Happy Sunday!
It was a great week! Full, and tiring but good! I celebrated my 53rd Birthday. I vividly remember being 15 and thinking a 35 year old person was SO OLD! LOL! My how the tables turn! But as I always tell younger people who think they are old, "You can't get old until I do, and I'm not old!" If 120 is my goal, I'm not even middle-aged yet!
Dr. Bill Winston continued the series, "Christ In You", with the subtitle, "The Greater Works". He said, "People have the idea that Christianity is all about escaping the World and going to Heaven". You know the old Negro Spirituals, and hymns we were raised on, "Soon I will be done, with the troubles of this world, the troubles of the world, the troubles of this world...and...I'll fly away, oh glory, I'll fly away, when I die Hallelujah by and by...and...By and by, when the morning comes, all the saints of God will gather at home". Do we need more examples? I hope you get the picture! We have work to do right here on this earth. No matter what age, race, or socioeconomic level...God intends for us to do the WORK of the Kingdom!
John 14:12 describes the kind of works we should be doing..."Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and GREATER works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father."(KJV). OK, so if God expects us to do greater works, we probably should understand what the works of Jesus were. Acts 10:38 says, "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him."(KJV). Let's not make it more complicated than it really is. Stop in the first part of this verse and we have enough to keep us busy for the rest of our lives! DO GOOD!
1 John 3:8(b) says, "For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil."(KJV). The greater works we are to do involve destroying the works of the devil. When we do good...we are doing what Romans 12:21 commands, "Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."(KJV). Every time we choose to do good we destroy the works of the devil. Jesus said, “You’re familiar with the old written law, ‘Love your friend,’ and its unwritten companion, ‘Hate your enemy.’ I’m challenging that. I’m telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that."(Message).
2 Corinthians 2:14 says, "Yet I am so thankful to God, who always marches us to victory under the banner of the Anointed One; and through us He spreads the beautiful fragrance of His knowledge to every corner of the earth."(Voice). Let God use you to do greater works this week.
Love and prayers, Cynthia
Sunday, March 25, 2018
Sunday, March 18, 2018
Walls
Happy Sunday!
Proverbs 25:28 says, "A man without self-control is as defenseless as a city with broken-down walls."(Living Bible). You should read this scripture in multiple translations, it's very interesting. In our modern cities and societies, walls may not mean as much as they did in Bible times. But in the past, walls were a necessity. When the Children of Israel entered the Promised Land they came to Jericho. The Bible says, "Now Jericho was straitly shut up because of the children of Israel: none went out, and none came in."(Joshua 6:1, KJV). The city was fortified, protected from enemy invaders. The inhabitants created an elaborate survival system and were prepared to wait it out. Of course, God had another plan and miraculously caused their defense to crumble.
One of the trips I plan to take is a cruise down the Rhine River in Germany. These cruises travel past Medieval castles and fortresses that have withstood time. Similar to Bible times, these fortresses were built with protection in mind. If needed, thousands of people could retreat to the castle for safety, and be protected behind the walls. Even the Great Wall of China was built to fend off Northern invaders. Self Control is one of the Fruit of the Holy Spirit, and essential in the life of the Believer. Dr. Matthew L. Stevenson III preached a message today called, "Fences". He reminded us that boundaries and standards are vital. In Matthew 22:37, Jesus said, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind (intellect)."(Amplified). When we love Jesus more than any person, place or thing it sets a standard in our lives. There are things we will will not do, places we will not go, and words will will not speak when we have boundaries in our lives. These are not just religious rituals, but these decisions could mean the difference between life and death.
Our lesson today in Children's Church was entitled, "The Enemy's Counterfeit". For months, we have been teaching the children how to hear the Voice of God, and how to flow with the Holy Spirit. Why? Great question. So glad you asked! In order to train someone to differentiate between real and fake they are generally exposed to the authentic. When you know what a real $100 bill looks like and feels like, you can compare and identify the counterfeit bills. During the Western Expansion, gold was king. Individuals left the comfort of their homes in search of a fortune available in California and other states. Many were fooled by iron pyrite, or fools gold. Just as thieves and counterfeiters get more an more skilled at what they do, Believers must become more and more alert and aware. I often use this example with children...parents allow their children to play in the fenced yard. They want them to enjoy themselves, but they also want to protect them from the dangers beyond the fence. The enemy wants us to think we are missing out on something outside this boundary. What we are really missing out on is danger, pain, and possible death. God has set standards for us in the Word not to restrict our enjoyment, but to keep us safe. 1 Timothy 6:17 says, "Here’s what you say to those wealthy in regard to this age: “Don’t become high and mighty or place all your hope on a gamble for riches; instead, fix your hope on God, the One who richly provides Everything for our Enjoyment.”(Voice). Don't miss this! God wants your well, happy, and enjoying life.
We always come back to the Word. God will never contradict his Word. Knowing the Word and applying it to our daily lives is the key to living and enjoying life. John 10:10 says, "The thief approaches with malicious intent, looking to steal, slaughter, and destroy; I came to give life with joy and abundance."(Voice).
Love and prayers, Cynthia
Proverbs 25:28 says, "A man without self-control is as defenseless as a city with broken-down walls."(Living Bible). You should read this scripture in multiple translations, it's very interesting. In our modern cities and societies, walls may not mean as much as they did in Bible times. But in the past, walls were a necessity. When the Children of Israel entered the Promised Land they came to Jericho. The Bible says, "Now Jericho was straitly shut up because of the children of Israel: none went out, and none came in."(Joshua 6:1, KJV). The city was fortified, protected from enemy invaders. The inhabitants created an elaborate survival system and were prepared to wait it out. Of course, God had another plan and miraculously caused their defense to crumble.
One of the trips I plan to take is a cruise down the Rhine River in Germany. These cruises travel past Medieval castles and fortresses that have withstood time. Similar to Bible times, these fortresses were built with protection in mind. If needed, thousands of people could retreat to the castle for safety, and be protected behind the walls. Even the Great Wall of China was built to fend off Northern invaders. Self Control is one of the Fruit of the Holy Spirit, and essential in the life of the Believer. Dr. Matthew L. Stevenson III preached a message today called, "Fences". He reminded us that boundaries and standards are vital. In Matthew 22:37, Jesus said, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind (intellect)."(Amplified). When we love Jesus more than any person, place or thing it sets a standard in our lives. There are things we will will not do, places we will not go, and words will will not speak when we have boundaries in our lives. These are not just religious rituals, but these decisions could mean the difference between life and death.
Our lesson today in Children's Church was entitled, "The Enemy's Counterfeit". For months, we have been teaching the children how to hear the Voice of God, and how to flow with the Holy Spirit. Why? Great question. So glad you asked! In order to train someone to differentiate between real and fake they are generally exposed to the authentic. When you know what a real $100 bill looks like and feels like, you can compare and identify the counterfeit bills. During the Western Expansion, gold was king. Individuals left the comfort of their homes in search of a fortune available in California and other states. Many were fooled by iron pyrite, or fools gold. Just as thieves and counterfeiters get more an more skilled at what they do, Believers must become more and more alert and aware. I often use this example with children...parents allow their children to play in the fenced yard. They want them to enjoy themselves, but they also want to protect them from the dangers beyond the fence. The enemy wants us to think we are missing out on something outside this boundary. What we are really missing out on is danger, pain, and possible death. God has set standards for us in the Word not to restrict our enjoyment, but to keep us safe. 1 Timothy 6:17 says, "Here’s what you say to those wealthy in regard to this age: “Don’t become high and mighty or place all your hope on a gamble for riches; instead, fix your hope on God, the One who richly provides Everything for our Enjoyment.”(Voice). Don't miss this! God wants your well, happy, and enjoying life.
We always come back to the Word. God will never contradict his Word. Knowing the Word and applying it to our daily lives is the key to living and enjoying life. John 10:10 says, "The thief approaches with malicious intent, looking to steal, slaughter, and destroy; I came to give life with joy and abundance."(Voice).
Love and prayers, Cynthia
Sunday, March 11, 2018
Grow Up
Happy Sunday!
The theme this week has been maturity. Every sermon, podcast, scripture, and word of encouragement has revolved around growing up! Then today, the sermons I enjoyed confirmed it as well.
Pastor Theresa Goode, Senior Pastor of the New Dimension Apostolic Center, in Providence, Rhode Island preached at the Jubilee Christian Church Boston Campus this morning at 7:30 am. Her sermon was entitled, "Moving From Place to Position". The highest form of the Gospel is not Salvation, the highest form of Gospel is Adoption. Only when we understand that we are no longer slaves, but sons and daughters will be able receive fully what God has prepared for us. The Prodigal Son's older brother was living right in the house with access to everything, but he did not understand his position. He did not realize that ALL that the father had was his, if he'd only receive it.(Luke 15:11-32).
Romans 8:10-17 says, "And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father". For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering".(New Living Translation).
The enemy is always trying to keep you in your place, and prevent your rise to your position. The enemy wants to keep you childish, ignorant, and impoverished. The writer of Hebrews wrote..."You have been Christians a long time now, and you ought to be teaching others, but instead you have dropped back to the place where you need someone to teach you all over again the very first principles in God’s Word. You are like babies who can drink only milk, not old enough for solid food. And when a person is still living on milk it shows he isn’t very far along in the Christian life, and doesn’t know much about the difference between right and wrong. He is still a baby Christian!"(Hebrews 5:12, Living Bible).
How can we grow up? Great question! I'm so glad you asked! 2 Peter 3:17-18 says, "Dear friends, you already know about this. So be careful. Don’t let these evil people lead you away by the wrong they do. Be careful that you do not fall from your strong faith. But GROW in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Glory be to him, now and forever! Amen."(Easy-to-Read Version). The more we know about our Lord and the way he did things, and the more we implement these principles in our lives, the more we will mature. It's up to us to make the decision.
What was the original sin? We often zero in on Adam and Eve, but even before their fall, Satan attempted to exalt himself above God. He felt that he was smarter, and knew better what should be done than God. He's still tempting us to do exactly what he did. The Word says, "Let us not neglect our church meetings, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near"(Hebrews 10:25, Living Bible). But we can easily find reasons or excuses not to attend. The Word says, "Servants, do what you’re told by your earthly masters. And don’t just do the minimum that will get you by. Do your best. Work from the heart for your real Master, for GOD, confident that you’ll get paid in full when you come into your inheritance. Keep in mind always that the ultimate Master you’re serving is Christ. The sullen servant who does shoddy work will be held responsible. Being a follower of Jesus doesn’t cover up bad work."(Colossians 3:22-13, Message). How often do we forget who we are really working for? I'm guilty too, but I'm changing and working on me. The Word says, "Here then is my charge: First, supplications, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings should be made on behalf of all men: for kings and rulers in positions of responsibility, so that our common life may be lived in peace and quiet, with a proper sense of God and of our responsibility to him for what we do with our lives."(1 Timothy 2:1-2, Phillips). But when was the last time you prayed for our National, Regional, and Local officials? When was the last time your prayed for your manager or supervisor? God's Word is Truth. Even though we get to choose, we must strive to choose wisely. Jesus said, "If anyone listening to My teachings chooses to ignore them, so be it: I have come to liberate the world, not to judge it. HOWEVER, those who reject Me and My teachings will be judged: in the last day, My words will be their judge because I am not speaking of My own volition and from My own authority. The Father who sent Me has commanded Me what to say and speak. I know His command is eternal life, so every word I utter originates in Him."(John 12:47-50, Voice).
Love and prayers, Cynthia
The theme this week has been maturity. Every sermon, podcast, scripture, and word of encouragement has revolved around growing up! Then today, the sermons I enjoyed confirmed it as well.
Pastor Theresa Goode, Senior Pastor of the New Dimension Apostolic Center, in Providence, Rhode Island preached at the Jubilee Christian Church Boston Campus this morning at 7:30 am. Her sermon was entitled, "Moving From Place to Position". The highest form of the Gospel is not Salvation, the highest form of Gospel is Adoption. Only when we understand that we are no longer slaves, but sons and daughters will be able receive fully what God has prepared for us. The Prodigal Son's older brother was living right in the house with access to everything, but he did not understand his position. He did not realize that ALL that the father had was his, if he'd only receive it.(Luke 15:11-32).
Romans 8:10-17 says, "And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God’s Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, “Abba, Father". For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God’s children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God’s glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering".(New Living Translation).
The enemy is always trying to keep you in your place, and prevent your rise to your position. The enemy wants to keep you childish, ignorant, and impoverished. The writer of Hebrews wrote..."You have been Christians a long time now, and you ought to be teaching others, but instead you have dropped back to the place where you need someone to teach you all over again the very first principles in God’s Word. You are like babies who can drink only milk, not old enough for solid food. And when a person is still living on milk it shows he isn’t very far along in the Christian life, and doesn’t know much about the difference between right and wrong. He is still a baby Christian!"(Hebrews 5:12, Living Bible).
How can we grow up? Great question! I'm so glad you asked! 2 Peter 3:17-18 says, "Dear friends, you already know about this. So be careful. Don’t let these evil people lead you away by the wrong they do. Be careful that you do not fall from your strong faith. But GROW in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Glory be to him, now and forever! Amen."(Easy-to-Read Version). The more we know about our Lord and the way he did things, and the more we implement these principles in our lives, the more we will mature. It's up to us to make the decision.
What was the original sin? We often zero in on Adam and Eve, but even before their fall, Satan attempted to exalt himself above God. He felt that he was smarter, and knew better what should be done than God. He's still tempting us to do exactly what he did. The Word says, "Let us not neglect our church meetings, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near"(Hebrews 10:25, Living Bible). But we can easily find reasons or excuses not to attend. The Word says, "Servants, do what you’re told by your earthly masters. And don’t just do the minimum that will get you by. Do your best. Work from the heart for your real Master, for GOD, confident that you’ll get paid in full when you come into your inheritance. Keep in mind always that the ultimate Master you’re serving is Christ. The sullen servant who does shoddy work will be held responsible. Being a follower of Jesus doesn’t cover up bad work."(Colossians 3:22-13, Message). How often do we forget who we are really working for? I'm guilty too, but I'm changing and working on me. The Word says, "Here then is my charge: First, supplications, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings should be made on behalf of all men: for kings and rulers in positions of responsibility, so that our common life may be lived in peace and quiet, with a proper sense of God and of our responsibility to him for what we do with our lives."(1 Timothy 2:1-2, Phillips). But when was the last time you prayed for our National, Regional, and Local officials? When was the last time your prayed for your manager or supervisor? God's Word is Truth. Even though we get to choose, we must strive to choose wisely. Jesus said, "If anyone listening to My teachings chooses to ignore them, so be it: I have come to liberate the world, not to judge it. HOWEVER, those who reject Me and My teachings will be judged: in the last day, My words will be their judge because I am not speaking of My own volition and from My own authority. The Father who sent Me has commanded Me what to say and speak. I know His command is eternal life, so every word I utter originates in Him."(John 12:47-50, Voice).
Love and prayers, Cynthia
Sunday, March 4, 2018
Lifelong Student
Happy Sunday!
God is the best teacher you will ever have. I'm confident that even if we failed to see the lesson, there are lessons in every experience we have. My son, Terrence A. Pruitt always says, "God does not waste instructional minutes". What did you learn this week? I question my students after each lesson to determine if they really got it and if they can apply it to their daily lives.
So, what did you learn this week? I'll give you a moment to think. While you are thinking, I will tell you what I learned.
I learned that at any level of spiritual maturity it's still possible to overlook all the good things and be overwhelmed with the bad. That's the trick of the enemy! Don't think you have enough money? Do you remember having less? I do. I remember one year making $13,000.00. Yes, it was years ago, but I was providing for my four children and myself. Things are extremely different now. Tired of your job, and dreaming of finding another? Well, I had a flashback this week of some of the jobs I've had. Office Cleaner, Domestic, Forklift Operator, Unit Secretary, Mail Clerk, and Shipping, Packaging, and Order Filler for a Chemical Company just to name a few. Not to mention positions held in church settings, Announcement Clerk, Sunday School Teacher, Choir Member, Usher, and all sorts of cleaning and cooking positions. I remember many times peeling 20 lb bags of potatoes to make potato salad for banquets or repasts. Thank God, today, I can and would just buy a food item for my contribution. Don't let the enemy blind you to all that is good! Sarah Jakes Roberts said, "May you never allow what is still left to do blind you from what you've already accomplished".
I learned that God is always speaking. He wants to have an intimate relationship with us. May I see your phone? If I scroll through your text messages and call logs I will be able to determine who the most important people are in your life. Sure, there are people I love that I communicate with using other methods. You know I love to send cards, but I put time into these relationships. I shared Job 23:10 with my Best Friend, Gina this week. Only to have her respond that it was the very scripture her pastor used in Bible Study! It says, "But He knows the way that I take [He has concern for it, appreciates, and pays attention to it]. When He has tried me, I shall come forth as refined gold [pure and luminous]."(Amplified). God is always speaking, but are we listening?
I learned that Mercy is the best way. Luke 6:36 says, "Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful."(KJV). People are crazy! Don't laugh, I'm serious! If you don't want to act as crazy as they do, you will have to have Mercy. Generally, there is a reason behind their crazy. Most times we have such a low tolerance for crazy, that we don't take the time to find out what makes people do what they do. Mercy is defined as "compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm". We have the power to harm, mistreat, and judge others with our words and deeds. When we slow down, and extend compassion and forgiveness we are saving ourselves a lot of heartache and giving God time to work on us, and them. Matthew 5:43-48 says, "“You’re familiar with the old written law, ‘Love your friend,’ and its unwritten companion, ‘Hate your enemy.’ I’m challenging that. I’m telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say ‘hello’ to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that".
“In a word, what I’m saying is, Grow up. You’re kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you.”(Message).
I'd still like to know what you learned this week!
Love and prayers, Cynthia
God is the best teacher you will ever have. I'm confident that even if we failed to see the lesson, there are lessons in every experience we have. My son, Terrence A. Pruitt always says, "God does not waste instructional minutes". What did you learn this week? I question my students after each lesson to determine if they really got it and if they can apply it to their daily lives.
So, what did you learn this week? I'll give you a moment to think. While you are thinking, I will tell you what I learned.
I learned that at any level of spiritual maturity it's still possible to overlook all the good things and be overwhelmed with the bad. That's the trick of the enemy! Don't think you have enough money? Do you remember having less? I do. I remember one year making $13,000.00. Yes, it was years ago, but I was providing for my four children and myself. Things are extremely different now. Tired of your job, and dreaming of finding another? Well, I had a flashback this week of some of the jobs I've had. Office Cleaner, Domestic, Forklift Operator, Unit Secretary, Mail Clerk, and Shipping, Packaging, and Order Filler for a Chemical Company just to name a few. Not to mention positions held in church settings, Announcement Clerk, Sunday School Teacher, Choir Member, Usher, and all sorts of cleaning and cooking positions. I remember many times peeling 20 lb bags of potatoes to make potato salad for banquets or repasts. Thank God, today, I can and would just buy a food item for my contribution. Don't let the enemy blind you to all that is good! Sarah Jakes Roberts said, "May you never allow what is still left to do blind you from what you've already accomplished".
I learned that God is always speaking. He wants to have an intimate relationship with us. May I see your phone? If I scroll through your text messages and call logs I will be able to determine who the most important people are in your life. Sure, there are people I love that I communicate with using other methods. You know I love to send cards, but I put time into these relationships. I shared Job 23:10 with my Best Friend, Gina this week. Only to have her respond that it was the very scripture her pastor used in Bible Study! It says, "But He knows the way that I take [He has concern for it, appreciates, and pays attention to it]. When He has tried me, I shall come forth as refined gold [pure and luminous]."(Amplified). God is always speaking, but are we listening?
I learned that Mercy is the best way. Luke 6:36 says, "Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful."(KJV). People are crazy! Don't laugh, I'm serious! If you don't want to act as crazy as they do, you will have to have Mercy. Generally, there is a reason behind their crazy. Most times we have such a low tolerance for crazy, that we don't take the time to find out what makes people do what they do. Mercy is defined as "compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm". We have the power to harm, mistreat, and judge others with our words and deeds. When we slow down, and extend compassion and forgiveness we are saving ourselves a lot of heartache and giving God time to work on us, and them. Matthew 5:43-48 says, "“You’re familiar with the old written law, ‘Love your friend,’ and its unwritten companion, ‘Hate your enemy.’ I’m challenging that. I’m telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, your God-created selves. This is what God does. He gives his best—the sun to warm and the rain to nourish—to everyone, regardless: the good and bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say ‘hello’ to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that".
“In a word, what I’m saying is, Grow up. You’re kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you.”(Message).
I'd still like to know what you learned this week!
Love and prayers, Cynthia
Sunday, February 25, 2018
Enemies
Happy Sunday!
The only people on earth that do not have enemies are people that aren't doing enough! Enemies come with advancement, progress, and distinction. If your enemy has not revealed himself to you, it means you are not advancing, progressing, or being as different as you should be. - Dr. Matthew L. Stevenson III
When we become Christians, many times we falsely believe that everything will be perfect and there will be no struggles. This is a lie! When we accept the Lord Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior we simultaneously denounce the Devil and the old way of life. As we grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord we become more and more like Him. Use your Bible App and search the word enemy. BibleGateway using the KJV version produced 109 results for the word enemy. Why would the Holy Spirit include so many references about enemies? So glad you asked.
Dr. Matthew L. Stevenson III continued his series, "Rated R", with a teaching on "The Necessity of an Enemy". Throughout the Bible, God instructed His people on how to deal with their enemies. An enemy is defined as anyone that sets themselves as an opponent to your progress. Don't miss this! In Psalm 3:1, David said..."O Lord, so many are against me. So many seek to harm me. I have so many enemies."(Living Bible). In Psalm 23:5 he also says, "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over."(KJV). God did not move the psalmist away from his enemies. He blessed them right in front of his enemies, This is exactly what he intends to do for you!
Enemies assist with our developmental process. Our friends love us, affirm us, and confirm us. But our enemies create an environment for us to see the underdeveloped areas of our life and character. Our enemies serve as catalysts to cause reactions in us. The appearance of an enemy is an opportunity to mature. When our enemies insult and accuse us the proper response should be introspection. Did what they say hurt? Why did it hurt? Was there any truth in it? Then make the necessary changes to level up! You will never be insulted by anyone doing more than you! Psalm 25:19-21 says, "Consider mine enemies; for they are many; and they hate me with cruel hatred. O keep my soul, and deliver me: let me not be ashamed; for I put my trust in thee. Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee."(KJV). Don't miss this! Our integrity and uprightness will preserve us from every enemy attack!
Jesus even instructed us about enemies, and how to respond to them..."You have been taught to love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you this: love your enemies. Pray for those who torment you and persecute you."(Matthew 5:43-44, Voice). Jesus went further to say, "Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake."(KJV). Don't miss the word "falsely" in this scripture. Make sure what they are saying is not true! 1 Peter 3:16 says, "But answer them in a gentle way with respect. Keep your conscience clear. Then people will see the good way you live as followers of Christ, and those who say bad things about you will be ashamed of what they said."(Easy-to-Read Version).
Today, Dr. Bill Winston continued his series, Christ in You, with the subtitle, "The Greater Works". Many times during this series, he has reminded us that God does not wish to see anyone perish(2 Peter 3;9). Ezekiel 33:11 says, "Tell them, “As I live,” says the Eternal Lord, “I don’t enjoy watching the wicked die; I want the wicked to stop doing what they’re doing and live! Repent! Turn from your wicked ways. Why would you choose to die instead of live, people of Israel?”(Voice). Don't miss this! God doesn't hate your enemy! He loves them, and he sent his son to die for them too! BUT the Day of Vengeance has come...God intends for us to live far above the world and its limitations. Anything or anyone standing in the way of our progress and prosperity is in grave danger. You know the story of Daniel. Daniel 6:3 says, "Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an Excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm."(KJV). Then his enemies began to search for a way to accuse him of wrong doing. Of course, they found no reason to accuse him but decided to use his prayer life against him. They encouraged the King to establish a law that no one could pray to anyone but the king for a period of time. Daniel 6:10 says, "But though Daniel knew about it, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs bedroom, with its windows open toward Jerusalem, and prayed three times a day, just as he always had, giving thanks to his God."(Living Bible). He was arrested and thrown in the lion's den. You know that God caused the lions mouths to be shut and Daniel survived. But do you know what happened to his enemies and accusers? Daniel 6:24 says, "Then the king issued a command to bring the men who had accused Daniel and throw them into the den along with their children and wives, and the lions leaped upon them and tore them apart before they even hit the bottom of the den."(Living Bible). OUCH!
Shift your thinking! Trust that the Word of God is True, and Truth! See your enemies in a positive light. See them as an opportunity to be better! You have no successful enemies! Isaiah 54:17 says, "No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord."(KJV).
Love and prayers, Cynthia
The only people on earth that do not have enemies are people that aren't doing enough! Enemies come with advancement, progress, and distinction. If your enemy has not revealed himself to you, it means you are not advancing, progressing, or being as different as you should be. - Dr. Matthew L. Stevenson III
When we become Christians, many times we falsely believe that everything will be perfect and there will be no struggles. This is a lie! When we accept the Lord Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior we simultaneously denounce the Devil and the old way of life. As we grow in grace and the knowledge of our Lord we become more and more like Him. Use your Bible App and search the word enemy. BibleGateway using the KJV version produced 109 results for the word enemy. Why would the Holy Spirit include so many references about enemies? So glad you asked.
Dr. Matthew L. Stevenson III continued his series, "Rated R", with a teaching on "The Necessity of an Enemy". Throughout the Bible, God instructed His people on how to deal with their enemies. An enemy is defined as anyone that sets themselves as an opponent to your progress. Don't miss this! In Psalm 3:1, David said..."O Lord, so many are against me. So many seek to harm me. I have so many enemies."(Living Bible). In Psalm 23:5 he also says, "Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over."(KJV). God did not move the psalmist away from his enemies. He blessed them right in front of his enemies, This is exactly what he intends to do for you!
Enemies assist with our developmental process. Our friends love us, affirm us, and confirm us. But our enemies create an environment for us to see the underdeveloped areas of our life and character. Our enemies serve as catalysts to cause reactions in us. The appearance of an enemy is an opportunity to mature. When our enemies insult and accuse us the proper response should be introspection. Did what they say hurt? Why did it hurt? Was there any truth in it? Then make the necessary changes to level up! You will never be insulted by anyone doing more than you! Psalm 25:19-21 says, "Consider mine enemies; for they are many; and they hate me with cruel hatred. O keep my soul, and deliver me: let me not be ashamed; for I put my trust in thee. Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee."(KJV). Don't miss this! Our integrity and uprightness will preserve us from every enemy attack!
Jesus even instructed us about enemies, and how to respond to them..."You have been taught to love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you this: love your enemies. Pray for those who torment you and persecute you."(Matthew 5:43-44, Voice). Jesus went further to say, "Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake."(KJV). Don't miss the word "falsely" in this scripture. Make sure what they are saying is not true! 1 Peter 3:16 says, "But answer them in a gentle way with respect. Keep your conscience clear. Then people will see the good way you live as followers of Christ, and those who say bad things about you will be ashamed of what they said."(Easy-to-Read Version).
Today, Dr. Bill Winston continued his series, Christ in You, with the subtitle, "The Greater Works". Many times during this series, he has reminded us that God does not wish to see anyone perish(2 Peter 3;9). Ezekiel 33:11 says, "Tell them, “As I live,” says the Eternal Lord, “I don’t enjoy watching the wicked die; I want the wicked to stop doing what they’re doing and live! Repent! Turn from your wicked ways. Why would you choose to die instead of live, people of Israel?”(Voice). Don't miss this! God doesn't hate your enemy! He loves them, and he sent his son to die for them too! BUT the Day of Vengeance has come...God intends for us to live far above the world and its limitations. Anything or anyone standing in the way of our progress and prosperity is in grave danger. You know the story of Daniel. Daniel 6:3 says, "Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an Excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm."(KJV). Then his enemies began to search for a way to accuse him of wrong doing. Of course, they found no reason to accuse him but decided to use his prayer life against him. They encouraged the King to establish a law that no one could pray to anyone but the king for a period of time. Daniel 6:10 says, "But though Daniel knew about it, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs bedroom, with its windows open toward Jerusalem, and prayed three times a day, just as he always had, giving thanks to his God."(Living Bible). He was arrested and thrown in the lion's den. You know that God caused the lions mouths to be shut and Daniel survived. But do you know what happened to his enemies and accusers? Daniel 6:24 says, "Then the king issued a command to bring the men who had accused Daniel and throw them into the den along with their children and wives, and the lions leaped upon them and tore them apart before they even hit the bottom of the den."(Living Bible). OUCH!
Shift your thinking! Trust that the Word of God is True, and Truth! See your enemies in a positive light. See them as an opportunity to be better! You have no successful enemies! Isaiah 54:17 says, "No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord."(KJV).
Love and prayers, Cynthia
Sunday, February 18, 2018
Perfect Love
Happy Sunday!
God uses relationships and interactions with other people to grow us in love. But we generally choose to love only those that love us back. Even Jesus said, it's easy to love people who are easy to love. Matthew 5:46 says, "If you love only those who love you, what good is that? Even scoundrels do that much."(Living Bible). But if we only love the lovable, who will love the rest?
I served in Children's Church today. As you know, I will try to listen to Dr. Matthew L. Stevenson III before I go to my church, unless I'm rested enough to go to our 9 am service and serve at 11:15 am as well. Dr. Stevenson is preaching a series called, "Rated R" about relationships. It has been amazing and always on point. Today's message was "The Spirit of Fear". He said, "You will never be able to devote yourself to any relationship as long as you have fear". Let that sink in.
Why haven't you introduced yourself to the neighbor in 3B? Are you afraid that they will be needy and always want to borrow a cup of sugar, or your snow shovel? Why do you push the down button for the elevator when you see that one person pushed up? Are you afraid to be seen talking with them? Are you afraid of what people may think? Why don't you go to the movies, bowling, or roller skating? Why don't you travel? You really enjoy it, but what will people think or say about you being somewhere by yourself?
Fear distorts things. There is no fear in love. Perfect or mature love casts out or dispels fear. Don't miss this. When our love is mature we will be Fearless! 1 John 4:17-18 says, "Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love."(KJV).
Phobos is the Greek word for Fear. We get words like phobia from this root word. It means to shriek back, to retreat, to run, or to cower. 2 Timothy 1:7 says, "For God hath NOT given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."(KJV). Stop accepting fear from the Devil! He wants access to you and your life. He knows that when you operate in fear your faith is unproductive. Fear paints a deceptive picture of your opponent and seeks to make you see yourself incorrectly. Our relationships and their success are determine by our fear or lack thereof. Dr. Stevenson said, "Many of us are only as broke as our relationships!" Don't miss this! As I told my daughter today, "You are going to be with people forever". Even in Heaven, there are crowds too big to number. Don't think you will spend all your time cooped up in your mansion! You will be in worship services!
Have you ever heard of Six Degrees of Separation? It's defined as "the theory that any person on the planet can be connected to any other person on the planet through a chain of acquaintances that has no more than five intermediaries". Whether you believe this or not, your relationships matter! Being in the right place, at the right time, with the right information, and the right understanding requires that you be ready for the right relationships. Everybody will not be your friend, but don't be afraid to explore friendships. Proverbs 8:24 says, "A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother."(KJV). The Message Translation says, "Friends come and friends go, but a true friend sticks by you like family".
One of my students made a comment about love that says a lot about how our culture views it. She was under the impression that love was always perfect, and never involved any trouble or challenges. As a class we read 1 Corinthians 13 together. I recommend you read it as well, and perhaps in another translation. It describes what real love is like. 1 John 4 tells us that God loved us first without any guarantee we would love him back. This is our example. We have to grow to the place where we can love first not knowing if this love, compassion, concern, or benevolence will ever be given in return. We can't let fear of being hurt, mistreated, or misunderstood keep us from obeying God's command. You did realize that loving one another is a command, didn't you?
Love and prayers, Cynthia
God uses relationships and interactions with other people to grow us in love. But we generally choose to love only those that love us back. Even Jesus said, it's easy to love people who are easy to love. Matthew 5:46 says, "If you love only those who love you, what good is that? Even scoundrels do that much."(Living Bible). But if we only love the lovable, who will love the rest?
I served in Children's Church today. As you know, I will try to listen to Dr. Matthew L. Stevenson III before I go to my church, unless I'm rested enough to go to our 9 am service and serve at 11:15 am as well. Dr. Stevenson is preaching a series called, "Rated R" about relationships. It has been amazing and always on point. Today's message was "The Spirit of Fear". He said, "You will never be able to devote yourself to any relationship as long as you have fear". Let that sink in.
Why haven't you introduced yourself to the neighbor in 3B? Are you afraid that they will be needy and always want to borrow a cup of sugar, or your snow shovel? Why do you push the down button for the elevator when you see that one person pushed up? Are you afraid to be seen talking with them? Are you afraid of what people may think? Why don't you go to the movies, bowling, or roller skating? Why don't you travel? You really enjoy it, but what will people think or say about you being somewhere by yourself?
Fear distorts things. There is no fear in love. Perfect or mature love casts out or dispels fear. Don't miss this. When our love is mature we will be Fearless! 1 John 4:17-18 says, "Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love."(KJV).
Phobos is the Greek word for Fear. We get words like phobia from this root word. It means to shriek back, to retreat, to run, or to cower. 2 Timothy 1:7 says, "For God hath NOT given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."(KJV). Stop accepting fear from the Devil! He wants access to you and your life. He knows that when you operate in fear your faith is unproductive. Fear paints a deceptive picture of your opponent and seeks to make you see yourself incorrectly. Our relationships and their success are determine by our fear or lack thereof. Dr. Stevenson said, "Many of us are only as broke as our relationships!" Don't miss this! As I told my daughter today, "You are going to be with people forever". Even in Heaven, there are crowds too big to number. Don't think you will spend all your time cooped up in your mansion! You will be in worship services!
Have you ever heard of Six Degrees of Separation? It's defined as "the theory that any person on the planet can be connected to any other person on the planet through a chain of acquaintances that has no more than five intermediaries". Whether you believe this or not, your relationships matter! Being in the right place, at the right time, with the right information, and the right understanding requires that you be ready for the right relationships. Everybody will not be your friend, but don't be afraid to explore friendships. Proverbs 8:24 says, "A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother."(KJV). The Message Translation says, "Friends come and friends go, but a true friend sticks by you like family".
One of my students made a comment about love that says a lot about how our culture views it. She was under the impression that love was always perfect, and never involved any trouble or challenges. As a class we read 1 Corinthians 13 together. I recommend you read it as well, and perhaps in another translation. It describes what real love is like. 1 John 4 tells us that God loved us first without any guarantee we would love him back. This is our example. We have to grow to the place where we can love first not knowing if this love, compassion, concern, or benevolence will ever be given in return. We can't let fear of being hurt, mistreated, or misunderstood keep us from obeying God's command. You did realize that loving one another is a command, didn't you?
Love and prayers, Cynthia
Sunday, February 11, 2018
Trust Issues...
Happy Sunday!
Romans 10:11 says, "Scripture reassures us, “No one who trusts God like this—heart and soul—will ever regret it.”(Message).
If you can trust God for everything, then you can trust Him for anything. The Bible commands us to, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding."(Proverbs 3:5, KJV). Surprisingly, the Word does not command us to trust in other people. Sure, we have to have a certain degree of trust to live in society with other humans. We trust that the driver in the other lane is alert, and competent. We trust that the server has not sneezed over our filet mignon. We trust that those we love truly love us in return. Jeremiah 17:5 give us more insight on trust, "The Lord says: Cursed is the man who puts his trust in mortal man and turns his heart away from God."(Living Bible). So it's more about not replacing our trust in a flawless God, with a a fleeting trust in flawed mankind.
Dr. Bill Winston continued the series, "Christ in You", with the subtitle, "Greater Works". We have been commissioned to live this life as God would have us to. We are each unique and gifted. We each have something special to offer the world. I've said it before, and I will say it again...you have something that someone in the world can't live without. Ray Boltz sang a song entitled, "Thank You for Giving to the Lord". Google it. It may help you appreciate that the simplest act of love and kindness can change the lives of others. Think about the people that have passed right by a serial killer, an suicidal person, or a family on the verge of destruction. A word, a prayer, or an understanding conversation could have made all the difference. The world has picked up on this and called it, "Random Acts of Kindness", but God has been encouraging us to do it all along. Ecclesiastes 11:1 says, "Do good wherever you go. After a while, the good you do will come back to you."(Easy-to-Read Version).
Dr. Winston gave us "Four Rules of Engagement" that we must know and put into practice if we are to do the Greater Works in these last and evil days.
1) Accept nothing less than what God has said in his Word.
2) Your experience is no longer the best teacher.
3) Don't settle for any unanswered prayer.
4) You can obey God's Word without full mental understanding.
Romans 10:17 says, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."(KJV). The Word is the Key. Get the Word, get understanding, and trust God because he is faithful and will never allow you to regret your decision to trust Him!
Love and prayers, Cynthia
Romans 10:11 says, "Scripture reassures us, “No one who trusts God like this—heart and soul—will ever regret it.”(Message).
If you can trust God for everything, then you can trust Him for anything. The Bible commands us to, "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding."(Proverbs 3:5, KJV). Surprisingly, the Word does not command us to trust in other people. Sure, we have to have a certain degree of trust to live in society with other humans. We trust that the driver in the other lane is alert, and competent. We trust that the server has not sneezed over our filet mignon. We trust that those we love truly love us in return. Jeremiah 17:5 give us more insight on trust, "The Lord says: Cursed is the man who puts his trust in mortal man and turns his heart away from God."(Living Bible). So it's more about not replacing our trust in a flawless God, with a a fleeting trust in flawed mankind.
Dr. Bill Winston continued the series, "Christ in You", with the subtitle, "Greater Works". We have been commissioned to live this life as God would have us to. We are each unique and gifted. We each have something special to offer the world. I've said it before, and I will say it again...you have something that someone in the world can't live without. Ray Boltz sang a song entitled, "Thank You for Giving to the Lord". Google it. It may help you appreciate that the simplest act of love and kindness can change the lives of others. Think about the people that have passed right by a serial killer, an suicidal person, or a family on the verge of destruction. A word, a prayer, or an understanding conversation could have made all the difference. The world has picked up on this and called it, "Random Acts of Kindness", but God has been encouraging us to do it all along. Ecclesiastes 11:1 says, "Do good wherever you go. After a while, the good you do will come back to you."(Easy-to-Read Version).
Dr. Winston gave us "Four Rules of Engagement" that we must know and put into practice if we are to do the Greater Works in these last and evil days.
1) Accept nothing less than what God has said in his Word.
2) Your experience is no longer the best teacher.
3) Don't settle for any unanswered prayer.
4) You can obey God's Word without full mental understanding.
Romans 10:17 says, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God."(KJV). The Word is the Key. Get the Word, get understanding, and trust God because he is faithful and will never allow you to regret your decision to trust Him!
Love and prayers, Cynthia
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