"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT BEING CAREFUL AND ABOUT GROWING"
2nd Peter 3:17 “You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked;”
2nd Peter 3:18 “but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.”
Taken from today's reading in "The One Year Bible”.
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
Peter was affirming the fact that there would be people in the last days who deny the truth of God being a God who brings judgement on the wicked. And, that this same God who once flooded the entire world will one day destroy by fire this present earth and it's heavens.
Watch out for these who deny the truth is the idea. But, Peter was also encouraging his readers to press on in their walk with the Lord and live the kind of lives they ought to live in light of what they knew was coming.
1. Be careful to not fall from your own steadfastness.
2nd Peter 3:17 “You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked;”
Peter was warning his readers.
We benefit from heeding warnings.
Warnings heeded can keep us safe.
Warnings not heeded can lead us into error.
There is error all around.
What is it?
People who deny the truth of the Bible.
Watch out for the influence these people can have on you is the idea here.
If you’re not careful you can be carried away by their lies.
If you’re not careful you can lose your own secure footing.
Pay attention and stay stable and strong is the message here.
2. Be growing in the grace and the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
2nd Peter 3:18 “but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever. Amen.”
Rather than being led away, move toward Christ and grow.
We can grow, that is God's plan for each of His children.
Peter is encouraging his readers to grow.
We can grow in two different areas.
We can grow in the grace of God.
We can grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
What a contrast of potentials.
Led away by error from your own steadfastness.
Or growing stronger in Jesus Christ.
Some Questions:
1. Do you have people in your life who deny the truth of the Bible?
2. Do these people hound you, or mock you, or try to dissuade you from your faith?
3. If so, then watch out. Take Peter's exhortation to heart.
4. Can you grow in Christ?
5. Of course you can, so can all of us if we choose to.
A Prayer:
Father, if there was ever a man who knew failure it was Peter. And out of his failure he became strong and useful to You. He knew what he was talking about. Thank You for encouraging us to be careful of those who deny you. You love them and so should we. But, we need to be careful of their influence. Thank You also that You want us to grow in Christ. We want that Lord, and please help us to be growing.
Thank You for Your grace and mercy. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Saturday, November 29, 2014
Friday, November 28, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT GOD KNOWS HOW TO DO"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT GOD KNOWS HOW TO DO"
2nd Peter 2:9 “then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment,”
Taken from today's reading in "The One Year Bible”.
A little background, application, questions and a prayer:
Peter was dealing with the fact of false prophets in the church denying the 2nd coming and the ultimate judgement of God upon the ungodly Christ rejecting world. He gave several examples in this letter of previous judgements, and than spoke of the judgements to come.
But, He also wanted to emphasize the delivering power and grace God has for His children. And that would be us who believe in Jesus Christ.
1. The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations.
2nd Peter 2:9 “then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment,”
Of course there is nothing God does not know.
And, there is nothing God cannot do.
But it's so comforting to read what He can do for us.
God knows how to deliver the Godly out of temptation.
God knows when you are in a temptation or trial.
God cares about you in that temptation or trial.
God has a purpose for allowing you to be in that temptation or trial.
But, He also knows how to deliver You out of it.
He is the expert in all that He does.
He will deliver you.
He can do it, He does it everyday for his children.
He will do it for you.
2. The Lord knows how to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgement.
2nd Peter 2:9 “then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment,”
This other things is also something God knows how to do.
He is doing it right now as we read this devotional.
He has been doing it down through the ages.
He will continue to do it until time is no more.
He deals with the unjust in a just way.
He is reserving them under punishment for the day of judgment.
God does the reserving, and He will do the judging.
He would rather deliver them into eternal life than to judge them.
But he gives man a free will, and if men choose to reject Him, than they get what they want.
If man does not want God he will not have Him at the end of the day.
Some Questions:
1. Do you think much about what lies ahead?
2. Have you found God to be a faithful deliverer?
3. Do you need deliverance right now?
4. Do you believe He can deliver you?
5. Will you pray for the unsaved you know to repent before it's too late for them?
A Prayer:
Father, there is no one like You. You are above all, and no one can undo what You declare and decide. There is no one who has greater power than You do. We are weak in and of ourselves, but You are strong towards us. Be that today for us we pray. And we do pray for relatives, friends, people we know who are yet unsaved that You would bring Your powerful conviction into their lives and show them the love, the grace, and the mercy of God in Jesus Christ. In His name we pray, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
2nd Peter 2:9 “then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment,”
Taken from today's reading in "The One Year Bible”.
A little background, application, questions and a prayer:
Peter was dealing with the fact of false prophets in the church denying the 2nd coming and the ultimate judgement of God upon the ungodly Christ rejecting world. He gave several examples in this letter of previous judgements, and than spoke of the judgements to come.
But, He also wanted to emphasize the delivering power and grace God has for His children. And that would be us who believe in Jesus Christ.
1. The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations.
2nd Peter 2:9 “then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment,”
Of course there is nothing God does not know.
And, there is nothing God cannot do.
But it's so comforting to read what He can do for us.
God knows how to deliver the Godly out of temptation.
God knows when you are in a temptation or trial.
God cares about you in that temptation or trial.
God has a purpose for allowing you to be in that temptation or trial.
But, He also knows how to deliver You out of it.
He is the expert in all that He does.
He will deliver you.
He can do it, He does it everyday for his children.
He will do it for you.
2. The Lord knows how to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgement.
2nd Peter 2:9 “then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the unjust under punishment for the day of judgment,”
This other things is also something God knows how to do.
He is doing it right now as we read this devotional.
He has been doing it down through the ages.
He will continue to do it until time is no more.
He deals with the unjust in a just way.
He is reserving them under punishment for the day of judgment.
God does the reserving, and He will do the judging.
He would rather deliver them into eternal life than to judge them.
But he gives man a free will, and if men choose to reject Him, than they get what they want.
If man does not want God he will not have Him at the end of the day.
Some Questions:
1. Do you think much about what lies ahead?
2. Have you found God to be a faithful deliverer?
3. Do you need deliverance right now?
4. Do you believe He can deliver you?
5. Will you pray for the unsaved you know to repent before it's too late for them?
A Prayer:
Father, there is no one like You. You are above all, and no one can undo what You declare and decide. There is no one who has greater power than You do. We are weak in and of ourselves, but You are strong towards us. Be that today for us we pray. And we do pray for relatives, friends, people we know who are yet unsaved that You would bring Your powerful conviction into their lives and show them the love, the grace, and the mercy of God in Jesus Christ. In His name we pray, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Thursday, November 27, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT BEING BLESSED"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT BEING BLESSED"
NKJV Luke 6:20 Then He lifted up His eyes toward His disciples, and said: “Blessed are you poor, For yours is the kingdom of God.
NLT Luke 6:20 Then Jesus turned to his disciples and said, “God blesses you who are poor, for the Kingdom of God is given to you.
Some explanatory thoughts and application:
1. Jesus uses one of His favorite words in talking to His disciples. It's the word "Blessed”, meaning, oh how happy.
2. It is important to make sure we understand, that this statement about happiness, was given to those who were following Him, and not to the multitudes, i.e those who did not believe in Him, and were not following Him.
3. So, if you are a believer in Jesus Christ, following Him, then this word Blessed, or Happy is for you.
4. It's also important to understand what Jesus meant when He said poor. It could be translated, beggar, destitute, lowly, helpless, powerless to accomplish an end. And, lacking in anything. Jesus was not saying that poor (economically) people are blessed.
5. Rather, He is speaking to the person who has come to realize how poor and destitute they are of what it takes to be accepted by God, and go to heaven when they leave this world. In other words, He is speaking to the person who has truly come to realize that they are a sinner, and they have absolutely no hope of getting to heaven on their own. They realize their own sinfulness, and unrighteousness before God, and understand the judgement they deserve.
6. When a person comes this realization, they are then ready to call out to Jesus to save them, and then they become saved. Simple as that. When a person truly admits their sinfulness, turns to Jesus Christ, and believes in Him as Savior, and receives Him as their savior, calling upon Him to save them, then, they become saved.
7. The result of being saved is that theirs is the kingdom. They are now in God's kingdom, God's family, they are one of God's children, joint heirs with Jesus Christ.
6. And, that is why they are blessed. How much happier can a person be then to know that their sins are forgiven, and that they are now accepted by God through their faith in Jesus Christ, and will be with God when they leave this world.
A prayer:
Father, You are the dispenser of blessedness, of salvation, of forgiveness, of eternal life. We are the ones who are blessed as we receive Your grace, mercy and love in Christ. Thank You for sending Jesus to die for our sins, and thank You for opening our eyes to the truth of who we are, and of who You are, and of what You have done for us through Jesus Christ. We are grateful now, and will be forever and forever. Thank You Lord.
In Jesus' name,
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
NKJV Luke 6:20 Then He lifted up His eyes toward His disciples, and said: “Blessed are you poor, For yours is the kingdom of God.
NLT Luke 6:20 Then Jesus turned to his disciples and said, “God blesses you who are poor, for the Kingdom of God is given to you.
Some explanatory thoughts and application:
1. Jesus uses one of His favorite words in talking to His disciples. It's the word "Blessed”, meaning, oh how happy.
2. It is important to make sure we understand, that this statement about happiness, was given to those who were following Him, and not to the multitudes, i.e those who did not believe in Him, and were not following Him.
3. So, if you are a believer in Jesus Christ, following Him, then this word Blessed, or Happy is for you.
4. It's also important to understand what Jesus meant when He said poor. It could be translated, beggar, destitute, lowly, helpless, powerless to accomplish an end. And, lacking in anything. Jesus was not saying that poor (economically) people are blessed.
5. Rather, He is speaking to the person who has come to realize how poor and destitute they are of what it takes to be accepted by God, and go to heaven when they leave this world. In other words, He is speaking to the person who has truly come to realize that they are a sinner, and they have absolutely no hope of getting to heaven on their own. They realize their own sinfulness, and unrighteousness before God, and understand the judgement they deserve.
6. When a person comes this realization, they are then ready to call out to Jesus to save them, and then they become saved. Simple as that. When a person truly admits their sinfulness, turns to Jesus Christ, and believes in Him as Savior, and receives Him as their savior, calling upon Him to save them, then, they become saved.
7. The result of being saved is that theirs is the kingdom. They are now in God's kingdom, God's family, they are one of God's children, joint heirs with Jesus Christ.
6. And, that is why they are blessed. How much happier can a person be then to know that their sins are forgiven, and that they are now accepted by God through their faith in Jesus Christ, and will be with God when they leave this world.
A prayer:
Father, You are the dispenser of blessedness, of salvation, of forgiveness, of eternal life. We are the ones who are blessed as we receive Your grace, mercy and love in Christ. Thank You for sending Jesus to die for our sins, and thank You for opening our eyes to the truth of who we are, and of who You are, and of what You have done for us through Jesus Christ. We are grateful now, and will be forever and forever. Thank You Lord.
In Jesus' name,
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Tuesday, November 25, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT NOT RETURNING EVIL FOR EVIL, BUT RETURN A BLESSING INSTEAD"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT NOT RETURNING EVIL FOR EVIL, BUT RETURN A BLESSING INSTEAD"
1st Peter 3:8 “Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous;”
1st Peter 3:9 “not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.”
1st Peter 3:10 “For “He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit.”
1st Peter 3:11 “Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it.”
1st Peter 3:12 “For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.”
Taken from today's reading in "The One Year Bible”.
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
Peter, in this part of his letter, had been dealing with personal relationships.
Christians and the government, their employers, wives with disobedient husbands, and husbands with their wives.
Here he talks about Christian to Christian, and Christian to anyone one else.
It's about how to behave ourselves. And the blessing that God will bring.
1. We are not to return evil for evil, but rather blessing.
1st Peter 3:8 “Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous;”
1st Peter 3:9 “not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.”
Unity of mind is called for.
Compassion for one another is listed.
Loving one another as brothers.
Tenderheartedness and courteous attitudes.
And not retaliating.
Not returning evil for evil.
Nor reviling for reviling.
But on the contrary.
Return a blessing instead.
The person who follows this teaching is promised by the Lord to receive a blessing in their lives.
2. How to love life and see good days.
1st Peter 3:10 “For “He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit.”
1st Peter 3:11 “Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it.”
1st Peter 3:12 “For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.”
These verses tell us how to enjoy our lives.
If we want to enjoy our lives, than here's how to do it.
Refrain our tongues from evil.
Refrain our lips from speaking deceit.
Let us turn away from evil and do good.
Let us seek peace and pursue it.
3. Thank God He is watching us and is listening as we pray.
1st Peter 3:12 “For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.”
God, of course, can see us.
His eyes are on the righteous.
And His ears are open to our prayers.
But here's a sobering warning.
His face is against those who do evil.
God is open to good, but He is against evil.
Some Questions:
1. How do these verses strike you?
2. Aren't they loaded with lots of practical and meaningful instruction?
3. Can you see clearly what to do and how to act? And what not to do, and how not to act?
4. God promises us a good and blessed life if we follow His ways.
5. Can we take a moment to just ponder what has been said here?
6. How is God showing you to apply this in your life right now?
A Prayer:
Father, thank You for the vast amount of loving instruction You give us in Your Word. Please help us to take the time to read and think about what You have to say to us. I know for me sometimes it's hard to just slow down and simply concentrate on Your Word, and I'm sure I speak for many who face the same challenges. But when we do take the time to feed our souls, my what a nourishing meal it is.
Thank You, Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
1st Peter 3:8 “Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous;”
1st Peter 3:9 “not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.”
1st Peter 3:10 “For “He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit.”
1st Peter 3:11 “Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it.”
1st Peter 3:12 “For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.”
Taken from today's reading in "The One Year Bible”.
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
Peter, in this part of his letter, had been dealing with personal relationships.
Christians and the government, their employers, wives with disobedient husbands, and husbands with their wives.
Here he talks about Christian to Christian, and Christian to anyone one else.
It's about how to behave ourselves. And the blessing that God will bring.
1. We are not to return evil for evil, but rather blessing.
1st Peter 3:8 “Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous;”
1st Peter 3:9 “not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.”
Unity of mind is called for.
Compassion for one another is listed.
Loving one another as brothers.
Tenderheartedness and courteous attitudes.
And not retaliating.
Not returning evil for evil.
Nor reviling for reviling.
But on the contrary.
Return a blessing instead.
The person who follows this teaching is promised by the Lord to receive a blessing in their lives.
2. How to love life and see good days.
1st Peter 3:10 “For “He who would love life And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips from speaking deceit.”
1st Peter 3:11 “Let him turn away from evil and do good; Let him seek peace and pursue it.”
1st Peter 3:12 “For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.”
These verses tell us how to enjoy our lives.
If we want to enjoy our lives, than here's how to do it.
Refrain our tongues from evil.
Refrain our lips from speaking deceit.
Let us turn away from evil and do good.
Let us seek peace and pursue it.
3. Thank God He is watching us and is listening as we pray.
1st Peter 3:12 “For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, And His ears are open to their prayers; But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.”
God, of course, can see us.
His eyes are on the righteous.
And His ears are open to our prayers.
But here's a sobering warning.
His face is against those who do evil.
God is open to good, but He is against evil.
Some Questions:
1. How do these verses strike you?
2. Aren't they loaded with lots of practical and meaningful instruction?
3. Can you see clearly what to do and how to act? And what not to do, and how not to act?
4. God promises us a good and blessed life if we follow His ways.
5. Can we take a moment to just ponder what has been said here?
6. How is God showing you to apply this in your life right now?
A Prayer:
Father, thank You for the vast amount of loving instruction You give us in Your Word. Please help us to take the time to read and think about what You have to say to us. I know for me sometimes it's hard to just slow down and simply concentrate on Your Word, and I'm sure I speak for many who face the same challenges. But when we do take the time to feed our souls, my what a nourishing meal it is.
Thank You, Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Monday, November 24, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SINS"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SINS"
Proverbs 28:13 “He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”
Taken from today's reading in "The One Year Bible”.
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
Proverbs, God's Wisdom for daily living. Here the Lord tells us two very important truths about sins.
As the Bible often says, "Take Heed”, here is something to take heed to.
1. We are capable of covering our own sins.
Proverbs 28:13 “He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”
This is of course speaking of trying to cover our sins.
We can't really cover them from God.
Nothing is hidden from his sight.
Covering here means to keep them, and not forsake them.
This is a result of our own choice.
It's not a good choice to make.
2. If we cover our own sins we will not prosper.
Proverbs 28:13 “He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”
Here we have the consequence of covering our sins.
We will not prosper.
This simply means things will not go well for us.
God wants us to prosper, or experience His blessing.
But covering our sins will keep us from prospering.
3. We are also capable of confessing and forsaking our sins.
Proverbs 28:13 “He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”
Here is the other side of the proverbial coin.
We don't have to cover our sins.
We can confess them, or admit them to God.
We can also forsake them, or leave them, and stop sinning (by His grace and power).
4. If we confess and forsake our sins we will have mercy.
Proverbs 28:13 “He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”
If we choose to confess our sins, there is a good consequence.
That consequence is the mercy of God.
Being honest with the Lord opens the door for His mercy in our lives.
Not punishment, but mercy.
That's a promise from the Lord.
Some Questions:
1. How did this verse strike you today?
2. How did this verse speak to you today?
3. How is God directing you today through this verse?
4. Isn't it wonderful of God to give us His wisdom for our lives?
5. And isn't it wonderful that He gives us mercy?
A Prayer:
Father, thank You for laying out the truth for us so plainly and clearly. We need Your Wisdom day by day. We really appreciate it, Father.
Our problem is, that while we believe You, we don't always obey You. Would You help us to be more consistent in both our faith and our obedience. Thank You, Father
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Proverbs 28:13 “He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”
Taken from today's reading in "The One Year Bible”.
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
Proverbs, God's Wisdom for daily living. Here the Lord tells us two very important truths about sins.
As the Bible often says, "Take Heed”, here is something to take heed to.
1. We are capable of covering our own sins.
Proverbs 28:13 “He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”
This is of course speaking of trying to cover our sins.
We can't really cover them from God.
Nothing is hidden from his sight.
Covering here means to keep them, and not forsake them.
This is a result of our own choice.
It's not a good choice to make.
2. If we cover our own sins we will not prosper.
Proverbs 28:13 “He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”
Here we have the consequence of covering our sins.
We will not prosper.
This simply means things will not go well for us.
God wants us to prosper, or experience His blessing.
But covering our sins will keep us from prospering.
3. We are also capable of confessing and forsaking our sins.
Proverbs 28:13 “He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”
Here is the other side of the proverbial coin.
We don't have to cover our sins.
We can confess them, or admit them to God.
We can also forsake them, or leave them, and stop sinning (by His grace and power).
4. If we confess and forsake our sins we will have mercy.
Proverbs 28:13 “He who covers his sins will not prosper, But whoever confesses and forsakes them will have mercy.”
If we choose to confess our sins, there is a good consequence.
That consequence is the mercy of God.
Being honest with the Lord opens the door for His mercy in our lives.
Not punishment, but mercy.
That's a promise from the Lord.
Some Questions:
1. How did this verse strike you today?
2. How did this verse speak to you today?
3. How is God directing you today through this verse?
4. Isn't it wonderful of God to give us His wisdom for our lives?
5. And isn't it wonderful that He gives us mercy?
A Prayer:
Father, thank You for laying out the truth for us so plainly and clearly. We need Your Wisdom day by day. We really appreciate it, Father.
Our problem is, that while we believe You, we don't always obey You. Would You help us to be more consistent in both our faith and our obedience. Thank You, Father
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Saturday, November 22, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT AN UNDERSTANDING AND MEDITATION"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT AN UNDERSTANDING AND MEDITATION"
Psalm 119:27 “Make me understand the way of Your precepts; So shall I meditate on Your wondrous works.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible:
This 119th Psalm, has 150 verses in it.
They are divided up into little paragraphs with 8 verses in each paragraph.
Except for one of the 150 verses, each verse mentions God's Word in some fashion.
This verse is both a prayer and a plan by the author.
May we have what he had.
1. God can make us understand the way of His precepts.
Psalm 119:27 “Make me understand the way of Your precepts; So shall I meditate on Your wondrous works.”
As mentioned, this is a prayer.
It's a prayer for God to give understanding
It's as if the writer is saying, "help me understand the meaning of Your commandments”.
That's really what's being said here.
We can pray along the same line.
We can ask God for understanding.
And, we can be sure He will give it to us.
He delights to help us understand His Word.
He wants to communicate with us.
2. We can meditate on all of God's wondrous works.
Psalm 119:27 “Make me understand the way of Your precepts; So shall I meditate on Your wondrous works.”
The value of having God give understanding is what we can do with it.
Once God has shown us something in His Word, then we can meditate on it.
Meditation means to ponder, to consider to think upon over and over again.
God's Word reveals to us His wondrous works and miracles.
We can think about God what God has done.
For example when taking a walk, direct your thoughts to His Word.
Think about what You read, or heard from the Bible.
It's amazing what joy and blessing it will bring to Your soul.
Questions:
1. Can you think of anything more worthy of your thoughts than God and His Word?
2. Do you know that God wants to give you understanding about His Word?
3. And, have you ever really tried to think deeply and consistently about what God has shown you?
4. Will you consider trying that this coming week?
5. Will you take clear mental or written notes of what you hear from your pastor, or read from your Bible?
6. Will you then take the time later to really think upon what God has shown you, and said to you?
A Prayer:
Father, Your Word is even placed above Your name. Your Word is life. Your Word is the food for our souls. Thank You for the Bread of Life.
Thank You for Jesus Christ who is the bread of life. And, thank You that You will give us understanding when we ask for it. And thank You for tremendous unrivaled benefit we derive by thinking upon Your Word. It fills and feeds and delights and guides, and comforts our soul.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Psalm 119:27 “Make me understand the way of Your precepts; So shall I meditate on Your wondrous works.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible:
This 119th Psalm, has 150 verses in it.
They are divided up into little paragraphs with 8 verses in each paragraph.
Except for one of the 150 verses, each verse mentions God's Word in some fashion.
This verse is both a prayer and a plan by the author.
May we have what he had.
1. God can make us understand the way of His precepts.
Psalm 119:27 “Make me understand the way of Your precepts; So shall I meditate on Your wondrous works.”
As mentioned, this is a prayer.
It's a prayer for God to give understanding
It's as if the writer is saying, "help me understand the meaning of Your commandments”.
That's really what's being said here.
We can pray along the same line.
We can ask God for understanding.
And, we can be sure He will give it to us.
He delights to help us understand His Word.
He wants to communicate with us.
2. We can meditate on all of God's wondrous works.
Psalm 119:27 “Make me understand the way of Your precepts; So shall I meditate on Your wondrous works.”
The value of having God give understanding is what we can do with it.
Once God has shown us something in His Word, then we can meditate on it.
Meditation means to ponder, to consider to think upon over and over again.
God's Word reveals to us His wondrous works and miracles.
We can think about God what God has done.
For example when taking a walk, direct your thoughts to His Word.
Think about what You read, or heard from the Bible.
It's amazing what joy and blessing it will bring to Your soul.
Questions:
1. Can you think of anything more worthy of your thoughts than God and His Word?
2. Do you know that God wants to give you understanding about His Word?
3. And, have you ever really tried to think deeply and consistently about what God has shown you?
4. Will you consider trying that this coming week?
5. Will you take clear mental or written notes of what you hear from your pastor, or read from your Bible?
6. Will you then take the time later to really think upon what God has shown you, and said to you?
A Prayer:
Father, Your Word is even placed above Your name. Your Word is life. Your Word is the food for our souls. Thank You for the Bread of Life.
Thank You for Jesus Christ who is the bread of life. And, thank You that You will give us understanding when we ask for it. And thank You for tremendous unrivaled benefit we derive by thinking upon Your Word. It fills and feeds and delights and guides, and comforts our soul.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Friday, November 21, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE BLESSING OF PATIENCE"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE BLESSING OF PATIENCE"
James 5:7 “Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain.”
James 5:8 “You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.”
James 5:9 “Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!”
James 5:10 “My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience.”
James 5:11 “Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord--that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible:
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Here, of course, we see the Apostle James who was the half brother of Jesus talking to us about the value and importance of being patient.
He has many things to say about patience, and we would be well served to pray for understanding and application of God's Word about patience in our own lives. May God cause His face to shine upon you and give you peace.
1. We are simply instructed to be patient until Jesus returns.
James 5:7 “Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain.”
How simple is this teaching.
God says to be patient.
Patience means to simply hang in there, stay put, don't run off, but remain under, and in whatever it is that God has you in, and is doing in your life.
We are to pursue patience until Jesus comes back for us.
He is coming back, He has promised that to us.
We are given the example of a farmer to help us understand patience.
Farmers begin their work of planting, and then they wait.
They wait patiently.
They wait for the early and later rain.
So it takes time for them to finish their work.
What a great example for us to help us understand patience.
2. We are not only to be patient but also to establish our hearts.
James 5:8 “You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.”
Along with being patient we are to establish our hearts.
This means, to take courage.
We can take courage because God the judge is standing at the door.
3. We need to avoid grumbling against one another.
James 5:9 “Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!”
This is pretty simple isn't it?
Do not grumble, complain, etc, etc.
Why? Because the Lord is standing at the door watching. .
4. We have the prophets as an example of suffering and patience.
James 5:10 “My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience.”
We are given a second example of patience, and of suffering.
We have the prophets.
They are all through the Old Testament in great detail.
Detailed also for us in Hebrews 11.
They spoke in the name of the Lord, that was their assignment.
And they suffered for serving God.
But they were patient.
So, in doing the will of God it was not easy for the prophets.
But they were patient as they went along.
They are an example for us to be patient in our sufferings as we do the will of God.
5. We have heard of the patience of Job.
James 5:11 “Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord--that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.”
One more example we are probably a little more familiar with, "Job”.
We do count them blessed who endure.
Are you not yourself blessed as you endure a trial and a difficult time, of course you are.
God is reinforcing that truth here. Be patient and be blessed.
We have heard of the perseverance of Job.
Yes we have, that's for sure.
We have also seen what happened at the end of Job's story.
We see what God intended through all of Job's trials and sufferings.
We have seen in the book of Job two things about the Lord.
He is very compassionate. Not just compassionate, but very compassionate.
He is also merciful.
Some Questions:
1. Are you going through a hard time at this time?
2. Patience is what God will give you and what God calls you to be in the trials of life.
3. Are you familiar with these verses?
4. Will you read them again quickly and then read them again a little more slowly?
5. Do you believe that these truths are for you also?
6. Will you ask God for patience?
7. Do You believe He will give it to you?
A Prayer:
Our Father in heaven, who is so in love with His children here on earth. Before we know it, we will be face to face with You in glory. To be honest, Lord, we can hardly wait. Only You know when each of us will arrive in heaven. But we are promised to arrive.
But down here, Lord, we need so much help. You are the giver of all good gifts. Patience in a sense is a gift, it's actually part of Love, the fruit of the Spirit. May we see this aspect of love in our lives, Lord. It's what You call us to. In Jesus’ name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
James 5:7 “Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain.”
James 5:8 “You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.”
James 5:9 “Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!”
James 5:10 “My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience.”
James 5:11 “Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord--that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible:
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Here, of course, we see the Apostle James who was the half brother of Jesus talking to us about the value and importance of being patient.
He has many things to say about patience, and we would be well served to pray for understanding and application of God's Word about patience in our own lives. May God cause His face to shine upon you and give you peace.
1. We are simply instructed to be patient until Jesus returns.
James 5:7 “Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain.”
How simple is this teaching.
God says to be patient.
Patience means to simply hang in there, stay put, don't run off, but remain under, and in whatever it is that God has you in, and is doing in your life.
We are to pursue patience until Jesus comes back for us.
He is coming back, He has promised that to us.
We are given the example of a farmer to help us understand patience.
Farmers begin their work of planting, and then they wait.
They wait patiently.
They wait for the early and later rain.
So it takes time for them to finish their work.
What a great example for us to help us understand patience.
2. We are not only to be patient but also to establish our hearts.
James 5:8 “You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand.”
Along with being patient we are to establish our hearts.
This means, to take courage.
We can take courage because God the judge is standing at the door.
3. We need to avoid grumbling against one another.
James 5:9 “Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door!”
This is pretty simple isn't it?
Do not grumble, complain, etc, etc.
Why? Because the Lord is standing at the door watching. .
4. We have the prophets as an example of suffering and patience.
James 5:10 “My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience.”
We are given a second example of patience, and of suffering.
We have the prophets.
They are all through the Old Testament in great detail.
Detailed also for us in Hebrews 11.
They spoke in the name of the Lord, that was their assignment.
And they suffered for serving God.
But they were patient.
So, in doing the will of God it was not easy for the prophets.
But they were patient as they went along.
They are an example for us to be patient in our sufferings as we do the will of God.
5. We have heard of the patience of Job.
James 5:11 “Indeed we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord--that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.”
One more example we are probably a little more familiar with, "Job”.
We do count them blessed who endure.
Are you not yourself blessed as you endure a trial and a difficult time, of course you are.
God is reinforcing that truth here. Be patient and be blessed.
We have heard of the perseverance of Job.
Yes we have, that's for sure.
We have also seen what happened at the end of Job's story.
We see what God intended through all of Job's trials and sufferings.
We have seen in the book of Job two things about the Lord.
He is very compassionate. Not just compassionate, but very compassionate.
He is also merciful.
Some Questions:
1. Are you going through a hard time at this time?
2. Patience is what God will give you and what God calls you to be in the trials of life.
3. Are you familiar with these verses?
4. Will you read them again quickly and then read them again a little more slowly?
5. Do you believe that these truths are for you also?
6. Will you ask God for patience?
7. Do You believe He will give it to you?
A Prayer:
Our Father in heaven, who is so in love with His children here on earth. Before we know it, we will be face to face with You in glory. To be honest, Lord, we can hardly wait. Only You know when each of us will arrive in heaven. But we are promised to arrive.
But down here, Lord, we need so much help. You are the giver of all good gifts. Patience in a sense is a gift, it's actually part of Love, the fruit of the Spirit. May we see this aspect of love in our lives, Lord. It's what You call us to. In Jesus’ name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Thursday, November 20, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT HUMILITY AND GRACE"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT HUMILITY AND GRACE"
James 4:6 “But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.””
James 4:7 “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
James 4:8 “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
James 4:9 “Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom.”
James 4:10 “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible.
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Man has so many problems, and they come from the problem of sin, and the lustful and selfish desires that dwell within our fallen natures.
But God has all the answers to all of our problems.
This section of James deals with those answers, what they are, and how we receive them..
1. God gives more grace.
James 4:6 “But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.””
Here we are told what God gives.
He gives more grace.
We have many problems, and many sins.
But God has and gives more grace than our problems and sins.
2. God resists the proud.
James 4:6 “But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.””
Now we see how we access or how we can receive what God has for us.
It's not hard to do.
It's actually very simple.
It does take a decision of our will
God resists the proud.
But He gives grace to the humble.
That's the answer right there.
It's called humility.
To bow our hearts and lives before God.
3. Submit to God and resist the devil.
James 4:7 “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
4. Draw near to God.
James 4:8 “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
Another wonderful promise is given us here.
If we draw near to God, He will draw near to us.
How blessed we can be by simply drawing near to Him.
Also, God calls us to cleanse our hands.
If we are doing things that are dirty, we ought to stop doing those things.
We can cleanse ourselves by repenting of what we were doing.
Asking God to forgive us.
This cleansing includes our hearts or our inner life.
So, both on the outside, and on the inside, God calls us to be clean or holy, or set apart to Him.
5. Lament and mourn it's good for us.
James 4:9 “Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom.”
This is the pathway to blessing.
It has to do with dealing properly with our sin.
Sin is silly and destructive.
We are to weepand lament and mourn over our sins.
Let our laughter be turned to mourning.
Let our joy be turned to gloom.
In other words as the NLT put it: “Let there be tears for the wrong things you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy.”
6. Humble ourselves before God.
James 4:10 “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.”
Again from the NLT: “When you bow down before the Lord and admit your dependence on him, he will lift you up and give you honor.”
Humility is a great virtue to pursue.
Pride is a dangerous attitude to maintain.
Leave pride.
Pursue humility.
It will bring God's blessing.
Some Questions:
1. Do you know the true meaning of grace?
2. It means God's unmerited, undeserved favor.
3. Have you ever read what God resists and what He is drawn to?
4. Would you take another look at these few short verses?
5. Will you prayerfully consider your own life at this moment in relation to what is said in these verses?
A Prayer:
Father, You are the God of all grace, and we thank You that You give grace to us, for we need it desperately.
You are the God who resists pride, but You give grace to the humble. So, Lord, would You please teach us to forsake our pride, and to pursue humility that we might enjoy Your "More Grace”.
We thank You that there is a way out of the sins and problems we create, and a way into the untold blessings of God.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
James 4:6 “But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.””
James 4:7 “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
James 4:8 “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
James 4:9 “Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom.”
James 4:10 “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible.
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Man has so many problems, and they come from the problem of sin, and the lustful and selfish desires that dwell within our fallen natures.
But God has all the answers to all of our problems.
This section of James deals with those answers, what they are, and how we receive them..
1. God gives more grace.
James 4:6 “But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.””
Here we are told what God gives.
He gives more grace.
We have many problems, and many sins.
But God has and gives more grace than our problems and sins.
2. God resists the proud.
James 4:6 “But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.””
Now we see how we access or how we can receive what God has for us.
It's not hard to do.
It's actually very simple.
It does take a decision of our will
God resists the proud.
But He gives grace to the humble.
That's the answer right there.
It's called humility.
To bow our hearts and lives before God.
3. Submit to God and resist the devil.
James 4:7 “Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you.”
4. Draw near to God.
James 4:8 “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded.”
Another wonderful promise is given us here.
If we draw near to God, He will draw near to us.
How blessed we can be by simply drawing near to Him.
Also, God calls us to cleanse our hands.
If we are doing things that are dirty, we ought to stop doing those things.
We can cleanse ourselves by repenting of what we were doing.
Asking God to forgive us.
This cleansing includes our hearts or our inner life.
So, both on the outside, and on the inside, God calls us to be clean or holy, or set apart to Him.
5. Lament and mourn it's good for us.
James 4:9 “Lament and mourn and weep! Let your laughter be turned to mourning and your joy to gloom.”
This is the pathway to blessing.
It has to do with dealing properly with our sin.
Sin is silly and destructive.
We are to weepand lament and mourn over our sins.
Let our laughter be turned to mourning.
Let our joy be turned to gloom.
In other words as the NLT put it: “Let there be tears for the wrong things you have done. Let there be sorrow and deep grief. Let there be sadness instead of laughter, and gloom instead of joy.”
6. Humble ourselves before God.
James 4:10 “Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up.”
Again from the NLT: “When you bow down before the Lord and admit your dependence on him, he will lift you up and give you honor.”
Humility is a great virtue to pursue.
Pride is a dangerous attitude to maintain.
Leave pride.
Pursue humility.
It will bring God's blessing.
Some Questions:
1. Do you know the true meaning of grace?
2. It means God's unmerited, undeserved favor.
3. Have you ever read what God resists and what He is drawn to?
4. Would you take another look at these few short verses?
5. Will you prayerfully consider your own life at this moment in relation to what is said in these verses?
A Prayer:
Father, You are the God of all grace, and we thank You that You give grace to us, for we need it desperately.
You are the God who resists pride, but You give grace to the humble. So, Lord, would You please teach us to forsake our pride, and to pursue humility that we might enjoy Your "More Grace”.
We thank You that there is a way out of the sins and problems we create, and a way into the untold blessings of God.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S WISDOM AND PEACEMAKERS"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S WISDOM AND PEACEMAKERS"
James 3:17 “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.”
James 3:18 “Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible.
Some explanatory thoughts, application, and a prayer:
These two verses help us know what God's wisdom looks like. It's in contrast to the wisdom from the devil. Which is found in the verses just before these two. May the Lord bless us all with a simple ability to know when we have or don't have God's wisdom.
1. Wisdom does come from heaven.
James 3:17 “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.”
Earlier in the first chapter of James we were promised that God would give wisdom to those who ask Him for it.
Here in this third chapter James has some more to say about God's wisdom.
He describes it as "the wisdom that is from above”.
Isn't that a beautiful picture in your minds eye.
God is wisdom
Jesus is made unto us wisdom.
The Bible is God's wisdom.
Wisdom comes down from heaven.
Our Father sends His wisdom all the way from heaven to our hearts.
2. Wisdom from heaven is described in great detail for us.
James 3:17 “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.”
So, here is the detailed description of God's wisdom.
It is pure.
It is peaceable or peace loving
It is gentle at all times.
It is willing to yield to others.
It is full of mercy.
It is full of good deeds.
It shows no partiality.
It is always sincere.
That's a true Godly measurement to use to know if we have God's wisdom or have been tricked into devilish wisdom.
3. A word about peacemakers.
James 3:18 “Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.”
Righteousness has fruit.
Righteousness is sown in peace.
Righteousness comes through those who make peace.
Peacemakers are the people who plant seeds of peace.
Peacemakers are also the people who reap a harvest of goodness.
Some Questions:
1. Who does not need wisdom?
2. I can't think of anyone can you?
3. Isn't it wonderful that God promises to give it to us?
4. And, isn't it wonderful that He helps us know what it looks like when we have it?
A Prayer:
Father in heaven, where we will one day be. We need Your wisdom now here on earth. Thank You for promising to give it to those who ask in faith, and thank You for showing us in detail what it looks like. We can get very confused down here. But, You can help get us on the right path. And when You have us on the right path, then we can be those who sow seeds of peace and those who reap a harvest of blessing and goodness. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
James 3:17 “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.”
James 3:18 “Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible.
Some explanatory thoughts, application, and a prayer:
These two verses help us know what God's wisdom looks like. It's in contrast to the wisdom from the devil. Which is found in the verses just before these two. May the Lord bless us all with a simple ability to know when we have or don't have God's wisdom.
1. Wisdom does come from heaven.
James 3:17 “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.”
Earlier in the first chapter of James we were promised that God would give wisdom to those who ask Him for it.
Here in this third chapter James has some more to say about God's wisdom.
He describes it as "the wisdom that is from above”.
Isn't that a beautiful picture in your minds eye.
God is wisdom
Jesus is made unto us wisdom.
The Bible is God's wisdom.
Wisdom comes down from heaven.
Our Father sends His wisdom all the way from heaven to our hearts.
2. Wisdom from heaven is described in great detail for us.
James 3:17 “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.”
So, here is the detailed description of God's wisdom.
It is pure.
It is peaceable or peace loving
It is gentle at all times.
It is willing to yield to others.
It is full of mercy.
It is full of good deeds.
It shows no partiality.
It is always sincere.
That's a true Godly measurement to use to know if we have God's wisdom or have been tricked into devilish wisdom.
3. A word about peacemakers.
James 3:18 “Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.”
Righteousness has fruit.
Righteousness is sown in peace.
Righteousness comes through those who make peace.
Peacemakers are the people who plant seeds of peace.
Peacemakers are also the people who reap a harvest of goodness.
Some Questions:
1. Who does not need wisdom?
2. I can't think of anyone can you?
3. Isn't it wonderful that God promises to give it to us?
4. And, isn't it wonderful that He helps us know what it looks like when we have it?
A Prayer:
Father in heaven, where we will one day be. We need Your wisdom now here on earth. Thank You for promising to give it to those who ask in faith, and thank You for showing us in detail what it looks like. We can get very confused down here. But, You can help get us on the right path. And when You have us on the right path, then we can be those who sow seeds of peace and those who reap a harvest of blessing and goodness. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Tuesday, November 18, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT OUR EARS, TONGUES AND WILLS"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT OUR EARS, TONGUES AND WILLS"
James 1:19 “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;”
James 1:20 “for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
James 1:21 “Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.”
Taken from today's reading in "The One Year Bible”.
Some explanatory thoughts, applications and a prayer:
This is, of course, more simple practical teaching from our Lord on how to live our lives in Christ.
This is an important part of James because it deals with several parts of our lives that can be used in a way that either builds up or tears down.
1. We are to be swift to hear.
James 1:19 “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath”
Here we are being instructed about being quick to do something.
That something has to do with our ears.
We are to be swift to hear what God has to say to us.
Or to put it another way, "We are to be quick to listen to God”.
In fact, it sure wouldn't hurt to be quick to listen to anyone speaking to us.
But for sure it's good and helpful to be ready to listen to our Lord.
God has so much to say to us.
2. We are to be slow to speak.
James 1:19 “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;”
Now on to our tongues or our speech.
We are to be slow to speak.
Listen more carefully, and speak more slowly.
How many times have we wished we had not said what we just said?
This is a good thing for us to pray about.
Asking the Lord to help us be more careful to think before we speak, and not be in such a rush to talk.
3. We are to slow to wrath.
James 1:19 “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;”
James 1:20 “for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
Now on to another subject entirely.
Wrath or anger.
Simply put, God is telling us to be slow to get angry.
It's so easy to get angry.
Even over the simplest and smallest of things.
But, here God is saying be slow to get angry.
Take your time with your thinking and your heart
Try to not let anger just well up in you and come out.
How many times have we had to say "I'm sorry”?
If we are more attentive to this teaching, we will not be so quick to get angry.
There is a reason given to us about this.
It's because anger can never make things right in God's sight.
4. We are to use our wills to lay aside sin, and receive God's Word into our hearts.
James 1:21 “Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.”
This has to do with putting sin out of our lives.
Laying aside means to get rid of.
Filthiness does not need any definition.
We all know filth when we see it have a part in it.
So, God says lay it aside.
What is "overflow of wickedness" mean?
It means evil.
So, filth and evil have no place in our lives.
It's not pleasing to God to allow them to remain in our lives.
Finally, we are to receive God's Word into our hearts
We are to humbly accept the message that God has for us from His Word.
Some Questions:
1. It's not too hard to relate to these verses is it?
2. Our ears, tongues and hearts are what we are made of if you will.
3. Let's ask the Lord to help us take His instruction and put it into practice.
A Prayer:
Heavenly Father, our Comforter and Helper, please help us to assimilate these verses and put them into practice.
These are powerful parts of our lives and powerful verses from Your Word.
We desire to honor You and need lot's of grace and help to do so.
Will You please help us, Lord?
In Jesus’ name we pray amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
James 1:19 “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;”
James 1:20 “for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
James 1:21 “Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.”
Taken from today's reading in "The One Year Bible”.
Some explanatory thoughts, applications and a prayer:
This is, of course, more simple practical teaching from our Lord on how to live our lives in Christ.
This is an important part of James because it deals with several parts of our lives that can be used in a way that either builds up or tears down.
1. We are to be swift to hear.
James 1:19 “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath”
Here we are being instructed about being quick to do something.
That something has to do with our ears.
We are to be swift to hear what God has to say to us.
Or to put it another way, "We are to be quick to listen to God”.
In fact, it sure wouldn't hurt to be quick to listen to anyone speaking to us.
But for sure it's good and helpful to be ready to listen to our Lord.
God has so much to say to us.
2. We are to be slow to speak.
James 1:19 “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;”
Now on to our tongues or our speech.
We are to be slow to speak.
Listen more carefully, and speak more slowly.
How many times have we wished we had not said what we just said?
This is a good thing for us to pray about.
Asking the Lord to help us be more careful to think before we speak, and not be in such a rush to talk.
3. We are to slow to wrath.
James 1:19 “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath;”
James 1:20 “for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
Now on to another subject entirely.
Wrath or anger.
Simply put, God is telling us to be slow to get angry.
It's so easy to get angry.
Even over the simplest and smallest of things.
But, here God is saying be slow to get angry.
Take your time with your thinking and your heart
Try to not let anger just well up in you and come out.
How many times have we had to say "I'm sorry”?
If we are more attentive to this teaching, we will not be so quick to get angry.
There is a reason given to us about this.
It's because anger can never make things right in God's sight.
4. We are to use our wills to lay aside sin, and receive God's Word into our hearts.
James 1:21 “Therefore lay aside all filthiness and overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.”
This has to do with putting sin out of our lives.
Laying aside means to get rid of.
Filthiness does not need any definition.
We all know filth when we see it have a part in it.
So, God says lay it aside.
What is "overflow of wickedness" mean?
It means evil.
So, filth and evil have no place in our lives.
It's not pleasing to God to allow them to remain in our lives.
Finally, we are to receive God's Word into our hearts
We are to humbly accept the message that God has for us from His Word.
Some Questions:
1. It's not too hard to relate to these verses is it?
2. Our ears, tongues and hearts are what we are made of if you will.
3. Let's ask the Lord to help us take His instruction and put it into practice.
A Prayer:
Heavenly Father, our Comforter and Helper, please help us to assimilate these verses and put them into practice.
These are powerful parts of our lives and powerful verses from Your Word.
We desire to honor You and need lot's of grace and help to do so.
Will You please help us, Lord?
In Jesus’ name we pray amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Monday, November 17, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOING THROUGH TRIALS"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOING THROUGH TRIALS"
James 1:2 “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,”
James 1:3 “knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.”
James 1:4 “But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
Taken from today's reading in "The One Year Bible”.
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
James is a very practical book. In fact, it's interesting that the name of Jesus is not even mentioned in the five chapters.
However, it's all about how to walk with Jesus Christ. It covers so many subjects. It's kind of like a New Testament version of Proverbs.
Today in these two verses, we learn about trials.
1. Trials come to christians.
James 1:2 “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,”
There is such joy when one gets saved.
But not long after, a trial or difficulty will come into their lives.
This is always a surprise.
But christians soon learn that trials come to believers, and God intends good through them.
2. Trials are to be welcomed by Christians.
James 1:2 “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,”
Notice what is said.
Count it all joy.
Not be joyful that there is pain or difficulty.
But rather take joy knowing what God is going to do through the trial.
In other words, take the attitude of letting the trial be an opportunity for joy.
Hang in there, God is going to bless you through the trial.
That's why you can welcome them with joy, and count them as joy.
3. Trials can come in a variety of ways.
James 1:2 “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,”
Just as no two snowflakes are alike, neither are any two trials exactly alike.
Trials come in various shapes, sizes, and colors if you will.
God knows exactly what trial will fit the need in our life to help us grow.
4. Trials are allowed by God for a purpose.
James 1:3 “knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.”
What happens is this.
Your faith is being tested and is being given a chance to grow.
That's the goal God has through trials.
They start out with difficulty, but they end up with a faith that has grown.
5. Trials are an opportunity for us to cooperate with God as we go through the trial.
James 1:4 “But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
Here's our part.
God chooses the time and the trial or testing of our faith.
What He simply wants us to do is to trust Him, and be patient as He works in our life through the trial
You can see from the verse that it is our faith that is being tested.
Part of the test is simply letting God do what He wants to do.
Questions:
1. Are you going through a trial right now?
2. Have you just come through a trial recently?
3. Can you remember what happened the last time you went through a trial?
4. What did the Lord do in your life through that trial?
5. If you are in a trial, I encourage you to let God do what He wants to do.
A Prayer:
Father, how kind, loving, and gracious You are. Thank You that You want to grow us up in our faith.
We don't like it when a trial comes, but once we realize what is happening then we know, okay, God is at work, and I want to work with Him, and let Him do whatever he wants to do. Father, may that be the prayer and attitude of our hearts. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
James 1:2 “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,”
James 1:3 “knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.”
James 1:4 “But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
Taken from today's reading in "The One Year Bible”.
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
James is a very practical book. In fact, it's interesting that the name of Jesus is not even mentioned in the five chapters.
However, it's all about how to walk with Jesus Christ. It covers so many subjects. It's kind of like a New Testament version of Proverbs.
Today in these two verses, we learn about trials.
1. Trials come to christians.
James 1:2 “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,”
There is such joy when one gets saved.
But not long after, a trial or difficulty will come into their lives.
This is always a surprise.
But christians soon learn that trials come to believers, and God intends good through them.
2. Trials are to be welcomed by Christians.
James 1:2 “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,”
Notice what is said.
Count it all joy.
Not be joyful that there is pain or difficulty.
But rather take joy knowing what God is going to do through the trial.
In other words, take the attitude of letting the trial be an opportunity for joy.
Hang in there, God is going to bless you through the trial.
That's why you can welcome them with joy, and count them as joy.
3. Trials can come in a variety of ways.
James 1:2 “My brethren, count it all joy when you fall into various trials,”
Just as no two snowflakes are alike, neither are any two trials exactly alike.
Trials come in various shapes, sizes, and colors if you will.
God knows exactly what trial will fit the need in our life to help us grow.
4. Trials are allowed by God for a purpose.
James 1:3 “knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience.”
What happens is this.
Your faith is being tested and is being given a chance to grow.
That's the goal God has through trials.
They start out with difficulty, but they end up with a faith that has grown.
5. Trials are an opportunity for us to cooperate with God as we go through the trial.
James 1:4 “But let patience have its perfect work, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.”
Here's our part.
God chooses the time and the trial or testing of our faith.
What He simply wants us to do is to trust Him, and be patient as He works in our life through the trial
You can see from the verse that it is our faith that is being tested.
Part of the test is simply letting God do what He wants to do.
Questions:
1. Are you going through a trial right now?
2. Have you just come through a trial recently?
3. Can you remember what happened the last time you went through a trial?
4. What did the Lord do in your life through that trial?
5. If you are in a trial, I encourage you to let God do what He wants to do.
A Prayer:
Father, how kind, loving, and gracious You are. Thank You that You want to grow us up in our faith.
We don't like it when a trial comes, but once we realize what is happening then we know, okay, God is at work, and I want to work with Him, and let Him do whatever he wants to do. Father, may that be the prayer and attitude of our hearts. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Thursday, November 13, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT FAITH IN ACTION"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT FAITH IN ACTION"
Hebrews 11:24 “It was by faith that Moses, when he grew up, refused to be treated as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter.”
Hebrews 11:25 “He chose to share the oppression of God’s people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin.”
Hebrews 11:26 “He thought it was better to suffer for the sake of the Messiah than to own the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to the great reward that God would give him.”
Hebrews 11:27 “It was by faith that Moses left the land of Egypt. He was not afraid of the king. Moses kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible.”
Taken from today's reading in "The One Year Bible”.
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
In this 11th chapter of Hebrews, we have what has been called "The Hall of Faith".
In it we have many, many examples of faith in action.
The verses we are looking at today are focused on the man Moses, and how and what he did by faith.
May it bring strength and encouragement to your soul on this day. In Jesus’ name.
1. What Moses did, was done by faith just like the faith we have been given by God.
Hebrews 11:24 “It was by faith that Moses, when he grew up, refused to be treated as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter.”
You can see at the start of this verse it says, "It was by faith that Moses etc, etc”.
And then it goes on to list the things he did, or the choices he made and the way he lived.
2. Here's what's said about the faith of Moses. Please take a moment to note what he did.
Hebrews 11:24 “It was by faith that Moses, when he grew up, refused to be treated as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter.”
Hebrews 11:25 “He chose to share the oppression of God’s people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin.”
Hebrews 11:26 “He thought it was better to suffer for the sake of the Messiah than to own the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to the great reward that God would give him.”
Hebrews 11:27 “It was by faith that Moses left the land of Egypt. He was not afraid of the king. Moses kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible.”
3. Here's a breakdown:
(1) He refused to treated as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. Pharaoh in Scripture is a type of satan.
(2) He chose to share in the oppression of God's people.
(3) He chose not to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.
(4) He thought it better to suffer for the sake of the Messiah.
(5) He chose looking to the reward God would give him rather than the treasures of Egypt. Egypt is a type of the world.
(6) He left Egypt and was fearless.
(7) He kept his eyes on God through it all.
Some Questions:
1. Doesn't it stir your heart to read about what Moses did by faith?
2. Can you see the parallels between Moses's faith and our faith?
3. Do you think, or know, that you are making the same kinds of choices Moses made by faith?
4. If you are, then You are also in this hall of faith, along with every other person who chooses to walk and live by faith, or trust in God.
A Prayer:
Lord, as we pause for a few moments to reflect on faith and this example in the man Moses, who we will one day meet in heaven, we say thank You, for the record, of what he did by faith. It helps us to want to be the same way, and it encourages us that we can be that way.
Moses trusted You to do what He did, and so must we. Lord, we place our trust in You this day, and ask that You give us strength and grace, as we go through our day. May we find your compassion and mercy towards us and share it with others we may talk with or meet.
May our lives be a living witness of men and women who are walking by faith. In Jesus’ name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Hebrews 11:24 “It was by faith that Moses, when he grew up, refused to be treated as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter.”
Hebrews 11:25 “He chose to share the oppression of God’s people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin.”
Hebrews 11:26 “He thought it was better to suffer for the sake of the Messiah than to own the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to the great reward that God would give him.”
Hebrews 11:27 “It was by faith that Moses left the land of Egypt. He was not afraid of the king. Moses kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible.”
Taken from today's reading in "The One Year Bible”.
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
In this 11th chapter of Hebrews, we have what has been called "The Hall of Faith".
In it we have many, many examples of faith in action.
The verses we are looking at today are focused on the man Moses, and how and what he did by faith.
May it bring strength and encouragement to your soul on this day. In Jesus’ name.
1. What Moses did, was done by faith just like the faith we have been given by God.
Hebrews 11:24 “It was by faith that Moses, when he grew up, refused to be treated as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter.”
You can see at the start of this verse it says, "It was by faith that Moses etc, etc”.
And then it goes on to list the things he did, or the choices he made and the way he lived.
2. Here's what's said about the faith of Moses. Please take a moment to note what he did.
Hebrews 11:24 “It was by faith that Moses, when he grew up, refused to be treated as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter.”
Hebrews 11:25 “He chose to share the oppression of God’s people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin.”
Hebrews 11:26 “He thought it was better to suffer for the sake of the Messiah than to own the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to the great reward that God would give him.”
Hebrews 11:27 “It was by faith that Moses left the land of Egypt. He was not afraid of the king. Moses kept right on going because he kept his eyes on the one who is invisible.”
3. Here's a breakdown:
(1) He refused to treated as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. Pharaoh in Scripture is a type of satan.
(2) He chose to share in the oppression of God's people.
(3) He chose not to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin.
(4) He thought it better to suffer for the sake of the Messiah.
(5) He chose looking to the reward God would give him rather than the treasures of Egypt. Egypt is a type of the world.
(6) He left Egypt and was fearless.
(7) He kept his eyes on God through it all.
Some Questions:
1. Doesn't it stir your heart to read about what Moses did by faith?
2. Can you see the parallels between Moses's faith and our faith?
3. Do you think, or know, that you are making the same kinds of choices Moses made by faith?
4. If you are, then You are also in this hall of faith, along with every other person who chooses to walk and live by faith, or trust in God.
A Prayer:
Lord, as we pause for a few moments to reflect on faith and this example in the man Moses, who we will one day meet in heaven, we say thank You, for the record, of what he did by faith. It helps us to want to be the same way, and it encourages us that we can be that way.
Moses trusted You to do what He did, and so must we. Lord, we place our trust in You this day, and ask that You give us strength and grace, as we go through our day. May we find your compassion and mercy towards us and share it with others we may talk with or meet.
May our lives be a living witness of men and women who are walking by faith. In Jesus’ name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH ABOUT WHAT IS PLEASING TO GOD"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH ABOUT WHAT IS PLEASING TO GOD"
Hebrews 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible.
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
The entire book of Hebrews was written to show the superiority of Jesus Christ above all that the Jews held sacred.
Moses, Angels, the Levitical Priesthood, etc. The new covenant versus the old covenant.
Jesus is above all of these and is actually the fulfillment of all the these things we’re shadows of.
The verse we are looking at today tells us very plainly how to please God, and there is something else in it as well, it's a great blessing.
1. God can be pleased.
Hebrews 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
The author was trying to point out that we can please God, but not in the way his readers thought.
Those readers like many down through the ages, and even today, were under the impression that we had to earn God's pleasure by our good works.
This, of course, is not true, as the verse states.
But, what a thrill to know that we can please God.
Imagine that for a moment, God can be pleased with you.
Do you believe it?
2. To please God we must come to Him by faith.
Hebrews 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
Here's how we please Him.
And, it's impossible to please Him unless we do it this way.
That way is to come to Him by faith, or trust.
If we do come to Him with faith or trust He is pleased.
We must come to Him this way for Him to be pleased.
God has given you the faith to do that.
And, God gives you a stronger and growing faith through His Word.
Staying in the Word regularly helps us to have faith, and thus we can please God.
It's just simply impossible to please Him any other way, just as the verse states so clearly.
3. God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
Hebrews 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
Now here is one other blessing.
It's at the end of the verse.
Not only do we come to Him by faith, believing that He is, but that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
What does it mean to diligently seek Him?
It means to be sincere and genuine in our coming to Him.
You can do this, and so can I.
God has equipped us to be this way.
And, what rewards God gives us.
Praise the Lord.
Some Questions:
1. Are you familiar with this verse, and it's contents?
2. Isn't it a relief to know what it says and means?
3. Can you imagine, for just a moment, God being pleased with you as you sincerely seek Him?
4. And, can you see that God wants to reward you also?
5. Would you take a moment to come to God right now by faith and just praise Him, and thank Him for who He is and what He has done for you, and what He will do for you?
A Prayer:
O Lord, our God and Father. Thank You for making access to You so simple. You have established the way for us to come to You.
And, You reward us also. Our relationship with You is not predicated on what we do, but rather on what You have done in Jesus Christ for us. His death for our sins, His being buried and then His rising from the dead, and our receiving Him have changed our lives for all eternity.
We have no words to express our appreciation for what You have done.
But, Lord, may we grow in our coming to You, and may we grow in our own personal walk in the Word, Prayer, Church Attendance, Service to You, and being a witness of Jesus to people all through the day.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Hebrews 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible.
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
The entire book of Hebrews was written to show the superiority of Jesus Christ above all that the Jews held sacred.
Moses, Angels, the Levitical Priesthood, etc. The new covenant versus the old covenant.
Jesus is above all of these and is actually the fulfillment of all the these things we’re shadows of.
The verse we are looking at today tells us very plainly how to please God, and there is something else in it as well, it's a great blessing.
1. God can be pleased.
Hebrews 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
The author was trying to point out that we can please God, but not in the way his readers thought.
Those readers like many down through the ages, and even today, were under the impression that we had to earn God's pleasure by our good works.
This, of course, is not true, as the verse states.
But, what a thrill to know that we can please God.
Imagine that for a moment, God can be pleased with you.
Do you believe it?
2. To please God we must come to Him by faith.
Hebrews 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
Here's how we please Him.
And, it's impossible to please Him unless we do it this way.
That way is to come to Him by faith, or trust.
If we do come to Him with faith or trust He is pleased.
We must come to Him this way for Him to be pleased.
God has given you the faith to do that.
And, God gives you a stronger and growing faith through His Word.
Staying in the Word regularly helps us to have faith, and thus we can please God.
It's just simply impossible to please Him any other way, just as the verse states so clearly.
3. God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
Hebrews 11:6 “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
Now here is one other blessing.
It's at the end of the verse.
Not only do we come to Him by faith, believing that He is, but that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
What does it mean to diligently seek Him?
It means to be sincere and genuine in our coming to Him.
You can do this, and so can I.
God has equipped us to be this way.
And, what rewards God gives us.
Praise the Lord.
Some Questions:
1. Are you familiar with this verse, and it's contents?
2. Isn't it a relief to know what it says and means?
3. Can you imagine, for just a moment, God being pleased with you as you sincerely seek Him?
4. And, can you see that God wants to reward you also?
5. Would you take a moment to come to God right now by faith and just praise Him, and thank Him for who He is and what He has done for you, and what He will do for you?
A Prayer:
O Lord, our God and Father. Thank You for making access to You so simple. You have established the way for us to come to You.
And, You reward us also. Our relationship with You is not predicated on what we do, but rather on what You have done in Jesus Christ for us. His death for our sins, His being buried and then His rising from the dead, and our receiving Him have changed our lives for all eternity.
We have no words to express our appreciation for what You have done.
But, Lord, may we grow in our coming to You, and may we grow in our own personal walk in the Word, Prayer, Church Attendance, Service to You, and being a witness of Jesus to people all through the day.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Monday, November 3, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT DIGGING PITS AND LYING TONGUES"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT DIGGING PITS AND LYING TONGUES"
Proverbs 26:27 “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, And he who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him.”
Proverbs 26:28 “A lying tongue hates those who are crushed by it, And a flattering mouth works ruin.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 11/03/14.
A little background and some application, questions and a prayer:
The book of Proverbs gives us guidance in the most practical of matters while here on earth.
Proverbs gives us wisdom to live by.
Proverbs contains God's portable rules for living.
The best advice in the world is found in Proverbs.
May you be blessed by these two verses today.
1. It's dangerous to oneself to set a trap for another person.
Proverbs 26:27 “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, And he who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him.”
This is God's Word to help us to be careful about what we do in our lives.
It's dangerous to dig a pit, with the hope that someone will fall into it.
Why?
Because God says, you will fall into the pit you have dug.
You dug it with the hopes of another falling into it.
But, at the end of the day, you will fall into the pit you have dug.
In other words, if you try to trap another person, you will get caught in your own trap.
So, better to not be a pit digger for others, and a trap builder for others, because you will get yourself in trouble.
2. It's also dangerous to roll a burden down on others.
Proverbs 26:27 “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, And he who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him.”
Here is another warning from the Lord.
If a person plans to roll a bolder down on another person to hurt them, they will find the bolder rolling back on themselves.
The boulder will wind up crushing your life.
God has just set these laws into life.
Call it what you like, but God calls is Sowing and Reaping.
Proverbs gives us good advice about what not to sow and why.
3. Here are two truths about a lying tongue and flattery.
Proverbs 26:28 “A lying tongue hates those who are crushed by it, And a flattering mouth works ruin.”
When people tell lies about another, it also means they have hatred for that person.
Isn't that interesting.
The liar hates the person they are lying about and they also crush the person they are lying about by the lies they have told
Secondly, a flattering tongue causes ruin.
That's an interesting verse.
We might think about how it is that flattery can cause ruin.
Perhaps, it can cause the person being flattered to take their eyes off the Lord and forget that their blessings have come from God and not from themselves.
Complimenting and affirming is different than flattery.
Some Questions:
1. Aren't these interesting verses?
2. When is the last time, if ever, you might have thought about these truths?
3. Have you ever seen the fulfillment of these verses come to pass?
4. Isn't it wonderful that God warns us how to avoid danger?
A Prayer:
Father, thank You for watching out for us so carefully. You are love, and You want us to walk in love, not lies and hatred.
Help us to be loyal to You and Your ways.
That's the best way for us to live our lives.
Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil
We pray for anyone we know who may be violating what You have stated in these verses.
Have mercy upon them, Lord, and lead them into the paths of righteousness for Your name's sake.
In Jesus’ name
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Proverbs 26:27 “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, And he who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him.”
Proverbs 26:28 “A lying tongue hates those who are crushed by it, And a flattering mouth works ruin.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 11/03/14.
A little background and some application, questions and a prayer:
The book of Proverbs gives us guidance in the most practical of matters while here on earth.
Proverbs gives us wisdom to live by.
Proverbs contains God's portable rules for living.
The best advice in the world is found in Proverbs.
May you be blessed by these two verses today.
1. It's dangerous to oneself to set a trap for another person.
Proverbs 26:27 “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, And he who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him.”
This is God's Word to help us to be careful about what we do in our lives.
It's dangerous to dig a pit, with the hope that someone will fall into it.
Why?
Because God says, you will fall into the pit you have dug.
You dug it with the hopes of another falling into it.
But, at the end of the day, you will fall into the pit you have dug.
In other words, if you try to trap another person, you will get caught in your own trap.
So, better to not be a pit digger for others, and a trap builder for others, because you will get yourself in trouble.
2. It's also dangerous to roll a burden down on others.
Proverbs 26:27 “Whoever digs a pit will fall into it, And he who rolls a stone will have it roll back on him.”
Here is another warning from the Lord.
If a person plans to roll a bolder down on another person to hurt them, they will find the bolder rolling back on themselves.
The boulder will wind up crushing your life.
God has just set these laws into life.
Call it what you like, but God calls is Sowing and Reaping.
Proverbs gives us good advice about what not to sow and why.
3. Here are two truths about a lying tongue and flattery.
Proverbs 26:28 “A lying tongue hates those who are crushed by it, And a flattering mouth works ruin.”
When people tell lies about another, it also means they have hatred for that person.
Isn't that interesting.
The liar hates the person they are lying about and they also crush the person they are lying about by the lies they have told
Secondly, a flattering tongue causes ruin.
That's an interesting verse.
We might think about how it is that flattery can cause ruin.
Perhaps, it can cause the person being flattered to take their eyes off the Lord and forget that their blessings have come from God and not from themselves.
Complimenting and affirming is different than flattery.
Some Questions:
1. Aren't these interesting verses?
2. When is the last time, if ever, you might have thought about these truths?
3. Have you ever seen the fulfillment of these verses come to pass?
4. Isn't it wonderful that God warns us how to avoid danger?
A Prayer:
Father, thank You for watching out for us so carefully. You are love, and You want us to walk in love, not lies and hatred.
Help us to be loyal to You and Your ways.
That's the best way for us to live our lives.
Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil
We pray for anyone we know who may be violating what You have stated in these verses.
Have mercy upon them, Lord, and lead them into the paths of righteousness for Your name's sake.
In Jesus’ name
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Saturday, November 1, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT BEING FAITHFUL TO GOD'S CALLING"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT BEING FAITHFUL TO GOD'S CALLING"
Ezekiel 3:10 “Moreover He said to me: “Son of man, receive into your heart all My words that I speak to you, and hear with your ears.”
Ezekiel 3:11 “And go, get to the captives, to the children of your people, and speak to them and tell them, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD,’ whether they hear, or whether they refuse.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 11/2/14.
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
Ezekiel was a prophet sent by God to a rebellious people, the children of Israel.
He was being sent to people who did not want to hear the Word and actually tried to kill him.
God encouraged him to not be afraid but to go and tell the people what God had to say to them.
Ezekiel was a faithful man, may we be like him in our day.
Ezekiel 3:10 “Then he added, “Son of man, let all my words sink deep into your own heart first. Listen to them carefully for yourself.”
Ezekiel 3:11 “Then go to your people in exile and say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says!’ Do this whether they listen to you or not.”
1. God wants us to receive His Word into our hearts.
Ezekiel 3:10 “Moreover He said to me: “Son of man, receive into your heart all My words that I speak to you, and hear with your ears.”
God speaks to us.
God wants us to receive His Word into our hearts.
We can choose to receive His Word.
Or we can choose not to receive His Word.
May we be people who are receptive.
The idea here is that we would be receptive to His Word, and let His Word sink deep into our hearts first, before we share it with others.
2. God wants us to hear His Word with our ears.
Ezekiel 3:10 “Moreover He said to me: “Son of man, receive into your heart all My words that I speak to you, and hear with your ears.”
Along with letting God's Word sink into our hearts, He wants us to listen to His Word carefully.
And, to see how it applies to our own lives before we share it with others.
God's own messengers need God's own Word as much as anyone the messengers are being sent to.
May we let His Word be applied to our own hearts first.
Ezekiel 3:10 “Then he added, “Son of man, let all my words sink deep into your own heart first. Listen to them carefully for yourself.”
Ezekiel 3:11 “Then go to your people in exile and say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says!’ Do this whether they listen to you or not.”
3. God wants us to share His Word with those who are held captive.
Ezekiel 3:11 “And go, get to the captives, to the children of your people, and speak to them and tell them, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD,’ whether they hear, or whether they refuse.”
Many people are held captive today by sin and unbelief.
They do not want to hear God.
They would rather listen to the devil.
They do not even realize that they are bound by satan.
God knows they are held captive and wants to free them.
He sets people free by, and through, His Word.
Let's be those who go to the captives and tell them what God has said.
4. God wants us to be faithful to share His Word whether the people hear or they refuse.
Ezekiel 3:11 “And go, get to the captives, to the children of your people, and speak to them and tell them, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD,’ whether they hear, or whether they refuse.”
Some people will listen, praise God for that.
Some people will refuse to listen, let's pray to God for them.
We are not to worry about people being open or not.
We are to faithfully and lovingly tell them the truth.
God will bless His servants who faithfully proclaim His Word.
May we be those faithful servants who faithfully declare His Word.
Some Questions:
1. Do you see the truth of many today who do not want to hear God's Word?
2. Will you pray right along with me that we let God's Word be applied first to our own lives?
3. Do you ever get discouraged by those who refuse to listen to God?
4. Will you pray to be faithful to share His Word whether people listen or refuse it?
A Prayer:
Father, what a blessing to know You and be in Your family, and to have the honor of serving You in these last days.
So many are mocking the truth of the Bible in these days. We pray for them, Lord, that You would send a great outpouring of Your Spirit upon them, and open their eyes and hearts to Your life saving, soul freeing truth. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Ezekiel 3:10 “Moreover He said to me: “Son of man, receive into your heart all My words that I speak to you, and hear with your ears.”
Ezekiel 3:11 “And go, get to the captives, to the children of your people, and speak to them and tell them, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD,’ whether they hear, or whether they refuse.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 11/2/14.
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
Ezekiel was a prophet sent by God to a rebellious people, the children of Israel.
He was being sent to people who did not want to hear the Word and actually tried to kill him.
God encouraged him to not be afraid but to go and tell the people what God had to say to them.
Ezekiel was a faithful man, may we be like him in our day.
Ezekiel 3:10 “Then he added, “Son of man, let all my words sink deep into your own heart first. Listen to them carefully for yourself.”
Ezekiel 3:11 “Then go to your people in exile and say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says!’ Do this whether they listen to you or not.”
1. God wants us to receive His Word into our hearts.
Ezekiel 3:10 “Moreover He said to me: “Son of man, receive into your heart all My words that I speak to you, and hear with your ears.”
God speaks to us.
God wants us to receive His Word into our hearts.
We can choose to receive His Word.
Or we can choose not to receive His Word.
May we be people who are receptive.
The idea here is that we would be receptive to His Word, and let His Word sink deep into our hearts first, before we share it with others.
2. God wants us to hear His Word with our ears.
Ezekiel 3:10 “Moreover He said to me: “Son of man, receive into your heart all My words that I speak to you, and hear with your ears.”
Along with letting God's Word sink into our hearts, He wants us to listen to His Word carefully.
And, to see how it applies to our own lives before we share it with others.
God's own messengers need God's own Word as much as anyone the messengers are being sent to.
May we let His Word be applied to our own hearts first.
Ezekiel 3:10 “Then he added, “Son of man, let all my words sink deep into your own heart first. Listen to them carefully for yourself.”
Ezekiel 3:11 “Then go to your people in exile and say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign LORD says!’ Do this whether they listen to you or not.”
3. God wants us to share His Word with those who are held captive.
Ezekiel 3:11 “And go, get to the captives, to the children of your people, and speak to them and tell them, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD,’ whether they hear, or whether they refuse.”
Many people are held captive today by sin and unbelief.
They do not want to hear God.
They would rather listen to the devil.
They do not even realize that they are bound by satan.
God knows they are held captive and wants to free them.
He sets people free by, and through, His Word.
Let's be those who go to the captives and tell them what God has said.
4. God wants us to be faithful to share His Word whether the people hear or they refuse.
Ezekiel 3:11 “And go, get to the captives, to the children of your people, and speak to them and tell them, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD,’ whether they hear, or whether they refuse.”
Some people will listen, praise God for that.
Some people will refuse to listen, let's pray to God for them.
We are not to worry about people being open or not.
We are to faithfully and lovingly tell them the truth.
God will bless His servants who faithfully proclaim His Word.
May we be those faithful servants who faithfully declare His Word.
Some Questions:
1. Do you see the truth of many today who do not want to hear God's Word?
2. Will you pray right along with me that we let God's Word be applied first to our own lives?
3. Do you ever get discouraged by those who refuse to listen to God?
4. Will you pray to be faithful to share His Word whether people listen or refuse it?
A Prayer:
Father, what a blessing to know You and be in Your family, and to have the honor of serving You in these last days.
So many are mocking the truth of the Bible in these days. We pray for them, Lord, that You would send a great outpouring of Your Spirit upon them, and open their eyes and hearts to Your life saving, soul freeing truth. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)