"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE MERCY AND FORGIVENESS OF OUR GREAT GOD AND SAVIOR"
Psalm 103:10 “He has not dealt with us according to our sins, Nor punished us according to our iniquities.”
Psalm 103:11 ”For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him;”
Psalm 103:12 “As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us.”
Psalm 103:13 “As a father pities his children, So the LORD pities those who fear Him.”
Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/31/14.
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
David expresses so much about God in this particular Psalm. In these four verses David talks in detail about the mercy of God and how He is do forgiving. May the Lord speak to us and open our eyes and hearts to the wonders of our great Savior.
1. God has not dealt with us according to our sins.
Psalm 103:10 “He has not dealt with us according to our sins, Nor punished us according to our iniquities.”
God does deal with people.
God has not dealt with us according to our sins.
If God did deal with us according to our iniquities, He would have had to punish us for them.
Iniquities comes from a word meaning perverse, amiss, crooked, to bend, twist and distort, to do wrong.
And, it came to mean faults, mischief, depravity.
Our Lord has not punished us for all our sins, nor does he deal with us as we deserve. That's the idea here, taken from the NLT.
2. God has great great mercy towards those who fear Him.
Psalm 103:11 “For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him;”
It's interesting and very helpful to see this word picture about God's mercy.
Here it is… As the heavens are high above the earth.
When you think of how high the heavens are above the earth, what is the picture that comes to your mind?
But that high distance is used to describe how great His mercy is.
And David adds that it's mercy towards those who fear Him.
3. Two last truths about God's forgiveness and pity.
Psalm 103:12 “As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us.”
Psalm 103:13 “As a father pities his children, So the LORD pities those who fear Him.”
David paints another word picture for us.
Here it is: ”As far as the east is from the west”.
How far is that? What comes to your mind in trying to put a measurement on it?
Anyways, that's how far God has removed our transgressions from us.
That's a long way, don't you think?
In other words they are gone.
We can measure north and south using the two poles of the earth.
But we cannot measure the east from the west. There are no poles only an infinite distance if you will.
A distance that has no end.
That's where He has removed our sins to.
And, one last thing.
God pities us like a father pities His children. God pities those who fear Him.
What does this mean?
It means this, taken from the NLT: ”The LORD is like a father to his children, tender and compassionate to those who fear him."
Our God is like a father to His children.
He is tender and He is compassionate towards those who fear Him.
Some Questions:
1. Would you take just a moment with me to let these truths soak into your soul, or soak your soul in these truths?
2. If God had dealt with us according to our sins what would He have had to do to us since He is a just God?
3. God has purposefully used imagery that forces our minds to stand in awe of the greatness of His mercy.
4. Do you think all people fear God, or do we sometimes just say we do?
5. Fearing God is important, don't You think?
6. In these days you are living in, would You say you are living in and with the fear of God?
A Prayer:
Oh Lord, how great is Your mercy and how vast is Your forgiveness towards those who fear You. May we be in that number, Lord, may we be in that number. You tell us in Proverbs 1, that the fear of the Lord is the starting point for wisdom. Help us, Lord, to pay proper reverence to You, to be respectful and to be obedient to You. Keep us, Lord, from being those who draw near to You with our mouths but our hearts are far from You. May our mouths and our hearts line up together. You deserve it, Lord, look at who You are, and how You have not dealt with us, and how You have dealt with us. You have been merciful, forgiving, and compassionate. Thank You.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Friday, October 31, 2014
Thursday, October 30, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT RECALLING TO OUR MINDS AND HAVING HOPE"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT RECALLING TO OUR MINDS AND HAVING HOPE"
Lamentations 3:21 “This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope.”
Lamentations 3:22 “Through the LORD’S mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not.”
Lamentations 3:23 “They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.”
Lamentations 3:24 “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I hope in Him!”
Lamentations 3:25 “The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him.”
Lamentations 3:26 “It is good that one should hope and wait quietly For the salvation of the LORD.”
Taken from todays reading in The One Year Bible 10/30/14.
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
Jeremiah wrote this book. It was his expression of sorrow for the destruction of Jerusalem because of their disobedience to God.
The nation of Judah had been taken captive by the Babylonians. Jeremiah wept and wept for them.
But, he also had moments of hope and encouragement such as is stated in the verses above.
If you are weeping today, may these be an encouragement to You.
1. We can recall to our minds the things of the Lord and have hope.
Lamentations 3:21 This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope.
We can know truths about God.
But we can forget truths about God.
Thus it's good for us to be reminded of the truths.
When we do remember these things, it brings hope into our lives.
2. Our God is merciful, and it’s because of His mercy that we are not consumed, and His compassions do not fail.
Lamentations 3:22 “Through the LORD’S mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not.”
Lamentations 3:23 “They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.”
Here are some truths about our God.
He is merciful. He does not give us what we deserve.
It's because of His mercy that we are not consumed.
And, the compassions, or mercies of the Lord do not fail
One other thing, God's mercies are new every morning.
God's Faithfulness or dependability is great.
3. God is our portion, He is good to us, and it's good for us to hope in Him and wait quietly for His salvation.
Lamentations 3:24 “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I hope in Him!”
Lamentations 3:25 “The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him.”
Lamentations 3:26 “It is good that one should hope and wait quietly For the salvation of the LORD.”
Here are a few last truths and thoughts to be encouraged by.
God is our portion.
God is good to us.
It's good for us to have hope in Him.
And it's good for us to wait quietly for Him.
The Lord is good to those who wait for Him.
The Lord is good to the soul that seeks Him.
Finally, it is good that we should hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.
Questions:
1. Will you take just a few moments to re-read the verses above?
2. Guess what You will find as you do? You will find hope.
3. God is our hope, and do you know that He wants You to rejoice in Him and in the hope you have in Him.
4. Waiting on God, being patient is good for us, because God is faithful. He will not let you down,
A Prayer:
Father, what a beautiful few verses that came through a heart that was so troubled by what he saw happening all around him.
Yet even in his troubles he did not lose sight of You and of who You are, and of the blessings You give, and of how it is that we receive those blessings. May we learn from these verses what You intend for us to learn. Thank You, Lord. In Jesus name.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Lamentations 3:21 “This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope.”
Lamentations 3:22 “Through the LORD’S mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not.”
Lamentations 3:23 “They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.”
Lamentations 3:24 “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I hope in Him!”
Lamentations 3:25 “The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him.”
Lamentations 3:26 “It is good that one should hope and wait quietly For the salvation of the LORD.”
Taken from todays reading in The One Year Bible 10/30/14.
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
Jeremiah wrote this book. It was his expression of sorrow for the destruction of Jerusalem because of their disobedience to God.
The nation of Judah had been taken captive by the Babylonians. Jeremiah wept and wept for them.
But, he also had moments of hope and encouragement such as is stated in the verses above.
If you are weeping today, may these be an encouragement to You.
1. We can recall to our minds the things of the Lord and have hope.
Lamentations 3:21 This I recall to my mind, Therefore I have hope.
We can know truths about God.
But we can forget truths about God.
Thus it's good for us to be reminded of the truths.
When we do remember these things, it brings hope into our lives.
2. Our God is merciful, and it’s because of His mercy that we are not consumed, and His compassions do not fail.
Lamentations 3:22 “Through the LORD’S mercies we are not consumed, Because His compassions fail not.”
Lamentations 3:23 “They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.”
Here are some truths about our God.
He is merciful. He does not give us what we deserve.
It's because of His mercy that we are not consumed.
And, the compassions, or mercies of the Lord do not fail
One other thing, God's mercies are new every morning.
God's Faithfulness or dependability is great.
3. God is our portion, He is good to us, and it's good for us to hope in Him and wait quietly for His salvation.
Lamentations 3:24 “The LORD is my portion,” says my soul, “Therefore I hope in Him!”
Lamentations 3:25 “The LORD is good to those who wait for Him, To the soul who seeks Him.”
Lamentations 3:26 “It is good that one should hope and wait quietly For the salvation of the LORD.”
Here are a few last truths and thoughts to be encouraged by.
God is our portion.
God is good to us.
It's good for us to have hope in Him.
And it's good for us to wait quietly for Him.
The Lord is good to those who wait for Him.
The Lord is good to the soul that seeks Him.
Finally, it is good that we should hope and wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord.
Questions:
1. Will you take just a few moments to re-read the verses above?
2. Guess what You will find as you do? You will find hope.
3. God is our hope, and do you know that He wants You to rejoice in Him and in the hope you have in Him.
4. Waiting on God, being patient is good for us, because God is faithful. He will not let you down,
A Prayer:
Father, what a beautiful few verses that came through a heart that was so troubled by what he saw happening all around him.
Yet even in his troubles he did not lose sight of You and of who You are, and of the blessings You give, and of how it is that we receive those blessings. May we learn from these verses what You intend for us to learn. Thank You, Lord. In Jesus name.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT HOW TO STOP TALEBEARING"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT HOW TO STOP TALEBEARING"
Proverbs 26:20 “Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; And where there is no talebearer, strife ceases.”
Taken from Today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/29/14.
A little background, application, questions and a prayer:
This subject of talebearing, or gossip is spoken of widely in the Bible.
God actually tells us about how this causes division.
And, God tells us that He hates division.
There is a good lesson here.
1. We can stop talebearing from continuing.
Proverbs 26:20 “Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; And where there is no talebearer, strife ceases.”
This verse tells us how to stop talebearing.
Just don't put the wood, the fuel, of gossip on the fire.
Soon the fiery gossip will stop.
Just consider how a fire burns.
It must have wood to continue.
If you don't put any wood on the fire what will happen?
The fire goes out.
The wood here is gossip.
2. We can also stop the strife.
Proverbs 26:20 “Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; And where there is no talebearer, strife ceases.”
Talebearing, gossip etc, cause strife.
Strife will cease if there are no logs put on the fire.
Talebearers are people who spread gossip.
If they are not around to spread their gossip the strife will cease.
3. Here's how it's put in the NLT:
Proverbs 26:20 “Fire goes out for lack of fuel, and quarrels disappear when gossip stops.”
Helpful, don't you think?
Fires will go out for lack of fuel.
No fuel means no fire.
Also, quarrels disappear (they vanish) when gossip stops.
If a gossiper stops gossiping, strife will stop.
Gossiping keeps the strife going.
4. Some definitions might help.
Quarrels comes from a root word meaning to roll in pieces.
It means a whisper, to murmur, to backbite, slander.
Gossip comes from a word meaning to judge, to contend. to act as judge and to strive.
And it means to be contentious, to sow discord, and to variant.
Some Questions:
1. Have you ever been the object of someones talebearing?
2. How did it make you feel?
3. Do you think any one of us should gossip or cause trouble for others?
4. Of course not.
5. Can we thank God together for this simple, but powerful, verse?
A Prayer:
Father, Your Word never ceases to not help us. It always goes deep into our beings and does it's work of teaching, correcting, rebuking, instructing etc, making us more complete and equipped to serve You. Which, by the way, Lord, is what we want to do.
Would You be so kind as to continue to speak loud and clear to us. We want to listen with all of our hearts. And, we want to do all that You show us to do. In Jesus’ name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Proverbs 26:20 “Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; And where there is no talebearer, strife ceases.”
Taken from Today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/29/14.
A little background, application, questions and a prayer:
This subject of talebearing, or gossip is spoken of widely in the Bible.
God actually tells us about how this causes division.
And, God tells us that He hates division.
There is a good lesson here.
1. We can stop talebearing from continuing.
Proverbs 26:20 “Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; And where there is no talebearer, strife ceases.”
This verse tells us how to stop talebearing.
Just don't put the wood, the fuel, of gossip on the fire.
Soon the fiery gossip will stop.
Just consider how a fire burns.
It must have wood to continue.
If you don't put any wood on the fire what will happen?
The fire goes out.
The wood here is gossip.
2. We can also stop the strife.
Proverbs 26:20 “Where there is no wood, the fire goes out; And where there is no talebearer, strife ceases.”
Talebearing, gossip etc, cause strife.
Strife will cease if there are no logs put on the fire.
Talebearers are people who spread gossip.
If they are not around to spread their gossip the strife will cease.
3. Here's how it's put in the NLT:
Proverbs 26:20 “Fire goes out for lack of fuel, and quarrels disappear when gossip stops.”
Helpful, don't you think?
Fires will go out for lack of fuel.
No fuel means no fire.
Also, quarrels disappear (they vanish) when gossip stops.
If a gossiper stops gossiping, strife will stop.
Gossiping keeps the strife going.
4. Some definitions might help.
Quarrels comes from a root word meaning to roll in pieces.
It means a whisper, to murmur, to backbite, slander.
Gossip comes from a word meaning to judge, to contend. to act as judge and to strive.
And it means to be contentious, to sow discord, and to variant.
Some Questions:
1. Have you ever been the object of someones talebearing?
2. How did it make you feel?
3. Do you think any one of us should gossip or cause trouble for others?
4. Of course not.
5. Can we thank God together for this simple, but powerful, verse?
A Prayer:
Father, Your Word never ceases to not help us. It always goes deep into our beings and does it's work of teaching, correcting, rebuking, instructing etc, making us more complete and equipped to serve You. Which, by the way, Lord, is what we want to do.
Would You be so kind as to continue to speak loud and clear to us. We want to listen with all of our hearts. And, we want to do all that You show us to do. In Jesus’ name, amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
“SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SOME THINGS TO REMEMBER AND WHY”
“SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT SOME THINGS TO REMEMBER AND WHY”
Titus 3:1 “Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work,”
Titus 3:2 “to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.”
Titus 3:3 “For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/28/14)
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
Titus was a pastor in Crete. Paul was writing Titus to help him set some things in order there in the church.
This letter is almost like Proverbs. It's very practical, and deals with many areas of life.
The Cretans where Titus lived were not very nice or productive people.
In fact you might say they were wicked, evil and lazy.
Paul wanted to help Titus help his flock to be Godly, and not ill affected by the society they lived in.
1. We need to be reminded regularly.
Titus 3:1 “Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work,”
To be reminded, means to be put in remembrance. To put in mind.
We are helped by remembering.
God's Word is so good at reminding us of what we need to have in our minds.
That's what Paul was instructing Titus to do.
Remind the people, bring these truths to their minds.
2. Here are some very good things to be reminded of.
Titus 3:1 “Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work,”
Titus 3:2 “to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.”
We are to be subject, or obedient to those who in authority over us.
Be that in the city, state, nation, business area, and in the church.
We are to obey.
Apparently this means we are to obey those whom we are in subjection to.
The two would go hand in hand.
Submit and obey.
We are to be ready for every good work.
Or always ready to do what is good.
Have a readiness of mind to do what is good, and not what is bad or evil.
We are to speak evil of no one.
We are to be peaceable.
We are to be gentle.
We are to show all humility to all men.
3. And here's the reason for our being reminded of the things above.
Titus 3:3 “For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another.”
We used to be different than we are now.
We used to be foolish.
We used to be disobedient.
We used to be deceived
We used to serve various, or many, lusts and pleasures.
We used to live in malice and envy.
That's what we used to be.
It's good to be reminded of what we used to be.
And it's good to see ourselves with compassion for those who are now like we used to be.
Some Questions:
1. Can you remember what you used to be like before you were saved?
2. Can you remember when God changed you and saved You?
3. Can you see the people around you are like you used to be?
4. Will you pray for compassion for those around you?
5. Will you pray for open doors to share Christ with those around you who are like you used to be?
A Prayer:
Father, You are the great changer of lives, the forgiver of sins, the giver of life, and the great Lord who wants to reach the lost through the found. You found us when we were lost, and now that we are found, You want to use us to help find others who are currently lost.
You want to add to Your family by using Your very children to accomplish the work of harvesting souls.
Wow. Thank You, Father. Use us, we pray. Like Isaiah said, "Here am I, send me”. We are here, Lord, and want to be useful to accomplish Your purposes. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Titus 3:1 “Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work,”
Titus 3:2 “to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.”
Titus 3:3 “For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/28/14)
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
Titus was a pastor in Crete. Paul was writing Titus to help him set some things in order there in the church.
This letter is almost like Proverbs. It's very practical, and deals with many areas of life.
The Cretans where Titus lived were not very nice or productive people.
In fact you might say they were wicked, evil and lazy.
Paul wanted to help Titus help his flock to be Godly, and not ill affected by the society they lived in.
1. We need to be reminded regularly.
Titus 3:1 “Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work,”
To be reminded, means to be put in remembrance. To put in mind.
We are helped by remembering.
God's Word is so good at reminding us of what we need to have in our minds.
That's what Paul was instructing Titus to do.
Remind the people, bring these truths to their minds.
2. Here are some very good things to be reminded of.
Titus 3:1 “Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work,”
Titus 3:2 “to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.”
We are to be subject, or obedient to those who in authority over us.
Be that in the city, state, nation, business area, and in the church.
We are to obey.
Apparently this means we are to obey those whom we are in subjection to.
The two would go hand in hand.
Submit and obey.
We are to be ready for every good work.
Or always ready to do what is good.
Have a readiness of mind to do what is good, and not what is bad or evil.
We are to speak evil of no one.
We are to be peaceable.
We are to be gentle.
We are to show all humility to all men.
3. And here's the reason for our being reminded of the things above.
Titus 3:3 “For we ourselves were also once foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving various lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another.”
We used to be different than we are now.
We used to be foolish.
We used to be disobedient.
We used to be deceived
We used to serve various, or many, lusts and pleasures.
We used to live in malice and envy.
That's what we used to be.
It's good to be reminded of what we used to be.
And it's good to see ourselves with compassion for those who are now like we used to be.
Some Questions:
1. Can you remember what you used to be like before you were saved?
2. Can you remember when God changed you and saved You?
3. Can you see the people around you are like you used to be?
4. Will you pray for compassion for those around you?
5. Will you pray for open doors to share Christ with those around you who are like you used to be?
A Prayer:
Father, You are the great changer of lives, the forgiver of sins, the giver of life, and the great Lord who wants to reach the lost through the found. You found us when we were lost, and now that we are found, You want to use us to help find others who are currently lost.
You want to add to Your family by using Your very children to accomplish the work of harvesting souls.
Wow. Thank You, Father. Use us, we pray. Like Isaiah said, "Here am I, send me”. We are here, Lord, and want to be useful to accomplish Your purposes. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Monday, October 27, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT NOT BEING MEDDLERS"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT NOT BEING MEDDLERS"
Proverbs 26:17 “He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own Is like one who takes a dog by the ears.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible, 10/27/14)
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
Proverbs is the Book in the Bible that has 31 chapters. It's God's instruction manual for us of how live day by day with His wisdom.
He has given us the right amount of chapters, basically one chapter for each day of every month. We need His wisdom every day.
And He gives it to us right here in Proverbs. This book teaches us how avoid danger and find the blessings of God in our lives, and how to be a blessing to others. Just like Jesus Christ is the greatest blessing a human being could have in their lives.
1. We pass by, or are made aware of, many things in our lives day by day.
Proverbs 26:17 “He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own Is like one who takes a dog by the ears.”
God may allow us to see something of someone else's circumstance.
Perhaps He allows it so we can pray for it.
That would be a good use of our lives.
2. We can make a huge mistake when we pass by someone else's situation.
Proverbs 26:17 “He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own Is like one who takes a dog by the ears.”
The mistake is called "meddling”.
Notice how the Lord put it:
Proverbs 26:17 “He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own Is like one who takes a dog by the ears.”
What is the mistake?
Well for one, the quarrel is not our own.
It's not our business.
It's someone else's issue.
And, it's a mistake to stick our nose into it.
3. If we make the mistake of meddling we are in for a surprise and trouble.
Proverbs 26:17 “He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own Is like one who takes a dog by the ears.”
Look how God describes it, and what will happen.
You have to use your imagination here.
But, imagine what happens when you pick up a dog by it's ears.
First of all it's going to bring pain to the dog.
Secondly, the dog will probably try and bite you.
And most likely will succeed in hurting you.
4. Here's how the NLT gives this verse:
Proverbs 26:17 “Yanking a dog’s ears is as foolish as interfering in someone else’s argument.”
It's foolish to mind someone else's business.
Other people may have arguments and issues that belong to them.
It's not a wise thing to jump into what is going on in their lives.
It will not help, it will only hurt.
5. Today the world of social media provides a trap for this foolishness.
Blogs and bloggers can be edifying or they can be hurtful and foolish.
God has allowed social media to be part of our culture today.
Let's try to use it for His glory and His honor and the good of others.
Questions:
1. If you are like me, I'll bet you have made this mistake.
2. Have you found this verse to be true?
3. Clearly, all of what is in the Bible is true, but this truth is only known by those who have not heeded it.
4. Do you think that God may allow you to know of someone else's situation, so you can pray for them, or learn from it?
5. Let's resolve right now to try the best we can to heed God's wise counsel in this matter.
A Prayer:
Father, You have many many children, and many many who are not yet Your children. And the world is full of tribulation, governed on one level by the devil and his demons. Trouble and sin are everywhere we look. People are fighting and arguing all the time. Lord, help us to be wise as we travel through this world day by day. We have enough of our own troubles and need wisdom to find our own way and Your will. Keep us from foolishness, and make us intercessors for the needs of others. We love You, Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Proverbs 26:17 “He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own Is like one who takes a dog by the ears.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible, 10/27/14)
Some background, application, questions and a prayer:
Proverbs is the Book in the Bible that has 31 chapters. It's God's instruction manual for us of how live day by day with His wisdom.
He has given us the right amount of chapters, basically one chapter for each day of every month. We need His wisdom every day.
And He gives it to us right here in Proverbs. This book teaches us how avoid danger and find the blessings of God in our lives, and how to be a blessing to others. Just like Jesus Christ is the greatest blessing a human being could have in their lives.
1. We pass by, or are made aware of, many things in our lives day by day.
Proverbs 26:17 “He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own Is like one who takes a dog by the ears.”
God may allow us to see something of someone else's circumstance.
Perhaps He allows it so we can pray for it.
That would be a good use of our lives.
2. We can make a huge mistake when we pass by someone else's situation.
Proverbs 26:17 “He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own Is like one who takes a dog by the ears.”
The mistake is called "meddling”.
Notice how the Lord put it:
Proverbs 26:17 “He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own Is like one who takes a dog by the ears.”
What is the mistake?
Well for one, the quarrel is not our own.
It's not our business.
It's someone else's issue.
And, it's a mistake to stick our nose into it.
3. If we make the mistake of meddling we are in for a surprise and trouble.
Proverbs 26:17 “He who passes by and meddles in a quarrel not his own Is like one who takes a dog by the ears.”
Look how God describes it, and what will happen.
You have to use your imagination here.
But, imagine what happens when you pick up a dog by it's ears.
First of all it's going to bring pain to the dog.
Secondly, the dog will probably try and bite you.
And most likely will succeed in hurting you.
4. Here's how the NLT gives this verse:
Proverbs 26:17 “Yanking a dog’s ears is as foolish as interfering in someone else’s argument.”
It's foolish to mind someone else's business.
Other people may have arguments and issues that belong to them.
It's not a wise thing to jump into what is going on in their lives.
It will not help, it will only hurt.
5. Today the world of social media provides a trap for this foolishness.
Blogs and bloggers can be edifying or they can be hurtful and foolish.
God has allowed social media to be part of our culture today.
Let's try to use it for His glory and His honor and the good of others.
Questions:
1. If you are like me, I'll bet you have made this mistake.
2. Have you found this verse to be true?
3. Clearly, all of what is in the Bible is true, but this truth is only known by those who have not heeded it.
4. Do you think that God may allow you to know of someone else's situation, so you can pray for them, or learn from it?
5. Let's resolve right now to try the best we can to heed God's wise counsel in this matter.
A Prayer:
Father, You have many many children, and many many who are not yet Your children. And the world is full of tribulation, governed on one level by the devil and his demons. Trouble and sin are everywhere we look. People are fighting and arguing all the time. Lord, help us to be wise as we travel through this world day by day. We have enough of our own troubles and need wisdom to find our own way and Your will. Keep us from foolishness, and make us intercessors for the needs of others. We love You, Lord. In Jesus’ name. Amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Saturday, October 25, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN THESE LAST DAYS"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT TO DO IN THESE LAST DAYS"
2nd Timothy 4:1 “I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom:”
2nd Timothy 4:2 “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and teaching.”
2nd Timothy 4:3 “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers;”
2nd Timothy 4:4 “and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.”
2nd Timothy 4:5 “But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/25/14)
A few background thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
These are the last words that we have recorded of the beloved Apostle Paul.
It's always said, that it's important to listen to the last words of a man before he dies.
Normally a man's last words are considered to be very meaningful.
I believe this is the case here.
1. We have a charge given us by God.
2nd Timothy 4:1 “I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom:”
Paul was instructing Pastor Timothy here.
But, in a very real sense, this is instruction for all of us in the body of Christ.
Clearly we are not all called to be preachers.
But, we are all called to serve the Lord.
We serve Him by using our gifts, time, and resources to support the work of God.
May we ponder these words given to Timothy
We have a charge also.
Our charge is before our God
He is one day going to judge the world at His appearing and His kingdom.
2. There is way to carry out our charge.
2nd Timothy 4:2 “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and teaching.”
Now we see the point of the charge.
It has to do with God's precious Word.
It is to be proclaimed.
Preach the Word, that is the charge.
We may not have the gift of preaching.
But let’s, as a team, support by love, by prayer and by service the work of preaching and teaching the Word.
God used preaching to save you if you are saved.
Preaching is God's will.
Let's get behind it.
3. We are also told of a time that is coming (and I believe is here now).
2nd Timothy 4:3 “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers;”
2nd Timothy 4:4 “and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.”
Paul tells Timothy of a time that will come.
When you read these verses, that time is described in great detail.
It has to do with men and their itching ears.
What they will not endure and what they will be interested in (to their own demise).
Men will have the Word available to them.
But they will choose to pursue and listen to fables, or non-truths.
Do you see that happening today?
4. We are told what to do in these last days.
2nd Timothy 4:5 “But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.”
Here's a simple vision statement from God for our lives in these last days.
We are to be watchful or paying attention, alert and sober minded.
We are to endure afflictions
They will come, and are coming rapidly now.
But we can endure them.
That's the way to deal with an affliction, just endure it.
Also, we are to do the work of an evangelist.
We are not all gifted with that gift.
But we can still do the work of one.
We can support those who have the gift.
We can fulfill our ministry.
We ought to accomplish the work that God has given us to do.
Jesus is coming back for us.
Let's be busy working for Him while we wait for Him.
Some Questions:
1. Do you personally feel that sense of responsibility from God?
2. Do you want to have that responsibility?
3. Do you still believe that Jesus is coming back again?
4. Can you see the days we are living in, and the interest people have in fables?
5. Will you renew yourself today in your service to God?
6. Do you know that God will readily receive you and use you beyond your wildest dreams?
A Prayer:
Father, thank You for these last and very important words of a man who was called and gifted by You and is now in heaven with You.
We are here with these wonderful words of truth that You gave him for us.
May we take them to heart today through prayer and the submitting of our wills to You.
You have such a love for people and You want to reach them through Your Word.
Lord, help us to hunger for, appreciate, listen to, obey and be supportive of the ministry.
We lovingly long for Your return, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
2nd Timothy 4:1 “I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom:”
2nd Timothy 4:2 “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and teaching.”
2nd Timothy 4:3 “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers;”
2nd Timothy 4:4 “and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.”
2nd Timothy 4:5 “But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/25/14)
A few background thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
These are the last words that we have recorded of the beloved Apostle Paul.
It's always said, that it's important to listen to the last words of a man before he dies.
Normally a man's last words are considered to be very meaningful.
I believe this is the case here.
1. We have a charge given us by God.
2nd Timothy 4:1 “I charge you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom:”
Paul was instructing Pastor Timothy here.
But, in a very real sense, this is instruction for all of us in the body of Christ.
Clearly we are not all called to be preachers.
But, we are all called to serve the Lord.
We serve Him by using our gifts, time, and resources to support the work of God.
May we ponder these words given to Timothy
We have a charge also.
Our charge is before our God
He is one day going to judge the world at His appearing and His kingdom.
2. There is way to carry out our charge.
2nd Timothy 4:2 “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and teaching.”
Now we see the point of the charge.
It has to do with God's precious Word.
It is to be proclaimed.
Preach the Word, that is the charge.
We may not have the gift of preaching.
But let’s, as a team, support by love, by prayer and by service the work of preaching and teaching the Word.
God used preaching to save you if you are saved.
Preaching is God's will.
Let's get behind it.
3. We are also told of a time that is coming (and I believe is here now).
2nd Timothy 4:3 “For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers;”
2nd Timothy 4:4 “and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables.”
Paul tells Timothy of a time that will come.
When you read these verses, that time is described in great detail.
It has to do with men and their itching ears.
What they will not endure and what they will be interested in (to their own demise).
Men will have the Word available to them.
But they will choose to pursue and listen to fables, or non-truths.
Do you see that happening today?
4. We are told what to do in these last days.
2nd Timothy 4:5 “But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.”
Here's a simple vision statement from God for our lives in these last days.
We are to be watchful or paying attention, alert and sober minded.
We are to endure afflictions
They will come, and are coming rapidly now.
But we can endure them.
That's the way to deal with an affliction, just endure it.
Also, we are to do the work of an evangelist.
We are not all gifted with that gift.
But we can still do the work of one.
We can support those who have the gift.
We can fulfill our ministry.
We ought to accomplish the work that God has given us to do.
Jesus is coming back for us.
Let's be busy working for Him while we wait for Him.
Some Questions:
1. Do you personally feel that sense of responsibility from God?
2. Do you want to have that responsibility?
3. Do you still believe that Jesus is coming back again?
4. Can you see the days we are living in, and the interest people have in fables?
5. Will you renew yourself today in your service to God?
6. Do you know that God will readily receive you and use you beyond your wildest dreams?
A Prayer:
Father, thank You for these last and very important words of a man who was called and gifted by You and is now in heaven with You.
We are here with these wonderful words of truth that You gave him for us.
May we take them to heart today through prayer and the submitting of our wills to You.
You have such a love for people and You want to reach them through Your Word.
Lord, help us to hunger for, appreciate, listen to, obey and be supportive of the ministry.
We lovingly long for Your return, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE PROMISES OF GOD FOR HIS CHILDREN"
"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.
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.
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.
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT GOD IS AND WHAT GOD DOES FOR HIS PEOPLE"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT GOD IS AND WHAT GOD DOES FOR HIS PEOPLE"
Psalm 84:11 “For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold From those who walk uprightly.”
Psalm 84:12 “O LORD of hosts, Blessed is the man who trusts in You!”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/14/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions, and a prayer:
This Psalm is said to be by the Son's of Korah. And it's a Psalm filled with praise, describing the blessings of knowing the Lord and walking with the Lord, and how wonderful it is to know Him. The Psalm ends with these two verses that speak of what the Lord is and what He will do for the man who puts his trust in Him.
1. Our God is a Sun and shield for us.
Psalm 84:11 “For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold From those who walk uprightly.”
This verse begins by telling us what God is for us.
We know that He is for us.
But here is what He does for us.
Or who He is for us.
He is our Sun and shield.
Or to put it another way, He is our light and our protector.
We need light, and we need protection.
God is both of these for His people.
We do not need to walk in darkness.
Nor do we need to live without Divine protection.
2. The LORD will give us grace and glory.
Psalm 84:11 “For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold From those who walk uprightly.”
Having told us what God is for us, now we are told what He will give to us.
He gives us grace and glory.
Grace is the unmerited, or undeserved favor of God.
Glory is a little harder to describe and understand.
But, we will one day behold His glory.
And we will one day share in His glory.
He will give us glorified bodies, just like His is today.
Glory is in my mind the sum visible total of all His attributes.
His justice, mercy, grace, power, love, joy, truth, righteousness, eternal nature, and every other thing that is told us about God in the Bible.
He will give all of this to us one day,.
We will behold His glory forever and ever.
3. No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
Psalm 84:11 “For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold From those who walk uprightly.”
This is a promise from God for His people.
It speaks to what He will not do.
He will not withhold any good thing from those who walk uprightly.
To walk uprightly, is to do what is right.
God promises not to withhold any good thing from us.
We have more good things coming our way than we can imagine.
God has promised this to us.
May we live and do what is right in His sight.
4. Blessed is the man who trusts in God.
Psalm 84:12 “O LORD of hosts, Blessed is the man who trusts in You!”
This last verse now brings man directly into the picture.
The people of God are promised something here.
This verse seems to be a prayer for God's people and a promise for God's people.
May the LORD of hosts (all the angels) is the idea.
Here's the promise.
Blessed is the man who trust in You.
Or happy are the people who trust in You.
Isn't this true.
Some Questions:
1. Have you found these truths about God to be true in your life up to this point?
2. Isn't is a blessing indeed that God would give us light and protection?
3. Don't we need both of these?
4. Do you need grace, do you need some good thing from the Lord?
5. Will you believe Him to give them to You, for He has promised to do so.
6. Have you found the joy and happiness of truly trusting in God?
A Prayer:
Father, who does not love the Psalms? And who has not found an endless comfort and blessing in reading them, and meditating on them.
You have been so gracious to give us these 150 Psalms that seem to speak to every area of our lives. They give us direction, the give us proper warnings, they tell us what lies ahead, and they tell us who You are and what You promise to do for Your people, and what You will do to the wicked and those who do not believe You. We pray for our own faith to grow, and we pray for those we know who do not yet know You, that they would soon come to faith, and begin to enjoy the blessings of being Your children. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Psalm 84:11 “For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold From those who walk uprightly.”
Psalm 84:12 “O LORD of hosts, Blessed is the man who trusts in You!”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/14/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions, and a prayer:
This Psalm is said to be by the Son's of Korah. And it's a Psalm filled with praise, describing the blessings of knowing the Lord and walking with the Lord, and how wonderful it is to know Him. The Psalm ends with these two verses that speak of what the Lord is and what He will do for the man who puts his trust in Him.
1. Our God is a Sun and shield for us.
Psalm 84:11 “For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold From those who walk uprightly.”
This verse begins by telling us what God is for us.
We know that He is for us.
But here is what He does for us.
Or who He is for us.
He is our Sun and shield.
Or to put it another way, He is our light and our protector.
We need light, and we need protection.
God is both of these for His people.
We do not need to walk in darkness.
Nor do we need to live without Divine protection.
2. The LORD will give us grace and glory.
Psalm 84:11 “For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold From those who walk uprightly.”
Having told us what God is for us, now we are told what He will give to us.
He gives us grace and glory.
Grace is the unmerited, or undeserved favor of God.
Glory is a little harder to describe and understand.
But, we will one day behold His glory.
And we will one day share in His glory.
He will give us glorified bodies, just like His is today.
Glory is in my mind the sum visible total of all His attributes.
His justice, mercy, grace, power, love, joy, truth, righteousness, eternal nature, and every other thing that is told us about God in the Bible.
He will give all of this to us one day,.
We will behold His glory forever and ever.
3. No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
Psalm 84:11 “For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold From those who walk uprightly.”
This is a promise from God for His people.
It speaks to what He will not do.
He will not withhold any good thing from those who walk uprightly.
To walk uprightly, is to do what is right.
God promises not to withhold any good thing from us.
We have more good things coming our way than we can imagine.
God has promised this to us.
May we live and do what is right in His sight.
4. Blessed is the man who trusts in God.
Psalm 84:12 “O LORD of hosts, Blessed is the man who trusts in You!”
This last verse now brings man directly into the picture.
The people of God are promised something here.
This verse seems to be a prayer for God's people and a promise for God's people.
May the LORD of hosts (all the angels) is the idea.
Here's the promise.
Blessed is the man who trust in You.
Or happy are the people who trust in You.
Isn't this true.
Some Questions:
1. Have you found these truths about God to be true in your life up to this point?
2. Isn't is a blessing indeed that God would give us light and protection?
3. Don't we need both of these?
4. Do you need grace, do you need some good thing from the Lord?
5. Will you believe Him to give them to You, for He has promised to do so.
6. Have you found the joy and happiness of truly trusting in God?
A Prayer:
Father, who does not love the Psalms? And who has not found an endless comfort and blessing in reading them, and meditating on them.
You have been so gracious to give us these 150 Psalms that seem to speak to every area of our lives. They give us direction, the give us proper warnings, they tell us what lies ahead, and they tell us who You are and what You promise to do for Your people, and what You will do to the wicked and those who do not believe You. We pray for our own faith to grow, and we pray for those we know who do not yet know You, that they would soon come to faith, and begin to enjoy the blessings of being Your children. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Monday, October 13, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT WE CAN PRAY FOR"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT WE CAN PRAY FOR"
2nd Thessalonians 1:11 “Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,”
2nd Thessalonians 1:12 “that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/13/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Members of the church in Thesalonica were experiencing some of the normal struggles and trials in life. They had gotten in touch with Paul, and he became aware of their situation. He wrote this second letter to address matters of importance in that fellowship.
These two verse are simply one of his prayers for them. But in reading these verses we can see what we can pray for in our own lives, and the lives of others. May You be blessed in Your own personal fellowship with God our Father and His Son the Lord Jesus Christ.
1. First of all we can actually pray and be heard.
2nd Thessalonians 1:11 “Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,”
The Bible is very clear about this one most wonderful truth.
We can pray, or talk to God, and He will listen to us.
In fact, prayer is something he encourages us to do.
Prayer is something that helps us find God's will for our lives.
Prayer is indicative of a healthy relationship with God.
Prayer shows that we realize we cannot do life alone, we need God.
Prayer helps us to find strength, peace, courage, and grace.
2. We can pray to our generous and gracious Father.
2nd Thessalonians 1:11 “Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,”
God is our Father.
God is more gracious than we know this side of heaven.
God takes pleasure in giving us His leadership.
God is just waiting as it were for us to say, "Lord help me today”.
God will do more than help you.
God will do many things, but He wants us to ask Him.
3. We can ask God to count us worthy of His calling in our lives.
2nd Thessalonians 1:11 “Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,”
Here is a specific thing we can pray for.
This prayer means that our God would make us worthy of the life to which He has called us to.
To be worthy, means to walk in step with Him and His will for our lives.
That our lives would bring Him pleasure.
That our lives would be a bright witness to the world of what God is like.
4. We can ask God to fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power.
2nd Thessalonians 1:11 “Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,”
Here's something else to pray for.
We can pray that God, by His power, will do all that He intends to do in our lives.
And we can pray that we will have good intentions
We can also pray that we will be faithful to walk in the good works He has prepared for us.
5. We can ask God that the name of Jesus Christ may be glorified in our lives according to the grace of God.
2nd Thessalonians 1:12 “that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Here's another specific request.
That name of Christ may be glorified in our lives day by day.
Perhaps this means that others will see Jesus in our lives.
And as they see Him at work in our lives, they will honor Him.
Whatever blessing we may bring, it's all because of, and by His grace, His unmerited favor.
Some Questions:
1. Do you ever wonder what to pray for?
2. Do you know that prayer is primarily asking God for things?
3. Do you know that God helps us to know what to ask for as we read His Word?
4. Do you know that God will answer prayer that is in accordance with His will?
5. Will you with me, ask God to help both of us to be more prayerful in our lives day by day?
A Prayer:
Father, since we have been reading about prayer, this is a good time to pray. We would like to place our heartfelt “ditto" next to, or underneath, all those things that Paul prayed for many, many years ago. The things he prayed for are just as important and needful today as they were back in the day. Lord, would You be gracious to us, and lift up Your face upon us and cause it to shine on our lives and give us peace today. Please transform our lives and use them to bring honor and glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
2nd Thessalonians 1:11 “Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,”
2nd Thessalonians 1:12 “that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/13/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Members of the church in Thesalonica were experiencing some of the normal struggles and trials in life. They had gotten in touch with Paul, and he became aware of their situation. He wrote this second letter to address matters of importance in that fellowship.
These two verse are simply one of his prayers for them. But in reading these verses we can see what we can pray for in our own lives, and the lives of others. May You be blessed in Your own personal fellowship with God our Father and His Son the Lord Jesus Christ.
1. First of all we can actually pray and be heard.
2nd Thessalonians 1:11 “Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,”
The Bible is very clear about this one most wonderful truth.
We can pray, or talk to God, and He will listen to us.
In fact, prayer is something he encourages us to do.
Prayer is something that helps us find God's will for our lives.
Prayer is indicative of a healthy relationship with God.
Prayer shows that we realize we cannot do life alone, we need God.
Prayer helps us to find strength, peace, courage, and grace.
2. We can pray to our generous and gracious Father.
2nd Thessalonians 1:11 “Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,”
God is our Father.
God is more gracious than we know this side of heaven.
God takes pleasure in giving us His leadership.
God is just waiting as it were for us to say, "Lord help me today”.
God will do more than help you.
God will do many things, but He wants us to ask Him.
3. We can ask God to count us worthy of His calling in our lives.
2nd Thessalonians 1:11 “Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,”
Here is a specific thing we can pray for.
This prayer means that our God would make us worthy of the life to which He has called us to.
To be worthy, means to walk in step with Him and His will for our lives.
That our lives would bring Him pleasure.
That our lives would be a bright witness to the world of what God is like.
4. We can ask God to fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power.
2nd Thessalonians 1:11 “Therefore we also pray always for you that our God would count you worthy of this calling, and fulfill all the good pleasure of His goodness and the work of faith with power,”
Here's something else to pray for.
We can pray that God, by His power, will do all that He intends to do in our lives.
And we can pray that we will have good intentions
We can also pray that we will be faithful to walk in the good works He has prepared for us.
5. We can ask God that the name of Jesus Christ may be glorified in our lives according to the grace of God.
2nd Thessalonians 1:12 “that the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and you in Him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.”
Here's another specific request.
That name of Christ may be glorified in our lives day by day.
Perhaps this means that others will see Jesus in our lives.
And as they see Him at work in our lives, they will honor Him.
Whatever blessing we may bring, it's all because of, and by His grace, His unmerited favor.
Some Questions:
1. Do you ever wonder what to pray for?
2. Do you know that prayer is primarily asking God for things?
3. Do you know that God helps us to know what to ask for as we read His Word?
4. Do you know that God will answer prayer that is in accordance with His will?
5. Will you with me, ask God to help both of us to be more prayerful in our lives day by day?
A Prayer:
Father, since we have been reading about prayer, this is a good time to pray. We would like to place our heartfelt “ditto" next to, or underneath, all those things that Paul prayed for many, many years ago. The things he prayed for are just as important and needful today as they were back in the day. Lord, would You be gracious to us, and lift up Your face upon us and cause it to shine on our lives and give us peace today. Please transform our lives and use them to bring honor and glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Saturday, October 11, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE WILL OF GOD FOR OUR LIVES"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE WILL OF GOD FOR OUR LIVES"
1st Thessalonians 4:1 “Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God;”
1st Thessalonians 4:2 “for you know what commandments we gave you through the Lord Jesus.”
1st Thessalonians 4:3 “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality;”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/11/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Paul had founded this church, but was only able to be with them for 2-3 weeks, and had to leave for his safety because of persecution.
He gave them a very good grounding in the Word of God while he was with them, but they had questions about living the christian life which made their way to him, and this letter contains the answers to many of those questions. These 3 verses deal with an aspect of the will of God. It's important to remember that the converts in this Greek city of Thessalonica had lived in a culture where immorality was the norm, not the exception. But now as believers, God called them to live as citizens of heaven, and to behave accordingly. May these verses help you understand God's will for your life, and maybe you can help someone else understand the will of God also. We live in a culture that encourages what the Bible calls sin.
1. Believers can be exhorted and encouraged in the Lord Jesus.
1st Thessalonians 4:1 “Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God;”
Paul was speaking as a christian to christians.
He was urging or encouraging them in their walks.
He was doing so in the name of the Lord, or in accordance with the will of God
He was encouraging them to live in such a way that it was pleasing to the Lord.
2. Believers are to abound more and more just as they have been taught.
1st Thessalonians 4:1 “Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God;”
1st Thessalonians 4:2 “for you know what commandments we gave you through the Lord Jesus.”
Once we come to faith, we are alive in Christ.
We are like newborn babies full of life but needing to grow.
As newborn babies in the Lord, we feed on the Word of God for our growth.
Growing is something that ought to keep on keeping on until we leave this world.
That's what Paul was encouraging them to do.
To abound yet more and more.
Meaning to continue putting into application what You have been taught and learned.
3. The will of God also includes our sanctification (or being holy), and abstaining from sexual immorality.
1st Thessalonians 4:3 “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality;”
God wants us to be holy.
Being holy means to live our lives for God.
Being holy means to be set apart for God's will and purposes.
God's will and purposes include our avoiding sexual immorality.
In other words we should steer clear of all sexual sin.
The world's way of living does not reveal the will of God for our lives.
One thing we can learn about the world's way of living is that it's generally the opposite of God's will.
The world does not look on sexual activity as immoral for the most part.
The Lord knows what is moral and what is immoral.
Sexual immorality only gives momentary pleasure at best.
Sexual immorality will most assuredly bring pain, sorrow, and destruction in it's wake.
That's why God wants us to avoid it, and live our lives for Him, where we find true and lasting pleasures.
Questions:
1. Have you been a believer long enough to see the truth of what is said in these verses?
2. Can you see how God wants you to keep on growing, and that it will bring him pleasure?
3. Do you know why God is pleased when you live in accordance with His will?
4. Do you think its because He knows what is best for you and how His will brings blessing into your life?
A Prayer:
Father, we are so delighted to even be able to call You Father. What a joy You have brought into our lives. We are not orphans, nor are we under the control of the evil one any longer. You have graciously and with rich mercy changed our lives. Thank you for the new life You have given to us. We want to abound more and more just like You have said in these verses. We also want to avoid what is harmful and wrong. Please help us to live in a way that is pleasing to You. And thank You for knowing what is best for us and wanting what is best for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
1st Thessalonians 4:1 “Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God;”
1st Thessalonians 4:2 “for you know what commandments we gave you through the Lord Jesus.”
1st Thessalonians 4:3 “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality;”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/11/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Paul had founded this church, but was only able to be with them for 2-3 weeks, and had to leave for his safety because of persecution.
He gave them a very good grounding in the Word of God while he was with them, but they had questions about living the christian life which made their way to him, and this letter contains the answers to many of those questions. These 3 verses deal with an aspect of the will of God. It's important to remember that the converts in this Greek city of Thessalonica had lived in a culture where immorality was the norm, not the exception. But now as believers, God called them to live as citizens of heaven, and to behave accordingly. May these verses help you understand God's will for your life, and maybe you can help someone else understand the will of God also. We live in a culture that encourages what the Bible calls sin.
1. Believers can be exhorted and encouraged in the Lord Jesus.
1st Thessalonians 4:1 “Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God;”
Paul was speaking as a christian to christians.
He was urging or encouraging them in their walks.
He was doing so in the name of the Lord, or in accordance with the will of God
He was encouraging them to live in such a way that it was pleasing to the Lord.
2. Believers are to abound more and more just as they have been taught.
1st Thessalonians 4:1 “Finally then, brethren, we urge and exhort in the Lord Jesus that you should abound more and more, just as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God;”
1st Thessalonians 4:2 “for you know what commandments we gave you through the Lord Jesus.”
Once we come to faith, we are alive in Christ.
We are like newborn babies full of life but needing to grow.
As newborn babies in the Lord, we feed on the Word of God for our growth.
Growing is something that ought to keep on keeping on until we leave this world.
That's what Paul was encouraging them to do.
To abound yet more and more.
Meaning to continue putting into application what You have been taught and learned.
3. The will of God also includes our sanctification (or being holy), and abstaining from sexual immorality.
1st Thessalonians 4:3 “For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you should abstain from sexual immorality;”
God wants us to be holy.
Being holy means to live our lives for God.
Being holy means to be set apart for God's will and purposes.
God's will and purposes include our avoiding sexual immorality.
In other words we should steer clear of all sexual sin.
The world's way of living does not reveal the will of God for our lives.
One thing we can learn about the world's way of living is that it's generally the opposite of God's will.
The world does not look on sexual activity as immoral for the most part.
The Lord knows what is moral and what is immoral.
Sexual immorality only gives momentary pleasure at best.
Sexual immorality will most assuredly bring pain, sorrow, and destruction in it's wake.
That's why God wants us to avoid it, and live our lives for Him, where we find true and lasting pleasures.
Questions:
1. Have you been a believer long enough to see the truth of what is said in these verses?
2. Can you see how God wants you to keep on growing, and that it will bring him pleasure?
3. Do you know why God is pleased when you live in accordance with His will?
4. Do you think its because He knows what is best for you and how His will brings blessing into your life?
A Prayer:
Father, we are so delighted to even be able to call You Father. What a joy You have brought into our lives. We are not orphans, nor are we under the control of the evil one any longer. You have graciously and with rich mercy changed our lives. Thank you for the new life You have given to us. We want to abound more and more just like You have said in these verses. We also want to avoid what is harmful and wrong. Please help us to live in a way that is pleasing to You. And thank You for knowing what is best for us and wanting what is best for us. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Friday, October 10, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE BLESSING OF TRUSTING IN THE LORD"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE BLESSING OF TRUSTING IN THE LORD"
Jeremiah 17:7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, And whose hope is the LORD.”
Jeremiah 17:8 “For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/10/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
Jeremiah the prophet was sent by God, as were all the other prophets, to deliver God's message to His people.
The message of the prophets was always an exhortation or invitation to return to the Lord, and to forsake their wicked ways.
It was also a message of what would happen to the people if they continued in their stubbornness and rebellion against God.
But, as with the ways of the Lord there were also very consistent bright spots in these messages.
Much like the one we are looking at today.
These verses speak of the blessing that comes to the man or woman, boy or girl who will put their trust, their faith in the Lord.
1. Blessings come to the man who trusts in the LORD.
Jeremiah 17:7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, And whose hope is the LORD.”
Blessings and trust always go together in the Bible.
God promises to bless the man who trusts in Him.
Trust of faith is always said to be "in the LORD”.
We are called to put our faith in God.
It means we believe Him, and take Him at His Word.
It means that we seek to apply His Word as He shows us how to.
2. Blessings come to the man who hopes in the LORD.
Jeremiah 17:7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, And whose hope is the LORD.”
Blessings and hope also go together in the Bible.
A man can make the Lord his hope.
A man can make the Lord his confidence.
There are many things to hope in in this life.
The Lord is always here for us to hope in.
Hoping in God, being confident in God brings great blessings into our lives.
3. Blessings consist of both being fruitful, not anxious, and a promise of continued fruitfulness.
Jeremiah 17:8 “For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit”
The blessings of God are described for us.
Like trees planted alongside a riverbank.
With roots that reach deep into the water.
These trees (or people who trust in God) will not be bothered by the heat or the long months of drought.
People who trust God will be fruitful.
Their fruit will remain, and they will continue to be fruitful.
Some Questions:
1. Do you know that God wants you to trust in Him?
2. Do you know that God invites you to trust in Him?
3. Do you know that as you trust in the Lord blessings will evidence themselves in your life?
4. Do you know that your trust in God will result in lasting and abundant fruit in your life?
5. Can you think of anyone, or anything better to hope in than God?
A Prayer:
Father, we thank You for the many promises You make to us. We thank You that You are faithful to keep Your promises.
And, we thank You that You invite us to trust in You, and to place our hope in You. You also promise us that we will experience fruitfulness as we trust in You. We trust You and You make us fruitful. How wonderful and simple.
You have created us to bear fruit, much fruit and fruit that would remain and abide.
That fruit is Love. Lord, there is no one like You, and we honor and praise You for Your goodness and Your mercy, grace, and love.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Jeremiah 17:7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, And whose hope is the LORD.”
Jeremiah 17:8 “For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/10/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
Jeremiah the prophet was sent by God, as were all the other prophets, to deliver God's message to His people.
The message of the prophets was always an exhortation or invitation to return to the Lord, and to forsake their wicked ways.
It was also a message of what would happen to the people if they continued in their stubbornness and rebellion against God.
But, as with the ways of the Lord there were also very consistent bright spots in these messages.
Much like the one we are looking at today.
These verses speak of the blessing that comes to the man or woman, boy or girl who will put their trust, their faith in the Lord.
1. Blessings come to the man who trusts in the LORD.
Jeremiah 17:7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, And whose hope is the LORD.”
Blessings and trust always go together in the Bible.
God promises to bless the man who trusts in Him.
Trust of faith is always said to be "in the LORD”.
We are called to put our faith in God.
It means we believe Him, and take Him at His Word.
It means that we seek to apply His Word as He shows us how to.
2. Blessings come to the man who hopes in the LORD.
Jeremiah 17:7 “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, And whose hope is the LORD.”
Blessings and hope also go together in the Bible.
A man can make the Lord his hope.
A man can make the Lord his confidence.
There are many things to hope in in this life.
The Lord is always here for us to hope in.
Hoping in God, being confident in God brings great blessings into our lives.
3. Blessings consist of both being fruitful, not anxious, and a promise of continued fruitfulness.
Jeremiah 17:8 “For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, Which spreads out its roots by the river, And will not fear when heat comes; But its leaf will be green, And will not be anxious in the year of drought, Nor will cease from yielding fruit”
The blessings of God are described for us.
Like trees planted alongside a riverbank.
With roots that reach deep into the water.
These trees (or people who trust in God) will not be bothered by the heat or the long months of drought.
People who trust God will be fruitful.
Their fruit will remain, and they will continue to be fruitful.
Some Questions:
1. Do you know that God wants you to trust in Him?
2. Do you know that God invites you to trust in Him?
3. Do you know that as you trust in the Lord blessings will evidence themselves in your life?
4. Do you know that your trust in God will result in lasting and abundant fruit in your life?
5. Can you think of anyone, or anything better to hope in than God?
A Prayer:
Father, we thank You for the many promises You make to us. We thank You that You are faithful to keep Your promises.
And, we thank You that You invite us to trust in You, and to place our hope in You. You also promise us that we will experience fruitfulness as we trust in You. We trust You and You make us fruitful. How wonderful and simple.
You have created us to bear fruit, much fruit and fruit that would remain and abide.
That fruit is Love. Lord, there is no one like You, and we honor and praise You for Your goodness and Your mercy, grace, and love.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Thursday, October 9, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT A HEALTHY CHURCH AND A HEALTHY CHRISTIAN"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT A HEALTHY CHURCH AND A HEALTHY CHRISTIAN"
1st Thessalonians 1:9 “For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God,”
1st Thessalonians 1:10 “and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/9/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
Paul was writing to this very young church, but a very healthy church, and seeking to encourage them in their walk and at the same time defend Himself against false accusations that were being leveled against him. One of the interesting facts of this letter is that the coming again of Jesus Christ is mentioned at least once in each of the five chapters. These two verses are a summary of this church, and a great example for you and I who are seeking to follow Jesus Christ.
1. Believers have turned to God from idols.
1st Thessalonians 1:9 “For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God,”
Prior to being saved, these people in Thessalonica had worshipped idols.
They were what we would call idolators.
But upon hearing the gospel, they turned to God.
Turning to God is also called repenting.
So, they turned from their idols to God.
These people became saved as they turned to God.
When someone repents and believes, they become saved.
2. Believers can and ought to be serving the living and true God.
1st Thessalonians 1:9 “For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God,”
Not only did these people become saved, but they became servants of God.
They had formally been enslaved to serving idols made by hands.
Now they were serving the living and the true God.
Not all christians are serving God.
But all christians are called to and invited by God to serve Him.
It's the most logical thing in the world to do.
To serve the One who has saved your soul.
3. Believers while serving God are also waiting for His Son from heaven.
1st Thessalonians 1:10 “and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.”
Along with having turned to God and now serving God there was something else.
They were waiting expectantly for Jesus to return from heaven.
Jesus Himself said He would return.
He is in heaven at this time preparing a place for us.
He has promised to come back and receive us to Himself so that we can be with Him forever.
4. Believers have been delivered from the wrath to come.
1st Thessalonians 1:10 “and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.”
Here is the wonder of our salvation.
We once were headed for wrath because of our sins.
But we now have been delivered from wrath because of God's salvation.
When we believed we were also delivered from the judgement to come.
Questions:
1. Can you remember when you were changed by God?
2. Do you remember what it was like to go from serving idols to now knowing God?
3. Do you rejoice in the hope of seeing Jesus face to face?
4. Do you know that He is coming again to get you and keep you with Himself forever?
5. And wonder of wonders, do you rejoice in the fact that you will not face the judgement of God, but will enjoy the pleasures of heaven forever and ever?
A Prayer:
Father, thank You for sending Jesus. And Jesus, thank You for dying for our sins on the cross. Thank You for rising from the dead and calling us to Yourself. We have made the most important decision we could make. Deciding to receive and follow the very Son of God, the Savior of our souls. Thank You, Lord, for the glorious freedom You have given us, and thank You for the incredible future we have in Christ.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
1st Thessalonians 1:9 “For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God,”
1st Thessalonians 1:10 “and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/9/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
Paul was writing to this very young church, but a very healthy church, and seeking to encourage them in their walk and at the same time defend Himself against false accusations that were being leveled against him. One of the interesting facts of this letter is that the coming again of Jesus Christ is mentioned at least once in each of the five chapters. These two verses are a summary of this church, and a great example for you and I who are seeking to follow Jesus Christ.
1. Believers have turned to God from idols.
1st Thessalonians 1:9 “For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God,”
Prior to being saved, these people in Thessalonica had worshipped idols.
They were what we would call idolators.
But upon hearing the gospel, they turned to God.
Turning to God is also called repenting.
So, they turned from their idols to God.
These people became saved as they turned to God.
When someone repents and believes, they become saved.
2. Believers can and ought to be serving the living and true God.
1st Thessalonians 1:9 “For they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God,”
Not only did these people become saved, but they became servants of God.
They had formally been enslaved to serving idols made by hands.
Now they were serving the living and the true God.
Not all christians are serving God.
But all christians are called to and invited by God to serve Him.
It's the most logical thing in the world to do.
To serve the One who has saved your soul.
3. Believers while serving God are also waiting for His Son from heaven.
1st Thessalonians 1:10 “and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.”
Along with having turned to God and now serving God there was something else.
They were waiting expectantly for Jesus to return from heaven.
Jesus Himself said He would return.
He is in heaven at this time preparing a place for us.
He has promised to come back and receive us to Himself so that we can be with Him forever.
4. Believers have been delivered from the wrath to come.
1st Thessalonians 1:10 “and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come.”
Here is the wonder of our salvation.
We once were headed for wrath because of our sins.
But we now have been delivered from wrath because of God's salvation.
When we believed we were also delivered from the judgement to come.
Questions:
1. Can you remember when you were changed by God?
2. Do you remember what it was like to go from serving idols to now knowing God?
3. Do you rejoice in the hope of seeing Jesus face to face?
4. Do you know that He is coming again to get you and keep you with Himself forever?
5. And wonder of wonders, do you rejoice in the fact that you will not face the judgement of God, but will enjoy the pleasures of heaven forever and ever?
A Prayer:
Father, thank You for sending Jesus. And Jesus, thank You for dying for our sins on the cross. Thank You for rising from the dead and calling us to Yourself. We have made the most important decision we could make. Deciding to receive and follow the very Son of God, the Savior of our souls. Thank You, Lord, for the glorious freedom You have given us, and thank You for the incredible future we have in Christ.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WISDOM, TIME, THE LOST, AND OUR SPEECH"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WISDOM, TIME, THE LOST, AND OUR SPEECH"
Colossians 4:5 “Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.”
Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/8/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Again, we are in the practical, i.e how to live the christian life part of the letter to the Colossians. These two verses cover many areas of our lives, and have to do with daily areas of our lives. May these very words from God in these verses exhort you, comfort you, and encourage you to live your life in a way that brings honor and glory to your creator and Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
1. We are to live wisely among those who are not yet saved.
Colossians 4:5 “Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.”
We are alive in Christ.
We are alive in this world.
We are surrounded by people who do not yet know Christ and need to, or they will perish forever.
God can and will give us wisdom as we live our lives.
He expects us and calls us to live our lives in a wise way among the unsaved.
Remember, God used Christians who were living wisely to affect you for salvation.
Now, the Lord wants to use you in the same way.
Your wise living is a powerful tool in the hands of God to reach the lost for Christ.
2. We are to make the most of every opportunity that comes our way.
Colossians 4:5 “Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.”
Our time here on earth may seem long, but it's actually like a vapor.
Vapors appear ever so briefly, and then vanish away.
That's what our life is like, it's short.
However, what God says is for us to make the most of every opportunity that comes our way.
He is talking about being aware of those who are not yet saved, and seeking to be used of God for their sakes.
We have Jesus as our example.
He worked tirelessly to reach people because He loved them, and knew their fate apart from Him.
We ought to follow His example and pray for, look for, and use each opportunity to help others that comes our way.
3. We are to live our lives in a gracious way, so that we will have the right answer for any and everyone.
Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”
Paul helps us here with some detailed how to type of instruction.
Our speech can be seasoned with salt.
Imagine that for a moment.
Your speech seasoned with salt.
Let's look again at the verse.
Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”
What he is saying is put this way in the NLT:
Colossians 4:6 “Let your conversation be gracious and effective so that you will have the right answer for everyone.”
We are to speak with grace. We are to live graciously.
We are to live in a way that is effective.
So that we can truly help give the right answers to those that need them.
Some Questions:
1. How aware are you of the unsaved around you?
2. Do you know that once you were in their shoes?
3. Can you imagine for a moment how God had planned to send people into your life to bring the good news of Jesus to you?
4. Have you considered that God wants to use your life to effect others with His saving grace?
5. Will you take a moment to re-read these two simple but powerful verses and ask God to help you live them out?
Colossians 4:5 “Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.”
Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”
A Prayer:
Father, we grow day by day more in love with You as we learn of You and experience Your work in our lives, and rejoice in the everlasting hope You have given to us in and through Jesus Christ. You have us here on earth for more reasons than we can imagine. Some of those reasons are in the verses we have looked at today. We want to say to You this morning, yes, Lord. Yes, we want to follow You and obey Your Word, and ask that You use our lives to bring blessing to others, and to bring glory to You. Your love for them is the exact same love You have for us. May we be sensitive to Your leading today, Lord, and be effective servants of God. In Jesus’ name.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Colossians 4:5 “Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.”
Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/8/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
Again, we are in the practical, i.e how to live the christian life part of the letter to the Colossians. These two verses cover many areas of our lives, and have to do with daily areas of our lives. May these very words from God in these verses exhort you, comfort you, and encourage you to live your life in a way that brings honor and glory to your creator and Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.
1. We are to live wisely among those who are not yet saved.
Colossians 4:5 “Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.”
We are alive in Christ.
We are alive in this world.
We are surrounded by people who do not yet know Christ and need to, or they will perish forever.
God can and will give us wisdom as we live our lives.
He expects us and calls us to live our lives in a wise way among the unsaved.
Remember, God used Christians who were living wisely to affect you for salvation.
Now, the Lord wants to use you in the same way.
Your wise living is a powerful tool in the hands of God to reach the lost for Christ.
2. We are to make the most of every opportunity that comes our way.
Colossians 4:5 “Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.”
Our time here on earth may seem long, but it's actually like a vapor.
Vapors appear ever so briefly, and then vanish away.
That's what our life is like, it's short.
However, what God says is for us to make the most of every opportunity that comes our way.
He is talking about being aware of those who are not yet saved, and seeking to be used of God for their sakes.
We have Jesus as our example.
He worked tirelessly to reach people because He loved them, and knew their fate apart from Him.
We ought to follow His example and pray for, look for, and use each opportunity to help others that comes our way.
3. We are to live our lives in a gracious way, so that we will have the right answer for any and everyone.
Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”
Paul helps us here with some detailed how to type of instruction.
Our speech can be seasoned with salt.
Imagine that for a moment.
Your speech seasoned with salt.
Let's look again at the verse.
Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”
What he is saying is put this way in the NLT:
Colossians 4:6 “Let your conversation be gracious and effective so that you will have the right answer for everyone.”
We are to speak with grace. We are to live graciously.
We are to live in a way that is effective.
So that we can truly help give the right answers to those that need them.
Some Questions:
1. How aware are you of the unsaved around you?
2. Do you know that once you were in their shoes?
3. Can you imagine for a moment how God had planned to send people into your life to bring the good news of Jesus to you?
4. Have you considered that God wants to use your life to effect others with His saving grace?
5. Will you take a moment to re-read these two simple but powerful verses and ask God to help you live them out?
Colossians 4:5 “Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time.”
Colossians 4:6 “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”
A Prayer:
Father, we grow day by day more in love with You as we learn of You and experience Your work in our lives, and rejoice in the everlasting hope You have given to us in and through Jesus Christ. You have us here on earth for more reasons than we can imagine. Some of those reasons are in the verses we have looked at today. We want to say to You this morning, yes, Lord. Yes, we want to follow You and obey Your Word, and ask that You use our lives to bring blessing to others, and to bring glory to You. Your love for them is the exact same love You have for us. May we be sensitive to Your leading today, Lord, and be effective servants of God. In Jesus’ name.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Tuesday, October 7, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT TO SEEK"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT TO SEEK"
Colossians 3:1 “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.”
Colossians 3:2 “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.”
Colossians 3:3 “For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”
Colossians 3:4 “When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.”
(Taken from today's reading in the One Year Bible 10/7/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
These verses are from a very practical part of the letter to the Colossians. Normally Paul will start a letter with explaining doctrinal truths as he has done in this letter, and then towards the middle or end of the letter teach on a very practical level. How to live the new life that we have in Christ. And that is what he is doing here. In fact, he is telling us here what we are to be seeking. These are wonderful verses directing us to the God who loves us, and has promised to reveal Himself to all who seek Him in sincerity and truth.
1. Christians have been raised with Christ.
Colossians 3:1 “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.”
The word "if" here actually means, "since" So, Paul is stating a fact that is true of every truly born again believer in Jesus Christ.
Believers have been raised into a new life with Christ.
Our old lives are over and all things have become new now that we are born again.
This first part of verse 1, becomes the platform that Paul is going to build on as he instructs us about what to seek and how to live.
2. Christians are called to seek those things that are above.
Colossians 3:1 “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.”
As Christians there are many things we can seek
Paul is directing us as to what to seek.
He calls it seeking those things that are above.
Or to set our sights on the realities of heaven.
3. Christians can, and are, called to set their minds in a certain place.
Colossians 3:2 “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.”
Paul gets a little more specific here.
He make a comparison about what to seek, and what not to seek.
He is encouraging us to let heaven fill our thoughts.
And, he is encouraging us not to only let the things of this earth fill our minds.
Look up and seek what is above.
That's where God wants us to place our thoughts.
4. Christians have died, and are now alive in Christ and have a glorious future ahead of them.
Colossians 3:3 “For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”
Colossians 3:4 “When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.”
Christians are said to have died, and yet they live.
We died when we placed our faith in Christ.
And we were born again when we placed our faith in Christ.
We are now alive in Christ.
In fact our lives are hidden with Christ in God.
We are safely in Christ and in God as it were.
And, here's the best part.
It's what's coming to those who are in Christ.
Jesus is coming back.
And when Jesus comes back and appears, we will appear with Him in glory.
We will then reign and rule with Him on the earth for 1000 years.
What a glorious new life we have in Christ.
What a glorious location to focus our thoughts on.
What a glorious person we are to look at.
What a glorious future awaits all true Christians.
Some Questions:
1. Do you ever wonder what to do with your mind and your thoughts?
2. Do you ever wish your mind was stronger and more filled with joy and peace?
3. Do you realize that God is inviting you to set your mind on Him?
4. Do you know that Jesus Christ views you as His friend and He wants to commune with you?
A Prayer:
Father, thank You for what You have done in giving us new life. Our old life is over. All of our sins have been forgiven. We are now in Christ, and in God and are bound for heaven. We are not only bound for heaven itself, but when Jesus returns we are going to be returning with Him. What glory awaits all true believers. Lord, You want us to behold Your glory, and one day we will. We love You, Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Colossians 3:1 “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.”
Colossians 3:2 “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.”
Colossians 3:3 “For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”
Colossians 3:4 “When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.”
(Taken from today's reading in the One Year Bible 10/7/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer:
These verses are from a very practical part of the letter to the Colossians. Normally Paul will start a letter with explaining doctrinal truths as he has done in this letter, and then towards the middle or end of the letter teach on a very practical level. How to live the new life that we have in Christ. And that is what he is doing here. In fact, he is telling us here what we are to be seeking. These are wonderful verses directing us to the God who loves us, and has promised to reveal Himself to all who seek Him in sincerity and truth.
1. Christians have been raised with Christ.
Colossians 3:1 “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.”
The word "if" here actually means, "since" So, Paul is stating a fact that is true of every truly born again believer in Jesus Christ.
Believers have been raised into a new life with Christ.
Our old lives are over and all things have become new now that we are born again.
This first part of verse 1, becomes the platform that Paul is going to build on as he instructs us about what to seek and how to live.
2. Christians are called to seek those things that are above.
Colossians 3:1 “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.”
As Christians there are many things we can seek
Paul is directing us as to what to seek.
He calls it seeking those things that are above.
Or to set our sights on the realities of heaven.
3. Christians can, and are, called to set their minds in a certain place.
Colossians 3:2 “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.”
Paul gets a little more specific here.
He make a comparison about what to seek, and what not to seek.
He is encouraging us to let heaven fill our thoughts.
And, he is encouraging us not to only let the things of this earth fill our minds.
Look up and seek what is above.
That's where God wants us to place our thoughts.
4. Christians have died, and are now alive in Christ and have a glorious future ahead of them.
Colossians 3:3 “For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”
Colossians 3:4 “When Christ who is our life appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.”
Christians are said to have died, and yet they live.
We died when we placed our faith in Christ.
And we were born again when we placed our faith in Christ.
We are now alive in Christ.
In fact our lives are hidden with Christ in God.
We are safely in Christ and in God as it were.
And, here's the best part.
It's what's coming to those who are in Christ.
Jesus is coming back.
And when Jesus comes back and appears, we will appear with Him in glory.
We will then reign and rule with Him on the earth for 1000 years.
What a glorious new life we have in Christ.
What a glorious location to focus our thoughts on.
What a glorious person we are to look at.
What a glorious future awaits all true Christians.
Some Questions:
1. Do you ever wonder what to do with your mind and your thoughts?
2. Do you ever wish your mind was stronger and more filled with joy and peace?
3. Do you realize that God is inviting you to set your mind on Him?
4. Do you know that Jesus Christ views you as His friend and He wants to commune with you?
A Prayer:
Father, thank You for what You have done in giving us new life. Our old life is over. All of our sins have been forgiven. We are now in Christ, and in God and are bound for heaven. We are not only bound for heaven itself, but when Jesus returns we are going to be returning with Him. What glory awaits all true believers. Lord, You want us to behold Your glory, and one day we will. We love You, Lord. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Monday, October 6, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOING FORWARD IN THE LORD OR GOING BACKWARDS"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOING FORWARD IN THE LORD OR GOING BACKWARDS"
Jeremiah 7:23 “But this is what I commanded them, saying, ‘Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be My people. And walk in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you.’”
Jeremiah 7:24 “Yet they did not obey or incline their ear, but followed the counsels and the dictates of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/6/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
These are God's Words through His prophet Jeremiah to the Southern Kingdom of Judah. God was seeking over and over again to call the people back to that right relationship with Him. So, He would send them one prophet after another, yet they rejected out of hand the Word of God, and eventually suffered greatly for it.
These two verses give us the way forward and also describe what can happen if God's Word is rejected, men go backwards away from God.
1. God does give commands to His people.
Jeremiah 7:23 “But this is what I commanded them, saying, ‘Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be My people. And walk in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you.’”
Here we have the message of God through Jeremiah to the people of God.
It's a simple message. And it's a message that is connected with a promise.
Jeremiah 7:23 “But this is what I commanded them, saying, ‘Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be My people. And walk in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you.’”
God was calling His people to obey His Word, and He promised that He would be their God. Very simple.
But there was more.
God also said they would be His people
And through their obedience they would walk in His ways, and it would be well with them.
What a loving God we have to tell us what we ought to do, and why, and what will happen as we do.
2, God's people can choose to obey God's command or go their own way.
Jeremiah 7:24 “Yet they did not obey or incline their ear, but followed the counsels and the dictates of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward.”
The Bible records the truth.
The truth here and at this time, and so often in the lives of people today, is found in this verse.
Jeremiah 7:24 “Yet they did not obey or incline their ear, but followed the counsels and the dictates of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward.”
God was calling the people to obey Him, and they did not.
God was calling the people to incline their ear to Him but they would not.
Instead of obedience and listening to God and going in His ways, the people listened to the counsels of their own hearts and the dictates of their evil hearts, they wound up going backwards and not forward.
Here's how these two verses read in the NLT:
Jeremiah 7:23 “This is what I told them: ‘Obey me, and I will be your God, and you will be my people. Only do as I say, and all will be well!’”
Jeremiah 7:24 “But my people would not listen to me. They kept on doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead of forward.”
In short summary all would have been well if the people had simply obeyed God. The fellowship between the people and God would have been restored. All would have been well if they would have merely obeyed God.
However, the people chose to disobey, they would not listen to God, that was the choice they made. They were stubborn and listened to their own evil hearts. The result, they went backwards away from God.
Some Questions:
1. Do you ever think about the truth contained in these verses?
2. Obedience to God brings blessing, and disobedience leads one away from God?
3. Do you ever consider the difference between a pure and holy God's Words and ways, and the evil desires of your own heart?
4. What a difference there is, wouldn't you agree?
5. Do you know that there is hope for the person who has gone backwards, it's called grace, and goodness, and it leads one to repentance and back into a fruitful relationship of blessing with God. God will receive you if you are away from Him, and turn back to Him.
A Prayer:
Father, You speak and we can hear. You speak and direct us into Your ways. We choose to listen and obey or not listen and not obey.
No wonder You taught us to pray, "lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil” (literally the evil one). There is evil within our fallen natures and there is the devil and his angels who love nothing more than for us to not listen and not obey You. They encourage us to go our own way, and they know full well what will happen. O Lord, forgive us for any sin in our lives and lead us in Your ways, Lord. May we hear, listen, obey, and enjoy the blessed life You have for us. We pray for all those we know this very day who have gone backwards and ask that Your goodness will lead them to repentance, turning back to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Jeremiah 7:23 “But this is what I commanded them, saying, ‘Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be My people. And walk in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you.’”
Jeremiah 7:24 “Yet they did not obey or incline their ear, but followed the counsels and the dictates of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/6/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, applications, questions and a prayer:
These are God's Words through His prophet Jeremiah to the Southern Kingdom of Judah. God was seeking over and over again to call the people back to that right relationship with Him. So, He would send them one prophet after another, yet they rejected out of hand the Word of God, and eventually suffered greatly for it.
These two verses give us the way forward and also describe what can happen if God's Word is rejected, men go backwards away from God.
1. God does give commands to His people.
Jeremiah 7:23 “But this is what I commanded them, saying, ‘Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be My people. And walk in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you.’”
Here we have the message of God through Jeremiah to the people of God.
It's a simple message. And it's a message that is connected with a promise.
Jeremiah 7:23 “But this is what I commanded them, saying, ‘Obey My voice, and I will be your God, and you shall be My people. And walk in all the ways that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you.’”
God was calling His people to obey His Word, and He promised that He would be their God. Very simple.
But there was more.
God also said they would be His people
And through their obedience they would walk in His ways, and it would be well with them.
What a loving God we have to tell us what we ought to do, and why, and what will happen as we do.
2, God's people can choose to obey God's command or go their own way.
Jeremiah 7:24 “Yet they did not obey or incline their ear, but followed the counsels and the dictates of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward.”
The Bible records the truth.
The truth here and at this time, and so often in the lives of people today, is found in this verse.
Jeremiah 7:24 “Yet they did not obey or incline their ear, but followed the counsels and the dictates of their evil hearts, and went backward and not forward.”
God was calling the people to obey Him, and they did not.
God was calling the people to incline their ear to Him but they would not.
Instead of obedience and listening to God and going in His ways, the people listened to the counsels of their own hearts and the dictates of their evil hearts, they wound up going backwards and not forward.
Here's how these two verses read in the NLT:
Jeremiah 7:23 “This is what I told them: ‘Obey me, and I will be your God, and you will be my people. Only do as I say, and all will be well!’”
Jeremiah 7:24 “But my people would not listen to me. They kept on doing whatever they wanted, following the stubborn desires of their evil hearts. They went backward instead of forward.”
In short summary all would have been well if the people had simply obeyed God. The fellowship between the people and God would have been restored. All would have been well if they would have merely obeyed God.
However, the people chose to disobey, they would not listen to God, that was the choice they made. They were stubborn and listened to their own evil hearts. The result, they went backwards away from God.
Some Questions:
1. Do you ever think about the truth contained in these verses?
2. Obedience to God brings blessing, and disobedience leads one away from God?
3. Do you ever consider the difference between a pure and holy God's Words and ways, and the evil desires of your own heart?
4. What a difference there is, wouldn't you agree?
5. Do you know that there is hope for the person who has gone backwards, it's called grace, and goodness, and it leads one to repentance and back into a fruitful relationship of blessing with God. God will receive you if you are away from Him, and turn back to Him.
A Prayer:
Father, You speak and we can hear. You speak and direct us into Your ways. We choose to listen and obey or not listen and not obey.
No wonder You taught us to pray, "lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil” (literally the evil one). There is evil within our fallen natures and there is the devil and his angels who love nothing more than for us to not listen and not obey You. They encourage us to go our own way, and they know full well what will happen. O Lord, forgive us for any sin in our lives and lead us in Your ways, Lord. May we hear, listen, obey, and enjoy the blessed life You have for us. We pray for all those we know this very day who have gone backwards and ask that Your goodness will lead them to repentance, turning back to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Saturday, October 4, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT 4 SPECIFIC TRUTHS ABOUT GOD'S SALVATION"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT 4 SPECIFIC TRUTHS ABOUT GOD'S SALVATION"
Colossians 1:13 “He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love,”
Colossians 1:14 “in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/4/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer.
This first Chapter of this letter, contains a very detailed prayer by Paul for the believers there. What you find in this prayer are specific things that you can also pray for, or in this case thank God for. The two verses selected here, really deal with what God has done for those who have placed their faith in Christ to save them. These truths can be known and understood by You. I pray that God helps you to grasp these and to enjoy understanding what the Lord has done for you. Let's just say thanks to God before we even get into the Devotional.
1. God has delivered you from the power of darkness.
Colossians 1:13 “He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love,”
The Bible describes our pre-conversion state as darkness. We were darkness, and we resided in the kingdom of darkness.
When you turned in repentance to Jesus Christ, you were rescued from darkness, you delivered from darkness, and you were literally taken out of that kingdom.
God transferred your citizenship.
From darkness to light.
You have been rescued by Your Savior.
2. God has brought you into the kingdom of the Son of His love.
Colossians 1:13 “He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love,”
God as mentioned above moved you from one kingdom to another.
There are only two kingdoms in the world.
We start out in the one called darkness.
But, upon our faith being placed in Jesus Christ, we are moved out of darkness into the other kingdom of light.
God has done this.
God did this through His power.
God has made Jesus the King of the Kingdom of light.
God has given you freedom from darkness.
God has delivered you to the greatest, the most loving, the most gracious and powerful king that exists. Jesus Christ.
3. God has redeemed you.
Colossians 1:14 “in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.”
What does redemption mean?
It's an important word for us to know.
It's what has happened to us.
It's what God has done for those who have believed.
Redemption means purchased.
To be redeemed, means that God personally purchased you,
God paid a price to buy you, and make You His own possession.
You now belong to God
He paid for you by and through the blood of of His own Son.
God allowed His Son to die in your place, paying for your sins so that You could become His,
You now actually belong to God.
You no longer belong to darkness or to Satan.
4. God has (through the blood of Christ) forgiven you of all your sins.
Colossians 1:14 “in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.”
Here is the 4th truth that is yours.
Forgiven.
Yes, God has forgiven you of all of your sins.
You have the forgiveness of sins.
This forgiveness was paid for by the blood of Jesus Christ.
This forgiveness covers all of your sins, past, present and future.
This forgiveness belongs to every person who has placed their faith in Christ.
This is what God has done for you.
Forgiveness means to send away.
Your sins have been removed from you, placed on Christ, paid for, and are now gone.
Your sins have been sent away never to be remembered again by God.
Some Questions:
1. Do you realize how many wonderful blessings from God there are to learn about?
2. Can you see why taking the time to truly learn about God and what He has done is important?
3. Do you know that God wants to teach You these wonderful truths?
4. Do you know that when a person learns the truths of God and combines that learning with application, their lives change?
5. What is God teaching you right now, and what might He be leading you to do?
6. Do you know that God cannot lie, and He has many blessings in store for those who obey His Word?
A Prayer:
Father, as we pray, we are doing what Paul did in his letter. But our prayer today is one of focusing in on what You have done, and it's really a prayer of thanksgiving. Thank You for the blessings that You have brought into our lives through our faith in Jesus Christ.
He is the only way to You, and it's through Him that You bless us. Jesus is the great doorway to God. Jesus is the great doorway for God to bless us. Thank You, Father. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Colossians 1:13 “He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love,”
Colossians 1:14 “in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.”
(Taken from today's reading in The One Year Bible 10/4/14)
Some explanatory thoughts, application, questions and a prayer.
This first Chapter of this letter, contains a very detailed prayer by Paul for the believers there. What you find in this prayer are specific things that you can also pray for, or in this case thank God for. The two verses selected here, really deal with what God has done for those who have placed their faith in Christ to save them. These truths can be known and understood by You. I pray that God helps you to grasp these and to enjoy understanding what the Lord has done for you. Let's just say thanks to God before we even get into the Devotional.
1. God has delivered you from the power of darkness.
Colossians 1:13 “He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love,”
The Bible describes our pre-conversion state as darkness. We were darkness, and we resided in the kingdom of darkness.
When you turned in repentance to Jesus Christ, you were rescued from darkness, you delivered from darkness, and you were literally taken out of that kingdom.
God transferred your citizenship.
From darkness to light.
You have been rescued by Your Savior.
2. God has brought you into the kingdom of the Son of His love.
Colossians 1:13 “He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love,”
God as mentioned above moved you from one kingdom to another.
There are only two kingdoms in the world.
We start out in the one called darkness.
But, upon our faith being placed in Jesus Christ, we are moved out of darkness into the other kingdom of light.
God has done this.
God did this through His power.
God has made Jesus the King of the Kingdom of light.
God has given you freedom from darkness.
God has delivered you to the greatest, the most loving, the most gracious and powerful king that exists. Jesus Christ.
3. God has redeemed you.
Colossians 1:14 “in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.”
What does redemption mean?
It's an important word for us to know.
It's what has happened to us.
It's what God has done for those who have believed.
Redemption means purchased.
To be redeemed, means that God personally purchased you,
God paid a price to buy you, and make You His own possession.
You now belong to God
He paid for you by and through the blood of of His own Son.
God allowed His Son to die in your place, paying for your sins so that You could become His,
You now actually belong to God.
You no longer belong to darkness or to Satan.
4. God has (through the blood of Christ) forgiven you of all your sins.
Colossians 1:14 “in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.”
Here is the 4th truth that is yours.
Forgiven.
Yes, God has forgiven you of all of your sins.
You have the forgiveness of sins.
This forgiveness was paid for by the blood of Jesus Christ.
This forgiveness covers all of your sins, past, present and future.
This forgiveness belongs to every person who has placed their faith in Christ.
This is what God has done for you.
Forgiveness means to send away.
Your sins have been removed from you, placed on Christ, paid for, and are now gone.
Your sins have been sent away never to be remembered again by God.
Some Questions:
1. Do you realize how many wonderful blessings from God there are to learn about?
2. Can you see why taking the time to truly learn about God and what He has done is important?
3. Do you know that God wants to teach You these wonderful truths?
4. Do you know that when a person learns the truths of God and combines that learning with application, their lives change?
5. What is God teaching you right now, and what might He be leading you to do?
6. Do you know that God cannot lie, and He has many blessings in store for those who obey His Word?
A Prayer:
Father, as we pray, we are doing what Paul did in his letter. But our prayer today is one of focusing in on what You have done, and it's really a prayer of thanksgiving. Thank You for the blessings that You have brought into our lives through our faith in Jesus Christ.
He is the only way to You, and it's through Him that You bless us. Jesus is the great doorway to God. Jesus is the great doorway for God to bless us. Thank You, Father. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
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