"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE PROMISES OF GOD FOR HIS CHILDREN"
Psalm 91:14 “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name.”
Psalm 91:15 “He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him.”
Psalm 91:16 “With long life I will satisfy him, And show him My salvation.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/22/14)
1. God makes promises to those who love Him and know Him.
Psalm 91:14 “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name.”
The Psalms are full of truths about God.
They include many promises He has made to us.
One basic truth here is that we can love and know God.
We did not always know and love Him.
But when we were saved we came into that relationship with Him.
Now we know Him, and can love Him.
2. What God promises to those who love and know Him.
Psalm 91:14 “Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name.”
Here is just one promise we have from God.
God promises to deliver His children.
God promises to set us on high.
God's promises are all for those who know Him.
These promises are therefore for you as a person who knows and loves God.
3. Several more specific promises from God for those who love Him and know Him.
Psalm 91:15 “He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him.”
Psalm 91:16 “With long life I will satisfy him, And show him My salvation.”
We can call upon Him, and He will answer us. That's a promise.
God promises to be with us in trouble. That's a promise.
He will deliver and honor us. That's a promise.
God will give us long life and will satisfy us. That's a promise.
God will show us His salvation. That's a promise.
4. Here's how these verses read in the NLT:
Psalm 91:14 “The LORD says, “I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name.”
Psalm 91:15 “When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue them and honor them.”
Psalm 91:16 “I will satisfy them with a long life and give them my salvation.”
Some Questions:
1. Do you often think about the fact that God makes promises to you?
2. Do you know that when God makes a promise, that He makes good on His promises?
3. Can you, will you claim these promises as your own today?
4. Will you join me in giving thanks to God for His many wonderful promises?
A Prayer:
Father, we have no one like You, because there is no one like You. You alone are God, and You alone reign on high.
Thank You for being true and faithful and loving us so much. Thank You also for the comfort we derive daily from Your Word.
Your promises lift our hearts day by day, and we need that encouragement, Lord.
Help us to simply believe You when You speak to us.
Please show us how to apply what You show us.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOING TO WORK EACH DAY"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOING TO WORK EACH DAY"
1st Timothy 6:1 “Let as many bondservants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed.”
1st Timothy 6:2 “And those who have believing masters, let them not despise them because they are brethren, but rather serve them because those who are benefited are believers and beloved. Teach and exhort these things.”
(Taken from today's reading in the One Year Bible 10/21/14)
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
This letter written by Pastor Paul to Pastor Timothy included teaching about many things in the church. How we are to live day by day, treat each other, what to watch out for, and what to hope in. These verses have to do with simply going to work, and how to treat those who are over us on the job.
1. We ought to treat our masters with all honor.
1st Timothy 6:1 “Let as many bondservants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed.”
In the early church, there were many, many slaves, and many of them were followers of Jesus Christ. God was telling the christian slaves how to treat their masters. They were to be respectful to them.
If not, there was the danger of Christianity being ill spoken of.
So, you can be a good witness of the Lord at work by how you treat your boss.
Simply be respectful, and you will avoid giving opportunity for unbelieving bosses to blaspheme or speak ill of the Lord.
2. The reason for treating our masters with all honor is so that God and His Word will not be ill spoken of.
1st Timothy 6:1 “Let as many bondservants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed.”
Here's how this reads in the NLT:
1st Timothy 6:1 “Christians who are slaves should give their masters full respect so that the name of God and his teaching will not be shamed.”
Give your masters full respect, and this will keep the name of God from being shamed.
People will blame God based on how His followers act.
Or, to put it another way, people will not be able to blame God if God's followers act in a Godly way.
In this case, it's simple. Be respectful to your employer.
3. If you happen to have a boss that is a Christian, here's what to do.
1st Timothy 6:2 “And those who have believing masters, let them not despise them because they are brethren, but rather serve them because those who are benefited are believers and beloved. Teach and exhort these things.”
It seems that Christians sometimes think that if their boss is a christian, then their boss ought to treat them with favoritism, and cut them some slack, etc.
But not so.
Here's what's said.
Do not despise your boss if he is a christian.
This was originally written to slaves who had owners that were also christians.
Christian slaves owned by Christian masters.
Do not despise them, but rather serve them.
God has blessed them and saved them.
They are loved by God.
Again here's how this verse reads in the New Living Translation:
1st Timothy 6:2 “If your master is a Christian, that is no excuse for being disrespectful. You should work all the harder because you are helping another believer by your efforts. Teach these truths, Timothy, and encourage everyone to obey them.”
Questions:
1. Do you have a job you go to everyday?
2. Who is your direct supervisor?
3. Is your boss a believer or an unbeliever?
4. Do you realize what an opportunity you have each day to be a good witness for Christ?
5. Simply be respectful, this will mean much to keeping accusations down about God and bringing glory to His name.
A Prayer:
Father, first of all, thank You for a job. You have provided the work we have. May we honor You by honoring those who are over us on our jobs. You desire to be glorified in and through our lives, and by our simply being respectful we can bring glory to Your name.
Help us, Lord, to follow Your Word and Your Ways day by day. In the name of Your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
1st Timothy 6:1 “Let as many bondservants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed.”
1st Timothy 6:2 “And those who have believing masters, let them not despise them because they are brethren, but rather serve them because those who are benefited are believers and beloved. Teach and exhort these things.”
(Taken from today's reading in the One Year Bible 10/21/14)
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
This letter written by Pastor Paul to Pastor Timothy included teaching about many things in the church. How we are to live day by day, treat each other, what to watch out for, and what to hope in. These verses have to do with simply going to work, and how to treat those who are over us on the job.
1. We ought to treat our masters with all honor.
1st Timothy 6:1 “Let as many bondservants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed.”
In the early church, there were many, many slaves, and many of them were followers of Jesus Christ. God was telling the christian slaves how to treat their masters. They were to be respectful to them.
If not, there was the danger of Christianity being ill spoken of.
So, you can be a good witness of the Lord at work by how you treat your boss.
Simply be respectful, and you will avoid giving opportunity for unbelieving bosses to blaspheme or speak ill of the Lord.
2. The reason for treating our masters with all honor is so that God and His Word will not be ill spoken of.
1st Timothy 6:1 “Let as many bondservants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and His doctrine may not be blasphemed.”
Here's how this reads in the NLT:
1st Timothy 6:1 “Christians who are slaves should give their masters full respect so that the name of God and his teaching will not be shamed.”
Give your masters full respect, and this will keep the name of God from being shamed.
People will blame God based on how His followers act.
Or, to put it another way, people will not be able to blame God if God's followers act in a Godly way.
In this case, it's simple. Be respectful to your employer.
3. If you happen to have a boss that is a Christian, here's what to do.
1st Timothy 6:2 “And those who have believing masters, let them not despise them because they are brethren, but rather serve them because those who are benefited are believers and beloved. Teach and exhort these things.”
It seems that Christians sometimes think that if their boss is a christian, then their boss ought to treat them with favoritism, and cut them some slack, etc.
But not so.
Here's what's said.
Do not despise your boss if he is a christian.
This was originally written to slaves who had owners that were also christians.
Christian slaves owned by Christian masters.
Do not despise them, but rather serve them.
God has blessed them and saved them.
They are loved by God.
Again here's how this verse reads in the New Living Translation:
1st Timothy 6:2 “If your master is a Christian, that is no excuse for being disrespectful. You should work all the harder because you are helping another believer by your efforts. Teach these truths, Timothy, and encourage everyone to obey them.”
Questions:
1. Do you have a job you go to everyday?
2. Who is your direct supervisor?
3. Is your boss a believer or an unbeliever?
4. Do you realize what an opportunity you have each day to be a good witness for Christ?
5. Simply be respectful, this will mean much to keeping accusations down about God and bringing glory to His name.
A Prayer:
Father, first of all, thank You for a job. You have provided the work we have. May we honor You by honoring those who are over us on our jobs. You desire to be glorified in and through our lives, and by our simply being respectful we can bring glory to Your name.
Help us, Lord, to follow Your Word and Your Ways day by day. In the name of Your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Monday, October 20, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SINS AND GOOD WORKS"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SINS AND GOOD WORKS"
1st Timothy 5:24 “Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later.”
1st Timothy 5:25 “Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/20/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Paul was advising young pastor Timothy about how to conduct himself in the church, and how the church was to conduct itself.
He covers the bases as it were. Dealing with very specific instruction about different a get groups, men, women, elders, compensation for leaders, along with the responsibilities of leaders.
In these two verses, Paul addresses two issues. Sins and Good works.
1. Some people's sins are very evident.
1st Timothy 5:24 “Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later.”
Here is how this reads in the NLT:
1st Tim 5:24 :Remember that some people lead sinful lives, and everyone knows they will be judged. But there are others whose sin will not be revealed until later.:
So, it's pretty clear that there are some people who lead sinful lives and everyone can see it, and everyone knows about it.
The other thing that is clear is that people who live sinful lives (unsaved people) will one day stand before the Lord and be judged for their sins.
Paul tells us that everyone who knows about the lives of sinful people also know that those people are headed for judgement.
This is a very sobering truth.
2. Some people's sins are not evident in this life.
1st Timothy 5:24 “Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later.”
Here is how this reads in the NLT:
1st Tim 5:24 “Remember that some people lead sinful lives, and everyone knows they will be judged. But there are others whose sin will not be revealed until later.”
This is the other side of the proverbial coin as it were.
There are some people who lead sinful lives, and are able to keep their sins hidden, at least from men around them.
God, of course, knows and can see, but we cannot.
However, Paul says that what is hidden from men will one day be revealed later on.
He is speaking of the judgement mentioned earlier.
There will be some surprises at the end.
Those who have been able to hide their sins and fool others will be seen for what they really did.
Again, how sobering.
3. Those people with good works are clearly evident.
1st Timothy 5:25 “Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden.”
It's hard to hide good works. They seem to show up like bright lights.
They are clearly evident to all.
Most of us know what good works others do.
It's hard to hide them.
4. Some people's good works are not so evident but will one day come to light in heaven.
1st Timothy 5:25 “Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden.”
But, even though good works are hard to hide, or not be seen, there are many people who have many good works, that no one seems to know about.
And it won't be until later that their good works will be known.
Isn't that a blessing.
It's not sobering like the earlier verse, but pregnant with hope and joy.
God is going to reward His saints at what is called the Bema Seat of Christ.
Jesus will test all of our works and reward us accordingly.
What a great day to look forward to.
Some Questions:
1. Do you pay much attention to the people around you?
2. Can you see what is taking place in people's lives?
3. It's pretty easy to see much of the evil that is going on, isn't it?
4. Some of the sinful deeds are being hidden from our eyes.
5. Do you know that God wants to reward you for your good deeds?
6. Are you one of those people whose good deeds are done kind of quietly, and no one really knows about them except God?
A Prayer:
Father, You have a future ahead for all men. Some will go into the judgement of God and separated forever. They will be punished for their sins. Others will go into heaven and be rewarded by You, and enjoy Your company and the company of all the angels and all others who are saved.
We thank You for the glorious future You have given to us. And, we pray that You would make us compassionate for those around us who are at this time not headed to heaven. Might we be used by You to help them change their eternal destination. In the name of Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
1st Timothy 5:24 “Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later.”
1st Timothy 5:25 “Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/20/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Paul was advising young pastor Timothy about how to conduct himself in the church, and how the church was to conduct itself.
He covers the bases as it were. Dealing with very specific instruction about different a get groups, men, women, elders, compensation for leaders, along with the responsibilities of leaders.
In these two verses, Paul addresses two issues. Sins and Good works.
1. Some people's sins are very evident.
1st Timothy 5:24 “Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later.”
Here is how this reads in the NLT:
1st Tim 5:24 :Remember that some people lead sinful lives, and everyone knows they will be judged. But there are others whose sin will not be revealed until later.:
So, it's pretty clear that there are some people who lead sinful lives and everyone can see it, and everyone knows about it.
The other thing that is clear is that people who live sinful lives (unsaved people) will one day stand before the Lord and be judged for their sins.
Paul tells us that everyone who knows about the lives of sinful people also know that those people are headed for judgement.
This is a very sobering truth.
2. Some people's sins are not evident in this life.
1st Timothy 5:24 “Some men’s sins are clearly evident, preceding them to judgment, but those of some men follow later.”
Here is how this reads in the NLT:
1st Tim 5:24 “Remember that some people lead sinful lives, and everyone knows they will be judged. But there are others whose sin will not be revealed until later.”
This is the other side of the proverbial coin as it were.
There are some people who lead sinful lives, and are able to keep their sins hidden, at least from men around them.
God, of course, knows and can see, but we cannot.
However, Paul says that what is hidden from men will one day be revealed later on.
He is speaking of the judgement mentioned earlier.
There will be some surprises at the end.
Those who have been able to hide their sins and fool others will be seen for what they really did.
Again, how sobering.
3. Those people with good works are clearly evident.
1st Timothy 5:25 “Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden.”
It's hard to hide good works. They seem to show up like bright lights.
They are clearly evident to all.
Most of us know what good works others do.
It's hard to hide them.
4. Some people's good works are not so evident but will one day come to light in heaven.
1st Timothy 5:25 “Likewise, the good works of some are clearly evident, and those that are otherwise cannot be hidden.”
But, even though good works are hard to hide, or not be seen, there are many people who have many good works, that no one seems to know about.
And it won't be until later that their good works will be known.
Isn't that a blessing.
It's not sobering like the earlier verse, but pregnant with hope and joy.
God is going to reward His saints at what is called the Bema Seat of Christ.
Jesus will test all of our works and reward us accordingly.
What a great day to look forward to.
Some Questions:
1. Do you pay much attention to the people around you?
2. Can you see what is taking place in people's lives?
3. It's pretty easy to see much of the evil that is going on, isn't it?
4. Some of the sinful deeds are being hidden from our eyes.
5. Do you know that God wants to reward you for your good deeds?
6. Are you one of those people whose good deeds are done kind of quietly, and no one really knows about them except God?
A Prayer:
Father, You have a future ahead for all men. Some will go into the judgement of God and separated forever. They will be punished for their sins. Others will go into heaven and be rewarded by You, and enjoy Your company and the company of all the angels and all others who are saved.
We thank You for the glorious future You have given to us. And, we pray that You would make us compassionate for those around us who are at this time not headed to heaven. Might we be used by You to help them change their eternal destination. In the name of Your Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Saturday, October 18, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE MYSTERY OF GODLINESS"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE MYSTERY OF GODLINESS"
1st Timothy 3:16 “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/18/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Paul was writing this letter to encourage his young associate in ministry Timothy. He also, of course, wrote 2nd Timothy.
The purpose of both letters were to explain to Timothy how to conduct himself in the church, and gave him instruction related to issues that were of concern to Timothy and the church in Ephesus.
The one single verse we are looking at is it seems a moment where Paul the Apostle simply burst out into praise and adoration of God whom He had been speaking about. In this verse we have many great and wonderful truths expressed and defined for us about God. May You be blessed greatly as you consider them, and may the Lord direct you into whatever application He has for you.
1. There is no question that the things of God are a great mystery to us.
1st Timothy 3:16 “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory.”
Simply put, God and the truths of God are not easily put into a box if you will.
It's a mystery.
Meaning that these truths have to be revealed by God.
And, that God has to give us the ability through His Spirit to understand them.
And, God wants us to understand them.
2. There is no question that God became a man.
1st Timothy 3:16 “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory.”
Paul tells us that God was manifest in the flesh.
God took on a human body.
Jesus Christ is God.
Jesus left glory and took upon Himself human flesh.
God became a man.
3. There is no question that God/Jesus was justified in the Spirit.
1st Timothy 3:16 “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory.”
In other words, the Holy Spirit affirmed the truthfulness of Jesus Christ being God in the flesh.
Take, for example, the Gospel of John.
It was written primarily to prove that Jesus Christ is God.
The miracles recorded in John were recorded so men would believe in Jesus Christ.
Jesus fulfilled many, many prophecies about the Messiah.
Thus proving He was God.
Jesus was justified by the Spirit of God.
4. There is no question either that Jesus was seen of angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, and received up into glory.
1st Timothy 3:16 “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory.”
These four truths are without question.
They are part of what makes this mystery so grand and glorious.
Angels beheld the incarnation of Jesus, in fact, they announced His birth.
Christ was preached not only to the Jews but to the Gentiles as well, just as the Old Testament said He would be.
And, Jesus has been believed in by multitudes, myself included, and I pray you also.
He came here to be believed on, so that people could be saved from their sins.
Finally, after Jesus died, was buried, and rose from the dead, He ascended up into heaven where He sits today.
Questions:
1. Isn't it a lot to take in when you really consider these truths about God?
2. Does it make you realize how much there is to learn about Jesus Christ, and God the Father, and the Holy Spirit?
3. When did you first really have your eyes opened to the truth about Jesus?
4. When (if you have) did you first believe in Christ to save you?
5. Do you know that one day, because of salvation, you also will be taken up into heaven to be with God forever?
A Prayer:
Father, indeed to say the least great is the mystery of Godliness. Who is like You? There is none like You. You alone are God almighty.
Thank You for sending Jesus into the world. Thank You Jesus that You came into this world and died on the cross to save us from our sins. And thank You Holy Spirit for dwelling in us, and teaching us more and more about Jesus. We pray for You to continue guiding us, especially in these very difficult days our world is going through right now. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
1st Timothy 3:16 “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/18/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Paul was writing this letter to encourage his young associate in ministry Timothy. He also, of course, wrote 2nd Timothy.
The purpose of both letters were to explain to Timothy how to conduct himself in the church, and gave him instruction related to issues that were of concern to Timothy and the church in Ephesus.
The one single verse we are looking at is it seems a moment where Paul the Apostle simply burst out into praise and adoration of God whom He had been speaking about. In this verse we have many great and wonderful truths expressed and defined for us about God. May You be blessed greatly as you consider them, and may the Lord direct you into whatever application He has for you.
1. There is no question that the things of God are a great mystery to us.
1st Timothy 3:16 “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory.”
Simply put, God and the truths of God are not easily put into a box if you will.
It's a mystery.
Meaning that these truths have to be revealed by God.
And, that God has to give us the ability through His Spirit to understand them.
And, God wants us to understand them.
2. There is no question that God became a man.
1st Timothy 3:16 “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory.”
Paul tells us that God was manifest in the flesh.
God took on a human body.
Jesus Christ is God.
Jesus left glory and took upon Himself human flesh.
God became a man.
3. There is no question that God/Jesus was justified in the Spirit.
1st Timothy 3:16 “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory.”
In other words, the Holy Spirit affirmed the truthfulness of Jesus Christ being God in the flesh.
Take, for example, the Gospel of John.
It was written primarily to prove that Jesus Christ is God.
The miracles recorded in John were recorded so men would believe in Jesus Christ.
Jesus fulfilled many, many prophecies about the Messiah.
Thus proving He was God.
Jesus was justified by the Spirit of God.
4. There is no question either that Jesus was seen of angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, and received up into glory.
1st Timothy 3:16 “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, Justified in the Spirit, Seen by angels, Preached among the Gentiles, Believed on in the world, Received up in glory.”
These four truths are without question.
They are part of what makes this mystery so grand and glorious.
Angels beheld the incarnation of Jesus, in fact, they announced His birth.
Christ was preached not only to the Jews but to the Gentiles as well, just as the Old Testament said He would be.
And, Jesus has been believed in by multitudes, myself included, and I pray you also.
He came here to be believed on, so that people could be saved from their sins.
Finally, after Jesus died, was buried, and rose from the dead, He ascended up into heaven where He sits today.
Questions:
1. Isn't it a lot to take in when you really consider these truths about God?
2. Does it make you realize how much there is to learn about Jesus Christ, and God the Father, and the Holy Spirit?
3. When did you first really have your eyes opened to the truth about Jesus?
4. When (if you have) did you first believe in Christ to save you?
5. Do you know that one day, because of salvation, you also will be taken up into heaven to be with God forever?
A Prayer:
Father, indeed to say the least great is the mystery of Godliness. Who is like You? There is none like You. You alone are God almighty.
Thank You for sending Jesus into the world. Thank You Jesus that You came into this world and died on the cross to save us from our sins. And thank You Holy Spirit for dwelling in us, and teaching us more and more about Jesus. We pray for You to continue guiding us, especially in these very difficult days our world is going through right now. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Friday, October 17, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE DESIRE OF GOD"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE DESIRE OF GOD"
1st Timothy 2:4 “Who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/17/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Paul was writing this and 2nd Timothy to a pastor named Timothy. He wrote him to encourage him during a difficult and challenging time in his life and ministry. And, to give him very specific guidelines about how to conduct himself in the church. And how the church was to conduct itself in doing the will of God. Chapter 2 starts off by placing prayer in the church as a priority of ministry. And then Paul begins speaking about God's nature and desire for men to be saved. This one short and simple verse is filled with profound truth about our God.
And, it is a verse that I hope will encourage you to pray for anyone you know who needs to be saved.
1. God has desires just like we do.
1st Timothy 2:4 “who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
We are made in the image of God.
We have desires and so does God.
Desire here means, desirous, would to like to do a thing, be fond of doing. take delight in, have pleasure.
God clearly takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked.
He does not want man to die in his sins, because then man would be separated from God forever.
What God desires and takes great pleasure in, is a person being saved from their sins.
Christ came to save His people from their sins by dying on the cross to pay for their sins.
God wants all men to be saved.
2. God's desires have to do with the greatest need mankind has.
1st Timothy 2:4 “who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
There are many things that a person needs in life.
But the greatest of all needs is to have their sins forgiven,
God desires or wants this for all men as well.
He also wants all men to understand the truth.
The truths is "Jesus Christ" .
Satan has blinded the minds of unbelievers.
They cannot understand the truth.
But, God wants them to understand it.
3. God clearly desires that all men would be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.
1st Timothy 2:4 “who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
Having said what has been said, it does not mean that all men will automatically be saved.
Though God desires all men to be saved, they must first repent of their sins, and believe in Jesus Christ.
If a person will do that, then God's desire will be met.
Some Questions:
1. Who do you know that needs to be saved?
2. Do you have children, siblings, or parents that need salvation?
3. Are you encouraged to know that God wants them to be saved?
4. Do you want them to be saved?
5. You and the Lord are synchronized together in this desire.
6. Will you pray for the persons you have in mind who need salvation?
A Prayer:
Father, how great, gracious, and generous You are. We human beings compared to You are no comparison. You are holy, and we are sinful. Yet You love us and You desire that all men would be saved so that they could be with You forever and ever.
You have gone so far as to send Your own Son to the cross in order to make salvation possible. You use prayer to advance the expansion of Your kingdom. We pray that You might place a new Godly compassion within our hearts that will cause us to be more prayerful.
That we might pray along the lines of Your desires and Your will.
You desire that all men be saved, and we know many who need salvation. Lord, may be grow in our steadfastness to pray for them.
Save now O Lord, Save now.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
1st Timothy 2:4 “Who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/17/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Paul was writing this and 2nd Timothy to a pastor named Timothy. He wrote him to encourage him during a difficult and challenging time in his life and ministry. And, to give him very specific guidelines about how to conduct himself in the church. And how the church was to conduct itself in doing the will of God. Chapter 2 starts off by placing prayer in the church as a priority of ministry. And then Paul begins speaking about God's nature and desire for men to be saved. This one short and simple verse is filled with profound truth about our God.
And, it is a verse that I hope will encourage you to pray for anyone you know who needs to be saved.
1. God has desires just like we do.
1st Timothy 2:4 “who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
We are made in the image of God.
We have desires and so does God.
Desire here means, desirous, would to like to do a thing, be fond of doing. take delight in, have pleasure.
God clearly takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked.
He does not want man to die in his sins, because then man would be separated from God forever.
What God desires and takes great pleasure in, is a person being saved from their sins.
Christ came to save His people from their sins by dying on the cross to pay for their sins.
God wants all men to be saved.
2. God's desires have to do with the greatest need mankind has.
1st Timothy 2:4 “who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
There are many things that a person needs in life.
But the greatest of all needs is to have their sins forgiven,
God desires or wants this for all men as well.
He also wants all men to understand the truth.
The truths is "Jesus Christ" .
Satan has blinded the minds of unbelievers.
They cannot understand the truth.
But, God wants them to understand it.
3. God clearly desires that all men would be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.
1st Timothy 2:4 “who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”
Having said what has been said, it does not mean that all men will automatically be saved.
Though God desires all men to be saved, they must first repent of their sins, and believe in Jesus Christ.
If a person will do that, then God's desire will be met.
Some Questions:
1. Who do you know that needs to be saved?
2. Do you have children, siblings, or parents that need salvation?
3. Are you encouraged to know that God wants them to be saved?
4. Do you want them to be saved?
5. You and the Lord are synchronized together in this desire.
6. Will you pray for the persons you have in mind who need salvation?
A Prayer:
Father, how great, gracious, and generous You are. We human beings compared to You are no comparison. You are holy, and we are sinful. Yet You love us and You desire that all men would be saved so that they could be with You forever and ever.
You have gone so far as to send Your own Son to the cross in order to make salvation possible. You use prayer to advance the expansion of Your kingdom. We pray that You might place a new Godly compassion within our hearts that will cause us to be more prayerful.
That we might pray along the lines of Your desires and Your will.
You desire that all men be saved, and we know many who need salvation. Lord, may be grow in our steadfastness to pray for them.
Save now O Lord, Save now.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Thursday, October 16, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE PLANS GOD HAS FOR HIS PEOPLE"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE PLANS GOD HAS FOR HIS PEOPLE"
Jeremiah 29:10 “For thus says the LORD: After seventy years are completed at Babylon, I will visit you and perform My good word toward you, and cause you to return to this place.”
Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:12 “Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.”
Jeremiah 29:13 “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/16/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
These verses spoken by God through Jeremiah to the children of Judah about what God was going to do.
The people would because of their rebellion and disobedience be taken into captivity by the Babylonians and held there for 70 long years.
But, following those years God was going to visit them and bring blessings upon them, returning them to their homeland. God goes into great detail here about what His thoughts are towards His people. These are some of the most wonderful and encouraging verses in the Bible. I pray that you make them your own, and find tremendous blessing by believing.
1. God's judgement and chastening is followed by God's blessing.
Jeremiah 29:10 “For thus says the LORD: After seventy years are completed at Babylon, I will visit you and perform My good word toward you, and cause you to return to this place.”
Disobedience does not bring blessing.
Judgment came upon God's people because of their disobedience.
But even in the darkest hour God always expresses hope for His people.
It's no different today. There is hope for You also.
God promises to perform His Word.
God cannot lie.
God called it "His good word”.
And good it was.
God brought His people back to their homeland.
2. Here's what God was thinking about and towards His people.
Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
God thinks.
God knows what His thoughts are just as you know what Yours are.
God's thoughts are towards His people.
God is thinking about you also.
God's thoughts are thoughts of peace and not of evil (or destruction).
God's plan and purpose is to give His people a future and hope.
God also has a plan and purpose for your future.
Here's how it reads in the NLT "For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."
3. God's people can call upon Him, or pray to Him, and He will listen to them.
Jeremiah 29:12 “Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.”
What a wonder to behold.
A person can talk to God.
God will hear and listen to that person.
You can, as a Christian, speak to and with God.
God as your Father will hear you and listen to you.
What a blessing it is to know this about our God.
4. You can seek the Lord, and He promises You will find Him when You search for Him with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:13 “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.”
Not only can we talk to God and He will listen, but here is another promise.
We can seek the Lord.
He will be found by us.
God explains and encourages us to seek Him with all of our heart.
Through Jesus Christ these things are true for the Christian.
You can seek and find the Lord.
Follow His instruction, put your whole and entire heart into it.
Be sincere.
You will find Him.
Again, here's how this verse reads in the NLT. Jeremiah 29:13 “If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me.”
So, let's be earnest and find the Lord.
Questions:
1. Have you ever experienced God's chastening you for disobedience?
2. Do you know what it's like to reap what you have sown?
3. If so, do you know you are not alone, for we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.
4. Do you also know there is hope and blessing for you?
5. Are you in a place where you want to seek the Lord?
6. Will you have the confidence that You will find Him?
A Prayer:
Our Father in heaven, may Your name be hallowed in our lives. There is no one like You, Lord. You alone are the true and living God.
Father, Your warnings are sometimes not taken seriously, and we then find that You meant what You said, and we wind up suffering for our disobedience. But, even though we have gotten ourselves in trouble, as it were, You hold out a bright hope and future for us.
Thank You for having such loving thoughts towards us, and thank You for promising us such a great future.
We are overwhelmed with joy when we think about the joy of being with You, and the glories of heaven.
Thank You for making promises that will come true.
We love You, Father. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Jeremiah 29:10 “For thus says the LORD: After seventy years are completed at Babylon, I will visit you and perform My good word toward you, and cause you to return to this place.”
Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
Jeremiah 29:12 “Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.”
Jeremiah 29:13 “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/16/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
These verses spoken by God through Jeremiah to the children of Judah about what God was going to do.
The people would because of their rebellion and disobedience be taken into captivity by the Babylonians and held there for 70 long years.
But, following those years God was going to visit them and bring blessings upon them, returning them to their homeland. God goes into great detail here about what His thoughts are towards His people. These are some of the most wonderful and encouraging verses in the Bible. I pray that you make them your own, and find tremendous blessing by believing.
1. God's judgement and chastening is followed by God's blessing.
Jeremiah 29:10 “For thus says the LORD: After seventy years are completed at Babylon, I will visit you and perform My good word toward you, and cause you to return to this place.”
Disobedience does not bring blessing.
Judgment came upon God's people because of their disobedience.
But even in the darkest hour God always expresses hope for His people.
It's no different today. There is hope for You also.
God promises to perform His Word.
God cannot lie.
God called it "His good word”.
And good it was.
God brought His people back to their homeland.
2. Here's what God was thinking about and towards His people.
Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.”
God thinks.
God knows what His thoughts are just as you know what Yours are.
God's thoughts are towards His people.
God is thinking about you also.
God's thoughts are thoughts of peace and not of evil (or destruction).
God's plan and purpose is to give His people a future and hope.
God also has a plan and purpose for your future.
Here's how it reads in the NLT "For I know the plans I have for you,” says the LORD. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope."
3. God's people can call upon Him, or pray to Him, and He will listen to them.
Jeremiah 29:12 “Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you.”
What a wonder to behold.
A person can talk to God.
God will hear and listen to that person.
You can, as a Christian, speak to and with God.
God as your Father will hear you and listen to you.
What a blessing it is to know this about our God.
4. You can seek the Lord, and He promises You will find Him when You search for Him with all your heart.
Jeremiah 29:13 “And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart.”
Not only can we talk to God and He will listen, but here is another promise.
We can seek the Lord.
He will be found by us.
God explains and encourages us to seek Him with all of our heart.
Through Jesus Christ these things are true for the Christian.
You can seek and find the Lord.
Follow His instruction, put your whole and entire heart into it.
Be sincere.
You will find Him.
Again, here's how this verse reads in the NLT. Jeremiah 29:13 “If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me.”
So, let's be earnest and find the Lord.
Questions:
1. Have you ever experienced God's chastening you for disobedience?
2. Do you know what it's like to reap what you have sown?
3. If so, do you know you are not alone, for we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.
4. Do you also know there is hope and blessing for you?
5. Are you in a place where you want to seek the Lord?
6. Will you have the confidence that You will find Him?
A Prayer:
Our Father in heaven, may Your name be hallowed in our lives. There is no one like You, Lord. You alone are the true and living God.
Father, Your warnings are sometimes not taken seriously, and we then find that You meant what You said, and we wind up suffering for our disobedience. But, even though we have gotten ourselves in trouble, as it were, You hold out a bright hope and future for us.
Thank You for having such loving thoughts towards us, and thank You for promising us such a great future.
We are overwhelmed with joy when we think about the joy of being with You, and the glories of heaven.
Thank You for making promises that will come true.
We love You, Father. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SOME IMPORTANT THINGS TO PRAY FOR"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SOME IMPORTANT THINGS TO PRAY FOR"
2nd Thessalonians 3:1 “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you,”
2nd Thessalonians 3:2 “and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith.”
2nd Thessalonians 3:3 “But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.”
2nd Thessalonians 3:4 “And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, both that you do and will do the things we command you.”
2nd Thessalonians 3:5 “Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/15/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
These verses come at the end of this short 3 chapter letter to this congregation in Thessalonica. The letter dealt primarily with Paul trying to protect the church against false teaching regarding the last days, leading to the 2nd coming of Christ. And, with some other problems that had arisen in the church by members who had stopped working since they believed Jesus could come at any moment, and now were in need of financial aid, and had thus become a burden to the body there. But these verses today, are of a more personal note, requesting prayer and that the gospel would be advanced. Also, a clear and sobering truth about some men. And a promise of what God will do in the hearts of His people. May this encourage you, build you up, equip you and bless your walk with our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.
1. We can pray for God's Word to run swiftly and be glorified.
2nd Thessalonians 3:1 “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you,”
God has a message that He has committed to us to preach and teach.
Through prayer we can help God's Word to spread rapidly as it should.
Specifically we can pray for those who minister the Word of God in this respect.
God's Word deserves to be honored, and we pray that it will be by those who preach it and hear it.
2. We can pray for those who minister the Word to be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men.
2nd Thessalonians 3:2 “and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith.”
Here is something else to pray for regarding the Word of God.
That those who preach it and teach it will be saved from wicked and evil people.
The reason for this prayer, is that not everyone believes in the Lord.
There are many, many adversaries against the Word of God.
Prayer is a weapon God has given us to help further the progress of His Word in this needy world.
3. We have a promise from God who is faithful to establish His children and guard them from the evil one.
2nd Thessalonians 3:3 “But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.”
On another note.
God is faithful, or dependable.
He will do just as He has promised to do.
He will make His people strong.
He will guard them from the evil one.
Being kept from the evil one is something Jesus encouraged us to pray for.
We are living in a spiritual battle zone.
The world is filled with "spiritual terrorists" who are bent on the destruction of God's Work in Christ.
4. We can have confidence in the Lord to do in us what He calls us to do.
2nd Thessalonians 3:4 “And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, both that you do and will do the things we command you.”
What a blessing to have confidence in the Lord as Paul did.
We can have that same confidence, because of God's faithfulness and power.
We ought to hope and pray for one another that we are not just hearers but doers of the Word.
And that we would be careful to maintain good works, and finish our course with joy.
5. We can pray for God to direct our hearts into His love, and into the patience of Christ.
2nd Thessalonians 3:5 “Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ.”
A final thing to pray for in our own lives personally.
That the Lord would bring us into an even deeper understanding of the love of God.
Also, that we would be brought into the endurance that comes from our Lord Jesus Christ.
God is able to direct His children into both of these things.
God's love and God's patience of endurance of great blessings to have.
Some Questions:
1. Do you know that God hears Your prayers?
2. Do you know that God will honor your prayers for His will?
3. Do you know that someone most likely prayed for you that you would hear God's Word and be saved by it?
4. Do you know that there are real unreasonable and wicked persons who are enemies of the Gospel and God's Servants?
5. Do you need God's love and patience in your life at this time?
A Prayer:
Father, what a blessing that You have left us with the written Word of God as food for our souls. Thank You for the power of Your Word and that You worked to enable it to reach our lives personally. We pray for those in our body who teach and preach Your Word that You would help them to be courageous and faithful as Your called ministers. Deliver them, we pray, from the wicked and evil enemies of the Gospel. We also thank You, Lord, for being so faithful to accomplish Your work in our lives. We want to cooperate with You, and be in Your will, and bring glory to Your most wonderful name. Your name is above every name. Direct us, Lord, into Your love and patience.
These two blessings are tremendous companions to have in our pilgrim journey to heaven. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
2nd Thessalonians 3:1 “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you,”
2nd Thessalonians 3:2 “and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith.”
2nd Thessalonians 3:3 “But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.”
2nd Thessalonians 3:4 “And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, both that you do and will do the things we command you.”
2nd Thessalonians 3:5 “Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/15/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
These verses come at the end of this short 3 chapter letter to this congregation in Thessalonica. The letter dealt primarily with Paul trying to protect the church against false teaching regarding the last days, leading to the 2nd coming of Christ. And, with some other problems that had arisen in the church by members who had stopped working since they believed Jesus could come at any moment, and now were in need of financial aid, and had thus become a burden to the body there. But these verses today, are of a more personal note, requesting prayer and that the gospel would be advanced. Also, a clear and sobering truth about some men. And a promise of what God will do in the hearts of His people. May this encourage you, build you up, equip you and bless your walk with our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.
1. We can pray for God's Word to run swiftly and be glorified.
2nd Thessalonians 3:1 “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may run swiftly and be glorified, just as it is with you,”
God has a message that He has committed to us to preach and teach.
Through prayer we can help God's Word to spread rapidly as it should.
Specifically we can pray for those who minister the Word of God in this respect.
God's Word deserves to be honored, and we pray that it will be by those who preach it and hear it.
2. We can pray for those who minister the Word to be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men.
2nd Thessalonians 3:2 “and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men; for not all have faith.”
Here is something else to pray for regarding the Word of God.
That those who preach it and teach it will be saved from wicked and evil people.
The reason for this prayer, is that not everyone believes in the Lord.
There are many, many adversaries against the Word of God.
Prayer is a weapon God has given us to help further the progress of His Word in this needy world.
3. We have a promise from God who is faithful to establish His children and guard them from the evil one.
2nd Thessalonians 3:3 “But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one.”
On another note.
God is faithful, or dependable.
He will do just as He has promised to do.
He will make His people strong.
He will guard them from the evil one.
Being kept from the evil one is something Jesus encouraged us to pray for.
We are living in a spiritual battle zone.
The world is filled with "spiritual terrorists" who are bent on the destruction of God's Work in Christ.
4. We can have confidence in the Lord to do in us what He calls us to do.
2nd Thessalonians 3:4 “And we have confidence in the Lord concerning you, both that you do and will do the things we command you.”
What a blessing to have confidence in the Lord as Paul did.
We can have that same confidence, because of God's faithfulness and power.
We ought to hope and pray for one another that we are not just hearers but doers of the Word.
And that we would be careful to maintain good works, and finish our course with joy.
5. We can pray for God to direct our hearts into His love, and into the patience of Christ.
2nd Thessalonians 3:5 “Now may the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and into the patience of Christ.”
A final thing to pray for in our own lives personally.
That the Lord would bring us into an even deeper understanding of the love of God.
Also, that we would be brought into the endurance that comes from our Lord Jesus Christ.
God is able to direct His children into both of these things.
God's love and God's patience of endurance of great blessings to have.
Some Questions:
1. Do you know that God hears Your prayers?
2. Do you know that God will honor your prayers for His will?
3. Do you know that someone most likely prayed for you that you would hear God's Word and be saved by it?
4. Do you know that there are real unreasonable and wicked persons who are enemies of the Gospel and God's Servants?
5. Do you need God's love and patience in your life at this time?
A Prayer:
Father, what a blessing that You have left us with the written Word of God as food for our souls. Thank You for the power of Your Word and that You worked to enable it to reach our lives personally. We pray for those in our body who teach and preach Your Word that You would help them to be courageous and faithful as Your called ministers. Deliver them, we pray, from the wicked and evil enemies of the Gospel. We also thank You, Lord, for being so faithful to accomplish Your work in our lives. We want to cooperate with You, and be in Your will, and bring glory to Your most wonderful name. Your name is above every name. Direct us, Lord, into Your love and patience.
These two blessings are tremendous companions to have in our pilgrim journey to heaven. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
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