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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #8805 is a reply to message #8804] |
Mon, 13 February 2012 16:38   |
 james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
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"O come, let us sing unto The LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.
Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto Him.
For The LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods.
O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before The LORD our maker.
For He is our God; and we are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand..." Psalms 95:1-3&6-7
“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 #8817 is a reply to message #8805] |
Tue, 21 February 2012 16:00 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
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Discernment...
I can't get out of my mind how SO many people with sincere hearts, that love The Lord, are being deceived today. Discernment comes in different forms or ways; there's the spiritual gift of discernment where The Holy Spirit gives discernment to the believer...obviously the best. Then there is discernment that comes from experience, both in the natural realm as well as spiritual matters(testing whatever against God's Word, having The Word in our hearts that gives us the discernment/wisdom/knowledge to know and recognize when someone is teaching or promoting a false doctrine or attempting to deceive.)
I talk with people who don't have enough grounding in The Word to be able to withstand the fiery darts and wiles of Satan when he is speaking through a man who professes to be a prophet or teacher of God's Word...especially those with headliner ministries that are on TV every day. I've had people become upset with me when I point out these charlatans, they repeatedly argue that they quote The Bible...perfect example: The guy I wrote about over on The Last Days thread, the 'Master Prophet' using II Chronicles 20:20b as proof text that those watching him should listen to him and believe what he said.("...believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.") Yes, that is the Word of God, but it MUST be taken in context as well as one must first establish that the person is in fact a Prophet...not one seeking to profit at the expense of the viewer.
Bible study is crucial, we aren't told in II Timothy 2:15 to STUDY to show ourselves approved unto God for no reason; it's the only way to 'rightly divide the word of truth'. Prayer is needful to discern the wiles of the enemy, especially praying in The Spirit which builds us up and makes us less likely to fall for subtle (and often rather obvious) deceptions being propagated upon believers today. But reading and doing word studies and praying takes time away from what we want to be doing, which is catering to the flesh, doing it our way. Instant gratification, "heal me NOW! I want prosperity/money NOW! I'm tired of just The Word, I want signs/wonders/miracles NOW!" and so off people go to Lakeland, Mobile, Toronto, Pensacola; and people like Todd Bentley, Peter Popoff, Benny Hinn, and 'Master Prophet' Benard Jordan, and hundreds more, get rich; and the deceived sheep get fleeced (to go along with often picking up demonic spirits and empty wallets). Once the spirit of deception has a person(sometimes just a small error or false teaching that is overlooked to promote 'harmony'), it becomes harder and harder for the deceived to discern righteously and soon they're totally blinded to what is SO obvious to those with discernment.
ENOUGH! It's gone on too long, it's time expose these deceivers and it's time to warn the sheep. Will they listen? That'll be their responsibility, at least they'll be warned.
“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 #8818 is a reply to message #8817] |
Tue, 21 February 2012 16:44 |
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william
Messages: 1463
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2Peter 1:1-3 plainly states that what we've been given comes through knowing Him.
He goes on to remind us that our theological education is a continual process and that our diligence in this pursuit will keep us from falling victim to the false teachers mentioned in the second chapter. Since our faith is based upon our knowledge of Him (all of His attributes, etc.) those who are not diligent in this area will be those whose faith will eventually become worthless. We should want to know Him just like Peter knew Him, in all of His transfigured glory!
Chapter 3 shows that there will be scoffers and doubters but the ones who have pursued this wonderful knowledge will be rewarded handsomely.
I recommend reading 2 Peter through again and after you finish go and read A. W. Tozer's THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE HOLY. http://www.heavendwellers.com/hdt_knowledge_of_the_holy.htm
You'll be glad you did!
William
[Updated on: Tue, 21 February 2012 16:45]
I want to believe!
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #8819 is a reply to message #8818] |
Sun, 26 February 2012 18:13 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
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Thank you, William. I'm not finished with the book (I am with II Peter<grin>) but I'm already glad. I would also encourage the reading of this book, too bad we can't make it mandatory reading for the Body of Christ everywhere, especially here in America.
There's nuggets of truth throughout the pages, one thing early on that jumped out at me and hit home was about idolatry and what it really is. He points out that just because Christians don't bow down before pagan statues we generally tell ourselves we aren't involved in idolatry; but, any concept we have of God that isn't a true reflection of who He really is causes us to have created a 'god' that in fact isn't really God, thus resulting in the false worship of something other than The One True GOD. The Holy Spirit can point out to each of us(Christians) areas in our lives where this may be true and lead us to correcting it. Imediately I see how so many have been lead astray with this false prosperity gospel, they have a false image of God in their hearts and minds, viewing Him as more of a 'sugar daddy' waiting to give them everything they 'want', who has revealed to His prophets and teachers(speaking here of the false teachers, preachers, prophets) a neat little formula of 'seed' sowing and harvesting whereby they get to live the life they think God has for them, sowing X amount of money and receiving 100 fold.(Of course we know that there is the Biblical principle of sowing and reaping, I'm speaking of the obivious misapplication for the wrong motive)
Here is a short quote that cuts right to the heart of the problem in modern Christianity.
"A right conception of God is basic not only to systematic theology but to practical Christian living as well. It is to worship (of God) what the foundation is to the temple; where it is inadequate or out of plumb the whole structure must sooner or later collapse. I believe there is scarcely an error in doctrine or a failure in applying Christian ethics that cannot be traced finally to imperfect and ignoble thoughts about God." A.W.Tozer
[Updated on: Mon, 27 February 2012 21:38]
“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 #8821 is a reply to message #8819] |
Wed, 29 February 2012 17:39 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
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"Acquaint thyself with God..."
The above quote is the summation of what A W Tozer believed to be the 'secret' that the church needed to rediscover to regain the power and witness that so long has been missing.
He goes on to say; "But the God we must see is not the utilitarian God who is having such a run of popularity today, whose chief claim to men's attention is His ability to bring them success in their various undertakings and who for that reason is being cajoled and flattered by everyone who wants a favor."
Tozer reminds the reader that there are conditions to be met in order to gain knowledge of Our Most Holy God...Humm, I remember another man of God who used to 'harp' on meeting the conditions required in order to walk in right relationship with God; now many find fault and criticize him, I guess this won't go over very well with them regardless of how true it is.
These conditions are NOT a formula where one goes step by step and suddenly all their problems are solved, but these are Biblical instructions laid out and repeatedly shown as requirements for a man/woman to walk in right relationship with Almighty God. First and foremost, WE MUST FORSAKE OUR SINS.("Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.") Second, total committal of our lives to Christ in faith. (there's that word again, F.A.I.T.H...<for further reference see, Deeper Life in The Spirit by Hobart Freeman>)This is where we keep His commandments and pick up our cross daily and follow Him, love Him and our fellow man. Third, Tozer points out that we must reckon ourselves dead unto sin and alive unto Christ, walking in The Spirit and trampling under foot the lust of the flesh. Fourth he writes we must set our affections on things above and detach ourselves this world and it's ways. And lastly, he says we should spend time in meditation upon the majesty of God, and might I add, worship.
I was encouraged greatly by this book, as well reminded of just how Great, Holy, and wonderful GOD is. It reinforces my faith and gives me strength, it causes me to reflect back on my relationship with God and ultimately encourages me to examine my heart to be sure my view of God isn't tainted by the corruption of modern religion. It also reminds me to be thankful for His Holy Word He has so graciously given us, the way we come to know Him, His attributes and character. Praise God.
“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 #8822 is a reply to message #8819] |
Wed, 29 February 2012 17:57 |
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william
Messages: 1463
Registered: January 2006 |
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| james wrote on Sun, 26 February 2012 12:13 |
Thank you, William. I'm not finished with the book (I am with II Peter<grin>) but I'm already glad. I would also encourage the reading of this book, too bad we can't make it mandatory reading for the Body of Christ everywhere, especially here in America.
There's nuggets of truth throughout the pages, one thing early on that jumped out at me and hit home was about idolatry and what it really is. He points out that just because Christians don't bow down before pagan statues we generally tell ourselves we aren't involved in idolatry; but, any concept we have of God that isn't a true reflection of who He really is causes us to have created a 'god' that in fact isn't really God, thus resulting in the false worship of something other than The One True GOD. The Holy Spirit can point out to each of us(Christians) areas in our lives where this may be true and lead us to correcting it. Imediately I see how so many have been lead astray with this false prosperity gospel, they have a false image of God in their hearts and minds, viewing Him as more of a 'sugar daddy' waiting to give them everything they 'want', who has revealed to His prophets and teachers(speaking here of the false teachers, preachers, prophets) a neat little formula of 'seed' sowing and harvesting whereby they get to live the life they think God has for them, sowing X amount of money and receiving 100 fold.(Of course we know that there is the Biblical principle of sowing and reaping, I'm speaking of the obivious misapplication for the wrong motive)
Here is a short quote that cuts right to the heart of the problem in modern Christianity.
"A right conception of God is basic not only to systematic theology but to practical Christian living as well. It is to worship (of God) what the foundation is to the temple; where it is inadequate or out of plumb the whole structure must sooner or later collapse. I believe there is scarcely an error in doctrine or a failure in applying Christian ethics that cannot be traced finally to imperfect and ignoble thoughts about God." A.W.Tozer
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It was the quote about idolatry essentially being boiled down to wrong thoughts about who He is, that really struck me. The heart of our religion is our conception of God (i.e. our theology) and if we conceive of Him as anything other than what He has revealed Himself to be then we have a god that isn't the True God.
Blessings,
William
I want to believe!
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #8825 is a reply to message #8822] |
Thu, 01 March 2012 22:30 |
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GWB
Messages: 708
Registered: March 2008
Location: Louisville, Ky area |
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Gulp.....
Knowing "basic" theology is not so basic anymore.
It is time for me to continue to review my valuable FA info and know in Whom I believe.
Tozer....isn't that the guy who drug a corpse out of a casket, slammed it into the corner of the room, and commanded it to come to life? The corpse slid down the wall. Tozer picked it up and slammed it again. It came to life.
Isn't Tozer the guy who heard a noise in the other room one night? Upon investigation, it was Satan sitting there. He blew out his candle and said, "Oh, it's only you."
It could have Wigglesworth, I can't recall. In any case, they knew in Whom they believed because they knew their theology.
Good thoughts, guys.
Shalom,
GWB
"Be still and know that I am God."
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #8831 is a reply to message #8825] |
Mon, 05 March 2012 16:56 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
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The story of the dead man being removed from a casket and 'slammed' up against the wall and coming back to life is attributed to Smith Wigglesworth I believe. It may be told in a book (which doesn't make it true), but I remember Kenneth Copeland telling it.(His version can be found on YouTube)
“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 #8832 is a reply to message #8831] |
Wed, 07 March 2012 19:18 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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The Knowledge of The LORD...
I was reading an article about how in today's modern world knowledge is on the increase. How daily people are discovering new things and the general population is so much smarter than just a couple generations ago. I believe there is a big difference between being 'smart' and being wise. Unregenerate mankind is filled with such pride in their knowledge and understanding of science and think they have ALL the answers concerning ALL things. And religious mankind is no better, putting words in God's mouth (false prophets/teachers), interpreting His Holy Word to consume upon their own lust(false prosperity gospel); professing to be called to lord over their fellow believers in their grand cathedrals(clergy).
BUT...The Knowledge of The LORD and understanding of Him is decreasing. Even in the 'church world' there is little knowledge of The LORD because if there was it would be reflected in the actions of those professing to be Christian.
God prophesied to Moses in Numbers 14:21 that the earth shall be filled with the glory of The Lord. And in Isaiah 6:3 the seraphim's are crying, "Holy, Holy, Holy, is The Lord of host: the whole earth is full of His glory." And in Isaiah 11:9b " for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of The Lord, as the waters cover the sea." And Habakkuk 2:14 says, "For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of The Lord..."
Oh for the day when God's Glory and the Knowledge of Him fills the whole earth...when all pride and arrogance is gone and His sheep are crying, HOLY, HOLY, HOLY.
“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 #8854 is a reply to message #8832] |
Sat, 17 March 2012 15:16 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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A Prayer Concerning Faith...A.W.Tozer
"Teach us to know that we cannot know, for the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Let faith support us where reason fails, and we shall think because we believe, not in order that we may believe."
“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 #8863 is a reply to message #8861] |
Mon, 19 March 2012 15:45 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Concerning Signs and Wonders...
"The unbelieving mind would not be convinced by any proof, and the worshiping heart needs none."
A.W.Tozer
And Yet...
"And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;
They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover."
Jesus Christ, Mark 16:17-18
"And they went forth, and preached everywhere, The LORD working with them, and confirming The Word with signs following." Mk. 16:20
“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 #8904 is a reply to message #8863] |
Mon, 02 April 2012 16:18 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Encouragement from Isaiah...
This IS God's Word, read it, believe it, stand on it.
"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." Is.41:10
"No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of The LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith The LORD." Is.54:17
"So shall they fear the name of The LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of The LORD shall lift up a standard against him." Is.59:19
“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 #8907 is a reply to message #8904] |
Wed, 11 April 2012 13:59 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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A Reminder...
"Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than themselves.
Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
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 upon 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.
Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is LORD, to the glory of God the Father.
Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence,
work out your own salvation with fear and trembling." Philippians 2:3-12
“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 #8908 is a reply to message #8907] |
Fri, 13 April 2012 13:55 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Affections of the heart...
"Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.
For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.
And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever." I John 2:15-17
“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 #8935 is a reply to message #6126] |
Sun, 22 April 2012 14:08 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
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| james wrote on Fri, 16 October 2009 09:43 |
Overcoming Discouragement...
I was reading in I Kings 18-19 where Elijah had gotten discouraged after he had experienced God's power and anointing when calling down fire from heaven to consume the burnt sacrifice on the altar. After the false prophets of Ba'al were killed Elijah went into the wilderness and stayed in a cave to get away from Jezebel(she didn't like him killing her prophets)
In verse 14 of I Kings 19, Elijah told The Lord; "...I have been very jealous for The Lord God of hosts: because the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away."
God encouraged Elijah by first reminding him that he wasn't alone; verse 18 of chapter 19..."Yet I have left me seven thousand in Israel, all the knees which have not bowed unto Ba'al, and every mouth which hath not kissed him." And second, by providing him with a helper, friend, and companion; Elisha.
I believe there's encouragement to be found in this account of what Elijah went through, for us today. It's easy to become discouraged, but we must remember that discouragement is a snare of the devil. We must focus on Jesus, His faithfulness in our past as well as His promise to keep us unto the end. Maybe things aren't happening like they did 25-30 years ago in our lives(maybe for some they are,if they are you should be giving God the glory and testifying about it to encourage others), maybe some of us feel like we're in that 'cave' in the wilderness...but even if that's true, remember, God sent an angel to feed Elijah. And he used that time to rest and strenghten himself for what lay ahead.
We, most of us, believe we're in the last days; are we using the time given us to prepare for what lies ahead? We can't become discouraged by what goes on around us, that only plays right into satans hand.
I believe The Lord would have us be encouraged, we're not alone, even though it may at times seem like it, there's an end-time army that God is preparing, who have not bowed their knees to the God of this world. The time is nearer than when we first believed, let us not become weary in well doing. He promised NEVER to leave us or forsake us...Remember our promise to Him? We said we'd never forsake Him, we promised to never let go of that plow handle, we said not our wills, but thine, O Lord. Stir up that which has been placed within us, it doesn't matter what's happening to the 'left' or the 'right', if we're dwelling in the secret place of The Most High...SURELY He shall deliver thee...
Remember the song we used to sing? 'Thou hast turn my mourning into dancing'.
Remember how it ends? 'To the end that my glory may sing praise to Thee, and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks unto Thee for ever.'
In the middle it says, 'Thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness'...This song was written by David and is found in Psalms 30:11-12
We can't be discouraged while singing unto The Lord, while praying in The Spirit, while giving thanks unto God, while sharing The Word of God with others, or while focusing on Jesus. What is the victory that overcometh the world? Even our faith.
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More on overcoming discouragement...
"Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy GOD is with thee whithersoever thou goest." Joshua 1:9
"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not evil, to give you an expected end." Jeremiah 29:11
Be encouraged, you're not alone...
“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 #8939 is a reply to message #8936] |
Sun, 22 April 2012 15:27 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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This testimony isn't to elevate me in any way, shape, or fashion but to show the way The Holy Spirit is working in peoples lives. This morning I was impressed to repost that word of encouragement from 2009 and He gave me the scripture from Joshua 1:9 to add at the end. I wrote a small commentary to go with it and then I believe The Lord had me delete it(the commentary). I just decided it was to encourage someone and that He would do the work and I was just to post the scripture.
An hour or so later as I tuned in to Brother Tom Hamilton he IS teaching on what God told Moses to say unto Joshua..."And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed." Deuteronomy 31:8 The whole point of what The Holy Spirit is ministering today through whatever vessel He is using is that we are to be encouraged, that we aren't alone, and that He will do that which He has promised.
The message today by Brother Tom is/was very editifying and encouraging...I'd highly recommend it.
[Updated on: Sun, 22 April 2012 15:44]
“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 #8941 is a reply to message #8939] |
Sun, 22 April 2012 16:00 |
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william
Messages: 1463
Registered: January 2006 |
Senior Member
Administrator |
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| james wrote on Sun, 22 April 2012 10:27 |
This testimony isn't to elevate me in any way, shape, or fashion but to show the way The Holy Spirit is working in peoples lives. This morning I was impressed to repost that word of encouragement from 2009 and He gave me the scripture from Jushua 1:9 to add at the end. I wrote a small commentary to go with it and then I believe The Lord had me delete it(the commentary). I just decided it was to encourage someone and that He would do the work and I was just to post the scripture.
An hour or so later as I tuned in to Brother Tom Hamilton he IS teaching on what God told Moses to say unto Joshua..."And the LORD, he it is that doth go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed." Deuteronomy 31:8 The whole point of what The Holy Spirit is ministering today through whatever vessel He is using is that we are to be encouraged, that we aren't alone, and that He will do that which He has promised.
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I understand the humility part, it goes without saying BUT my point is that I'm excited whenever I see someone using the gifts that the Lord gives to them and while you probably don't need the encouragement --I love giving it anyway! <grin>
Blessings,
William
I want to believe!
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #8973 is a reply to message #8941] |
Tue, 01 May 2012 19:36 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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This post just sunk in with me...duh?
We ALL need encouragement, thanks. It was encouraging to me to know that I was on the same page with what The Holy Spirit was directing others to share in different parts of the country.
In hindsight, I think of the old Abbot and Costelo(I think) joke about 'who's on first'...The Lord was encouraging Joshua, The Holy Spirit was encouraging me as I read the scriptures, I was encouraging others by posting it, and you were encouraging me for encouraging others... 
“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 #8978 is a reply to message #8973] |
Sat, 19 May 2012 16:12 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"But exhort one another daily..."
This is a reminder and encouragement first to myself and then to anyone whom The Lord would have it for...
Hebrews 3:6,12-14
"But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.
Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God.
But exhort one another daily, while it is called Today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end."
Satan is going about as a roaring lion, seeking souls to devour. The Word tells us that the just will live by faith...that without faith it's impossible to please Him. Doubt and unbelief is sin...what's not of faith is sin.
I think that's why the 'faith message' is so important, everything in our Christian walk works by faith and if the foundation isn't founded on faith(the rock of Christ Jesus) then all built will eventually fall when the test of time comes.
The encouragement today is this...don't grow weary, the race isn't over until the finish line is crossed; it is important how we started and the foundation that was laid 30+ years ago, but it's vital that we be diligent to hold firm and stedfast our confidence unto the end. Guarding 24/7 our hearts against unbelief creeping in. It's gardening time of year, the anology that comes to mind is like our mind is a garden and we must keep it free from 'weeds' and anything that would choke out what has been planted there. The quality of what is produced is based on how we keep it free of 'weeds' (negative thoughts, doubts, and the cares of this life.) Nurturing 'it' by the daily watering and feeding only that which nutures it.(The Word of God, praying in The Spirit, abiding in Him, ect)
God is full of mercy and He is patient to remind us and call us back to Him when we stray in any area of our lives, the time is drawing to a close and Jesus wants His Bride ready. Today if you hear His voice, hearden not your hearts, repent and seek His face. God LOVES you(and me), that love is manifest in His calling us to repentance in areas of our lives where He sees sin/doubt/unbelief. Thank God, He doesn't discard us as we so often do each other when we disagree, He lovingly corrects and restores... GLORY to GOD, thank You Jesus. May the day come soon when all men WILL know we're His disciples, by our love one for another.
Like I said, this was first to me...
“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 #8988 is a reply to message #8978] |
Fri, 08 June 2012 12:21 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"Let every thing that hath breath praise The LORD. Praise ye The LORD."
Psalms 150:6
“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 #8992 is a reply to message #8988] |
Fri, 15 June 2012 15:58 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Some thoughts on the wilderness...
We often speak of our 'wilderness experience' in relation to not being involved in a book of Acts type local, visible assembly and how we miss what we once shared in. As I was thinking about it I was reminded that Biblically speaking there was always a purpose for the wilderness/desert. Jesus was lead there by The Spirit to be tempted/tested. (Matt. 4:1) John the Baptist was in the wilderness being prepared. (Luke 3:2) In the OT Elijah spent time in the wilderness. ( I Kings 19:4) These are positive examples where those sent into the wilderness were obedient to their calling and used the time there to fast and pray, learn God's will for the ministry set before them; and get ready.
Now we go to the example of Israel (Deut. 29:5) whom God kept there for 40 years due to disobedience and rebellion. They didn't redeem their time there, they rather continued in their unbelief and rebellion; complaining, murmuring, constantly forgetting what God did for them on a daily basis. Sinning at every turn, going after idols, refusing to listen to the only voice that could deliver them from their exile. And even though the opportunity was there for all of them(millions of people), only Joshua and Caleb (and those who were born later) were allow to enter into the land of promise that God had promised.
So I have to ask myself, what is my additude concerning the 'wilderness' I find myself in? Am I yeilding myself to the working of The Holy Spirit, seeking God's direct and wisdom while here? Am I following in the example of Jesus, John the Baptist, Elijah and other men of God, or is the testimony of my journey more like that of Israel?
Something to think about next time we start squirming around and wanting to get off the cross we're called to crucify our flesh on daily. It's got to be more than just a confession of being an overcomer, there must be actions that line up with God's Word...
“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 #8999 is a reply to message #8992] |
Tue, 19 June 2012 15:50 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"Amazing Love! How can it be
That Thou, my God,
Shouldst die for me?"
Charles Wesley
“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 #9015 is a reply to message #8999] |
Fri, 29 June 2012 19:14 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
[Updated on: Sat, 30 June 2012 13:00]
“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 #9019 is a reply to message #9015] |
Wed, 04 July 2012 20:11 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love." Galatians 5:6
“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 #9028 is a reply to message #9020] |
Fri, 13 July 2012 13:57 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us,
by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of The Holy Ghost." Titus 3:5
"What can wash away my sin?
Nothing but the Blood of Jesus;
What can make me whole again?
Nothing but the Blood of Jesus."
"Then sings my soul,
my Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art,
How great Thou art."
Have you taken time today, my friends, to thank Him, to praise Him, to think upon the Mercy and Grace of God? He inhabits the praises of His people, He is worthy of ALL our praise.
Praise YOU Jesus! Thank You Father! May Your name be exalted in all the earth.
“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 #9031 is a reply to message #9028] |
Tue, 17 July 2012 20:30 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Weathering life's storms...
First let me say, I haven't perfected what I'm about to write, but I'm growing and learning in the ways of God.(as we all are) Also, it's not a 'negative confession' to say storms will come, The Word promises them.
In Matt.7:24-27 and Luke 6:48&49 Jesus speaks of the wise man and the foolish man, one builds on the rock and the other builds on sand. It doesn't say that because the wise man was a Christian nothing would ever test his faith, in fact scripture teaches us that it's through many trials and tribulations that we enter into The Kingdom of God. James 1:2-5&12 says this,"when" a man is tried. Isaiah 43:2 says "when" it happens, He is with us. So it's a given that storms will come to both the righteous as well as the unrighteous, it's our preparation before hand that will determine wheather or not we are judged wise or foolish.
So what is the key to becoming a wise man? Verse 24 of Matthew chapter 7; "Therefore whosoever heareth these saying of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him to a wise man..." Ok, one might ask, just what are these 'sayings'? Well Jesus had just finished speaking to them on a whole list of 'sayings' that's known as the B'Additudes, that'd be a good place to start. He said one would be blessed in fact if they would apply these 'saying' into actions.
Jesus said: Be poor in spirit; hunger and thirst for righteousness; be merciful; be pure of heart; be meek and humble; be a peacemaker; turn the other cheek; love God with ALL your heart; love your enemies; love your neighbor; forgive others; give to them that ask of you; pray in secret; fast unto The Lord; don't judge critically; take no thought for tomorrow; bear fruits unto righteousness; don't swear; be holy as He is Holy; lay up treasures in heaven; let your light shine before men...
Yes, the storms of life will surely come, it's our choice as to how we'll weather them; if we've been wise and obedient the winds and waves won't move us because Jesus is The Rock we've build upon, as He has instructed us to do.
“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 #9036 is a reply to message #9031] |
Sat, 21 July 2012 21:26 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Fight or Flight...
Throughout scripture we're instructed to "fight" the good fight, that we're in a spiritual warfare, that we're to put on armour, to war in the spirit. Yet at the same time we're instructed to "flee" certain things as well. We must know what to fight and what to flee from.
Charles Spurgeon said this:
"The devil I am to resist and he will flee from me; but the lust of the flesh, I must flee, or they will surely overcome me."
The first example of fleeing that comes to mind is Joseph in Genesis 39:7-12 when Joseph's master's wife tried to seduce him, Joseph fled. In the NT we're told to flee fornication in I Corinthians 6:18 and in chapter 10 verse 14 we're told to flee idolatry. II Timothy 2:22 says flee youthful lust.
But there's times and situations where we're instructed to fight, we're to put on the whole armour of God daily, Ephesians 6:11. James tells us to resist the devil and he will "flee" from us, James 4:7. There's times to take the offensive, that's what the sword (Word of God) is for. We're told that the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds. But we're to take the shield of faith to use to deflect firey darts of Satan, more defensive.
We as followers of Christ must learn to discern what we're up against in whatever situation, whether or not it's a battle with the devil and his demons or if it's a fleshly lust. The demonic we fight, take authority over in Jesus's Name, cast out in Jesus's Name; lust of the flesh must be fled from and the flesh crucified. I heard this saying many years ago and it certainly is true; "You can't cast out the flesh, and you sure can't crucify the devil."
How many times do Christians spend all their energy and time seeking deliverance and rebuking Satan when the problem is the flesh isn't dead and keep rising up in pride, lust, anger, lying, glutony, uncleaness, self-righteousness, and various other fleshy sins. Yes, a demon can be behind this as well, we know there are spirits of lust, pride, lying, religious spirits, ect.ect.; but often people haven't willing dealt with their flesh to bring it into subjection to the will of GOD, the daily summiting to the Cross. If the sin/problem doesn't go away with deliverance then there's a good chance the problem/sin lies with the uncrucified flesh(self-will, self-centered, self-absorbed, me, me, me...FLESH.) The Word tells us to walk in the Spirit and we won't fulfill the lust of the Flesh.
We're in a battle daily, we're to be diligent 24/7, yet there's times where we're to exercise wisdom and flee a sitution...why stand and fight when it's not something we can defeat through that means, especially when there's a door of escape waiting...Joseph left his garment in her hand and 'hit the door', ran, fled, turned his back on the situation and removed any opportunity for to sin against his master or his God.
“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 #9046 is a reply to message #9036] |
Fri, 10 August 2012 14:19 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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FOCUS...
"The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be SINGLE, thy whole body shall be full of light." Matthew 6:22
I've been going over the Sermon on the Mount and also listening to a 40 message(yep, I said 40, smile) teaching on the Sermon on the Mount by Brother Tom Hamilton; you can listen to his messages online at http://www.sermon.net/SCA
and this scripture kept ministering to me, especially as it speaks of our eyes being 'single'. I believe that to mean focused, looking only to Jesus, The Kingdom, the ways of God, ect.
There's a saying that says 'we are what we eat', there's a lot of truth in that from a physical standpoint; but this statement by Jesus is 100% THE Truth. And Jesus goes on to explain in the next couple verses what happens when one's eyes are evil, they're filled with darkness...He also says Christians can't serve two masters, we'll be divided, holding to one and despising the other.
I see daily the importance of what we focus on, if Christians expect to reflect the light of Christ in our lives we've got to learn (if one hasn't already, probably preaching to the choir here) to guard what we allow ourselves to 'see'.
There's good light and there's 'bad' light; for me I am seeing the light of this world growing dimmer and dimmer; as The Light of God grows brighter and brighter in my life, causing my whole body to be full of Light.
“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 #9055 is a reply to message #9046] |
Wed, 22 August 2012 21:21 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works." Matthew 16:27
"Behold He comes! Riding on the clouds!
Shining like the sun! At the trumpet call lift your voice!
It's the year of jubile! Out of Zion's hill salvation comes!"
Lyrics from song:
"Days of Elijah" (Behold He Comes)
Don't anyone grow weary from looking up, He's coming, He promised!
"...but faith which worketh by love."
Have you showed God's LOVE to someone today? It's not too late...Matthew 22:39. "...Thou shalt love thy neighbor AS THYSELF."
“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 #9056 is a reply to message #9055] |
Fri, 24 August 2012 00:17 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Psalms of encouragement...
Ps. 62
V1 "Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from him cometh my salvation."
V2 "He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defense; I shall not be greatly moved."
V7 "In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God."
V8 "Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah."
“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 #9063 is a reply to message #9056] |
Tue, 28 August 2012 12:49 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.
He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto eternal life." John 12:24-25
I remember reading these scriptures as a new Christian and they always made me wonder how much I really understood them; I see now that I didn't, we(i) don't understand the deeper/hidden truths until we start walking in and applying them...I understand much more so today; I look forward to tomorrow, as I learn to walk in obedience today.
"To be like Jesus, to be like Jesus...all I ask, is to be like You, LORD."
“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 #9069 is a reply to message #9063] |
Tue, 11 September 2012 12:57 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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How to avoid enticing or beguiling words, or be lead astray...
"As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus The Lord, so walk ye in Him:
Rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.
Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
For in Him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily."
Colossians 2:6-9
“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 #9074 is a reply to message #9069] |
Wed, 19 September 2012 13:16 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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FOCUS...
As the end of time on this earth as we know it draws nearer,(or should I say, as the 'beginning' draws nearer, because that's what followers of Christ are looking to; the beginning of God's eternal Kingdom.) the distractions of this world mount. Even the things we consider necessary and mundane can become a snare if we aren't ever mindful of where our focus should be, on Jesus and His Kingdom. It makes absolutely no sense to non-believers for a man to base his life around faith in a BOOK, promises written thousands of yeara ago...but Oh if only they could come to know the author of that Book, then they'd 'see', it's not what is seen with the natural eye that is of true value; but what is seen with the spiritual 'eye' of faith that is of eternal priceless value.
"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 #9075 is a reply to message #9074] |
Wed, 19 September 2012 14:26 |
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william
Messages: 1463
Registered: January 2006 |
Senior Member
Administrator |
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So true.
It is especially relevant this morning as I'm reflecting on 1Cor 12-14. Most of us focus on the gifts mentioned in this passage (and that's not a bad thing!) but in the light of your post, which highlights the fact that we all should be focused upon Jesus and the manifestation of His kingdom, my understanding is being broadened to consider how those gifts relate to the ultimate healing of the body of Christ.
The second part of 1Cor12 forces us to put those wonderful gifts into the context of the larger picture--the body of Christ.
We all know that the gifts are given for the edification of the body. (Eph 4:11f) And I think most of us can agree that we need edification more than ever but we struggle when we try to figure out how our present circumstances will ever fit into the ideal picture we see presented for us in Scripture.
We are probably not that much different than the Corinthians. They were given a map showing both the purpose, and the pathway to Church "Nirvana." Whether or not they actually realized the fruit of Paul's instruction, I'm not sure, but I do know that we, like them, have that map spread before us. At some point (probably around the 13 chapter!) we are going to get it right.
Blessings,
William
[Updated on: Wed, 19 September 2012 14:32]
I want to believe!
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #9076 is a reply to message #9075] |
Wed, 19 September 2012 20:15 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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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."
“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 #9080 is a reply to message #9076] |
Mon, 24 September 2012 18:53 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." II Timothy 3:16-17
Therefore...
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." II Timothy 2:15
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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