"If I will that he tarries till I come, what is that to you. You follow me." [John 21:22]When Jesus revealed about his end, Peter asked ' what about him' [referring to John] Jesus' answer was 'If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You follow me.' Peter was told not to be concerned about God's will for others.
Often we tend to compare ourselves with others,whether to rationalize our own level of devotion to Christ or to question God's justice. Jesus tells us also the same thing: 'You follow me'
My concern should be, am I doing God's will and am I following Jesus the way He wants me to follow Him.
God has a plan and purpose for each one of us Each one is different in nature. But all of us are expected to come to the knowledge of the love of Christ and reach out to conform to His character. Perfect in holiness.That is the expected standard.Perfection comes to each one at different levels in different areas. Like a building, we are all under construction. We ought to just follow His leading.That is God's will for you and me.
Prayer is essential to attain this.As We too should pray as David prayed: [Psalms.143:10] 'Teach me to do your will, for you are God. Your spirit is good. Lead me into the land of righteousness.'
Doing God's will or desiring and asking God to show His will, will establish a divine relationship.Jesus said' For whoever will do the will of my father which is in heaven, the same is my my brother, sister and mother'[Mt.12:50]
Christ is the perfect example of doing God's will: Just before the betrayal He prayed,'O my father if this cup may not pass away from me except I drink it, Thy will be done'.What a surrender of his own will to the will of his father's!
I prayed: Lord I pray like you. I do not know what the out come of all these things that are taking place. It is scary. I step out depending on you.I know acting according to your will , will bring peace and joy. Your wisdom is the best for me. There is no one else greater than you Lord. You are able to see me through in any situation.Your wisdom is the best for me.
I decided and wrote the letter as the Holy spirit prompted me to write and went on reading God's word.
Doing God's will tends to spiritual knowledge. " If any man will do his will he shall know the doctrine whether it be of God or whether I speak of myself' Jesus said
Doing God's will should not be with eye service as pleasing men. It should as servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart.'[ Eph 6:6]
When we take one step to do His will, He works in us to make us the kind of people who will please Him. He equips us to do the kind of work that will please Him.
Doing God's will should be the rule of everyday life. James 4:15 says 'For that you ought to say If the Lord will , we shall live and do this or that.'
It gave me much hope and joy when I read 2nd John2:17' The world and it's desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives for ever.
A prayer rose from me: Lord help me to desire and always do what ever is your will for me.
The Lord gave me this on the 28th December 2008 at5AM. As I surrendered my will to the Lord and wrote the letter that the Lord prompted me to write, a joy that I am pleasing the Lord filled me. I praise God for it.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Friday, December 19, 2008
The Birhday Boy Is missing
People are preparing for a grand Christmas celebration. Though buying of gifts, organizing parties and dinners, the time and energy spent, and the expense involved, wear them out, they some how look forward to the excitement that is awaiting them. The thought of feasting and dancing with friends spur them up despite the difficulties they face today.
I am reminded of a story I heard: It was a fabulous birthday party. It was well organized . Any one could see that much money and time had been devoted to make it so grand. The choice invitees were from the rich and famous class. Compliments were being given lavishly to the hostess. Greetings and laughter thrilled the every one.
Suddenly one of the guests asked, 'Where is the birthday boy? I saw him as a baby. I can't believe he is one year old today.'
'Oh we left him with the baby sitter. Can we have a good time if he is here?'
'Quite true.' Her friend agreed. " You did a wise thing." Both of them emptied their wine glasses and went to get a stronger drink, little realizing that the baby's birthday was the reason for that grand party!.
Our Christmas celebrations should not be like this party. Let us have Jesus in the midst of our celebrations. It will prevent us from including things that He does not approve of in our parties.
It is a good opportunity to introduce Jesus Christ to our friends.
Let us remember to include Jesus, who is the reason for the season in all that we do during these festive days this year.
I am reminded of a story I heard: It was a fabulous birthday party. It was well organized . Any one could see that much money and time had been devoted to make it so grand. The choice invitees were from the rich and famous class. Compliments were being given lavishly to the hostess. Greetings and laughter thrilled the every one.
Suddenly one of the guests asked, 'Where is the birthday boy? I saw him as a baby. I can't believe he is one year old today.'
'Oh we left him with the baby sitter. Can we have a good time if he is here?'
'Quite true.' Her friend agreed. " You did a wise thing." Both of them emptied their wine glasses and went to get a stronger drink, little realizing that the baby's birthday was the reason for that grand party!.
Our Christmas celebrations should not be like this party. Let us have Jesus in the midst of our celebrations. It will prevent us from including things that He does not approve of in our parties.
It is a good opportunity to introduce Jesus Christ to our friends.
Let us remember to include Jesus, who is the reason for the season in all that we do during these festive days this year.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Instruction For The Youth
I read Proverbs 7th Chapter this morning. I thought of the Young men and women of today. Most of them go with the flow of the culture, where sexual sins are accepted. It says, there are no absolutes. Every one does whatever pleases oneself. It is sad that they fail to realize how they lose their purity of life and eternal life by following this kind of culture.
The word of God says, " Keep my words and store up my commands and you will live" [Pro.7:1]
Some of the verses reminded me of our youth: " I saw among the youth a young men who lacked wisdom.[Pro.7:7] Then the author talks of how a woman seduces this young man ." all at once he followed her like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer stepping into the noose till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare, little knowing it will cost his life."[Pro.7:22-23] How sad!
A person who has no purpose in life is simple minded like this young man. Easily swayed. An empty life with out God, is unstable and vulnerable to many temptations.
There are definite steps one can take to avoid sexual sins:
(1) Guard your mind. Don't read books, look at pictures or movies, or encourage fantasies that stimulate wrong desires.
(2) Keep away from settings and friends that tempt you to sin.
(3)Don't think only of the moment; focus on the future. Remember, today's thrill may lead to tomorrow's ruin.
Paul gave a sound advise to young Timothy." flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart."2nd Tim. 2:22] He clearly says, what to avoid and whom to associate with and what to seek after earnestly.
I was reminded how in my young days I tried to keep myself. 'These are not those days', is the argument of the youth of today. They forget, it is the same devil of those days that is lureing them and it is the same unchanging Holy God who is warning them, and it is He who is able to keep them. The eternity is the same for people of any age!
I was sad to think of the way the devil has blinded the eyes of our children. It is high time we pray for their eyes to be opened to reality and truth.
The word of God says, " Keep my words and store up my commands and you will live" [Pro.7:1]
Some of the verses reminded me of our youth: " I saw among the youth a young men who lacked wisdom.[Pro.7:7] Then the author talks of how a woman seduces this young man ." all at once he followed her like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer stepping into the noose till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare, little knowing it will cost his life."[Pro.7:22-23] How sad!
A person who has no purpose in life is simple minded like this young man. Easily swayed. An empty life with out God, is unstable and vulnerable to many temptations.
There are definite steps one can take to avoid sexual sins:
(1) Guard your mind. Don't read books, look at pictures or movies, or encourage fantasies that stimulate wrong desires.
(2) Keep away from settings and friends that tempt you to sin.
(3)Don't think only of the moment; focus on the future. Remember, today's thrill may lead to tomorrow's ruin.
Paul gave a sound advise to young Timothy." flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart."2nd Tim. 2:22] He clearly says, what to avoid and whom to associate with and what to seek after earnestly.
I was reminded how in my young days I tried to keep myself. 'These are not those days', is the argument of the youth of today. They forget, it is the same devil of those days that is lureing them and it is the same unchanging Holy God who is warning them, and it is He who is able to keep them. The eternity is the same for people of any age!
I was sad to think of the way the devil has blinded the eyes of our children. It is high time we pray for their eyes to be opened to reality and truth.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Celebration Is Good
" Mordecai recorded these events and sent letters to all the Jews, -----near and far to have them celebrate the 14th and 15th days of the month of Adar, the time when the Jews got their relief from their enemies, when their sorrows were turned into joy and their moaning into a day of celebration. He wrote them to observe the days of feasting and joy and giving presents of food to one another and gifts to the poor.' [Esther9:20-22]
Thus the celebration of Purim stared among the Jews. Any one who has read the book of Esther will know how Haman plotted to exterminate the Jews and how through the courageous intervention of Esther, they were saved and the enemy was destroyed. It is a fascinating story.
The deliverance was so wonderful that the Jews had a great celebration. Mordecai, [Esther's uncle who was encouraging Esther] wanted the people to celebrate this event annually. Even today it is being celebrated. Mordecai put down the reason for the celebration, so that the people will celebrate it meaningfully. He knew that people tend to have short memories when it comes to God's faithfulness! Then the celebrations become hollow and meaningless and the blessing is lost.
The Christmas celebration has so much in common to Purim . Today the whole world is celebrating Christmas, to remember the birth of our savior Jesus Christ.[ Although the date 25th of December is not exact, it is a historical fact the Jesus was born during that time] Some do not even know the reason for the celebrations. Christ is sometimes not even in the scene. The Santa, the rain deer, the Christmas tree, gifts, food, cakes, lights and decorations are given much prominence that the spiritual significance is completely lost.
Yet the fact remains that, it is the birth of Jesus Christ, who is able to set us free from sin and it's consequences, free us from all burdens and give us eternal life and joy.
The story is recorded in the gospels by Christ's disciples. It is good for us to read it to refresh our memories of this wonderful birth of our Lord and savior. If we celebrate this Christmas meaningfully, then Christ will be born in our hearts, so that the joy of Christmas will continue through out our life even to eternity.
Like Mordecai, let us remind every one the reason for our celebration!
Thus the celebration of Purim stared among the Jews. Any one who has read the book of Esther will know how Haman plotted to exterminate the Jews and how through the courageous intervention of Esther, they were saved and the enemy was destroyed. It is a fascinating story.
The deliverance was so wonderful that the Jews had a great celebration. Mordecai, [Esther's uncle who was encouraging Esther] wanted the people to celebrate this event annually. Even today it is being celebrated. Mordecai put down the reason for the celebration, so that the people will celebrate it meaningfully. He knew that people tend to have short memories when it comes to God's faithfulness! Then the celebrations become hollow and meaningless and the blessing is lost.
The Christmas celebration has so much in common to Purim . Today the whole world is celebrating Christmas, to remember the birth of our savior Jesus Christ.[ Although the date 25th of December is not exact, it is a historical fact the Jesus was born during that time] Some do not even know the reason for the celebrations. Christ is sometimes not even in the scene. The Santa, the rain deer, the Christmas tree, gifts, food, cakes, lights and decorations are given much prominence that the spiritual significance is completely lost.
Yet the fact remains that, it is the birth of Jesus Christ, who is able to set us free from sin and it's consequences, free us from all burdens and give us eternal life and joy.
The story is recorded in the gospels by Christ's disciples. It is good for us to read it to refresh our memories of this wonderful birth of our Lord and savior. If we celebrate this Christmas meaningfully, then Christ will be born in our hearts, so that the joy of Christmas will continue through out our life even to eternity.
Like Mordecai, let us remind every one the reason for our celebration!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Grace, The Source Of power
"Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus"[2nd Timothy2:1]
It is sad that there are so many weak Christians in the body of Christ today . They are offended over something or other and hurt. what we need is the grace of Jesus Christ.
Grace is such a beautiful word. It means unmerited favor. It also means being able to bear up or go through situations which are normally unbearable and difficult. Grace comes only from God.
What is the grace that is in Jesus Christ? God's love towards humanity made Christ Jesus, give up Heaven, come down to Earth as a man, take all the punishment of the sinful humans upon Himself and die the cruel death on the cross, just to bring salvation to us. By this He reconciled the sinful humanity to the Holy God. All this He did for us, not because we deserved it. We were yet sinners, unwilling to to live the way the holy God's laws said. He need not have done that. That love and willingness to suffer for no wrong of His, just to set us free from the clutches of the enemy, who made us sin against God and others , is Christ's grace toward us.
He had to humble Himself. He was selfless.
It is because of the grace that He showed to you and me, today we are saved . We have the assurance that we will spend eternity with this savior in heaven. It is freely granted to any and every one who comes to Him believing in his sacrifice of grace. God tells us, 'I will remember your sins no more,' when we repent and ask forgiveness. It is because of what Christ Jesus did to reconcile us to the holy God!
To be strong in the grace of Christ Jesus, we should be able to show the same grace to those who wrong us, offend or hurt us. Forgive them unconditionally just as Christ forgave. It calls for humility and unselfishness. Forgiveness and grace say to the offender,' I forgive you with out demanding back anything.' Hurt says, 'you hurt me I am going to somehow punish you for it.'
Being unable to bear up or forgive the wrongs of others makes us weak. It gives the enemy a chance to enter into our lives.[2nd Cor.2:10-11] The result will be hardheartedness leading to sin and deception.
Showing the same grace that Christ Jesus showed us will make us soft righteous and pleasing to God which will destroy the power of the enemy over us.
There is strength in Forgiveness and grace.
Hate, unforgiveness and revenge are the enemy's strongholds. Kindness, love and forgiveness will bring them down. God reconciled us to him through Jesus Christ and has given us the ministry of reconciliation. [2nd Cor.5:18] It is essential to have the grace of Jesus Christ to do this ministry.
It is not easy to develop this nature by ourselves. God has given us the holy Spirit to help us out. By the Holy spirit God's love is shed into our hearts. When we are filled with God's love we can love and show mecy and grace even to our enemies.
' Lord help us to be like Jesus, full of grace to forgive, to set others free and for us to be free.' I pray.
It is sad that there are so many weak Christians in the body of Christ today . They are offended over something or other and hurt. what we need is the grace of Jesus Christ.
Grace is such a beautiful word. It means unmerited favor. It also means being able to bear up or go through situations which are normally unbearable and difficult. Grace comes only from God.
What is the grace that is in Jesus Christ? God's love towards humanity made Christ Jesus, give up Heaven, come down to Earth as a man, take all the punishment of the sinful humans upon Himself and die the cruel death on the cross, just to bring salvation to us. By this He reconciled the sinful humanity to the Holy God. All this He did for us, not because we deserved it. We were yet sinners, unwilling to to live the way the holy God's laws said. He need not have done that. That love and willingness to suffer for no wrong of His, just to set us free from the clutches of the enemy, who made us sin against God and others , is Christ's grace toward us.
He had to humble Himself. He was selfless.
It is because of the grace that He showed to you and me, today we are saved . We have the assurance that we will spend eternity with this savior in heaven. It is freely granted to any and every one who comes to Him believing in his sacrifice of grace. God tells us, 'I will remember your sins no more,' when we repent and ask forgiveness. It is because of what Christ Jesus did to reconcile us to the holy God!
To be strong in the grace of Christ Jesus, we should be able to show the same grace to those who wrong us, offend or hurt us. Forgive them unconditionally just as Christ forgave. It calls for humility and unselfishness. Forgiveness and grace say to the offender,' I forgive you with out demanding back anything.' Hurt says, 'you hurt me I am going to somehow punish you for it.'
Being unable to bear up or forgive the wrongs of others makes us weak. It gives the enemy a chance to enter into our lives.[2nd Cor.2:10-11] The result will be hardheartedness leading to sin and deception.
Showing the same grace that Christ Jesus showed us will make us soft righteous and pleasing to God which will destroy the power of the enemy over us.
There is strength in Forgiveness and grace.
Hate, unforgiveness and revenge are the enemy's strongholds. Kindness, love and forgiveness will bring them down. God reconciled us to him through Jesus Christ and has given us the ministry of reconciliation. [2nd Cor.5:18] It is essential to have the grace of Jesus Christ to do this ministry.
It is not easy to develop this nature by ourselves. God has given us the holy Spirit to help us out. By the Holy spirit God's love is shed into our hearts. When we are filled with God's love we can love and show mecy and grace even to our enemies.
' Lord help us to be like Jesus, full of grace to forgive, to set others free and for us to be free.' I pray.
Are You Strong In The Lord?
" Finally, be Strong in the Lord and in His mighty power" [ Ephesians.6:10 NkJ] This is a sound advise to us, the Christians, to keep the enemy, the devil, away from us.
Paul begins the verse with the word, ' finally' after teaching about how the children, the parents , the employers and the employees should behave to be pleasing to the Lord by obeying God's commands to them. [Eph.6:1-9] Being diligent to obey what ever the Lord says, is an essential requirement to have victory over the enemy.
There are times we feel distort and weak spiritually, mentally, emotionally and physically. It is just the right time for the enemy to attack and defeat us. I had such a moment yesterday. I went to the Lord and He strengthened me with His word.
He said,' Be strong in the lord and in the power of His might' I searched the scriptures for more 'food' to strengthen me. The following scriptures helped me much:
'Be strong therefore and let not your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.' [11chron.15:1] There are so many scriptures like this to strengthen us.
I meditated on our God's power and strength too. Psalms 62:11 says, ' God has spoken and twice have I heard that power belongs unto the Lord.'
I came to the conclusion, when I have such an a mighty God as my friend and savior, I can face anything with boldness. I was happy to read what Paul wrote to the Ephesians, 'I pray, that out of His glorious riches, He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being. What a prayer! I said, ' Amen!', to it.
I wonder if you know this God who strengthens us when we are weak? Have you experienced the Holy Spirit who revives and refreshes us when we feel dry. If you have that experience, I praise God with you.
If not , I wish to tell you that, you can have it just by asking God sincerely for it, in the name of Jesus. He will gladly lead you into it.
Paul begins the verse with the word, ' finally' after teaching about how the children, the parents , the employers and the employees should behave to be pleasing to the Lord by obeying God's commands to them. [Eph.6:1-9] Being diligent to obey what ever the Lord says, is an essential requirement to have victory over the enemy.
There are times we feel distort and weak spiritually, mentally, emotionally and physically. It is just the right time for the enemy to attack and defeat us. I had such a moment yesterday. I went to the Lord and He strengthened me with His word.
He said,' Be strong in the lord and in the power of His might' I searched the scriptures for more 'food' to strengthen me. The following scriptures helped me much:
'Be strong therefore and let not your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.' [11chron.15:1] There are so many scriptures like this to strengthen us.
I meditated on our God's power and strength too. Psalms 62:11 says, ' God has spoken and twice have I heard that power belongs unto the Lord.'
I came to the conclusion, when I have such an a mighty God as my friend and savior, I can face anything with boldness. I was happy to read what Paul wrote to the Ephesians, 'I pray, that out of His glorious riches, He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being. What a prayer! I said, ' Amen!', to it.
I wonder if you know this God who strengthens us when we are weak? Have you experienced the Holy Spirit who revives and refreshes us when we feel dry. If you have that experience, I praise God with you.
If not , I wish to tell you that, you can have it just by asking God sincerely for it, in the name of Jesus. He will gladly lead you into it.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Who Is Your Friend?
Despite the many avenues to keep oneself occupied and not feel lonely, the humans crave for companionship and friendship.We were not created to be loners. The internet, the television and the movies cannot supply the affection, compassion, or the human touch that people naturally long for. We need friends. The word of God gives us guide lines as to with whom to associate.
King David, whom many would have befriended said, 'I am a friend to all who fear you and all who follow your precepts.'[Psalms.119:63] This gives us a sound guide as to the choice of friends.
A friend is some one to whom you run for counsel or comfort. In times of adversity or prosperity a true friend is with you. Hours of leisure and entertainment become enjoyable when shared with friends. No wonder David desired to have some one who honored God, His words and laws as his friends. He did not want his friends to be of the world . Such friends would lead him away from God. He cherished his relationship with God.
Paul writing to the Corinthians said, 'I have written in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people.'He did not mean the people of this world, who are immoral or greedy, and swindlers or idolaters. In that case you will have to leave the world. He adds,' But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with any one who calls himself a BROTHER but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler, with such a man do not even eat.'[1stCor.5:9-11] What strong words of advice!
Here Paul makes it clear that we should not disassociate with unbelievers. How are we to show Christ and His light to them and bring them to Christ if we keep away from them? We are to distance our selves from those who claim to be Christians yet indulge in sins which are clearly forbidden in the scripture and rationalize their actions. Such are deceived. By rationalizing they not only harm others for whom Christ died but also dim the image of God in themselves.
Associating with such is forbidden because it defiles us and may reduce the desire we have for holiness. Even the church where they are is in peril: Their conduct will distort the picture of Christ that the Church is expected to present to the world. It the duty of the Church leaders to correct or deal with them in love Our duty is not to have friendly fellowship with them but to pray for them in love.
May the Lord help us to be prudent in the choice of our associates and friends.
King David, whom many would have befriended said, 'I am a friend to all who fear you and all who follow your precepts.'[Psalms.119:63] This gives us a sound guide as to the choice of friends.
A friend is some one to whom you run for counsel or comfort. In times of adversity or prosperity a true friend is with you. Hours of leisure and entertainment become enjoyable when shared with friends. No wonder David desired to have some one who honored God, His words and laws as his friends. He did not want his friends to be of the world . Such friends would lead him away from God. He cherished his relationship with God.
Paul writing to the Corinthians said, 'I have written in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people.'He did not mean the people of this world, who are immoral or greedy, and swindlers or idolaters. In that case you will have to leave the world. He adds,' But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with any one who calls himself a BROTHER but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler, with such a man do not even eat.'[1stCor.5:9-11] What strong words of advice!
Here Paul makes it clear that we should not disassociate with unbelievers. How are we to show Christ and His light to them and bring them to Christ if we keep away from them? We are to distance our selves from those who claim to be Christians yet indulge in sins which are clearly forbidden in the scripture and rationalize their actions. Such are deceived. By rationalizing they not only harm others for whom Christ died but also dim the image of God in themselves.
Associating with such is forbidden because it defiles us and may reduce the desire we have for holiness. Even the church where they are is in peril: Their conduct will distort the picture of Christ that the Church is expected to present to the world. It the duty of the Church leaders to correct or deal with them in love Our duty is not to have friendly fellowship with them but to pray for them in love.
May the Lord help us to be prudent in the choice of our associates and friends.
The Rescue Of The Godly
" The Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment." [2nd Peter2:9 NKV]
Many do not want to talk of judgment or punishment. How can a loving God punish, they say.
Others who try to lead a life pleasing to God, believe that there is chastisement and later a day of judgment, fear how they will fare on that day.
When the word of God says something, it is always absolutely true.
Apostle Peter quotes some instances from the past to prove this.: " If God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment;
If He did not spare the ancient world, when He brought the floods on the ungodly people, but protected Noah, a preacher of righteousness, and seven others;
If He condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah by burning them to ashes, and made them an example to what is going to happen to the ungodly; and if He rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men- [for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard]
- If this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment. This is specially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the sinful nature and despise authority." [2nd Peter2;10
NKV]
It is good for us to live in such a way to escape the judgment of God and to trust God to make a way of escape from all that comes upon the unrighteous ones.
Our God is holy, good and righteous. He is merciful and just. So Let us trust Him and run the race with his guidance.
Many do not want to talk of judgment or punishment. How can a loving God punish, they say.
Others who try to lead a life pleasing to God, believe that there is chastisement and later a day of judgment, fear how they will fare on that day.
When the word of God says something, it is always absolutely true.
Apostle Peter quotes some instances from the past to prove this.: " If God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them into gloomy dungeons to be held for judgment;
If He did not spare the ancient world, when He brought the floods on the ungodly people, but protected Noah, a preacher of righteousness, and seven others;
If He condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah by burning them to ashes, and made them an example to what is going to happen to the ungodly; and if He rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men- [for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard]
- If this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment. This is specially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the sinful nature and despise authority." [2nd Peter2;10
NKV]
It is good for us to live in such a way to escape the judgment of God and to trust God to make a way of escape from all that comes upon the unrighteous ones.
Our God is holy, good and righteous. He is merciful and just. So Let us trust Him and run the race with his guidance.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Hearing Ears
What do you hear? What do you want to hear? How do you hear? What do you do with what you hear. These were some of the questions that came to my mind this morning.
One could want to hear only positive things. Others some gossip. No one wants to hear anything bad or negative.
There are anxious and eager hearers and uninterested careless hearers. Some want to hear the opinion of people, others love to hear from God. What we hear could do us good if it transforms us and makes us happy or it could ruin us, if it creates hatred or panic.
God wants us to have hearing ears to hear from Him. I meditated on some of the bible verses on the spiritual hearing of the believers.
'Blessed is the man that hears me and watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors'{ Pro.8:34] It is a daily duty of a believer to listen eagerly to what the Lord is saying. If I do it I will be blessed.
The Lord may want to say things to correct me some times. 'The ear that hears the reproof of life abides among the wise.' [Pro.15:31] Only an unwise person will shun the disapproval and the reprove of the all wise loving God our father. He wishes you and me to be holy and true like Him . so in his love He shows our faults. I lke to say, he who listens to a life giving rebuke will be at home with the wise.
We hear God's voice when we go to church. 'Keep your foot when you go to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil'
[Ecc.5:1]
The best attitude is, to be able to say, 'Lord I have heard thy speech and was afraid: O Lord revive thy work in the midst of the years. In the midst of the years make known; In wrath remember mercy. [Hab.3:2] This will be our cry if we have true hearing ears.
The right kind of hearing will bring a godly fear, a spiritual quickening, a revival, a revelation and a longing to seek God's mercy.
James says, 'Wherefore, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak slow to wrath.' [James 1:9] It is sad but true some prefer to hear things that pleases them. They gather around teachers, what their etching ears want to hear, not sound doctrine. Thus they turn away from the truth and turn aside to myths.{2nd. Tim.4:3&4] No wonder there there is so much of falling away from the true churches and so much of diluted doctrines that there is no distinction between the people of God and the pagans in their behavior.
What the believers are expected to do is, '---having heard the word, keep it and bring forth fruit with patience.' ]Luke8:15] 'These are they which are sown on the good ground; such as hear the word and receive it and bring forth fruit, some thirty fold, some sixty, some hundred.'[Mark4:20]
Lord help us be not only hears but doers of your word. Help us hear the right way and benefit by it, is my prayer for you, me and all other God's children
One could want to hear only positive things. Others some gossip. No one wants to hear anything bad or negative.
There are anxious and eager hearers and uninterested careless hearers. Some want to hear the opinion of people, others love to hear from God. What we hear could do us good if it transforms us and makes us happy or it could ruin us, if it creates hatred or panic.
God wants us to have hearing ears to hear from Him. I meditated on some of the bible verses on the spiritual hearing of the believers.
'Blessed is the man that hears me and watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors'{ Pro.8:34] It is a daily duty of a believer to listen eagerly to what the Lord is saying. If I do it I will be blessed.
The Lord may want to say things to correct me some times. 'The ear that hears the reproof of life abides among the wise.' [Pro.15:31] Only an unwise person will shun the disapproval and the reprove of the all wise loving God our father. He wishes you and me to be holy and true like Him . so in his love He shows our faults. I lke to say, he who listens to a life giving rebuke will be at home with the wise.
We hear God's voice when we go to church. 'Keep your foot when you go to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil'
[Ecc.5:1]
The best attitude is, to be able to say, 'Lord I have heard thy speech and was afraid: O Lord revive thy work in the midst of the years. In the midst of the years make known; In wrath remember mercy. [Hab.3:2] This will be our cry if we have true hearing ears.
The right kind of hearing will bring a godly fear, a spiritual quickening, a revival, a revelation and a longing to seek God's mercy.
James says, 'Wherefore, my beloved brothers, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak slow to wrath.' [James 1:9] It is sad but true some prefer to hear things that pleases them. They gather around teachers, what their etching ears want to hear, not sound doctrine. Thus they turn away from the truth and turn aside to myths.{2nd. Tim.4:3&4] No wonder there there is so much of falling away from the true churches and so much of diluted doctrines that there is no distinction between the people of God and the pagans in their behavior.
What the believers are expected to do is, '---having heard the word, keep it and bring forth fruit with patience.' ]Luke8:15] 'These are they which are sown on the good ground; such as hear the word and receive it and bring forth fruit, some thirty fold, some sixty, some hundred.'[Mark4:20]
Lord help us be not only hears but doers of your word. Help us hear the right way and benefit by it, is my prayer for you, me and all other God's children
Sunday, November 16, 2008
God of Peace and the Peace of God
The situations we face in today's world, brings disquiet, fear and turmoil within us. It is nothing but natural if the God of peace is not in us.
I wondered how to keep the peace within us . The Lord reminded me of a verse from the Bible.
" Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God, and the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."[Ph.4:6]
If we just give the matter that worried us to God in prayer and in faith thank Him for what He is going to do about it, He will take the responsibility of guarding our hearts and minds. Then we will be free from panic or worry even in very bad circumstances. We ourselves will wonder at the God given peace. It is a peace that passes all understanding and all misunderstandings. It comes by handing the matter into God's hand , leaving it with Him and praising Him in faith that He knows to handle it .
It is the God of peace or His presence with us that gives us this kind of peace.
The bible also tells us how to keep the God of peace with us: " Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."[Ph.4:8]
If the God of peace is with us, we will be in peace with God and others, have peace in every situation at all times and promote and spread peace.
God of peace help us to have you always with us, is my prayer.
I wondered how to keep the peace within us . The Lord reminded me of a verse from the Bible.
" Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God, and the peace of God which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus."[Ph.4:6]
If we just give the matter that worried us to God in prayer and in faith thank Him for what He is going to do about it, He will take the responsibility of guarding our hearts and minds. Then we will be free from panic or worry even in very bad circumstances. We ourselves will wonder at the God given peace. It is a peace that passes all understanding and all misunderstandings. It comes by handing the matter into God's hand , leaving it with Him and praising Him in faith that He knows to handle it .
It is the God of peace or His presence with us that gives us this kind of peace.
The bible also tells us how to keep the God of peace with us: " Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable -if anything is excellent or praiseworthy, think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you."[Ph.4:8]
If the God of peace is with us, we will be in peace with God and others, have peace in every situation at all times and promote and spread peace.
God of peace help us to have you always with us, is my prayer.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
The Blessed Seniors!
The other day we visited a seniors' home. We 'entertained ' them by singing. We prayed that the gospel songs would touch their hearts, as they were nearer to the grave than us, because of age, [though death could come to anyone at any time] and they should be ready to meet the Lord.
All of them were in their wheel chairs. Some enjoyed the singing, some joined in, some were absorbed in their own thoughts and others were indifferent. My thought was: What a blessed thing to know the Lord before we become incapable of thinking properly! Yet it is never too late for the mercy of God to meet anyone and bring them to salvation. The Holy spirit will do the work if we pray for them.
The very next day I read of two great seniors, who were part of Jesus' infancy. Luke 2:25-27 tells of the righteous and devout seniors, Simeon and Anna. Simeon was waiting for the consolation of Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ.' He must have spent time in the scriptures and in prayer, to get such a revelation!
Moved by the Holy Spirit he went into the temple courts and waited for Mary , Joseph and the baby to arrive. I am amazed at the way the Holy Spirit led him! When they came to dedicate the baby, Simon took baby Jesus in his arms and and praised God and said, 'Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, now dismiss your servant in peace, for my eyes have seen the salvation which you have prepared in the sight of all people. A light, for revelation to the gentiles and for glory to your people Israel. Then he prophesied and said to Mary, 'This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel and a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed and a sword will pierce your own soul too'. [Luke2:33-35] What an amazing accurate prophesy!
Simeon died , the way he desired and prayed, but we have seen his prophesy being fulfilled!
The other Senior was Anna, a widow of 84 years. She had lived with her husband for only 7 years! but served the Lord for 77 years! She was called a prophetess as she was close to God: With fasting and prayers she attended upon the sanctuary. She also spoke of the baby to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. Unlike now, they respected these elders and their words. Their words were recorded for us to read even today.
Surely God would have accepted their sincere prayers. As they blessed the baby with their whole heart, they would have been blessed by God.
What a contrast to some of the seniors of today!
I would like to be a contented praying , useful and blessed senior.
What about you, when you become old.? Prepare yourself now by getting close to God now, then your old age will be a blessing to others.
All of them were in their wheel chairs. Some enjoyed the singing, some joined in, some were absorbed in their own thoughts and others were indifferent. My thought was: What a blessed thing to know the Lord before we become incapable of thinking properly! Yet it is never too late for the mercy of God to meet anyone and bring them to salvation. The Holy spirit will do the work if we pray for them.
The very next day I read of two great seniors, who were part of Jesus' infancy. Luke 2:25-27 tells of the righteous and devout seniors, Simeon and Anna. Simeon was waiting for the consolation of Israel. The Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ.' He must have spent time in the scriptures and in prayer, to get such a revelation!
Moved by the Holy Spirit he went into the temple courts and waited for Mary , Joseph and the baby to arrive. I am amazed at the way the Holy Spirit led him! When they came to dedicate the baby, Simon took baby Jesus in his arms and and praised God and said, 'Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, now dismiss your servant in peace, for my eyes have seen the salvation which you have prepared in the sight of all people. A light, for revelation to the gentiles and for glory to your people Israel. Then he prophesied and said to Mary, 'This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel and a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed and a sword will pierce your own soul too'. [Luke2:33-35] What an amazing accurate prophesy!
Simeon died , the way he desired and prayed, but we have seen his prophesy being fulfilled!
The other Senior was Anna, a widow of 84 years. She had lived with her husband for only 7 years! but served the Lord for 77 years! She was called a prophetess as she was close to God: With fasting and prayers she attended upon the sanctuary. She also spoke of the baby to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem. Unlike now, they respected these elders and their words. Their words were recorded for us to read even today.
Surely God would have accepted their sincere prayers. As they blessed the baby with their whole heart, they would have been blessed by God.
What a contrast to some of the seniors of today!
I would like to be a contented praying , useful and blessed senior.
What about you, when you become old.? Prepare yourself now by getting close to God now, then your old age will be a blessing to others.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Life Purpose -Donation
Donation is the third duty and purpose of our life. Donation does not only mean giving out money or stuff to the needy with out expecting any return .
It has a deeper spiritual meaning: God has given us so many things. It is He who has given us this very life. Bible says, ' either you give or you lose your life.' " who ever wants to save his life shall lose it but whoever loses his life for me, shall find it". [Mat.16:25] We have a natural tendency for self preservation and feel reluctant to go all out serving the Lord. But if we really love God we will not hesitate to even to lay down our lives for the sake of the Gospel.'It is more blessed to give than to receive" are words of our Lord Jesus himself. IPeter4:10]
God has promised His power and authority to us [ Luke10:19] and has also given us a commission." Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead and cast out devils. Freely you have received, freely give"[Mat10:8] This is a donation.
The talents and gifts we have are from God. We are expected to Donate them to him. We received them to serve God and others with it.
When I meditated on the above, my heart raised a payer to the Lord, who loved us so much: Lord, everything we have are given by you freely. Help us to donate them to you, to serve others in your name without grudging.
I also sang the little chorus. I meant what I sang:
All that I have,
All that I am
All I shall ever be,
Cannot repay the love that I owe,
I surrender to Thee.
I wish you too will sing it along with me!
It has a deeper spiritual meaning: God has given us so many things. It is He who has given us this very life. Bible says, ' either you give or you lose your life.' " who ever wants to save his life shall lose it but whoever loses his life for me, shall find it". [Mat.16:25] We have a natural tendency for self preservation and feel reluctant to go all out serving the Lord. But if we really love God we will not hesitate to even to lay down our lives for the sake of the Gospel.'It is more blessed to give than to receive" are words of our Lord Jesus himself. IPeter4:10]
God has promised His power and authority to us [ Luke10:19] and has also given us a commission." Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead and cast out devils. Freely you have received, freely give"[Mat10:8] This is a donation.
The talents and gifts we have are from God. We are expected to Donate them to him. We received them to serve God and others with it.
When I meditated on the above, my heart raised a payer to the Lord, who loved us so much: Lord, everything we have are given by you freely. Help us to donate them to you, to serve others in your name without grudging.
I also sang the little chorus. I meant what I sang:
All that I have,
All that I am
All I shall ever be,
Cannot repay the love that I owe,
I surrender to Thee.
I wish you too will sing it along with me!
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Life's Purpose--2
" Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is- His good, pleasing and perfect will."[Romans 12:2]
Knowing that we have to aspire, is not enough for a Christian. A formation has to take place. Formation denotes, a process of being made.
As we grow in our life in Christ, a transformation has to happen . We are to be formed according to the divine plan, to be like Jesus . This plan that God has for each of us is nothing but the best. To follow the example of Jesus, is the best way to conform to God's plan for us, as He was the only perfect one led by the Holy spirit.
" I have given you an example and you should do as I have done to you" [John13:5] said Jesus to his disciples after He washed their feet. It is an example of humility and servant hood. Such a character should be formed in us.
No doubt it is easily said than done. It is not easy to be holy in every thing we do in this present society we live in. We will be ridiculed and avoided as unsociable prigs. Fearing this sometimes makes us compromise with the world. This hinders our being like Jesus.
When Jesus asks us to do something, He enables us and supplies His grace in abundance. It is the holy Spirit that helps us in this process. " We all with an open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the spirit of the Lord."[2nd Cor.3:18]
Apostle Peter says the same thing in the following manner. "As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance, but as He who has called is holy, you be holy in all manner of conversation" [1stPeter1:14,15] [Conversation means our daily dealings.]
This is the transformation that has to take place in each one of us. How ever ugly our nature may be, God is able to make it holy and beautiful like His if we submit to Him. He will renew our minds and make us know His perfect will.
May the holy Spirit transform us to be like Jesus.
Knowing that we have to aspire, is not enough for a Christian. A formation has to take place. Formation denotes, a process of being made.
As we grow in our life in Christ, a transformation has to happen . We are to be formed according to the divine plan, to be like Jesus . This plan that God has for each of us is nothing but the best. To follow the example of Jesus, is the best way to conform to God's plan for us, as He was the only perfect one led by the Holy spirit.
" I have given you an example and you should do as I have done to you" [John13:5] said Jesus to his disciples after He washed their feet. It is an example of humility and servant hood. Such a character should be formed in us.
No doubt it is easily said than done. It is not easy to be holy in every thing we do in this present society we live in. We will be ridiculed and avoided as unsociable prigs. Fearing this sometimes makes us compromise with the world. This hinders our being like Jesus.
When Jesus asks us to do something, He enables us and supplies His grace in abundance. It is the holy Spirit that helps us in this process. " We all with an open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the spirit of the Lord."[2nd Cor.3:18]
Apostle Peter says the same thing in the following manner. "As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance, but as He who has called is holy, you be holy in all manner of conversation" [1stPeter1:14,15] [Conversation means our daily dealings.]
This is the transformation that has to take place in each one of us. How ever ugly our nature may be, God is able to make it holy and beautiful like His if we submit to Him. He will renew our minds and make us know His perfect will.
May the holy Spirit transform us to be like Jesus.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Life's Purpose-1
Life is meaningless without a purpose. For some the sole purpose in life is to make money. Some are duty bound. There are others for whom seeking pleasure wherever and whenever possible is all that they look for in life.
It was refreshing for me to learn this morning that for a christian there are three purposes for their life, based on the word of God: Appropriation, formation and donation. All these three have to take place in a Christian's life. It may take place at the same time in different areas of one's life or at different times.
Aspiration is a time of taking in. We should aspire to receive salvation." I will take the cup of salvation and call upon the name of the lord." says the psalmist . [Ps. 116:13]
Instruction is another thing one has to aspire for. " Take hold of instruction; Let her not go; Keep her, for she is your life."[Pr.4:13]
We ought to aspire for divine strength too. With out God's strength we just cannot go on in this life is an experiential truth. Our Lord offers it to us freely:
" Let him take hold of my strength that he may make peace with me and he shall make peace with me."[Is.27:5]
We have to be aware of the opportunities God gives us to be useful in His kingdom. The parable Jesus said about stewardship in Luke 19 tells of the Lord who gave his servants money and told them " Occupy till I come." He is telling the same thing to us, as He bestows gifts to us. We ought to seize that opportunity and gain the resulting blessing for now and eternity.
The greatest of all aspiration is for the water of life ." The Spirit and the bride say come and let him that hear say come and whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely." [Rev.22:17]
When we have such Godly aspirations, I am sure Our Lord will help us to fulfill this part of our purpose in our spiritual growth.
I hope you are blessed by this as I am. May th Lord help us to have the right kind of purpose for our life.
It was refreshing for me to learn this morning that for a christian there are three purposes for their life, based on the word of God: Appropriation, formation and donation. All these three have to take place in a Christian's life. It may take place at the same time in different areas of one's life or at different times.
Aspiration is a time of taking in. We should aspire to receive salvation." I will take the cup of salvation and call upon the name of the lord." says the psalmist . [Ps. 116:13]
Instruction is another thing one has to aspire for. " Take hold of instruction; Let her not go; Keep her, for she is your life."[Pr.4:13]
We ought to aspire for divine strength too. With out God's strength we just cannot go on in this life is an experiential truth. Our Lord offers it to us freely:
" Let him take hold of my strength that he may make peace with me and he shall make peace with me."[Is.27:5]
We have to be aware of the opportunities God gives us to be useful in His kingdom. The parable Jesus said about stewardship in Luke 19 tells of the Lord who gave his servants money and told them " Occupy till I come." He is telling the same thing to us, as He bestows gifts to us. We ought to seize that opportunity and gain the resulting blessing for now and eternity.
The greatest of all aspiration is for the water of life ." The Spirit and the bride say come and let him that hear say come and whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely." [Rev.22:17]
When we have such Godly aspirations, I am sure Our Lord will help us to fulfill this part of our purpose in our spiritual growth.
I hope you are blessed by this as I am. May th Lord help us to have the right kind of purpose for our life.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Family Gettogether Is Essential
"For this reason, I kneel before the Father from whom His whole family in heaven and earth derives it's name, that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power, through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith.
And I pray that you being rooted and established in love, may have power together with all saints to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ and to know that this love surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. [Ep.3:14-19]
The above is, St. Paul's much needed prayer for the church family.
Much attention is given to the family these days: Having a family name is considered important. Family roots are being searched. Family time and values are emphasized. Family reunions are celebrated.
With out being a member of a family a family, one will be a loner. It is considered a tragedy if some one is disowned by the family or gets away from his family
As Christians we belong to the family of God. It is such a huge and great family where God is our loving heavenly father! We have the same family name. Our father in heaven promises His love and power to each and every member of this great family.
We know that it is the' word' of our father that created the heaven and the earth. His love made provision for our sins to be pardoned. His everlasting love wants to us to be saved and have eternal security. Such a great father desires to impart his love and power to us His children. That could be attained only by coming together in unity to worship, comprehend his love and grow in it. All who wish to receive this blessing should remain in the family.
It is sad to note that many Christians wish to be loners for various reasons. Those who isolate themselves from the family become losers, devoid of God's love and power.
It is not easy to get along with every one in the church family. It is good to remember that all are in the process of growing up and are liable to falter or hurt. That is why Paul says "God is able to do more than what we ask or think according to His power working in us." [Eph3: 20] He is able to accomplish anything. We should desire to be in His family at any cost so that God's power could work in and through us. His power gives us the ability to be together.
Many members of our great family of God need our prayers and encouragement. Many are going through persecutions for following Christ. We should be in a position to pray for the power of the enemy to be paralysed and deliverance come to our brothers and sisters.
It is time for us to meet with our family to grow in the love of our father and to use His power to bring answers to the seeking , suffering world.
And I pray that you being rooted and established in love, may have power together with all saints to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ and to know that this love surpasses knowledge, that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. [Ep.3:14-19]
The above is, St. Paul's much needed prayer for the church family.
Much attention is given to the family these days: Having a family name is considered important. Family roots are being searched. Family time and values are emphasized. Family reunions are celebrated.
With out being a member of a family a family, one will be a loner. It is considered a tragedy if some one is disowned by the family or gets away from his family
As Christians we belong to the family of God. It is such a huge and great family where God is our loving heavenly father! We have the same family name. Our father in heaven promises His love and power to each and every member of this great family.
We know that it is the' word' of our father that created the heaven and the earth. His love made provision for our sins to be pardoned. His everlasting love wants to us to be saved and have eternal security. Such a great father desires to impart his love and power to us His children. That could be attained only by coming together in unity to worship, comprehend his love and grow in it. All who wish to receive this blessing should remain in the family.
It is sad to note that many Christians wish to be loners for various reasons. Those who isolate themselves from the family become losers, devoid of God's love and power.
It is not easy to get along with every one in the church family. It is good to remember that all are in the process of growing up and are liable to falter or hurt. That is why Paul says "God is able to do more than what we ask or think according to His power working in us." [Eph3: 20] He is able to accomplish anything. We should desire to be in His family at any cost so that God's power could work in and through us. His power gives us the ability to be together.
Many members of our great family of God need our prayers and encouragement. Many are going through persecutions for following Christ. We should be in a position to pray for the power of the enemy to be paralysed and deliverance come to our brothers and sisters.
It is time for us to meet with our family to grow in the love of our father and to use His power to bring answers to the seeking , suffering world.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Whom are we serving?
I was taken aback at the remark of a sweet, successful, young lady, after the service one Sunday. 'Do we have to leave our jobs, homes and be in the church all the time? She suddenly asked. This is a girl who always says positive encouraging things! I was troubled why she said so.
The sermon was on serving the Lord. It was evident that she did not understand what is expected of her. So many like her are disillusioned about serving God.
All are expected to serve God. Some are called like the apostles to forsake all and follow Christ. "If any man serve me let him follow me and where I am there shall also my servant be: If any man serve me him will my father honor" [John12:26] What a great reward is promised to the one who serves Christ by following Him! He will be with Christ in eternity and the father will honor him!
How do we serve Christ? We do have our jobs studies and daily tasks to attend to. We are entitled to rest and recreation as well, one may say.
As we go through the day, how, where and with what attitude we engage in our daily activities, show whom we serve. Are we serving ourselves, the devil or Christ? It is a good habit to take a stock of our day, at the end of each day.
Serving self, is being selfish and self centered in our motives, in the things that we do. Engaging ourselves in talking and planning things that are not pleasing to God, is serving the devil. No one can please two masters, is a well known saying.
We may be doing a secular job. If we do it well, as doing a service" unto the Lord and not unto men", [Eph, 6:7] it become a service to God. It will bring glory to God.
Bearing other peoples' burdens, [Galationns6:2] helping them and praying for them are counted as service to God. "As we have therefore opportunities, let us do good unto all men"[Gal.6:10]
It is not the lack of time, but the lack of willingness that prevents people from serving the right master.
When we start doing every thing as though we are doing it to the Lord, He will bring in more opportunities to be a blessing, giving joy to others. There by we will introduce Jesus to them.
Serving the Lord becomes easy and joyful, if 'Self' goes out of us.
May God help us to serve our master the right way, selflessly through out the day.
The sermon was on serving the Lord. It was evident that she did not understand what is expected of her. So many like her are disillusioned about serving God.
All are expected to serve God. Some are called like the apostles to forsake all and follow Christ. "If any man serve me let him follow me and where I am there shall also my servant be: If any man serve me him will my father honor" [John12:26] What a great reward is promised to the one who serves Christ by following Him! He will be with Christ in eternity and the father will honor him!
How do we serve Christ? We do have our jobs studies and daily tasks to attend to. We are entitled to rest and recreation as well, one may say.
As we go through the day, how, where and with what attitude we engage in our daily activities, show whom we serve. Are we serving ourselves, the devil or Christ? It is a good habit to take a stock of our day, at the end of each day.
Serving self, is being selfish and self centered in our motives, in the things that we do. Engaging ourselves in talking and planning things that are not pleasing to God, is serving the devil. No one can please two masters, is a well known saying.
We may be doing a secular job. If we do it well, as doing a service" unto the Lord and not unto men", [Eph, 6:7] it become a service to God. It will bring glory to God.
Bearing other peoples' burdens, [Galationns6:2] helping them and praying for them are counted as service to God. "As we have therefore opportunities, let us do good unto all men"[Gal.6:10]
It is not the lack of time, but the lack of willingness that prevents people from serving the right master.
When we start doing every thing as though we are doing it to the Lord, He will bring in more opportunities to be a blessing, giving joy to others. There by we will introduce Jesus to them.
Serving the Lord becomes easy and joyful, if 'Self' goes out of us.
May God help us to serve our master the right way, selflessly through out the day.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Thanks Giving.
Most of you would have noticed that I had not posted anything for a few months. The reason is not that there was no inspiration. The Lord never stops talking to any one who seek Him diligently! It was the lack of facility that hindered my writing.
I was away in Sri lanka. It is an island, torn by civil war for many years. Yet there is no peace over there. People are living in uncertainty, fear and danger. Those who trust in the Lord are being over shadowed under His wings. I thank you for praying for me. The Lord was good to me. his protection and provision was with me. He blessed me and made me a blessing to others as well.
Yesterday was Thanks giving day in Canada. It is a good practice to be thankful to parents , friends and all who are good to us, not only on a particular day, but every day!
The word of God says , " Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." [1 Th.5:18]. We ought to give thanks to God at all times, in every thing. It is not easy to do. A contented heart will be able to praise God even when things are bad. There will be no room for complaining, murmuring or fault finding in a heart that is contented .
May God give all of us such a heart, I pray.
I was away in Sri lanka. It is an island, torn by civil war for many years. Yet there is no peace over there. People are living in uncertainty, fear and danger. Those who trust in the Lord are being over shadowed under His wings. I thank you for praying for me. The Lord was good to me. his protection and provision was with me. He blessed me and made me a blessing to others as well.
Yesterday was Thanks giving day in Canada. It is a good practice to be thankful to parents , friends and all who are good to us, not only on a particular day, but every day!
The word of God says , " Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." [1 Th.5:18]. We ought to give thanks to God at all times, in every thing. It is not easy to do. A contented heart will be able to praise God even when things are bad. There will be no room for complaining, murmuring or fault finding in a heart that is contented .
May God give all of us such a heart, I pray.
Monday, September 22, 2008
The LORD Is My Shepherd
Everyone knows the 23rd Psalm. When some thing that we know becomes a revelation, then we profit from it.
Today the Lord reminded me that He is my shepherd and He is leading me in such away that I lack nothing, spiritually, materially, physically and emotionally. He knows what is best for me to nourish me. So He leads me to that kind of green pastures and still waters that are good for me. I know for sure that He will guide me till the end of my journey.
I understood that the Lord being my shepherd, engineers the circumstances in my life. The people who are around me are placed by the Lord. They are just instruments used by the shepherd to strengthen, to correct and build my character. If I don't feel comfortable with any these, there is no point in complaining or grumbling or questioning about them.
It is true , some times we become dissatisfied with our circumstances or the around us who seem to annoy or hurt us. Then we tend to blame others or ourselves or question God
Jesus is the good shepherd[John10:11]; He is the great shepherd.[Heb.13:20]; He is the chief shepherd.[IstPeter5:4]
For Him to be MY shepherd, I should humble myself to be like a sheep to follow Him where ever He leads me. I can trust Him to lead me in the paths of righteousness alone.
He is the only one who will be with me in death, where no one else can come with me. Isn't it a wonderful thought of comfort and confidence?
Now my prayer is: Lord help me to follow you like a sheep that follows it's shepherd. I understand that to rebel against your leading by complaining, questioning or being hurt, is actually rebelling against my own interests. Help me remember it, when I tend to go my own way or find fault with others or get hurt with the people you have placed in my way.
Today the Lord reminded me that He is my shepherd and He is leading me in such away that I lack nothing, spiritually, materially, physically and emotionally. He knows what is best for me to nourish me. So He leads me to that kind of green pastures and still waters that are good for me. I know for sure that He will guide me till the end of my journey.
I understood that the Lord being my shepherd, engineers the circumstances in my life. The people who are around me are placed by the Lord. They are just instruments used by the shepherd to strengthen, to correct and build my character. If I don't feel comfortable with any these, there is no point in complaining or grumbling or questioning about them.
It is true , some times we become dissatisfied with our circumstances or the around us who seem to annoy or hurt us. Then we tend to blame others or ourselves or question God
Jesus is the good shepherd[John10:11]; He is the great shepherd.[Heb.13:20]; He is the chief shepherd.[IstPeter5:4]
For Him to be MY shepherd, I should humble myself to be like a sheep to follow Him where ever He leads me. I can trust Him to lead me in the paths of righteousness alone.
He is the only one who will be with me in death, where no one else can come with me. Isn't it a wonderful thought of comfort and confidence?
Now my prayer is: Lord help me to follow you like a sheep that follows it's shepherd. I understand that to rebel against your leading by complaining, questioning or being hurt, is actually rebelling against my own interests. Help me remember it, when I tend to go my own way or find fault with others or get hurt with the people you have placed in my way.
Monday, July 7, 2008
There Is No Mission Impossible With God.
The way the Holy Spirit speaks and encourages, when we are down, is amazing!
I was praying about a certain thing which seemed very difficult to happen, as it involved changing hearts of some people. Doubts about it come when we do not consider the great power of God. When our relationship with God becomes clouded with anxieties, we tend to forget that God is omnipotent.
This morning , after some anxious night hours and dreams, I said, ' Lord what do you say to me about this situation? ' and opened the bible. I just couldn't believe my eyes when the bible opened to Mark 10th chapter and my eyes fell on the27th verse. " Jesus looking upon them saith, with men it is impossible but not with God: for with God All things are possible".
I was touched by my Lord's loving care for me. I praised Him profusely. It raised my level of faith in Him. He is able to do anything and every thing. If He does not do it, it is for some greater good. We got to trust Him. He is faithful.
I spent some time in God's word. I was strengthened by the following verses: He is able to deliver [Daniel3:17] ; to fulfill all His promises. [Romans4: 21] to subdue all things[Phil.3:21] ; able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think [Ephesians 3:20.] ; able to make his grace abound [2nd Cor9:8] ; to save us to the uttermost[Heb7:25]; and to keep us from falling. [Jude24]
What a mighty God we serve!
I was praying about a certain thing which seemed very difficult to happen, as it involved changing hearts of some people. Doubts about it come when we do not consider the great power of God. When our relationship with God becomes clouded with anxieties, we tend to forget that God is omnipotent.
This morning , after some anxious night hours and dreams, I said, ' Lord what do you say to me about this situation? ' and opened the bible. I just couldn't believe my eyes when the bible opened to Mark 10th chapter and my eyes fell on the27th verse. " Jesus looking upon them saith, with men it is impossible but not with God: for with God All things are possible".
I was touched by my Lord's loving care for me. I praised Him profusely. It raised my level of faith in Him. He is able to do anything and every thing. If He does not do it, it is for some greater good. We got to trust Him. He is faithful.
I spent some time in God's word. I was strengthened by the following verses: He is able to deliver [Daniel3:17] ; to fulfill all His promises. [Romans4: 21] to subdue all things[Phil.3:21] ; able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think [Ephesians 3:20.] ; able to make his grace abound [2nd Cor9:8] ; to save us to the uttermost[Heb7:25]; and to keep us from falling. [Jude24]
What a mighty God we serve!
Monday, June 23, 2008
The Graduation Day.
My grand daughter's graduation was a great exciting day for me. The beautiful ceremony was very touching. Memories of her first day at school passed before my eyes. At last the day had come to finish her High school days!
I had a gift ready for her. She was very pleased with it. It was a cute standing snoopy dog with a graduation cap and a neat place to tuck in money or a gift card. It will sing to you when it's stomach is pressed. I bought it in states, when she had just started her 11th grade. I had it hidden for her so long . Then it looked as though Iwould have to hold on to it for a very long time. But the time seemed to fly and the day arrived for her to get the gift, I longed to give her. She deserved it too. I can not describe how thrilled she was to get it!
My thoughts went to the gift our lord has prepared for us to reward us on our graduation day. The Bible says,"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived, what God has prepared for those who love Him" [1Cor. 2:9]. He has decided the date, though we do not know it. It appears so far away, but soon we will be there.
I like the way T.L Moody described his departure from this world for his graduation. He said, "The earth recedes. Heaven opens before me. It is beautiful. It is like a trance. If this is death, it is sweet. God is calling me. I must go. Don't call me back."
At death, his work on earth came to an end. He would have had his graduation reward in heaven! True to his earlier preaching: 'I was born in flesh in 1837, born of the spirit in 1855. That which is born of the spirit shall live for ever', he he went to be with the Lord in 1899.
I wish I too could say like him when my graduation day arrives at last.
How about you?
I had a gift ready for her. She was very pleased with it. It was a cute standing snoopy dog with a graduation cap and a neat place to tuck in money or a gift card. It will sing to you when it's stomach is pressed. I bought it in states, when she had just started her 11th grade. I had it hidden for her so long . Then it looked as though Iwould have to hold on to it for a very long time. But the time seemed to fly and the day arrived for her to get the gift, I longed to give her. She deserved it too. I can not describe how thrilled she was to get it!
My thoughts went to the gift our lord has prepared for us to reward us on our graduation day. The Bible says,"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived, what God has prepared for those who love Him" [1Cor. 2:9]. He has decided the date, though we do not know it. It appears so far away, but soon we will be there.
I like the way T.L Moody described his departure from this world for his graduation. He said, "The earth recedes. Heaven opens before me. It is beautiful. It is like a trance. If this is death, it is sweet. God is calling me. I must go. Don't call me back."
At death, his work on earth came to an end. He would have had his graduation reward in heaven! True to his earlier preaching: 'I was born in flesh in 1837, born of the spirit in 1855. That which is born of the spirit shall live for ever', he he went to be with the Lord in 1899.
I wish I too could say like him when my graduation day arrives at last.
How about you?
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