"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE GREATNESS OF OUR GOD TOWARD US"
Psalm 144:1 Blessed be the LORD my Rock, Who trains my hands for war, And my fingers for battle--
Psalm 144:2 My lovingkindness and my fortress, My high tower and my deliverer, My shield and the One in whom I take refuge, Who subdues my people under me.
Psalm 144:3 LORD, what is man, that You take knowledge of him? Or the son of man, that You are mindful of him?
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
This is of course, another Psalm written by the man after God's heart. In it, he tells us many, many things about the Lord, and what He meant to David. These are descriptive truths about how great our God is, and how much He really cares for His children.
1. God is to be blessed.
Psalm 144:1 Blessed be the LORD my Rock, Who trains my hands for war, And my fingers for battle--
Blessed, or bless, means to speak well of. And, that is what David was doing here. There are two specific things that he is blessing the Lord for.
First of all, he says that God is his rock.
Secondly, he says that God trains his hands for war.
Thirdly, he says that God gave him skill for battle.
David was a king, and a warrior. We are not kings, but we are involved in spiritual warfare, and the same God who trained David, trains us. All of the things that David was declaring about God in his life, are true in our lives as well.
God is our rock, we are standing on Him, He is the truth, the chief cornerstone of the household of God. And, in the spiritual battle we are in, the Lord teaches us how to fight. And, He gives us skill, or wisdom to fight the battles. Isn't that wonderful.
We like David have so much to thank God for.
2. God does many, many things for His people. and is many things for His people
Psalm 144:2 My lovingkindness and my fortress, My high tower and my deliverer, My shield and the One in whom I take refuge, Who subdues my people under me.
There is quite a list here. Let's look at them one by one.
My lovingkindness.
My fortress.
My hightower
My deliverer
My shield
And, the one in whom I take refuge.
Who subdues my people under me.
May I encourage you to just go back and take another long slow look at these truths about God. And thank Him, that He is these things for you also. And, perhaps there is something in this list that is really needed by you today. God will be that for You today. Like David, we can bless the Lord. Here's how it reads in the NLT "He is my loving ally and my fortress, my tower of safety, my deliverer. He stands before me as a shield, and I take refuge in him. He subdues the nations under me."
3. God is so in love with you, He cannot stop thinking about you.
Psalm 144:3 LORD, what is man, that You take knowledge of him? Or the son of man, that You are mindful of him?
David asks God a question here. He says, LORd, what is man, that You take knowledge of Him? Or the son of man that You are mindful of him? So, it's actually two questions, but, they are very similar. What is man to You Lord, that You are so involved with Him?
Well, the answer of course would simply be that God loves man. That's the main message of the Bible, that God loves man.
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. NLT
Here's another verse about his love for you.
Ephesians 2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us,
Here are two more that tell us how much God thinks about us.
Psalm 139: 17 How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How great is the sum of them!
Psalm 139: 18 f I should count them, they would be more in number than the sand; When I awake, I am still with You.
Some questions:
1. Have you thought about how much God really cares for you lately. ?
2. If you were to try and write out these few verses in your own words, how would you write them?
3. Isn't it something that God actually loves us and thinks of us so much?
4. Would you let these truths of God just sink in a little bit today?
5. And, would you pray to share His love with someone today. Maybe your spouse, child, friend, or co-worker?
A prayer:
Father, Your Word is such a blessing to us. In it, You reveal Yourself to us, and it is so good for our souls. You are good for our souls. In fact, there is nothing, or no one better for our souls than You. Thank You for Your love and concern for us. Thank You that we have access to You by one Spirit. We can come directly to You, and You want to build us up in the faith. We love You Lord. In Jesus name. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Thursday, June 26, 2014
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S WILL"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT GOD'S WILL"
Psalm 143:10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing.
Psalm 143:11 For the glory of your name, O LORD, save me. In your righteousness, bring me out of this distress.
Psalm 143:12 In your unfailing love, cut off all my enemies and destroy all my foes, for I am your servant.
The above Scriptures are from the NLT Version.
A few explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
This is another wonderful Psalm, most likely written by King David. In it, he is asking God to teach him to do the will of God.
Let's look at what he has to say to God about this.
1. We can be taught the will of God.
Psalm 143:10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing.
Here we see David asking the Lord to teach him to do the will of God. This is somewhat different than asking to know the will of God, rather, David is asking to be taught "to do the will of God" It's similar to asking God "to teach us to pray" Or teach us to do it Lord, teach us to be people who pray. But, here, it's teach me "to do your will" And, the basis of David's confidence, is that God is his God.
God can teach us to do His will. How encouraging.
2. God Himself is the one who teaches us about His will, and to do His will.
Psalm 143:10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing.
I'm certain this is a very important subject to God, and something He is extremely interested in, that any one of His children, would ask Him, "teach me to do Your will" It must delight His heart to no end, don't you think. Just as David knew that God was His God, so, you as a born again Christian can have that same confidence, God is your God also. You have a relationship with Him, You are His child. And, He is more than eager to teach You to do His will.
3. The Holy Spirit is the one who leads us forward in the will of God.
Psalm 143:10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing.
Here, we are given a little insight into how God actually does teach us to do His will. It's through the work and the person of the Holy Spirit. He is our resident teacher, living right inside of us. And, the Holy Spirit is indeed gracious, and He will lead us forward in knowing God's will and in teaching us to do God's will. Please notice the last part of the verse. "on a firm footing"
That firm footing is none other than the rock of our salvation, Jesus Christ.
4. God's glory is really the most important thing when it comes to anything, including the "will of God"
Psalm 143:11 For the glory of your name, O LORD, save me. In your righteousness, bring me out of this distress.
David's prayer was very clearly connected with more than what we would call simply the do's and or the do not's of God's will.
But rather, David was primarily concerned with it's relationship to the glory of God. It was for God's Glory. That God would be honored. This is what Jesus meant when He was teaching on prayer. "Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be Your name"
May it be so in our lives also, that God and His glory are target one for all of us, for all time.
5. God has "unfailing love" for us.
Psalm 143:12 In your unfailing love, cut off all my enemies and destroy all my foes, for I am your servant.
We often talk about the "unconditional" love of God, but here David speaks of the "unfailing love" of God. So, His love is both unconditional towards us, and it's also unfailing. God is faithful. His love does not fail. And, David relates God's unfailing love to the way that God would act and intervene towards David's enemies. That they would be cut off, and destroyed. Because David, was God's servant. We must remember that David as God's servant was also the king of a nation, and a nation that was constantly being threatened by the enemies of God.
We can pray in a somewhat different manner. We can pray for God's grace towards our enemies. And, we do seek to pray that way. That God would deliver them from their sad state of mind and heart, and come to real genuine faith in Jesus Christ.
Some questions:
1. Are you interested in being taught to "do the will of God?"
2. Are you confident that God wants to teach you, and that He can teach you?"
3. Can you think of anything more important than to be taught along this line?
4. The phrase "the will of God" means, that which is pleasing to God.
5. So, in praying to be taught to do the will of God, it's actually a prayer, that means, teach me to do what is pleasing to You.
A prayer:
Father, it's such a blessing to get up day by day, and know that You are right here with us. And, that we can get freshly connected with You by simply reaching out in faith to You. We are interested in You, but our interest pales in comparison to Your interest in us. We are indeed the apple of Your eye. You have "unfailing love" Thank You for that . Your love never fails.
How we need to know that, and rest in that. In Jesus name. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Psalm 143:10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing.
Psalm 143:11 For the glory of your name, O LORD, save me. In your righteousness, bring me out of this distress.
Psalm 143:12 In your unfailing love, cut off all my enemies and destroy all my foes, for I am your servant.
The above Scriptures are from the NLT Version.
A few explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
This is another wonderful Psalm, most likely written by King David. In it, he is asking God to teach him to do the will of God.
Let's look at what he has to say to God about this.
1. We can be taught the will of God.
Psalm 143:10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing.
Here we see David asking the Lord to teach him to do the will of God. This is somewhat different than asking to know the will of God, rather, David is asking to be taught "to do the will of God" It's similar to asking God "to teach us to pray" Or teach us to do it Lord, teach us to be people who pray. But, here, it's teach me "to do your will" And, the basis of David's confidence, is that God is his God.
God can teach us to do His will. How encouraging.
2. God Himself is the one who teaches us about His will, and to do His will.
Psalm 143:10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing.
I'm certain this is a very important subject to God, and something He is extremely interested in, that any one of His children, would ask Him, "teach me to do Your will" It must delight His heart to no end, don't you think. Just as David knew that God was His God, so, you as a born again Christian can have that same confidence, God is your God also. You have a relationship with Him, You are His child. And, He is more than eager to teach You to do His will.
3. The Holy Spirit is the one who leads us forward in the will of God.
Psalm 143:10 Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing.
Here, we are given a little insight into how God actually does teach us to do His will. It's through the work and the person of the Holy Spirit. He is our resident teacher, living right inside of us. And, the Holy Spirit is indeed gracious, and He will lead us forward in knowing God's will and in teaching us to do God's will. Please notice the last part of the verse. "on a firm footing"
That firm footing is none other than the rock of our salvation, Jesus Christ.
4. God's glory is really the most important thing when it comes to anything, including the "will of God"
Psalm 143:11 For the glory of your name, O LORD, save me. In your righteousness, bring me out of this distress.
David's prayer was very clearly connected with more than what we would call simply the do's and or the do not's of God's will.
But rather, David was primarily concerned with it's relationship to the glory of God. It was for God's Glory. That God would be honored. This is what Jesus meant when He was teaching on prayer. "Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be Your name"
May it be so in our lives also, that God and His glory are target one for all of us, for all time.
5. God has "unfailing love" for us.
Psalm 143:12 In your unfailing love, cut off all my enemies and destroy all my foes, for I am your servant.
We often talk about the "unconditional" love of God, but here David speaks of the "unfailing love" of God. So, His love is both unconditional towards us, and it's also unfailing. God is faithful. His love does not fail. And, David relates God's unfailing love to the way that God would act and intervene towards David's enemies. That they would be cut off, and destroyed. Because David, was God's servant. We must remember that David as God's servant was also the king of a nation, and a nation that was constantly being threatened by the enemies of God.
We can pray in a somewhat different manner. We can pray for God's grace towards our enemies. And, we do seek to pray that way. That God would deliver them from their sad state of mind and heart, and come to real genuine faith in Jesus Christ.
Some questions:
1. Are you interested in being taught to "do the will of God?"
2. Are you confident that God wants to teach you, and that He can teach you?"
3. Can you think of anything more important than to be taught along this line?
4. The phrase "the will of God" means, that which is pleasing to God.
5. So, in praying to be taught to do the will of God, it's actually a prayer, that means, teach me to do what is pleasing to You.
A prayer:
Father, it's such a blessing to get up day by day, and know that You are right here with us. And, that we can get freshly connected with You by simply reaching out in faith to You. We are interested in You, but our interest pales in comparison to Your interest in us. We are indeed the apple of Your eye. You have "unfailing love" Thank You for that . Your love never fails.
How we need to know that, and rest in that. In Jesus name. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARE OVERWHELMED"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU ARE OVERWHELMED"
Psalm 142:1 A Prayer when he was in the cave.>> I cry out to the LORD with my voice; With my voice to the LORD I make my supplication.
Psalm 142:2 I pour out my complaint before Him; I declare before Him my trouble.
Psalm 142:3 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, Then You knew my path. In the way in which I walk They have secretly set a snare for me.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
These verses are taken from a Psalm written by David, when he was in grave danger, and was hiding in a cave from his enemies. There is much to learn when we feel we are in similar circumstances.
1. You can pray when you are in trouble.
Psalm 142:1 A Prayer when he was in the cave.>> I cry out to the LORD with my voice; With my voice to the LORD I make my supplication.
A cave seems like a strange place to pray. Except, it was not for David. He was hiding, and therefore he had no other choice. In fact, we can pray in caves, out in the open, behind closed doors, in church, in our cars, in the shower, in bed, etc, etc. But, in this case it was an extreme situation. David not only prayed, but he "cried out to the Lord with his voice. He didn't just think, but he spoke, and He made known His supplication to the Lord.
And, that's exactly what we can do also. Just talk to the Lord and tell Him all that is on your mind.
2. You can pour out your complaint to the Lord, and let Him know of all your troubles.
Psalm 142:2 I pour out my complaint before Him; I declare before Him my trouble.
This is an interesting picture, "pour out my complaint" We think of a pitcher that we take and tilt and in doing so, we are emptying the contents right out of the pitcher. David was emptying His hearts trouble to God. His complaints were not just going out into the air, or on the ground, but, they were going before God, or into the ears and heart of His God.
Another thing David says, is that He "declared before Him my troubles" This means, that David was very being specific about what was going on in His life. He was telling God in great detail all of his troubles, enumerating them one by one. And, God was listening.
3. When you are overwhelmed, remember, God knows, and God will help you.
Psalm 142:3 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, Then You knew my path. In the way in which I walk They have secretly set a snare for me.
Here's how it reads in the NLT For I am overwhelmed, and you alone know the way I should turn. Wherever I go, my enemies have set traps for me.
David was truly overwhelmed. He could not take it anymore. But, he knew that God knew all about it, and he knew that God would show him what to do. David needed God's direction, because his enemies were all around him. they are setting traps for David. But, God was calling upon God.
Some questions:
1. Are you by any chance in a similar situation today, as David was in this Psalm?
2. David sets a good example for you to follow.
3. Is there anything you need to cry out to God about today?
4. Can you remember a time when You did cry out, and God helped you?
A prayer:
Father, thank You for these beautiful Psalms. They always have something to say to our hearts and lives.
We love You so much Lord.
Help us to follow this great example of David. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Psalm 142:1 A Prayer when he was in the cave.>> I cry out to the LORD with my voice; With my voice to the LORD I make my supplication.
Psalm 142:2 I pour out my complaint before Him; I declare before Him my trouble.
Psalm 142:3 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, Then You knew my path. In the way in which I walk They have secretly set a snare for me.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
These verses are taken from a Psalm written by David, when he was in grave danger, and was hiding in a cave from his enemies. There is much to learn when we feel we are in similar circumstances.
1. You can pray when you are in trouble.
Psalm 142:1 A Prayer when he was in the cave.>> I cry out to the LORD with my voice; With my voice to the LORD I make my supplication.
A cave seems like a strange place to pray. Except, it was not for David. He was hiding, and therefore he had no other choice. In fact, we can pray in caves, out in the open, behind closed doors, in church, in our cars, in the shower, in bed, etc, etc. But, in this case it was an extreme situation. David not only prayed, but he "cried out to the Lord with his voice. He didn't just think, but he spoke, and He made known His supplication to the Lord.
And, that's exactly what we can do also. Just talk to the Lord and tell Him all that is on your mind.
2. You can pour out your complaint to the Lord, and let Him know of all your troubles.
Psalm 142:2 I pour out my complaint before Him; I declare before Him my trouble.
This is an interesting picture, "pour out my complaint" We think of a pitcher that we take and tilt and in doing so, we are emptying the contents right out of the pitcher. David was emptying His hearts trouble to God. His complaints were not just going out into the air, or on the ground, but, they were going before God, or into the ears and heart of His God.
Another thing David says, is that He "declared before Him my troubles" This means, that David was very being specific about what was going on in His life. He was telling God in great detail all of his troubles, enumerating them one by one. And, God was listening.
3. When you are overwhelmed, remember, God knows, and God will help you.
Psalm 142:3 When my spirit was overwhelmed within me, Then You knew my path. In the way in which I walk They have secretly set a snare for me.
Here's how it reads in the NLT For I am overwhelmed, and you alone know the way I should turn. Wherever I go, my enemies have set traps for me.
David was truly overwhelmed. He could not take it anymore. But, he knew that God knew all about it, and he knew that God would show him what to do. David needed God's direction, because his enemies were all around him. they are setting traps for David. But, God was calling upon God.
Some questions:
1. Are you by any chance in a similar situation today, as David was in this Psalm?
2. David sets a good example for you to follow.
3. Is there anything you need to cry out to God about today?
4. Can you remember a time when You did cry out, and God helped you?
A prayer:
Father, thank You for these beautiful Psalms. They always have something to say to our hearts and lives.
We love You so much Lord.
Help us to follow this great example of David. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Monday, June 23, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE REFUGE WE HAVE IN THE LORD"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE REFUGE WE HAVE IN THE LORD"
Psalm 141:8 But my eyes are upon You, O GOD the Lord; In You I take refuge; Do not leave my soul destitute.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
David like any other person, and any other servant of God had his share of troubles, fears, anxieties and concerns. Perhaps he had more than most, in light of his position as king. Regardless, he also had access to what every child of God has, and that is access to the Living God. And, in this one single verse David helps us greatly by expressing his faith in God.
1. We can put our eyes on the Lord.
141:8 But my eyes are upon You, O GOD the Lord; In You I take refuge; Do not leave my soul destitute.
We tend to think of the men of the Bible as "super saints" as it were. But, in fact, they were just people like we are. They faced life and it's problems just like we do. But, one thing for sure, we can do what David did. We can put our eyes on the Lord, or put our faith in God like David did. In fact, this is exactly what God calls us to do, and wants us to do.
Psalm 62:8 Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah
2. GOD is the Lord.
Psalm 141:8 But my eyes are upon You, O GOD the Lord; In You I take refuge; Do not leave my soul destitute.
The word Lord, is translated, Adonay, meaning master. It's one of God's names, and titles. Sometimes the Jews instead of saying Yahweh, another name for God, and out of reverence for God, ( not even wanting to verbalize His name, to show their respect ) would call Him Adonay, or Adoni. As mentioned it means Master. And, indeed He is the master. He is the Lord of Lords, and the King of Kings. There is no one like Him, there is no one above Him.
So, the God we call upon, is the greatest, the highest, the most powerful, and the all knowing, all present and unchangeable, just, loving, wise, gracious, merciful and kind being that there is. We can call upon the Lord like David did.
3. We can take refuge in Him.
Psalm 141:8 But my eyes are upon You, O GOD the Lord; In You I take refuge; Do not leave my soul destitute.
This gets us down to the practical blessings we have in calling upon God. He is something to us, and for us. And, there is something that we can find and benefit from as we call upon Him. We can take refuge in God. That is what David did. "In You I take refuge"
The word refuge, means, to flee for protection, to confide in, to have hope in, to put our trust in. Isn't that wonderful, that in our times of need, we have God to trust in. We do not have to trust in ourselves, but rather we can trust in Him. And, He is more willing than we know to be that refuge for us. His love for us is so much greater than we know. He loves it when His children look to Him for help. He is more than willing to be what we need when we need it.
4. We also can pray, and be assured that God will answer and help.
Psalm 141:8 But my eyes are upon You, O GOD the Lord; In You I take refuge; Do not leave my soul destitute.
Along with trusting in God as his refuge, David also had a very specific prayer request for God. "Do not leave my soul destitute" The NLT says, "Don't let them kill me" So, the situation was very desperate. And, David was turning to God and asking for help, and so can we. This is exactly what Paul teaches us to do in the NT
Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.
Proverbs 3:6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
Psalm 9:9 The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, A refuge in times of trouble.
Some questions:
1. Are you like David today, putting your eyes on the Lord?
2. Do you know that You also have faith from God, and You can put your faith in Him?
3. Are you mindful of His great love and acceptance of You in Christ today?
4. Can you remember the last crisis you were in, when you trusted God and he helped you?
5. Are you in need of His help today?
6. Will you look to Him in this hour, be confident, you will find His help.
A prayer:
Father, the Psalms are such an never ending source of help and comfort for us. Thank You for them. When we read them, so often, we think, "this is just what I needed to hear today" How You love us, and how You want to be our help in trouble. And, how available You are to us. Thank You Father for Your unchanging love and acceptance of us. In Jesus name, amen.
Psalm 141:8 But my eyes are upon You, O GOD the Lord; In You I take refuge; Do not leave my soul destitute.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
David like any other person, and any other servant of God had his share of troubles, fears, anxieties and concerns. Perhaps he had more than most, in light of his position as king. Regardless, he also had access to what every child of God has, and that is access to the Living God. And, in this one single verse David helps us greatly by expressing his faith in God.
1. We can put our eyes on the Lord.
141:8 But my eyes are upon You, O GOD the Lord; In You I take refuge; Do not leave my soul destitute.
We tend to think of the men of the Bible as "super saints" as it were. But, in fact, they were just people like we are. They faced life and it's problems just like we do. But, one thing for sure, we can do what David did. We can put our eyes on the Lord, or put our faith in God like David did. In fact, this is exactly what God calls us to do, and wants us to do.
Psalm 62:8 Trust in Him at all times, you people; Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us. Selah
2. GOD is the Lord.
Psalm 141:8 But my eyes are upon You, O GOD the Lord; In You I take refuge; Do not leave my soul destitute.
The word Lord, is translated, Adonay, meaning master. It's one of God's names, and titles. Sometimes the Jews instead of saying Yahweh, another name for God, and out of reverence for God, ( not even wanting to verbalize His name, to show their respect ) would call Him Adonay, or Adoni. As mentioned it means Master. And, indeed He is the master. He is the Lord of Lords, and the King of Kings. There is no one like Him, there is no one above Him.
So, the God we call upon, is the greatest, the highest, the most powerful, and the all knowing, all present and unchangeable, just, loving, wise, gracious, merciful and kind being that there is. We can call upon the Lord like David did.
3. We can take refuge in Him.
Psalm 141:8 But my eyes are upon You, O GOD the Lord; In You I take refuge; Do not leave my soul destitute.
This gets us down to the practical blessings we have in calling upon God. He is something to us, and for us. And, there is something that we can find and benefit from as we call upon Him. We can take refuge in God. That is what David did. "In You I take refuge"
The word refuge, means, to flee for protection, to confide in, to have hope in, to put our trust in. Isn't that wonderful, that in our times of need, we have God to trust in. We do not have to trust in ourselves, but rather we can trust in Him. And, He is more willing than we know to be that refuge for us. His love for us is so much greater than we know. He loves it when His children look to Him for help. He is more than willing to be what we need when we need it.
4. We also can pray, and be assured that God will answer and help.
Psalm 141:8 But my eyes are upon You, O GOD the Lord; In You I take refuge; Do not leave my soul destitute.
Along with trusting in God as his refuge, David also had a very specific prayer request for God. "Do not leave my soul destitute" The NLT says, "Don't let them kill me" So, the situation was very desperate. And, David was turning to God and asking for help, and so can we. This is exactly what Paul teaches us to do in the NT
Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.
Proverbs 3:6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.
Psalm 9:9 The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, A refuge in times of trouble.
Some questions:
1. Are you like David today, putting your eyes on the Lord?
2. Do you know that You also have faith from God, and You can put your faith in Him?
3. Are you mindful of His great love and acceptance of You in Christ today?
4. Can you remember the last crisis you were in, when you trusted God and he helped you?
5. Are you in need of His help today?
6. Will you look to Him in this hour, be confident, you will find His help.
A prayer:
Father, the Psalms are such an never ending source of help and comfort for us. Thank You for them. When we read them, so often, we think, "this is just what I needed to hear today" How You love us, and how You want to be our help in trouble. And, how available You are to us. Thank You Father for Your unchanging love and acceptance of us. In Jesus name, amen.
Saturday, June 21, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE SAFETY WE HAVE IN THE LORD"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE SAFETY WE HAVE IN THE LORD"
Psalm 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties;
Psalm 139:24 And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
This Psalm, penned by David, is one in which he expresses his praise to God, and brings his circumstances to God, asking God to help him. Right here at the end, in the last two verses, David prays something very wise, and we would benefit ourselves if this prayer and attitude of heart was a regular part of our own lives. David had learned that God knew him, and could help him. The same God who helped David, stands ready at this moment to help any who call upon Him, and, He is able to do more than we can imagine.
1. God can search your heart and know you heart.
Psalm 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties;
The word search, means to find out to examine, to investigate, to examine thoroughly. To ascertain, to seek out.
David understood, David knew the great power of God, and how God could help him, by looking into his life, and seeing what is there, and what needed not to be there etc. David had learned that he himself needed God's help to run his life, and that God was more than willing to do so, and thus he was asking God to search him, and to know his heart, his inner self.
Imagine for a moment if you will, that there is truly no one else that knows every last detail of your life and heart. He knows when you get up, and when you sit down, and He knows what you are thinking before you think it. He knows everything and wants to help you. David wanted God to examine him.
2. God can try you, and know your anxieties.
Psalm 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties;
Here, David makes it a little more specific. He was asking if God would try him, or test him, and know his anxieties. His worries.
He was inviting God to really examine his heart and to reveal to David what He found. David knew his heart was very capable of having things in it, that were not good for him, or for anyone else, and that they certainly would not bring honor and glory to God. And, He knew that God knew. And, he knew that God could help him in identifying these things, and help him rid himself of them.
3. God can see if there is any wicked way in you.
Psalm 139:24 And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
David continues with his being very specific in his requests. And, he asks God to look into his heart and see if there was any "wicked way" in him. Wickedness is anything that would offend God. David knew full well, that he was capable of offending God, and he did not want to do that. And, He knew that God could help him, by revealing any wickedness within.
4. God can lead you in the way everlasting.
Psalm 139:24 And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
Here's the last thing David asked for. Along with pointing out anything in David's life that may be offensive to God, he was asking if the Lord would lead him along the path of everlasting life. Or along the path that is prescribed by God for us. It's the right path, versus the wrong path. What a great prayer, and what a great confidence David had in our great God.
God knows the way, in fact, He is the way, and He as our shepherd, is all about leading us in the right way. Jesus said there were two roads in life, one was very broad that leads to destruction, and one that is very narrow that leads to life. It's the narrow one that David wanted to be led on.
Some questions:
1. Have you ever prayed before like David did here?
2. Do you know that there is nothing to fear by opening yourself up to God in this way, but only benefit can come of it?
3. Do you know like David how much God loves you, and thinks about you and wants to help you this very day?
4. Do you know like David that you do not have to go it alone through this life, but you can walk closely with God?
5. Will you give this prayer a chance today? Pray it and see what God says to you.
A prayer:
Father, who is great like You? Who knows all that You know? There is no one like You. Thank You for Your immeasurable interest and love for us. Who can help us like You? Who is ready to help like You? Lord, we need Your help. We cannot do this on our own. Invade our hearts with Yourself Lord. We welcome Your examination, correction, revelation, etc. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Psalm 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties;
Psalm 139:24 And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
This Psalm, penned by David, is one in which he expresses his praise to God, and brings his circumstances to God, asking God to help him. Right here at the end, in the last two verses, David prays something very wise, and we would benefit ourselves if this prayer and attitude of heart was a regular part of our own lives. David had learned that God knew him, and could help him. The same God who helped David, stands ready at this moment to help any who call upon Him, and, He is able to do more than we can imagine.
1. God can search your heart and know you heart.
Psalm 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties;
The word search, means to find out to examine, to investigate, to examine thoroughly. To ascertain, to seek out.
David understood, David knew the great power of God, and how God could help him, by looking into his life, and seeing what is there, and what needed not to be there etc. David had learned that he himself needed God's help to run his life, and that God was more than willing to do so, and thus he was asking God to search him, and to know his heart, his inner self.
Imagine for a moment if you will, that there is truly no one else that knows every last detail of your life and heart. He knows when you get up, and when you sit down, and He knows what you are thinking before you think it. He knows everything and wants to help you. David wanted God to examine him.
2. God can try you, and know your anxieties.
Psalm 139:23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties;
Here, David makes it a little more specific. He was asking if God would try him, or test him, and know his anxieties. His worries.
He was inviting God to really examine his heart and to reveal to David what He found. David knew his heart was very capable of having things in it, that were not good for him, or for anyone else, and that they certainly would not bring honor and glory to God. And, He knew that God knew. And, he knew that God could help him in identifying these things, and help him rid himself of them.
3. God can see if there is any wicked way in you.
Psalm 139:24 And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
David continues with his being very specific in his requests. And, he asks God to look into his heart and see if there was any "wicked way" in him. Wickedness is anything that would offend God. David knew full well, that he was capable of offending God, and he did not want to do that. And, He knew that God could help him, by revealing any wickedness within.
4. God can lead you in the way everlasting.
Psalm 139:24 And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
Here's the last thing David asked for. Along with pointing out anything in David's life that may be offensive to God, he was asking if the Lord would lead him along the path of everlasting life. Or along the path that is prescribed by God for us. It's the right path, versus the wrong path. What a great prayer, and what a great confidence David had in our great God.
God knows the way, in fact, He is the way, and He as our shepherd, is all about leading us in the right way. Jesus said there were two roads in life, one was very broad that leads to destruction, and one that is very narrow that leads to life. It's the narrow one that David wanted to be led on.
Some questions:
1. Have you ever prayed before like David did here?
2. Do you know that there is nothing to fear by opening yourself up to God in this way, but only benefit can come of it?
3. Do you know like David how much God loves you, and thinks about you and wants to help you this very day?
4. Do you know like David that you do not have to go it alone through this life, but you can walk closely with God?
5. Will you give this prayer a chance today? Pray it and see what God says to you.
A prayer:
Father, who is great like You? Who knows all that You know? There is no one like You. Thank You for Your immeasurable interest and love for us. Who can help us like You? Who is ready to help like You? Lord, we need Your help. We cannot do this on our own. Invade our hearts with Yourself Lord. We welcome Your examination, correction, revelation, etc. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Friday, June 20, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE FORGIVENESS OF SINS AND BEING JUSTIFIED BY GOD"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE FORGIVENESS OF SINS AND BEING JUSTIFIED BY GOD"
Acts 13:38 “Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins;
Acts 13:39 “and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
The above verses, were spoken by Paul in a Synagogue in Antioch He had been asked by the leaders there to share any words of exhortation (Encouragement). Of course Paul was not hesitant to accommodate their request. Thus Chapter 13:16-41 (from the daily reading today, June 20th in the One Year Bible) is a record of Paul's message that includes a review of the historical work and blessings of God among His people the Jews, leading up to the coming of the Messiah, and the heavenly blessing of forgiveness of sins, and the doctrine of being Justified. So, let's take a look at these two rich verses and enjoy learning what our Great God and Savior Jesus Christ has done for all who will believe. (Which I trust includes you also)
1. God wants His truth to be known by people.
Acts 13:38 “Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins;
God does indeed through teaching and preaching make His Word, His truth known to people. And, one of the main things at the heart of His truth is this. "that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins;" How beautiful and amazingly wonderful is that. Through Christ, and the work of Christ in dying on the cross for our sins, and our turning to Him, and believing in Him, we receive the forgiveness of sins.
Forgiving men of their sins is the primary reason that Jesus came to the earth, and it's the primary blessing that God wants to give to people. He wants their sins to be forgiven. This is the truth that the Devil does not want people to know. He wants them to be condemned, to not know about forgiveness, and to keep men bound and enslaved to lies, to corruption, to unbelief, to a sure and certain eternal destruction. He hates the Lord, and he hates the fact that God forgives sins.
I'm certain he also hates the fact that he and his band of evil spirits know they can never be forgiven. They are truly the ones that are enslaved, and headed for eternal judgment.
2. God especially explains His truth among those are His children.
Acts 13:38 “Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins;
This message was preached among "brethren" And, it's among God's people, the church, where the truths of God are the most widely proclaimed and enjoyed. It's called teaching the Word. This is why God has placed pastor-teachers in the church, to explain His truth to His people, to our brothers and sisters in Christ. What a blessing that God who takes us out of darkness, and then places us in Christ, then through preaching and teaching takes the time to unpack His Word to us, explaining the wonders of His grace, love and mercy to us.
With the above in mind, one can see how we ought to pray for our leaders, our teachers, and how we ought to take full advantage of all the opportunities to gather together for worship, and for hearing the precious Word of God, so that we might be fed, be instructed, be encouraged, be enriched, be restored, corrected, helped, and made to overflow with the knowledge of God in Jesus Christ.
3. God's Son Jesus Christ came into this world to provide us with the forgiveness of sins.
Acts 13:38 “Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins;
Again, we see the emphasis on "the forgiveness of sins" Man cannot forgive his own sins. Although we often hear, that "we need to forgive ourselves" I disagree. We need to let God forgive us. Since it's more true than we know, that we cannot forgive ourselves. Only God can forgive sins. Look at these wonderful verses below that speak to the issue of being forgiven of sins.
Acts 5:31 “Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins.
Acts 26:18 ‘to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.’
Ephesians 1:7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace
Colossians 1:14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.
4. God also, through faith in Jesus Christ, will and does justify everyone who believes.
Acts 13:39 “and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
Now, here is another of God's blessings. It's called "justification" And, please notice again what the verse says.
Acts 13:39 “and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
Not only are we forgiven of our sins by and through Jesus Christ, but also, for everyone who believes in Jesus, that person becomes justified from all things. What does this mean? One simple way to say it, is that we are not only freed from all guilt, ( that's forgiveness of sins ) but, we are "declared right with God" That's what Justification means. God declares the believing sinner to be right with him, because of their faith in Jesus Christ.
Justification really has two parts to it. God removes our sins from us, and then places on us, or imputes to us the very righteousness of Christ. He then declares that we are justified. No greater declaration could be made about a person. There is no one greater than God and there is no more important declaration He can make. And, how He yearns to make it to any and all who will believe. God is our justifier.
Romans 4:25 who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification.
Romans 5:16 And the gift is not like that which came through the one who sinned. For the judgment which came from one offense resulted in condemnation, but the free gift which came from many offenses resulted in justification.
Romans 5:18 Therefore, as through one man’s offense judgment came to all men, resulting in condemnation, even so through one Man’s righteous act the free gift came to all men, resulting in justification of life.
5. God's justification, is something that could not be found by or through the Law of Moses.
Acts 13:39 “and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
This wonderful declaration of our being declared right with and before God could never be made through the law of Moses. The law came through Moses but grace came through Jesus Christ. The law was important to show us our need for salvation, and that salvation, that forgiveness, that justification is ours, not by the law, but by grace, through faith in Jesus Christ.
So, God has done it all of us. We could not do it. God has done it for us. He has justified us. And, to be sure, please notice,
Acts 13:39 “and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
It's from all things. The Jewish law could never do this. But the Jewish God and Savior Jesus Christ could and has, and will do it for all who turn to Him.
Some questions:
1. Isn't it wonderful to know that God wants to make known the riches of His grace to you.?
2. You as a child of God are privileged to know these truths?
3. God has given you a bible, a church full of other members of God's Family, and He wants to build up the church through Christ.
4. Will you please pray for your church, it's pastor, and the other leaders, it's members, the working of the Holy Spirit, the teaching and the preaching of the Word of God, so that what God wants us to know and understand will take place?
5. If you had to define church attendance on your list of priorities where would it be?
6. Has God been speaking to you about your church attendance and involvement?
7. What steps might you need to take to come into line with heaven's priorities for your life and schedule, and use of your time?
8. Do you pray for Heaven's priorities to become Your priorities?
A prayer:
Father, how blessed the people were who heard Paul preach. And, how blessed we are that you have it on record for us in the Bible. And, how blessed we are that You are actively today, still speaking through pastor's, preachers, teachers, etc, to share with us Your indescribable gift in Jesus Christ. He is the gift of gifts. And, You are the giver of every good and perfect gift.
We pray that You would give us the gift of Spiritual wisdom and insight into the truth of Jesus Christ. We pray that You would flood our hearts with Spiritual insight. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Acts 13:38 “Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins;
Acts 13:39 “and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
The above verses, were spoken by Paul in a Synagogue in Antioch He had been asked by the leaders there to share any words of exhortation (Encouragement). Of course Paul was not hesitant to accommodate their request. Thus Chapter 13:16-41 (from the daily reading today, June 20th in the One Year Bible) is a record of Paul's message that includes a review of the historical work and blessings of God among His people the Jews, leading up to the coming of the Messiah, and the heavenly blessing of forgiveness of sins, and the doctrine of being Justified. So, let's take a look at these two rich verses and enjoy learning what our Great God and Savior Jesus Christ has done for all who will believe. (Which I trust includes you also)
1. God wants His truth to be known by people.
Acts 13:38 “Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins;
God does indeed through teaching and preaching make His Word, His truth known to people. And, one of the main things at the heart of His truth is this. "that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins;" How beautiful and amazingly wonderful is that. Through Christ, and the work of Christ in dying on the cross for our sins, and our turning to Him, and believing in Him, we receive the forgiveness of sins.
Forgiving men of their sins is the primary reason that Jesus came to the earth, and it's the primary blessing that God wants to give to people. He wants their sins to be forgiven. This is the truth that the Devil does not want people to know. He wants them to be condemned, to not know about forgiveness, and to keep men bound and enslaved to lies, to corruption, to unbelief, to a sure and certain eternal destruction. He hates the Lord, and he hates the fact that God forgives sins.
I'm certain he also hates the fact that he and his band of evil spirits know they can never be forgiven. They are truly the ones that are enslaved, and headed for eternal judgment.
2. God especially explains His truth among those are His children.
Acts 13:38 “Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins;
This message was preached among "brethren" And, it's among God's people, the church, where the truths of God are the most widely proclaimed and enjoyed. It's called teaching the Word. This is why God has placed pastor-teachers in the church, to explain His truth to His people, to our brothers and sisters in Christ. What a blessing that God who takes us out of darkness, and then places us in Christ, then through preaching and teaching takes the time to unpack His Word to us, explaining the wonders of His grace, love and mercy to us.
With the above in mind, one can see how we ought to pray for our leaders, our teachers, and how we ought to take full advantage of all the opportunities to gather together for worship, and for hearing the precious Word of God, so that we might be fed, be instructed, be encouraged, be enriched, be restored, corrected, helped, and made to overflow with the knowledge of God in Jesus Christ.
3. God's Son Jesus Christ came into this world to provide us with the forgiveness of sins.
Acts 13:38 “Therefore let it be known to you, brethren, that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins;
Again, we see the emphasis on "the forgiveness of sins" Man cannot forgive his own sins. Although we often hear, that "we need to forgive ourselves" I disagree. We need to let God forgive us. Since it's more true than we know, that we cannot forgive ourselves. Only God can forgive sins. Look at these wonderful verses below that speak to the issue of being forgiven of sins.
Acts 5:31 “Him God has exalted to His right hand to be Prince and Savior, to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins.
Acts 26:18 ‘to open their eyes, in order to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who are sanctified by faith in Me.’
Ephesians 1:7 In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace
Colossians 1:14 in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.
4. God also, through faith in Jesus Christ, will and does justify everyone who believes.
Acts 13:39 “and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
Now, here is another of God's blessings. It's called "justification" And, please notice again what the verse says.
Acts 13:39 “and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
Not only are we forgiven of our sins by and through Jesus Christ, but also, for everyone who believes in Jesus, that person becomes justified from all things. What does this mean? One simple way to say it, is that we are not only freed from all guilt, ( that's forgiveness of sins ) but, we are "declared right with God" That's what Justification means. God declares the believing sinner to be right with him, because of their faith in Jesus Christ.
Justification really has two parts to it. God removes our sins from us, and then places on us, or imputes to us the very righteousness of Christ. He then declares that we are justified. No greater declaration could be made about a person. There is no one greater than God and there is no more important declaration He can make. And, how He yearns to make it to any and all who will believe. God is our justifier.
Romans 4:25 who was delivered up because of our offenses, and was raised because of our justification.
Romans 5:16 And the gift is not like that which came through the one who sinned. For the judgment which came from one offense resulted in condemnation, but the free gift which came from many offenses resulted in justification.
Romans 5:18 Therefore, as through one man’s offense judgment came to all men, resulting in condemnation, even so through one Man’s righteous act the free gift came to all men, resulting in justification of life.
5. God's justification, is something that could not be found by or through the Law of Moses.
Acts 13:39 “and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
This wonderful declaration of our being declared right with and before God could never be made through the law of Moses. The law came through Moses but grace came through Jesus Christ. The law was important to show us our need for salvation, and that salvation, that forgiveness, that justification is ours, not by the law, but by grace, through faith in Jesus Christ.
So, God has done it all of us. We could not do it. God has done it for us. He has justified us. And, to be sure, please notice,
Acts 13:39 “and by Him everyone who believes is justified from all things from which you could not be justified by the law of Moses.
It's from all things. The Jewish law could never do this. But the Jewish God and Savior Jesus Christ could and has, and will do it for all who turn to Him.
Some questions:
1. Isn't it wonderful to know that God wants to make known the riches of His grace to you.?
2. You as a child of God are privileged to know these truths?
3. God has given you a bible, a church full of other members of God's Family, and He wants to build up the church through Christ.
4. Will you please pray for your church, it's pastor, and the other leaders, it's members, the working of the Holy Spirit, the teaching and the preaching of the Word of God, so that what God wants us to know and understand will take place?
5. If you had to define church attendance on your list of priorities where would it be?
6. Has God been speaking to you about your church attendance and involvement?
7. What steps might you need to take to come into line with heaven's priorities for your life and schedule, and use of your time?
8. Do you pray for Heaven's priorities to become Your priorities?
A prayer:
Father, how blessed the people were who heard Paul preach. And, how blessed we are that you have it on record for us in the Bible. And, how blessed we are that You are actively today, still speaking through pastor's, preachers, teachers, etc, to share with us Your indescribable gift in Jesus Christ. He is the gift of gifts. And, You are the giver of every good and perfect gift.
We pray that You would give us the gift of Spiritual wisdom and insight into the truth of Jesus Christ. We pray that You would flood our hearts with Spiritual insight. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Thursday, June 19, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE CALLING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT THE CALLING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT"
Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
Acts 13:3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.
Acts 13:4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus.Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
The background here, is that many leaders were gathered together in the city of Antiock, and they were ministering to the Lord, that is, they were worshipping the Lord, seeking Him, walking with Him, meeting for prayer and fellowship. And during that period of time, (in a way that is not told us) the Holy Spirit spoke to them, and called out Saul, or Paul, and Barnabas for a particular work.
The verses above give us a great amount of detail of how the Holy Spirit works, why He works, and what we can do to cooperate with His work and His calling in these last days.
1. Being focused on, and walking with the Lord puts us in a place where God can speak to us.
Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
The Bible says that when we draw near to God, He will draw near to us. (James 4) And, that is what happened here. These men were drawing near to God, and He indeed drew near to them, and spoke to them, and told them what He wanted them to do.
The same thing happens today. God has a plan for each of our lives, and if we will but seek Him, and be in a place where we can hear Him, we will hear Him. What a blessing that is. God is so interested in carrying on His work. He is looking for people who are looking for Him. And, once He finds them, He speaks to them.
2. Fasting, is not something we are very use to doing. However, it is a Biblical practice, and is very helpful in finding the will of God.
Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
A part of their ministry to the Lord at this time was fasting. Which means to abstain. We are not told just exactly what they were abstaining from, but, they were fasting. Fasting is helpful in this regard, that it can sharpen out attention to the Lord, and it's a sacrifice that seems to yield great results in the sense that it puts us more in tune with the Lord. We become more focused on Him, and He honors that. He sure did honor it in this case
3. The Holy Spirit spoke to these focused worshippers, and told them what He had in mind.
Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
You will notice what God said to these men. It was a call to separate to Him, these two men, for a work that He was calling them to. God has a work to do, and He does His work through people. He calls those people to the work. The calling is His decision, not ours. Ours is to respond to His calling, and to enter into the work that He has for us. God has a work for you to do also, and one for me to do. I pray that we are in a place where we can hear Him, and that we will respond to Him promptly and without delay. We are to redeem the time, because the days are evil.
4. The men who were spoken to, took the time to wait, pray, fast, and attempt to be sure they had heard the Lord.
Acts 13:3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.
While it's clear the Lord spoke to them, it's also clear that the men wanted to be sure. They did not just rush off, but they waited, they fasted, they prayed, and once they were convinced it was the Lord, they moved forward.
They heard God, they waited and prayed to make sure they heard God, and then they followed what God had told them to do. What a great pattern to follow.
5. Once these men had the confirmation from God, they put God's plan into action.
Acts 13:3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.
God not only speaks to us, but He will confirm to us that He has spoken to us. He will especially do this for people who are asking Him for confirmation. Just as He did in this incident.
It's so easy to just rush off without waiting for God to confirm something to us. A little waiting, a little praying, a little fasting will pay big dividends of confirmation and certainty.
6. God the Holy Spirit selects people for service, and then He sends them out into that service.
Acts 13:4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus.Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.
Just like the Father sent the Son, and He came to the earth, God is still today, calling, selecting, sending etc. There is a great work of God to be done in the days we are living in, and God is looking for men and women He can use. He will use any person who is available and willing. It's not talent He is looking for, but rather availability.
Questions:
1. Isn't this an encouraging story?
2. Have you had the experience of God speaking to you and calling You to ministry of some type?
3. Do you know that there is no greater blessing in all of life than to be in the middle of God's will?
4. Do you have the desire to be used by God? Have You told Him of your desire?
5. If God is speaking to you, please seek confirmation, He will give it to you, and than move ahead.
A prayer:
Father, thank You for sending Jesus to save us from our sins. And, now You are sending people all the time to tell others about Jesus. Thank You for the people or person who shared Christ with us.
They heard You, and they obeyed You, and we have benefitted from Your calling, and their obedience. Thank You Lord. In Jesus name. Amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
Acts 13:3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.
Acts 13:4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus.Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
The background here, is that many leaders were gathered together in the city of Antiock, and they were ministering to the Lord, that is, they were worshipping the Lord, seeking Him, walking with Him, meeting for prayer and fellowship. And during that period of time, (in a way that is not told us) the Holy Spirit spoke to them, and called out Saul, or Paul, and Barnabas for a particular work.
The verses above give us a great amount of detail of how the Holy Spirit works, why He works, and what we can do to cooperate with His work and His calling in these last days.
1. Being focused on, and walking with the Lord puts us in a place where God can speak to us.
Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
The Bible says that when we draw near to God, He will draw near to us. (James 4) And, that is what happened here. These men were drawing near to God, and He indeed drew near to them, and spoke to them, and told them what He wanted them to do.
The same thing happens today. God has a plan for each of our lives, and if we will but seek Him, and be in a place where we can hear Him, we will hear Him. What a blessing that is. God is so interested in carrying on His work. He is looking for people who are looking for Him. And, once He finds them, He speaks to them.
2. Fasting, is not something we are very use to doing. However, it is a Biblical practice, and is very helpful in finding the will of God.
Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
A part of their ministry to the Lord at this time was fasting. Which means to abstain. We are not told just exactly what they were abstaining from, but, they were fasting. Fasting is helpful in this regard, that it can sharpen out attention to the Lord, and it's a sacrifice that seems to yield great results in the sense that it puts us more in tune with the Lord. We become more focused on Him, and He honors that. He sure did honor it in this case
3. The Holy Spirit spoke to these focused worshippers, and told them what He had in mind.
Acts 13:2 As they ministered to the Lord and fasted, the Holy Spirit said, “Now separate to Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.”
You will notice what God said to these men. It was a call to separate to Him, these two men, for a work that He was calling them to. God has a work to do, and He does His work through people. He calls those people to the work. The calling is His decision, not ours. Ours is to respond to His calling, and to enter into the work that He has for us. God has a work for you to do also, and one for me to do. I pray that we are in a place where we can hear Him, and that we will respond to Him promptly and without delay. We are to redeem the time, because the days are evil.
4. The men who were spoken to, took the time to wait, pray, fast, and attempt to be sure they had heard the Lord.
Acts 13:3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.
While it's clear the Lord spoke to them, it's also clear that the men wanted to be sure. They did not just rush off, but they waited, they fasted, they prayed, and once they were convinced it was the Lord, they moved forward.
They heard God, they waited and prayed to make sure they heard God, and then they followed what God had told them to do. What a great pattern to follow.
5. Once these men had the confirmation from God, they put God's plan into action.
Acts 13:3 Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.
God not only speaks to us, but He will confirm to us that He has spoken to us. He will especially do this for people who are asking Him for confirmation. Just as He did in this incident.
It's so easy to just rush off without waiting for God to confirm something to us. A little waiting, a little praying, a little fasting will pay big dividends of confirmation and certainty.
6. God the Holy Spirit selects people for service, and then He sends them out into that service.
Acts 13:4 So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went down to Seleucia, and from there they sailed to Cyprus.Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, they sent them away.
Just like the Father sent the Son, and He came to the earth, God is still today, calling, selecting, sending etc. There is a great work of God to be done in the days we are living in, and God is looking for men and women He can use. He will use any person who is available and willing. It's not talent He is looking for, but rather availability.
Questions:
1. Isn't this an encouraging story?
2. Have you had the experience of God speaking to you and calling You to ministry of some type?
3. Do you know that there is no greater blessing in all of life than to be in the middle of God's will?
4. Do you have the desire to be used by God? Have You told Him of your desire?
5. If God is speaking to you, please seek confirmation, He will give it to you, and than move ahead.
A prayer:
Father, thank You for sending Jesus to save us from our sins. And, now You are sending people all the time to tell others about Jesus. Thank You for the people or person who shared Christ with us.
They heard You, and they obeyed You, and we have benefitted from Your calling, and their obedience. Thank You Lord. In Jesus name. Amen
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
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