Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Our Affliction Is For Only A Moment (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)

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 4:17-18

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You know these words after a long day are just the right words I need. It's a reminder that despite how rough or tough the day may have been through the attacks the enemy that the glory and riches waiting in heaven far out weigh the suffering. Awesome isn't to know that one sweet day all brothers and sisters in Christ will be spending eternity with our Lord and Savior in our home in heaven. I get excited thinking about what it will be like to see Jesus face to face. Then as He promised the streets of gold and the many mansions. No more pain, suffering, mourning, or foolish disbelief. Instead we be spending eternity praising God.

In verse 18 it talks about how we as Christians look not at things which are seen for they are temporal(temporary). Instead we focus on things which on not seen which are eternal, Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. He has always been and always will be. I heard in one of my classes last week someone ask if God created man, then who created God. Sadly I didn't get the opportunity to talk to her,but folks so many people in this world can't grasp that God is eternal. God has always existed and will always be regardless if they believe or not. What saddens my heart is if they choose not to believe they will end up in hell. I know some people would say you should put it that way . They would say I'm putting it harsh. The thing is, it is the truth. As it is written Jesus said, I am the way, the truth, and the life and none may come to the Father except through me( John 14:6 ).

Friends I encourage you reach out to someone who doesn't know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Be the person who plants that seed in their life. Don't be afraid to tell them cause you might offend them or it might not be the cool thing to do. Do it because it is the difference of where they will spend eternity. There are many ways to share your faith,but I've found the most profound and impacting way is to be a living testimony. Show this world what a real Christian is. Yes we makes mistakes( Romans 3:23 ),but its not about perfect its about conforming our lives( Romans 12:1-2 ) to being more like Christ everyday.

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 tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !


God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><

Monday, January 12, 2009

Praise The Lord All My Days ( Psalm 146:1-2 )

Praise ye the LORD. Praise the LORD, O my soul.

While I live will I praise the LORD: I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being.

Psalm 146:1-2

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The book of Psalms is one of my favorites as it covers so many emotions. From agony, confidences, praise, sorrow, and many others. Many of them written by David and from the context you can see that no matter what situation David was in he trusted God completely. I love in these two verse in the 146 psalm how David talks about praising the Lord as long as he lives. No matter what we go through in life we should praise God. For God is there both in times of pain and in joy.

I know people say how can I rejoice if I have lost someone to cancer. You can rejoice knowing they no longer suffer and are in better place where there are no disease, there is no grief, and no mourning. Remember as it is written all men are appointed one death and then on to judgment( Hebrews 9:27 ). The beautiful thing to know is once receiving Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior when you die, really life doesn't end, but it continues in our heavenly home.

Friends we have so much to praise God for another day to see those we love(family and friends), another sunrise, losing five pounds, a smile from your baby, or even finding a dollar bill. Those are just a few and I'm sure you could think of many more. I encourage you praise God all the days of your life. Praise Him in the sun and the storms of life.

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 free you 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 <><

Thursday, January 8, 2009

Are You Thankful ? ( Hebrews 13:5-6 )

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

Hebrews 13:5-6
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The definition of covetousness is to excessively desire something that someone else has. Another words to not be satisfied. You know it never ceases to amaze me how people have to have the latest this and that despite how fine their current thing is. What really gets me is how people are always saying man I don't have this or why don't I have this? Another thing they may say is, if I had this life would be so much better or I could do much more. What so many people forget so often is the many blessings around them. When I got saved God opened my eyes and revealed just how blessed I am. He showed me how lucky I am to have parents who love me and support me, I'm alive and well, and everyday I continue to see new blessings. In fact for me I thanked God for a great blessing my grandmother being around another Christmas this past year. I know that it was because of God that she is here.

That is sometimes why I can gets sadden when I hear people talk about not getting the newest video game or shoe. They act like it is the end of the world. While they are so worried they won't get to play or be able to complete their outfit they are missing out on God's great blessings and gifts in life; family, friends, and little moments. Of course the greatest thing we can all always thank Him for is sending His son to die for us. Thanks to Jesus paying our debt on calvary we were able to receive eternal life through grace through faith( Ephesians 2:8-10 ). He didn't ask much, just believe( John 3:16 ), but I promise once you commit to Christ you will want to do more. Not because you have to,but because you will want to. One thing I've told people is I've found is the reason I want is this love I have for Him. I know love for He taught me love first when He showed His love towards me first.

In the sixth verse it talks about a boldness about not being afraid about what others will do to us. Another words we need not be afraid to what people will do to us for sharing the Word. Remember we have nothing to fear of those who can takes our lives,but instead need to fear them one who can kill both the body and soul in hell( Matthew 10:28 ). Friends don't let death or any other forms of intimidation scare you from sharing the Word. We are not to be lights under bushels,but instead held high proclaiming the good news of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and the gift of Salvation He has for all.

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 tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !

God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Study ( 2 Timothy 2:15 )

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

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Brothers and sisters we need to be in God's Word on a daily basis. God has provided His Word to us as a weapon( Ephesians 6:17 ) against our enemy the devil. In addition it has the answer to any question you will ever have. Amazing how people are looking for answers in this world in so many areas from alcohol,drugs, and 1-800 numbers. When all they need to do is pick up God's Word and in there they would find their answers. The kids in the youth group I help with always look at me when it comes to bible trivia. They think I'm a genius. What I've told them is the more you read and the more you let God write on your heart the more you will remember. Remember God's Word should be in your heart. See that was the problem with the Pharisees and the Sadducees is they had the scriptures in their minds,but not in their hearts( Mark 7:6-7 ).

Friends I encourage you get in the Word. Study it , get in deep and to show yourself approved. You know I've found the more I read the more I want to read. I leave you with this brothers and sisters are you at thirst or hungering for God's Word?

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 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( 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 <><

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Walk In The Spirit ( Galatians 5:16 )

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

Galatians 5:16

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The flesh represents the things of this world that are temporary and really have no meaning. In addition their works have no part in heaven, but instead in the lake of fire.( Galatians 5:21 ). I know people always ask how do I keep from sinning ? Well, this verse would be the best answer. I'm not saying you won't ever make a mistake. For we all make mistakes( Romans 3:23 ) and have days where we feel unworthy to be called one of His children,but remember if you ask for His forgiveness He is just to forgive you( 1 John 1:9 ). Another thing to consider is , it is one thing to make a mistake it is another thing to willfully sin( James 4:17 ). You know I've found it so amazing how God does direct the paths of His own as we walk in the Spirit. I've noticed it myself in how I speak and how I act. I in no way am saying I'm perfect, but can testify and say how different I am today from 2 years ago. Remember we are not going to be perfect this side of heaven, but we should make every effort to conform ourselves to His image( Romans 12:2 ). We should make it our purpose everyday to get up and be more like Him and live and act according to His Word( 1 Corinthians 9:14 ).

Brothers and sisters I encourage you to continue walking in the Spirit. As we continue in this new year keep reaching out to people and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ. This world we live in is hurting and in need of answers, and is crying out for the truth. Let us share the Truth and be the light( Matthew 5:16 ).

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 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 <><

Monday, January 5, 2009

The Earth Is The LORD's ( Psalm 24:1-2 )

The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.

For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods.

Psalm 24:1-2

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The first fiver words in the first verse sum things up very well everything is God's. After all He spoke and the world came into existence. You know mankind sure has gotten bold over the years trying to think they don't need God. You can see it in so many ways. From removing prayer in school to taking the Ten Commandments out of government places. The earth is the Lord's,but man is continuing to forget it's creator. Think about recently with all the going green ads. Amazing how hard they are working to save the earth,but none of them are caring about God who created them and the place they live.

It truly saddens me to think people forget about God or just deny Him. The thing is how can they deny Him when all of creation cries out to Him praising Him, from the trees extending their branches, the waves crashing on the shores to the birds chirping. Creation knows who created it and praises Him who is worthy of all praise. What really gets to me is how some people can't make it to church on Sundays because they have something else to do. Another words they are saying they don't have time for God. They are saying they don't have time for the God who gives them life through each breathe and sent His son to die for their sins and ask for them to only believe to receive eternal life( John 3:16 ). Yet they can't give Him an hour of their time on Sunday. I don't know about you,but I love going to church not because I have to,but cause I desire to. Part of being Christian is there should be a desire to fellowship with other brothers and sisters in Christ at church. In addition church is a time to praise God and to learn. So brothers and sisters I encourage you to continue to reach out this year. God can use you, just come to Him with a humble and willing spirit.

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 <><

Thursday, January 1, 2009

True Peace ( John 14:27 )

Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

John 14:27

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Amen to this verse as said from Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. The peace He offers is as He said not like this world offers. The world always tries to offer peace,but always attaches strings. Truly this world can not offer the peace we need in the times we live in. I find that after a rough day that time with God either in prayer or in His Word is the best medicine. It's amazing the peace He provides. This peace speaks to the soul and calms like no other. What saddens my heart is how many times I see in the headlines how people are committing suicide. Those people are wanting to find peace and sadly think death is the way to find it. Brothers and sisters we need to reach out to this world with the Gospel. Tell them there is hope through the Saviour Jesus Christ. When I read this verse tonight I remembered how Jesus is called the prince of peace. So friends remember today is the beginning of 2009 and the beginning of a new year for God to use you to share the gospel to more people.

For anyone reading this tonight who 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 tonight( Matthew 24:36 ) !


God bless,
John W. Whybrew III <><