"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT FINDING GOOD AND BEING HAPPY"
Proverbs 16:20 He who heeds the word wisely will find good, And whoever trusts in the LORD, happy is he.
Some explanatory thoughts/explanation/questions and a prayer:
The Book of Proverbs, from which today's verse is taken has been given to us by God, and it contains practical suggestions for successful living. When you read through all 31 chapters, it's amazing how God has covered almost every area of life imaginable, and given us His wisdom about those areas. The one today is very simple, but profound, it's about "Finding good and being happy"
1. The person who will listen to instruction will prosper.
Proverbs 16:20 He who heeds the word wisely will find good,
That's essentially what is being said here. If a person will listen to God's Word, or if they will heed God's Word, they are going to find something. And, that something is called, "Good" or they will find "Prosperity" Or things going well for them, as compared to going bad.
The Word "good" means, better, best, prosperity, agreeable, glad, happy, right, welfare and happiness.
So, good can be found, but, it's a result of heeding the Word of God. of listening to God's instruction.
2. The person who trusts in the LORD will be a happy person.
Proverbs 16:20b And whoever trusts in the LORD, happy is he.
Once again, the one thing is the result of another. Happiness in the life of a Christian, is the fruit of trusting in the LORD, or having faith in God.
To trust or have faith means, to put your confidence in, to hope in, to be secure in.
We are given faith by God, and we gain more faith by listening to and receiving His Word into our lives. Faith comes by and through the Word of God.
Thus, you can see that a happy person is a person who is trusting in God, trusting in His Word. Happiness is one of the wonderful benefits of being in the Word of God.
Some questions:
1. Are you finding good at this time in your life?
2. Are you heeding the Word of God at this time in your life?
3. Do you spend time daily in God's Word?
4. Do you know God really wants to bless your life?
5. Do you want to trust God but are having trouble doing so?
6. Will you let Him help you to trust Him by becoming a person who reads and studies the Bible.?
7. Will you make that request of God today, to help you, and will you then act upon what God wants you to do?
A prayer:
Our Father in heaven. Hallowed be your name. You are great and mighty. We know Lord that You want Your will to be done in our lives, and that Your will comes through Your Word. Thank You for revealing Your will to us in Your Word. But, Lord, so often we have neglected Your Word, and than wonder why our lives are so empty and miserable. But Father You have given us a great promise here. May this promise become a new starting point for many of us today.
Proverbs 16:20 He who heeds the word wisely will find good, And whoever trusts in the LORD, happy is he.
We love You Father.
In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Wednesday, June 4, 2014
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN OUR LIVES"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN OUR LIVES"
Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
Following the Lord rising from the dead, He gave his last bit of instruction to the apostles who were about to begin their ministry in the world. But, before they did, Jesus knew they would need Heavenly power and ability, or power for the task that lay ahead of them. So, He instructed them to wait in Jerusalem, until they received what God the Father had promised through the prophet Joel.
Joel 2:28 And it shall come to pass afterward That I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your old men shall dream dreams, Your young men shall see visions.
Joel 2:29 And also on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days.
Thus, You have Jesus telling the disciples to wait, because God was going to fulfill His promise. Which He did. And the entire 2nd Chapter of Acts is a record of that promise being fulfilled. But, let's look at Acts 1:8 in some depth, because this is also a promise for any believer today. For we need the same thing the early church leaders needed. We need God's power to live for Him, and to accomplish His will, and He is very willing that we receive it, and will give this power to whoever will ask Him for it.
1. The verse itself. Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
2. Please notice that the "you" being spoken to here are those who were born again followers of Jesus Christ. The apostles. Thus, "you" today would be a candidate if you will to receive this very same power in your life.
3. Jesus explained that God was going to give them something they did not yet have. Of course they did have the Holy Spirit residing in them, as do all true believers, but they did not yet have this power Jesus was spoken of, and I believe there are many true Christians today that also do not have this power. But they can, You can if you do not have this power.
4. Look at the verse again and see exactly what it says. Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Please notice, that Power is received through the Holy Spirit coming upon the believers. The Holy Spirit had been with them, leading them to Christ, He had come into them upon their being saved, but now He wanted to, and was about to overflow their lives with Divine power, strength, ability and might. He will do the same for you today.
5. Why? Why is this power needed, and for what purpose.? Look at the verse again for the answer. Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” It's so that we can be "witnesses to or of Christ" The Lord had saved these men, as I pray that He has You. You now know Him. But, He also wants to use your life to make "God known" to others. That's what being a witness is all about. It's making God known
But, the Lord is telling us in this verse, that we need His power to do that.
6. How do we receive this power? Good question, with a simple answer. Just ask Him for this power.
Luke 11:13 “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” See that last part?. "how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”
That's all that is needed, "ask Him"
7. Then, and here's another wonderful truth about God's power. This is something that He wants to give You day by day. Eph 5:18 Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, let the Holy Spirit fill and control you. In other words, don't allow wine to control your life, but let the Holy Spirit control you. And, this verse literally means, to "Be being filled with the Holy Spirit day by day, hour by hour etc, " Or to put it another way,
Ephesians 5:18
J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS)
You know the truth—let your life show it!
15-21 Live life, then, with a due sense of responsibility, not as men who do not know the meaning and purpose of life but as those who do. Make the best use of your time, despite all the difficulties of these days. Don’t be vague but firmly grasp what you know to be the will of God. Don’t get your stimulus from wine (for there is always the danger of excessive drinking), but let the Spirit stimulate your souls. Express your joy in singing among yourselves psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making music in your hearts for the ears of God! Thank God at all times for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. And “fit in with” each other, because of your common reverence for Christ.
Some questions:
1. Are you familiar with this verse and teaching of Christ?
2. Can you see that He deems it needful to have God's power to do God's work?
3. Are you understanding that this is not something you earn, but receive for the asking?
4. And, it's not just a one time filling as it were. But rather constant daily refills as needed. And, we need refills day by day.
5. Have you asked Him for this power? Will you take a moment, and in reverence and in simple child like faith, just ask Jesus to fill You with the power of His Spirit? And, will You tell Him, that You want to Make Him known to the world around You.?
A prayer:
You have made Yourself known to us, and we want to make You known to those around us. But, we cannot do this on our own. We need the power of God in our lives. So, we ask today, this moment, to let us receive the power of the Holy Spirit, Let Him come upon us, just as He did here in the book of Acts. There is a world full of people we know that do not know You, and You want them to know You. Use us we pray to make You known.
In Jesus name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
Following the Lord rising from the dead, He gave his last bit of instruction to the apostles who were about to begin their ministry in the world. But, before they did, Jesus knew they would need Heavenly power and ability, or power for the task that lay ahead of them. So, He instructed them to wait in Jerusalem, until they received what God the Father had promised through the prophet Joel.
Joel 2:28 And it shall come to pass afterward That I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your old men shall dream dreams, Your young men shall see visions.
Joel 2:29 And also on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days.
Thus, You have Jesus telling the disciples to wait, because God was going to fulfill His promise. Which He did. And the entire 2nd Chapter of Acts is a record of that promise being fulfilled. But, let's look at Acts 1:8 in some depth, because this is also a promise for any believer today. For we need the same thing the early church leaders needed. We need God's power to live for Him, and to accomplish His will, and He is very willing that we receive it, and will give this power to whoever will ask Him for it.
1. The verse itself. Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
2. Please notice that the "you" being spoken to here are those who were born again followers of Jesus Christ. The apostles. Thus, "you" today would be a candidate if you will to receive this very same power in your life.
3. Jesus explained that God was going to give them something they did not yet have. Of course they did have the Holy Spirit residing in them, as do all true believers, but they did not yet have this power Jesus was spoken of, and I believe there are many true Christians today that also do not have this power. But they can, You can if you do not have this power.
4. Look at the verse again and see exactly what it says. Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” Please notice, that Power is received through the Holy Spirit coming upon the believers. The Holy Spirit had been with them, leading them to Christ, He had come into them upon their being saved, but now He wanted to, and was about to overflow their lives with Divine power, strength, ability and might. He will do the same for you today.
5. Why? Why is this power needed, and for what purpose.? Look at the verse again for the answer. Acts 1:8 “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” It's so that we can be "witnesses to or of Christ" The Lord had saved these men, as I pray that He has You. You now know Him. But, He also wants to use your life to make "God known" to others. That's what being a witness is all about. It's making God known
But, the Lord is telling us in this verse, that we need His power to do that.
6. How do we receive this power? Good question, with a simple answer. Just ask Him for this power.
Luke 11:13 “If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!” See that last part?. "how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”
That's all that is needed, "ask Him"
7. Then, and here's another wonderful truth about God's power. This is something that He wants to give You day by day. Eph 5:18 Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, let the Holy Spirit fill and control you. In other words, don't allow wine to control your life, but let the Holy Spirit control you. And, this verse literally means, to "Be being filled with the Holy Spirit day by day, hour by hour etc, " Or to put it another way,
Ephesians 5:18
J.B. Phillips New Testament (PHILLIPS)
You know the truth—let your life show it!
15-21 Live life, then, with a due sense of responsibility, not as men who do not know the meaning and purpose of life but as those who do. Make the best use of your time, despite all the difficulties of these days. Don’t be vague but firmly grasp what you know to be the will of God. Don’t get your stimulus from wine (for there is always the danger of excessive drinking), but let the Spirit stimulate your souls. Express your joy in singing among yourselves psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, making music in your hearts for the ears of God! Thank God at all times for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. And “fit in with” each other, because of your common reverence for Christ.
Some questions:
1. Are you familiar with this verse and teaching of Christ?
2. Can you see that He deems it needful to have God's power to do God's work?
3. Are you understanding that this is not something you earn, but receive for the asking?
4. And, it's not just a one time filling as it were. But rather constant daily refills as needed. And, we need refills day by day.
5. Have you asked Him for this power? Will you take a moment, and in reverence and in simple child like faith, just ask Jesus to fill You with the power of His Spirit? And, will You tell Him, that You want to Make Him known to the world around You.?
A prayer:
You have made Yourself known to us, and we want to make You known to those around us. But, we cannot do this on our own. We need the power of God in our lives. So, we ask today, this moment, to let us receive the power of the Holy Spirit, Let Him come upon us, just as He did here in the book of Acts. There is a world full of people we know that do not know You, and You want them to know You. Use us we pray to make You known.
In Jesus name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Monday, June 2, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S WISDOM"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S WISDOM"
Proverbs 16:16 How much better to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.
Proverbs 16:17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil; He who keeps his way preserves his soul.
Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
As we know, the Book of Proverbs is God's Book of wisdom for us, teaching us His wisdom for daily living.
These verses deal with the relative value of wisdom and gold, understanding and silver. And the road that God has for those who walk up-rightly. And, finally, the danger of pride, what it will lead to.
1. There is something better than money.
Proverbs 16:16 How much better to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.
Here, God tells us how much better one thing is over another. This is not what the world tells us, but, it is the truth of God, and it can be depended on. The two things that are better are wisdom and understanding.
Both of these are better. One can get wisdom, and one can get understanding. They are both a better choice.
We can live for money, or we can place the priorities of God above all else, and we will be the better off. Let's make God's wisdom and understanding what we choose over living for things that will eventually perish, and do not bring the satisfaction that wisdom and understanding can bring.
2. God's highway ( or path ) brings blessings to the upright.
Proverbs 16:17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil; He who keeps his way preserves his soul.
God says there are two roads in life, one is wide, and one is narrow. All men are on one or the other. One leads to life and one leads to destruction. God wants you and I to choose the one that leads to life. It's the King's highway, it's His path for you and I to walk on. We make our choice to do so, and in making that choice we will find it bringing great blessings. By going God's way, we will find ourselves safe and sound in the Lord. By going that way, we will find ourselves being led away from the evil within, and the evil around us. One last thing, going on God's highway also is a road that leads to the preserving of our souls. The other road leads to destruction and evil.
3. There is a warning here for us about the dangers of pride.
Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.
The word or concept of pride here means, pomp, swelling, arrogance, to exalt oneself, to lift oneself up in a bad sense. It's a sin of the flesh. It's resident within our flesh, and we need to be aware of it, and repent of it when we become aware of it rising up in us.
Why? Because look at what the verse says. Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.
When we choose to live in arrogance, rather than humility, we are sure to find destruction just around the corner. What does a haughty spirit mean? It comes from a word meaning, to be exalted, lofty, tall, and to be arrogant. Not unlike pride. This is a sinful tendency that every man has to battle his entire life. It's worth fighting the battle against it. For, if haughtiness takes over, we are headed for a fall.
The Lord promises otherwise to the humble.
James 4:6 But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
1Peter 5:5 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
Some questions:
1. Do you find yourself dealing with pride and arrogance from time to time?
2. What are the situations that you find yourself in, that seem to bring these sins out in your life?
3. Have you found these verse true in your life?
4. How would you describe the blessings of humility versus the dangers of pride?
5. Do you believe the promise of God to bless your humility?
6. Is there something You need to do today to take heed to the wisdom in these verses?
A prayer:
Father, there has never been anyone as humble as Jesus Christ to walk this earth. His humility has led to our salvation by our trusting in His death for our sins. Yet Lord, we still have to deal with the tendency to pride and arrogance. Lead us not into these things Lord, but away from them. Fill us with grace as we seek to humble ourselves before You. We want Your blessings, not the consequences of our own foolish choices. Make us those who receive and put into practice the wisdom You provide for us. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Proverbs 16:16 How much better to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.
Proverbs 16:17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil; He who keeps his way preserves his soul.
Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
As we know, the Book of Proverbs is God's Book of wisdom for us, teaching us His wisdom for daily living.
These verses deal with the relative value of wisdom and gold, understanding and silver. And the road that God has for those who walk up-rightly. And, finally, the danger of pride, what it will lead to.
1. There is something better than money.
Proverbs 16:16 How much better to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen rather than silver.
Here, God tells us how much better one thing is over another. This is not what the world tells us, but, it is the truth of God, and it can be depended on. The two things that are better are wisdom and understanding.
Both of these are better. One can get wisdom, and one can get understanding. They are both a better choice.
We can live for money, or we can place the priorities of God above all else, and we will be the better off. Let's make God's wisdom and understanding what we choose over living for things that will eventually perish, and do not bring the satisfaction that wisdom and understanding can bring.
2. God's highway ( or path ) brings blessings to the upright.
Proverbs 16:17 The highway of the upright is to depart from evil; He who keeps his way preserves his soul.
God says there are two roads in life, one is wide, and one is narrow. All men are on one or the other. One leads to life and one leads to destruction. God wants you and I to choose the one that leads to life. It's the King's highway, it's His path for you and I to walk on. We make our choice to do so, and in making that choice we will find it bringing great blessings. By going God's way, we will find ourselves safe and sound in the Lord. By going that way, we will find ourselves being led away from the evil within, and the evil around us. One last thing, going on God's highway also is a road that leads to the preserving of our souls. The other road leads to destruction and evil.
3. There is a warning here for us about the dangers of pride.
Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.
The word or concept of pride here means, pomp, swelling, arrogance, to exalt oneself, to lift oneself up in a bad sense. It's a sin of the flesh. It's resident within our flesh, and we need to be aware of it, and repent of it when we become aware of it rising up in us.
Why? Because look at what the verse says. Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.
When we choose to live in arrogance, rather than humility, we are sure to find destruction just around the corner. What does a haughty spirit mean? It comes from a word meaning, to be exalted, lofty, tall, and to be arrogant. Not unlike pride. This is a sinful tendency that every man has to battle his entire life. It's worth fighting the battle against it. For, if haughtiness takes over, we are headed for a fall.
The Lord promises otherwise to the humble.
James 4:6 But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
1Peter 5:5 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”
Some questions:
1. Do you find yourself dealing with pride and arrogance from time to time?
2. What are the situations that you find yourself in, that seem to bring these sins out in your life?
3. Have you found these verse true in your life?
4. How would you describe the blessings of humility versus the dangers of pride?
5. Do you believe the promise of God to bless your humility?
6. Is there something You need to do today to take heed to the wisdom in these verses?
A prayer:
Father, there has never been anyone as humble as Jesus Christ to walk this earth. His humility has led to our salvation by our trusting in His death for our sins. Yet Lord, we still have to deal with the tendency to pride and arrogance. Lead us not into these things Lord, but away from them. Fill us with grace as we seek to humble ourselves before You. We want Your blessings, not the consequences of our own foolish choices. Make us those who receive and put into practice the wisdom You provide for us. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Saturday, May 31, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT AN INTERESTING ANSWER TO PRAYER"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT AN INTERESTING ANSWER TO PRAYER"
2nd Samuel 17:14 So Absalom and all the men of Israel said, “The advice of Hushai the Archite is better than the advice of Ahithophel.” For the LORD had purposed to defeat the good advice of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring disaster on Absalom.
Some explanatory thoughts/applications/questions and a prayer:
Earlier in this story of high treason by Absolom against his father David, King David had asked the Lord to intervene in the life of a man named Ahitophel who had betrayed King David. Here's what David prayed in 2nd Samuel 15:31 Then someone told David, saying, “Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom.” And David said, “O LORD, I pray, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness!”
A little later on, Ahithopel was attempting to advise Absolom on how to kill his father David, He laid out a plan to do so, ( See 2nd Sam 17:1-4 ) But, then a man who was a spy for David, named Hushai, was called by Absolom to give him a plan to consider in his attempts to murder his Father. Hushai's plan was accepted and Ahithophels was rejected. And, thus you have what is said in 2nd Samuel 17:14 So Absalom and all the men of Israel said, “The advice of Hushai the Archite is better than the advice of Ahithophel.” For the LORD had purposed to defeat the good advice of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring disaster on Absalom.
This was God's answer to David's prayer. But the story is not over yet. Here's what happened to Ahithopel.
2nd Sam 17:23 Now when Ahithophel saw that his advice was not followed, he saddled a donkey, and arose and went home to his house, to his city. Then he put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died; and he was buried in his father’s tomb.
He was so upset that his advice had not been taken, that he wound up taking his own life. There are many lessons from this incredible story to be sure. But here are just a few that come to mind.
1. Integrity is better than treachery.
Pro 11:3 The integrity of the upright will guide them, But the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them.
Or as it reads in the NLT "Good people are guided by their honesty; treacherous people are destroyed by their dishonesty." Imagine for a moment how different things might have been for Ahithopel if had been a man of honor, and not a self promoting traitor to King David?
2. Pride goes before a fall.
Prov 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall. The NKJV reads this way Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.
God has built into life, that when a man raises himself up in pride, he can count on falling. And, such was the case with Ahithopel.
3. We reap what we sow.
Galatians 6:8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.
And, the NLT reads this way "Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful desires will harvest the consequences of decay and death. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit."
Again, this is a law of God, and it cannot be broken.
4. God hears and answers prayers in His own way and time.
James 5:4 Indeed the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, cry out; and the cries of the reapers have reached the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth.
Eph 1:11 In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will,
5. Our lives are ultimately in the hands of God.
Joshua 9:25 “And now, here we are, in your hands; do with us as it seems good and right to do to us.”
Psalm 31:15 My times are in Your hand; Deliver me from the hand of my enemies, And from those who persecute me.
6. Let us walk in the ways of the Lord, in love and righteousness.
Psalm 119:133 Direct my steps by Your word, And let no iniquity have dominion over me.
Some questions:
1. How did this story speak to your heart?
2. David asked God for something, and it was in God's will, and it was answered.
3. Do you look to God for His protection and safety?
4. Men make their choices, and their choices make them. That applies to us also doesn't it?
5. How do we reconcile the teaching of Jesus to pray for our enemies with what David prayed for?
6. Are you seeking to walk in humility before God? Or are you walking in pride?
A prayer:
Father, we are no better than any other man. Though You want us to be better than we are. You want to conform us into the image of Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. We agree with Your Word, we do not want to be led into temptation, we want to be kept from evil. Lord, help us to be humble, keep us from pride. Make us men and women of integrity, and keep us from corruption. We can do all things through Christ who makes us strong.
We love You, and desire to walk in Your ways Lord. In Jesus name.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
2nd Samuel 17:14 So Absalom and all the men of Israel said, “The advice of Hushai the Archite is better than the advice of Ahithophel.” For the LORD had purposed to defeat the good advice of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring disaster on Absalom.
Some explanatory thoughts/applications/questions and a prayer:
Earlier in this story of high treason by Absolom against his father David, King David had asked the Lord to intervene in the life of a man named Ahitophel who had betrayed King David. Here's what David prayed in 2nd Samuel 15:31 Then someone told David, saying, “Ahithophel is among the conspirators with Absalom.” And David said, “O LORD, I pray, turn the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness!”
A little later on, Ahithopel was attempting to advise Absolom on how to kill his father David, He laid out a plan to do so, ( See 2nd Sam 17:1-4 ) But, then a man who was a spy for David, named Hushai, was called by Absolom to give him a plan to consider in his attempts to murder his Father. Hushai's plan was accepted and Ahithophels was rejected. And, thus you have what is said in 2nd Samuel 17:14 So Absalom and all the men of Israel said, “The advice of Hushai the Archite is better than the advice of Ahithophel.” For the LORD had purposed to defeat the good advice of Ahithophel, to the intent that the LORD might bring disaster on Absalom.
This was God's answer to David's prayer. But the story is not over yet. Here's what happened to Ahithopel.
2nd Sam 17:23 Now when Ahithophel saw that his advice was not followed, he saddled a donkey, and arose and went home to his house, to his city. Then he put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died; and he was buried in his father’s tomb.
He was so upset that his advice had not been taken, that he wound up taking his own life. There are many lessons from this incredible story to be sure. But here are just a few that come to mind.
1. Integrity is better than treachery.
Pro 11:3 The integrity of the upright will guide them, But the perversity of the unfaithful will destroy them.
Or as it reads in the NLT "Good people are guided by their honesty; treacherous people are destroyed by their dishonesty." Imagine for a moment how different things might have been for Ahithopel if had been a man of honor, and not a self promoting traitor to King David?
2. Pride goes before a fall.
Prov 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall. The NKJV reads this way Proverbs 16:18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.
God has built into life, that when a man raises himself up in pride, he can count on falling. And, such was the case with Ahithopel.
3. We reap what we sow.
Galatians 6:8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.
And, the NLT reads this way "Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful desires will harvest the consequences of decay and death. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit."
Again, this is a law of God, and it cannot be broken.
4. God hears and answers prayers in His own way and time.
James 5:4 Indeed the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, cry out; and the cries of the reapers have reached the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth.
Eph 1:11 In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will,
5. Our lives are ultimately in the hands of God.
Joshua 9:25 “And now, here we are, in your hands; do with us as it seems good and right to do to us.”
Psalm 31:15 My times are in Your hand; Deliver me from the hand of my enemies, And from those who persecute me.
6. Let us walk in the ways of the Lord, in love and righteousness.
Psalm 119:133 Direct my steps by Your word, And let no iniquity have dominion over me.
Some questions:
1. How did this story speak to your heart?
2. David asked God for something, and it was in God's will, and it was answered.
3. Do you look to God for His protection and safety?
4. Men make their choices, and their choices make them. That applies to us also doesn't it?
5. How do we reconcile the teaching of Jesus to pray for our enemies with what David prayed for?
6. Are you seeking to walk in humility before God? Or are you walking in pride?
A prayer:
Father, we are no better than any other man. Though You want us to be better than we are. You want to conform us into the image of Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. We agree with Your Word, we do not want to be led into temptation, we want to be kept from evil. Lord, help us to be humble, keep us from pride. Make us men and women of integrity, and keep us from corruption. We can do all things through Christ who makes us strong.
We love You, and desire to walk in Your ways Lord. In Jesus name.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Friday, May 30, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT HUMILITY, AND HOPE IN THE MIDST OF ADVERSITY"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT HUMILITY, AND HOPE IN THE MIDST OF ADVERSITY"
2nd Samuel 16:10 But the king said, “What have I to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah? So let him curse, because the LORD has said to him, ‘Curse David.’ Who then shall say, ‘Why have you done so?’”
2nd Samuel 16:11 And David said to Abishai and all his servants, “See how my son who came from my own body seeks my life. How much more now may this Benjamite? Let him alone, and let him curse; for so the LORD has ordered him.
2nd Samuel 16:12 “It may be that the LORD will look on my affliction, and that the LORD will repay me with good for his cursing this day.”
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
This portion of 2nd Samuel details the culmination of King David's son, Absolom's rebellion against his father David. Absolom had steadily worked to steal the kingdom from his father. Absolom was a wicked man, and a treacherous son to his father. He wound up stealing the kingdom from his father, and ushering his father out in shame from Jerusalem. It was like a modern day coup if you will. What is so interesting and inspiring is to see the way that David acted in the midst of this tragic and painful event. Let's see what he did. He is a tremendous example of humility in the midst of adversity.
1. David understood that God was still in control, even though this terrible event was taking place.
2nd Samuel 16:10 But the king said, “What have I to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah? So let him curse, because the LORD has said to him, ‘Curse David.’ Who then shall say, ‘Why have you done so?’”
2nd Samuel 16:11 And David said to Abishai and all his servants, “See how my son who came from my own body seeks my life. How much more now may this Benjamite? Let him alone, and let him curse; for so the LORD has ordered him.
David was restraining one of his own men from retaliation against one of his son's Absolom's men. You will notice that David said, "So let him curse, because the LORD has said to him, ‘Curse David.’ Who then shall say, ‘Why have you done so?’”
In other words, David realized and stated openly, that the LORD had ordered all of this. David did not want to fight against what God was doing. He accepted this most painful and shameful experience as being ordered by the LORD. What an example of trust in God in the midst of adversity.
2. David also had hope and trust in the LORD for the days ahead. He had hope that God would still bless him.
2nd Samuel 16:12 “It may be that the LORD will look on my affliction, and that the LORD will repay me with good for his cursing this day.”
It's interesting to watch this man after God's own heart act when he was suffering. He had of course sinned greatly with Bathsheba, and had already suffered greatly as a result. He had repented of his sins, and was clear with God. But, David had a very wicked son, this Absolom. And, now Absolom was kicking his own father the king out of the city of Jerusalem, and stealing the kingdom from him, and shaming his father, and allowing his father to the king to be cursed at.
But, David had hope in God. Notice what he said. “It may be that the LORD will look on my affliction, and that the LORD will repay me with good for his cursing this day.”
Some things to note here.
(1) He was completely humble and making no demands upon God.
(2) He was not complaining about what was happening to him.
(3) He was wondering if God might not bless him in the future.
(4) He knew that God could repay him in the future with blessing, for all the cursing that was taking place.
Some questions/statements:
1. It's not an easy thing to accept adversity from the hand of God.
2. David knew that his sin had brought this trouble into his own life.
3. Don't you think that David was now realizing the great cost of his sin?
4. But, don't you admire the way David was humble and trusting in God in this adversity.?
5. And, finally, isn't it encouraging to see that David had a hope of future blessing from God.
6. Do you know that God did indeed bless David down the road, He restored the kingdom to Him.
7. By the way, David's rebellious son Absolom came to a dreadful end, as all the proud and wicked do.
A prayer:
Father, You have given us these stories from the OT to teach us lessons, to teach us how to avoid making the same mistakes, and falling into the same sins. Unfortunately Lord, we often do not heed Your Word, and we are just as stubborn and disobedient as anyone else. But, Father, it does not have to be that way. You do not want that for us. You desire that we live our lives in complete surrender and obedience to Your will. And, that is what we also want, deep down in our hearts. Give us the humility of heart that we see in King David, who accepted Your chastening towards Him, but also maintained a hope that You might bless him in the days ahead. Thank You for being so gracious to him. And, be gracious to us Lord, for we also have sinned, and are no different than so many of the people we see in the Bible. Make us humble, and hopeful Lord. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
2nd Samuel 16:10 But the king said, “What have I to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah? So let him curse, because the LORD has said to him, ‘Curse David.’ Who then shall say, ‘Why have you done so?’”
2nd Samuel 16:11 And David said to Abishai and all his servants, “See how my son who came from my own body seeks my life. How much more now may this Benjamite? Let him alone, and let him curse; for so the LORD has ordered him.
2nd Samuel 16:12 “It may be that the LORD will look on my affliction, and that the LORD will repay me with good for his cursing this day.”
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
This portion of 2nd Samuel details the culmination of King David's son, Absolom's rebellion against his father David. Absolom had steadily worked to steal the kingdom from his father. Absolom was a wicked man, and a treacherous son to his father. He wound up stealing the kingdom from his father, and ushering his father out in shame from Jerusalem. It was like a modern day coup if you will. What is so interesting and inspiring is to see the way that David acted in the midst of this tragic and painful event. Let's see what he did. He is a tremendous example of humility in the midst of adversity.
1. David understood that God was still in control, even though this terrible event was taking place.
2nd Samuel 16:10 But the king said, “What have I to do with you, you sons of Zeruiah? So let him curse, because the LORD has said to him, ‘Curse David.’ Who then shall say, ‘Why have you done so?’”
2nd Samuel 16:11 And David said to Abishai and all his servants, “See how my son who came from my own body seeks my life. How much more now may this Benjamite? Let him alone, and let him curse; for so the LORD has ordered him.
David was restraining one of his own men from retaliation against one of his son's Absolom's men. You will notice that David said, "So let him curse, because the LORD has said to him, ‘Curse David.’ Who then shall say, ‘Why have you done so?’”
In other words, David realized and stated openly, that the LORD had ordered all of this. David did not want to fight against what God was doing. He accepted this most painful and shameful experience as being ordered by the LORD. What an example of trust in God in the midst of adversity.
2. David also had hope and trust in the LORD for the days ahead. He had hope that God would still bless him.
2nd Samuel 16:12 “It may be that the LORD will look on my affliction, and that the LORD will repay me with good for his cursing this day.”
It's interesting to watch this man after God's own heart act when he was suffering. He had of course sinned greatly with Bathsheba, and had already suffered greatly as a result. He had repented of his sins, and was clear with God. But, David had a very wicked son, this Absolom. And, now Absolom was kicking his own father the king out of the city of Jerusalem, and stealing the kingdom from him, and shaming his father, and allowing his father to the king to be cursed at.
But, David had hope in God. Notice what he said. “It may be that the LORD will look on my affliction, and that the LORD will repay me with good for his cursing this day.”
Some things to note here.
(1) He was completely humble and making no demands upon God.
(2) He was not complaining about what was happening to him.
(3) He was wondering if God might not bless him in the future.
(4) He knew that God could repay him in the future with blessing, for all the cursing that was taking place.
Some questions/statements:
1. It's not an easy thing to accept adversity from the hand of God.
2. David knew that his sin had brought this trouble into his own life.
3. Don't you think that David was now realizing the great cost of his sin?
4. But, don't you admire the way David was humble and trusting in God in this adversity.?
5. And, finally, isn't it encouraging to see that David had a hope of future blessing from God.
6. Do you know that God did indeed bless David down the road, He restored the kingdom to Him.
7. By the way, David's rebellious son Absolom came to a dreadful end, as all the proud and wicked do.
A prayer:
Father, You have given us these stories from the OT to teach us lessons, to teach us how to avoid making the same mistakes, and falling into the same sins. Unfortunately Lord, we often do not heed Your Word, and we are just as stubborn and disobedient as anyone else. But, Father, it does not have to be that way. You do not want that for us. You desire that we live our lives in complete surrender and obedience to Your will. And, that is what we also want, deep down in our hearts. Give us the humility of heart that we see in King David, who accepted Your chastening towards Him, but also maintained a hope that You might bless him in the days ahead. Thank You for being so gracious to him. And, be gracious to us Lord, for we also have sinned, and are no different than so many of the people we see in the Bible. Make us humble, and hopeful Lord. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Thursday, May 29, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE WILL OF GOD FOR JESUS, AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR US"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE WILL OF GOD FOR JESUS, AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR US"
John 18:11 But Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup the Father has given me?”
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
This verse is taken during the period where Jesus was arrested by the Roman soldiers, and then taken to be tried unjustly, and then crucified. There are a number of important truths in this one simple, but profound verse.
1. We often do not understand the will of God for our lives.
John 18:11 But Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup the Father has given me?”
You notice here that Jesus had to instruct Peter to put his sword back into it's sheath. That's because Peter had just cut off the ear of a man named Malcus, in an effort to defend Jesus from the soldiers who had come to arrest Jesus. Peter's motives may have been good, but his understanding of God's will for Jesus was not.
Jesus had come to the earth for this very hour. To be taken and to be crucified for the sins of the world, and Peter with a sincere heart was trying to stop this from happening.
We can certainly identify with Peter. How often we also do not understand the will of God. But, not to fear, nor to be condemned, God is faithful, and just as He instructed Peter as to what to do, or what not do to, the Lord does the same for us. Here are two scriptures that make a promise to us from God, about giving us wisdom.
Pro 2:6 For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding;
James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him
2. Jesus knew exactly what God had in mind for Him, and was ready to do the will of God.
John 18:11 But Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup the Father has given me?”
The last part of the verse is put in the form of a question. "Shall I not drink from the cup the Father has given to me?" In other words, Jesus was explaining to Peter what Peter did not know. Peter thought what was taking place should not. Jesus knew that what was taking place was the will of God for Him, and ultimately for every human being.
The cup is, and expression of the will of God. Jesus expressed His desire to drink cup, or to do the will of God.
He came to drink the cup of dying for the sins of the world. He was ready to do what God had called Him to do.
He did this for you and me. And, not for just us, but for the sins of the whole world. He drank the cup that God had given Him to drink, and He drank it because of His love for us. His cup was death on the cross, but, it brought life to those who would believe in Him.
Questions:
1. Wouldn't you agree, that God's cup for us is not always easy to drink?
2. If we had our way, we would change cups, don't you think?
3. But, let's be honest, doesn't God know what cup is best for us to drink?
4. Are you at this time struggling with the cup that God has for you?
5. Or are you embracing the cup that God has for you to drink?
6. Have you in the past experienced that the difficult cup to drink, later turns out to be a cup of joy?
7. Gods cup, has come from His wise, loving, holy, and just heart, it's the best cup we could drink.
A prayer:
Father, we are not orphans. We have You to watch over us, and to guide us. We often don't know what to do, or if a cup is good for us to drink. We sometimes are repulsed by what is put before us. But, after we pray, and wait on You, and seek Your counsel, we conclude, "Yes, this is the best for me", and we like Jesus say,"Shall I not drink the cup" Lord, forgive us for the times that we balk at Your will. And, help us to mature and be those that without question embrace day by day whatever You have planned for us. Your ways are righteous and true, and You do not change. In Jesus name, Amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
John 18:11 But Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup the Father has given me?”
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
This verse is taken during the period where Jesus was arrested by the Roman soldiers, and then taken to be tried unjustly, and then crucified. There are a number of important truths in this one simple, but profound verse.
1. We often do not understand the will of God for our lives.
John 18:11 But Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup the Father has given me?”
You notice here that Jesus had to instruct Peter to put his sword back into it's sheath. That's because Peter had just cut off the ear of a man named Malcus, in an effort to defend Jesus from the soldiers who had come to arrest Jesus. Peter's motives may have been good, but his understanding of God's will for Jesus was not.
Jesus had come to the earth for this very hour. To be taken and to be crucified for the sins of the world, and Peter with a sincere heart was trying to stop this from happening.
We can certainly identify with Peter. How often we also do not understand the will of God. But, not to fear, nor to be condemned, God is faithful, and just as He instructed Peter as to what to do, or what not do to, the Lord does the same for us. Here are two scriptures that make a promise to us from God, about giving us wisdom.
Pro 2:6 For the LORD gives wisdom; From His mouth come knowledge and understanding;
James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him
2. Jesus knew exactly what God had in mind for Him, and was ready to do the will of God.
John 18:11 But Jesus said to Peter, “Put your sword back into its sheath. Shall I not drink from the cup the Father has given me?”
The last part of the verse is put in the form of a question. "Shall I not drink from the cup the Father has given to me?" In other words, Jesus was explaining to Peter what Peter did not know. Peter thought what was taking place should not. Jesus knew that what was taking place was the will of God for Him, and ultimately for every human being.
The cup is, and expression of the will of God. Jesus expressed His desire to drink cup, or to do the will of God.
He came to drink the cup of dying for the sins of the world. He was ready to do what God had called Him to do.
He did this for you and me. And, not for just us, but for the sins of the whole world. He drank the cup that God had given Him to drink, and He drank it because of His love for us. His cup was death on the cross, but, it brought life to those who would believe in Him.
Questions:
1. Wouldn't you agree, that God's cup for us is not always easy to drink?
2. If we had our way, we would change cups, don't you think?
3. But, let's be honest, doesn't God know what cup is best for us to drink?
4. Are you at this time struggling with the cup that God has for you?
5. Or are you embracing the cup that God has for you to drink?
6. Have you in the past experienced that the difficult cup to drink, later turns out to be a cup of joy?
7. Gods cup, has come from His wise, loving, holy, and just heart, it's the best cup we could drink.
A prayer:
Father, we are not orphans. We have You to watch over us, and to guide us. We often don't know what to do, or if a cup is good for us to drink. We sometimes are repulsed by what is put before us. But, after we pray, and wait on You, and seek Your counsel, we conclude, "Yes, this is the best for me", and we like Jesus say,"Shall I not drink the cup" Lord, forgive us for the times that we balk at Your will. And, help us to mature and be those that without question embrace day by day whatever You have planned for us. Your ways are righteous and true, and You do not change. In Jesus name, Amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Wednesday, May 28, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT JESUS'S PRAYER AND WILL FOR THOSE WHO BELIEVE IN HIM"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT JESUS'S PRAYER AND WILL FOR THOSE WHO BELIEVE IN HIM"
John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
This chapter is filled with what truly is the "Lord's Prayer" Because, it's Jesus praying to His Father.
It's a tremendously intimate and revealing prayer about the heart of Jesus towards His Father, and towards His mission here on earth, and towards His disciples at that time, and those who would come to faith in the ages to come. Let's just focus on one particular verse. John 17:17 This is one of Jesus's prayers.
1. Jesus prays that the Father would sanctify His disciples.
John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
Another way of saying this, is, "Make them pure and holy" That's what Sanctify means It also has the meaning of setting you apart to God for His exclusive use. So, this is the desire of Jesus, this is the prayer of Jesus, and this is what can happen in the life of those who follow Jesus. It's what Jesus is praying for. Sanctify, or holy, also means, freedom from sin, and moral perfection. God wants You to be as free from sin as you can possibly be, and He wants you to be as morally pure as you can be this side of heaven. This is God's will for each and every believer, It's God's will for you today.
2. Jesus makes you holy by teaching you God's Word.
John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
The answer to Jesus prayer, or the way that God answers Jesus's prayer is through the Word of God. God's pure and holy Word can and will bring about in our lives that same purity and holiness that is in Him. He and His Word are one and the same. And, the Lord wants You to be a partaker of His holiness. You are His child, and He wants His characteristics be be in you, and growing in your life. So, the way this prayer is answered is by the Word of God.
You can see why it's so important to be in the Word of God. It's God's agent of change for His people. God makes you holy, by His Word. But, it's imperative that you are committed to His Word, and You are taking in His Word on a regular basis. God's Daily Bread for Your soul, will change you, and make you more and more into the image of Jesus Christ.
3. Jesus says that God's Word is Truth.
John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
So, the progression in this prayer is easily seen. First, Make them Holy. Second, make them holy by Your truth.
And finally an explanation about God's Word truth. Your Word is truth.
The Bible is God's Word, and it's also truth. Here's what Paul said about it.
2nd Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right.
Please notice 5 things here about God's Word.
(1) All Scripture is inspired by God
(2) It is useful to teach us what is right, or true.
(3) It is useful to make us realize what is wrong in our lives.
(4) It is useful to straighten us out in our lives.
(5) It is useful to teach us do what is right.
There is no other book in the entire world like the Holy Bible. And it will when taken in, and responded to make you Holy, just as Jesus prayed for.
Questions:
1. Isn't it wonderful and encouraging to know that Jesus has and is praying for you.
2. Can you see what Jesus's prayer is for, it's for your life to be made holy, i.e set apart to God?
3. Also, can you see that the way God makes you holy is by and through His Word.
4. And, can you see that unlike any other book in the whole world, His Word is truth, completely inspired by God.
5. Would you take another look at the 5 things listed above about God's Word.
6. And, finally, would you take a moment to express in a brief prayer to God that You desire to be what He wants you to be?
A prayer:
Father, It seems like we are always thanking You for Your Word, and we are. Your Word is our daily bread. It's our life, we cannot truly live without it. Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. So, thank You for giving us that which gives us life, and changes our lives, and makes them into what You want them to be. We want to go right along with Your prayer Lord Jesus. John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. Or as it's said in the NLT "Make them pure and holy by teaching them your words of truth." That's our prayer also. In Jesus name, amen.
John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
This chapter is filled with what truly is the "Lord's Prayer" Because, it's Jesus praying to His Father.
It's a tremendously intimate and revealing prayer about the heart of Jesus towards His Father, and towards His mission here on earth, and towards His disciples at that time, and those who would come to faith in the ages to come. Let's just focus on one particular verse. John 17:17 This is one of Jesus's prayers.
1. Jesus prays that the Father would sanctify His disciples.
John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
Another way of saying this, is, "Make them pure and holy" That's what Sanctify means It also has the meaning of setting you apart to God for His exclusive use. So, this is the desire of Jesus, this is the prayer of Jesus, and this is what can happen in the life of those who follow Jesus. It's what Jesus is praying for. Sanctify, or holy, also means, freedom from sin, and moral perfection. God wants You to be as free from sin as you can possibly be, and He wants you to be as morally pure as you can be this side of heaven. This is God's will for each and every believer, It's God's will for you today.
2. Jesus makes you holy by teaching you God's Word.
John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
The answer to Jesus prayer, or the way that God answers Jesus's prayer is through the Word of God. God's pure and holy Word can and will bring about in our lives that same purity and holiness that is in Him. He and His Word are one and the same. And, the Lord wants You to be a partaker of His holiness. You are His child, and He wants His characteristics be be in you, and growing in your life. So, the way this prayer is answered is by the Word of God.
You can see why it's so important to be in the Word of God. It's God's agent of change for His people. God makes you holy, by His Word. But, it's imperative that you are committed to His Word, and You are taking in His Word on a regular basis. God's Daily Bread for Your soul, will change you, and make you more and more into the image of Jesus Christ.
3. Jesus says that God's Word is Truth.
John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.
So, the progression in this prayer is easily seen. First, Make them Holy. Second, make them holy by Your truth.
And finally an explanation about God's Word truth. Your Word is truth.
The Bible is God's Word, and it's also truth. Here's what Paul said about it.
2nd Timothy 3:16 All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right.
Please notice 5 things here about God's Word.
(1) All Scripture is inspired by God
(2) It is useful to teach us what is right, or true.
(3) It is useful to make us realize what is wrong in our lives.
(4) It is useful to straighten us out in our lives.
(5) It is useful to teach us do what is right.
There is no other book in the entire world like the Holy Bible. And it will when taken in, and responded to make you Holy, just as Jesus prayed for.
Questions:
1. Isn't it wonderful and encouraging to know that Jesus has and is praying for you.
2. Can you see what Jesus's prayer is for, it's for your life to be made holy, i.e set apart to God?
3. Also, can you see that the way God makes you holy is by and through His Word.
4. And, can you see that unlike any other book in the whole world, His Word is truth, completely inspired by God.
5. Would you take another look at the 5 things listed above about God's Word.
6. And, finally, would you take a moment to express in a brief prayer to God that You desire to be what He wants you to be?
A prayer:
Father, It seems like we are always thanking You for Your Word, and we are. Your Word is our daily bread. It's our life, we cannot truly live without it. Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. So, thank You for giving us that which gives us life, and changes our lives, and makes them into what You want them to be. We want to go right along with Your prayer Lord Jesus. John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. Or as it's said in the NLT "Make them pure and holy by teaching them your words of truth." That's our prayer also. In Jesus name, amen.
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