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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #9718 is a reply to message #9702] |
Wed, 04 September 2013 15:43   |
 james
Messages: 2138
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Location: Birmingham, AL |
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"I will praise Thee with my whole heart: before the gods will I sing praise unto Thee.
I will worship toward Thy holy temple, and praise Thy name for Thy lovingkindness and for Thy truth:
for Thou hast magnified Thy Word above all Thy Name.
In the day when I cried Thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul.
All the kings of the earth shall praise Thee, O LORD, when they hear the words of Thy mouth.
Yea, they shall sing in the ways of The LORD: for great is the glory of The LORD.
Though The LORD be high, yet hath He respect unto the lowly: but the proud He knoweth afar off.
Though I walk in the midst of trouble, Thou wilt revive me: Thou shalt stretch forth Thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and Thy right hand shall save me.
The LORD will perfect that which concerneth me: Thy mercy, O LORD, endureth for ever: forsake not the works of Thine own hands." Psalms 138
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #9724 is a reply to message #9718] |
Sat, 07 September 2013 15:04 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
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Fountains of Blessings...
"...The water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."John 4:14 NKJV
"The picture our Lord described here is not that of a simple stream of water, but an overflowing fountain. Continue to "be filled" (Ephesians 5:18) and the sweetness of your vital relationship to Jesus will flow as generously out of you as it has been given to you. If you find that His life is not springing up as it should, you are to blame-something is obstructing the flow. Was Jesus saying to stay focused on the Source so that you may be blessed personally? No, you are to focus on the Source so that out of you "will flow rivers of living water"-irrepressible life.(John 7:39)"
taken from today's, Sept.7, daily devotional by Oswald Chambers titled, "My Utmost for His Highest".
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #9765 is a reply to message #9724] |
Sat, 14 September 2013 15:46 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Our Hidden Treasure...The Light of Jesus
"For GOD, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of GOD in the face of Jesus Christ.
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of GOD, and not of us." II Corinthians 4:6-7
What an encouraging part of Paul's letter to the Corinthians is chapter four. We're reminded of the additude we should strive for when adversity comes our way and why we have this seemingly foolish mindset(by the world's standards).
"While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal."II Corinthians 4:18
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #9773 is a reply to message #9765] |
Mon, 16 September 2013 21:07 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
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OUR HOPE...
"Behold, what manner of love The Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew Him not.
Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.
And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure." I John 3:1-3
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #9775 is a reply to message #9774] |
Tue, 17 September 2013 12:52 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Overcoming Temptations...
"Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;
And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;
And did all eat the same spiritual meat;
And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.
But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.
Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.
Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.
Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.
Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.
Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.
Now all these things happened unto them for examples: and they are written for OUR admonition, upon who the ends of the world are come.
Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but GOD is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that which ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry." I Corinthians 10:1-14
Temptations are part of life; we're given choices daily and our choices reflect what's in our heart, yeilded and obedient unto God or led by our 'self' desires and old nature(btw: a form of idolatry). But the good news is this: God WILL make a way of escape...IF we will look to Him with our WHOLE heart, truely seeking to overcome our selfish flesh and follow Him and Him alone.
We are given example after example of Israel's rebellion and sins; yet how many times have we fallen into the same fleshly, self-centered, traps as they did? We can walk in victory, we can overcome, by taking heed to God's Word and using their examples to teach us to flee idolatry...draw near unto God, abide in Him, and repent if and when we fall to a temptation. Re-focus on Jesus and press on in Him, putting the pass behind and looking to Him to perfect that which He started.
[Updated on: Tue, 17 September 2013 12:54]
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #9793 is a reply to message #9076] |
Sun, 22 September 2013 22:24 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
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| james wrote on Wed, 19 September 2012 15:15 |
One thing's for certain, if we don't 'get' chapter 13 right(we, being the Body of Christ), none of the plan is going to come into maturity as is outlined in The Word. Without LOVE there'll be no unity, and without unity the gifts aren't going to manifest for the edification of the Body...The Bride, to be without spot or blemish is in desperate need of the power and presence of Jesus Christ in our life's and when it is the world will KNOW it..."By this, shall all men know that ye are My disciples, by your LOVE one for another."
Yeah, we do see through a glass darkly now, and our knowlwdge is limited at this time and we learn more daily as we walk with and abide 'in' Him...But the LOVE part is up to us(imo).
So how does a person love someone whom they've never seen, who's only contact is through a computer or phone? May I suggest by praying for one another, by encouraging one another, by sharing testimonies of God's working in our lives to edify and build each others faith. Hey, it's possible to love someone you've not seen; God tells us to love Him with ALL our hearts...anyone ever seen Him? Jesus said blessed are those whom having NOT seen yet believe...In HIM, Jesus. We're told if we can't love those around us who we can see (our brothers and sisters), how can we love God who we haven't seen.
We got a good foundation in FAITH and Biblical theology, but we might could use a little work in the LOVE department...'we' being those with ties to FA.
"Though I...though I... though I...AND HAVE NOT LOVE...I am nothing."
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"Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not LOVE, I have become sounding brass, or a clanging cymbal.
And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, amd though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not LOVE, I AM NOTHING.
And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not LOVE, IT PROFITS ME NOTHING.
LOVE suffers long and is kind; LOVE does not envy; LOVE does not parade itself; is not puffed up;
Does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil.
Does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth;
Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
LOVE never fails...
And now abide faith, hope, LOVE, these three; but the greatest of these is LOVE."
I Corinthians 13: 1-8&13 NKJV
Just re-examining my own heart reading this post I wrote a year ago; today someone taught from the text of chapter 13 and it was good. I 'want' to believe I've grown in the way I show love to others over the last year,I'm reminded that while it's nice to hear "I love you", only our actions prove if we do or not.
The world won't know we're Jesus' disciples by our many words, but by our LOVE one for another through godly, loving actions...as well as our love for them displayed by sharing what we've been given...the hope of eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour, the Gospel message of reconciliation unto God by The shed Blood of Christ. All possible because of God's great LOVE...John 3:16
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #9838 is a reply to message #9793] |
Sat, 28 September 2013 08:51 |
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Gary
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Location: Indiana |
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There are a number of scriptures that I appreciate what they are saying in a very real sense. One of these passages is found in Luke's Gospel:
Jesus tells Peter that he is going to deny him before the night is over:
31 And the Lord said, “Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren.”
33 But he said to Him, “Lord, I am ready to go with You, both to prison and to death.”
34 Then He said, “I tell you, Peter, the rooster shall not crow this day before you will deny three times that you know Me.”
Peter in Marks gospel argues with the Lord stating he would never deny the Lord:
31 But he spoke more vehemently, “If I have to die with You, I will not deny You!”
Later everything changes, men come with weapons, a small mob has come to take Jesus away. Peter follows at a distance to see what is going to happen.
This is the part that I wanted to share, I have always been moved by this scripture feeling the emotions that Peter surely felt:
55 Now when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the courtyard and sat down together, Peter sat among them. 56 And a certain servant girl, seeing him as he sat by the fire, looked intently at him and said, “This man was also with Him.”
57 But he denied Him, saying, “Woman, I do not know Him.”
58 And after a little while another saw him and said, “You also are of them.”
But Peter said, “Man, I am not!”
59 Then after about an hour had passed, another confidently affirmed, saying, “Surely this fellow also was with Him, for he is a Galilean.”
60 But Peter said, “Man, I do not know what you are saying!”
Immediately, while he was still speaking, the rooster crowed. 61 And the Lord turned and looked at Peter. Then Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had said to him, “Before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times.” 62 So Peter went out and wept bitterly.
To be there and have the Lord to turn, and look at you, as you "remember", that He said; this is going to take place, must of been totally heart rending for Peter. Can you picture this in your heart and mind?
We must remember the Words of the Lord as well because all that He has said, will take place. I believe Jesus is praying for us as we go forth in these end times.
Gary
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #9839 is a reply to message #9838] |
Sat, 28 September 2013 12:20 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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I CAN picture this in my heart and mind, and I too have felt the same shame and heart rending due to failing to keep my word unto The Lord. I promised to follow Him wheresoever He lead and I grabed hold of the plow determined to NEVER let go...yet I did!
Amazing Grace, Amazing Love, that God would look into time and see our sins and failing and yet love us and offer life through the sacrifice of His Son Jesus on our behalf and that Love goes even to granting repentance and restoration if/when we sin even after coming unto salvation.
One way I encourage myself is to remember that even after Peter had denied Jesus, he still was used by GOD. Forgiveness is when He remembers our sins no more and and restores us to fellowship (reconciliation) to Him...This too is a reminder to myself, how can I not be forgiving of others when I've received such great mercy...Peter told a man, "silver and gold have I none, but such as I have give I thee..." He passed on what had been given him, another chance to demonstrate he DID know Him and point others unto Him, Jesus Christ, his Lord and his Saviour.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #9851 is a reply to message #9839] |
Sun, 29 September 2013 19:38 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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The Freedom Found in Forgiveness...
Over the last year The Lord has been dealing with me concerning forgiveness, both what He's done for me, as well as what He expects from me. Recently I had a edifying discussion with a couple of Christian friends about how we are to deal with offenses, hurt feeling, and preceived ill intentions by others. I don't claim to be perfected in this area of forgiveness, yet; nor am I 'preaching' to anyone; I am offering encouragement and support.
These are some thoughts and lessons I've learned concerning forgiveness, I'm sure there are many more but these are what I believe The Lord has put on my heart to share today.
First, scripturally we're told that if we aren't forgiving of others we can't expect forgiveness ourselves from God. (Matt.6:14-15) When we fail to forgive others there are things that build up within us and robs us of being able to love the offending party as God commands us.("By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, by your love one for another.") Unforgiveness builds distance in relationship; it builds walls; it leads one to a place of hostility and bitterness.
Also, we were freely forgiven(and continue daily to be)(Matt.10:8); we should be just as ready and willing to forgive freely, without being told to. We should not only be willing to forgive but we should be the first to seek reconciliation.(Matt.5:9) Remembering again what Jesus did for us.(Romans 5:8)
Some truths I've learned the hard way:
*When we try to earn God's approval; we tend to try to make others earn our approval.
*Forgiveness and mercy doesn't keep score.
*Compassion received, results in compassion given.
*The cross we're instructed to take up daily is for the death of our self will and flesh. Dead people aren't offended.
*It's our ministry/commission given from God...reconciliation.(II Corinthians 5:18)
I had the opportunity last year to practice what I was 'preaching', when I freely and willingly from the heart forgave a situation in my life, the freedom and joy that came was something I hope I never forget.btw: It's NOT about who is right or justified...it's about "what would Jesus do?" and what did Jesus TELL us to do.
Is it hard? It's as hard as we want it to be; it's hard as long as we hang on to our 'self justifying' pride, hurts, or hang on to our position of wanting to be 'right'. The key, in my experience, is meditation upon what God our Father did for us throught His Son Jesus Christ; and just how unworthy we were to receive of that Love, Mercy, and Grace...then it's not near as 'hard' to offer the same to others...especially when we're told if we don't then don't expect it for ourselves. That'll sober a person up quick and help one to dismount from their 'high-horse'.
May we all grow in grace and love daily through the Love and Grace we've received, being forgiving frees us to do just that.
Praise Jesus.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #9881 is a reply to message #9857] |
Thu, 03 October 2013 09:59 |
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Gary
Messages: 1025
Registered: August 2008
Location: Indiana |
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Another good scripture that is very moving:
John 20:12-14
12 And she saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. 13 Then they said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping?”
She said to them, “Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him.”
14 Now when she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, and did not know that it was Jesus.
They have taken away my Lord. How sad she did not know He had risen at that moment in time.
He is alive, Praise God!
Gary
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #9978 is a reply to message #9881] |
Fri, 11 October 2013 13:29 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
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"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." Ephesians 4:32
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10013 is a reply to message #9978] |
Tue, 15 October 2013 14:02 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Childlike Faith vs Being Naive...
I was thinking about how hard it is for those who rely upon their own intellect and wisdom to receive the revelation of God and to believe His Word. I've had a tendency before coming to Christ to be naive in certain areas or just assuming the 'best' of people and situations. I had to learn the hard way to be discerning and apply wisdom.
Having gained, through experience, discernment and wisdom (not so much godly wisdom and discernment, I'm speaking here in general) it's easy to see how being 'trusting' as a little child is contrary to human experience and nature. Yet that is exactly how God tells us to become as, little children, in receiving The Kingdom of God. "Verily, I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive The Kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein." Mark 10:15
But there's a difference between having childlike faith and being naive. Concerning The Word of God, we're to believe without reservation, totally trusting Him...yet concerning all else we're told to be wise, to exercise prudence. "The simple believeth every word: but the prudent man looketh well to his going." Proverbs 14:15"A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself; but the simple pass on, and are punished."Proverbs 27:12
So the point of this is to encourage and remind us that regarding spiritual matters and God's Word, we're to embrace and receive with childlike faith; but matters of dealing with this world and it's ways we're to not be naive, but to apply the wisdom, understanding, and discernment God has given us through His Word by His Spirit.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10024 is a reply to message #10013] |
Thu, 17 October 2013 15:50 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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The Mind of Christ, The Heart of a Servant...
I was reading Luke chapter 14 this morning and in verses 12-14 Jesus was teaching and instructing on humility and the heart of a true servant. A true servant [with the mind of Christ] will look for opportunities to bless without expecting a blessing in return, just the joy of helping someone who can't help themselves. So often we [in times past] do only for family or friends because we love them, yes, but also we know more than likely they'll include us at a later date.(a meal, a gift, a favor, helps, at least love us.) But what Jesus is teaching us here is that a follower of Him, with His mind and heart(servants), we will look to bless those who are not in a position to help, feed, cloth, themselves without expecting or hoping for anything in return, even thanks and returned love. It's part of the crucified life, dying to ourselves and esteeming others above us...without seeking or expecting thanks or praise, all for the opportunity to walk even as He walked, and died...Because of His LOVE. "Let this Mind be in you..." This mind or mindset won't just overtake us automatically, we must seek it...daily.
"Then said He also to him that bade Him, When thou makest a dinner or supper, call not thy friends, or thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbors; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee.
But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind:
And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just." Luke 14:12-14
"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
But made Himself of no reputation, and took on Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of The Cross." Philippians 2:5-8
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10045 is a reply to message #4564] |
Tue, 22 October 2013 14:30 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Jesus is still speaking...are we being attentive to hear?
In the Gospel of Luke, chapter 19 after Jesus was come into Jerusalem (riding on the colt), He went into the temple and cast out the vendors and those making profit from the people.
"And He taught daily in the temple. But the chief priest and the scribes and the chief of the people sought to destroy Him,
And could not find what they might do: for all the people were very attentive to hear Him." Luke 19:47-48
His Words are still speaking life to those who will listen, who will believe His Words. Are we attentively listening?
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10057 is a reply to message #10046] |
Sat, 26 October 2013 16:12 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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In reading Luke 22 there are several important lessons taught as well as the establishing of communion. A turblent day in the life of Peter is laid out as well. We see Peter experiencing the last supper with Jesus, then the argument over who was greatest amongest the disciples, then the promise that they would judge the twelve tribes of Israel.
Then Jesus informed Peter that Satan wanted to sift him as wheat, but that He, Jesus, had prayed for him, Peter, that when he was converted, he was to strengthen his brethren. Next Peter is proclaiming how he was 'ready' to go to prison and die with Jesus. Jesus, in His love and longsuffering(knowing that before the day ended he would deny Jesus three times) told Peter the truth of his denial.
Soon after that Jesus went to pray and Peter couldn't stay awake and pray. Then as the mob took Jesus to the high priest's house; Peter followed from afar off. After that we have to account of Peter's denial, three times, and the cock crowing and Peter's rememberance of Jesus' words spoken just a short time earlier...and he went out, and wept bitterly.
Imagine the condemnation and shame Peter felt that day, he had no idea of what lay ahead for his life after Pentecost and the receiving of The Holy Spirit. He did strengthen his brethren, he did proclaim The Gospel, healing the sick and growing The Body of Christ.
Before receiving The Holy Spirit (and being converted) Peter was a man relying on his flesh and own willpower and failing time and time again(remember walking on water?)...Yet, when The Holy Spirit empowered him and he started walking in The Spirit, he was a powerful man of God, used mightily as witnessed in the book of Acts as well as the two espistles he wrote.
Isn't it an encouragement to see what God can do with a marred piece of clay? Jesus is at the righthand of God today, praying for us.........may we too learn to walk in The Spirit and strengthen our brethren.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10191 is a reply to message #10057] |
Mon, 04 November 2013 16:01 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Obedience or Independence?
"If you love Me, keep My commandments"John 14:15
"Our Lord never insists on our obedience. He stresses very definitely what we ought to do, but He never forces us to do it. We have to obey Him out of a oneness of spirit with Him. That is why whenever our Lord talked about discipleship, He prefaced it with an "If"..."If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself..." Luke 9:23
"The Lord does not give me rules, but He makes His standard very clear. If my relationship to Him is that of love, I will do what He says without hesitation. If I hesitate, it is because I love someone I have placed in competition with Him, namely, myself."
Taken from: "My Utmost for His Highest"~ Oswald Chambers
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10234 is a reply to message #10191] |
Wed, 06 November 2013 06:33 |
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Gary
Messages: 1025
Registered: August 2008
Location: Indiana |
Senior Member |
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| james wrote on Mon, 04 November 2013 10:01 |
Obedience or Independence?
"If you love Me, keep My commandments"John 14:15
"Our Lord never insists on our obedience. He stresses very definitely what we ought to do, but He never forces us to do it. We have to obey Him out of a oneness of spirit with Him. That is why whenever our Lord talked about discipleship, He prefaced it with an "If"..."If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself..." Luke 9:23
"The Lord does not give me rules, but He makes His standard very clear. If my relationship to Him is that of love, I will do what He says without hesitation. If I hesitate, it is because I love someone I have placed in competition with Him, namely, myself."
Taken from: "My Utmost for His Highest"~ Oswald Chambers
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I was thinking there is only two commandments.
I think we have to choose to walk with the Lord and then make the effort.
I woke up early this morning and was thinking about Jesus in the Garden, here He was in His early thirties facing death and no one was there for Him, the disciples were sleeping not realizing what was about to take place.
That must of been very hard to go through, He went alone and made the effort trusting the Father would take care of Him.
Now we have to make the effort as well to choose to press into the Spirit. No one will do it for us, its an individual decision that we all face.
May God give us the grace to carry on.
Gary
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10236 is a reply to message #10234] |
Wed, 06 November 2013 15:00 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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CORNERSTONE~"Hillsong"
My hope is built on nothing less
than Jesus' Blood and righteousness
I dare not trust the sweetest frame
but wholly trust in Jesus' name
When darkness seems to hide His face
I rest on His unchanging Grace
In every high and stormy gale
My anchor hold within the veil
Then He shall come with trumpets sound
Oh, may I then in Him be found
Dressed in his righteousness alone
faultless, stand before the Throne
chorus:
Christ alone, Cornerstone
Weak made strong, in The Savior's Love
Through the storm
He is Lord, Lord of All
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10244 is a reply to message #10236] |
Thu, 07 November 2013 14:12 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Over in the Eschatology section Marilyn and Gary are discussing the stars, their vast numbers and places in the heavens. This morning I was reading in Psalms and a scripture stood out to me...before I had seen and read this they were discussing.
A Psalm speaking of the wonder of God:
"He telleth the number of the stars; He calleth them ALL by [their] names." Psalms 147:4
'They' say, whoever 'they' are, that there are millions, billions, of stars...however many there are; God made them, He knows their exact location, He has them named, and He knows those names.
"Who is like unto Thee O LORD, who is like unto Thee..."
[Updated on: Thu, 07 November 2013 14:13]
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10345 is a reply to message #10244] |
Mon, 18 November 2013 18:00 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"The LORD reigneth, He is clothed with majesty; The LORD is clothed with strength, wherewith He hath girded Himself: the world also is stablished, that it cannot be moved.
Thy throne is established of old: Thou art from everlasting." Psalms 93:1-2
"I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith The LORD, which is, and which was, and which is to come, The Almighty."Revelation 1:8
A couple of scriptures to meditate upon, Jesus the same yesterday, today, and forever. He always was, He always is, and He always will be. From everlasting until everlasting, the beginning and the end. For us He suffered, died and rose again; reconciling us unto God. Restoring the relationship that our sins had destroyed. In Him, by Him, and through Him we now live. Our sins had made us enemies of God; through Christ Jesus we have been made to be friends, adopted into the household of God, as sons and daughters, made clean by His Blood.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10353 is a reply to message #10345] |
Wed, 20 November 2013 14:18 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"Blessed [be] the God and Father of our LORD Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly [places] in Christ.
According as He hath chosen is in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love.
Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to Himself, according to the good pleasure of His will.
To the praise of the glory of His grace, wherein He hath made us accepted in the beloved.
In whom we have redemption through His Blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace."Ephesians 1:3-7
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10354 is a reply to message #10353] |
Wed, 20 November 2013 20:30 |
Marilyn Crow
Messages: 598
Registered: September 2013
Location: Australia |
Senior Member |
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James,
I am so blessed by meditating on the scriptures you highlight every so often. If we didn`t believe God it would all be too much too take in or believe.
Thank you very much.
Marilyn.
Marilyn C
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10358 is a reply to message #10354] |
Wed, 20 November 2013 23:24 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Praise The Lord, any and ALL glory to Him. Yes, it blesses me as well, The Lord revealing His Word to our hearts is different than just 'reading' or copying some scriptures from The Bible. They bring life, hope, faith, joy, understanding, wisdom, direction, comfort, peace....they lead us to repentance, to the Cross, to Jesus Christ our LORD and Saviour.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10359 is a reply to message #10358] |
Thu, 21 November 2013 20:49 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Encouragement and Comfort from God's Word...
"Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee; be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." Isaiah 41:10
"When thou passest through the waters, I [will be] with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee." Isaiah 43:2
"Blessed [be] God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;
Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God."II Corinthians 1:3-4
"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away."Rev.21:4
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10391 is a reply to message #10359] |
Mon, 25 November 2013 14:44 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"...LORD, teach us to pray..."
Luke 11:1-13
I had some things I planned to share concerning this text, but as I was preparing my thoughts 'I believe' The Lord directed me to just write those five words and leave it to The Holy Spirit to minister to each heart what He desires us to learn and grow in concerning humble, effectual, fervent, godly prayers. I know my desire is to pray unto my Father as He desires.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10419 is a reply to message #10391] |
Wed, 27 November 2013 15:54 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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I'm most thankful for...
Jesus Christ
"In whom we have redemption through His Blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His Grace."Ephesians 1:7
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10461 is a reply to message #10419] |
Mon, 02 December 2013 14:24 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"Bless The LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His Holy Name.Ps. 103:1
"O give thanks unto The LORD, for He is good: for His mercy endureth for ever.
Let the redeemed of The LORD say so, whom He hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy.
Oh that men would praise The LORD for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!"Ps. 107:1-2,8
Praise and thanksgiving aren't for Sunday worship and Thanksgiving Day only; as Christians every day should be days of praise and thanksgiving, every minute of every hour our hearts should be filled with thanksgiving and praise. Our lives should reflect our thankfulness by taking every opportunity to give praise to God and to share with others what wonderful works He hath done in our lives, and what He wants to do in theirs if they will receive Him as Lord and Saviour. (btw: the testimony of our lives do reflect what our hearts are filled with)
As obedient children of God, are we seeking ways to put scripture into practice? "Let the redeemed of The LORD say so..." .........I've been redeemed, by The Blood of The Lamb...Glory, glory..." song, remember? 
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10513 is a reply to message #10461] |
Thu, 05 December 2013 10:27 |
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Gary
Messages: 1025
Registered: August 2008
Location: Indiana |
Senior Member |
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Luke 17:9-11
9 Does he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I think not.
10 So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do.’”
Luke 16:15
And He said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is highly esteemed among men is an abomination in the sight of God.
Romans 6:22
But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your fruit to holiness, and the end, everlasting life.
Matthew 20: 26 Yet it shall not be so among you; but whoever desires to become great among you, let him be your servant. 27 And whoever desires to be first among you, let him be your slave—
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10592 is a reply to message #10513] |
Mon, 09 December 2013 15:29 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"And Samuel said, Hath The LORD [as great] delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of The LORD? Behold, to obey [is] better than sacrifice, [and] to hearken than the fat of rams." 1 Samuel 15:22
"The fear of The LORD [is] the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of The Holy [is] understanding."Proverbs 9:10
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10622 is a reply to message #10592] |
Wed, 11 December 2013 14:37 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth The LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?" Micah 6:8
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10643 is a reply to message #10622] |
Thu, 12 December 2013 14:38 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Fruit...
I'm not sharing this to appear 'super spiritual' (cause I'm not!), nor is it a thus sayeth The Lord (although it comes from His Word, and He DID say it).
Please take the time to prayerfully read Galatians 5 and meditate upon verse 15 "But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another." and then think about the command to walk in the Spirit and not the flesh. Look at the fruit produced by the flesh, then see the fruit of the Spirit. As I've tried to share before, if someone came to this forum seeking to see how Christians conduct themselves, what would their impression be? Can they see the fruits that reflect lives that have died out to 'self', that don't have to justify themselves and willingly die to anything that could be perceived as 'offensive'? How can they see Jesus if they can't see love...Jesus said that by "this" shall all men know that ye are My disciples...by your love one for another.
This is not written from a perfected standpoint(speaking of myself), but it's written from a place of desiring to be perfected, and wanting to see others built up and encouraged in our walk with The Lord. We can't build one another up if we spend much of our time attacking each other and devouring one another.
It really shouldn't be so, my brethren. Please don't assume this doesn't apply to YOU...God's Word always applies to us, if we'll pray and honestly seek The Lord about this He will open eyes to see and give grace to repent. It applies to me just as much as anyone else...are we serious enough about God to humble ourselves and pray, to examine ourselves against Scripture, to surrender our selves fully to obedience? If not, then our religion is in vain.
He is returning for a bride that is without spot or blemish...may we examine ourselves(II Corinthians 13:5) what fruit is our lives producing...(Matthew 7:20-22) please, take an honest look.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10670 is a reply to message #10643] |
Tue, 17 December 2013 19:34 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"One thing have I desired of The LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of The LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of The LORD, and to enquire in His temple." Psalms 27:4
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10684 is a reply to message #10670] |
Sun, 22 December 2013 17:06 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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The Importance of Believing The Bible to be God's Word...
It reveals the Love of God to us:
"Jesus loves me, this I know, for The Bible tells me so."
"For God so LOVED the world, that He GAVE His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16
The Bible is our standard, It is God's revelation of Himself to mankind, it is life changing to those whom will receive it as such. It is to be cherished, studied, and obeyed.
Thank You Father for loving us with a love that is so awesome; thank You Jesus for such a loving sacrifice of Yourself; thank You Holy Spirit for leading us to this great LOVE.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10685 is a reply to message #10684] |
Mon, 23 December 2013 18:25 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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The Importance of Having the Right Foundation...
"Therefore thus saith The LORD GOD: Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a precious corner [stone], a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste."Isaiah 28:16
"Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become the head of the corner: this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes?" Matt.21:42 (found in Psalms 118:22)
As Gary can attest to, being a builder, in Biblical times the cornerstone as used in the construction of buildings was extremely important. Everything was made of stone/rock and in order for the buildings to be sound they had to rest upon a sure, solid, stable foundation. The first stone placed in the corner of the first two walls at the bottom was called the "CORNERSTONE". It was vital that the first stone was square and level because all the other stones,( hundreds, if not thousands) were lined up off this first stone. As the masonry work continued upward a plumbline was used to keep the corner straight, thus resulting in a well built building.
In scripture we are admonished to be sure our foundation is secure, built upon the 'Rock' (Jesus, the chief Cornerstone Ephesians 2:20). Any mistake in our fundamental understanding of the gospel message and it's centering around Jesus Christ and His remdeeming work at Calvary, will results in cracks in the foundation of our spiritual buildings. JDS, false grace, works salvation, ect. gives a person a false sense of security that their 'spiritual house' is sound and safe against whatever may come against it. But we know from scripture (Matt. 7:20-27)that those people are decieved, because they didn't make Jesus the cornerstone of their spiritual building [life].
How important is our spiritual foundation? Very, it's a life and death decission.
I love the song "Cornerstone" by Hillsong...I love much more He of whom they sing, Jesus Christ our Cornerstone.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10686 is a reply to message #10685] |
Tue, 24 December 2013 17:10 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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The Importance of True Repentance...
In reading Luke's account of Peter denying Jesus and his realization of it, which brought bitter tears; I thought of Esau and how he was described in Hebrews with tears as well.
First let's look at Peter: He had just finished denying Jesus for the third time and the cock had just crowed...
"And The LORD turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of The LORD, how He had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny Me thrice.
And Peter went out, and wept bitterly." Luke 22:61-62
We know that Peter truely repented and found forgiveness as is witnessed by how he was used by God after receiving The Baptism of The Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
Now let's look at Esau: He sold his natural birthright to Jacob for a meal(Genesis 25), then later he was robbed of his blessing by his brother Jacob and his mother through their deceiving Isaac.(Genesis 27) Yet we also see in scripture that God said that He had loved Jacob and hated Esau (Romans 9:13) I'm not certain as to why Esau couldn't find repentance (some commentaries say that he was weeping over the lost blessings and betrayal and not repenting before God as seeking salvation???) but as best I understand it, he didn't.
"Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright. For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears." Hebrews 12:16-17
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10693 is a reply to message #10686] |
Mon, 30 December 2013 00:12 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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The Importance of Remaining Stedfast...
Definition of stedfast:
resolutely or dutifully firm and unwavering. committed, devoted. fixed and unchanging.
In Peter's second epistle (chapter 3) he is encouraging and admonishing believers to be diligent in guarding against allowing the mindset of the world [scoffers] to infiltrate our thoughts. The temptation is to fall into the day by day routine and start thinking as the world does...'today is as yesterday, and tomorow will be as today, all things remain status quo'. He reminds us to remember that a day with The Lord is as a thousand years, and a thousand years is as one day. We're told to remember that His longsuffering is salvation and we're to be ever mindful of living blamelessly and in peace, looking for Him at all times. God has promised Jesus' return from the OT Prophets to the NT Apostles, and by Jesus Himself...We're to live expectantly, sharing this Good News and diligently guarding against complacency.
"Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being lead away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness." II Peter 3:17
[Updated on: Mon, 30 December 2013 00:15]
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #10695 is a reply to message #10693] |
Wed, 01 January 2014 16:07 |
james
Messages: 2138
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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The Importance of Walking in LOVE...
We can't be effective witnesses for Jesus without godly love being present in us and it'll be evident by our love one for another. (John 13:35)
"Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
Forebearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also [do] ye.
And above all these things [put on] charity (love), which is the bond of perfectness.
And let the peace of God rule your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to The LORD.
And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, [do] all in the Name of The LORD Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him." Colossians 3:12-17
Jesus told us to love one another eleven different times in the NT and to forgive if we want forgiveness. If I've offended anyone by my words or attitude please contact me and let's talk it out. We know offenses will come but they shouldn't come from each other. I pray each of us will prayerfully seek The Lord and examine our hearts before Him and see if there be anything He would have us do differently in relating to others. I encourage anyone with any question of offense, either taken or given, let's humble ourselves and seek reconcilation with our brothers and sisters in Christ...We 'can' be right, and still be wrong.
As I've read concerning The Apostle John, in his latter years when gathering together with the saints, he would constantly remind them to "love one another". May we too be diligent to do the same.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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