there are many who go to church today who do and I pray that they would repent of it and trust in Christ alone to save them. Another problem was moral living. I believe today most people and even in evangelical circles don't realize that you can live a good moral life,but if you are not born again you won't enter the kingdom of heaven. There is only way to heaven and that is through Jesus Christ, Son of the living God( John 14:6 ). There is a diluted gospel going around that says pick Jesus. Well, let me say this in all love, you don't choose Him, He chooses (John 13:18,15:16) and changes whom He saves.
So you can see the contrast of believers as opposed to those whom are lost. While the lost may be living high on the hog with money and other material items they really have nothing. Consider this passage from the book of proverbs, "Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death. ( Proverbs 11:4 )" As the passage clearly indicates money and material items will not spare you on the day of wrath. It does state that righteousness will deliver on that day and by that we know those of us who have trusted in Christ alone will be spared from the wrath to come. Scripture makes it very clear that those who won't believe in Christ, the wrath of God abides on them( John 3:36 ). There is only one way to be saved from this wrath which is to come and that is to place your faith in Christ alone. For there is no other name which a man can be saved by.
Brethren I pray tonight this has brought both encouragement,edification to you and most certainly glory to God. Remember while we are poor in spirit, ours is the kingdom of heaven. Think while those whom are lost may gain many material items here and a lot of us struggle.We need to remember who is our treasure/reward, that is Christ Jesus our Lord and Saviour. May we not forget this,but be reminded daily through prayer, communion with God, and time in His Word. Let us not focus on what we don't have,but instead focus on serving the Lord everyday to the fullest. May our prayer be Lord use me for Your glory and Your praise as it would seem good in Your eyes. Brethren know I do pray for you, it may not be individual names, but you are on my heart daily. I leave you now with these words of encouragement from our Lord and Saviour,
"Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? "
( Matthew 6:25-26 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Matthew 5:4
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Tonight I return back to the beatitudes as I feel it is an important text. Not saying it holds any priority over any other text in scripture, but here we have some understanding of being a Christian to some measure. This is not the only place as literally woven throughout scripture we find applications of Christian living and other such for our daily lives. Granted not all just stand out, but remember what the Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy and said, "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 )" So often I believe people within evangelical circles take a notion this is more for pastors or those involved in the ministry,but my friends and brethren I urge you do not take this assumption. For to do so whether they see it or not is to take the Word of God with a degree of halfheartedness. Think about about the passage to love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. Are you truly loving the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength if your only wanting to read His Word and not study it. I know that may come off harsh and I'm not saying we all have to be theologians, but we should all if we are truly born again want to be growing in the knowledge of Him through His Word, through prayer, and through communion. With these thoughts in mind I pray tonight the text both encourages you and brings glory to God.
As I stated I'm going to continue in the beatitudes picking up with next verse. A few months back I did a devotional from the 94th psalm. When doing that I thought I bet that would never be a bumper sticker much less be found in a Christian bookstore on anything. To some degree maybe not as much the same could be said of this passage. For in this passage the second blessing of believers is that blessed are those who mourn. Of course if He left it there it would be quite odd and I'm sure leave His audience scratching their heads. I'm sure there were quite a few that did,but He didn't end this sentence that way no, He states in the end of the verse for they shall be comforted. The reason I started off that I'm sure you won't see this in Christian bookstores is too often blessing today is associated with physical items or material gain. Yet looking at this you don't see a physical item, but instead a guarantee of comfort during times of mourning. Think my friends and brethren when you lost someone dear. That while yes the pain was very real and seemingly inescapable there was comfort provided and a peace in which you could not describe. It truly was a peace like no other. Truly when in the midst of these disastrous and rough times it is truly amazing to see how the Lord provides in this. Truly He is the God of all comfort.
You know for me in my past before Christ so many times when I had troubles and not just with mourning over death, but in other arenas I hit other outlets. Worse off in my past only a few years before the Lord in His mercy and grace saved me I used to turn to the bottle. This is not unusual for guys in my age these days much less people my age. It seems less healthy habits are where young adults head to, to handle death. Of course these aren't the only avenues in fact mourning has caused some to end their lives. I can't tell you how tough this year has been for me. Amazing how now it has been a little over two years since the Lord saved me,but this year has been trying. Despite the ups and downs I've seen God's continued grace in my life, His renewed mercies daily and how truly being stretched, more and more has only made my dependency for Him grown. It was like I told a dear brother a good while back when I nearly lost my grandmother last year in November, I grew closer to the Lord. My dependency on Him and faith grew as well. The beauty is day by day it does continue to grow and this isn't a rare quality for some believers,but what we all should be experiencing if we are truly born again. If anything when I reflect on 2009 I will see a jump in my growth in Christ and will thank God for the trials allowed for they helped as they worked for my good and brought glory to Him.
Another thing that is food for thought so to say, a way in which the Lord comforts us is by providing people in our lives. Think about the passages in scripture where it speaks on encouraging one another or to weep with those who weep(Romans 12:15b ), or as it written in 1 Thessalonians chapter five in verse 11 to comfort one another( 1 Thessalonians 5:11 ). Scripture indicates to us clearly how truly God comforts us whether it's His direct presence such as time in prayer, communion with Him, or in His Word or if He uses another to do so. As I stated previously truly He is the God of all comfort and how thankful we as believers can be for this comfort and should turn our comfort of blessing into praise. May we truly say with David in Psalm 34, " I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together. ( Psalm 34:1-3 )" Not only does David declare to always praise the Lord,but he encourages other to do so as well. May we do so as well when God brings us comfort may bless His holy name and truly exhort others in praise just as we continue in praise for what He has done.
Brothers be encouraged by this to know when we mourn we can find comfort in Him. Think about about Jesus said to the disciples " And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. ( John 14:16-18 ) " Here Jesus is promising that while He must go to the Father that He will send the Holy Spirit, the spirit which indwells all believers and is the comforter. There it is my friends the promise of comfort or should we say confirmation of what Jesus said on the sermon on the Mount in the beatitudes. Jesus said blessed are they who mourn for they shall be comforted. Truly what a blessing to know He provides a peace which passes all understanding and that I can truly find my rest in Him. Brethren I pray tonight you have been encouraged and edified by this tonight. I now leave you with these words of encouragement from the Apostle Paul in his second letter to the church at Corinth,
"We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.
So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;
Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.
For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal."
(2 Corinthians 4:8-18)
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
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( I apologize for not posting this monday and Lord willing hope to be able to get back writing more often. )
Blessed Are the Poor In Spirit ( Matthew 5:3 )
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:3
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It seems as just when I thought I'd be back to doing this more on a regular basis life didn't allow, but I will say it is a blessing to be writing again on here. Tonight passage comes from the sermon on the mount. A few months back I'd expounded another verse from this same section and I've had this particular section of the text on my heart and felt the need to get back to my devotionals. This section I believe is very well known and as I stated it has been on my heart. I'm not sure why,but I believe there may be a reason for it and I'm just being obedient and willing. I pray tonight my brethren you find both encouragement and edification in this. Not only that may in this you give glory and praise to God. For nothing I write is because I have talent on my own or because I'm great,but cause God uses us earthen vessels to share His gospel both for the lost to draw them to repentance and bring encouragement to the brethren.
As we know this section is the beatitudes which means blessed. In a previous devotional I expounded on verse 11. Hearing the words blessed and persecuted I'm sure may have been to correlate to connecting. Especially in today's society trying to put those words in the same sentence would most certainly throw them through a loop. Tonight I believe you will see something similar. Granted to the Christian we understand to be persecuted is blessed,but to unregenerate person it makes no sense and sounds ludicrous. The text tonight reads blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of God.
Wow can you imagine the look on the face of the people that day. Think about the very condition He states the inheritors of the kingdom of heaven are. They are poor in spirit. To be poor is to be needy and lacking. Yet we are told they shall inherit the kingdom of heaven. Do you see why the sermon on the mount right off was so radical? Here Jesus was sharing how the believer despite their condition their inheritance was great. So often we see those who are living high on the hog and we measure that as those who are rich, but the thing is we need to be reminded that an abundance of possessions does make up one's life ( Luke 12:15 ). Consider also some more scripture to explain what it means to be poor in spirit ( Psalm 40:17,Isaiah 41:17 ). The Lord knows the very condition of His people, but despite what we lack we find what we need in Him. For think about what Matthew 6:33. Of course so often I tell people this we must not skip to the end,but instead see the centralist and focus of that verse. The centrality and focus is to seek God first and foremost in your life, that He is what you build your entire life around. So that you are reminded yes I am poor in spirit, I am needy and dependent, but I know my God will take care of me for He will never leave me nor forsake me( Hebrews 13:5 ).
Remember the story of the rich young ruler. The man had it all yet when Jesus told him how he could inherit eternal life the rich young ruler walked away unhappy. Why you ask? James 2:5 gives us some insight into this, " Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? ( James 2:5 ) " Of course anyone who has read the story of the rich young ruler will see despite keeping all the other commandments he broke one. Remember as it is written, "For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.( James 2:10 )" Like many today he wanted eternal life,but he wanted it more like fire insurance and figured a good moral life was fine. The problem in that one eternal life needs not be treated like fire insurance and sadly there are many who go to church today who do and I pray that they would repent of it and trust in Christ alone to save them. Another problem was moral living. I believe today most people and even in evangelical circles don't realize that you can live a good moral life,but if you are not born again you won't enter the kingdom of heaven. There is only way to heaven and that is through Jesus Christ, Son of the living God( John 14:6 ). There is a diluted gospel going around that says pick Jesus. Well, let me say this in all love, you don't choose Him, He chooses (John 13:18,15:16) and changes whom He saves.
So you can see the contrast of believers as opposed to those whom are lost. While the lost may be living high on the hog with money and other material items they really have nothing. Consider this passage from the book of proverbs, "Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death. ( Proverbs 11:4 )" As the passage clearly indicates money and material items will not spare you on the day of wrath. It does state that righteousness will deliver on that day and by that we know those of us who have trusted in Christ alone will be spared from the wrath to come. Scripture makes it very clear that those who won't believe in Christ, the wrath of God abides on them( John 3:36 ). There is only one way to be saved from this wrath which is to come and that is to place your faith in Christ alone. For there is no other name which a man can be saved by.
Brethren I pray tonight this has brought both encouragement,edification to you and most certainly glory to God. Remember while we are poor in spirit, ours is the kingdom of heaven. Think while those whom are lost may gain many material items here and a lot of us struggle.We need to remember who is our treasure/reward, that is Christ Jesus our Lord and Saviour. May we not forget this,but be reminded daily through prayer, communion with God, and time in His Word. Let us not focus on what we don't have,but instead focus on serving the Lord everyday to the fullest. May our prayer be Lord use me for Your glory and Your praise as it would seem good in Your eyes. Brethren know I do pray for you, it may not be individual names, but you are on my heart daily. I leave you now with these words of encouragement from our Lord and Saviour,
"Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? "
( Matthew 6:25-26 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Monday, November 16, 2009
Blessed Are the Poor In Spirit ( Matthew 5:3 )
Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:3
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It seems as just when I thought I'd be back to doing this more on a regular basis life didn't allow, but I will say it is a blessing to be writing again on here. Tonight passage comes from the sermon on the mount. A few months back I'd expounded another verse from this same section and I've had this particular section of the text on my heart and felt the need to get back to my devotionals. This section I believe is very well known and as I stated it has been on my heart. I'm not sure why,but I believe there may be a reason for it and I'm just being obedient and willing. I pray tonight my brethren you find both encouragement and edification in this. Not only that may in this you give glory and praise to God. For nothing I write is because I have talent on my own or because I'm great,but cause God uses us earthen vessels to share His gospel both for the lost to draw them to repentance and bring encouragement to the brethren.
As we know this section is the beatitudes which means blessed. In a previous devotional I expounded on verse 11. Hearing the words blessed and persecuted I'm sure may have been to correlate to connecting. Especially in today's society trying to put those words in the same sentence would most certainly throw them through a loop. Tonight I believe you will see something similar. Granted to the Christian we understand to be persecuted is blessed,but to unregenerate person it makes no sense and sounds ludicrous. The text tonight reads blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of God.
Wow can you imagine the look on the face of the people that day. Think about the very condition He states the inheritors of the kingdom of heaven are. They are poor in spirit. To be poor is to be needy and lacking. Yet we are told they shall inherit the kingdom of heaven. Do you see why the sermon on the mount right off was so radical? Here Jesus was sharing how the believer despite their condition their inheritance was great. So often we see those who are living high on the hog and we measure that as those who are rich, but the thing is we need to be reminded that an abundance of possessions does make up one's life ( Luke 12:15 ). Consider also some more scripture to explain what it means to be poor in spirit ( Psalm 40:17,Isaiah 41:17 ). The Lord knows the very condition of His people, but despite what we lack we find what we need in Him. For think about what Matthew 6:33. Of course so often I tell people this we must not skip to the end,but instead see the centralist and focus of that verse. The centrality and focus is to seek God first and foremost in your life, that He is what you build your entire life around. So that you are reminded yes I am poor in spirit, I am needy and dependent, but I know my God will take care of me for He will never leave me nor forsake me( Hebrews 13:5 ).
Remember the story of the rich young ruler. The man had it all yet when Jesus told him how he could inherit eternal life the rich young ruler walked away unhappy. Why you ask? James 2:5 gives us some insight into this, " Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? ( James 2:5 ) " Of course anyone who has read the story of the rich young ruler will see despite keeping all the other commandments he broke one. Remember as it is written, "For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.( James 2:10 )" Like many today he wanted eternal life,but he wanted it more like fire insurance and figured a good moral life was fine. The problem in that one eternal life needs not be treated like fire insurance and sadly there are many who go to church today who do and I pray that they would repent of it and trust in Christ alone to save them. Another problem was moral living. I believe today most people and even in evangelical circles don't realize that you can live a good moral life,but if you are not born again you won't enter the kingdom of heaven. There is only way to heaven and that is through Jesus Christ, Son of the living God( John 14:6 ). There is a diluted gospel going around that says pick Jesus. Well, let me say this in all love, you don't choose Him, He chooses (John 13:18,15:16) and changes whom He saves.
So you can see the contrast of believers as opposed to those whom are lost. While the lost may be living high on the hog with money and other material items they really have nothing. Consider this passage from the book of proverbs, "Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death. ( Proverbs 11:4 )" As the passage clearly indicates money and material items will not spare you on the day of wrath. It does state that righteousness will deliver on that day and by that we know those of us who have trusted in Christ alone will be spared from the wrath to come. Scripture makes it very clear that those who won't believe in Christ, the wrath of God abides on them( John 3:36 ). There is only one way to be saved from this wrath which is to come and that is to place your faith in Christ alone. For there is no other name which a man can be saved by.
Brethren I pray tonight this has brought both encouragement,edification to you and most certainly glory to God. Remember while we are poor in spirit, ours is the kingdom of heaven. Think while those whom are lost may gain many material items here and a lot of us struggle.We need to remember who is our treasure/reward, that is Christ Jesus our Lord and Saviour. May we not forget this,but be reminded daily through prayer, communion with God, and time in His Word. Let us not focus on what we don't have,but instead focus on serving the Lord everyday to the fullest. May our prayer be Lord use me for Your glory and Your praise as it would seem good in Your eyes. Brethren know I do pray for you, it may not be individual names, but you are on my heart daily. I leave you now with these words of encouragement from our Lord and Saviour,
"Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? "
( Matthew 6:25-26 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Matthew 5:3
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It seems as just when I thought I'd be back to doing this more on a regular basis life didn't allow, but I will say it is a blessing to be writing again on here. Tonight passage comes from the sermon on the mount. A few months back I'd expounded another verse from this same section and I've had this particular section of the text on my heart and felt the need to get back to my devotionals. This section I believe is very well known and as I stated it has been on my heart. I'm not sure why,but I believe there may be a reason for it and I'm just being obedient and willing. I pray tonight my brethren you find both encouragement and edification in this. Not only that may in this you give glory and praise to God. For nothing I write is because I have talent on my own or because I'm great,but cause God uses us earthen vessels to share His gospel both for the lost to draw them to repentance and bring encouragement to the brethren.
As we know this section is the beatitudes which means blessed. In a previous devotional I expounded on verse 11. Hearing the words blessed and persecuted I'm sure may have been to correlate to connecting. Especially in today's society trying to put those words in the same sentence would most certainly throw them through a loop. Tonight I believe you will see something similar. Granted to the Christian we understand to be persecuted is blessed,but to unregenerate person it makes no sense and sounds ludicrous. The text tonight reads blessed are the poor in spirit for theirs is the kingdom of God.
Wow can you imagine the look on the face of the people that day. Think about the very condition He states the inheritors of the kingdom of heaven are. They are poor in spirit. To be poor is to be needy and lacking. Yet we are told they shall inherit the kingdom of heaven. Do you see why the sermon on the mount right off was so radical? Here Jesus was sharing how the believer despite their condition their inheritance was great. So often we see those who are living high on the hog and we measure that as those who are rich, but the thing is we need to be reminded that an abundance of possessions does make up one's life ( Luke 12:15 ). Consider also some more scripture to explain what it means to be poor in spirit ( Psalm 40:17,Isaiah 41:17 ). The Lord knows the very condition of His people, but despite what we lack we find what we need in Him. For think about what Matthew 6:33. Of course so often I tell people this we must not skip to the end,but instead see the centralist and focus of that verse. The centrality and focus is to seek God first and foremost in your life, that He is what you build your entire life around. So that you are reminded yes I am poor in spirit, I am needy and dependent, but I know my God will take care of me for He will never leave me nor forsake me( Hebrews 13:5 ).
Remember the story of the rich young ruler. The man had it all yet when Jesus told him how he could inherit eternal life the rich young ruler walked away unhappy. Why you ask? James 2:5 gives us some insight into this, " Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him? ( James 2:5 ) " Of course anyone who has read the story of the rich young ruler will see despite keeping all the other commandments he broke one. Remember as it is written, "For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.( James 2:10 )" Like many today he wanted eternal life,but he wanted it more like fire insurance and figured a good moral life was fine. The problem in that one eternal life needs not be treated like fire insurance and sadly there are many who go to church today who do and I pray that they would repent of it and trust in Christ alone to save them. Another problem was moral living. I believe today most people and even in evangelical circles don't realize that you can live a good moral life,but if you are not born again you won't enter the kingdom of heaven. There is only way to heaven and that is through Jesus Christ, Son of the living God( John 14:6 ). There is a diluted gospel going around that says pick Jesus. Well, let me say this in all love, you don't choose Him, He chooses (John 13:18,15:16) and changes whom He saves.
So you can see the contrast of believers as opposed to those whom are lost. While the lost may be living high on the hog with money and other material items they really have nothing. Consider this passage from the book of proverbs, "Riches profit not in the day of wrath: but righteousness delivereth from death. ( Proverbs 11:4 )" As the passage clearly indicates money and material items will not spare you on the day of wrath. It does state that righteousness will deliver on that day and by that we know those of us who have trusted in Christ alone will be spared from the wrath to come. Scripture makes it very clear that those who won't believe in Christ, the wrath of God abides on them( John 3:36 ). There is only one way to be saved from this wrath which is to come and that is to place your faith in Christ alone. For there is no other name which a man can be saved by.
Brethren I pray tonight this has brought both encouragement,edification to you and most certainly glory to God. Remember while we are poor in spirit, ours is the kingdom of heaven. Think while those whom are lost may gain many material items here and a lot of us struggle.We need to remember who is our treasure/reward, that is Christ Jesus our Lord and Saviour. May we not forget this,but be reminded daily through prayer, communion with God, and time in His Word. Let us not focus on what we don't have,but instead focus on serving the Lord everyday to the fullest. May our prayer be Lord use me for Your glory and Your praise as it would seem good in Your eyes. Brethren know I do pray for you, it may not be individual names, but you are on my heart daily. I leave you now with these words of encouragement from our Lord and Saviour,
"Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? "
( Matthew 6:25-26 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
The Truth It Will Set You Free ( John 8:31-36 )
Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;
And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?
Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.
If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
( John 8:31-36 )
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Well, after a week away sadly due to a busy school week and other engagements I'm able to write again. Like I've stated before I enjoy this as I love doing whatever I can for God. No matter what it may be. Whether it seems small in some people's eyes I do this and all I can for the glory of God. I pray tonight brethren this both encourages you and brings edification. Tonight passages come from the gospel of John. This book is one of my personal favorites as it is with most and in this text as I was reading in this chapter a few months back God revealed something to me. When I say revealed I'm not talking new revelation as the book is finished when the apostle John penned the final chapter of the book of Revelation. No what I mean is God showed me just how in some sense I was as those Pharisees when they said we were never in bondage( John 8:33 ). Before coming to Christ I would more than likely have thought the same for I had never been in physical captivity,but as I will get into later and as God showed me the night in which He saved me I was a slave/captive who needed rescue. More than that I was dead and needed to be brought to life. Now I will dive into the text and as I stated earlier I pray this is both encouraging and edifying.
First off we have our Lord and Saviour speaking to those who have believed on what He has said. He speaks to them saying if you continue in my word you are my disciples indeed. Think about this what He is talking about right here. Right here it plain and simple He is talking about those who persevere all through life. It amazes me that people honestly believe your salvation can be lost. I'm sure if I share verses such as Philippians 1:6 or Psalm 23:6 they may say well that's Paul or well David was talking about something else. What is even crazier and I've never had anyone say it to me personally,but people have said this unless I read it in red(another words the words of Christ) than they won't believe it. Well, right here for those still struggling or for some reason seem to believe the doctrine of the perseverance of saints wasn't mentioned by our Lord, here is one instance. Jesus here is emphasizing that to truly be a disciple is not to just be a one time follower,but a continued follower of Him. Today what modern Christianity is defining as disciples is scary. Most who go to church, read their bibles, and pray would say I'm a disciple. Let me expand something those three areas. First do you go to church because of desires to worship God, desire to grow in grace, fellowship with brethren, and would be willing to go regardless the conditions( no a/c or other common modern conveniences). Two do you read your bible only on Sunday,Wednesday while at church or do you read it beyond those days. Outside that do you spend time in His Word studying, not just reading when you can? Third has your prayer life grown in grace? When I say this has it become defined as communion with God and Him conforming your will to His or does your prayer life seem pagan?
In the next verse Jesus states and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free. From reading this verse a few times and seeing that Jesus states you shall know the truth and then states and the truth shall set you free He was getting a point across. One stating that one who a believer has a relationship with the Lord. Think about what it means to know the truth. To know the truth is to know the Lord. For as it is written ," Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John 14:6)" Jesus continues in verse 7 and in that says that if you know Him you will know the Father. There we get an understanding of what Jesus states when He says that many will say on that day Lord, Lord, but He say depart from me I never knew you..ye workers of iniquity. There is a clear understanding that truly those who have truly put their faith in Christ, and in Christ alone know Him and by knowing Him, they know the truth. The second point is the truth shall set you free. We are all under bondage when we are born. For we are born into the bondage of sin. This we inherited from Adam. This occurred from the fall and every person receives this upon birth. So when we know the truth, we truly are set free. This doesn't by any means, mean that we never sin again, but now we are free from it. No longer are we bound to serve it as we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit.
Think of what the Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians," There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.(1 Corinthians 10:13)" Right here it shows how God daily will help us fight when temptation sticks its ugly head in. This is why we must daily suit in the armor of God( Ephesians 6:10-18) for without we are asking to open ourselves to sin. Nobody will live a perfect life, just read Philippians 3, but the Lord does wish for us to be mindful each day for we have an enemy lurking about seeking whom he may devour.
Now we get their response and they respond,but we are Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to anyone. Alright before I continue let me break down this into two parts. For one they state they are Abraham's seed. Here the pharisee try to base their righteousness on their lineage to Abraham. Further down Jesus address this( John 8:44 ). I'm taking that didn't get Him invited to too many houses,but it was true. Think of what the Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 9,"Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed. (Romans 9:6-8) " This directly ties in for shows of what is being said here. A man must both be born of water and the Spirit to enter the kingdom of God(John 3:5-6 ). Here as the pharisees are responding in the passage they are boasting who they were and that they didn't need anyone or anything. What arrogance and terrible understanding. For if they read their copy of scriptures that they had they would see that God counted the faith of Abraham as righteousness. Course then again I'm sure somehow they would credit that to themselves and not realize even that is a gift of God(Ephesians 2:8 ). For unlike them Abraham grew in grace and total dependence upon God. This is evident as you read in the life of Abraham(Genesis 12-25).
Next you see they say they never were in bondage. Well, personally I found that amusing coming from them. For one anyone who has read enough of the scriptures remembers something called the Babylonian captivity. For them to make such an absurd statement just didn't make any sense,but considering how high they thought of themselves it's not surprising. It seems either they forgot history or choose to forget it. I believe the reason they might have chosen to forget it, is because it would bring them to conviction possibly. Think about why Israel and Judah went into captivity. It had to do with them committing all the abominations, transgressions, and sins against God. Read through the book of Isaiah or Jeremiah and you will see what I mean. In addition they currently were under Roman rule. So how they make such a statement is obvious they speak out of purely adulterous and pomp heart.
Here is Jesus response to them. Whoever commits sin is a servant to sin. Now I'm sure none of them would have admit, but they knew in their hearts they were practicing sin. This is what Jesus was referring to. Think about Matthew 7:23," And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. " Another words people who profess Christ,but continue practicing sin are kidding themselves. It is one thing to sin in err, but it is completely different to do so because it is joy. I know by no means am I perfect and have to repent daily, but I seek daily not to upset the Father. I seek daily to please Him in all I do. This life isn't about me pleasing myself or others,but is a life about Him, about bringing His name glory and praise. If this means I'm uncomfortable so be it. We as Christians would do good for our souls to take heart on Galatians 1:10. Do not seek to please others more for when you do that you will begin to compromise who you are to Him. Instead seek to please Him and watch how much better your relationship with them are.
Verse 35 is so beautiful and when I see this verse I think of the twenty-third psalm. Here we are given the blessing of blessed assurance. Of course so much more than that notice Jesus states a difference between a position of being a servant and son. Here He is obviously showing the adoption of those whom God saves. Think about what the Apostle John states early in his gospel, " But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.( John 1:12-13 )" What beauty it is to be called an heir in the kingdom of God. Not only that, but that ye shall abide there forever. David understood this concept as well when he wrote the twenty-third psalm,"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.( Psalm 23:6 )" Maybe not the son ship part,but most certainly that once you were His, He keeps you. David certainly understood blessed assurance.
Jesus then continues with if the Son shall set you free, than you shall be free indeed. Here He is obviously drawing the parallel to what the truth is. Sadly the pharisees don't see it. This is as you will see later in John's gospel that because only His sheep hear His voice. Instead this angered them just as a few lines down He angered them by revealing that their father was not Abraham,but the devil. Truly those who know the truth know Jesus. For as Jesus said He is the way,the truth, and the life( John 14:6 ). To know Him is to have eternal life. For there is only one name by which a man can be saved by and that is Jesus Christ. Truly you can see the simplicity of what Jesus was speaking,but the very blindness and harden hearts they had. To understand why some Jews believed and why these pharisees didn't, read the parable of the sower. Truly it was just as Isaiah had prophesied( Isaiah 6:9-10 ).
My friends and brethren may be encouraged from this that it the Lord who sets the captives free. Truly for me when the Lord showed me a few months back how before Christ I in some sense was like the pharisees. In my BC( before Christ) days I didn't think I was under bondage,but truth be told I was in bondage to sin. For as I look back at my life I see where I practiced many sins some people knew of and others only I knew of. Thankfully today I am set free not based on who I am or from my heritage, but by the grace of God. Today I am continuing to grow in grace , abiding in Christ. Friends be encouraged to share to the world that Jesus Christ still sets captives free today. They much like me may not realize they are captive so be loving and don't neglect in witnessing to use both the law and the gospel. For it the law which will show them their captivity and their need for Christ (Psalm 19:7 ). May I leave you with some encouragement from scripture in the book of Psalms.
"The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.
Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.
Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.
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 19:9-14 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?
Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.
And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.
If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.
( John 8:31-36 )
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Well, after a week away sadly due to a busy school week and other engagements I'm able to write again. Like I've stated before I enjoy this as I love doing whatever I can for God. No matter what it may be. Whether it seems small in some people's eyes I do this and all I can for the glory of God. I pray tonight brethren this both encourages you and brings edification. Tonight passages come from the gospel of John. This book is one of my personal favorites as it is with most and in this text as I was reading in this chapter a few months back God revealed something to me. When I say revealed I'm not talking new revelation as the book is finished when the apostle John penned the final chapter of the book of Revelation. No what I mean is God showed me just how in some sense I was as those Pharisees when they said we were never in bondage( John 8:33 ). Before coming to Christ I would more than likely have thought the same for I had never been in physical captivity,but as I will get into later and as God showed me the night in which He saved me I was a slave/captive who needed rescue. More than that I was dead and needed to be brought to life. Now I will dive into the text and as I stated earlier I pray this is both encouraging and edifying.
First off we have our Lord and Saviour speaking to those who have believed on what He has said. He speaks to them saying if you continue in my word you are my disciples indeed. Think about this what He is talking about right here. Right here it plain and simple He is talking about those who persevere all through life. It amazes me that people honestly believe your salvation can be lost. I'm sure if I share verses such as Philippians 1:6 or Psalm 23:6 they may say well that's Paul or well David was talking about something else. What is even crazier and I've never had anyone say it to me personally,but people have said this unless I read it in red(another words the words of Christ) than they won't believe it. Well, right here for those still struggling or for some reason seem to believe the doctrine of the perseverance of saints wasn't mentioned by our Lord, here is one instance. Jesus here is emphasizing that to truly be a disciple is not to just be a one time follower,but a continued follower of Him. Today what modern Christianity is defining as disciples is scary. Most who go to church, read their bibles, and pray would say I'm a disciple. Let me expand something those three areas. First do you go to church because of desires to worship God, desire to grow in grace, fellowship with brethren, and would be willing to go regardless the conditions( no a/c or other common modern conveniences). Two do you read your bible only on Sunday,Wednesday while at church or do you read it beyond those days. Outside that do you spend time in His Word studying, not just reading when you can? Third has your prayer life grown in grace? When I say this has it become defined as communion with God and Him conforming your will to His or does your prayer life seem pagan?
In the next verse Jesus states and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free. From reading this verse a few times and seeing that Jesus states you shall know the truth and then states and the truth shall set you free He was getting a point across. One stating that one who a believer has a relationship with the Lord. Think about what it means to know the truth. To know the truth is to know the Lord. For as it is written ," Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John 14:6)" Jesus continues in verse 7 and in that says that if you know Him you will know the Father. There we get an understanding of what Jesus states when He says that many will say on that day Lord, Lord, but He say depart from me I never knew you..ye workers of iniquity. There is a clear understanding that truly those who have truly put their faith in Christ, and in Christ alone know Him and by knowing Him, they know the truth. The second point is the truth shall set you free. We are all under bondage when we are born. For we are born into the bondage of sin. This we inherited from Adam. This occurred from the fall and every person receives this upon birth. So when we know the truth, we truly are set free. This doesn't by any means, mean that we never sin again, but now we are free from it. No longer are we bound to serve it as we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit.
Think of what the Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians," There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.(1 Corinthians 10:13)" Right here it shows how God daily will help us fight when temptation sticks its ugly head in. This is why we must daily suit in the armor of God( Ephesians 6:10-18) for without we are asking to open ourselves to sin. Nobody will live a perfect life, just read Philippians 3, but the Lord does wish for us to be mindful each day for we have an enemy lurking about seeking whom he may devour.
Now we get their response and they respond,but we are Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to anyone. Alright before I continue let me break down this into two parts. For one they state they are Abraham's seed. Here the pharisee try to base their righteousness on their lineage to Abraham. Further down Jesus address this( John 8:44 ). I'm taking that didn't get Him invited to too many houses,but it was true. Think of what the Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 9,"Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they are not all Israel, which are of Israel: Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, are they all children: but, In Isaac shall thy seed be called. That is, They which are the children of the flesh, these are not the children of God: but the children of the promise are counted for the seed. (Romans 9:6-8) " This directly ties in for shows of what is being said here. A man must both be born of water and the Spirit to enter the kingdom of God(John 3:5-6 ). Here as the pharisees are responding in the passage they are boasting who they were and that they didn't need anyone or anything. What arrogance and terrible understanding. For if they read their copy of scriptures that they had they would see that God counted the faith of Abraham as righteousness. Course then again I'm sure somehow they would credit that to themselves and not realize even that is a gift of God(Ephesians 2:8 ). For unlike them Abraham grew in grace and total dependence upon God. This is evident as you read in the life of Abraham(Genesis 12-25).
Next you see they say they never were in bondage. Well, personally I found that amusing coming from them. For one anyone who has read enough of the scriptures remembers something called the Babylonian captivity. For them to make such an absurd statement just didn't make any sense,but considering how high they thought of themselves it's not surprising. It seems either they forgot history or choose to forget it. I believe the reason they might have chosen to forget it, is because it would bring them to conviction possibly. Think about why Israel and Judah went into captivity. It had to do with them committing all the abominations, transgressions, and sins against God. Read through the book of Isaiah or Jeremiah and you will see what I mean. In addition they currently were under Roman rule. So how they make such a statement is obvious they speak out of purely adulterous and pomp heart.
Here is Jesus response to them. Whoever commits sin is a servant to sin. Now I'm sure none of them would have admit, but they knew in their hearts they were practicing sin. This is what Jesus was referring to. Think about Matthew 7:23," And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. " Another words people who profess Christ,but continue practicing sin are kidding themselves. It is one thing to sin in err, but it is completely different to do so because it is joy. I know by no means am I perfect and have to repent daily, but I seek daily not to upset the Father. I seek daily to please Him in all I do. This life isn't about me pleasing myself or others,but is a life about Him, about bringing His name glory and praise. If this means I'm uncomfortable so be it. We as Christians would do good for our souls to take heart on Galatians 1:10. Do not seek to please others more for when you do that you will begin to compromise who you are to Him. Instead seek to please Him and watch how much better your relationship with them are.
Verse 35 is so beautiful and when I see this verse I think of the twenty-third psalm. Here we are given the blessing of blessed assurance. Of course so much more than that notice Jesus states a difference between a position of being a servant and son. Here He is obviously showing the adoption of those whom God saves. Think about what the Apostle John states early in his gospel, " But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.( John 1:12-13 )" What beauty it is to be called an heir in the kingdom of God. Not only that, but that ye shall abide there forever. David understood this concept as well when he wrote the twenty-third psalm,"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.( Psalm 23:6 )" Maybe not the son ship part,but most certainly that once you were His, He keeps you. David certainly understood blessed assurance.
Jesus then continues with if the Son shall set you free, than you shall be free indeed. Here He is obviously drawing the parallel to what the truth is. Sadly the pharisees don't see it. This is as you will see later in John's gospel that because only His sheep hear His voice. Instead this angered them just as a few lines down He angered them by revealing that their father was not Abraham,but the devil. Truly those who know the truth know Jesus. For as Jesus said He is the way,the truth, and the life( John 14:6 ). To know Him is to have eternal life. For there is only one name by which a man can be saved by and that is Jesus Christ. Truly you can see the simplicity of what Jesus was speaking,but the very blindness and harden hearts they had. To understand why some Jews believed and why these pharisees didn't, read the parable of the sower. Truly it was just as Isaiah had prophesied( Isaiah 6:9-10 ).
My friends and brethren may be encouraged from this that it the Lord who sets the captives free. Truly for me when the Lord showed me a few months back how before Christ I in some sense was like the pharisees. In my BC( before Christ) days I didn't think I was under bondage,but truth be told I was in bondage to sin. For as I look back at my life I see where I practiced many sins some people knew of and others only I knew of. Thankfully today I am set free not based on who I am or from my heritage, but by the grace of God. Today I am continuing to grow in grace , abiding in Christ. Friends be encouraged to share to the world that Jesus Christ still sets captives free today. They much like me may not realize they are captive so be loving and don't neglect in witnessing to use both the law and the gospel. For it the law which will show them their captivity and their need for Christ (Psalm 19:7 ). May I leave you with some encouragement from scripture in the book of Psalms.
"The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.
Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.
Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.
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 19:9-14 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
In All We Do May We Seek To Please God ( Colossians 3:22-25 )
Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God: And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.
Colossians 3:22-25
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Tonight while I was doing my closing duties at work this text well this one and a few others came across my mind. You know not long after the Lord saved me I remember how I did loathe working on a sunday here and there. That I still do and of course working at a retail sporting place versus out doing mission work or serving in the ministry. The thing was quite early in my walk I felt that if I wasn't reading my bible, in prayer or working in the ministry I couldn't give God glory in other secular areas. Now I will be careful as to not stretch boundaries,but what I didn't understand was that the entire life of the Christian was to give God glory throughout his or her life. Let me expound say when you drink a glass of water have you consider you can do that to the glory of God. You can in that moment before you drink thank God for providing it. Even while you drink think of how He provides such provision and give Him glory for such things that He does daily that while some would seem so mundane you are thankful to see His hand in. Do you see what I mean now and how it changes things. This is what it means to have God literally at the center of your life. That when you are hungry you look to Him. For you know even though you go to the store to buy your groceries it is Him who is providing, for it is Him who keeps you in a job, it is Him who keeps that store there, and it is Him who brought the very food there through the various means. People may call me crazy outside the world of evangelicals, but I personally don't care I will give God the glory for it His and His alone.
Tonight's text the one which of a few that was on my mind was Colossians 3:23, but I felt the need to expound a few other verses around to give context and some understanding. Not only that,but it was so relevant to where I thought on this text and we can apply this not only at work, but in all areas in which we consider mundane. This can range from eating our breakfast to cleaning around the house. May we not take this events and say just another meal or do I have to clean that again,but seek to give God the glory in it. Believe me I'm sure you can as I seek to myself. I'm not saying it is always easy as there are days at work I struggle when dealing with tough customers,but we just need to prayer for strength and encouragement daily. Now I dive into the text and I pray this is both encouraging and most edifying to you my brethren.
Starting in verse 22 the Apostle Paul writes, "Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:" Notice here the apostle states that yes servants are to obey their masters. This in no way endorses slavery. What instead the apostle is talking about is submission to authority. For further instruction read Romans 13. This is we are to submit to their authority as God has placed them in authority and to rebel against them ultimately is to go against God. Remember our first and foremost allegiance is to God. The apostle continues with how to serve them. This is genuine service as not just for attention. Another we do out of a genuine servitude. A good example of this today would be in the work place. When you are under someone don't just do something when they are looking so they will notice,but instead seek to do your best always. Remember we are not living this life to please men. Granted were not here to go around purposefully ticking people off although when you share the gospel it will offend, but ultimately do all things in seeking to please God. This brings me to last point which the apostle states in singleness of heart, fearing God. This to have simplicity or purity of heart. Another words may your heart have a pure motive and the apostle states it that is fearing God. May it be when in the work place we seek to do our best with reverence to our Heavenly Father not seeking the approval of man. Not hoping or thinking they will notice what I've done,but instead having singleness of heart and fearing God.
Next the apostle states and whatsoever you do, do so heartily to the Lord and not to men. Here the apostle is driving the point we should not be out to gain the attention of man. Too often you see it happen in school, work, and other places where people want to get noticed and gain fame. Think for example of the football player TO. I remember reading or hearing something that he was more concerned about getting stats than if his team won. Think about that statement right there. Do you see a big problem ? He has forgotten obvious it is a team sport. Do you also see the very prideful nature of man. How man seeks to please himself and thinks only of himself. My friends left in our unregenerated state that is how we would be. You know I have to remind myself and maybe its being a man I don't know that pride fights everyday. I've come to the honest reality I'm not humble,but instead growing in humility by God's grace daily. It is like I told a dear brother that to say your humble or to write it down on a job application as a quality you might as well have written proud. I can't any credit for this as I heard this from a pastor and its true. For to declare look at me I'm humble rings the very essence of a proud and haughty spirit.
I believe honestly verse 24 is quite simple and to the point. The Apostle Paul states to the Christians at Colosse whom he is addressing that the Lord is the inheritance of believers which is one reason we should not seek man's approval. You know I reflect on the thought and this came to mind a while back the Lord would never have to bless me again with anything and still I would praise Him. For salvation to me is sufficient reason enough to praise,but more than that He is my joy and my portion for ever more.
In closing with verse 25 the apostle writes to whom does wrong will get as they deserve. At the end the apostle notes for the Lord is not a respect of persons stating whether it be the least or greatest they still shall get what they receive. Here he is driving the point that whether you or the one whom you are in submission does wrong it matter not the position for both shall receive their due reward. This goes perfect which what the scriptures say for man is appointed to die once and then to judgment( Hebrews 9:27 ). It matters not if you are the president, a congressmen, or a janitor.
My friends/brethren please take to heart that if you are in place of employment do your best at your work and not so as eyepleasers,but as way to give glory to God in reverence to showing your submission to the authority He has placed in your life. Consider even the mundane task in your life as opportunity to give God glory. Don't take for granted the meals you eat and don't grumble or complain as you do chores,but instead seek even in those to give Him praise. Remember we are to live lives pleasing to God, not men( Galatians 1:10). Consider also when not grumbling you will be seeking to honor God's law and will be seeking to please Him. Do you I ask seek to be more like His son? Do you seek to say with the Apostle Paul I die daily( 1 Corinthians 15:31 )? Here is a few ways in which we do these things. Practical yet I'm sure we may or may not have thought of them,but it is worth not only considering,but applying to our lives. May I leave you with these words of encouragement from psalm 19.
"The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.
Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.
Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.
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 19:9-14 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Colossians 3:22-25
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Tonight while I was doing my closing duties at work this text well this one and a few others came across my mind. You know not long after the Lord saved me I remember how I did loathe working on a sunday here and there. That I still do and of course working at a retail sporting place versus out doing mission work or serving in the ministry. The thing was quite early in my walk I felt that if I wasn't reading my bible, in prayer or working in the ministry I couldn't give God glory in other secular areas. Now I will be careful as to not stretch boundaries,but what I didn't understand was that the entire life of the Christian was to give God glory throughout his or her life. Let me expound say when you drink a glass of water have you consider you can do that to the glory of God. You can in that moment before you drink thank God for providing it. Even while you drink think of how He provides such provision and give Him glory for such things that He does daily that while some would seem so mundane you are thankful to see His hand in. Do you see what I mean now and how it changes things. This is what it means to have God literally at the center of your life. That when you are hungry you look to Him. For you know even though you go to the store to buy your groceries it is Him who is providing, for it is Him who keeps you in a job, it is Him who keeps that store there, and it is Him who brought the very food there through the various means. People may call me crazy outside the world of evangelicals, but I personally don't care I will give God the glory for it His and His alone.
Tonight's text the one which of a few that was on my mind was Colossians 3:23, but I felt the need to expound a few other verses around to give context and some understanding. Not only that,but it was so relevant to where I thought on this text and we can apply this not only at work, but in all areas in which we consider mundane. This can range from eating our breakfast to cleaning around the house. May we not take this events and say just another meal or do I have to clean that again,but seek to give God the glory in it. Believe me I'm sure you can as I seek to myself. I'm not saying it is always easy as there are days at work I struggle when dealing with tough customers,but we just need to prayer for strength and encouragement daily. Now I dive into the text and I pray this is both encouraging and most edifying to you my brethren.
Starting in verse 22 the Apostle Paul writes, "Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:" Notice here the apostle states that yes servants are to obey their masters. This in no way endorses slavery. What instead the apostle is talking about is submission to authority. For further instruction read Romans 13. This is we are to submit to their authority as God has placed them in authority and to rebel against them ultimately is to go against God. Remember our first and foremost allegiance is to God. The apostle continues with how to serve them. This is genuine service as not just for attention. Another we do out of a genuine servitude. A good example of this today would be in the work place. When you are under someone don't just do something when they are looking so they will notice,but instead seek to do your best always. Remember we are not living this life to please men. Granted were not here to go around purposefully ticking people off although when you share the gospel it will offend, but ultimately do all things in seeking to please God. This brings me to last point which the apostle states in singleness of heart, fearing God. This to have simplicity or purity of heart. Another words may your heart have a pure motive and the apostle states it that is fearing God. May it be when in the work place we seek to do our best with reverence to our Heavenly Father not seeking the approval of man. Not hoping or thinking they will notice what I've done,but instead having singleness of heart and fearing God.
Next the apostle states and whatsoever you do, do so heartily to the Lord and not to men. Here the apostle is driving the point we should not be out to gain the attention of man. Too often you see it happen in school, work, and other places where people want to get noticed and gain fame. Think for example of the football player TO. I remember reading or hearing something that he was more concerned about getting stats than if his team won. Think about that statement right there. Do you see a big problem ? He has forgotten obvious it is a team sport. Do you also see the very prideful nature of man. How man seeks to please himself and thinks only of himself. My friends left in our unregenerated state that is how we would be. You know I have to remind myself and maybe its being a man I don't know that pride fights everyday. I've come to the honest reality I'm not humble,but instead growing in humility by God's grace daily. It is like I told a dear brother that to say your humble or to write it down on a job application as a quality you might as well have written proud. I can't any credit for this as I heard this from a pastor and its true. For to declare look at me I'm humble rings the very essence of a proud and haughty spirit.
I believe honestly verse 24 is quite simple and to the point. The Apostle Paul states to the Christians at Colosse whom he is addressing that the Lord is the inheritance of believers which is one reason we should not seek man's approval. You know I reflect on the thought and this came to mind a while back the Lord would never have to bless me again with anything and still I would praise Him. For salvation to me is sufficient reason enough to praise,but more than that He is my joy and my portion for ever more.
In closing with verse 25 the apostle writes to whom does wrong will get as they deserve. At the end the apostle notes for the Lord is not a respect of persons stating whether it be the least or greatest they still shall get what they receive. Here he is driving the point that whether you or the one whom you are in submission does wrong it matter not the position for both shall receive their due reward. This goes perfect which what the scriptures say for man is appointed to die once and then to judgment( Hebrews 9:27 ). It matters not if you are the president, a congressmen, or a janitor.
My friends/brethren please take to heart that if you are in place of employment do your best at your work and not so as eyepleasers,but as way to give glory to God in reverence to showing your submission to the authority He has placed in your life. Consider even the mundane task in your life as opportunity to give God glory. Don't take for granted the meals you eat and don't grumble or complain as you do chores,but instead seek even in those to give Him praise. Remember we are to live lives pleasing to God, not men( Galatians 1:10). Consider also when not grumbling you will be seeking to honor God's law and will be seeking to please Him. Do you I ask seek to be more like His son? Do you seek to say with the Apostle Paul I die daily( 1 Corinthians 15:31 )? Here is a few ways in which we do these things. Practical yet I'm sure we may or may not have thought of them,but it is worth not only considering,but applying to our lives. May I leave you with these words of encouragement from psalm 19.
"The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.
More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.
Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults.
Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.
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 19:9-14 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Devotionals ( Oct 29 & 31 2009 )
A Prayer For Growth In Grace( Colossians 1:9-11 ) ( October 29, 2009 )
For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
Colossians 1:9-11
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Good evening and God bless my brethren I pray you are well. Tonight passages come from the book of Colossians. I believe this to be one of Paul's epistles not as well read or one people are not as familiar with. Often people will quote from or are familiar with passages from Phlippians, Romans, Ephesians just to name a few,but nonetheless all scripture is for our benefit both for nourishment of our souls and the renewing of our minds. Tonight I pray this provides for you encouragement my brethren and now let us dive into the Holy Writ.
This letter as we know was written to the Christians at Colosse just as the Apostle Paul states in verse two( Colossians 1:2 ) near the beginning of this chapter. The Apostle Paul was once again in jail which when you read in the book of Acts this is of no surprise. The apostle was a God fearing man and did not care for his life,but instead sought to share the gospel no matter the cost. Words of his in his letter to Timothy I tell are very encouraging and may we take them to heart. " 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)" The apostle didn't just write these words he lived them, so sadly today I see many quote this,but the evidence is lacking. Well, I believe I've given enough background now to passages for tonight.
In verse nine the Apostle Paul says they heard it. Now the apostle is not meaning they literally heard it as he was in prison. Of course what he is saying is that both he and fellow brethren such as Timothy have heard of it. To me this stands as testimony of how genuine people lived for the faith then. Their very lives being changed by the gospel were spread abroad and this was the thing to share in letters, not whose dating who or who is playing in the world series,but look how the Lord is moving in my life. Look at how my faith has grown thanks to the grace of God. My friends when is the last time we shared in an email, text message or phone conversation so it was shed abroad how God is moving in our lives so someone can say I've heard how your faith is growing. Not just someone in the same town, but a brother or sister miles,states or possibly even on the other side of the world. Another words is God the center piece of conversations or just a decoration?
Continuing on the apostle then states that they do not cease to pray for them. My friends I know I've said this before,but I feel the need to say it again. Do you pray for your brothers and sisters. Are they on your mind ? My prayer is the devotional I posted the other night made us think some more. My friends I'll be honest with you I rarely pray for myself as in something I want. I know most would think yeah right,but it's true. Another point I've mentioned before is prayer is about conforming your will to the will of God. It is truly amazing how when you spend more and more time communing with the Father how you less and less you bring laundry list, but instead bring honest petitions before your heavenly Father who is heaven who knows your needs. How comforting this is as I don't worry about man I hope He answers this or how should I word this. Instead I speak with honesty and all reverence to the One whom gave me life, saved me, redeem me and sustains me. Friends as the apostle states here that they do not cease to pray he is stating his genuine love and adoration for his brethren in bringing before God the Father the petition of those whom he cares for honestly and reverently. See how when we look at prayer rightly it not makes it easier, but it is biblical.
Moving on we see exactly what the Apostle Paul is praying for them for. He prays for a number of things starting at the end of this verse and continuing till verse eleven. One he desires that they might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. Today this should still be something we pray for or brethren. This isn't outdated or something only the Christians then prayed for. No, instead I'd encourage you to do same and pray it. We need a filling of this knowledge of his will, but notice what the apostle write in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. I have seen so many times already in my walk where people obviously either are not seeking or do not want His wisdom in His will for their life yet claim I'm a Christian. Friends we need wisdom and spiritual understanding when making big choices and when using discernment. This gets me every time how I will see things posted about movies watched or stuff read and my first thought was where was your spiritual discernment ? The truth of matter is this we should not only pray for our brethren in this,but for ourselves as well. I pray that I would be filled with this knowledge as to make the best decisions based on His will. What I mean is seeking His face in prayer,seeking a solution that will please Him and bring His name glory in it.
This leads me to verse 10 which says that you "may walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God." I must say this makes me think of something I asked a dear brother of mine the other Sunday and that was how many times do you go to best asking God how much more you could have done for Him. He said everyday. What he meant and what I was saying is we seek in everything and I believe the true believer seeks to do as the Apostle Paul was stating here was being fruitful in every good work. How many times do we waste time in things that aren't bad,but still we could be doing things for His glory and towards growing in knowledge of Him. Why is it we waste this time? The problem is and people will try to answer a number of ways,but I'll get to the heart of the problem is sin. We still battle the flesh and even wasting time is battling flesh. Anything that draws us away from God is a sin. Did you know that? Think about what you more than likely do while wasting time you are playing games. More than that you become consumed with self. Think about it you could be doing something productive and you know it, but instead you don't. So my friends I encourage you the next time you find yourself begin to waste time and have nothing to do why not instead be fruitful with your time and grow in the knowledge of God or seek to share the gospel with someone who knows not the Lord. I challenge not just you,but myself.
Lastly the apostle prays for strength, but not just any strength. He prays for strength with all might according to God's glorious power with all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness. So let us take us moment to take that in. He prays for strength. Just yesterday morning as I was driving to school a a few of my brethren came to mind and I felt compelled to text them of course not while driving. One of things I prayed for them was strength. Now in retrospective it is amazing and I know it was the Lord for one the time in which I was driving to school was at six am and alert to drive it is clear I could not have cleverly thought this up at that second. What really touches my heart was later after one of my classes after sending the text I did get a response from one of my brethren and she replied how it was just what she needed to hear.
Not only that,but he prays that for this strength according to God's glorious power. Friends truly I've seen this in my own life. From the testing of my faith when I nearly lost my grandmother last year in November to His continued provision for my family as my father did not have a job until just recently. truly I have seen His glorious power in my family and most certainly in the work of my life from when he changed this man and continues to work on me daily. Praise be to God!
Not only this,but the apostle notes according to His glorious power with all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness. Here the apostle prays that they would as they pursue growth in the knowledge of God that they would do so with patience and endurance. That they would not give up,but do joyfully. You know I was told by mom when I was kid that I used to give up quite easy at things. I find this quite ironic now. The reason I say this is cause it shows a testimony of how God changes a man and works through a man. Cause if it were up to me I would just give up, but it is Him working in me and through me that I will make it. Does not the scriptures say that work out your salvation with fear and trembling( Philippians 2:12-13 ). This in no way promotes a works based salvation, but talks of the work of God working in us progressing the work of sanctification. My friends I find great confidence in God that He began this work and will finish( Philippians 1:6 ). Not only this I am thankful for the fear I have and that I tremble at His word. I do not take lightly His words,but instead enjoy them as honey on my lips. Where are the people like this anymore who feast on His Word as it were the very thing they needed for each day?
My friends/brethren I pray this encourages you tonight. I pray you grow in the knowledge of God through the reading of His Word. Take time to spend time with Him in communion. I pray also that not only do you read His Word,but find time to study His Word. Remember the Word states that we should study to show thyself approved unto God a workman that need not be ashamed rightly dividing the word of truth( 2 Timothy 2:15 ). May I leave you with these words and I pray they encourage you.
"We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
11 For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.
12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
13 We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;
14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.
15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal "
( 2 Corinthians 4:8-18 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
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Repentance : True & False ( Luke 18:9-14 ) ( October 31, 2009 )
And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
( Luke 18:9-14 )
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Good evening and God bless my brethren on this night. While a vast majority I imagine are spending this evening collecting candy dressing up I wish to say Happy Reformation Day. For today almost 500 years ago God raised up a man by the name of Martin Luther. This German monk desired truth above all else and saw the corruption for what it was and cared not the cost of standing up to the institution, that being the Catholic Church. How it saddens me when I mention his name today or this day most people even within the evangelical realm first gravitate towards to Halloween a holiday that has its roots in pagan rituals and origin then to the day in which the Protestant Reformation begins. Tonight I pray my devotion brings both encouragement and conviction as I pray all my devotions do. Not because of fancy words or because I'm wise, but that I pray God would use me for His glory and for His praise. I made mention of today being Reformation Day because it is, but also in Martin Luther's 95 Theses his first these relates to the passages I wish to speak on tonight and that covers the doctrine of repentance. This I believe to be a fundamental doctrine and one believers need to understand. They need to understand a couple things about repentance: one the difference between true and false repentance, two that repentance is throughout the life of a believer and not a one time deal. Another words it's not as some say in the south, " I've done did that." No from the first moment you repented you continue repenting throughout your life. For you continue to turn away from sin and detest sin more and more. As the Apostle Paul wrote I die daily. Do you think with a statement like that that for him repentance was once? With this in mind let us dive into the text.
Starting off in verse nine it is clear who Jesus is addressing. You know too often I believe today people in the modern evangelical world are afraid to call people out. Now friends we must do things in love, but again there is a time and place for rebuke and correction as well. Take also for instance when John the Baptist spoke out against the Pharisees. The language was strong and he didn't beat around the bust,but got to the point. We must if we truly wish to reach people must be willing to be honest with them. Notice also that Luke reveals to us that those whom Jesus was addressing were full of themselves. Luke states they were righteous,this righteousness was not a pure righteousness,but most surely self righteousness. In addition he notes they despised others. These people obviously looked out for only themselves and cared not for others yet considered themselves righteous. So sad isn't, they thought themselves to be good more than likely based on the good works they did, but meanwhile were looking down on others because these others did run to par with them.
Next in verse ten it states the two men who enter in the temple a Pharisee and a publican. That is to say a tax collector and a religious leader. Which do you suppose the people hearing the parable would trust? The religious leader right? The same would probably so if placed in modern light. Jesus continues Then we have the Pharisee praying to God. Here take note on how not to pray. Here you see one a lack piety, a lack of concern for others, and obviously exalting self. Take a look at what he says I thank thee I am not as other men. Now right there it doesn't sound too bad as I believe we could say we thank God for not being out doing things as others do,but listen how he continues. He goes on to list specifics such as adulterers, extortioners, and then to top it off he states the publican. Alright let us examine this so far as I said yes we should thank God we are not out being step in this sin and committing those same acts, but where is this man's piety to pray for them. Where is he begging for them to turn from their sins and come to God in faith. No you don't see it and worse of all he is talking how much better he is and even comparing himself to someone else in his presence. It is obvious this pharisee is looking to himself and his good works and not to God.
Let us continue and Luke records on with that in verse twelve that the pharisee basically starts bragging. Talk about piety being thrown out the window. He talks about how he has fasted for twice in one week and about his tithing. This is sick it is like he is listing off his check list of good deeds to God like it will impress Him. Friends this is something clearly I believe Jesus was driving across to this crowd and I've shared with others God loves us the same not based on performance. Think about what is recorded in the gospel of Matthew, where it says well done thy good and faithful servant( Matthew 25:23 ). Think on that long and hard. Let the Lord be your joy and not your performance. For when He is your joy you will do much more for Him.
Then in verse thirteen we get it, the beautiful picture of genuine repentance. The publican not even looking up to even strikes his breast and says have mercy on me God for I am a sinner. Do you see that? Let draw to light some important points from that and something we can learn from this passage of scripture. One the fact the publican doesn't look up. This shows he is not haughty nor proud of his state,but in despair. Think my friends whenever your down or at wits is not your head hung low. This I imagine how the publican must have been. Not to mention that,but it shows the reverence in which someone who shows repentance is brought to. One who recognizes the holy and righteous God before whom they ask of His mercy will show the utmost reverence for it is due. Another thing to consider is he says have mercy on me for I am sinner. He asks God for mercy for he knows he needs. The publican recognizes as I states he has offended a holy,just, and righteous God whom he needs mercy from. For surely if not mercy the opposite if justice. Is not in this picture of this parable Christ pointing to Himself the place where we as Christians find mercy. For outside of Christ there is no mercy from the wrath of God.
The last point I'd like to address is that the publican acknowledges he is a sinner. My friends today to ask someone if they are a sinner is ridiculous yet for some reason people actually use this to evangelize. Let me tell you this lost people know they are sinners and a great majority really don't care. Take one look at the world and you will see how they drink down iniquity as if it is water. We must instead of treating them like used car salesmen which is what you sound like when you ask them," Are you a sinner?" Instead you must show them the need for Christ by presenting the law and then give them the gospel. The law can't save them,but it will point them to Christ. Remember what the Apostle Paul said,"What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead. For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.(Romans 7:7-9)" As you see in these verses that clearly the law shows us our very sinful nature and our very need for Christ. This you can see in close of Romans chapter 7 and other places in Paul's epistles.
Jesus then concludes this parable with a few points. First off He states the publican went home justified. That term is a legal term. He was declared righteous before God not based on his works,but on genuine repentance before God. He knew his standing and how he had wronged the holy,righteous, and just God he stood before so he came expecting justice,but asked for mercy. He received mercy for his genuine repentance of not being haughty or proud,but humbling himself before God and recognizing his sinfulness. This mercy came not of works,but of the goodness of God. For God will have mercy on whom He will have mercy( Romans 9:15 ). Jesus also states that everyone who exalts themselves shall be abased and those who humble themselves shall be exalted. I believe Jesus is very clear for those who seek to raise themselves up shall be brought low and them who humble themselves the Lord shall give them notice. This is honor among their brethren. The humble when exalted will never seek to glorify himself,but instead gives this blessing as praise back to God. Think of Psalm 138:6, "Though the Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off. (Psalm 138:6)" He desires those whom love Him entirely and those who seek to exalt themselves already show a lack of love for as it is written if you love me you will obey me( John 14:15 ). By this they are breaking His commandments and show a lack of love for him and a greater love for themselves.
My brethren do you see a difference in true and false repentance. Where the publican recognizes who he was before the Lord God almighty a sinner who had offended Him and needed His mercy. On the other hand we have the pharisee who merely went to him with lip service,but had no genuine showing of repentance. Truly you can see that this pharisee in this parable was living out what the prophet Isaiah spoke of." Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men: (Isaiah 29:13)" I promise you this type of repentance does nothing, but lead to death. If you do it to please a guilty conscience your wasting your time. I instead encourage you don't play games with God. Go in genuine repentance to the Lord God. If you confess to Him both with your lips and heart He is faithful to forgive you and cleanse you from all unrighteousness( 1 John 1:9). My friends repentance is not a one time deal, repentance began the day we first believed and continues throughout a believers life. I pray tonight this has brought both encouragement and enlightened you to some measure in the doctrine of repentance. There are more passage in scripture and one which comes to mind is Psalm 51. Here to me shows a man of God genuinely repenting. Take the time to read it and take heart to David's words. In fact I will leave you will those words to think on. May they be both encouraging and convicting. See how David did not cover his sin, but confessed it and showed true repentance before the Lord.
"Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.
Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.
Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.
Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.
O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.
For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering.
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem.
Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt offering: then shall they offer bullocks upon thine altar."
(Psalm 51:1-19 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
Colossians 1:9-11
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Good evening and God bless my brethren I pray you are well. Tonight passages come from the book of Colossians. I believe this to be one of Paul's epistles not as well read or one people are not as familiar with. Often people will quote from or are familiar with passages from Phlippians, Romans, Ephesians just to name a few,but nonetheless all scripture is for our benefit both for nourishment of our souls and the renewing of our minds. Tonight I pray this provides for you encouragement my brethren and now let us dive into the Holy Writ.
This letter as we know was written to the Christians at Colosse just as the Apostle Paul states in verse two( Colossians 1:2 ) near the beginning of this chapter. The Apostle Paul was once again in jail which when you read in the book of Acts this is of no surprise. The apostle was a God fearing man and did not care for his life,but instead sought to share the gospel no matter the cost. Words of his in his letter to Timothy I tell are very encouraging and may we take them to heart. " 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)" The apostle didn't just write these words he lived them, so sadly today I see many quote this,but the evidence is lacking. Well, I believe I've given enough background now to passages for tonight.
In verse nine the Apostle Paul says they heard it. Now the apostle is not meaning they literally heard it as he was in prison. Of course what he is saying is that both he and fellow brethren such as Timothy have heard of it. To me this stands as testimony of how genuine people lived for the faith then. Their very lives being changed by the gospel were spread abroad and this was the thing to share in letters, not whose dating who or who is playing in the world series,but look how the Lord is moving in my life. Look at how my faith has grown thanks to the grace of God. My friends when is the last time we shared in an email, text message or phone conversation so it was shed abroad how God is moving in our lives so someone can say I've heard how your faith is growing. Not just someone in the same town, but a brother or sister miles,states or possibly even on the other side of the world. Another words is God the center piece of conversations or just a decoration?
Continuing on the apostle then states that they do not cease to pray for them. My friends I know I've said this before,but I feel the need to say it again. Do you pray for your brothers and sisters. Are they on your mind ? My prayer is the devotional I posted the other night made us think some more. My friends I'll be honest with you I rarely pray for myself as in something I want. I know most would think yeah right,but it's true. Another point I've mentioned before is prayer is about conforming your will to the will of God. It is truly amazing how when you spend more and more time communing with the Father how you less and less you bring laundry list, but instead bring honest petitions before your heavenly Father who is heaven who knows your needs. How comforting this is as I don't worry about man I hope He answers this or how should I word this. Instead I speak with honesty and all reverence to the One whom gave me life, saved me, redeem me and sustains me. Friends as the apostle states here that they do not cease to pray he is stating his genuine love and adoration for his brethren in bringing before God the Father the petition of those whom he cares for honestly and reverently. See how when we look at prayer rightly it not makes it easier, but it is biblical.
Moving on we see exactly what the Apostle Paul is praying for them for. He prays for a number of things starting at the end of this verse and continuing till verse eleven. One he desires that they might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. Today this should still be something we pray for or brethren. This isn't outdated or something only the Christians then prayed for. No, instead I'd encourage you to do same and pray it. We need a filling of this knowledge of his will, but notice what the apostle write in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. I have seen so many times already in my walk where people obviously either are not seeking or do not want His wisdom in His will for their life yet claim I'm a Christian. Friends we need wisdom and spiritual understanding when making big choices and when using discernment. This gets me every time how I will see things posted about movies watched or stuff read and my first thought was where was your spiritual discernment ? The truth of matter is this we should not only pray for our brethren in this,but for ourselves as well. I pray that I would be filled with this knowledge as to make the best decisions based on His will. What I mean is seeking His face in prayer,seeking a solution that will please Him and bring His name glory in it.
This leads me to verse 10 which says that you "may walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God." I must say this makes me think of something I asked a dear brother of mine the other Sunday and that was how many times do you go to best asking God how much more you could have done for Him. He said everyday. What he meant and what I was saying is we seek in everything and I believe the true believer seeks to do as the Apostle Paul was stating here was being fruitful in every good work. How many times do we waste time in things that aren't bad,but still we could be doing things for His glory and towards growing in knowledge of Him. Why is it we waste this time? The problem is and people will try to answer a number of ways,but I'll get to the heart of the problem is sin. We still battle the flesh and even wasting time is battling flesh. Anything that draws us away from God is a sin. Did you know that? Think about what you more than likely do while wasting time you are playing games. More than that you become consumed with self. Think about it you could be doing something productive and you know it, but instead you don't. So my friends I encourage you the next time you find yourself begin to waste time and have nothing to do why not instead be fruitful with your time and grow in the knowledge of God or seek to share the gospel with someone who knows not the Lord. I challenge not just you,but myself.
Lastly the apostle prays for strength, but not just any strength. He prays for strength with all might according to God's glorious power with all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness. So let us take us moment to take that in. He prays for strength. Just yesterday morning as I was driving to school a a few of my brethren came to mind and I felt compelled to text them of course not while driving. One of things I prayed for them was strength. Now in retrospective it is amazing and I know it was the Lord for one the time in which I was driving to school was at six am and alert to drive it is clear I could not have cleverly thought this up at that second. What really touches my heart was later after one of my classes after sending the text I did get a response from one of my brethren and she replied how it was just what she needed to hear.
Not only that,but he prays that for this strength according to God's glorious power. Friends truly I've seen this in my own life. From the testing of my faith when I nearly lost my grandmother last year in November to His continued provision for my family as my father did not have a job until just recently. truly I have seen His glorious power in my family and most certainly in the work of my life from when he changed this man and continues to work on me daily. Praise be to God!
Not only this,but the apostle notes according to His glorious power with all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness. Here the apostle prays that they would as they pursue growth in the knowledge of God that they would do so with patience and endurance. That they would not give up,but do joyfully. You know I was told by mom when I was kid that I used to give up quite easy at things. I find this quite ironic now. The reason I say this is cause it shows a testimony of how God changes a man and works through a man. Cause if it were up to me I would just give up, but it is Him working in me and through me that I will make it. Does not the scriptures say that work out your salvation with fear and trembling( Philippians 2:12-13 ). This in no way promotes a works based salvation, but talks of the work of God working in us progressing the work of sanctification. My friends I find great confidence in God that He began this work and will finish( Philippians 1:6 ). Not only this I am thankful for the fear I have and that I tremble at His word. I do not take lightly His words,but instead enjoy them as honey on my lips. Where are the people like this anymore who feast on His Word as it were the very thing they needed for each day?
My friends/brethren I pray this encourages you tonight. I pray you grow in the knowledge of God through the reading of His Word. Take time to spend time with Him in communion. I pray also that not only do you read His Word,but find time to study His Word. Remember the Word states that we should study to show thyself approved unto God a workman that need not be ashamed rightly dividing the word of truth( 2 Timothy 2:15 ). May I leave you with these words and I pray they encourage you.
"We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
11 For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.
12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
13 We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;
14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.
15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal "
( 2 Corinthians 4:8-18 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
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Repentance : True & False ( Luke 18:9-14 ) ( October 31, 2009 )
And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
( Luke 18:9-14 )
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Good evening and God bless my brethren on this night. While a vast majority I imagine are spending this evening collecting candy dressing up I wish to say Happy Reformation Day. For today almost 500 years ago God raised up a man by the name of Martin Luther. This German monk desired truth above all else and saw the corruption for what it was and cared not the cost of standing up to the institution, that being the Catholic Church. How it saddens me when I mention his name today or this day most people even within the evangelical realm first gravitate towards to Halloween a holiday that has its roots in pagan rituals and origin then to the day in which the Protestant Reformation begins. Tonight I pray my devotion brings both encouragement and conviction as I pray all my devotions do. Not because of fancy words or because I'm wise, but that I pray God would use me for His glory and for His praise. I made mention of today being Reformation Day because it is, but also in Martin Luther's 95 Theses his first these relates to the passages I wish to speak on tonight and that covers the doctrine of repentance. This I believe to be a fundamental doctrine and one believers need to understand. They need to understand a couple things about repentance: one the difference between true and false repentance, two that repentance is throughout the life of a believer and not a one time deal. Another words it's not as some say in the south, " I've done did that." No from the first moment you repented you continue repenting throughout your life. For you continue to turn away from sin and detest sin more and more. As the Apostle Paul wrote I die daily. Do you think with a statement like that that for him repentance was once? With this in mind let us dive into the text.
Starting off in verse nine it is clear who Jesus is addressing. You know too often I believe today people in the modern evangelical world are afraid to call people out. Now friends we must do things in love, but again there is a time and place for rebuke and correction as well. Take also for instance when John the Baptist spoke out against the Pharisees. The language was strong and he didn't beat around the bust,but got to the point. We must if we truly wish to reach people must be willing to be honest with them. Notice also that Luke reveals to us that those whom Jesus was addressing were full of themselves. Luke states they were righteous,this righteousness was not a pure righteousness,but most surely self righteousness. In addition he notes they despised others. These people obviously looked out for only themselves and cared not for others yet considered themselves righteous. So sad isn't, they thought themselves to be good more than likely based on the good works they did, but meanwhile were looking down on others because these others did run to par with them.
Next in verse ten it states the two men who enter in the temple a Pharisee and a publican. That is to say a tax collector and a religious leader. Which do you suppose the people hearing the parable would trust? The religious leader right? The same would probably so if placed in modern light. Jesus continues Then we have the Pharisee praying to God. Here take note on how not to pray. Here you see one a lack piety, a lack of concern for others, and obviously exalting self. Take a look at what he says I thank thee I am not as other men. Now right there it doesn't sound too bad as I believe we could say we thank God for not being out doing things as others do,but listen how he continues. He goes on to list specifics such as adulterers, extortioners, and then to top it off he states the publican. Alright let us examine this so far as I said yes we should thank God we are not out being step in this sin and committing those same acts, but where is this man's piety to pray for them. Where is he begging for them to turn from their sins and come to God in faith. No you don't see it and worse of all he is talking how much better he is and even comparing himself to someone else in his presence. It is obvious this pharisee is looking to himself and his good works and not to God.
Let us continue and Luke records on with that in verse twelve that the pharisee basically starts bragging. Talk about piety being thrown out the window. He talks about how he has fasted for twice in one week and about his tithing. This is sick it is like he is listing off his check list of good deeds to God like it will impress Him. Friends this is something clearly I believe Jesus was driving across to this crowd and I've shared with others God loves us the same not based on performance. Think about what is recorded in the gospel of Matthew, where it says well done thy good and faithful servant( Matthew 25:23 ). Think on that long and hard. Let the Lord be your joy and not your performance. For when He is your joy you will do much more for Him.
Then in verse thirteen we get it, the beautiful picture of genuine repentance. The publican not even looking up to even strikes his breast and says have mercy on me God for I am a sinner. Do you see that? Let draw to light some important points from that and something we can learn from this passage of scripture. One the fact the publican doesn't look up. This shows he is not haughty nor proud of his state,but in despair. Think my friends whenever your down or at wits is not your head hung low. This I imagine how the publican must have been. Not to mention that,but it shows the reverence in which someone who shows repentance is brought to. One who recognizes the holy and righteous God before whom they ask of His mercy will show the utmost reverence for it is due. Another thing to consider is he says have mercy on me for I am sinner. He asks God for mercy for he knows he needs. The publican recognizes as I states he has offended a holy,just, and righteous God whom he needs mercy from. For surely if not mercy the opposite if justice. Is not in this picture of this parable Christ pointing to Himself the place where we as Christians find mercy. For outside of Christ there is no mercy from the wrath of God.
The last point I'd like to address is that the publican acknowledges he is a sinner. My friends today to ask someone if they are a sinner is ridiculous yet for some reason people actually use this to evangelize. Let me tell you this lost people know they are sinners and a great majority really don't care. Take one look at the world and you will see how they drink down iniquity as if it is water. We must instead of treating them like used car salesmen which is what you sound like when you ask them," Are you a sinner?" Instead you must show them the need for Christ by presenting the law and then give them the gospel. The law can't save them,but it will point them to Christ. Remember what the Apostle Paul said,"What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead. For I was alive without the law once: but when the commandment came, sin revived, and I died.(Romans 7:7-9)" As you see in these verses that clearly the law shows us our very sinful nature and our very need for Christ. This you can see in close of Romans chapter 7 and other places in Paul's epistles.
Jesus then concludes this parable with a few points. First off He states the publican went home justified. That term is a legal term. He was declared righteous before God not based on his works,but on genuine repentance before God. He knew his standing and how he had wronged the holy,righteous, and just God he stood before so he came expecting justice,but asked for mercy. He received mercy for his genuine repentance of not being haughty or proud,but humbling himself before God and recognizing his sinfulness. This mercy came not of works,but of the goodness of God. For God will have mercy on whom He will have mercy( Romans 9:15 ). Jesus also states that everyone who exalts themselves shall be abased and those who humble themselves shall be exalted. I believe Jesus is very clear for those who seek to raise themselves up shall be brought low and them who humble themselves the Lord shall give them notice. This is honor among their brethren. The humble when exalted will never seek to glorify himself,but instead gives this blessing as praise back to God. Think of Psalm 138:6, "Though the Lord be high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth afar off. (Psalm 138:6)" He desires those whom love Him entirely and those who seek to exalt themselves already show a lack of love for as it is written if you love me you will obey me( John 14:15 ). By this they are breaking His commandments and show a lack of love for him and a greater love for themselves.
My brethren do you see a difference in true and false repentance. Where the publican recognizes who he was before the Lord God almighty a sinner who had offended Him and needed His mercy. On the other hand we have the pharisee who merely went to him with lip service,but had no genuine showing of repentance. Truly you can see that this pharisee in this parable was living out what the prophet Isaiah spoke of." Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men: (Isaiah 29:13)" I promise you this type of repentance does nothing, but lead to death. If you do it to please a guilty conscience your wasting your time. I instead encourage you don't play games with God. Go in genuine repentance to the Lord God. If you confess to Him both with your lips and heart He is faithful to forgive you and cleanse you from all unrighteousness( 1 John 1:9). My friends repentance is not a one time deal, repentance began the day we first believed and continues throughout a believers life. I pray tonight this has brought both encouragement and enlightened you to some measure in the doctrine of repentance. There are more passage in scripture and one which comes to mind is Psalm 51. Here to me shows a man of God genuinely repenting. Take the time to read it and take heart to David's words. In fact I will leave you will those words to think on. May they be both encouraging and convicting. See how David did not cover his sin, but confessed it and showed true repentance before the Lord.
"Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.
Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.
Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.
Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.
Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.
O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.
For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering.
The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem.
Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt offering: then shall they offer bullocks upon thine altar."
(Psalm 51:1-19 )
Good night and God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
A note to those who follow this blog
Lately with school I had not been able to post and recently I have been able to get back to writing these devotionals again. Sadly I forgot to post on here, but I will post those today and Lord willing have one up tonight. Good day and God bless.
In Christ,
John W. Whybrew III <><
In Christ,
John W. Whybrew III <><
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