"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE COMFORT OF GOD"
2 Cor 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort,
2 Cor 1:4 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
Some explanatory thoughts, application, and a prayer to God our Father:
1. These verses come from God through Paul in the very first part of his letter to the Corinthian church, (which was having all kinds of trouble.)
2. What Paul does here is to speak of God, and tells us a number of things about God that are such a blessing in our own lives.
3. If you read verses 3-7 of this chapter, you will notice that God uses the word comfort some 10 times. He is really trying to drive the point home.
4. The word comfort, as it's used here is speaking of far more than a passing relief of sympathy. It pictures one who stands beside us in the midst of struggle to encourage and support. The same root word is used of the Holy Spirit, our heavenly Comforter, and Divine Paraclete, ( one called alongside to help )
5. The teaching in these verses, affirm the following truths.
(1) God, who is the Father of Jesus Christ, will comfort us in the midst of adversity.
(2) This comfort will serve us in a powerful way when God uses us to comfort others.
6. One last thought here. Please notice, that Paul says, speaking of God, in 1:4 "Who comforts us in all our tribulation" , and towards the end of the verse say, "we ourselves are comforted by God" I like the word, "all" because it leaves nothing out. Whatever you may be going through, God can comfort you. He is with You, and He is with you to comfort you. And, He will use that comfort He gives you to one day comfort others who need comfort.
A prayer:
Lord, this is such a wonderful passage of Scripture. (what part of Your Word isn't) but, this one seems to strike home in a way that hits the spot in so many lives. Thank You for being the God of all comfort, who comforts us. We pray that we would receive Your comfort, and that we might be used by You to share that same comfort with others who need it. For we are not the only ones, that's for sure. In Jesus name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Monday, December 16, 2013
"HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S LEADING AND HIS TIMING IN OUR LIVES"
"HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S LEADING AND HIS TIMING IN OUR LIVES"
1st Cor 16:6 And it may be that I will remain, or even spend the winter with you, that you may send me on my journey, wherever I go.
1st Cor 16:7 For I do not wish to see you now on the way; but I hope to stay a while with you, if the Lord permits.
Some explanatory thoughts and application, and a prayer:
1. These two verses have to do with Paul's own plans for God's leading and timing in his life and ministry.
2. What's interesting to note, is that he did not have a clear picture at this time of exactly when, what and where etc
3. Sometimes, we may be inclined to think that people like Paul always knew the answers to God's leading and timing etc.
4. The truth is, that sometimes they did, and sometimes they did not. Just like us.
5. Uncertainty, or not knowing what God may want us to do, or when He wants us to do it, is not unusual for the Christian, but, I would venture to say, more of the norm, then the other.
6. We do not live on explanations, but on promises. And, God does not always explain everything to us when we would like Him to, but He always does give us many promises to live on.
7. We can also be confident that while we don't know what lies ahead, God does, and He knows just when, He is going to do what He is going to do. He has a plan, a timing, and He will act, and we will know for sure what we don't know at this moment.
A prayer:
Thank You Lord for Your faithfulness to us. We are not left to trudge along through this world without Your guidance and oversight. You are our Shepherd, You lead us faithfully in Your paths of righteousness. You know where we are at this moment, You know our name, and You know what You have planned for us (even this very day, the next, and the next etc, etc) So, help us Lord to enjoy the moment, rest in Your promises, and not worry about the explanations that are in Your mind. You will take care of us just as You have promised, and You will guide us into Your perfect will. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
1st Cor 16:6 And it may be that I will remain, or even spend the winter with you, that you may send me on my journey, wherever I go.
1st Cor 16:7 For I do not wish to see you now on the way; but I hope to stay a while with you, if the Lord permits.
Some explanatory thoughts and application, and a prayer:
1. These two verses have to do with Paul's own plans for God's leading and timing in his life and ministry.
2. What's interesting to note, is that he did not have a clear picture at this time of exactly when, what and where etc
3. Sometimes, we may be inclined to think that people like Paul always knew the answers to God's leading and timing etc.
4. The truth is, that sometimes they did, and sometimes they did not. Just like us.
5. Uncertainty, or not knowing what God may want us to do, or when He wants us to do it, is not unusual for the Christian, but, I would venture to say, more of the norm, then the other.
6. We do not live on explanations, but on promises. And, God does not always explain everything to us when we would like Him to, but He always does give us many promises to live on.
7. We can also be confident that while we don't know what lies ahead, God does, and He knows just when, He is going to do what He is going to do. He has a plan, a timing, and He will act, and we will know for sure what we don't know at this moment.
A prayer:
Thank You Lord for Your faithfulness to us. We are not left to trudge along through this world without Your guidance and oversight. You are our Shepherd, You lead us faithfully in Your paths of righteousness. You know where we are at this moment, You know our name, and You know what You have planned for us (even this very day, the next, and the next etc, etc) So, help us Lord to enjoy the moment, rest in Your promises, and not worry about the explanations that are in Your mind. You will take care of us just as You have promised, and You will guide us into Your perfect will. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SERVING GOD BY SERVING HIS PEOPLE"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SERVING GOD BY SERVING HIS PEOPLE"
Ist Cor 16:15 I urge you, brethren--you know the household of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints--
Ist Cor 16:16 that you also submit to such, and to everyone who works and labors with us.
Some explanatory thoughts, application and a prayer:
1. As Paul ends his letter to the Corinthians, he begins to exhort them about a number of individuals, and in doing so tells about this Stephanas and his household. They are a great example for us to follow.
2. His name, "Stephanas" means, Crowned, and comes from a word meaning, to encircle with a crown, i.e the victor in a contest.
3. He is also said by Paul to be the firstfruits of Achaia. That is, Stephanas and his household, were the first converts Paul had when he went to Corinth to preach the gospel. They received the Lord Jesus Christ as their Saviour, and were crowned with salvation if you will.
4. He and his household, after they were saved, "devoted themselves to the ministry to the saints" This is how it reads in the J. B
Phillips Translation. 1st Cor 15-16 "You remember the household of Stephanas, the first men of Achaia to be won for Christ? Well, they have made up their minds to devote their lives to looking after Christian brothers. I do beg you to recognize them as Christ’s ministers, and to extend your recognition to all their helpers and workers."
5. So, what a tremendous example to follow. Be saved by faith in Jesus Christ. And, then, grow as disciples learning about Christ, following Him, and becoming like Him, and "devoting oneself to the ministry of the saints" This man and his family had one thing in mind, they wanted to serve God by serving His people. What a good example to follow.
A prayer:
Father, thank You for showing us good examples, and what we can do with our own lives. You have worked in the lives of the Household of Stephanas, whom we will meet in heaven one day. May what was said of them, be said of us also. Baptize us today Lord in the Holy Spirit of God. Please help us to set our hearts upon You, and Your will, and to live the way that You call us to live.
We are very blessed, and very enthused these days, as we sense You working in our lives. Thank You Lord..
In Jesus name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Ist Cor 16:15 I urge you, brethren--you know the household of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have devoted themselves to the ministry of the saints--
Ist Cor 16:16 that you also submit to such, and to everyone who works and labors with us.
Some explanatory thoughts, application and a prayer:
1. As Paul ends his letter to the Corinthians, he begins to exhort them about a number of individuals, and in doing so tells about this Stephanas and his household. They are a great example for us to follow.
2. His name, "Stephanas" means, Crowned, and comes from a word meaning, to encircle with a crown, i.e the victor in a contest.
3. He is also said by Paul to be the firstfruits of Achaia. That is, Stephanas and his household, were the first converts Paul had when he went to Corinth to preach the gospel. They received the Lord Jesus Christ as their Saviour, and were crowned with salvation if you will.
4. He and his household, after they were saved, "devoted themselves to the ministry to the saints" This is how it reads in the J. B
Phillips Translation. 1st Cor 15-16 "You remember the household of Stephanas, the first men of Achaia to be won for Christ? Well, they have made up their minds to devote their lives to looking after Christian brothers. I do beg you to recognize them as Christ’s ministers, and to extend your recognition to all their helpers and workers."
5. So, what a tremendous example to follow. Be saved by faith in Jesus Christ. And, then, grow as disciples learning about Christ, following Him, and becoming like Him, and "devoting oneself to the ministry of the saints" This man and his family had one thing in mind, they wanted to serve God by serving His people. What a good example to follow.
A prayer:
Father, thank You for showing us good examples, and what we can do with our own lives. You have worked in the lives of the Household of Stephanas, whom we will meet in heaven one day. May what was said of them, be said of us also. Baptize us today Lord in the Holy Spirit of God. Please help us to set our hearts upon You, and Your will, and to live the way that You call us to live.
We are very blessed, and very enthused these days, as we sense You working in our lives. Thank You Lord..
In Jesus name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WATCHFULNESS, STANDING FAST IN THE FAITH, AND BEING BRAVE AND STRONG, AND LOVE"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WATCHFULNESS, STANDING FAST IN THE FAITH, AND BEING BRAVE AND STRONG, AND LOVE"
1st Cor 16:13 Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong,
1st Cor 16:14 Let all that you do be done with love.
Some explanatory thoughts, application, and a prayer:
1. First of all, there are about 5 exhortations given to us in these two verses.
2. They are encouragements as to what the believers in Corinth were to do, and what we also ought to do in our walks with The Lord.
3. Please take another look at the verses. These are things that God can work into our lives, these are attitudes if you will that we can have by His grace and power. He would never ask us to do something that we can't do.
4. Here's how it reads in the Amplified version. "Be alert and on your guard; stand firm in your faith (Your conviction respecting man's relationship to God and divine things, keeping the trust and holy fervor born of faith and a part of it ) Act like men and be courageous; grow in strength" "Let everything you do be done in love ( true love to God and man as inspired by God's love for us)."
5. There is not much to add to the above, except to say, these are words that truths and attitudes that are important for us day by day. Paul recognized the challenges we face from within ourselves, the world, and the devil. But, the teaching he gave here is to help us prevail and walk in victory.
A prayer:
Father, it always seems so natural to start our prayers with saying thank You. And, thus, we do. "Thank You Father" For all of Your blessings, and for the great power and nourishment we receive from Your Word. It's so wonderful for us. We pray that these exhortations would be taken to heart by us, and we pray that You would help us to remember them day by day. One day, we are going to leave this world, and see You face to face. Then, none of these things will be needed, but now they are, so, let us walk like men and women of God, pleasing our Heavenly Father. In Jesus name. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
1st Cor 16:13 Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong,
1st Cor 16:14 Let all that you do be done with love.
Some explanatory thoughts, application, and a prayer:
1. First of all, there are about 5 exhortations given to us in these two verses.
2. They are encouragements as to what the believers in Corinth were to do, and what we also ought to do in our walks with The Lord.
3. Please take another look at the verses. These are things that God can work into our lives, these are attitudes if you will that we can have by His grace and power. He would never ask us to do something that we can't do.
4. Here's how it reads in the Amplified version. "Be alert and on your guard; stand firm in your faith (Your conviction respecting man's relationship to God and divine things, keeping the trust and holy fervor born of faith and a part of it ) Act like men and be courageous; grow in strength" "Let everything you do be done in love ( true love to God and man as inspired by God's love for us)."
5. There is not much to add to the above, except to say, these are words that truths and attitudes that are important for us day by day. Paul recognized the challenges we face from within ourselves, the world, and the devil. But, the teaching he gave here is to help us prevail and walk in victory.
A prayer:
Father, it always seems so natural to start our prayers with saying thank You. And, thus, we do. "Thank You Father" For all of Your blessings, and for the great power and nourishment we receive from Your Word. It's so wonderful for us. We pray that these exhortations would be taken to heart by us, and we pray that You would help us to remember them day by day. One day, we are going to leave this world, and see You face to face. Then, none of these things will be needed, but now they are, so, let us walk like men and women of God, pleasing our Heavenly Father. In Jesus name. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT HOW GOD GIVING US PATIENCE"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT HOW GOD GIVING US PATIENCE"
Col 1:11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and long suffering with joy;
A few explanatory thoughts, some application, and a prayer:
1. This verse is part of a prayer that Paul was praying for the believers in the Colossian Church.
2. He was praying that the Holy Spirit might strengthen them
3. You will notice that the results of being strengthened by the Spirit, result in a number of things.
4. Here's what the Holy Spirit can do in us by giving us His strength.
(1) He can and will give us all might, or power, or strength.
(2) His power is by the way glorious. The power comes from God who is glorious.
(3) For all patience, and long suffering with joy. Those are three specific things His power will give us.
5. Let's just look at each of these in some detail.
(Patience) It means, enduring, patient continuance, steadfastness, constancy. In the NT, it's the characteristic of a man who is not swerved from his deliberate purpose and his loyalty to faith and piety by even the greatest trials and sufferings. It speaks of a sustaining perseverance.
(Long suffering ) Very, very similar to patience. But, it includes the idea of patient forbearance, slowness in avenging wrongs.
(Joy) This word, means, gladness, or happiness, It's been described as a calm delight
6. So, these blessings do not spring out of us, but, rather are given to us by the Holy Spirit. We can ask Him to help us this very day. I'm certain many of us need these things from Him.
A prayer:
Father, may we start by saying thank You for being patient and long suffering with us. And, for being joyful in and of Yourself. You also give us these things. They come through the wonderful person of the Holy Spirit. And, we can ask for His help in bringing these things into our lives. Today, may be a day for many of us who sense their need for these helps from You. Lord, give us strength now for this day, in the name of Jesus.
Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Col 1:11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and long suffering with joy;
A few explanatory thoughts, some application, and a prayer:
1. This verse is part of a prayer that Paul was praying for the believers in the Colossian Church.
2. He was praying that the Holy Spirit might strengthen them
3. You will notice that the results of being strengthened by the Spirit, result in a number of things.
4. Here's what the Holy Spirit can do in us by giving us His strength.
(1) He can and will give us all might, or power, or strength.
(2) His power is by the way glorious. The power comes from God who is glorious.
(3) For all patience, and long suffering with joy. Those are three specific things His power will give us.
5. Let's just look at each of these in some detail.
(Patience) It means, enduring, patient continuance, steadfastness, constancy. In the NT, it's the characteristic of a man who is not swerved from his deliberate purpose and his loyalty to faith and piety by even the greatest trials and sufferings. It speaks of a sustaining perseverance.
(Long suffering ) Very, very similar to patience. But, it includes the idea of patient forbearance, slowness in avenging wrongs.
(Joy) This word, means, gladness, or happiness, It's been described as a calm delight
6. So, these blessings do not spring out of us, but, rather are given to us by the Holy Spirit. We can ask Him to help us this very day. I'm certain many of us need these things from Him.
A prayer:
Father, may we start by saying thank You for being patient and long suffering with us. And, for being joyful in and of Yourself. You also give us these things. They come through the wonderful person of the Holy Spirit. And, we can ask for His help in bringing these things into our lives. Today, may be a day for many of us who sense their need for these helps from You. Lord, give us strength now for this day, in the name of Jesus.
Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT ENDURING STORMS"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT ENDURING STORMS"
Luke 6:46-49
But why do you call Me Lord, Lord,' and do not do the things which I say?
Whoever comes to Me and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like.
He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock.
But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it fell. And the ruin of that house was great.
Some explanatory thoughts, application, and a prayer:
1. Jesus starts with those most penetrating and searching question. "But why do you call me Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say. Can I give you a hint here. It the doing of what Christ says that lays the foundation in our lives, an thus we can endure the storms that come our way.
2. But, back to the question. Please read it again, and think about how you would answer it. What would the appropriate answer be, and what was Jesus trying to communicate through this question. The word Lord of course means master. So, some were saying to Jesus, You are my master, but, they were not acting as if He was their master. For had they been, they would have been obedient to what He was telling them.
3. Jesus went on then to explain what two types of people are like. The one's who hear Him, and then do what He says, and the ones who hear Him, but do not do what He says.
4. The hearer and the doer is like a man who builds a house on a good foundation, and it's able to withstand the storms that will inevitably come into their lives. The one who hears but does not do, is also building a house, but, it's built on earth, not on a rock like the other man. And when the storms came upon him, he crumbled, and the ruin was great.
5. So, what's the point and lesson for us here? God's Word, when heard, received and acted upon, builds a life on a rock solid foundation that can withstand the storms of life. On the other hand, when God's Word is heard, but not really received so as to act upon it, that person is building their life on a foundation that cannot withstand the storms that will come.
6. The wise and the foolish if you will. That's how Jesus taught this same story in Matt 7. God's Word is life giving, and life saving if you will. God's Word is storm resistant, and protective in our lives from what comes our way.
7. So, storms will come, and if we want to endure them when they come, then we must take God's Word to heart, and do what He says. We are in reality, building our lives on that which will sustain us in the days ahead.
A prayer:
Father, thank You. Thank You for teaching us Your Word, Thank You for giving us Your Word.
It's so penetrating, and sensible, and heart searching, and encouraging. Your Word tells us what to do, and how to do it. We want to be the wise man who builds His house on the rock.
Help us Lord to be sober minded, and to be teachable, and to repent when we sin, and to commit ourselves to obey You. We cannot do any of this in our own strength, we need the power of Your Spirit, and the grace, mercy and love of God in our lives. In Jesus name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia,
Luke 6:46-49
But why do you call Me Lord, Lord,' and do not do the things which I say?
Whoever comes to Me and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like.
He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was founded on the rock.
But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it fell. And the ruin of that house was great.
Some explanatory thoughts, application, and a prayer:
1. Jesus starts with those most penetrating and searching question. "But why do you call me Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say. Can I give you a hint here. It the doing of what Christ says that lays the foundation in our lives, an thus we can endure the storms that come our way.
2. But, back to the question. Please read it again, and think about how you would answer it. What would the appropriate answer be, and what was Jesus trying to communicate through this question. The word Lord of course means master. So, some were saying to Jesus, You are my master, but, they were not acting as if He was their master. For had they been, they would have been obedient to what He was telling them.
3. Jesus went on then to explain what two types of people are like. The one's who hear Him, and then do what He says, and the ones who hear Him, but do not do what He says.
4. The hearer and the doer is like a man who builds a house on a good foundation, and it's able to withstand the storms that will inevitably come into their lives. The one who hears but does not do, is also building a house, but, it's built on earth, not on a rock like the other man. And when the storms came upon him, he crumbled, and the ruin was great.
5. So, what's the point and lesson for us here? God's Word, when heard, received and acted upon, builds a life on a rock solid foundation that can withstand the storms of life. On the other hand, when God's Word is heard, but not really received so as to act upon it, that person is building their life on a foundation that cannot withstand the storms that will come.
6. The wise and the foolish if you will. That's how Jesus taught this same story in Matt 7. God's Word is life giving, and life saving if you will. God's Word is storm resistant, and protective in our lives from what comes our way.
7. So, storms will come, and if we want to endure them when they come, then we must take God's Word to heart, and do what He says. We are in reality, building our lives on that which will sustain us in the days ahead.
A prayer:
Father, thank You. Thank You for teaching us Your Word, Thank You for giving us Your Word.
It's so penetrating, and sensible, and heart searching, and encouraging. Your Word tells us what to do, and how to do it. We want to be the wise man who builds His house on the rock.
Help us Lord to be sober minded, and to be teachable, and to repent when we sin, and to commit ourselves to obey You. We cannot do any of this in our own strength, we need the power of Your Spirit, and the grace, mercy and love of God in our lives. In Jesus name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia,
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S WONDERFUL MERCY"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S WONDERFUL MERCY"
Luke 6:36 “Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful."
Some explanatory thoughts and application, and a prayer:
1. First of all, this is a beautiful verse that says two basic things to us.
2. Those things are what our Father is like, and how He wants us to live as His followers.
3. The truth about God is that He is merciful. For example, consider these verses that speak of His mercy.
Ps 100:5 For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations.
Ps 103:11 For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him;
Eph 2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,
Eph 2:5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),
Eph 2:6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,
4. But, what does this verse in Luke 6:36 actually say to us?.
(it's speaking of what we are to be, i.e merciful.)
(it's speaking as mentioned what our Father in heaven is like, He is merciful)
(So, these are Jesus's words to us, as to how we are to act and to live with respect to mercy, we are to be merciful)
5. What is mercy?. It comes from a word meaning to have compassion, and it means to pity. Mercy is also a gift of the Spirit. All Christians, are called to be merciful, but, some have this given to them as a gift, they are very compassionate, and that is there gift and contribution to the body of Christ.
6. Mercy is often compared with justice and grace. For example, Justice is getting what you deserve. Mercy is not getting what you deserve, and Grace is getting what you do not deserve. So, by being merciful, we are not giving to people what they deserve. And, I might add, that Luke 6:36 was given as part of sermon by Christ, where He had been teaching about how we are to deal with our enemies, we are to love them, pray for them do good to them, etc, and we are to be merciful in how we live and treat others.
A Prayer:
Father, You are the Father of mercies. This entire wonderful concept has come from You, You created mercy if You will, it has flowed out from You towards us. And, You call us to be like You in our relationships, especially with those who hate us, and are our enemies. Lord, if You have given to any of us this gift, may we use it to it's fullest. And, as all of Your children, let us walk in mercy day by day, bringing honor to You. Thank You for being merciful to us Lord. You gave justice for our sins to Jesus, but You have given us mercy, thank you.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Luke 6:36 “Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful."
Some explanatory thoughts and application, and a prayer:
1. First of all, this is a beautiful verse that says two basic things to us.
2. Those things are what our Father is like, and how He wants us to live as His followers.
3. The truth about God is that He is merciful. For example, consider these verses that speak of His mercy.
Ps 100:5 For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations.
Ps 103:11 For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him;
Eph 2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,
Eph 2:5 even when we were dead in trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved),
Eph 2:6 and raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus,
4. But, what does this verse in Luke 6:36 actually say to us?.
(it's speaking of what we are to be, i.e merciful.)
(it's speaking as mentioned what our Father in heaven is like, He is merciful)
(So, these are Jesus's words to us, as to how we are to act and to live with respect to mercy, we are to be merciful)
5. What is mercy?. It comes from a word meaning to have compassion, and it means to pity. Mercy is also a gift of the Spirit. All Christians, are called to be merciful, but, some have this given to them as a gift, they are very compassionate, and that is there gift and contribution to the body of Christ.
6. Mercy is often compared with justice and grace. For example, Justice is getting what you deserve. Mercy is not getting what you deserve, and Grace is getting what you do not deserve. So, by being merciful, we are not giving to people what they deserve. And, I might add, that Luke 6:36 was given as part of sermon by Christ, where He had been teaching about how we are to deal with our enemies, we are to love them, pray for them do good to them, etc, and we are to be merciful in how we live and treat others.
A Prayer:
Father, You are the Father of mercies. This entire wonderful concept has come from You, You created mercy if You will, it has flowed out from You towards us. And, You call us to be like You in our relationships, especially with those who hate us, and are our enemies. Lord, if You have given to any of us this gift, may we use it to it's fullest. And, as all of Your children, let us walk in mercy day by day, bringing honor to You. Thank You for being merciful to us Lord. You gave justice for our sins to Jesus, but You have given us mercy, thank you.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE FOR THOSE WANTING TO BE USED BY GOD"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE FOR THOSE WANTING TO BE USED BY GOD"
Mt 6:33 “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
2 Ch 16:9 “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.
Lu 16:10 “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much.
Some explanatory thoughts and application:
1. Do you want God to use You? I do. And, I'm pretty sure most Christians, deep down also want to be used by God, used by Him, to serve Him, and accomplish His will. By the way, I can think of no greater goal in life, then to seek for, and accomplish the will of God. Do you agree?
2. The Scriptures above give us 3 very important principles from Scripture that will help us accomplish this most wonderful goal, and most God honoring use of our lives and time. They are God's principles to direct us into His ways, to accomplish His will, and wind up being used by Him.
3. Here they are.
(1) Keep the Lord first in your life. We like to say 1st things first, it's also what God says, Keep Him first in your life. Put the Lord ahead of all that You do. Day by Day. Please notice, that there is a promise attached to our keeping Him first. He promises to add all the other things we need in our lives.
(2) God is looking for people whose lives and hearts are lined up with His, so He can give them strength. The word "heart and loyal" in 2nd Chron 16:9 means, the inner man, the soul, the true you, and loyal, means, fully committed to Him, all in as we like to say. The promise for this type of person, is that God wants to show Himself "strong" towards them. That is, He wants to give strength to the person who has 1st things first, and is serious about putting Him first. You will find the Lord giving You His
strength and His power.
(3) Be faithful in the small things that God puts in your way, and in your path, and calls you to do. There is a danger of waiting for God to bring some big thing for us to do, and the waiting and the looking for big things, will keep us from missing the things He has put right in front of us, and thus, we will miss out on being used by Him. He gives us small things to do, and then, He moves us on to bigger things. Why? Because, He wants to test our faithfulness. God is serious about using people in the most serious of matters in life. His work. And, He does not want to put someone to a task who He cannot depend on.
Notice what's said in this verse. Lu 16:10* “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. Least and much. These words are used twice, but in different applications. One good, and one bad.
So, being faithful in that which is least, the small things, means, that you will also be faithful in the bigger things.
4. How are we doing in the above? I wish I could say that I'm always faithful in the small things, but I want to be, don't You? I know I need God's strength even in the little things. Do you know that You can ask Him to give you His strength today, and He will. He is looking around for people who are faithful. Don't You want that to be You?
A prayer:
Father in heaven. We honor You today. We also are thankful for Your desire to use us, and to give us strength. You deserve to be 1st in our lives. Who else has done for us what You have. But, Lord, we are not always what we ought to be. Please forgive us.
And, we know Lord that we don't have to remain what we are, but, we can ask You to change us. So, Lord, that's our prayer today. Make us men and women of God who are right where You want us to be, and then give us what is needed to do what You have called us to do, be it a small or a big thing. No matter to us Lord. Let's just go into this day with our hearts open and ready to follow You with a total commitment. In Jesus' name.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Mt 6:33 “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
2 Ch 16:9 “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.
Lu 16:10 “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much.
Some explanatory thoughts and application:
1. Do you want God to use You? I do. And, I'm pretty sure most Christians, deep down also want to be used by God, used by Him, to serve Him, and accomplish His will. By the way, I can think of no greater goal in life, then to seek for, and accomplish the will of God. Do you agree?
2. The Scriptures above give us 3 very important principles from Scripture that will help us accomplish this most wonderful goal, and most God honoring use of our lives and time. They are God's principles to direct us into His ways, to accomplish His will, and wind up being used by Him.
3. Here they are.
(1) Keep the Lord first in your life. We like to say 1st things first, it's also what God says, Keep Him first in your life. Put the Lord ahead of all that You do. Day by Day. Please notice, that there is a promise attached to our keeping Him first. He promises to add all the other things we need in our lives.
(2) God is looking for people whose lives and hearts are lined up with His, so He can give them strength. The word "heart and loyal" in 2nd Chron 16:9 means, the inner man, the soul, the true you, and loyal, means, fully committed to Him, all in as we like to say. The promise for this type of person, is that God wants to show Himself "strong" towards them. That is, He wants to give strength to the person who has 1st things first, and is serious about putting Him first. You will find the Lord giving You His
strength and His power.
(3) Be faithful in the small things that God puts in your way, and in your path, and calls you to do. There is a danger of waiting for God to bring some big thing for us to do, and the waiting and the looking for big things, will keep us from missing the things He has put right in front of us, and thus, we will miss out on being used by Him. He gives us small things to do, and then, He moves us on to bigger things. Why? Because, He wants to test our faithfulness. God is serious about using people in the most serious of matters in life. His work. And, He does not want to put someone to a task who He cannot depend on.
Notice what's said in this verse. Lu 16:10* “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. Least and much. These words are used twice, but in different applications. One good, and one bad.
So, being faithful in that which is least, the small things, means, that you will also be faithful in the bigger things.
4. How are we doing in the above? I wish I could say that I'm always faithful in the small things, but I want to be, don't You? I know I need God's strength even in the little things. Do you know that You can ask Him to give you His strength today, and He will. He is looking around for people who are faithful. Don't You want that to be You?
A prayer:
Father in heaven. We honor You today. We also are thankful for Your desire to use us, and to give us strength. You deserve to be 1st in our lives. Who else has done for us what You have. But, Lord, we are not always what we ought to be. Please forgive us.
And, we know Lord that we don't have to remain what we are, but, we can ask You to change us. So, Lord, that's our prayer today. Make us men and women of God who are right where You want us to be, and then give us what is needed to do what You have called us to do, be it a small or a big thing. No matter to us Lord. Let's just go into this day with our hearts open and ready to follow You with a total commitment. In Jesus' name.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
"SHARING HOPE FOR THOSE WHO ARE GOING THROUGH A FIERY TRIAL"
"SHARING HOPE FOR THOSE WHO ARE GOING THROUGH A FIERY TRIAL"
Isa 43:1 But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine.
43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.
Some explanatory thoughts and application:
1. These words, were spoken to God's people in the OT to encourage them about the difficult fiery trials they were going through.
2. There are many truths here about God that are so comforting and encouraging, and instructive to us about God's love, care, and sustaining grace in the lives of His people.
3. Here they are.
(1) Fear not, and the reasons, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, You are mine.
(2) When You pass through the waters, I will be with you. And, through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.
4. Let's take a closer look at these truths. First of all, we are told not to fear. Fear means, to be afraid, to be dreadful, to terrify. So, the Lord is telling us what not to do, or what not to be when we are in a fiery trial. Do not fear. This is what we can do, because, God tells us to not be afraid, then, that would mean, we can not be afraid. By putting our trust in Him.
5. Then, the Lord gives some additional reasons we are not to be afraid. There are several here. "for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine." We have been redeemed, we have been called by our name, and we belong to Him. Redeemed, means, to deliver, to purchase, to avenge.
6. Lastly, the Lord says, 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. God promises to be with us when we pass through the waters, and when we pass through the fire. Please notice the word "pass through", and "walk through" This means, that though we will from time to time go through very difficult and scary times, we are going to pass through, and walk through. And, the main reason that the "pass and walk through" are because, God is with us.
7. So, God is with You. You do not have to be afraid. He has rescued You, You belong to Him, and He is with you doing the very difficult times, and He cannot lie when He says You will get through these firery times.
A prayer:
Father, Thanksgiving to You, is always so appropriate. Because, there is so much You have done for us, are doing, will do, and have promised to do in our lives. Thank You for these specific promises. We pray for ourselves, and or any others who may be going through fiery trials and deep waters. Please speak to them these wonderful truths found in these verses. In Jesus name.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Isa 43:1 But now, thus says the LORD, who created you, O Jacob, And He who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine.
43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.
Some explanatory thoughts and application:
1. These words, were spoken to God's people in the OT to encourage them about the difficult fiery trials they were going through.
2. There are many truths here about God that are so comforting and encouraging, and instructive to us about God's love, care, and sustaining grace in the lives of His people.
3. Here they are.
(1) Fear not, and the reasons, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, You are mine.
(2) When You pass through the waters, I will be with you. And, through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.
4. Let's take a closer look at these truths. First of all, we are told not to fear. Fear means, to be afraid, to be dreadful, to terrify. So, the Lord is telling us what not to do, or what not to be when we are in a fiery trial. Do not fear. This is what we can do, because, God tells us to not be afraid, then, that would mean, we can not be afraid. By putting our trust in Him.
5. Then, the Lord gives some additional reasons we are not to be afraid. There are several here. "for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine." We have been redeemed, we have been called by our name, and we belong to Him. Redeemed, means, to deliver, to purchase, to avenge.
6. Lastly, the Lord says, 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you. God promises to be with us when we pass through the waters, and when we pass through the fire. Please notice the word "pass through", and "walk through" This means, that though we will from time to time go through very difficult and scary times, we are going to pass through, and walk through. And, the main reason that the "pass and walk through" are because, God is with us.
7. So, God is with You. You do not have to be afraid. He has rescued You, You belong to Him, and He is with you doing the very difficult times, and He cannot lie when He says You will get through these firery times.
A prayer:
Father, Thanksgiving to You, is always so appropriate. Because, there is so much You have done for us, are doing, will do, and have promised to do in our lives. Thank You for these specific promises. We pray for ourselves, and or any others who may be going through fiery trials and deep waters. Please speak to them these wonderful truths found in these verses. In Jesus name.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT HAVING A MEANINGFUL PURPOSE IN LIFE"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT HAVING A MEANINGFUL PURPOSE IN LIFE"
1st Cor 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. NKJV
1st Cor 15:58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord’s work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
Some explanatory thoughts and application:
1. Do you know that God loves you? He does. The Bible tells us that God is love, and that "He so loved the world that He gave His only Son" John 3:16.
2. But, look what is right at the first part of the verse above in 1st Cor 15:58. "Therefore, my beloved brethren" This verse, is God's truth through Paul given to the Corinthians, and to all who are in Christ Jesus, to all who have come to faith. God sees you as His beloved, He loves You. Beloved, means, love of persons, to welcome, to entertain, to be fond of, to be well pleased, to be contented at or with a thing.
3. But, to the subject at hand, "Having a meaningful purpose in life" Please look closely at the verse above. Let's look at the one in the NLT. Notice what it says, 1st Cor 15:58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord’s work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
Look at this last part. "Always enthusiastic about the Lord's work, (and here it comes) for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. Useless, means, empty, devoid of truth, containing nothing, empty handed, destitute of spiritual wealth. endeavors, labors, acts, which result in nothing, vain, fruitless, without effect. Vain of no purpose.
4. So, what Paul is saying, is that we ought to always be enthusiastic about being involved in the Lord's Work, serving the Lord, because, it's never a useless endeavor. In other words, what you do for the Lord is always not vain, or resulting in nothing. God has, is, and will use everything You do for Him for some good. You are doing something meaningful for God when You serve Him, and obey Him in the work that He gives you to do.
5. Let me ask you this question. What are you doing for the Lord? What is it that God has set before you to do? What do you sense Him leading you to do?. Well, guess what, along with being enthusiastic, take great comfort in knowing it's worth it. Your service for Christ is going to amount to something, it's far from useless. Isn't that comforting to know.
6. In closing, the Bible says to redeem the time, Eph 5:16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil.Col 4:5 Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. And, the Bible says that Rom 13:11 And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed.
These verses essentially say, to take advantage of the time we have, because we are getting closer and closer to being with Jesus.
And, there is no point in wasting time. And, anytime You use to serve the Lord is not useless. So, use your time, and it won't be useless, You can take that to the bank, because God has said it.
A prayer:
Father, what a blessing to have been given purpose in life by You. You have not only given us life, but You have given us real and meaningful purpose in life. To serve You. And, in doing so, we are making a difference, it's not just going to waste. For we are doing Your will. And, You are keeping a record of our doings, and will one day reward us in heaven for the work we have done, and are doing here below. May we serve You with all of our hearts, truly putting You first in our lives, and giving it our all. We love You.
And, we are going to be in heaven before we know it, with you forever, and ever. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
1st Cor 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. NKJV
1st Cor 15:58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord’s work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
Some explanatory thoughts and application:
1. Do you know that God loves you? He does. The Bible tells us that God is love, and that "He so loved the world that He gave His only Son" John 3:16.
2. But, look what is right at the first part of the verse above in 1st Cor 15:58. "Therefore, my beloved brethren" This verse, is God's truth through Paul given to the Corinthians, and to all who are in Christ Jesus, to all who have come to faith. God sees you as His beloved, He loves You. Beloved, means, love of persons, to welcome, to entertain, to be fond of, to be well pleased, to be contented at or with a thing.
3. But, to the subject at hand, "Having a meaningful purpose in life" Please look closely at the verse above. Let's look at the one in the NLT. Notice what it says, 1st Cor 15:58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord’s work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
Look at this last part. "Always enthusiastic about the Lord's work, (and here it comes) for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. Useless, means, empty, devoid of truth, containing nothing, empty handed, destitute of spiritual wealth. endeavors, labors, acts, which result in nothing, vain, fruitless, without effect. Vain of no purpose.
4. So, what Paul is saying, is that we ought to always be enthusiastic about being involved in the Lord's Work, serving the Lord, because, it's never a useless endeavor. In other words, what you do for the Lord is always not vain, or resulting in nothing. God has, is, and will use everything You do for Him for some good. You are doing something meaningful for God when You serve Him, and obey Him in the work that He gives you to do.
5. Let me ask you this question. What are you doing for the Lord? What is it that God has set before you to do? What do you sense Him leading you to do?. Well, guess what, along with being enthusiastic, take great comfort in knowing it's worth it. Your service for Christ is going to amount to something, it's far from useless. Isn't that comforting to know.
6. In closing, the Bible says to redeem the time, Eph 5:16 redeeming the time, because the days are evil.Col 4:5 Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. And, the Bible says that Rom 13:11 And do this, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep; for now our salvation is nearer than when we first believed.
These verses essentially say, to take advantage of the time we have, because we are getting closer and closer to being with Jesus.
And, there is no point in wasting time. And, anytime You use to serve the Lord is not useless. So, use your time, and it won't be useless, You can take that to the bank, because God has said it.
A prayer:
Father, what a blessing to have been given purpose in life by You. You have not only given us life, but You have given us real and meaningful purpose in life. To serve You. And, in doing so, we are making a difference, it's not just going to waste. For we are doing Your will. And, You are keeping a record of our doings, and will one day reward us in heaven for the work we have done, and are doing here below. May we serve You with all of our hearts, truly putting You first in our lives, and giving it our all. We love You.
And, we are going to be in heaven before we know it, with you forever, and ever. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT NOT LOSING HOPE AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT NOT LOSING HOPE AND MAKING A DIFFERENCE"
1st Cor 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. NKJV
1st Cor 15:58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord’s work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. NLT
Some explanatory thoughts and applications:
1. It's encouraging to see how God views us, "beloved" that's how this verse opens up. Paul called them, the Corinthians, "my beloved" And, that's who you are with God. You are "His Beloved" He loves You.
2. We are then given a number of very specific encouragements to act on, and live out, and a reason why. These are good rules for the road as it were, especially if you may be struggling in the area of losing hope, and wondering if you are making a difference in your life for Jesus Christ.
3. Here are the things said to us. (1) Be stedfast. (2) immovable. (3) always abounding in the work of the Lord) The NLT says it this way. 1st Cor 15:58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord’s work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.1st Cor 15:58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord’s work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
4. Let's take a closer look at these 3 specific exhortations, To be stedfast means, "sitting, sedentary, firm" Or, be strong and to stand firm. To be immovable, means, to let nothing move you, to be steady, to not be moved from it's place, unmoved, firmly persistent. And, then finally, to be alway abounding etc, means, to always be busy in the Lord's work. Be enthusiastic about the Lord's work. It means, to abound, to remain, to exceed, to be great, to overflow. "Abounding" is used of a flower going from a bud to full bloom.
5. And, here's the real encouragement, it's found at the end of the verse, this encourages me to not lost hope, and to stay at my post as it were, and to know, that I am making a difference. It's a statement and a promise from God who cannot lie. Or as the NLT says, "for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless" Or as the Phillips translation says, "Be sure that nothing you do for him is ever lost or ever wasted.
6. By the way, this entire word of encouragement flows out of the earlier part of 1st Cor 15, which deal with the truth of the resurrection of Christ, and of our own future resurrection, or rapture by the Lord. We are on our way to heaven.
A prayer:
Lord, You encourage us, and You explain why we can be and should be encouraged. You have won the battle over sin, and You have brought us into Your eternal victory, and we get to serve You down here, as we wait for Your plans to unfold. Thank You for what You have done, and help us to not lose hope, and to know that in serving You, and being busy in Your work, we are making a difference. In Jesus' name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
1st Cor 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord. NKJV
1st Cor 15:58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord’s work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. NLT
Some explanatory thoughts and applications:
1. It's encouraging to see how God views us, "beloved" that's how this verse opens up. Paul called them, the Corinthians, "my beloved" And, that's who you are with God. You are "His Beloved" He loves You.
2. We are then given a number of very specific encouragements to act on, and live out, and a reason why. These are good rules for the road as it were, especially if you may be struggling in the area of losing hope, and wondering if you are making a difference in your life for Jesus Christ.
3. Here are the things said to us. (1) Be stedfast. (2) immovable. (3) always abounding in the work of the Lord) The NLT says it this way. 1st Cor 15:58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord’s work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.1st Cor 15:58 So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and steady, always enthusiastic about the Lord’s work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.
4. Let's take a closer look at these 3 specific exhortations, To be stedfast means, "sitting, sedentary, firm" Or, be strong and to stand firm. To be immovable, means, to let nothing move you, to be steady, to not be moved from it's place, unmoved, firmly persistent. And, then finally, to be alway abounding etc, means, to always be busy in the Lord's work. Be enthusiastic about the Lord's work. It means, to abound, to remain, to exceed, to be great, to overflow. "Abounding" is used of a flower going from a bud to full bloom.
5. And, here's the real encouragement, it's found at the end of the verse, this encourages me to not lost hope, and to stay at my post as it were, and to know, that I am making a difference. It's a statement and a promise from God who cannot lie. Or as the NLT says, "for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless" Or as the Phillips translation says, "Be sure that nothing you do for him is ever lost or ever wasted.
6. By the way, this entire word of encouragement flows out of the earlier part of 1st Cor 15, which deal with the truth of the resurrection of Christ, and of our own future resurrection, or rapture by the Lord. We are on our way to heaven.
A prayer:
Lord, You encourage us, and You explain why we can be and should be encouraged. You have won the battle over sin, and You have brought us into Your eternal victory, and we get to serve You down here, as we wait for Your plans to unfold. Thank You for what You have done, and help us to not lose hope, and to know that in serving You, and being busy in Your work, we are making a difference. In Jesus' name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
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