"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT YOUR MINISTRY TO THE LORD"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT YOUR MINISTRY TO THE LORD"

2nd Chronicles 29:11 “My sons, do not be negligent now, for the LORD has chosen you to stand before Him, to serve Him, and that you should minister to Him and burn incense.”

Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions, and a prayer:

Hezekiah had just become king. And the first thing he did was to repair the temple. He did all that was needful to get it up and running so the people could worship the Lord. The above verse was an exhortation from the king to the workers who were about to engage in the clean up work. It's a verse that hold much instruction and application for us today in our ministry to the Lord.

1. We ( who have been born again ) are in fact the sons of God.
2nd Chronicles 29:11 “My sons, do not be negligent now, for the LORD has chosen you to stand before Him, to serve Him, and that you should minister to Him and burn incense.”

King Hezekiah was speaking to the children of Israel. The people of God. He called them "my sons" We who have come to faith in Jesus Christ are in fact the sons of God also. We have been born again, and have been adopted into the family of God.
At one time we were without God, but now through His mercy and grace that has all changed. We are the children of God.

2. We are also called to not be negligent, but rather diligent in our ministry to the Lord.
2nd Chronicles 29:11 “My sons, do not be negligent now, for the LORD has chosen you to stand before Him, to serve Him, and that you should minister to Him and burn incense.”

This was a needed exhortation. "do not be negligent now" Or do not delay, do not procrastinate, but be diligent to do what God has put before you. They had a work to do that centered directly on God. We are in the same position. We are called to look unto Jesus and to serve Him with all of our hearts. And, it's important that we are faithful in our service to Him, and not to be delay, or be unfaithful, or neglectful, but rather diligently doing whatever it is that He has called us to do,

3. We have been chosen by God to be His children and to stand before Him.
2nd Chronicles 29:11 “My sons, do not be negligent now, for the LORD has chosen you to stand before Him, to serve Him, and that you should minister to Him and burn incense.”

The King told the people how God had chosen them. The Bible tells us the same thing.
We have been chosen by God to be His children.
He called us, and He saved us, and we are now His.
We are the children of God.
Here's what Jesus said.

Joh 15:16* “You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you.

4. We are also called to serve Him, and to minister to Him.
2nd Chronicles 29:11 “My sons, do not be negligent now, for the LORD has chosen you to stand before Him, to serve Him, and that you should minister to Him and burn incense.”

So, to sum it all up the King was exhorting the people to busy about the ministry that God had set before them to do.
We are in the same position. God has placed each of us right where He wants us. And He has given each of us at least one spiritual gift. He wants us to use our spiritual gifts. We are exhorted in the NT to "redeem the time" or to make the most of the time we have.

There is so much work to be done in the kingdom of Jesus Christ. God will use you if you make yourself available to Him,
He will work in you, and He will work through you. He will use your life to minister to other people, just as He has used other peoples lives to minister to you.

Some questions:

1. What gifts do you think the Lord has given to you?

2. Have you put those gifts to work yet in serving the Lord?

3. Do you need help from God in figuring out what He wants you to do?

4. Do you know that God is more anxious than you are for you to be busy about His work?

5. God has a plan and it included using your life and your gifts to bring glory to His name.

A prayer:

Father thank You for Your wondrous grace and mercy towards us. And thank You for these stories in the Bible that serve as examples to motivate us in our relationship with You. We need that motivation. We want to please You. You deserve to be honored, served and glorified in and through our lives. In Jesus name, amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT TWO THINGS THAT WILL FOLLOW YOU"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT TWO THINGS THAT WILL FOLLOW YOU"

Psalm 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.

Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions, and a prayer:

This is perhaps one of the most well known Psalms in all of the world. Psalm 23. The Lord is my shepherd etc.
Written by King David who had himself been a shepherd as a young boy. But now writing as the king he saw the Lord as his shepherd, and himself as one of the Lord's sheep. In this particular verse, there are two things that he says will follow him, and then closes this off by telling us about his eternal future as one of God's children.

1. What's said here to follow David, is also true of every believer in Jesus Christ.
Psalm 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.

You will notice the verse starts with the word "surely" designed to affirm beyond any doubt the truthfulness of what is about to be said. This is true is the idea. Thus this is true for you and I who also follow and know the Lord, we can count on these things in our lives.

2. Here are the two things that followed David, and also follow us.
Psalm 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.

Goodness and mercy. What a blessing. David was declaring that each and ever day, in fact all the days of his life, that goodness and mercy would follow him.

This is true for you and I also. As we look back behind us we see these two things, the goodness and the mercy of the Lord.

Goodness comes from a word meaning beneficial, blessing.
Mercy is also translated "God's unfailing love"

Today God is being good to us, today God is loving us. And tomorrow we can look back on today, and see that these two blessing were there, and that's the way it will be all through our lives.

3. We can look forward also to dwelling in God's house forever.
Psalm 23:6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.

David was declaring that there were these two blessings in his life day by day, and that his future residence would be in the house of the LORD forever.

The same can be said of us. Blessings from God each and every day, and the confidence of being in heaven with God, in the city of God forever, and forever.

Some questions:

1. Isn't it a blessing to pause a little and consider the wonderful truths and blessing from God in our lives?

2. Do you know that because God said it, you can bank on it being true?

3. Do you know that these blessings are following you day by day?

4. Do you know that as a christian you will dwell with God in His house forever and ever?

5. Will you take a moment right now to bow your heart before Him, and tell Him thank you, and that you love Him?

A prayer:

Father, even though we have heard this Ps over and over, it may be new for some. And even though it may be familiar to us, the truth of it is a powerful blessing in our lives today. You are behind us, You are with us, and we will be with You forever.
Thank You for sending Jesus Christ to die for our sins. Thank You for Your goodness that led us to repent. Thank You for giving us faith to believe, and thank You for saving us when we did believe in Jesus and receive Him. And finally, thank You Lord for the glorious eternal future we have waiting for us. We rejoice in hope of the glory of God. In Jesus name, amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT KNOWING THE WILL OF GOD"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT KNOWING THE WILL OF GOD"

Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.
Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:

This 12th Chapter of Romans begins the practical application of the Epistle. The first 11 chapters explained how God saves men, and from here on till the end, it about how saved men are to live. The very first issue Paul explains about living the Christian life, is how we are to know the will of God. Or to put it another way, it's how we can experience God's will in our lives.

1. God gives us the opportunity to know His will.
Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God,
Here's how it reads in the NLT. Rom 12:1a And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God.

This is not a command, but a plea, and an invitation. God invites you to give yourself to Him. It's been said, that we can have as much of God as we want. And, God is willing to give as much of Himself to us as we want.
But, we must make ourselves available to Him, that is step number one.

2. God will receive you as you you place yourself at His disposal.
Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God,

God will accept you as you place yourself at His disposal. He saved You for a reason. And if you will present your body to God, He will welcome you, and He will begin working in your life to show you His will. He will accept you as you give yourself to Him.

3. God has been so merciful to you, that you giving yourself to Him is your reasonable service.
Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.

You can see at the end of this verse, that giving yourself to God is your reasonable service. In light of all that He has done for you in saving you and justifying you by His grace, it's the only logical and reasonable thing to do. Give yourself to God.
When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask? No.

4. God wants you to not be conformed to this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of your mind.
Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

The first part of this verse explains what we should not do. We should not allow the world to conform us. It will if we are not careful. This is why the Lord states it so clearly. Do not be conformed to this world. Don't live the way the world lives.
Or don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world,

5. God promises that you will experience His will if you follow the teaching in these 2 verses.
Romans 12:2 And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Here's how this verse reads in the NLT Rom 12:2 Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is.

So along with not copying the ways of the world, we are to let God transform and change us. He brings about this change by changing the way we think and He does that through His Word.

If we follow this instruction we will find ourselves personally experiencing the will of God for our lives. And how pleased God will be to reveal His will to you.

Some questions:

1. Are you not thankful for God's having saved you?

2. Isn't it wonderful that He has been so merciful to you?

3. And, isn't it a blessing to know that you can give yourself to Him and experience His will for your life?

4. Please take a few moments to read the verses and let them sink in, and soak your heart and your mind in them.

5. Do you want to know God's will?

6. Do you believe God will reveal it to you if you follow His instructions?

A prayer:

Father these two verses are so pivotal for the christian. They take us from being saved to growing into the knowledge of Your will. Thank You that You have a will for us, and that it's Your good pleasure to make that will known to us. Lord please help us understand that to know Your will we must follow Your guidance, and come to You on Your terms. Thank You for Your grace , Your mercy, and Your love. In Jesus name, amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT OUR GREAT GOD"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT OUR GREAT GOD"

Romans 11:36 For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen.

Some explanatory thought, application, questions, and a prayer:

Paul is concluding his teaching about the the Grace of God in and through Jesus Christ, and the people of Israel.
He spent three chapters ( 9-11 ) dealing with this subject. And, what a glorious ending we have here in verse 36. It's filled with many truths about our God, and what that means to us as His children.

1. Everything comes from our God.
Romans 11:36 For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen.

Our God is the source of all things. As the verse states "of Him and through Him and to Him are all things"
He is above all, He is before all. How great is our God.

2. Everything exists by His power.
Romans 11:36 For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen.

God is all powerful. That's how the Bible describes Him. We use the word "Omnipotent" when saying that God is all powerful.
And all powerful He is. So powerful that everything that exists, exists because of His power.
He is responsible for all things that exists.

3. Everything is intended for His glory.
Romans 11:36 For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen.

Not only have all things come from Him, and exist because of His great power, but all things are intended for His glory.
He is our creator and we were created for Him. This explains what our purpose in life is. It's for Him. God made us for Himself.
And, when we begin living our lives in accordance with His purpose, our lives are transformed into the image of Christ, and our lives begin to reflect our wonderful God. We become living witnesses of our God. We become filled with a peace and joy and hope that we cannot find anywhere else in the world.

4. Everything will be to His glory forever and forever.
Romans 11:36 For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen.

We live in the now, but will live on past the now into the future which is called the hereafter. While here we are created for Him and are to give Him glory, but we will also give Him glory forever and forever.

This life is very very short. But once we leave here and enter into the next life we enter into the greatest blessing that is available to man. So we can have a fulfilling life here as we line up our wills with God living for Him, and we will continue once we leave here and meet God face to face. What a glorious future awaits us.

Some questions:

1. How often do you think about why God created you?

2. How does it affect you when you realize that God has a purpose for you?

3. What happens to you as you yield yourself to God and His purpose for your life?

4. What words would you use to describe the blessings of living for God as He intended you to live?

5. Would you affirm your purpose in life today to the Lord, telling Him you want to live for Him, and to know Him?

A prayer:

Father what wonderful truths are contained in this verse.
Romans 11:36 For of Him and through Him and to Him are all things, to whom be glory forever. Amen.
Thank You for loving us so. And thank You for showing us that we have a God given purpose in our lives. It's You. It's living for You. And it's not only to know You, but to make You known to the world we live in. Please empower us with the Holy Spirit, and help us to live in accordance with Your perfect will for us today. In Jesus name, amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT NOT TO TRUST IN, AND WHO TO TRUST IN"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT NOT TO TRUST IN, AND WHO TO TRUST IN"

Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the LORD our God.

Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions, and a prayer:

This particular Psalm, as with the vast majority of the Psalms, was written by King David. And the simple theme of this Psalm is the assurance of God's Saving Work. As you read through the entire Psalm, you can see David singing of, and pointing his readers to the Lord, and encouraging them to put their trust in Him. He especially encourages trust in God during the days and times of trouble. And he states over and over again how God will help those who trust in God.

1. There are some things we should avoid trusting in.
Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses;

David is not saying that we should not use the normal and appropriate means in life to protect ourselves, or to defend ourselves. But what David is saying is that these things that we may need to use in life, are not really what we should trust in to save us. We can use these things, but we do not need to trust in them is the point.

"Preparation for battle is necessary, but trust in God is priority one" David Jeremiah.

2. But we will remember the name of the LORD our God.
Psalm 20:7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the LORD our God.

David now clearly points to what we ought to remember, it's the name of the LORD our God.
Whenever the phrase "the name of the LORD" is used, it's a reference to the character, reputation, and the nature of God.

To remember the LORD means to call to mind, to think, to recall, or you could say to meditate on. When we call to mind who the LORD is, and we meditate on Him, we find Him giving us strength.

For example, David may have been remembering what happened when he fought Goliath. He did not use the weapons and armor provided for him, but rather he picked up 5 stones and used a sling, but he fought Goliath in the strength of God.
He slung that one stone at this over 9 foot tall giant and brought him down, and then went and cut his head off with the giants own sword. David did not win that fight on his own, but rather he won it by God's power and strength.

Some questions:

1. What is the first thing you normally default to when a real challenge comes your way?

2. Can you remember the last time you really called out to God when you were in trouble?

3. Can you compare the times of trusting in something other than God and the times of trusting in God?

4. Do you know that if you will think about the Lord, i.e meditate on Him, you will find strength coming into your soul?

5. Will you pause right now and ask God to help you deepen your trust in Him, and make God the one you turn to first?

A prayer:

Father thank You for Your Word. Thank You especially for the Psalms. They always seem to resonate with our lives and circumstances. They are so encouraging and instructive to us. They are filled with one testimony after another of both human weakness, and God's great strength and power in the lives of those who put their trust in You. May we be those people Lord.
May we learn to think about You more often, to really ponder You day by day. We thank You in advance for the grace, and the power, strength, and victory You will bring into our lives. In Jesus name, amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT A FACT, AND A PROMISE GOD HAS FOR YOU"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT A FACT, AND A PROMISE GOD HAS FOR YOU"

2nd Chronicles 16:9 “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. In this you have done foolishly; therefore from now on you shall have wars.”

Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions, and a prayer:

This wonderful fact, and promise about what God will do was actually given to King Asa, after he had foolishly trusted in a pagan king to help him deal with a threat against Judah. Asa had previously trusted the Lord against adversaries, but for some reason when this new threat came, rather than trusting in and turning to God for help, he turned to a Syrian King, a pagan. So, this verse was given to re-explain if you will to King Asa what God will do for His people. The verse is a promise given in the context of a reproof and rebuke to King Asa.

1. God has eyes and is searching the whole earth.
2nd Chronicles 16:9 “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth....

The Lord is looking each and every day, all through the earth as it were. He is actively doing this.
He is doing this for a reason, which is stated in the next point.
But, for now, it's a blessing to know that this very day, our God is looking throughout the whole earth, and He is looking for a certain kind of heart. And He is looking in order to do something for that person's heart.

2. God is searching the earth in order to strengthen hearts.
2nd Chronicles 16:9 “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong.....

So, here we have the explanation as to why God is looking and searching through the earth day by day. It's so that He can show Himself strong. He wants to strengthen the person who has a heart that is a certain way.
That heart is described in the next point.

3. God will strengthen the heart that is loyal or fully committed to Him.
2nd Chronicles 16:9 “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.

The heart God wants to strengthen, is the heart that is loyal to Him, or the heart that is fully committed to Him.
That is, as compared to what King Asa did. Asa could have received strength from God as he had in the past, but in this instance his heart was not loyal to God but he was trusting in a man a king, an earthly pagan king at that.

4. May God help us to not follow King Asa's example of trusting in man rather than in God.
2nd Chronicles 16:9 “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. In this you have done foolishly; therefore from now on you shall have wars.”

When Asa trusted God, God strengthened him. When we trust God, He will strengthen us also. That's called having faith in God. But if we choose to neglect trusting God then He is unable to help us. Listen to these wise words from Proverbs

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding;
Proverbs 3:6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

So on the one hand we can trust the Lord and receive His blessing, strength, and guidance etc. Or on the other we can be like King Asa, and trust in man and reap the consequences. In his case it was war after war after war.
God wants us to trust Him and let Him direct our paths and make the way plain for us.

Some Questions:

1. Isn't this a wonderful promise from God.?

2. And isn't it also a good warning to be careful as to who and what we are trusting in .?

3. Imagine that at this very moment our God is looking all through the earth and He is looking for hearts that are looking to Him as it were. He promises to give us strength.

4. Are you looking to God today. Will You look to God today and will you thank Him in advance for the strength He will give you?.

A prayer:

Father, thank You for giving us these true accounts of men and women in the Bible who we can relate to. You do not hide their faults and we can learn from them. Please help us to take these examples, whether they good one's or bad one's. We want to follow the good examples, and avoid the bad ones. .

Help us Lord to learn how to walk with You, and thank You that today You are looking for loyal or committed hearts to You in order to give them strength. Give us strength Lord, give us strength, we need it. In Jesus name, amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S WORKING IN ALL THINGS"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S WORKING IN ALL THINGS"

Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:

This verse has probably brought more comfort to Christians down through the ages than just about any other.
It certainly has been that way for me, and most people I've known. Paul is describing and explaining the Christian life in this portion of Romans, and He is specifically talking about the way the Lord works in our lives. He explains in great detail how God is at work in every last thing that happens to us.

Here's how it reads in the NLT Rom 8:28 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

1. Here's a fact/truth that we know.
Romans 8:28 And we know etc.

You will notice what Paul says in the first part of this verse. He talks about what he and other Christians, know.
Paul knew this to be true, because it was God's Word.
And, Paul believed it to be true because it was God's Word.
Faith brings the truth of God's Word into our lives and brings with it, the blessings He intends.
And, this fact is a blessing indeed .
This is a fact that you can know and believe and be blessed by.

2. Here is the fact/truth that we know.
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good ....etc.

The fact/truth is that God is causing all things that are in our lives to work together for good in our lives.
That is a blessing indeed.
Think for a moment as to the meaning of this truth.
Everything that happens to you, the good, the difficult, the painful, the evil, the bad, the sin, literally everything, is by God's working, made to work together for good in your life.
This is an incredible blessing indeed.

3. Here's who this fact/truth is for.
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

This fact/truth is not a blanket promise or truth for all people.
But rather it's for a specific group of people.
That group of people are identified in the verse.
They are the one's who love God and the ones who are called according to His purpose.
In other words, this fact/truth, is for every Christian.
So, if you are a believer, than this wonderful truth is for you.

4. Here's a fact/truth about God's intentions and plans.
Romans 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.

You will notice at the end of the verse, that it speaks of God's purpose.
It's interesting to pause and think for a moment about the fact that God has a purpose for you.
We often think about our purpose, but God has a purpose as well.
What is the purpose of God?
What would you say it is?
How would you describe it?

In short, His purpose is to save you from your sins, from eternal separation from Himself, to be Your God in this life, to be so involved in your life, that He is working all things together for good in your life. And, to cause you to grow up into the man Christ Jesus. To use you as you use your spiritual gifts to serve others, and thus serve the Lord. To bless you, to keep you, to protect you, to help you, to forgive you, to guide you, to provide for you, to show You His love, to give you joy, peace and all that goes along with the fruit of His Spirit. And, when it's all said and done, to take you to heaven to be with Him forever.
That's His purpose. And the truth is, that more could be said, but we just don't have the time here today to list them all.

Some questions:

1. Are you familiar with this verse?

2. Have you ever really thought deeply about it.?

3. Would you take a moment to re-read it, and ponder what it says?.

4. Would you try to memorize this verse, it's an easy one to commit to memory?.

5. How would you describe it's effect upon you today, reading this devotional and thinking about this verse?

A prayer:

Father, Your Word is like nothing else in the entire world. You have provided us with all we need to live for You. You give us daily bread as it were. We run across verses in the Bible like this one, that strike us deeply, and are like a well of fresh water that never runs dry. Father this truth has comforted so many of Your children. And, for those of us who are familiar with it, we would like to say thank You for the many, many times You have brought it to our minds just at the right time. This truth is like a pillow for our soul. We can rest on it, and find endless comfort. Thank You Lord. In Jesus name.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SUFFERING NOW, AND THE GLORY TO COME"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SUFFERING NOW, AND THE GLORY TO COME"

Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:

In Romans 8, Paul is explaining how we live the Christian life. And, this particular view gives us heavens perspective on the present and the future. On suffering now, and the glory to come. I might add, this is one of my most favorite verses in the whole Bible. I trust you will be encouraged by this verse, and the devotional thoughts shared below.

1. Contrast is a normal part of life.
Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

We live now. But, there is a past, and there is also a future. Paul is addressing the now of life, and also looking at the future of our lives. What a huge contrast there is between the now and the future. Look again at what Paul says.

Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

2. In this life we experience sufferings.
Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

Paul speaks of the sufferings of this present time. He is speaking not just about his own sufferings, or the sufferings of the Christians in Rome, but the sufferings of life in general. But, He is specifically speaking of the sufferings of any and all Christians, including you who know Christ today.

Jesus talked about sufferings and tribulations.
John 16:33 “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”

Paul spoke of them also.
Acts 14:22 where they strengthened the believers. They encouraged them to continue in the faith, reminding them that they must enter into the Kingdom of God through many tribulations.

And, so did Peter.
1st Peter 4:12 Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you.

3. The sufferings we experience now have a certain "unworthiness" to them.
Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

Isn't' this interesting? Sufferings can be so painful, and so overwhelming, but Paul says they are not "worthy".
Paul was looking at the reality of his own sufferings, but he was also looking ahead to the future he would have in heaven..
That's why he called them "Not worthy"

As difficult as sufferings are, they pale in comparison to what is coming to the child of God once he or she arrives in heaven,

4. The future holds glory for all who have come to know God through faith in Jesus Christ.
Romans 8:18 For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.

Here's how Paul pulls it all together. He considered or understood that the sufferings we go through now are nothing compared to the glory that God is going to give us later, once we get to heaven.

We will not even be tempted to compare the two by saying things like, "Wow, all that suffering was sure worth it" No, we will not compare what we go through now, with what God is going to give us once we get to heaven. What a glorious future awaits every believer.

Some questions:

1. Are you going through a time of suffering right now?

2. Will you ask God to help you keep the big and future reality of heaven in mind?

3. Things may be difficult now, but there is coming a day when they won't be,

4. Will you ask the Lord to help you be more mindful of the truths contained in this verse in Rom 8?.

5. Isn't it wonderful to know that one day we will be in heaven with God?

6. Who do you know that is already there?

7. One day, you and I will join them.

A prayer:

Father, thank You for the hope we have in Jesus Christ. We have faith, hope and love. We can rejoice in the hope of Glory.
Lord Jesus, thank You also for what You endured on the cross, so that we do not have to endure eternal punishment for our sins. You bore all of our sins, and you paid for each and every one of them. Thank You.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S PROMISE TO FORGIVE, TO HEAL AND TO RESTORE"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S PROMISE TO FORGIVE, TO HEAL AND TO RESTORE"

2nd Chronicles 7:14 “if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.

Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:

This verse comes towards the end of a lengthy prayer by Solomon, and by a lengthy response from God.
It's a well known verse, used often in times when people need forgiveness, healing, and restoration.
Perhaps the most simple and wonderful thing about this verse, is that's "it's true" This is what God will do for His people who will follow His instruction. It applied to Israel, and it applies to us today.

1. God has his people who are called by His name.
2nd Chronicles 7:14 “if My people who are called by My name

The people here were of course the people of Israel. But, we are ( who have come to God through faith in Jesus Christ are also His people ) So, what is in this verse, by way of promise and instruction is for us today. These things are for the people of God.
So, if you are a Christian, this verse, and all that is in it, is for you. What a blessing.

2. God's people can humble themselves and pray and seek His face.
2nd Chronicles 7:14 “if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face,

Now here, God tells us what will happen if we as His people follow His instruction. There are four things said here.

(1) Humble ourselves.

(2) Pray.

(3) Seek the face of God.

(4) Turn, or repent from our wicked ways.

These are the conditions that God has set for Him to bring His blessing into the lives of His people. Humility, prayer, and seeking His face, along with repentance from wickedness

3. God will hear from heaven, He will forgive sin, and He will heal our land.
2nd Chronicles 7:14 “if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.

Here is what God promise He will do, if we will do what He calls us to do. As it's been said before, "When God's people become what God intends for them to become, than God can do for them what He wants to do"

But, we must approach God on His terms, not on ours. And, He has laid them out for us right here.

Some Questions:

1. Isn't this a wonderful promise?.

2. Are you one of God's people?.

3. Are you in need of God's healing and restoration?

4. Can you see what God calls you to do in this verse?.

5. If you need help and healing from God and this verse fits your situation, will you take God at His word and be not just a hearer, but a doer?.

A prayer:

Father, thank You for this wonderful prayer of Solomon's. And, thank You for Your wonderful and encouraging response and promise to his prayer. This particular verse is so full of instruction, and promise, it's truly a great blessing, Thank You again for it. Would You help us, and any who are in great need of healing, forgiveness and restoration to meditate on this verse and take You at Your Word. In Jesus name, amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S GOODNESS, AND HIS MERCY"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S GOODNESS, AND HIS MERCY"

2nd Chronicles 5:13 For He is good, For His mercy endures forever,” that the house, the house of the LORD, was filled with a cloud,

Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:

This verse, is part of a narrative of the moment when when the temple built by Solomon had been completed, and was about to be dedicated. Let's just break it down, and enjoy the truth and blessing found in it. 

1. God's people were united in their praise of God.
2nd Chronicles 5:13 indeed it came to pass, when the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD, and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised the LORD, saying:

The people had worked hard and with joy to accomplish this wonderful task, and now at it's completion they were rejoicing together. They were God's people, and were united simply by their being Israelites, but, additionally, they were united in their worship of God. 

We today are also God's people, and while we are not building God's temple, we are actually the temple of God. Our bodies are His temple, and He dwells within each one of us. But, we are united by having been placed into Christ, and are united by virtue of sharing in His grace, His love, and His mercy. And, we can, and ought to express our unity when we gather together and sing the wonderful praises of our God, as so many have done down through the centuries. One day, we will join those in heaven, who are at this very moment praising God, along with the angelic beings, and what a day that will be. 

2. God's people declared, "For He is good"
2nd Chronicles 5:13b..... For He is good, 

Here is a declaration about the truth of who the Lord is. He is good. It's a simple phrase, but, it's profound in it's meaning and in it's truth. He has been good, He is good, and He will continue forever and ever to be good. 

What does it mean? It means, good, best, fair, fine, pleasant, agreeable, good and right in the ethical sense.
We only see God's darkly now through a glass as it were. But, one day, we will see Him face to face, and understand His goodness completely. But for now, which of us would not say He is good? He has been so good to the entire world, in providing a savior for all men, and any person who wants to can receive Christ, and receive the goodness of God into their lives. Here are two verses that I trust will be an encouragement to you about the goodness of the Lord.

Psalm 27:13 I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living.

Psalm 33:5 He loves righteousness and justice; The earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.

3. God's people declared "For His mercy endures forever"
2nd Chronicles 5:13c For He is good, For His mercy endures forever

Not only is the Lord good, and that will never change, because He is unchanging in who He is. But, His mercy will endure, or continue forever. And forever, and ever, and ever. 

Right now, this very day, His mercy is a reality. His mercy has continued right up until this day. 

God's mercy, speaks of His compassion. That's essentially what mercy means, it's compassion.
It also means, His kindness, lovingkindness, goodness, favor, pity, and faithfulness. 

The people of God who were there dedicating the temple knew this about God, and that's why they were singing out about His mercy. You and I also know His mercy. And, we like they did, can sing it out from our hearts, honoring the Lord for His mercy. 

Psalm 103:17 But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting On those who fear Him, And His righteousness to children’s children,

Psalm 103:8 The LORD is merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.

Some questions:

1. If asked, how would you describe the way God has been good to you?

2. Can you think of any other way's that God has been good to you?

3. How about His mercy, how has God been merciful to you?

4. Would You pray about how you might show and or tell others about God's goodness and His mercy?

A prayer:

Father, Thank You for who You are. Before were saved, we did not know these wonderful truths about You. in fact, we probably lived with a very distorted view of who You were. But, now that You have saved us, we are learning a little day by day about You. And, what a joy it is to grow in the grace and the knowledge of God. Thank You for Your goodness, and for Your mercy Lord. May we walk in those things, and may our lives be a living demonstration of who You are. May people see You in and through us. In Jesus name, amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SIN AND GRACE"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SIN AND GRACE"

Romans 5:21 so that as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:

Paul is deep into his lengthy and most wonderful explanation of Justification by Grace through faith. He spends the first 11 Chapters of Romans explaining the need for salvation, and the false view of self salvation by good works, and the unspeakable gift of grace that God has given in and through Jesus Christ, to save all who will repent of their sins and turn to Him in faith.
In this verse today, Paul is contrasting the effect of sin, and the effect of grace. There is sin, and there is grace.

1. The fact is, that sin has entered the world, and all men are sinners, under it's power.
Romans 5:21 so that as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Sin entered the world through Adam's disobedience, resulting in all his descendants being born sinners, separated from God.

And living in world controlled by the devil. And, each person having a sinful nature. What a universal tragedy sin has brought.

This is why life is the way it is. It's because of sin. Ultimately, the worst effect of sin is death. Both physical and spiritual. We are dead in our sins, and we are separated from God.

2. The other fact is, that grace has also come into the world, and men can live forever with God by receiving it.
Romans 5:21 so that as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Now, here is the good news. Though sin came into the world, so has grace. And while sin reigns in death, grace reigns through righteousness to eternal life.
This means that we do not have to simply remain without God, guilty of sin, and bound for eternal separation from God.

Grace means, that we can now be united with God, no longer guilty, but forgiven of our sins, and given life forever with God.

Sin brings the worst possible experience and eternal outcome. Grace brings the very best life now, and the best life forever and forever.

3. To receive Christ giving us a right standing with God, resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Romans 5:21 so that as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Here's how this verse reads in the NLT
Romans 5:21 So just as sin ruled over all people and brought them to death, now God’s wonderful kindness rules instead, giving us right standing with God and resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Sin rules, and brings death. But, God who is rich in mercy, even when we were dead in our sins, has made us alive together with Christ, for it's by grace that we have been saved. Instead of death forever, God freely gives us life now, and life forever with Him.

Questions:

1. Are you confident you are saved?

2. When do you think You became saved?

3. Do you have assurance and peace that You are saved?

4. Can you remember what it was like to live under sin's power all the time?

5. How would you describe the change that has come into your life through the grace of God?

6. Do you know that God is going to finish His work in you, and take you to heaven, when it's all said and done?.

7. Finally, as a word of encouragement, do you know that God is working all things together for good in the lives of those who know Him, and love Him?

A prayer:

Father, this verse in Romans says it all. All of life, it's worst and it's best are summed up in this one verse. Sin/Grace. We sinned, but You have provided grace for we who are sinners. Grace is Your free gift to sinners. Faith is also a gift to sinners.
And, so is repentance a gift from God. Your goodness is what leads a person to repent and be saved. Thank You Lord for all that You have done through Christ. And, all that You have done in working in each one of our lives, in making those who believe the children of God, forever and forever.

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE GIVING US AN EXAMPLE OF FAITH IN GOD"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE GIVING US AN EXAMPLE OF FAITH IN GOD"

Rom 4:18 who, contrary to hope, in hope believed, so that he became the father of many nations, according to what was spoken, “So shall your descendants be.”

Rom 4:19 And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah’s womb.

Rom 4:20 He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God,

Rom 4:21 and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform.

Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:

This short passage taken from Romans four, is part of a long explanation by Paul of the truth that man is not saved by works but by faith. And, in this passage, Paul goes in depth in showing us how it was that Abraham believed. He gives us four "keys" to faith if you will. I pray that you might take the time to really consider these keys, or explanations of what faith looks like in action. May God bless you in your faith in God. P.S these verses all have to do with the promise that God made to Abraham, that he and his wife Sarah would have a child, ( they were in fact by all normal understanding too old to have a child ) But, Abraham believed God, and they did have that child. Isaac was his name.

1. Faith hopes even when there is no logical reason to hope.
Rom 4:18 who, contrary to hope, in hope believed, so that he became the father of many nations, according to what was spoken, “So shall your descendants be.”

God had spoken to Abraham, but, when he looked at the situation, his own body, Sarah's body etc, their age in general, what was there to hope in?. There was not physical, visible reason to hope. But, as the verse says, "contrary to hope, in hope believed" So, this is the first key or explanation about faith. Even when things look hopeless, faith says, "I believe God's Word" That's what Abraham did. He hoped against hope as it were.

2. Faith does not look at the circumstances, but at God.
Rom 4:19 And not being weak in faith, he did not consider his own body, already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah’s womb.

This is another very important key to faith. Faith does not look at the circumstances, but rather looks at God, and or believes what God has said. God spoke to Abraham, when he was an old man, his body was dead as it were, with respect to having children. He was too old to have children. He was 100 years old. Just think about that for a moment. Additionally, Sarah was too old to have a child. Her womb was dead. Think for a moment if two people about 100 years old walked in and announced to you, that God had spoken to them, that they were going to have a child. What would you honestly think?

Abraham had to deal with these same physical circumstances. But, he chose not to look at the physical impossibilities before him, but rather, he chose to look at, or believe in God, and believe in what God had told Him.

3. Faith does not waver at the promise of God through unbelief.
Rom 4:20 He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God,

Here's how this reads in the NLT Rom 4:20 Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God.

Waver means, to doubt, have misgivings. So, faith does not waver. What causes wavering is unbelief. Unbelief and Faith cannot co-exist side by side. They do not go together. Abraham chose to believe, not to walk in unbelief.

4. Faith is convinced that what God has promised, God is also able to perform.
Rom 4:21 and being fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform.

This last key, is a very simple and descriptive of faith. Faith is convinced that if God has said something, than that something is not only true, but it will come to pass. Wow. That's the kind of faith we all need isn't it.

Again, here's how it reads in the NLT Rom 4:21 He was absolutely convinced that God was able to do anything he promised.

5. In summary then, the four keys of faith are......

1. Faith hopes even when there is no logical reason to hope.
2. Faith does not look at the circumstances, but at God.
3. Faith does not waver at the promise of God through unbelief.
4. Faith is convinced that what God has promised, God is also able to perform.

Some questions:

1. Are you encouraged by reading this?

2. It's a real help isn't it. To see faith in action?

3. Do you know that you can also through faith, exercise your faith just as Abraham did?.

4. Do things look hopeless, and you can see no way out?. Remember, put your eyes on the Lord.

5. Do you know that you can ask God to strengthen you, and make you strong in faith?

6. Also, our faith comes from the Bible. When we are in the Word, that's how we gain faith.

A prayer:

Father, thank You for this wonderful story of the father of our faith Abraham. He had everything against him as it were, but he chose to believe you. That's the way we want to be Lord. Help us to be like Abraham. You have already given us faith, so we can believe You, and we do, but help us in our unbelief. Make us hungry for Your Word, and increase our faith. Give us strength Lord in our weakness, and lead us to believe You, look at You, and not at the circumstances which can and do discourage us so quickly. Help us to keep our eyes on You Lord. In Jesus name.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE MERCY OF THE LORD"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE MERCY OF THE LORD"

Psalm 13:5 But I have trusted in Your mercy; My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation.
Psalm 13:6 I will sing to the LORD, Because He has dealt bountifully with me.

Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:

David, as was often the case, was going through a time of great difficulty. And, as was also the case, he was crying out to God, which is the best thing we can do in times of trouble. And, as with many of David's Psalm's, they start out in the depths as it were, but end with a great sense of relief and confidence in God, and praise to God. Such is what happened in this Psalm.
You may want to read the first part of the Psalm, that lead up to these last two verses. The whole Ps is only 6 verses long.

1. We can trust in God's mercy.
Psalm 13:5 But I have trusted in Your mercy;

Here David tells us what he trusted in. It was God's mercy. The word mercy means kindness, lovingkindness, favor, pity, goodness, and faithfulness. These are all descriptions of our God. He is merciful.

Ps 103:8 The LORD is merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy.
La 3:23* They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.
Ps 27:13* I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living.

2. We can rejoice in God's salvation.
Psalm 13:5 But I have trusted in Your mercy; My heart shall rejoice in Your salvation.

So, not only did David trust in God's mercy, His goodness, but, his heart also rejoiced in God's salvation in his life.

Ps 37:39* But the salvation of the righteous is from the LORD; He is their strength in the time of trouble.
Ps 50:23* Whoever offers praise glorifies Me; And to him who orders his conduct aright I will show the salvation of God.”
Hab 3:18* Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.

3. We can sing to the Lord.
Psalm 13:6 I will sing to the LORD,

So, to review, David trusted in God's mercy, He rejoiced in God's Salvation, and what else could he do but sing to the Lord.
Ps 95:1* Oh come, let us sing to the LORD! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation.
Ps 96:1* Oh, sing to the LORD a new song! Sing to the LORD, all the earth.
Ps 96:2 Sing to the LORD, bless His name; Proclaim the good news of His salvation from day to day.

4. We have a Savior who deals bountifully with us.
Psalm 13:6 I will sing to the LORD, Because He has dealt bountifully with me.

David sums it all up for us. God had dealt bountifully with him.
And, such is the case with us.
God deals with us in the same way.
Like David, you may be going through a tough time right now, but, take David as an example of what to do, and You also will find the bountiful goodness of the Lord towards You.

Some questions:

1. Would you say that at this time in your life, you are being encouraged to trust in God?

2. Would you say that, in fact, You are seeking to trust in God, or to have faith in God and His Word?

3. Can you attest to the fact of God's great mercy towards You?

4. Do you rejoice in His salvation?

5. Do you know that You are the object of God's mercy, salvation, and grace?

A prayer:

Father, what can we say about Your mercy? Your mercies are new every morning, and You have been so good to us, and You are being good to us, and You will be good to us forever, and ever. Please help us to not look at the troubles we have, but rather to look to the one who helps us in our troubles. Help us Lord to keep our eyes on You, and give us Your power and strength in our inner man. In Jesus name. Amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT YOUR HEART AND GOD"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT YOUR HEART AND GOD"

1st Chronicles 22:19 “Now set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD your God.

Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:

King David was preparing two things. One for the building of the temple. David had gathered most if not all of the supplies needed to construct the temple. And, had assigned the building of it to his son Solomon. Secondly, David gave wonderful Godly instruction to Solomon as to what to do with his heart as he moved forward in building the temple.

1. Now is the time we live in, and it's now that we can follow David's counsel.
1st Chronicles 22:19 “Now set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD your God.

We are alive today in Christ. Yesterday is over, and tomorrow is not here yet. We live now, today, one day at a time.
What a blessing to focus our attention on today, on the now, and to realize that this day we can act towards our God, and He will gladly accept our actions.

2. Thank God that we can make the decision to do what David advised Solomon to do.
1st Chronicles 22:19 “Now set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD your God.

We just like Solomon, and just like any other human being have the capacity of choice, we have a free will. David was encouraging Solomon to make a choice and act towards God.

You and I can make that same choice today, and throughout the day, and in the midst of any situation that arises this day.

3. God has given you a new heart and the freedom of will to follow this Godly counsel.
1st Chronicles 22:19 “Now set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD your God.

Before you were saved, it would have been impossible to do what David was advising Solomon.
But, now that you are alive in Christ, you also can do what is in this verse. You have been set free by the power of Jesus Christ to act towards God. And, You will find that as you do, God will also act towards you.

4. You can set your heart and your soul to seek after the LORD your God.
1st Chronicles 22:19 “Now set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD God.

Well, here's the counsel about our hearts/souls and God.

(1) You can set your heart and soul.
This is the decision making freedom we have.
Here's how this reads in the NLT "Now seek the LORD your God with all your heart."
The word seek, means to give, put, deliver, bring, appoint, devote, consecrate, commit, entrust, yield.
There was a time when you could not do this. That was when you were dead in your sins and trespasses. When you were under the power and control of sin and Satan. But that has all changed now, you are free, and free to set your heart, the inner you towards God.

(2) You can set your heart and soul to seek after the LORD your God.
Seeking after the LORD your God. This is the goal, this the reason for the decision as it were.
We can draw near to God.
He will draw near to us.
If we seek Him, we will find Him.
He is supremely interested in our seeking Him.
In fact, He has created us to know Him, and to love Him, and to glorify Him.
So, you can rest assured that if you seek Him, He will be found by you.
And, we can seek Him with all of our heart.
We can consecrate ourselves throughout this day, to Him.

Some Questions:

1. What tasks or responsibilities has the Lord set before you to do?

2. Isn't it wonderful that God would actually have a plan for us to fulfill?

3. Do we realize that God has placed His relationship with us above even the task He has assigned to us?

4. Will you take a moment now, and simply do what David counseled Solomon to do.
1st Chronicles 22:19 “Now set your heart and your soul to seek the LORD your God.

A prayer:

Father, some days we wake up and have the spiritual blahs, other days we wake up and have the spiritual clarity of mind and great interest of heart. Either way, we can day by day, follow the advice given to Solomon. And, we ask that this day, as we move through the day, that You would remind us of Your being with us, and that we have direct access to You every moment of each hour. So, we ask for grace, for power and strength in our inner man, to set our hearts towards You to seek You.
We want to also say thank You for sending Christ, and forgiving us of our sins, and making us Your children. In Jesus name. Amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE SOME TRUTHS ABOUT GOD"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE SOME TRUTHS ABOUT GOD"

Psalm 11:7 For the LORD is righteous, He loves righteousness; His countenance beholds the upright.

Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:

There is no way to know for sure what the circumstances were when David wrote this Psalm. He may have been running and hiding from Saul, or his own son Absalom may have been causing him trouble, or it may have been just the normal fights he endured against the enemies of Israel. But, as you read this Psalm, you can see that David remained faithful. And, as he gets to the end of this Psalm he speaks of the greatness of God. There are three things that he says about God. And, these things are as true today for you who know the Lord, as they were for David when he penned them.

1. For the LORD is righteous.
Psalm 11:7 For the LORD is righteous, He loves righteousness; His countenance beholds the upright.

So, here is the first truth about God. The word LORD means, Jehovah, or the existing one. This is one of the primary names of God throughout the Bible. It's the proper name of the one true God. God is the "existing one"

And, the LORD is righteous. Or the LORD is just, right, in conduct and character, justified, correct, and lawful.
That's who the Existing one is.
He is all of that today for you.

2. He loves righteousness.
Psalm 11:7 For the LORD is righteous, He loves righteousness; His countenance beholds the upright.

Here's the second thing said about the LORD. Here is something He loves. He loves justice. And, justice means, righteousness, it's one of God's attributes, it speaks of truthfulness, of righteous acts, and simply, that which is right.
God loves justice.

What a great God we have and serve.

3. His countenance beholds the upright.
Psalm 11:7 For the LORD is righteous, He loves righteousness; His countenance beholds the upright.

Not only is the LORD righteous and He loves righteousness or justice, but, notice this third thing that is said about Him.
It means, "Those who do what is right will see His face"

Jesus said it this way in Matt 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God.
Or, God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God.

Some questions:

1. Do you ever take the time to really think about who the Lord is, and what His character is like?

2. When we do, isn't it a blessing indeed?

3. In fact, is there anything you could compare it to in terms of the blessings you receive?

4. Would You agree "how great is our God?"

5. And, do you know today, that this is our LORD who loves us so much?

A prayer:

Father, Your Word is so enlightening and revealing to us. It shows us who You are. And, in this one simple verse, penned by Your inspiration so long ago, we learn once again about Your greatness. Thank You for being righteous, and for loving righteousness, and for loving us so, and allowing us to know You and to see your face. We love You Lord, and pray that today, You would help us to be mindful of You throughout the day.
In Jesus name, amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD HELPING US TO PRAY"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD HELPING US TO PRAY"

1st Chronicles 17:25 “For You, O my God, have revealed to Your servant that You will build him a house. Therefore Your servant has found it in his heart to pray before You.

Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:

As David was beginning his reign as King, and following the Lord and seeking to establish the nation in a way that was pleasing to the Lord, he wanted to build a house for God. But, the Lord told him not to. And, David was accepting of that.
And, in the process of wanting to build a house for God, but then being directed not to, a relationship of prayer was staring to take place in David's life with the Lord. That's what's told us in this verse.

1. God reveals His will to His servants.
1st Chronicles 17:25 “For You, O my God, have revealed to Your servant that You will build him a house.

David had wanted to build a house for God, and was ready to do it. In fact, the prophet Nathan encouraged him to go forward with this plan. But, shortly thereafter, God spoke to Nathan, and told him to go back to David, and to say, "No" don't build the Lord a house.

So, in here is simple example of God showing or revealing His will to one of His servants, and He will do the same for you as well.

2. God's will sometimes is a green light, and sometimes it's a red light.
1st Chronicles 17:25 “For You, O my God, have revealed to Your servant that You will build him a house.

Not only did God tell David, not to build him a house, but that He would build David a house. So, here you have on the one hand a red light, "don't build the house for God" and on the other hand, "I will build you a house David"

God is the Lord, and we are His servants. And, His will is always best. Father does know best, that's for sure. If it's a green light, than we ought to walk through that intersection or door that God has opened, and if it's red light, than, without grumbling or complaining etc, we ought to put the brakes on, and just back up, re-group, and see what God has for in the day's ahead. Either way, God is at the controls, red or green, it makes no matter, because it's God's will.

3. God's people as the case was here with David, are called servants.
1st Chronicles 17:25 .....Therefore Your servant has found it in his heart to pray before You.

David referred to himself as "Your servant" The word servant as it's used here, means, a bondman, a slave, one in subjection, a worshipper. We have such a wonderful gift from God in Jesus Christ. He not only will save us from our sins, but than, calls us to give our lives to Him as servants. Placing ourselves in subjection to Him day by day. What better master is there to serve than the Living and true God.

4. God's servants, though servants have the great blessing of being able to talk directly to God.
1st Chronicles 17:25 “For You, O my God, have revealed to Your servant that You will build him a house. Therefore Your servant has found it in his heart to pray before You.

Prayer is really in one sense a response to God. That was the case here. God had revealed His will to David, and David was than communicating back to God. He was praying. Prayer is talking to God. That's as complicated as it gets. God's people can actually talk to Him. And, David had found it in his heart to pray before God,

God can work in any life, and they can have the same testimony as David did here, to talk to God.

5. God's servant David was finding in his own heart, "to pray before You"
1st Chronicles 17:25 “For You, O my God, have revealed to Your servant that You will build him a house. Therefore Your servant has found it in his heart to pray before You.

David was finding this in his own heart. To pray before God. Imagine for just a moment if you will, what a blessing it is when God finds one of His children wanting to talk with Him. It must be more of a blessing than we can realize. But, this desire in the heart of David to pray is one that can be in your heart as well. You can ask God to put this desire in your heart, and you can be sure that you will wake up one day, and start realizing, "I'm wanting to pray and talk to God, this is becoming important in my life, I understand it's something very helpful in my life and ministry"

Some questions:

1. Do you have what we call a prayer life?

2. Have you had a prayer life in the past, and it's somehow slowly wound down to near non existence?

3. Do you know that you can ask the Lord to renew this desire to pray, and He will do it?

4. Will you pause right now, and ask God to begin working in your life to make you a servant of God who wants to pray, and does pray?

A prayer:

Father, here we are right now praying. And, it's our prayer first of all to say thank You for Your many, many blessings in our lives And, secondly, it's our prayer to say would You help us to want to pray. And, would You work in us, so that prayer becomes as natural to us as breathing is to our lungs. Thank You for loving us Father, and wanting to communicate with us.
We want to become men and women of prayer. In Jesus name, amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S HELP IN TIMES OF TROUBLE"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S HELP IN TIMES OF TROUBLE"

Psalm 9:9 The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, A refuge in times of trouble.
Psalm 9:10 And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You.

Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:

This Psalm is believed to be a Psalm expressing victory over the enemy. A Psalm of triumph. It's a Psalm that can encourage any believer to be courageous, and to look to God for help in trouble, and know that in Christ we are more than conquerors.

1. What God is for the person who is oppressed.
Psalm 9:9 The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed,

God's people often are oppressed. It's been that way, it is that way, and it will be that way until the Lord comes back.
But, that's not all God's people have. God's people have a refuge. It's God Himself. God is a shelter for those who are oppressed.

Oppressed means, crushed, or afflicted. So, if that is you today, please look to God your refuge, God your shelter.

2. Something else God is for the person in times of trouble.
Psalm 9:9 ...... A refuge in times of trouble.

God is indeed a refuge for those who are oppressed, and here we are told He is refuge for those who are in times of trouble.
Trouble means, distress, affliction, adversity, anguish, tribulation, and adversary. It speaks of those times of being in straits, when we are vexed, rivaled by the enemy.

God is a refuge, which means, defense, high tower, high fort. Secure, height, retreat, stronghold.
God is all of those things for the person who is in trouble.

3. What those do who know the name of the Lord.
Psalm 9:10 And those who know Your name will put their trust in You;

God is a refuge, but here we see what those who know Him will do. It's one thing for God to be something, it's quite another for what God is to become real and meaningful in our lives, and this occurs and takes place as a result of what is said in this verse.
"Those who know Your name will put their trust in You. Or believe You, take You at Your word, cry out to You, depend upon You, believe wholeheartedly in You, and experience Your great comfort.

4. Why those who know the name of the Lord trust Him.
Psalm 9:10 .....LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You.

This is so wonderfully comforting. That God has not forsaken the person who seeks Him. It may seem like He has. When the dark clouds of trouble hide His face. But, He is there, the clouds will come and go, but He will not. He will not forsake those who seek Him.

Isaiah 42:16 I will bring the blind by a way they did not know; I will lead them in paths they have not known. I will make darkness light before them, And crooked places straight. These things I will do for them, And not forsake them.

Questions:

1. Are you in a time of oppression, feeling crushed and perplexed?

2. Remember what God is, He is there for You.

3. Are you in a time of trouble and distress?

4. Remember, God is your refuge.

5. Do you know the Lord? Than you can put your trust in Him, because He has not forsaken you.

A prayer:

Father, a good day to You. We are today, one day closer then yesterday to seeing You face to face. And, for those today who may be going through a time of oppression, and a time of trouble, we pray for them, that they would find the truths of these verses hitting the target for their hearts and minds. Bless them with great sustaining peace and joy. We love You Lord, in Jesus name, amen

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARE IN A STORM"

"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARE IN A STORM"

Acts27: “Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me.

Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:

Paul was on a ship, that was in a violent storm, that actually ended in a shipwreck, but no lives were lost.
God had spoken to Paul earlier and assured him that he would not perish, nor would any of the others on board. And just as things were as bad as they could be, and men were panicking and putting themselves in danger ( as they tried to jump off the ship ) Paul stood up and spoke up and delivered a message to them. He spoke to them because God had spoken to him.

1. God speaks to us in the midst of storms that's for sure.

Here Paul recounts how God had spoken to him.
Acts 27:23 “For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve,
Acts 27:24 “saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.’

At the worst moment in this doomed voyage as it were, God spoke to Paul. And, gave him very specific words of instruction and encouragement.

And, it's always been that way with God's people. One story after another in Scripture attests to this fact. And, so do the countless testimonies of believers down through the ages. If you are in a storm, and you are looking to God, He will speak to You, and He will tell you exactly what to do, or what not to do.

2. God calls us to believe Him in the midst of storms.
Acts 27:24 “saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.’

Please notice what God said to Paul in the midst of the storm. "Do not be afraid, Paul;" Can you imagine how fearful it must have been to be in that life threatening situation, a shipwreck was taking place. Fear would have gripped every heart and mind with a fierceness. But, God speaks in storms, and He spoke to Paul. And, God will speak to you if you are in a storm.

Essentially, God will no doubt speak very similar words to you. He will tell you not to be afraid. He is your father, and you are His child. Children become afraid, ( and so do grown men and women ) but, God will comfort you just as fathers do for their children. He will tell you not to be afraid, and He will also explain why you don't need to be afraid. Just as he did here. See the reason that God gave to Paul.

Acts 27:24 “saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.’

3. God's Word to us can be trusted in the midst of a storm.
Acts 27:24 “saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must be brought before Caesar; and indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you.’

God's Word can be trusted anytime. But it seems that in a storm, we are more focused on what God is saying, because we are more aware of our circumstances and the danger ( or what we think is danger ) associated with our circumstances.

God assured Paul that he was not going to perish, and that His plans for Paul would come to pass. Paul believed God's Word in the midst of the storm. And, may God help you also to believe Him if you are in a storm right now.

Questions:

1. Are you in a storm right now?

2. What has the Lord said to you in the midst of this storm?

3. If you don't think He has spoken to you, will you ask Him to do so?

4. Please be assured that God knows your situation, and He will speak to you.

5. Will you make the decision right now to put your faith completely in what God is going to say to you?

A prayer:

Father, Your Word contains so many records of so many of Your dealings with Your people down through the ages.
And, Your Word fits into our lives so perfectly. Thank You for caring for us so much, to give us clear advice, clear guidance, and unending encouragement through it. Please help us to listen and be doers of Your Word. In Jesus name. Amen.

Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia