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 12:2
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This verse is one of my personal favorites. This verse truly described to me how God transformed me last year in July from the man I was to the man I am now. I know the way I think, the way I act, the way I talk, and just the way I conduct myself is proof that God worked on me from the inside out. The best way I can describe it is He did a spring cleaning of me.
Friends as this verse clearly states we need not be conformed to this world. This means anything of this world, whether in what is what to wear, what to listen to or the top in the box office. Regardless of the world is saying you need not go by what it says,but instead go by the Word of God. Truly if you are saved, a born again Christian I believe in my heart you will not want to partake in things that go against the Word of God. It just doesn't make sense. I'm not saying it will be easy,but it is right. It is written that we are to prove all things( 1 Thessalonians 5:21 ). I've said this many times,but if we share this gospel we should be living it( 1 Corinthians 9:14 ). Friends a living testimony speaks volume. Believe it or not those who are lost are looking for us to fall. They are waiting for us to trip up just so they can somehow criticize us or God. Another thing is most people are so used to dealing with so called Christians that they are sick of it. You know who I am talking about, those who play church by going Sunday for their fire insurance. Brothers and sisters I encourage you to show them that there are those who live the life they talk about. Were not perfect, but we don't go around trying to put on an image of perfection. Instead show them a life that bears the fruit of the spirit( Galatians 5:22-23 ).
For anyone reading this tonight who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do so. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of his forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet, the feet of mercy for He cares( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). Don't let your past or not being perfect get in the way( Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1 John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). Will you choose Him? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 ) ? I encourage you to do so. This is the single greatest choice you will ever make. It is a matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait, make the choice tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !
God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Total Confidence In God ( Psalm 25:1-5 )
Unto thee, O LORD, do I lift up my soul.
O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me.
Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause.
Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths.
Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.
Psalm 25:1-5
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Like I've said on a number of occasions I love the book of Psalms. There seems to be every topic covered there. In fact many times I find that is where I go when reading the bible outside of doing my devotionals and doing bible studies. I'm sure like many of my brothers and sisters in Christ can relate to how David felt in some of these Psalms. Despite however David felt in all situations he knew God was with him at all times. I love how he opens this one with " Unto thee, O LORD, do I lift up my soul." David always knew despite who he was running from or the trouble he was in that the Lord had his soul. This reminds me of when Jesus said of how we should not fear the one who kills the body,but instead the one who could kill both the body and the soul( Matthew 10:28 ). Friends all of us are appointed one death and then to judgment( Hebrews 9:27 ).
Sad thing is when faced with trouble, trials, or even death people are not willing to stand up for what they believe in, much less faith. Today sadly we live in a world where people praise the creation more than the creator. Don't believe it? Look at how they are going green, but removing God and everything that contains any mention or hint at Him from public places. Their excuse is separation of church and state. The more this country turns its back on God the worse things will get. Brothers and sisters I encourage you to be like David and trust in the Lord completely.
Then you see in the next two verses how it talks about those who trust in the Lord or wait on the Lord should never be ashamed. I agree there is nothing to be ashamed of in God or in His Word. His gospel is filled with love, mercy, and forgiveness. He paid our debt by sending His son to die on an old cross so we could have eternal life( John 3:16 ). Friends I haven't found anything in the Word that I'm ashamed of. Now looking back on my past sure I could find some things,but not in the Word.
Then you see in the fourth and fifth verse how David asked for God to direct his paths. Friends if we need guidance all we need to do is just ask God and He will show us. He doesn't hide it from us or make us do certain tasks to obtain it. All He is asks is that we ask. Awesome isn't it, to know God will help guide us every step of the way. Think about it He has given us armor to defend us from the enemy( Ephesians 6:10-17 ), the greatest weapon ever( Ephesians 6:17 ), He promised to be with us every step of the way( Deuteronomy 31:8 ) and on top of all of that He will guide us. Be encouraged everyday knowing that since God is for you brothers and sisters that we have no reason to fear. Remember as it is written the just shall live by faith( Habakkuk 2:4, Galatians 3:11 ) .
For anyone reading this tonight who not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet, the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). Don't let your past or not being perfect get in the way( Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1 John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). Will you choose Him? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 )? I encourage you to do so. This is the single greatest choice you will ever make. It is a matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait, make the choice( Matthew 24:36 )!
God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me.
Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause.
Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths.
Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.
Psalm 25:1-5
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Like I've said on a number of occasions I love the book of Psalms. There seems to be every topic covered there. In fact many times I find that is where I go when reading the bible outside of doing my devotionals and doing bible studies. I'm sure like many of my brothers and sisters in Christ can relate to how David felt in some of these Psalms. Despite however David felt in all situations he knew God was with him at all times. I love how he opens this one with " Unto thee, O LORD, do I lift up my soul." David always knew despite who he was running from or the trouble he was in that the Lord had his soul. This reminds me of when Jesus said of how we should not fear the one who kills the body,but instead the one who could kill both the body and the soul( Matthew 10:28 ). Friends all of us are appointed one death and then to judgment( Hebrews 9:27 ).
Sad thing is when faced with trouble, trials, or even death people are not willing to stand up for what they believe in, much less faith. Today sadly we live in a world where people praise the creation more than the creator. Don't believe it? Look at how they are going green, but removing God and everything that contains any mention or hint at Him from public places. Their excuse is separation of church and state. The more this country turns its back on God the worse things will get. Brothers and sisters I encourage you to be like David and trust in the Lord completely.
Then you see in the next two verses how it talks about those who trust in the Lord or wait on the Lord should never be ashamed. I agree there is nothing to be ashamed of in God or in His Word. His gospel is filled with love, mercy, and forgiveness. He paid our debt by sending His son to die on an old cross so we could have eternal life( John 3:16 ). Friends I haven't found anything in the Word that I'm ashamed of. Now looking back on my past sure I could find some things,but not in the Word.
Then you see in the fourth and fifth verse how David asked for God to direct his paths. Friends if we need guidance all we need to do is just ask God and He will show us. He doesn't hide it from us or make us do certain tasks to obtain it. All He is asks is that we ask. Awesome isn't it, to know God will help guide us every step of the way. Think about it He has given us armor to defend us from the enemy( Ephesians 6:10-17 ), the greatest weapon ever( Ephesians 6:17 ), He promised to be with us every step of the way( Deuteronomy 31:8 ) and on top of all of that He will guide us. Be encouraged everyday knowing that since God is for you brothers and sisters that we have no reason to fear. Remember as it is written the just shall live by faith( Habakkuk 2:4, Galatians 3:11 ) .
For anyone reading this tonight who not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet, the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). Don't let your past or not being perfect get in the way( Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1 John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). Will you choose Him? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 )? I encourage you to do so. This is the single greatest choice you will ever make. It is a matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait, make the choice( Matthew 24:36 )!
God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Don't Take It Personal ( John 15:18-19 )
If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.
If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
John 15:18-19
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Ever had a time where you tried to reach out to a lost person or just tried to share the gospel in public and got a feeling of hate. In fact it probably felt pretty personal either by the words they said or by their expressions. The truth of the matter is, it's not you they fighting against. It is the sin in their lives is feeling threatened by the Holy Spirit who dwells in all true believers. What Jesus was telling His disciples here was don't take things personal they hate who you follow. This message goes the same for the church now that the world doesn't hate us personally,but instead hates who we serve. Why? This world doesn't like being held accountable to anyone for anyone for anything. The thing is all things will be brought into light and into judgment when it's all over.
When I read where it says in the 19 verse how it says you are not of this world. It always reminds me of how we as Christians were bought with a price( 1 Corinthians 6:20 ) and have been separated. Then it also reminds of how there is no fellowship between light and darkness.( 1 John 1:6, Ephesians 5:11 ) So brothers and sisters in Christ be encouraged when sharing the gospel and you are treated harsh do not take it personally. Remember they hate who we serve and instead pray for them. Friends before getting saved I was bad about not wanting to show pity to those who did me wrong. Now my first thought is instead of anger is being sad for them. For if a person does not accept Christ and they die they will spend eternity in hell. Friends that is one thing that motivates me to share the good news of Jesus Christ. So friends I encourage you to share the gospel with anyone who is willing to listen.
For anyone reading this tonight who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do so. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet, the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ).Don't let your past or not being perfect get in the way( Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). will you choose Him? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 ) ? I encourage you to do so. This is the single greatest choice you will ever make. It is a matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait, make the choice tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !
God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
John 15:18-19
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Ever had a time where you tried to reach out to a lost person or just tried to share the gospel in public and got a feeling of hate. In fact it probably felt pretty personal either by the words they said or by their expressions. The truth of the matter is, it's not you they fighting against. It is the sin in their lives is feeling threatened by the Holy Spirit who dwells in all true believers. What Jesus was telling His disciples here was don't take things personal they hate who you follow. This message goes the same for the church now that the world doesn't hate us personally,but instead hates who we serve. Why? This world doesn't like being held accountable to anyone for anyone for anything. The thing is all things will be brought into light and into judgment when it's all over.
When I read where it says in the 19 verse how it says you are not of this world. It always reminds me of how we as Christians were bought with a price( 1 Corinthians 6:20 ) and have been separated. Then it also reminds of how there is no fellowship between light and darkness.( 1 John 1:6, Ephesians 5:11 ) So brothers and sisters in Christ be encouraged when sharing the gospel and you are treated harsh do not take it personally. Remember they hate who we serve and instead pray for them. Friends before getting saved I was bad about not wanting to show pity to those who did me wrong. Now my first thought is instead of anger is being sad for them. For if a person does not accept Christ and they die they will spend eternity in hell. Friends that is one thing that motivates me to share the good news of Jesus Christ. So friends I encourage you to share the gospel with anyone who is willing to listen.
For anyone reading this tonight who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do so. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet, the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ).Don't let your past or not being perfect get in the way( Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). will you choose Him? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 ) ? I encourage you to do so. This is the single greatest choice you will ever make. It is a matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait, make the choice tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !
God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Friday, December 5, 2008
By Your Words ( Matthew 12:34-37 )
O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.
A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Matthew 12:34-37
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These words written in red said by our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Talk about hitting it right on the head. The reason the Pharisees and Sadducees got irritated was not cause He was wrong,but cause He was exposing them for who they really were. As it is written it is not what goes in a man,but what comes out that defiles a man( Matthew 15:11 ). Truly when you speak it says a lot about who you are. It really saddens me to hear people who go to church speak like devils outside the four walls. I just in my humble opinion can't see how someone who loves the Lord and has given their life to Him would speak unbecoming of the gospel. It to me just doesn't make any sense.
When I hear these verse a few different passages come to mind. In Ephesians the fourth chapter the first verse it talks about living worthy of the calling( Ephesians 4:1 ). I know for me when I first got saved I wasn't sure what I was to do in the church. The things to do seemed limited, pastor, youth leader, sunday school teachers and so forth. I thought where did I fit? The thing is as Christians we are all called to share the gospel with all the world. We are to be reaching to the lost and seeking to win souls. That is not just an evangelists or a pastors job that is a Christian's job. In fact I've come to find it to be the most enjoyable job cause I want to do it. Friends part of being born again is you develop compassion for the lost.
Another verse that comes to mind is those who preach the gospel should live the gospel( 1 Corinthians 9:14 ). In other words we should be living lives that match up with scripture. How can we witness to someone if we don't live the life we share with them. That is why I do my best to live a life according to the Word of God. I'm not perfect, just forgiven.
Another thing to consider is before speaking or even after you have said something check it with the Word( 1 Thessalonians 5:21 ). Now I'm not saying you won't make mistakes,but I promise the more you examine how you act and speak by the Word. Then the less you will think about it and just live and act the way God intended you to live( James 4:15 ).
So friends I encourage you to watch how you speak . Speak becoming of the gospel. Use your speech in such a way to reach out to the lost and to shed the light of Jesus Christ on this dark world.
For anyone reading this tonight who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do so. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet,the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). Don't your past or not being perfect get in the way( Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy ( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1 John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). Will you choose Him? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 ) ? I encourage you to do so. This is the single greatest choice you will ever make. It is a matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait, make the choice tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !
God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Matthew 12:34-37
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
These words written in red said by our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Talk about hitting it right on the head. The reason the Pharisees and Sadducees got irritated was not cause He was wrong,but cause He was exposing them for who they really were. As it is written it is not what goes in a man,but what comes out that defiles a man( Matthew 15:11 ). Truly when you speak it says a lot about who you are. It really saddens me to hear people who go to church speak like devils outside the four walls. I just in my humble opinion can't see how someone who loves the Lord and has given their life to Him would speak unbecoming of the gospel. It to me just doesn't make any sense.
When I hear these verse a few different passages come to mind. In Ephesians the fourth chapter the first verse it talks about living worthy of the calling( Ephesians 4:1 ). I know for me when I first got saved I wasn't sure what I was to do in the church. The things to do seemed limited, pastor, youth leader, sunday school teachers and so forth. I thought where did I fit? The thing is as Christians we are all called to share the gospel with all the world. We are to be reaching to the lost and seeking to win souls. That is not just an evangelists or a pastors job that is a Christian's job. In fact I've come to find it to be the most enjoyable job cause I want to do it. Friends part of being born again is you develop compassion for the lost.
Another verse that comes to mind is those who preach the gospel should live the gospel( 1 Corinthians 9:14 ). In other words we should be living lives that match up with scripture. How can we witness to someone if we don't live the life we share with them. That is why I do my best to live a life according to the Word of God. I'm not perfect, just forgiven.
Another thing to consider is before speaking or even after you have said something check it with the Word( 1 Thessalonians 5:21 ). Now I'm not saying you won't make mistakes,but I promise the more you examine how you act and speak by the Word. Then the less you will think about it and just live and act the way God intended you to live( James 4:15 ).
So friends I encourage you to watch how you speak . Speak becoming of the gospel. Use your speech in such a way to reach out to the lost and to shed the light of Jesus Christ on this dark world.
For anyone reading this tonight who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do so. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet,the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). Don't your past or not being perfect get in the way( Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy ( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1 John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). Will you choose Him? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 ) ? I encourage you to do so. This is the single greatest choice you will ever make. It is a matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait, make the choice tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !
God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Saved By Grace Through Faith ( Ephesians 2:8-9 )
For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Ephesians 2:8-9
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There are some people, well sadly a lot of people who think they are good people and going to heaven because they do good things or because they go to church. Well, I'm going to be honest only those who do the will of the Father. The truth of the matter is sadly people put on one image in public and are completely different behind the scenes. I know because sadly that used to be me. Sure I didn't do drugs or anything stupid,but still I put on one face to the public and was another. That was one thing God really dealt with me when I got saved last year. Now I'm not saying I'm perfect now,but I thank God everyday for where He has brought me to. I've quit smoking and drinking, I've lost well over 60 pounds, and just so much. While on the outside and to most I appeared a good man, I had a list of things wrong and only God could fix thing. I reflect now to before July 27 ,2007 and glad to see there is nothing left of that old man.
Another thing I've noticed is people think just cause they go to church that will automatically get them in heaven. The thing is there are people going to church acting like saints and living like devils Monday through Saturday. Who do they think they are fooling? Sure they may fool their pastor, their family, members in the congregation, but they are not fooling God. When judgment day comes they will cry Lord, Lord , but He say depart from me for I never knew you( Matthew 7:23 ). The thing is these people just go for fire insurance and that isn't the reason to go. The reason to go to church is to enjoy fellowship with brothers and sisters in Christ, to praise God, and to learn more in the Word. You shouldn't go cause you have, but instead you should go cause you want to. Friends it's saddens my heart to know there are people out there who just play church and never get committed. There are those who profess Jesus Christ with their lips,but deny Him with their very lifestyles( Isaiah 29:13 ). I encourage you to live the life according to the Word. Don't justify something just to fit in. Instead be peculiar, a holy person worthy of the calling ( Ephesians 4:1 ). Remember like the verse says clearly we are saved by grace through faith. It is nothing we did,but it everything Christ did when He paid our debt on calvary. All He asked is that we believe( John 3:16 ).
For anyone reading this tonight who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do so. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet, the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). Don't let your past or not being perfect get in the way( Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1 John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). Will you choose Him? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 ) ? I encourage you to do so. This is the single greatest choice you will ever make. It is matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait, make the choice tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !
God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Not of works, lest any man should boast.
Ephesians 2:8-9
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There are some people, well sadly a lot of people who think they are good people and going to heaven because they do good things or because they go to church. Well, I'm going to be honest only those who do the will of the Father. The truth of the matter is sadly people put on one image in public and are completely different behind the scenes. I know because sadly that used to be me. Sure I didn't do drugs or anything stupid,but still I put on one face to the public and was another. That was one thing God really dealt with me when I got saved last year. Now I'm not saying I'm perfect now,but I thank God everyday for where He has brought me to. I've quit smoking and drinking, I've lost well over 60 pounds, and just so much. While on the outside and to most I appeared a good man, I had a list of things wrong and only God could fix thing. I reflect now to before July 27 ,2007 and glad to see there is nothing left of that old man.
Another thing I've noticed is people think just cause they go to church that will automatically get them in heaven. The thing is there are people going to church acting like saints and living like devils Monday through Saturday. Who do they think they are fooling? Sure they may fool their pastor, their family, members in the congregation, but they are not fooling God. When judgment day comes they will cry Lord, Lord , but He say depart from me for I never knew you( Matthew 7:23 ). The thing is these people just go for fire insurance and that isn't the reason to go. The reason to go to church is to enjoy fellowship with brothers and sisters in Christ, to praise God, and to learn more in the Word. You shouldn't go cause you have, but instead you should go cause you want to. Friends it's saddens my heart to know there are people out there who just play church and never get committed. There are those who profess Jesus Christ with their lips,but deny Him with their very lifestyles( Isaiah 29:13 ). I encourage you to live the life according to the Word. Don't justify something just to fit in. Instead be peculiar, a holy person worthy of the calling ( Ephesians 4:1 ). Remember like the verse says clearly we are saved by grace through faith. It is nothing we did,but it everything Christ did when He paid our debt on calvary. All He asked is that we believe( John 3:16 ).
For anyone reading this tonight who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do so. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet, the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). Don't let your past or not being perfect get in the way( Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1 John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). Will you choose Him? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 ) ? I encourage you to do so. This is the single greatest choice you will ever make. It is matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait, make the choice tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !
God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Happy To Be Corrected By God ( Job 5:17 )
Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty:
Job 5:17
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You know growing up much like other kids I didn't like getting disciplined. Of course now looking back I see where it did me good. My mom knew what was best for me. She knew that in order for me to live right I need to do certain things in a certain way. Course like many can relate to me as children we grow up being rebellious. Why? Well, if you would have asked me a few years ago I would have said kids will be kids and yes to a degree that is true. The sad truth is much deeper, it is that we are living in a fallen world. Each day that passes it gets worse and worse . More and more families are more divided, crime continues to rise, and everyday sin become more common and acceptable. So as Christians how do we respond? By sharing the Gospel every chance we get. By living a life according to the Word of God. Yes I will admit it isn't easy,but we were never promised it would be( Matthew 7:14 ). Thing is waiting on us in heaven is a great reward of eternal life the greatest gift we ever got.
One problem with society in our fallen world is a lot of problems begin at home. Parents today simply don't care like they used to. I'm not saying there aren't parents that don't,but a majority don't. For us as Christians God is our heavenly Father and if He didn't correct us or punish when we did something He wouldn't be just. See God is love, but He is just as well. Remember when He chastises you its not that He doesn't love, but in fact that He does love and just wants to set you back on course( Hebrews 12:6-7 ).
Friends I've come under this chastisement myself a couple times and believe me I see where God was saying hey John ,you kinda slipped off course. He was demeaning or trying to tear me down. In fact after it was done I felt better cause God showed me somewhere I needed work on and two I immediately felt His love. So friends don't be afraid of chastisement,but don't go lookin' for it. The point is we are trying to live lives according to the gospel we share remember( 1 Corinthians 9:14 ).
For anyone reading this tonight who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do so. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet, the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). Don't let your past or not being perfect get in the way( Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1 John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). Will you choose Him? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 ) ? I encourage you to do so. This is the single greatest choice you will ever make. It is a matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait, make the choice ( Matthew 24:36 )!
God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Job 5:17
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
You know growing up much like other kids I didn't like getting disciplined. Of course now looking back I see where it did me good. My mom knew what was best for me. She knew that in order for me to live right I need to do certain things in a certain way. Course like many can relate to me as children we grow up being rebellious. Why? Well, if you would have asked me a few years ago I would have said kids will be kids and yes to a degree that is true. The sad truth is much deeper, it is that we are living in a fallen world. Each day that passes it gets worse and worse . More and more families are more divided, crime continues to rise, and everyday sin become more common and acceptable. So as Christians how do we respond? By sharing the Gospel every chance we get. By living a life according to the Word of God. Yes I will admit it isn't easy,but we were never promised it would be( Matthew 7:14 ). Thing is waiting on us in heaven is a great reward of eternal life the greatest gift we ever got.
One problem with society in our fallen world is a lot of problems begin at home. Parents today simply don't care like they used to. I'm not saying there aren't parents that don't,but a majority don't. For us as Christians God is our heavenly Father and if He didn't correct us or punish when we did something He wouldn't be just. See God is love, but He is just as well. Remember when He chastises you its not that He doesn't love, but in fact that He does love and just wants to set you back on course( Hebrews 12:6-7 ).
Friends I've come under this chastisement myself a couple times and believe me I see where God was saying hey John ,you kinda slipped off course. He was demeaning or trying to tear me down. In fact after it was done I felt better cause God showed me somewhere I needed work on and two I immediately felt His love. So friends don't be afraid of chastisement,but don't go lookin' for it. The point is we are trying to live lives according to the gospel we share remember( 1 Corinthians 9:14 ).
For anyone reading this tonight who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do so. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet, the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). Don't let your past or not being perfect get in the way( Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1 John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). Will you choose Him? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 ) ? I encourage you to do so. This is the single greatest choice you will ever make. It is a matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait, make the choice ( Matthew 24:36 )!
God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
Monday, December 1, 2008
Inside Renewed Day By Day ( 2 Corinthians 4:16 )
For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
2 Corinthians 4:16
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How I've come to understand this so much more everyday. Despite the fact that none of us can avoid of growing older everyday what is awesome is how God can and will sustain you. This weekend I worked everyday including the day after Thanksgiving and man were we busy. The thing is between this and recently being sick my body has been pretty worn physically yet despite it all my spirits have remained high. I'm not saying I'm perfect,but instead saying I'm thankful every night knowing I have rest in Jesus who renews that inward man. I know the strength( Philippians 4:13 ) I draw on day to day is from Him alone.
I can imagine this is how David must have felt when being on the run from Saul. Brothers and sisters in Christ while we can't do anything about aging as it is just a part of life be glad to know that which dwells in us is renewed daily. Even better as it is written greater is he who is in us than he that which is in this world( 1 John 4:4 ). Share the Word every chance you get. There is nothing in it to be ashamed of and one of the best ways is by living it. After all as Christians we should be living the life we speak of( 1 Corinthians 9:14 ).
For anyone reading this tonight who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do so. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet, the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). Don't your past or not being perfect get in the way( {Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1 John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). Will you choose Him? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 )? I encourage you to do so. It is the single greatest decision you will ever make in your life. It is a matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait , make the choice tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !
God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
2 Corinthians 4:16
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
How I've come to understand this so much more everyday. Despite the fact that none of us can avoid of growing older everyday what is awesome is how God can and will sustain you. This weekend I worked everyday including the day after Thanksgiving and man were we busy. The thing is between this and recently being sick my body has been pretty worn physically yet despite it all my spirits have remained high. I'm not saying I'm perfect,but instead saying I'm thankful every night knowing I have rest in Jesus who renews that inward man. I know the strength( Philippians 4:13 ) I draw on day to day is from Him alone.
I can imagine this is how David must have felt when being on the run from Saul. Brothers and sisters in Christ while we can't do anything about aging as it is just a part of life be glad to know that which dwells in us is renewed daily. Even better as it is written greater is he who is in us than he that which is in this world( 1 John 4:4 ). Share the Word every chance you get. There is nothing in it to be ashamed of and one of the best ways is by living it. After all as Christians we should be living the life we speak of( 1 Corinthians 9:14 ).
For anyone reading this tonight who has not accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and personal Savior I invite you to do so. Ask Him into your heart and admit your a sinner in need of His forgiveness. Be real with Him and cast all your worries, doubts, and fears at His feet, the feet of mercy for He cares for you( 1 Peter 5:7 ). Repent of your old ways and find your identity in Jesus Christ( 2 Corinthians 5:17 ). Don't your past or not being perfect get in the way( {Psalm 103:12, Romans 3:23 ). Instead cast yourself upon His mercy( Luke 18:13 ). Remember He is waiting on you with arms wide open( John 3:16 ). In those arms you will find love( John 15:13 ), mercy( Romans 5:6-8 ), forgiveness( 1 John 1:9 ), and a grace that is sufficient( 2 Corinthians 12:9 ). Will you choose Him? Will you let Him set you free from the bonds of sin( John 8:36 )? I encourage you to do so. It is the single greatest decision you will ever make in your life. It is a matter of life and death, life and death eternal( John 3:18 ). Don't wait , make the choice tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !
God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><
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