"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE TO HELP A PERSON KNOW IF THEY REALLY ARE A CHRISTIAN"
John 8:31 Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.
John 8:42 Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God; nor have I come of Myself, but He sent Me.
John 8:47 “He who is of God hears God’s words; therefore you do not hear, because you are not of God.”
John 8:51 “Most assuredly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word he shall never see death.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
In this 8th chapter of John, there was a fierce back and forth between those who were against Jesus. Jesus was explaining who He was, and how to know if someone is truly a follower, a believer, a true Christian of not. There are many other ways of identifying the birthmarks of a Christian, so, here are just a few. This is also a chapter, the 8th of John, that is filled with many other important truths, i.e about Satan.
1. Those who know the Lord abide in His Words. keep obeying His teachings.
John 8:31 Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.
Here Jesus is explaining that those who are truly His disciples, ( those who are learning about Him ) abide, or remain in, and or keep on obeying His teachings. It's not our abiding in His Word, or our obedience to His teachings that make us a christian, no, we are made christians by repenting, and believing in Jesus Christ. But, if a person truly has come to faith, then this is one of the characteristics that will be clearly seen in their lives.
This is one of those birthmarks found in the person who has truly come to faith and is following the Lord as a disciple. They abide in His Word, and they obey what He teaches.
In fact, one time Jesus asked this very penetrating and revealing question to those around Him.
Lu 6:46 “But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do the things which I say?
Think about that question. Put yourselves in the shoes of those Jesus was talking to. What would be the right way to answer that question.
2. Those who know the Lord love Him.
John 8:42 Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love Me, for I proceeded forth and came from God; nor have I come of Myself, but He sent Me.
Here again, Jesus is describing the person who has God as their father. ( which by the way His detractors did not ) Simply put, if a person has truly come to faith, and God is not only their creator, but has now become their father, they will love Jesus. That's it, they will love Him. To love Jesus means, to have a have a true affection for Him. To dote upon Him. To welcome Him, to be fond of Him, to be well pleased and contented with Him.
3. Those who know the Lord hear God's Word, and those who don't do not hear His Word.
John 8:47 “He who is of God hears God’s words; therefore you do not hear, because you are not of God.”
Here's how it reads in the NLT. John 8:47 Anyone whose Father is God listens gladly to the words of God. Since you don’t, it proves you aren’t God’s children.”
To listen to, to hear means, to hearken, to give audience to, to attend to, consider what is or has been said. to comprehend, to understand.
Notice, that Jesus said to those who did not know Him, that they did not hear because they were not of God, i.e they did not truly know God. They thought they did, but here they were arguing with God himself, that is Jesus, and were attempting to trap God Himself, and ultimately, demanded that Jesus be put to death. They actually hated God.
4. Those who know the Lord, obey His teachings and will never die.
John 8:51 “Most assuredly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word he shall never see death.
Jesus is actually repeating one thing He has said, but then adds another truth about those who know Him.
The person who knows the Lord will keep His Word, or abide in His Word, or obey His Word.
John 14:15 “If you love Me, keep My commandments. Again, here are three important things to consider about this matter of obeying Jesus.
(1) Obedience to Christ, is not what saves you, but, it is one of the marks of a person who is saved.
(2) Obedience to Christ is not perfect obedience, but, it is what generally characterizes a saved persons life.
(3) Obedience to Christ, Keeping His Word, means, You will never die, or experience the 2nd death, that is being separated from Him forever, in the lake of fire. It means you have eternal life now, and will leave this world and go right into heaven itself and be with Your Savior forever and ever.
Some questions:
1. Do you ever wonder if you truly are saved?
2. Have you in the past had more of an assurance about being saved than you do now, or are you very assured that You know the Lord.?
3. Have these 4 Scriptures helped you in giving you assurance of your salvation?
4. Do you know anyone who is struggling with assurance of salvation? And, would you be able to reach out to them and help them by sharing these wonderful and simple verses with them. ?
5. How would You describe the way in which these verses have helped you today?
6. Do you personally have any doubts about your salvation?. If so, please read through the verses again, and talk to the Lord about them, and about your doubts, and ask Him to clarify where you really are with Him.
A prayer:
Father, Your Word is our daily bread. And, no matter where we open it up day by day, it speaks to us and we learn of You. Thank You for the verses today, and how they are so comforting, and encouraging. Lord You want people to be saved, and You don't want anyone to go around thinking they are saved if they are not. You want them to know the truth, and these verses sure help lay the truth out. Please help us personally if we have any doubts, or are confused, or deceived about where we stand with You, and help us to help others who may have the same or similar struggles. In Jesus name we pray, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Friday, May 16, 2014
Thursday, May 15, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE WHEN FACING GIANTS IN YOUR LIFE"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE WHEN FACING GIANTS IN YOUR LIFE"
1st Samuel 17:44 And the Philistine said to David, “Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field!”
1st Samuel 17:44 Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
In that day, it was common for armies to pick one man from each other's armies, and let them fight it out.
The one who prevailed, meant their army prevailed. This was done so as to avoid unneeded bloodshed and the like.
In this situation, the Philistines had made the request for Israel to sent their representative, but the entire nation, including the king were afraid to send a man.
But, along came David, but a lad, who took the Philistine giants threatening request and stepped forward to fight and prevailed. It's believed that Goliath may have been 9 ft tall, and as mentioned, David was just a very young man.
But, he wound up defeating this giant. And, there are reasons for his victory, and we will look at them in this devotional. They are principles that can be part of your life, and can and will lead you to prevail against your Goliaths, our enemies. Let's look at them. Some of these principles are in the previous chapters. I'll reference them for your own study.
1. David had been chosen by God, and so have you, if you have believed in Jesus Christ.
1st Samuel 16:11
David was the youngest son of Jesse. His family did not even think much of him, but Samuel asked for him, and he was brought to Samuel. No one may have thought you were anything either. But God did. God loves you, and He sent Jesus to die for your sins, He convicted you of sin, gave you faith and the gift of repentance, and you believed, and guess what, you are now one of God's chosen people.
2. David had been anointed with the Holy Spirit, and you can be as well. ( be empowered by the Holy Spirit)
This is also in 1st Samuel 16:13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward.
This incident was the start of David later becoming the king of Israel. But, what's important here, is that this young boy chosen by God was also anointed with oil. This is a symbol of God's Holy Spirit coming into your life at salvation, giving you new life, and as you yield to the Spirit day by day, and let Him fill you, you also will then have access to God's diving power and guidance in your life. So, David was chosen by God, and then given God's power if you will.
3. David was not discouraged by the discouragement of others. His family, the soldiers, and even Goliath. None of them thought David was able to fight this battle, but David. You and I also may face Goliaths, or Giants in our lives, and discouraged people are all around us. No one believes that you can do what you believe God wants you to do. In fact, you may even be discouraged. But, David was not. He had courage and faith in God. That's one of the reasons he was able to prevail. See 1st Sam 16:28-30
4. David took courage and went right after the giant. ( and so can you )
1st Samuel 17:32 Then David said to Saul, “Let no man’s heart fail because of him; your servant will go and fight with this Philistine.
” Notice what David said here. " Let no man's heart fail because of him" Or as the NLT reads. "Don’t worry about a thing,” David told Saul. “I’ll go fight this Philistine!”
David was not overcome by worry, and he simply decided he would go and fight the giant. You can be the same way. God has told us plainly in His Word not to worry, and He has told us also to simply have faith in Him. Not worrying, and having faith add up to, or equal, or produce courage. That's what David had, and so can you.
Ps 31:24 So be strong and take courage, all you who put your hope in the LORD!
5. David came to the battle in the name of the LORD of hosts. ( Or in the power of God, not his own power )
1st Samuel 17:44 Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
This verse really sums it up. The Giant came in his own strength, full of pride and arrogance. David came in humility, not trusting in himself but in God and His strength and power.
This is truly the way that God has called us to fight giants. Trust the Lord. He is able. Don't depend on yourself.
Put your faith in God.
Some questions:
1. Are you facing a giant or giants ( problems, trials, challenges ) in your life right now?
2. Can you see how David acted, will you choose to do what he did and trust the Lord?
3. Are there people who seek to discourage you, or have no faith in you?
4. Will you look away from discouragement, and look to the Lord as David did?
5. Do you believe God can help you?
6. Will you ask Him to right now, and will you come under His leadership and ask for His power today?
A prayer:
Father, the greatest giant in the world was sin and the devil. Both have been defeated by Jesus at the cross. Jesus is our Lord, and He is our deliverer. You do not call us to fight battles in our own strength, but in Yours.
Lord today, would You renew our courage, and our faith, and empower us to be like David, and face the day and the giants in Your name. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
1st Samuel 17:44 And the Philistine said to David, “Come to me, and I will give your flesh to the birds of the air and the beasts of the field!”
1st Samuel 17:44 Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
In that day, it was common for armies to pick one man from each other's armies, and let them fight it out.
The one who prevailed, meant their army prevailed. This was done so as to avoid unneeded bloodshed and the like.
In this situation, the Philistines had made the request for Israel to sent their representative, but the entire nation, including the king were afraid to send a man.
But, along came David, but a lad, who took the Philistine giants threatening request and stepped forward to fight and prevailed. It's believed that Goliath may have been 9 ft tall, and as mentioned, David was just a very young man.
But, he wound up defeating this giant. And, there are reasons for his victory, and we will look at them in this devotional. They are principles that can be part of your life, and can and will lead you to prevail against your Goliaths, our enemies. Let's look at them. Some of these principles are in the previous chapters. I'll reference them for your own study.
1. David had been chosen by God, and so have you, if you have believed in Jesus Christ.
1st Samuel 16:11
David was the youngest son of Jesse. His family did not even think much of him, but Samuel asked for him, and he was brought to Samuel. No one may have thought you were anything either. But God did. God loves you, and He sent Jesus to die for your sins, He convicted you of sin, gave you faith and the gift of repentance, and you believed, and guess what, you are now one of God's chosen people.
2. David had been anointed with the Holy Spirit, and you can be as well. ( be empowered by the Holy Spirit)
This is also in 1st Samuel 16:13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward.
This incident was the start of David later becoming the king of Israel. But, what's important here, is that this young boy chosen by God was also anointed with oil. This is a symbol of God's Holy Spirit coming into your life at salvation, giving you new life, and as you yield to the Spirit day by day, and let Him fill you, you also will then have access to God's diving power and guidance in your life. So, David was chosen by God, and then given God's power if you will.
3. David was not discouraged by the discouragement of others. His family, the soldiers, and even Goliath. None of them thought David was able to fight this battle, but David. You and I also may face Goliaths, or Giants in our lives, and discouraged people are all around us. No one believes that you can do what you believe God wants you to do. In fact, you may even be discouraged. But, David was not. He had courage and faith in God. That's one of the reasons he was able to prevail. See 1st Sam 16:28-30
4. David took courage and went right after the giant. ( and so can you )
1st Samuel 17:32 Then David said to Saul, “Let no man’s heart fail because of him; your servant will go and fight with this Philistine.
” Notice what David said here. " Let no man's heart fail because of him" Or as the NLT reads. "Don’t worry about a thing,” David told Saul. “I’ll go fight this Philistine!”
David was not overcome by worry, and he simply decided he would go and fight the giant. You can be the same way. God has told us plainly in His Word not to worry, and He has told us also to simply have faith in Him. Not worrying, and having faith add up to, or equal, or produce courage. That's what David had, and so can you.
Ps 31:24 So be strong and take courage, all you who put your hope in the LORD!
5. David came to the battle in the name of the LORD of hosts. ( Or in the power of God, not his own power )
1st Samuel 17:44 Then David said to the Philistine, “You come to me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. But I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
This verse really sums it up. The Giant came in his own strength, full of pride and arrogance. David came in humility, not trusting in himself but in God and His strength and power.
This is truly the way that God has called us to fight giants. Trust the Lord. He is able. Don't depend on yourself.
Put your faith in God.
Some questions:
1. Are you facing a giant or giants ( problems, trials, challenges ) in your life right now?
2. Can you see how David acted, will you choose to do what he did and trust the Lord?
3. Are there people who seek to discourage you, or have no faith in you?
4. Will you look away from discouragement, and look to the Lord as David did?
5. Do you believe God can help you?
6. Will you ask Him to right now, and will you come under His leadership and ask for His power today?
A prayer:
Father, the greatest giant in the world was sin and the devil. Both have been defeated by Jesus at the cross. Jesus is our Lord, and He is our deliverer. You do not call us to fight battles in our own strength, but in Yours.
Lord today, would You renew our courage, and our faith, and empower us to be like David, and face the day and the giants in Your name. Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Wednesday, May 14, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE WHEN YOU ARE IN TROUBLE"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE WHEN YOU ARE IN TROUBLE"
Psalm 108:12 Give us help from trouble, For the help of man is useless.
Psalm 108:13 Through God we will do valiantly, For it is He who shall tread down our enemies.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
This 108th Psalm was written by King David. It is a Psalm where he praises God, and expresses his faith and confidence in God, and in God's ability and strength. He is also looking to God for help in the midst of trouble.
1. God will give you help when you are in trouble.
Psalm 108:12a Give us help from trouble,
David was specifically asking God to give him help from the trouble he was experiencing. We are not told what the trouble was, but David needed help, and he was looking to God for help in that trouble and with that trouble.
The word trouble here, means, enemy, adversary, distress, affliction, foes, narrow, strait. It was used to speak of being in a narrow and tight spot, to be in hard times. To be experiencing oppression.
2. The help of man is really useless.
Psalm 108:12b For the help of man is useless.
David was not discounting the love and support of his friends and of his armies. But, rather, he was comparing what God can do with what man can do. And, there is no comparison. God can do what man cannot do.
And, God does not call us to put our hope and trust in either ourselves, or in others, but rather in God Himself.
And, that's what David was seeking to do.
3. With God's help we can do mighty things.
Psalm 108:13a Through God we will do valiantly,
Here David expresses what man can do with God as his helper. This is what David was counting on, and it's what we can count on as well. That through God we can do valiantly. Or as the NLT reads, "With God’s help we will do mighty things," How true this is. Is there anything that is too hard for the Lord. Nothing is impossible with God, even though circumstances may look otherwise. God is all powerful. There is no one greater than He is. No one can thwart the plans and the intentions of God. And, God want us to put our trust in Him.
4. God is the one who will deal with our enemies.
Psalm 108:13b For it is He who shall tread down our enemies.
Now David specifies why he needed God's help. It was because of the enemies of David. David did not want to try and deal with his enemies by his own strength, or in his own power. Rather, He was looking to God to deal with them. He realized that God could tread them down. He knew that God could trample down His foes.
This is also how God calls us to act and to trust. Leave your enemies in God's hands. If anything, pray for them as Christ has instructed us. But, leave them with God. Let the Lord take care of the situation. He is faithful. He will deal with them in His own way, and in His own time, of that you can be sure. David was.
Some questions:
1. Are you in some kind of trouble at this very time?
2. Do you know that God will help you if you look to Him?
3. You can try to fix it yourself, and even enlist the help of others, but God is the better one to look to.
4. God is able to really help you. His power is unlimited. Will you take a moment and pray right now.
5. Also, it is good to pray for our enemies. As mentioned, this is what Jesus told us to do. Will you do it now?
A prayer:
Father, You never told us that life would be without trouble. In fact, You have told us just the opposite. But, You have also told us to look to You during times of trouble, and to cast our cares upon You, because You care for us. So, today, we would like to take whatever trouble we may be facing or dealing with, or that has come upon us, and give that over to You by prayer and faith. Lord, help us through the day, to continually look to You, and to remember how great You are, and how You are able to deal with our troubles. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Psalm 108:12 Give us help from trouble, For the help of man is useless.
Psalm 108:13 Through God we will do valiantly, For it is He who shall tread down our enemies.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions and a prayer:
This 108th Psalm was written by King David. It is a Psalm where he praises God, and expresses his faith and confidence in God, and in God's ability and strength. He is also looking to God for help in the midst of trouble.
1. God will give you help when you are in trouble.
Psalm 108:12a Give us help from trouble,
David was specifically asking God to give him help from the trouble he was experiencing. We are not told what the trouble was, but David needed help, and he was looking to God for help in that trouble and with that trouble.
The word trouble here, means, enemy, adversary, distress, affliction, foes, narrow, strait. It was used to speak of being in a narrow and tight spot, to be in hard times. To be experiencing oppression.
2. The help of man is really useless.
Psalm 108:12b For the help of man is useless.
David was not discounting the love and support of his friends and of his armies. But, rather, he was comparing what God can do with what man can do. And, there is no comparison. God can do what man cannot do.
And, God does not call us to put our hope and trust in either ourselves, or in others, but rather in God Himself.
And, that's what David was seeking to do.
3. With God's help we can do mighty things.
Psalm 108:13a Through God we will do valiantly,
Here David expresses what man can do with God as his helper. This is what David was counting on, and it's what we can count on as well. That through God we can do valiantly. Or as the NLT reads, "With God’s help we will do mighty things," How true this is. Is there anything that is too hard for the Lord. Nothing is impossible with God, even though circumstances may look otherwise. God is all powerful. There is no one greater than He is. No one can thwart the plans and the intentions of God. And, God want us to put our trust in Him.
4. God is the one who will deal with our enemies.
Psalm 108:13b For it is He who shall tread down our enemies.
Now David specifies why he needed God's help. It was because of the enemies of David. David did not want to try and deal with his enemies by his own strength, or in his own power. Rather, He was looking to God to deal with them. He realized that God could tread them down. He knew that God could trample down His foes.
This is also how God calls us to act and to trust. Leave your enemies in God's hands. If anything, pray for them as Christ has instructed us. But, leave them with God. Let the Lord take care of the situation. He is faithful. He will deal with them in His own way, and in His own time, of that you can be sure. David was.
Some questions:
1. Are you in some kind of trouble at this very time?
2. Do you know that God will help you if you look to Him?
3. You can try to fix it yourself, and even enlist the help of others, but God is the better one to look to.
4. God is able to really help you. His power is unlimited. Will you take a moment and pray right now.
5. Also, it is good to pray for our enemies. As mentioned, this is what Jesus told us to do. Will you do it now?
A prayer:
Father, You never told us that life would be without trouble. In fact, You have told us just the opposite. But, You have also told us to look to You during times of trouble, and to cast our cares upon You, because You care for us. So, today, we would like to take whatever trouble we may be facing or dealing with, or that has come upon us, and give that over to You by prayer and faith. Lord, help us through the day, to continually look to You, and to remember how great You are, and how You are able to deal with our troubles. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT HOW TO LIVE OUR LIVES"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT HOW TO LIVE OUR LIVES"
1st Samuel 12:20 Then Samuel said to the people, “Do not fear. You have done all this wickedness; yet do not turn aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart.
1st Samuel 12:21 “And do not turn aside; for then you would go after empty things which cannot profit or deliver, for they are nothing.
1st Samuel 12:22 “For the LORD will not forsake His people, for His great name’s sake, because it has pleased the LORD to make you His people.
1st Samuel 12:23 “Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way.
1st Samuel 12:24 Only fear the LORD, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.
1st Samuel 12:25“But if you still do wickedly, you shall be swept away, both you and your king.”
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
These are some of Samuel's closing words the Children of Israel. They had been so blessed by the Lord in so many ways, yet they had gone astray, and gone after other gods. But, now they were coming to their senses as it were. And, Samuel is giving them words of wisdom. Wisdom that would bring blessing into their lives from God.
And, He gives them a warning about how to stay out of trouble also.
1. Do not fear, and do not turn aside from following the LORD, but serve Him with all your heart.
1st Samuel 12:20 Then Samuel said to the people, “Do not fear. You have done all this wickedness; yet do not turn aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart.
The children of Israel had done many great evils. And in this case, it was rejecting God, and wanting a man to rule over them. But, they began to see what they had done, and were seeking Samuel's counsel and help.
The above verse is his answer to them.
Essentially, he was saying, "Yes, you have done all this wickedness" Yet, he encouraged them not to fear, and not to turn aside from following the LORD, but serve Him with all your heart. In other words, seeing what you have done, is one thing, but move forward now, you have confessed your sins, and here is the path to follow and pursue.
2. Don't turn aside from the Lord, because they you will be going after empty things.
1st Samuel 12:21 “And do not turn aside; for then you would go after empty things which cannot profit or deliver, for they are nothing.
Samuel continues to guide them with God's wisdom. In other words, don't go back to worshipping worthless things. These things, these idols cannot help you, nor can they rescue you. They are entirely useless. So, don't turn aside from the Lord. Don't go after empty things.
3. The LORD will not forsake you.
1st Samuel 12:22 “For the LORD will not forsake His people, for His great name’s sake, because it has pleased the LORD to make you His people.
In other words, God is not going to abandon His people. If He did, that would dishonor His name. God has made you as a special people for Himself. He will not forsake You.
4. Keep praying, and be teachable. That's what Samuel said.
1st Samuel 12:23 “Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way.
In fact, Samuel considered it a sin to not pray. He also wanted to teach the people the good and the right way.
These are two very important activities in the life of the Christian. To talk to God, and let God teach you what is good and what is right. That's what you will find in His Word.
5. Fear God, Serve God in truth with all your heart. And, remember what He has done for you.
1st Samuel 12:24 Only fear the LORD, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.
Here Samuel is saying a number of things.
(1) Be sure to fear the LORD.
(2) And sincerely worship Him.
(3) Think about all the wonderful things He has done for you.
6. If you do wickedly, you will be swept away.
1st Samuel 12:25“But if you still do wickedly, you shall be swept away, both you and your king.”
This is Samuel's warning to the people. Or as the NLT puts it, " But if you continue to sin, you and your king will be destroyed.”
They had sinned, and were now acknowledging their sin, and were being taught and encouraged to move forward in God's will. But, this is a reminder, to not repeat what they had done, or the same consequences would come upon them. Don't forsake the Lord to Your own hurt is the idea. It will only bring destruction into your lives.
Some questions:
1. Do you know, that even when we sin, and do wickedly, that God still loves us and, wants us to come back to Him.
2. Can you see all of the many simple and clear steps to take that bring you into the realm where God is able to bless your life?.
3. Please take a moment to just go back over the verses and pause a little, and consider the instruction of God that leads to the blessing of God.
4. Remember, warnings are good for us. Warnings serve to help keep us out of trouble. Would You take just a moment, to see if God is warning you about anything, and if He is, would you thank Him, and then let Him know You want to obey and respond to His warnings?.
A prayer:
Father, Your Word is so rich and encouraging. You have given these wonderful true OT stories for our learning.
Please help us to not take them lightly, or for granted. But, to be sober minded, and to be serious about our walk with You. You are serious about wanting to bless and lead us in Your ways. May we reciprocate by being serious believers and doers of Your Word. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
1st Samuel 12:20 Then Samuel said to the people, “Do not fear. You have done all this wickedness; yet do not turn aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart.
1st Samuel 12:21 “And do not turn aside; for then you would go after empty things which cannot profit or deliver, for they are nothing.
1st Samuel 12:22 “For the LORD will not forsake His people, for His great name’s sake, because it has pleased the LORD to make you His people.
1st Samuel 12:23 “Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way.
1st Samuel 12:24 Only fear the LORD, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.
1st Samuel 12:25“But if you still do wickedly, you shall be swept away, both you and your king.”
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
These are some of Samuel's closing words the Children of Israel. They had been so blessed by the Lord in so many ways, yet they had gone astray, and gone after other gods. But, now they were coming to their senses as it were. And, Samuel is giving them words of wisdom. Wisdom that would bring blessing into their lives from God.
And, He gives them a warning about how to stay out of trouble also.
1. Do not fear, and do not turn aside from following the LORD, but serve Him with all your heart.
1st Samuel 12:20 Then Samuel said to the people, “Do not fear. You have done all this wickedness; yet do not turn aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart.
The children of Israel had done many great evils. And in this case, it was rejecting God, and wanting a man to rule over them. But, they began to see what they had done, and were seeking Samuel's counsel and help.
The above verse is his answer to them.
Essentially, he was saying, "Yes, you have done all this wickedness" Yet, he encouraged them not to fear, and not to turn aside from following the LORD, but serve Him with all your heart. In other words, seeing what you have done, is one thing, but move forward now, you have confessed your sins, and here is the path to follow and pursue.
2. Don't turn aside from the Lord, because they you will be going after empty things.
1st Samuel 12:21 “And do not turn aside; for then you would go after empty things which cannot profit or deliver, for they are nothing.
Samuel continues to guide them with God's wisdom. In other words, don't go back to worshipping worthless things. These things, these idols cannot help you, nor can they rescue you. They are entirely useless. So, don't turn aside from the Lord. Don't go after empty things.
3. The LORD will not forsake you.
1st Samuel 12:22 “For the LORD will not forsake His people, for His great name’s sake, because it has pleased the LORD to make you His people.
In other words, God is not going to abandon His people. If He did, that would dishonor His name. God has made you as a special people for Himself. He will not forsake You.
4. Keep praying, and be teachable. That's what Samuel said.
1st Samuel 12:23 “Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way.
In fact, Samuel considered it a sin to not pray. He also wanted to teach the people the good and the right way.
These are two very important activities in the life of the Christian. To talk to God, and let God teach you what is good and what is right. That's what you will find in His Word.
5. Fear God, Serve God in truth with all your heart. And, remember what He has done for you.
1st Samuel 12:24 Only fear the LORD, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.
Here Samuel is saying a number of things.
(1) Be sure to fear the LORD.
(2) And sincerely worship Him.
(3) Think about all the wonderful things He has done for you.
6. If you do wickedly, you will be swept away.
1st Samuel 12:25“But if you still do wickedly, you shall be swept away, both you and your king.”
This is Samuel's warning to the people. Or as the NLT puts it, " But if you continue to sin, you and your king will be destroyed.”
They had sinned, and were now acknowledging their sin, and were being taught and encouraged to move forward in God's will. But, this is a reminder, to not repeat what they had done, or the same consequences would come upon them. Don't forsake the Lord to Your own hurt is the idea. It will only bring destruction into your lives.
Some questions:
1. Do you know, that even when we sin, and do wickedly, that God still loves us and, wants us to come back to Him.
2. Can you see all of the many simple and clear steps to take that bring you into the realm where God is able to bless your life?.
3. Please take a moment to just go back over the verses and pause a little, and consider the instruction of God that leads to the blessing of God.
4. Remember, warnings are good for us. Warnings serve to help keep us out of trouble. Would You take just a moment, to see if God is warning you about anything, and if He is, would you thank Him, and then let Him know You want to obey and respond to His warnings?.
A prayer:
Father, Your Word is so rich and encouraging. You have given these wonderful true OT stories for our learning.
Please help us to not take them lightly, or for granted. But, to be sober minded, and to be serious about our walk with You. You are serious about wanting to bless and lead us in Your ways. May we reciprocate by being serious believers and doers of Your Word. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia
Monday, May 12, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ON HOW TO DEAL WITH ANGER, AND OTHER BITS OF WISDOM"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ON HOW TO DEAL WITH ANGER, AND OTHER BITS OF WISDOM"
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:2 The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, But the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.
Proverbs 15:3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place, Keeping watch on the evil and the good.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
It has been said, that the " Book of Psalms, was written mostly by King David tells us how to look up", and that the Book of Proverbs, largely authored by David's Son, King Solomon, "tells us how to wise up"
"The Book of Psalms helps us to fill us with praise to God, but we also need guidance in the most practical of matters each day. These two books are at the heart of the Bible. Psalms keep our thoughts on heaven; Proverbs keeps our feet on earth" Dr. David Jeremiah.
These 3 verses give us God's guidance on several issues we as we walk this pilgrim path towards our heavenly home with Jesus Christ.
1. Here's God's wisdom on how to deal with an angry person.
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
Or, to put it another way, if we answer someone with a gentle answer, it will help to turn away their wrath, or their anger. But, if we answer them in a harsh way, it will stir up anger. Perhaps in them, and in us.
There is no end to the potential angry encounters we might face on any given day. But, what we have here is God's prescription on how to deal with those angry encounters. God is the wisest person there is. And, He does not lie, in fact, He cannot. So, His teaching for us on how to deal with an angry encounter is found right here.
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
Soft means, tender, delicate, gentle. Harsh on the other hand, means, sorrow, labour, grievous, pain, hardship.
2. Here's how to be wise in the use of our tongues. And, also what a fool does with his tongue.
Proverbs 15:2 The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, But the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.
A wise man will use knowledge in the right way. Or, as the NLT says, " The wise person makes learning a joy"
Isn't that interesting. We can actually, by God's grace, power, and guidance, use the knowledge He has given us, and, when speaking actually experience joy. We can learn as we speak, and have joy in doing so,
But, and, how many times have we experienced this next part.
Proverbs 15:2b But the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness. Or again, as the NLT says, "Fools spout only foolishness"
Wise means, a wise man, cunning, subtle, skillful, learned, prudent. Wise ethically and religiously.
Fools means, foolish, stupid, dullard, simpleton, arrogant one.
Lord, please help us to be wise, and not foolish.
3. Here is a comforting or uncomfortable truth about our LORD and His eyes.
Proverbs 15:3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place, Keeping watch on the evil and the good.
Now, I say comforting, but, it may not sound comforting if a person is trying to hide something, something they know is not right. On the other hand, it is comforting to know that God who is all knowledgeable is constantly watching everywhere, and He is keeping His eye on both the evil and the good.
We can't see everything, but God can without any trouble. He is very aware of everything that is happening.
He sees both the evil and the good.
Sometimes we wonder about evil that is going on, and think where is the Lord, doesn't He see this? Yes, He does. And, what a joy to also know, that He sees the good that is taking place. What a great and awesome God we serve and know.
Some questions:
1. Can you remember the last time you "flew off the handle?. A nice way of saying, "you lost your self control, or temper?
2. Do you remember how it made you feel? I'm sure you do. It's not very pleasant.
3. Do you know that God is not mad at you for getting mad?
4. Do you know that God will help you if you ask Him to?.
5. How would you measure the use of your tongue at this time in your life?. Are you using it wisely, or foolishly?.
6. Are you concerned about someone or some persons who are doing evil things?.
7. Will you please take comfort in knowing that God knows about it. And, He will deal with it in His own perfect timing.
8. How about this. What about the good that is being done, either towards you, or by you towards others.
Will you take great delight in knowing that God sees it, and it matters to Him. And, He is very aware of every detail involved.
A prayer:
Father, Your Proverbs through Solomon and others are so close to home. They hit us right where we live.
Thank You for giving them to us. And, we ask that in Your giving them to us, that You would also give us hearts that understand Your wisdom, and want to put it into practice in our day to day lives. Thank You in advance, In Jesus name, Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:2 The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, But the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.
Proverbs 15:3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place, Keeping watch on the evil and the good.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
It has been said, that the " Book of Psalms, was written mostly by King David tells us how to look up", and that the Book of Proverbs, largely authored by David's Son, King Solomon, "tells us how to wise up"
"The Book of Psalms helps us to fill us with praise to God, but we also need guidance in the most practical of matters each day. These two books are at the heart of the Bible. Psalms keep our thoughts on heaven; Proverbs keeps our feet on earth" Dr. David Jeremiah.
These 3 verses give us God's guidance on several issues we as we walk this pilgrim path towards our heavenly home with Jesus Christ.
1. Here's God's wisdom on how to deal with an angry person.
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
Or, to put it another way, if we answer someone with a gentle answer, it will help to turn away their wrath, or their anger. But, if we answer them in a harsh way, it will stir up anger. Perhaps in them, and in us.
There is no end to the potential angry encounters we might face on any given day. But, what we have here is God's prescription on how to deal with those angry encounters. God is the wisest person there is. And, He does not lie, in fact, He cannot. So, His teaching for us on how to deal with an angry encounter is found right here.
Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
Soft means, tender, delicate, gentle. Harsh on the other hand, means, sorrow, labour, grievous, pain, hardship.
2. Here's how to be wise in the use of our tongues. And, also what a fool does with his tongue.
Proverbs 15:2 The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, But the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.
A wise man will use knowledge in the right way. Or, as the NLT says, " The wise person makes learning a joy"
Isn't that interesting. We can actually, by God's grace, power, and guidance, use the knowledge He has given us, and, when speaking actually experience joy. We can learn as we speak, and have joy in doing so,
But, and, how many times have we experienced this next part.
Proverbs 15:2b But the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness. Or again, as the NLT says, "Fools spout only foolishness"
Wise means, a wise man, cunning, subtle, skillful, learned, prudent. Wise ethically and religiously.
Fools means, foolish, stupid, dullard, simpleton, arrogant one.
Lord, please help us to be wise, and not foolish.
3. Here is a comforting or uncomfortable truth about our LORD and His eyes.
Proverbs 15:3 The eyes of the LORD are in every place, Keeping watch on the evil and the good.
Now, I say comforting, but, it may not sound comforting if a person is trying to hide something, something they know is not right. On the other hand, it is comforting to know that God who is all knowledgeable is constantly watching everywhere, and He is keeping His eye on both the evil and the good.
We can't see everything, but God can without any trouble. He is very aware of everything that is happening.
He sees both the evil and the good.
Sometimes we wonder about evil that is going on, and think where is the Lord, doesn't He see this? Yes, He does. And, what a joy to also know, that He sees the good that is taking place. What a great and awesome God we serve and know.
Some questions:
1. Can you remember the last time you "flew off the handle?. A nice way of saying, "you lost your self control, or temper?
2. Do you remember how it made you feel? I'm sure you do. It's not very pleasant.
3. Do you know that God is not mad at you for getting mad?
4. Do you know that God will help you if you ask Him to?.
5. How would you measure the use of your tongue at this time in your life?. Are you using it wisely, or foolishly?.
6. Are you concerned about someone or some persons who are doing evil things?.
7. Will you please take comfort in knowing that God knows about it. And, He will deal with it in His own perfect timing.
8. How about this. What about the good that is being done, either towards you, or by you towards others.
Will you take great delight in knowing that God sees it, and it matters to Him. And, He is very aware of every detail involved.
A prayer:
Father, Your Proverbs through Solomon and others are so close to home. They hit us right where we live.
Thank You for giving them to us. And, we ask that in Your giving them to us, that You would also give us hearts that understand Your wisdom, and want to put it into practice in our day to day lives. Thank You in advance, In Jesus name, Amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Saturday, May 10, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE CONCERNING THE WILL OF JESUS CHRIST"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE CONCERNING THE WILL OF JESUS CHRIST"
John 6:38 “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.
John 6:39 “This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.
John 6:40 “And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.”“This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
1. Jesus came from heaven to earth.
John 6:38 “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.
Please notice that Jesus was in heaven, and then came down from heaven to the earth. Heaven is thought to be above. The Hebrew word for Heaven is Shamayim, which means "the heights" . So, Jesus was in heaven above, but He then came down from heaven to earth. We call this the incarnation. When God became man and dwelt among us. John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
2. Jesus did not come here to do His own will.
John 6:38 “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.
Jesus explains that the purpose of His coming to earth was not to do His own will ( which He had by the way ) but, rather it was to do the will of the Father who sent Him to the earth.
Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” The Word serve means, to minister unto, to be an attendant, to wait upon, to attend to anything that may serve another's interests. And of course, His greatest act of servanthood, was His death on the cross for our sins.
3. Jesus came to earth to do the will of Him who sent Him.
John 6:38 “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.
Being a servant, Jesus's mission was to do the will of the Father. So, He came not to do His will, but the will of another, even of God the Father, our Father in heaven. How wonderful and interesting it is, to consider that our Lord and master while He was here, was actually here serving His Father. What an example for us.
4. Jesus came to receive those given Him by the Father.
John 6:39 “This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.
Now Jesus explains in some detail what the Father's will was for Jesus, and what it is even today.
Here it is. All that the Father would give to Jesus, (those who would believe) that Jesus would not lose one of them. Wow. What a comforting truth from God. We who have believed are said to be those that are given by the Father to Jesus. And, Jesus who has received us is telling us that He will not lose even one. The word lose means, to perish, destroy, be lost. To be ruined and to be destroyed.
So, we have been given to Jesus, and His will is to make sure we are safe and sound with Him. Thank You Jesus.
1 Peter 1:5 who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
5. Jesus's mission was not to lose any who were given to Him, but to raise them up on the last day.
John 6:39 “This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.
Not only are we given to Jesus, and His mission was and is not to lose any of us, but also that He would raise us up at the last day. So, We are given by the Father to Jesus. Jesus receives us and holds us. And, then at the last day, Jesus is going to raise up our bodies from the dead.
1 Peter 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
6. Jesus explains further detail about the will of God.
John 6:40 “And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.”“This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.
For all who believe, we have received everlasting life, and are promised to be raised on the last day. We are also promised that Jesus will not lose any of those who believe. ( in fact, in these verses, He has said this twice )
So, we have believed, and have received everlasting life. We have believed and have the promise from Jesus that two things are going to happen.
(1) We will not be lost by Jesus.
(2) We will be raised up on the last day.
Some questions:
1. Are you looking for an example to follow in your life? Jesus would be the best one there is.
2. We have the choice to do our will, or to do God's will. Which do you think is better to do?
3. How would you describe your life at this time? Are you doing your will, or God's Will?
4. How does it make you feel to know that the Father has given you to Jesus to keep and to hold?.
5. Do you ever worry if your going to make it to heaven?
6. These verses, ought to bring you great comfort. Are you believing them?
A prayer:
Father, thank You for this beautiful Gospel of John. And, thank You for sending Jesus, and thank You Jesus for coming to the earth. Father, thank You for giving us to Jesus. And, Jesus, thank You for receiving us, and for promising to hold onto us, and not lose us. Thank You also Lord, that we have Your promise that we will be raised up, in the last day. In Jesus name. Amen,
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
John 6:38 “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.
John 6:39 “This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.
John 6:40 “And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.”“This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
1. Jesus came from heaven to earth.
John 6:38 “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.
Please notice that Jesus was in heaven, and then came down from heaven to the earth. Heaven is thought to be above. The Hebrew word for Heaven is Shamayim, which means "the heights" . So, Jesus was in heaven above, but He then came down from heaven to earth. We call this the incarnation. When God became man and dwelt among us. John 1:14 And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
2. Jesus did not come here to do His own will.
John 6:38 “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.
Jesus explains that the purpose of His coming to earth was not to do His own will ( which He had by the way ) but, rather it was to do the will of the Father who sent Him to the earth.
Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many.” The Word serve means, to minister unto, to be an attendant, to wait upon, to attend to anything that may serve another's interests. And of course, His greatest act of servanthood, was His death on the cross for our sins.
3. Jesus came to earth to do the will of Him who sent Him.
John 6:38 “For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me.
Being a servant, Jesus's mission was to do the will of the Father. So, He came not to do His will, but the will of another, even of God the Father, our Father in heaven. How wonderful and interesting it is, to consider that our Lord and master while He was here, was actually here serving His Father. What an example for us.
4. Jesus came to receive those given Him by the Father.
John 6:39 “This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.
Now Jesus explains in some detail what the Father's will was for Jesus, and what it is even today.
Here it is. All that the Father would give to Jesus, (those who would believe) that Jesus would not lose one of them. Wow. What a comforting truth from God. We who have believed are said to be those that are given by the Father to Jesus. And, Jesus who has received us is telling us that He will not lose even one. The word lose means, to perish, destroy, be lost. To be ruined and to be destroyed.
So, we have been given to Jesus, and His will is to make sure we are safe and sound with Him. Thank You Jesus.
1 Peter 1:5 who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.
5. Jesus's mission was not to lose any who were given to Him, but to raise them up on the last day.
John 6:39 “This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.
Not only are we given to Jesus, and His mission was and is not to lose any of us, but also that He would raise us up at the last day. So, We are given by the Father to Jesus. Jesus receives us and holds us. And, then at the last day, Jesus is going to raise up our bodies from the dead.
1 Peter 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
6. Jesus explains further detail about the will of God.
John 6:40 “And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in Him may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day.”“This is the will of the Father who sent Me, that of all He has given Me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day.
For all who believe, we have received everlasting life, and are promised to be raised on the last day. We are also promised that Jesus will not lose any of those who believe. ( in fact, in these verses, He has said this twice )
So, we have believed, and have received everlasting life. We have believed and have the promise from Jesus that two things are going to happen.
(1) We will not be lost by Jesus.
(2) We will be raised up on the last day.
Some questions:
1. Are you looking for an example to follow in your life? Jesus would be the best one there is.
2. We have the choice to do our will, or to do God's will. Which do you think is better to do?
3. How would you describe your life at this time? Are you doing your will, or God's Will?
4. How does it make you feel to know that the Father has given you to Jesus to keep and to hold?.
5. Do you ever worry if your going to make it to heaven?
6. These verses, ought to bring you great comfort. Are you believing them?
A prayer:
Father, thank You for this beautiful Gospel of John. And, thank You for sending Jesus, and thank You Jesus for coming to the earth. Father, thank You for giving us to Jesus. And, Jesus, thank You for receiving us, and for promising to hold onto us, and not lose us. Thank You also Lord, that we have Your promise that we will be raised up, in the last day. In Jesus name. Amen,
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
Friday, May 9, 2014
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT, GOING FROM DEFEAT TO VICTORY"
"SHARING HOPE THROUGH SCRIPTURE ABOUT, GOING FROM DEFEAT TO VICTORY"
1st Samuel 6:3 Then Samuel spoke to all the house of Israel, saying, “If you return to the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths from among you, and prepare your hearts for the LORD, and serve Him only; and He will deliver you from the hand of the Philistines.”
1st Samuel 6:4 So the children of Israel put away the Baals and the Ashtoreths, and served the LORD only.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
The above verses come on the heels of a 20 year period where Israel was lamenting their sad condition. They were being beaten down by the Philistines, and would experiencing what you might call a "Spiritual Drought" All due to the way they had been living. Which was in direct disobedience to the Lord. They were suffering the consequences of their actions. But, the two verses above also tell us how God brought them out of defeat and into victory through His servant Samuel.
1. You can return to the Lord if You have been drifting or away from Him. 1st Samuel 6:3 Then Samuel spoke to all the house of Israel, saying, “If you return to the LORD. If you were to read backwards from 1st Sam 6, you would see the ungodly way God's people were living. They were not much different from the pagan nations around them. In fact, it would be more accurate to say they were living just like the pagans were. But, as we are going to see they did return to the Lord, and they did so through the counsel of Samuel, who was God's deliver to them. The following verses contain the counsel that Samuel gave the children of Israel. They show how they went from defeat to victory. And, if you are in defeat at this time, you also can come to victory.
2. You can return to the Lord with all of your heart. 1st Samuel 6:3 Then Samuel spoke to all the house of Israel, saying, “If you return to the LORD with all your hearts, This was the first thing that Samuel told them. It had to do with their hearts and a one step process. Look what Samuel told them. “If you return to the LORD with all your hearts". So, two things here.
(1) Return to the LORD. This is speaking of repentance. The word means to turn, turn back, recover, come back.
Rom 2:4 Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and long suffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?
(2) With all your hearts. The idea here is "If you are really serious about wanting to return to the LORD" In other words, this meant a true, total, full on, commitment to the Lord. A complete and total heart consecration to the Lord. Not half heartedly, but fully. Ps 119:2 Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, Who seek Him with the whole heart! The words "whole heart" means the entirety of who you are, your complete inner man, your mind, your will, and your understanding.
3. You return to the Lord by putting away things that don't belong in your life. 1st Samuel 6:3 Then Samuel spoke to all the house of Israel, saying, “If you return to the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths from among you, As mentioned earlier, the people had begun living like the pagans around them. They had given themselves over to idolatry and perversion. Returning the LORD, repenting means, to put the things out of your life that do not belong in your life. If you are to return to the Lord, You must put away the things that God does not want you to have in your life.
Matt 3:8 “Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance,
Acts 17:30 “Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent,
2Ch 7:14* 2nd Chronicles 7:14 “if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
4. You return to the Lord by preparing your hearts for the Lord..
1st Samuel 6:3b and prepare your hearts for the LORD, and serve Him only; and He will deliver you from the hand of the Philistines.” The idea here is that of determining to obey only the LORD. Then there is the promise that He will rescue you from your enemies. ( which they had been plagued by ) In their case, it was the Philistines, in our case, it can be our own fleshly nature, the ungodly world around us, and the enemies of our souls, the devil and his demons.
5. Your return to the LORD is a real possibility. It can be done. It was done by the children of Israel.
1st Samuel 6:4 So the Israelites destroyed their images of Baal and Ashtoreth and worshiped only the LORD.
The children of Israel acted upon the Word of God given them by Samuel. They were not just hearers, but doers also. And, that's God's prescription for You and I.
Some questions:
1. Would you say you are at this very time, living in defeat or in victory?
2. Have you in the past been brought from defeat to victory?
3. Can you see the principles above are the way to victory?
4. Is there anything you need to do ( if you are in defeat ) taken from these verses and do?
5. Would You thank the Lord today for His unfailing love for you, and that it's His goodness that leads you to repentance.
6. Do you know anyone whom you might be able to share this devotional with, that would be helped by it?
A prayer:
Father, Your Word never ceases to bless us. You correct us, You reprove us. You guide us, You instruct us, You help make us strong, You give us wisdom. And we see Your grace, love and mercy everywhere we look. Thank You for the truth of Your Word. You are the deliverer. We are the one's in need of what You alone can provide. Please help us to act upon it. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
1st Samuel 6:3 Then Samuel spoke to all the house of Israel, saying, “If you return to the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths from among you, and prepare your hearts for the LORD, and serve Him only; and He will deliver you from the hand of the Philistines.”
1st Samuel 6:4 So the children of Israel put away the Baals and the Ashtoreths, and served the LORD only.
Some explanatory thoughts/application/questions, and a prayer:
The above verses come on the heels of a 20 year period where Israel was lamenting their sad condition. They were being beaten down by the Philistines, and would experiencing what you might call a "Spiritual Drought" All due to the way they had been living. Which was in direct disobedience to the Lord. They were suffering the consequences of their actions. But, the two verses above also tell us how God brought them out of defeat and into victory through His servant Samuel.
1. You can return to the Lord if You have been drifting or away from Him. 1st Samuel 6:3 Then Samuel spoke to all the house of Israel, saying, “If you return to the LORD. If you were to read backwards from 1st Sam 6, you would see the ungodly way God's people were living. They were not much different from the pagan nations around them. In fact, it would be more accurate to say they were living just like the pagans were. But, as we are going to see they did return to the Lord, and they did so through the counsel of Samuel, who was God's deliver to them. The following verses contain the counsel that Samuel gave the children of Israel. They show how they went from defeat to victory. And, if you are in defeat at this time, you also can come to victory.
2. You can return to the Lord with all of your heart. 1st Samuel 6:3 Then Samuel spoke to all the house of Israel, saying, “If you return to the LORD with all your hearts, This was the first thing that Samuel told them. It had to do with their hearts and a one step process. Look what Samuel told them. “If you return to the LORD with all your hearts". So, two things here.
(1) Return to the LORD. This is speaking of repentance. The word means to turn, turn back, recover, come back.
Rom 2:4 Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and long suffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?
(2) With all your hearts. The idea here is "If you are really serious about wanting to return to the LORD" In other words, this meant a true, total, full on, commitment to the Lord. A complete and total heart consecration to the Lord. Not half heartedly, but fully. Ps 119:2 Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, Who seek Him with the whole heart! The words "whole heart" means the entirety of who you are, your complete inner man, your mind, your will, and your understanding.
3. You return to the Lord by putting away things that don't belong in your life. 1st Samuel 6:3 Then Samuel spoke to all the house of Israel, saying, “If you return to the LORD with all your hearts, then put away the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths from among you, As mentioned earlier, the people had begun living like the pagans around them. They had given themselves over to idolatry and perversion. Returning the LORD, repenting means, to put the things out of your life that do not belong in your life. If you are to return to the Lord, You must put away the things that God does not want you to have in your life.
Matt 3:8 “Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance,
Acts 17:30 “Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent,
2Ch 7:14* 2nd Chronicles 7:14 “if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.
4. You return to the Lord by preparing your hearts for the Lord..
1st Samuel 6:3b and prepare your hearts for the LORD, and serve Him only; and He will deliver you from the hand of the Philistines.” The idea here is that of determining to obey only the LORD. Then there is the promise that He will rescue you from your enemies. ( which they had been plagued by ) In their case, it was the Philistines, in our case, it can be our own fleshly nature, the ungodly world around us, and the enemies of our souls, the devil and his demons.
5. Your return to the LORD is a real possibility. It can be done. It was done by the children of Israel.
1st Samuel 6:4 So the Israelites destroyed their images of Baal and Ashtoreth and worshiped only the LORD.
The children of Israel acted upon the Word of God given them by Samuel. They were not just hearers, but doers also. And, that's God's prescription for You and I.
Some questions:
1. Would you say you are at this very time, living in defeat or in victory?
2. Have you in the past been brought from defeat to victory?
3. Can you see the principles above are the way to victory?
4. Is there anything you need to do ( if you are in defeat ) taken from these verses and do?
5. Would You thank the Lord today for His unfailing love for you, and that it's His goodness that leads you to repentance.
6. Do you know anyone whom you might be able to share this devotional with, that would be helped by it?
A prayer:
Father, Your Word never ceases to bless us. You correct us, You reprove us. You guide us, You instruct us, You help make us strong, You give us wisdom. And we see Your grace, love and mercy everywhere we look. Thank You for the truth of Your Word. You are the deliverer. We are the one's in need of what You alone can provide. Please help us to act upon it. In Jesus name, amen.
Pastor Bob Grenier
Calvary Chapel Visalia.
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