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The LORD is near Daily Devotional for 2021

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Friday, December 31, 2021 Looking Back, Looking up, and Looking Forward When Pharaoh drew near, the children of Israel lifted their eyes, and behold, the Egyptians marched after them. So they were very afraid, and the children of Israel cried out to the Lord. Exodus 14:10 Looking Back, Looking up, and Looking Forward As we approach the close of another year, it is common to look behind us at what is past. The historical view is not always encouraging though! It may be that, like the children of Israel, you look back and become afraid. Perhaps over the past year financial troubles have increased or friendships have dissolved. Perhaps your health is failing, your family...More Thursday, December 30, 2021 Habitual and Persevering Prayer Evening and morning and at noon I will pray, and cry aloud, and He shall hear my voice. Psalm 55:17 Habitual and Persevering Prayer I might say something of the value of regular times in the day for prayer. God is a God of order. The hours of the morning and evening sacrifice in the Jewish temple were not established as they were without a meaning (Ps. 55:17). Disorder is notably one of the fruits of sin. But I would not bring anyone under bondage. I only say this, that it is essential to your soul’s health to make praying a part of the routine of every twenty-four hours in your life. Just...More Wednesday, December 29, 2021 Fresh and Flourishing in the Senior Years Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flourishing, to declare that the Lord is upright. Psalm 92:13-15 Fresh and Flourishing in the Senior Years While waiting in an airport I met Carl. He had just graduated from high school and won the student-of-the-year award. He hoped to go on to college. Before you ask why this is worth talking about, let me say that Carl is 90 years old. He showed me a congratulating certificate which said, “Your achievement speaks well of your solid...More Tuesday, December 28, 2021 The Christian Under Human Government (12) You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9 The Christian Under Human Government (12) With the above beautiful words, Paul summarized the unfathomable mystery of who Jesus is, God blessed over all. The expression He was rich—literally, “He, being rich”—indicates that He did not stop being rich, being God, when He made Himself poor, coming in flesh at His incarnation (Jn. 1:14; 1 Tim. 3:16). This amazing event fulfilled many prophecies about Messiah’s coming,...More Monday, December 27, 2021 The Manhood of Christ (1) For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus. 1 Tim. 2:5 The Manhood of Christ (1) There are few things in which we exhibit more failure than in maintaining vigorous communion with the perfect manhood of the Lord Jesus Christ. Hence it is that we suffer so much from vacancy, barrenness, restlessness, and wandering. Did we but enter, with a more sincere faith, into the truth that there is a real Man at the right hand of the Majesty in the heavens—One whose sympathy is perfect, whose love is fathomless, whose power is omnipotent, whose wisdom is infinite, whose...More Sunday, December 26, 2021 The Son of Man “Lifted Up” in John’s Gospel (3) “And I, if I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all peoples to Myself.” This He said, signifying by what death He would die. John 12:32-33 The Son of Man “Lifted Up” in John’s Gospel (3) This is the third and final reference to the Son of Man being lifted up in John’s Gospel (see 3:14; 8:28). This statement comes in response to a desire of some Greeks to “see Jesus” (12:21). The Son of Man must first be glorified through His death on the cross (v. 23). The hour, however, was drawing near in which He would be glorified, and the Lord was “troubled” by the thought of...More Saturday, December 25, 2021 The Angels’ Song (2)—Good Will And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying … “Goodwill toward men!” Luke 2:13-14 The Angels’ Song (2)—Good Will Wise men have thought from what we have seen in creation that God had much goodwill toward man, or else His works would never have been so constructed for their comfort; but I never heard of any man who could risk his soul’s peace upon such a faint hope as that. But I have not only heard of thousands, but I know them, who are quite sure that God has goodwill towards men; and if you ask their reason, they will give...More Friday, December 24, 2021 The Angels’ Song (1)—Peace Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace. Luke 2:14 The Angels’ Song (1)—Peace When angels sang this, they sang what they had never sung before. “Glory to God in the highest,” was an old, old song; they had sung that from before the foundations of the world. But now, they sang as it were a new song before the throne of God, for they added this stanza: on earth peace. They did not sing that in the Garden of Eden. There was peace there, but it seemed an everyday thing, and scarce worth singing of. There was more than peace there; for there was glory to God there. But now, man had...More Thursday, December 23, 2021 Lessons on Jehoshaphat (6)—How to Be Established and Prosper Hear me, O Judah and you inhabitants of Jerusalem: Believe in the Lord your God, and you shall be established; believe His prophets, and you shall prosper. 2 Chronicles 20:20 Lessons on Jehoshaphat (6)—How to Be Established and Prosper The day before, Jehoshaphat cried to the Lord and the answer came by a prophet, saying that the Lord himself would take care of the battle against their enemies. To this, Jehoshaphat and the whole congregation bowed before the Lord in worship. But the next morning, would it be the same? We see that Jehoshaphat really received the word of the Lord without doubting....More Wednesday, December 22, 2021 Inquiring of the Lord Now when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the Lord, she came to test him with hard questions … and when she came to Solomon, she spoke with him about all that was in her heart. 1 Kings 10:1-2 Inquiring of the Lord Solomon had moments of great faith and also moments of great failure. In our portion we see him as a lovely type of Christ, who is the wisdom of God a href="https://www.dailydevotionalsonline.com/the-LORD-is-near-2021.php" title="But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.">(1 Cor....More Tuesday, December 21, 2021 The Christian Under Human Government (11) Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7 The Christian Under Human Government (11) After they had celebrated the Passover, Israel left Egypt under Moses’ leadership. He led them through the Red Sea, under God’s glory cloud, as they were baptized to Moses (1 Cor. 10:2). Similarly, through baptism, believers publicly identified with the despised Jesus of Nazareth to follow Him (1 Pet. 3:15-18). We follow Him as well, even though we may have to live under an ungodly government, in the same world that rejected Him. When “the fullness of time” (Gal. 4:4)...More Monday, December 20, 2021 Light That Leads to Peace And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; for you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways, to give knowledge of salvation to His people … to give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. Luke 1:76-77, 79 Light That Leads to Peace In this passage, Zacharias the priest prophesies about the birth of Jesus the Savior, and then here about his own child. In adulthood his son would become known as John the Baptist, the Messiah’s messenger. Zacharias’s prophecy includes three great purposes of John’s life:...More Sunday, December 19, 2021 The Son of Man “Lifted Up” in John’s Gospel (2) Then Jesus said to them, “When you lift up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am He.” John 8:28 The Son of Man “Lifted Up” in John’s Gospel (2) This is the second occasion in John’s Gospel in which the Lord speaks about being lifted up—specifically that they would lift Him up as the Son of Man, the first occasion being found in John 3:14. The term Son of Man was often used by the Lord Jesus in reference to His rejection and sufferings, or when speaking of His glorious second coming and kingdom. Christ’s sufferings and glory are the two characteristic features of that name....More Saturday, December 18, 2021 Who Will Ring the Bell? Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thine understanding. Luke 10:27 Who Will Ring the Bell? Bong, bong. The sound of the bell broke my sleep early in the morning. As I looked out of my window, I saw old brother Tatai, striking a truck tire rim with an iron bar. Resounding with each blow, the sound of the bell was calling out to the forest village that prayer meeting would be starting in half an hour. Five minutes before the meeting, there he was again, striking the bell to signal meeting time. It is so heart-warming to...More Friday, December 17, 2021 Lessons on Jehoshaphat (5)—Help in Times of Need Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. So Judah gathered together to ask help from the Lord; and from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the Lord. 2 Chronicles 20:3-4 Lessons on Jehoshaphat (5)—Help in Times of Need Jehoshaphat heard that the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir came to battle against him. The reaction of Jehoshaphat is fear. We might be surprised to read that the king feared! But it is exactly the reaction we should have when we face the enemy of our soul. If there is confidence in us, in our means, strength, or...More Thursday, December 16, 2021 Three Fires (3) There went out fire from before Jehovah, and devoured them, and they died before Jehovah. And Moses said to Aaron, This is what Jehovah spoke, saying, I will be hallowed in them that come near Me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron was silent. Leviticus 10:2-3 Three Fires (3) Fire coming from the presence of Jehovah and consuming the burnt offering in Leviticus 9:24 was the witness of God’s approval and acceptance of it. In today’s verse, the fire from before Jehovah was the evidence of His disapproval. Why the difference now? God Himself furnishes the...More Wednesday, December 15, 2021 Three Fires (2) The sons of Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, took each of them his censer, and put fire in it, and put incense on it, and presented strange fire before Jehovah, which He had not commanded them. Leviticus 10:1 Three Fires (2) The tabernacle service had been established. Details of how to approach with the appropriate sacrifices had been given by God. And the priests, Aaron’s sons, were consecrated, God having given clear instructions for them to follow. Whatever happened now? The sad history of man’s failure repeats itself again and again. Nadab and Abihu were as well instructed as were their...More Tuesday, December 14, 2021 Three Fires (1) Moses and Aaron went into the tent of meeting, and came out and blessed the people; and the glory of Jehovah appeared to all the people. And there went out fire from before Jehovah, and consumed on the altar the burnt-offering, and the pieces of fat; and all the people saw it, and they shouted, and fell on their face. Leviticus 9:23-24 Three Fires (1) Jehovah in His mercy had redeemed His people. He then guided them by His strength to His holy habitation. From His dwelling place He opened up to them the rich treasures of His heart. The early chapters of Leviticus in a typical way speak of the...More Monday, December 13, 2021 Luke—Beloved Physician and Historian Forasmuch as many have undertaken to draw up a relation concerning the matters fully believed among us, as those who from the beginning were eye-witnesses of and attendants on the Word have delivered them to us, it has seemed good to me also, accurately acquainted from the origin with all things, to write to thee with method, most excellent Theophilus, that thou mightest know the certainty of those things in which thou hast been instructed. Luke 1:1-4 Luke—Beloved Physician and Historian These verses introduce the Gospel of Luke, a carefully written, well-researched book presenting the Lord Jesus as...More Sunday, December 12, 2021 The Son of Man “Lifted Up” in John’s Gospel (1) And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up. John 3:14 The Son of Man “Lifted Up” in John’s Gospel (1) Three times in John’s Gospel we find a statement about the Son of Man being lifted up (3:14; 8:28; 12:32-34). On all three occasions it is the Lord Jesus Himself that declares it, and it is evident from His words that He is speaking about His impending death on the cross. Christ first mentions it in a conversation with Nicodemus, a Pharisee and religious ruler of the Jews. It is lovely to see Christ as a soul-winner here, as we often...More Saturday, December 11, 2021 No Peace Until the Prince of Peace Comes And His name will be called … Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6 No Peace Until the Prince of Peace Comes The Prince of Peace came, but He didn’t bring peace. All the trouble and war that existed before His coming continued after He came. Why? Because He was rejected by His people. In the words of the parable they said, “We will not have this man to reign over us” (Lk. 19:14). They crowned Him with thorns and nailed Him to a cross. Actually, in His death and resurrection He did something far greater than bringing peace on earth. He accomplished the work of redemption whereby we can have peace...More Friday, December 10, 2021 Beware of the Food There were false prophets also among the people, as there shall be also among you false teachers, who shall bring in by the bye destructive heresies, and deny the Master that bought them, bringing upon themselves swift destruction. 2 Peter 2:1 Beware of the Food Food poisoning is the most dreaded of all diseases of nutrition. Not only is it harmful, but it is often fatal. Any sensible person will shun food if he suspects that it is poisoned, no matter how hungry he is or how good the food appears. For some reason, many Christians do not take the matter as seriously when it comes to...More Thursday, December 9, 2021 What Is a Christian? And the disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. Acts 11:26 What Is a Christian? It is a great blessing to live in a part of the world where the Word of God is preached, and which we call Christendom. Because we live in a “Christian country” doesn’t make us Christians. The disciples were first called Christians in Antioch. A Christian, in the true sense of the word, is first a disciple of Christ, that is, one who has personally trusted in Him and received eternal life; who follows His teachings; and who is Christ-like in life and conduct. It is no wonder, then, that the...More Wednesday, December 8, 2021 Lessons on Jehoshaphat (4)—God Considers Our Associations Should you help the wicked and love those who hate the Lord? Therefore the wrath of the Lord is upon you. 2 Chronicles 19:2 Lessons on Jehoshaphat (4)—God Considers Our Associations Some years after Jehoshaphat allied himself with Ahab, he went down to visit him in Samaria. At this occasion Ahab asked him, “Will you go with me against Ramoth Gilead?” To this, he answered, “I am as you are, and my people as your people; we will be with you in the war” (2 Chr. 18:3). Is it really like that? Jehoshaphat had a real heart for the Lord, but unfortunately he engaged himself before asking...More Tuesday, December 7, 2021 John Mark, Helper of Paul Barnabas and Saul returned from Jerusalem … they also took with them John whose surname was Mark … They also had John as their assistant … they came to Perga in Pamphylia; and John, departing from them, returned to Jerusalem. Barnabas was determined to take with them John called Mark. But Paul insisted that they should not take with them the one who had departed from them in Pamphylia, and had not gone with them to the work. Acts 12:25; 13:5, 13; Acts 15:37-38 John Mark, Helper of Paul “How can this be?” we ask. Thank God, His Word tells us not only of John Mark’s failure,...More Monday, December 6, 2021 The Christian Under Human Government (10) It is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. 1 Peter 3:17 The Christian Under Human Government (10) The apostle Paul had been put on trial in Rome, where he was kept as a criminal in a dungeon. In his great need, he realized that the Lord is always in control: He was at his side, provided for him, and even rescued him from the attacks of the enemy. Paul kept trusting Him for continued help until the end (2 Tim. 4:17-18). Possibly a year earlier, Peter had been held in one of Nero’s prisons when tremendous persecutions raged in several parts of the...More Sunday, December 5, 2021 The Blood of Christ (15)—His Blood Has Made Us Priests To Him who loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Revelation 1:5-6 The Blood of Christ (15)—His Blood Has Made Us Priests How wonderful to consider the cleansing power of the blood of Christ! “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin” (1 Jn. 1:7). This verse in 1 John shows the character of this blood. It is all-cleansing blood. How thankful we are that there is not a sin that the blood of Christ cannot cleanse. While His blood was shed once for all,...More Saturday, December 4, 2021 Watch and Pray—The Key to Victorious Christian Living Nevertheless we made our prayer to our God, and because of them we set a watch against them day and night. Nehemiah 4:9 Watch and Pray—The Key to Victorious Christian Living It is good to watch and pray! Nehemiah had set a watch because of the danger from the enemy around him. This was the secret to his victory over the enemy who would hinder rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. This is also the way to victory in our Christian lives. Watching has the thought of observing and discerning the needs around us. Praying is the act of depending on God completely to help meet those needs. In...More Friday, December 3, 2021 The Manhood of Christ (3) And they were astonished beyond measure, saying, “He has done all things well.” Mark 7:37 The Manhood of Christ (3) See Him in the Garden of Gethsemane. There, He kneels in the profound depths of a humility which none but Himself could exhibit; but yet, before the traitor’s band, He exhibits a self-possession and majesty which cause them to go backward and fall to the ground. His deportment before God is prostration; before His judges and accusers, unbending dignity. All is perfect. The self-emptiness and the self-possession, the prostration and the dignity, all are divine. So...More Thursday, December 2, 2021 The Manhood of Christ (2) The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. John 1:14 The Manhood of Christ (2) The Lord Jesus Christ was the only perfect Man that ever trod this earth. He was all perfect—perfect in thought, perfect in word, perfect in action. In Him every moral quality met in divine and, therefore, perfect proportion. No one feature preponderated. In Him were exquisitely blended a majesty which overawed, and a gentleness which gave perfect ease in His presence. The Scribes and the Pharisees met His withering rebuke; while the poor Samaritan, and “the woman that was a sinner,” found themselves unaccountably,...More Wednesday, December 1, 2021 The Manhood of Christ (1) For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus. 1 Tim. 2:5 The Manhood of Christ (1) There are few things in which we exhibit more failure than in maintaining vigorous communion with the perfect manhood of the Lord Jesus Christ. Hence it is that we suffer so much from vacancy, barrenness, restlessness, and wandering. Did we but enter, with a more sincere faith, into the truth that there is a real Man at the right hand of the Majesty in the heavens—One whose sympathy is perfect, whose love is fathomless, whose power is omnipotent, whose wisdom is infinite, whose...More Tuesday, November 30, 2021 Lessons on Jehoshaphat (3)—Decisions and Consequences Jehoshaphat had riches and honor in abundance; and he allied himself with Ahab by marriage. 2 Chronicles 18:1 Lessons on Jehoshaphat (3)—Decisions and Consequences Jehoshaphat had riches and honor in abundance. He had these blessings because the Lord was with him (2 Chr. 17:3), just as we enjoy our spiritual blessings in Christ when the Holy Spirit of God is not grieved in us and can communicate them to us freely. All this certainly gave Jehoshaphat a lot of influence around him. But how did he use this influence? We read that “Jehoshaphat was at peace with the king of Israel”...More Monday, November 29, 2021 God’s Greatness in Creation In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth … God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light … God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion” … So God created man … male and female He created them. Then God blessed them. Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding. Genesis 1:1, 3, 26-28; Job 38:4 God’s Greatness in Creation The Bible begins with the majestic declaration that in the beginning God—who was there, for He has no beginning—created the heavens and...More Sunday, November 28, 2021 The Blood of Christ (14)—Precious Blood Knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot. He indeed was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you. 1 Peter 1:18-20 The Blood of Christ (14)—Precious Blood Silver and gold can purchase many things. However, they could not redeem us in God’s sight. “Their wealth … their riches … None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a...More Saturday, November 27, 2021 The Christian Under Human Government (9) The Lord will deliver me from every evil work and preserve me for His heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory forever and ever. 2 Timothy 4:18 The Christian Under Human Government (9) A few years after writing instructions to Timothy in his first epistle, the apostle Paul was arrested and sent to Rome to be put on trial because of charges against him. Transported there, he was thrown into a prison dungeon and faced terrible conditions. This was his second Roman imprisonment. Previously, when arrested in Jerusalem (Acts 22), the Roman authorities had shown some clemency towards the apostle, as they...More Friday, November 26, 2021 God’s Judgment of Sin For I have told him that I will judge his house forever for the iniquity which he knows, because his sons made themselves vile, and he did not restrain them. 1 Samuel 3:13 God’s Judgment of Sin Eli’s sons had despised the offerings of the Lord, and had committed immorality at the door of the tabernacle of meeting (1 Sam. 2:22). They had caused many to stumble and hate the offering of the Lord. Such shameful conduct is not unheard of in many churches today. Even though Eli’s sons made light of sin, “the sin of the young men was very great before the Lord” (v. 17). Eli heard the report...More Thursday, November 25, 2021 Holding Fast to the Head Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, and not holding fast to the Head, from whom all the body, nourished and knit together by joints and ligaments, grows with the increase that is from God. Colossians 2:18-19 Holding Fast to the Head This is a warning that we will be cheated if we allow anyone to impose legal ordinances on us after we have known the grace of God in Christ. If we go back to the law, we will soon be guilty of breaking the law, which forbids...More Wednesday, November 24, 2021 The Red Heifer For an unclean person they shall take some of the ashes of the heifer burnt for purification from sin. Whoever has touched any slain, purify yourselves Numbers 19:17; . Numbers 31:19 The Red Heifer All through the wilderness Israel was defiled by contact with death; but God had an answer. An unblemished red heifer was sacrificed and burned outside the camp. Its ashes were reserved for future use. When one became unclean by exposure to a dead body, the ashes mixed with water were sprinkled on the defiled person. Numbers 19 describes many other beautiful details of this...More Tuesday, November 23, 2021 The First Man and the Second Man God saw everything that He had made, and behold it was very good. Joseph died, a hundred and ten years old; and they embalmed him; and he was put in a coffin in Egypt. Genesis 1:31; Genesis 50:26 The First Man and the Second Man The early chapters of Genesis teach us in simple terms what many a scientist has not yet learned: “By faith we apprehend that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that that which is seen should not take its origin from things which appear” (Heb. 11:3). The Bible gives us the history of two men: the first man Adam, and the Second Man,...More Monday, November 22, 2021 Listening with Our Heart So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath. James 1:19 Listening with Our Heart It is easy to talk more than we listen. This is what Job’s three friends did when they came to “comfort” him in his time of suffering and sorrow. They thought their opinions of Job’s situation would encourage him. They came to conclusions that were not accurate. They even accused Job of having hidden sin in his life. Their explanations of the way God was working in Job’s life only made things worse for Job. Job also made mistakes in some of his comments. His...More Sunday, November 21, 2021 The Blood of Christ (13)—His Blood Gives Us Access Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which He consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, His flesh … Let us draw near … having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water. Hebrews 10:19-20, 22 The Blood of Christ (13)—His Blood Gives Us Access In our scripture above, we find that Christ’s blood gives us access into the holiest, into God’s very presence. Amazing grace! Notice, the Holy Spirit tells us we enter by the blood of Jesus. This is His name that brings before...More Saturday, November 20, 2021 Following the Nazarene Can anything good come out of Nazareth? John 1:46 Following the Nazarene Every region has a town with such a bad reputation that it becomes a byword and symbolic for everything that is bad. Merely mention the name of the place and people get the point right away. I know of a few places like that, and I am sure you do too. Nazareth was such a town in its day. Even in the rural and poverty-stricken region of Galilee in which it was found, Nazareth was looked down upon. It was too hilly and rocky for farming, and too far from the Sea of Galilee to benefit from the lucrative fishing industry...More Friday, November 19, 2021 The Renewal of the Earth Is Coming The glory of Jehovah will endure forever; Jehovah will rejoice in His works. Psalm 104:31 The Renewal of the Earth Is Coming A good way to spoil a beautiful drive through the countryside is to come upon an auto junkyard. All those smashed and rusting hulks of steel were once shining and glorious, a tribute to man’s technology and ingenuity. But as soon as they grow old and die, they become a problem for society and a blot upon the landscape. What a difference with the things that God has created! Have you ever walked through a forest and noticed the remains of trees which have fallen? Over a...More Thursday, November 18, 2021 Solemn, Loving, Closing Words The salutation of me Paul with my own hand. If anyone love not the Lord Jesus Christ let him be Anathema Maranatha. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. My love be with you all in Christ Jesus. 1 Corinthians 16:21-24 Solemn, Loving, Closing Words The apostle Paul has come to the end of his lengthy epistle written to the assembly at Corinth, and to us as well, for we too are sanctified in Christ Jesus, saints by divine calling, who in every place call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (1:2). He has had to deal with divisiveness, fleshly attitudes, tolerance of immorality, lawsuits...More Wednesday, November 17, 2021 God Sees Every Corner of Our Heart Doth not He see my ways, and number all my steps? Job 31:4 God Sees Every Corner of Our Heart The light of Christ’s eye is coming right down upon me. If there is one corner of my heart covered over, I am uncomfortable under it. I could not sit in the Father’s house and have His eye meet one corner of my heart not brought out. I do not want one corner in it to be covered by the thinnest veil possible. It is a solemn but blessed thing to the soul, to have the eye of God coming right down into it. It is a very blessed thing that the One who has washed you in His own blood, and has undertaken to...More Tuesday, November 16, 2021 The Christian Under Human Government (8) I urge you in the sight of God who gives life to all things, and before Christ Jesus who witnessed the good confession before Pontius Pilate, that you keep this commandment without spot, blameless until our Lord Jesus Christ’s appearing. 1 Timothy 6:13-14 The Christian Under Human Government (8) All true believers are in the house of the living God (1 Tim. 3:15-16). Thus, they are part of God’s testimony to this world, even when living under an anti-God government, facing satanic opposition (4:1-5). In this context, it is important to look at the instructions Paul wrote to his co-worker....More Monday, November 15, 2021 Lessons on Jehoshaphat (2)—The Importance of Knowing God’s Word In the third year of his reign [Jehoshaphat] sent his leaders … to teach in the cities of Judah. And with them he sent Levites … and with them Elishama and Jehoram, the priests. So they taught in Judah, and had the Book of the Law of the Lord with them; they went throughout all the cities of Judah and taught the people. 2 Chronicles 17:7-9 Lessons on Jehoshaphat (2)—The Importance of Knowing God’s Word Jehoshaphat did not think that his faith was something personal and that he should not bother others with it. He did not think that doctrine was not important the moment there was unity in...More Sunday, November 14, 2021 The Blood of Christ (12)—Purging the Conscience Sacrifices are offered which cannot make him who performed the service perfect in regard to the conscience … For if the blood of bulls and goats … sanctifies for the purifying of the flesh … How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? Hebrews 9:9, 13-14 The Blood of Christ (12)—Purging the Conscience We find another great contrast between what Aaron was able to do with the sacrifices and blood he brought to God, and what Christ was able to do through...More Saturday, November 13, 2021 Prayer Can Lighten Our Cross Put my tears into Your bottle; are they not in Your book? When I cry out to You then my enemies will turn back. Psalm 56:8-9 Prayer Can Lighten Our Cross There is a friend ever waiting to help us, if we will only tell Him our sorrow; a friend who pitied the poor, and sick, and sorrowful, when He was on earth; a friend who knows the heart of a man, for He lived thirty-three years as a man among us; a friend who can weep with the weepers, for He was a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; a friend who is able to help us, for there never was earthly pain He could not cure. That friend is Jesus...More Friday, November 12, 2021 The Importance of “Good Works” Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men. Titus 3:1-2 The Importance of “Good Works” After Paul’s many instructions in the first two chapters of Titus, he continues with more in chapter 3. Here he reminds the Christians in the assemblies in Crete to be subject to rulers and to obey those in authority. In Romans 13:1, we find this same exhortation: “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and...More Thursday, November 11, 2021 Qualified for the Inheritance Giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love. Colossians 1:12-13 Qualified for the Inheritance In Paul’s prayer for the Colossians, he desires that they give thanks to the Father, and he continues with a declaration of truth which is indeed cause for wholehearted thanksgiving. The Father has already “qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light.” By virtue of redemption, He has given us title to...More Wednesday, November 10, 2021 Time in the Ark The Lord said to Noah, “Come into the ark” … All the fountains of the great deep were broken up, and the windows of heaven were opened. And the rain was on the earth forty days and forty nights … Then God spoke to Noah, saying, “Go out of the ark.” Genesis 7:1, 11-12; 8:15-16 Time in the Ark It is easy to skim over the experiences of Noah and his family in the ark. It was actually their home for more than a year. First came 40 days of torrential rain, along with explosive fountains of water from the depths. Although the ark was quite stable, with proportions nearly identical to modern...More Tuesday, November 9, 2021 A Lesson from Bananas In this is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit. John 15:8 A Lesson from Bananas Most of us have probably not seen a banana plant nor seen how its fruit is harvested. I was shocked when the man who was going to give me a bunch of bananas chopped down the entire plant with several quick blows of his machete. He then cut off the bunch of bananas and gave it to me. Typically, a banana plant begins as a shoot of the mother plant. It will grow and in half a year produce a large flower which over the next six months will develop into a bunch of bananas. This may have many large...More Monday, November 8, 2021 Lessons on Jehoshaphat (1)—How Can the Lord Be with Us? Now the Lord was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the former ways of his father David; he did not seek the Baals, but sought the God of his father, and walked in His commandments and not according to the acts of Israel. 2 Chronicles 17:3-4 Lessons on Jehoshaphat (1)—How Can the Lord Be with Us? The Lord was with Jehoshaphat. What a beautiful introduction and summary to the reign of Jehoshaphat. He certainly had some lessons to learn, as we find in the account of his reign, but this beautiful commendation is given of him. Is it also our desire that it be seen and known that the Lord is with...More Sunday, November 7, 2021 The Blood of Christ (11)—Giving Access to the Holiest Into the second part the high priest went alone once a year, not without blood … Not with the blood of goats and calves, but with His own blood He entered the Most Holy Place once for all. Hebrews 9:7, 12 The Blood of Christ (11)—Giving Access to the Holiest The Book of Hebrews explains many of the types and shadows of the Old Testament and shows how Christ has fulfilled them. Often we find a great contrast between these Old Testament types and the spiritual reality we have now in Christ. This is seen in our verses above. Aaron entered the second compartment of the tabernacle, the...More Saturday, November 6, 2021 A Tree Planted He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper. Psalm 1:3 A Tree Planted Just as trees require nutrients, water, and light, Christians require the Word, the Holy Spirit, and the glorious Person of Jesus Christ in their life to flourish. The first psalm pronounces a blessing on any who would distance themselves from the ungodly, to not walk in their counsel. Sinners, just as we once were, are headed down a path to perdition, and we must not stand with them. In our day there are...More Friday, November 5, 2021 Righteousness Through Faith in Christ And be found in Him, not having my own righteousness, which is from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ, the righteousness which is from God by faith. Philippians 3:9 Righteousness Through Faith in Christ Righteousness is defined as “the quality or character of being right or just.” Paul describes two kinds of righteousness in the above verse: firstly, my own righteousness, which is from the law; and secondly, the righteousness which is from God through faith. Paul, expressing his heart’s desire for the salvation of Israel, said that “they being ignorant of...More Thursday, November 4, 2021 The Two Great Distinguishing Features of Christianity (2) The Lord Himself … shall descend from heaven; and the dead in Christ shall rise first; then we, the living who remain, shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air; and thus we shall be always with the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 The Two Great Distinguishing Features of Christianity (2) The blessings of the cross are not confined to this present period. Every saint of every age, whether past, present, or future, finds in the cross the righteous basis of all blessing. Nor can the coming of Christ be confined to the saints of the present period. This great...More Wednesday, November 3, 2021 The Two Great Distinguishing Features of Christianity (1) Old things have passed away; behold all things have become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17 The Two Great Distinguishing Features of Christianity (1) Old things pass away and in Christ there is the introduction of all things new. But further, we have brought before us the two great outstanding facts of the Christian period on the basis of which the new things of Christianity are established, and by which the truth of Christianity is maintained. These two distinguishing facts are prophetically announced in John 7:39. On the last and great day of the feast—the day that looks on to a new world of...More Tuesday, November 2, 2021 The Christian Under Human Government (7) He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and He will deliver us. On Him we have set our hope that He will deliver us again. 2 Corinthians 1:10 The Christian Under Human Government (7) How should a Christian behave under an ungodly government? Let’s be aware that even in the so-called free world, much persecution exists because many of those in authority reject biblical values. Humanistic thinking has taken over in the name of liberty and human rights, setting aside any notion of God and of His rights. Besides that, in many countries all over the world, the government allows, or even promotes,...More Monday, November 1, 2021 Following Christ in His Present Rejection And [David] arose and departed; and Jonathan went into the city. 1 Samuel 20:42 Following Christ in His Present Rejection The story of Jonathan has a very serious lesson to teach us. We have seen his faith, his love, and his efforts to help David in his rejection. But here we have the first sign of something that wasn’t right. David had to leave and hide from Saul, but Jonathan didn’t go with him; He went home. He loved David and he served David, but he wasn’t ready to follow him in his rejection. In 1 Samuel 22:1-2 we find David living and hiding in the cave of Adullam....More Sunday, October 31, 2021 The Blood of Christ (10)—Peace and Reconciliation Having made peace through the blood of His cross. And you, who once were alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now He has reconciled. Colossians 1:20-21 The Blood of Christ (10)—Peace and Reconciliation Colossians chapter 1 presents to us the greatness of Christ, the Head of His Church. From verses 12 to 18 we have numerous glories of our Lord brought forth. He is the Son of the Father’s love; He is the Redeemer; He is the image of the invisible God; He is the Creator; He holds all things together. Then, from verses 20 to 22 we learn something of His great work as...More Saturday, October 30, 2021 A Word for Husbands and Fathers For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood … Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Ephesians 6:12-13 A Word for Husbands and Fathers If the husband is not enjoying this fellowship with our heavenly father, how is he going to give it to his wife and to his children? But how good it is when we walk with the Lord. Our spouses and our children will see it, and they will be strengthened and made safe by it. It is so important to be in constant communion with our Heavenly Father. How blessed we are when we walk in...More Friday, October 29, 2021 When Your Name Is a Number Sopater of Berea accompanied him to Asia—also Aristarchus and Secundus of the Thessalonians. I, Tertius, who wrote this epistle, greet you in the Lord. Gaius, my host and the host of the whole church, greets you. Erastus, the treasurer of the city, greets you, and Quartus, a brother. Acts 20:4; Romans 16:22-23 When Your Name Is a Number Sad to say, in the ancient Roman Empire and in many cultures and societies of old, slavery was commonplace. God made human beings in His own image and set them over all His creation on earth. He gave them life and dignity and blessed them. Centuries...More Thursday, October 28, 2021 The Godly Example of Mature Believers Denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. Titus 2:12-13 The Godly Example of Mature Believers In this chapter, Paul continues his instructions as Titus seeks to set in order the things lacking in the assembly at Crete. Paul reminds Titus to “speak the things which are proper for sound doctrine” (v. 1), and then gives specific exhortations for the older men, older women, young women, and young men. Those who are older are spoken...More Wednesday, October 27, 2021 Lessons on Asa (5)—Falling After a Great Victory Asa brought silver and gold from the treasuries of the house of the Lord and of the king’s house, and sent to Ben-Hadad king of Syria … saying, “Let there be a treaty between you and me.” 2 Chronicles 16:2-3 Lessons on Asa (5)—Falling After a Great Victory The enemy does not like to see the people of God in peace and prosperity. He used Zerah the Ethiopian, and when it failed, he used Baasha, king of Israel. Asa had victory over Zerah in the 15th year of his reign, which was the 35th year of Judah’s kingdom after the division (2 Chr. 15:10, 19). On this occasion, many from Israel...More Tuesday, October 26, 2021 Fear and Faith And [Adam] said, I heard Thy voice in the garden, and I feared, because I am naked; and I hid myself. But to the fearful and unbelieving … their part is in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone; which is the second death. Genesis 3:10; Revelation 21:8 Fear and Faith Fear is the enemy of faith. All through the Scriptures this is shown to be the case. When sin entered the world through disobedience, fear entered with it. As a result, Adam and Eve hid when they heard God’s voice. Guilt, shame, and fear—the unholy trinity of sin’s effects—always conspire to keep us distant...More Monday, October 25, 2021 Lights in a Dark World Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, holding fast the word of life. Philippians 2:14-16 Lights in a Dark World Complaining or grumbling is foreign to the true character of a servant. He must accept with prompt obedience the will of his master, for it is the master, not the servant, who is the judge of what is suitable. We, as children of God, are living our lives among a crooked and perverse generation, but we are to...More Sunday, October 24, 2021 The Blood of Christ (9)—Brings Us Near But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. Ephesians 2:13 The Blood of Christ (9)—Brings Us Near We see in Ephesians chapter 1 that the blood of Christ has given us redemption and forgiveness. In chapter 2 we find another blessing we receive from the blood of Christ. It has brought us near to God. In the first ten verses of chapter 2, the apostle shows how all, whether Jew or Gentile, were dead in trespasses and sins. He then shows how we are made alive together with Christ, raised up together, and seated in the heavenly places in...More Saturday, October 23, 2021 Appreciating Godly Old Men The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness. Proverbs 16:31 Appreciating Godly Old Men As we read through the Bible, we encounter a number of old men who finished their lives in varying conditions of faithfulness. Moses “was a hundred and twenty years old when he died; his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated” (Dt. 34:7). Caleb too, because of his faithful testimony about Canaan when he went in as a spy, lived through the wilderness journey. Then, when most of the land was conquered seven years later, he asked for the portion God had...More Friday, October 22, 2021 The Christian Under Human Government (6) Let no one deceive you. 2 Thessalonians 2:3 The Christian Under Human Government (6) In our days, many Christians suffer persecution under ungodly rulers. The number of believers killed for their faith exceeds that of former times. Also, numerous books have been written about how countless Jewish people have suffered opposition and persecution under the rule of ungodly governments. In our days, many Christians suffer or have even been “eliminated” at the hands of hateful regimes. Did this ever happen before? David was serving the government of King Saul, his father-in-law, who...More Thursday, October 21, 2021 Diligence in Prayer For You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You. Psalm 9:10 Diligence in Prayer Diligence in prayer is the secret of eminent holiness. Without question there is a vast difference among true Christians. There is an immense gap between the greatest and the weakest in the army of God. They are all fighting the same good fight, but how much more valiantly some fight than others! They are all doing the Lord’s work, but how much more some do than others! They are all light in the Lord, but how much more brightly some shine than others! They are all running the same race, but how much...More Wednesday, October 20, 2021 The Professing Church in the Last Days But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come. 2 Timothy 3:1 The Professing Church in the Last Days Second Timothy is the last letter that Paul wrote before his martyrdom; and it is significant that he wrote it, not to the Church, but to an individual about the Church. He wrote to Timothy, not only to encourage him, but to also show him there was a path to follow in the midst of the corruption already setting in. Paul, having already foreseen the failure of the Church, appeals to individual faithfulness in spite of it. At what point is the professing Church now in its...More Tuesday, October 19, 2021 Lessons on Asa (4)—Maintaining Dedication Using Rules? All Judah rejoiced at the oath, for they had sworn with all their heart and sought Him with all their soul; and He was found by them, and the Lord gave them rest all around. 2 Chronicles 15:15 Lessons on Asa (4)—Maintaining Dedication Using Rules? There was great joy and encouragement after the victory against Zerah the Ethiopian, and when Asa and the people heard the words from the Lord given by Azariah. Asa removed the idols from all the land, restored the altar of the Lord, removed the title of queen mother from Maachah because of her idolatry, and brought into the house of God things he and...More Monday, October 18, 2021 The Consequences of Hypocrisy Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last … So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things. Acts 5:9-11 The Consequences of Hypocrisy A new era had again begun in the ways of God with mankind. The Lord Jesus had died on the cross at Calvary, had been buried, had arisen, and had ascended into heaven. Forty days later on the day of Pentecost, in an...More Sunday, October 17, 2021 The Blood of Christ (8)—Redemption and Forgiveness Accepted in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace. Ephesians 1:6-7 The Blood of Christ (8)—Redemption and Forgiveness The epistles of Romans and Ephesians have often been helpfully contrasted. Romans begins from our side, and shows our utter ruin in sin and our sins. Ephesians begins from God’s side, and shows the counsels of His grace in blessing us in Christ. In Romans we begin with what was in our hearts. In Ephesians we begin with what is in God’s heart. Our verses above bring before us three...More Saturday, October 16, 2021 A Misunderstood and Misused Text Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. 2 Corinthians 13:5 A Misunderstood and Misused Text This verse is often misunderstood and even misused to promote the idea that Christians should look within themselves for evidences of salvation. As a Christian I am always to examine myself to see “if there is any wicked way in me” (Ps. 139:24), and to judge myself in God’s presence. However, self-judgment is a much different thing from examining myself in order to find assurance of salvation. Due to the wrong interpretation of this verse, there are many Christians who are forever...More Friday, October 15, 2021 No Fear Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. Psalm 23:4 No Fear Most labor unions, when negotiating for new contracts, seek to build many fringe benefits into the pay package. Some of these are job security, complete health care, holiday pay, sick benefits, retirement pensions, and finally, life insurance. All this seems very appropriate and even necessary for this life. Yet all that can be taken away in a moment. Nothing is secure in this world. But the sheep that follow the Shepherd have the...More Thursday, October 14, 2021 A Hidden Life with God Get away from here and turn eastward, and hide by the Brook Cherith, which flows into the Jordan. And it will be that you shall drink from the brook. 1 Kings 17:3-4 A Hidden Life with God The Lord instructed Elijah to do two opposite things. The first one was probably the harder of the two. Elijah was a very fiery preacher, full of energy and zeal. To be taken out of circulation for three and a half years could well have been very difficult (Jas. 5:17). But God had a purpose in hiding Elijah. What was it? Perhaps this man of God had to be hid because God was preparing him for mighty...More Wednesday, October 13, 2021 The Christian Under Human Government (5) Although they knew God, they did not honor Him as God or give thanks to Him, but they became futile in their thinking … and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and creeping things. Romans 1:21,23 The Christian Under Human Government (5) Shortly after the Flood, Noah honored God with an impressive sacrifice that pleased Him (Gen. 8:20-21). Sometime later, however, Noah failed and got drunk. Soon afterwards all his offspring fell into idolatry, even Shem and his descendants through whom the Messiah would come. Idolatry means that they...More Tuesday, October 12, 2021 Are You Interested in Being Broadened Exceedingly? I have seen an end of all perfection: Thy commandment is exceeding broad. Psalm 119:96 Are You Interested in Being Broadened Exceedingly? “Broaden your world. Read a magazine during your lunch break.” So read the advertisement on the side of a magazine delivery van. How true! Whether our world involves gardening or gossip, sports or soaps, automobiles or aerobics; we can undoubtedly broaden it by reading the latest magazine on the subject. But suppose our world involves reaching the lost, encouraging the Lord’s people, teaching the Word of God, and basically living for the glory...More Monday, October 11, 2021 Take Your Burdens to the Lord in Prayer Let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6 Take Your Burdens to the Lord in Prayer We live in a world where sorrow abounds. This has always been its state since sin came into the world. There cannot be sin without sorrow. And until sin is driven out from the world it is vain for anyone to suppose he can escape sorrow. Some, without doubt, have a larger cup of sorrow to drink than others. But few are to be found who live very long without sorrows or cares of one sort or another. Our bodies, our property, our families, our children, our relations, our friends, our neighbors, our worldly...More Sunday, October 10, 2021 The Blood of Christ (7)—New Covenant Grace In the same manner He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood. This do, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.” 1 Corinthians 11:25 The Blood of Christ (7)—New Covenant Grace On the same night in which our Lord was betrayed, near the end of the Passover supper, He took bread and wine and instituted the Lord’s Supper as a feast of memorial to Himself. This memorial feast was to be carried on “until He comes.” As we remember our Lord Jesus, we look back to His sufferings, we look up to see Him now at the right hand of God, and we...More Saturday, October 9, 2021 The Consequences of Pride He was walking about the royal palace … The king spoke, saying, “Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for a royal dwelling by my mighty power and for the honor of my majesty?” … A voice fell from heaven: “King Nebuchadnezzar, to you it is spoken: the kingdom has departed from you! And they shall drive you from men, and your dwelling shall be with the beasts … until you know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, and gives it to whomever He chooses.” Daniel 4:29-32 The Consequences of Pride Pride is hateful to God. Indeed, a proud look is the first item on the list of...More Friday, October 8, 2021 The Sufficiency of the Word of God 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 complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 The Sufficiency of the Word of God Since all Scripture is from God, it is all profitable, even the genealogies and the names of cities. If my interpretation of it does not give spiritual profit, then my interpretation is not right. First, it is profitable for teaching or doctrine, for this is the basis of all true Christian practice. It is profitable for...More Thursday, October 7, 2021 Lessons on Asa (3)—Three Important Truths Hear me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin. The Lord is with you while you are with Him. If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. 2 Chronicles 15:2 Lessons on Asa (3)—Three Important Truths Azariah, the son of Oded, spoke these words to Asa after the great victory they had over Zerah the Ethiopian. Asa had cried out to the Lord for His help, and his faith was greatly rewarded. He had rested on God. He had passed the test of his faith successfully. Three important truths are presented to us in this verse. First, the Lord is with you while you...More Wednesday, October 6, 2021 Enjoying God’s Riches. My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 Enjoying God’s Riches As Christians we may get discouraged at times and begin to think that we are missing out somehow on the enjoyment that unbelievers experience. In moments of struggle our walk may not be characterized by an attraction to Christ, and our eyes may wander and look at this world almost longingly when we witness the carefree attitude they have. Yet we should ask ourselves, has God called us to live a life of strict rules and deprivation, or ought we instead to be seen as those who...More Tuesday, October 5, 2021 The Christian Under Human Government (4) Fear God. Honor the emperor. 1 Peter 2:17 The Christian Under Human Government (4) Emperor Nero had the apostle Peter executed approximately a year before the same happened to Paul. As a Roman citizen, the apostle Paul was beheaded by the sword. Peter, not being a Roman citizen, was crucified upside-down as he had requested, according to ancient reports. Before their execution, both apostles had been led by God’s Spirit to teach all believers to submit to the authorities. This rule applied to them, just as they had taught, and it is still valid today. “Be subject for the Lord’s sake to every...More Monday, October 4, 2021 The Supremacy of Joseph—A Foreshadowing of Christ’s Supremacy Israel loved Joseph more than all his sons, because he was son of his old age; and he made him a vest of many colors. Genesis 37:3 The Supremacy of Joseph—A Foreshadowing of Christ’s Supremacy “The Father loves the Son” (Jn. 3:35), and faith delights to accept it. On bright occasions we see our Lord Jesus invested with the coat of many colors. In other words, we see in the opened heavens the Father’s delight in Christ as His beloved Son in humiliation, as the Son of Man in heavenly glory, and as the King of kings and Lord of lords, coming forth to reign on earth as Son of Man in...More Sunday, October 3, 2021 The Blood of Christ (6)—The Fellowship of His Blood The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? 1 Corinthians 10:16 The Blood of Christ (6)—The Fellowship of His Blood Our chapter in 1 Corinthians warns the Corinthian believers against the danger of being associated with idolatry. It is one of the things which the Scriptures warn us to “flee” from (v. 14). It has been well said that an idol is anything that comes between the soul and the true and living God. To counteract this idolatry, the apostle is directed to bring...More Saturday, October 2, 2021 Not I but Christ Whoever desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. Mark 8:34 Not I but Christ I have heard it said, “People should be allowed to be themselves.” But I can find no scriptural basis to support this statement, for freedom “to be myself” is to speak and act as I please. If such a practice were carried out in an assembly, the result would be that Christ would be dethroned and self would be enthroned. The promotion of self is contrary to Scripture, for Paul writes, “Knowing this, that our old man [our former self] was crucified with Him, that the body...More Friday, October 1, 2021 Wisdom, Knowledge, and Faith There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit … But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all. 1 Corinthians 12:4, 7 Wisdom, Knowledge, and Faith These manifestations of the Spirit at Corinth were “given to each one for the profit of all.” He didn’t give everything to one man; the gifts were given to each one, and many of these gifts are mentioned in verses 8 to 19. “For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit.” This is the ability to know what to do in difficult or troubling circumstances. I like a simple definition that I read,...More Thursday, September 30, 2021 Lessons on Asa (2)—Trusting God in Everything Asa cried out to the Lord his God, and said, “Lord, it is nothing for You to help, whether with many or with those who have no power; help us, O Lord our God, for we rest on You.” 2 Chronicles 14:11 Lessons on Asa (2)—Trusting God in Everything After ten years of peaceful reign in Judah, Zerah the Ethiopian, came up with an army of a million men against Asa. As a king should, Asa took responsibility and got things ready for battle. But then we see him turning to God in prayer, expressing in a beautiful yet simple way his faith in God. It is through this trial that we see that the ten years...More Wednesday, September 29, 2021 Keep the Lantern Clean But we have this treasure in earthen vessels. 2 Corinthians 4:7 Keep the Lantern Clean The thing that characterizes Christianity is the knowledge of the unveiled glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ, and “if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost” (4:3). There is nothing to come but Christ coming in judgment to the world. Then the trials and afflictions of the present time are all connected with the earthen vessel—its weakness. Even if an apostle, one can only be kept, day by day, by the power of God. The vessel is one thing, the treasure is another. The vessel...More Tuesday, September 28, 2021 The Work of the Holy Spirit in the Believer For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. Romans 8:5 The Work of the Holy Spirit in the Believer No person ever becomes better or worse. A person’s state may become better or worse, but his nature remains precisely what it is. When one is saved, he does not become better. His sinful nature received from Adam remains as sinful as ever, but he receives from God a new nature that is itself absolute perfection. It is the nature seen in the Person of the Lord Jesus—a nature...More Monday, September 27, 2021 The Consequences of Disobedience Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to heed than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the Lord, He also has rejected you from being king. 1 Samuel 15:22-23 The Consequences of Disobedience God expects and delights in obedience. Disobedience always has sad consequences. This is especially noticeable in Scripture when God begins a new way of dealing with His own. He is Supreme and...More Sunday, September 26, 2021 The Blood of Christ (5)—For Our Justification Whom God has set forth a mercy-seat, through faith in His blood … for the showing forth of His righteousness in the present time, so that He should be just, and justify him that is of the faith of Jesus. Much rather therefore, having been now justified in the power of His blood, we shall be saved by Him from wrath. Romans 3:25-26; Romans 5:9 The Blood of Christ (5)—For Our Justification The book of Romans has often been likened to a courtroom scene. All humanity, including you and me, have been brought to be arraigned in God’s court and found guilty. “There is not a righteous...More Saturday, September 25, 2021 The Christian Under Human Government (3) There is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God … whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. Romans 13:1-2 The Christian Under Human Government (3) Standing before Pontius Pilate, the Lord Jesus plainly stated that the governor’s power was given him “from above” (Jn. 19:11). The Lord confirmed Pilate’s God-given authority and said that the one who had delivered Him had the greater sin—Judas, the Jewish nation. Pilate did not want to risk his own life; he sinned...More Friday, September 24, 2021 Joshua’s Service to the Lord Joshua the son of Nun … wholly followed the Lord. Numbers 32:12 Joshua’s Service to the Lord In our generation that is characterized by self-interest and a tendency to promote oneself, how refreshing to look back and see the Christ-like character of Joshua in his self-effacing service. Whether in his early days of humbly dedicating himself to Moses, or later in his life as a mighty leader, he glorified God by his obedience and faithfulness—an example to us all that we should not seek to be served, but like our blessed Lord Jesus, our desire should be to serve others. The first we...More Thursday, September 23, 2021 Diligence in Prayer For You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You. Psalm 9:10 Diligence in Prayer Diligence in prayer is the secret of eminent holiness. Without question there is a vast difference among true Christians. There is an immense gap between the greatest and the weakest in the army of God. They are all fighting the same good fight, but how much more valiantly some fight than others! They are all doing the Lord’s work, but how much more some do than others! They are all light in the Lord, but how much more brightly some shine than others! They are all running the same race, but how much...More Wednesday, September 22, 2021 How Much Do You Value Christ? Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on Him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore which believe He is precious. 1 Peter 2:6-7 How Much Do You Value Christ? One has said that the value of an object is based on what one is willing to pay. We read in the above verse, that for those of us who love the Lord, He indeed is precious. But we should ask, “How precious?” Judas walked with the Lord for over three years. They had eaten together, they went to the temple together, and he was the Lord’s companion. What was Judas’s valuation of...More Tuesday, September 21, 2021 Sharpen Your Own Tools (2) They had a file for the mattocks, and for the coulters, and for the forks, and for the axes, and to sharpen the goads. The charge for a sharpening was a pim for the plowshares, the mattocks, the forks, and the axes, and to set the points of the goads. 1 Samuel 13:21; 1 Samuel 13:21 Sharpen Your Own Tools (2) Yesterday we gained a helpful spiritual lesson from 1 Samuel 13:19-22, which shows the danger of a wrong alliance with the religious world. But it’s also good to consider this passage for another moment in order to deepen our faith in the reliability of the...More Monday, September 20, 2021 Sharpen Your Own Tools (1) Now there was no blacksmith to be found throughout all the land of Israel, for the Philistines said, “Lest the Hebrews make swords or spears.” But all the Israelites would go down to the Philistines to sharpen each man’s plowshare, his mattock, his ax, and his sickle … So it came about, on the day of battle, that there was neither sword nor spear found in the hand of any of the people who were with Saul and Jonathan. 1 Samuel 13:19-22 Sharpen Your Own Tools (1) During Saul’s reign, the Philistines were a formidable enemy of Israel, yet they did not always engage in direct attacks. In the...More Sunday, September 19, 2021 The Blood of Christ (4)—To Purchase the Church The Assembly of God, which He has purchased with the blood of His own. Acts 20:28 The Blood of Christ (4)—To Purchase the Church Our verse today shows us the purchase price for God’s Assembly. In the parable of the merchant man seeking fine pearls, we find the merchant selling all that he had to acquire that one pearl (Mt. 13:45-46). This shows us, in parable form, what it cost the Lord Jesus to purchase the Church. He had to give all: “Christ also loved the Assembly, and has delivered Himself up for it” (Eph. 5:25). However, in our verse above, we find what it cost God...More Saturday, September 18, 2021 Lessons on Asa (1)—Making Good Use of Quiet Times [Asa] said to Judah, “Let us build these cities and make walls around them, and towers, gates, and bars, while the land is yet before us, because we have sought the Lord our God; we have sought Him, and He has given us rest on every side.” So they built and prospered. 2 Chronicles 14:7 Lessons on Asa (1)—Making Good Use of Quiet Times We see a good attitude in Asa right at the beginning of his reign, as the land was quiet for ten years. He used that time to put things in order. First of all, he removed what is against the Lord, the altars of the foreign gods and the high places, which were...More Friday, September 17, 2021 The Christian Under Human Government (2) “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s” … They marveled, and left Him and went their way. Matthew 22:21-22 The Christian Under Human Government (2) A scientist from a country with a very large population attended a conference in the West. He said something like this: “In the country I come from, one can oppose Darwin’s evolutionism but cannot speak out against the government. In your country, however, one can freely speak against the government, but not against evolutionism.” Defying Darwinism leads to negative publicity, even...More Thursday, September 16, 2021 The Consequences of Covetousness Achan answered Joshua and said, “Indeed I have sinned against the Lord God of Israel, and this is what I have done: When I saw among the spoils a beautiful Babylonian garment, two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold weighing fifty shekels, I coveted them and took them. And there they are, hidden in the earth in the midst of my tent, with the silver under it.” Joshua 7:20-21 The Consequences of Covetousness Jericho was the first city to resist the Israelites when they crossed the Jordan to conquer the land of Canaan. God gave Joshua explicit directions how this city was to be...More Wednesday, September 15, 2021 The Deceitfulness of Sin and Its Antidote But encourage yourselves each day … that none of you be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin. Hebrews 3:13 The Deceitfulness of Sin and Its Antidote The Bible characterizes the nature of sin in various ways. One of the most descriptive, and perhaps most telling upon our conscience, is the characterization of sin as being “deceitful.” Sin is deceitful in that it makes promises it cannot keep. It holds out the prospect of pleasure, fulfillment, and contentment, but in the end it betrays its promise and bitterly disappoints. The “old man” is corrupted by “deceitful lusts”...More Tuesday, September 14, 2021 Defeating the Enemy’s Schemes Against the Christian Family We do not wrestle against flesh and blood … Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Ephesians 6:12-13 Defeating the Enemy’s Schemes Against the Christian Family If ever there is a day when people need to rise up in the power of His might to stand against the enemy, it is today. Today, the individual believer is under attack, the family is under attack, the assembly is under attack—anywhere the name of Jesus Christ is mentioned in truth, there will be an attack. But thanks be to God, His word gives counsel in...More Monday, September 13, 2021 Diligence in Prayer For You, Lord, have not forsaken those who seek You. Psalm 9:10 Diligence in Prayer Diligence in prayer is the secret of eminent holiness. Without question there is a vast difference among true Christians. There is an immense gap between the greatest and the weakest in the army of God. They are all fighting the same good fight, but how much more valiantly some fight than others! They are all doing the Lord’s work, but how much more some do than others! They are all light in the Lord, but how much more brightly some shine than others! They are all running the same race, but how much...More Sunday, September 12, 2021 The Blood of Christ (3)—Blood and Water But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced His side, and forthwith came there out blood and water. John 19:34 The Blood of Christ (3)—Blood and Water What is the significance of the blood and water which came from our Savior’s side? It is often said, the blood was for judicial cleansing and the water was for moral cleansing. But what does this mean? God is holy and must judge sins, and so we read that “the wages of sin is death” (Rom. 6:23). What could answer to God’s judicial claims? Already in the Old Testament it was said, “it is the blood that maketh atonement for the...More Saturday, September 11, 2021 Be Patient—The Lord Is Coming Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. James 5:7 Be Patient—The Lord Is Coming James encourages the oppressed brethren to be patient and wait for the coming of the Lord. Their deliverance would come and their patience be rewarded. Let us not forget that like the farmer who waits for the precious fruit of the earth, the Lord waits patiently to gather His precious fruit. The fruit is the fruit of “the labor of His soul” (Isa. 53:11). He...More Friday, September 10, 2021 Eternal Security of the Believer My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. John 10:27-28 Eternal Security of the Believer The Lord Jesus speaks of His sheep and presents absolute facts concerning them. Treasuring these truths in our hearts will bring much encouragement and peace. My sheep hear My voice. All who have been redeemed by the precious blood of Christ have heard His invitation to come unto Him. His voice is of most vital value to them; other voices mean nothing. “He calls His own...More Thursday, September 9, 2021 Lessons on Abijah (3)—God Delivers Those Who Call to Him When Judah looked around, to their surprise the battle line was at both front and rear; and they cried out to the Lord, and the priests sounded the trumpets. Then the men of Judah gave a shout; and as the men of Judah shouted, it happened that God struck Jeroboam and all Israel before Abijah and Judah. 2 Chronicles 13:14-15 Lessons on Abijah (3)—God Delivers Those Who Call to Him It is interesting to see how Abijah and Judah were saved in the war against Jeroboam. Before the belligerents entered into action, Abijah was bragging about how well they served God and how God had given the kingdom of...More Wednesday, September 8, 2021 The Christian Under Human Government (1) Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. Romans 13:1 The Christian Under Human Government (1) Living as a Christian in today’s world involves many challenges. One day, however, the Lord Jesus will set up His reign of peace in Israel and rule the whole universe. Those challenges will then no longer exist because every knee will bow to Him and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord (Phil. 2:10). In the meantime, however, all Christians are facing the enemy, under whatever government they may live. Even a government that is called “Christian” is nonetheless under the prince...More Tuesday, September 7, 2021 The Inspired Book I understand more than the aged, because I have observed Thy precepts. Psalm 119:100 The Inspired Book The story is told of a school principal retiring after many years of faithful service and being asked, “How do you plan to spend your retirement years?” Her prompt reply, “In reading again the great classics.” How infinitely better if she would rather devote her remaining years to the study of the Scriptures! Man’s will, by and large, has produced the great classics; God’s skill has produced His written Word. Man’s wisdom permeates the great classics; God’s wisdom permeates His...More Monday, September 6, 2021 Consequences of Following Wrong Advice To the woman He said: “I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception; in pain you shall bring forth children; your desire shall be for your husband, and he shall rule over you.” Then to Adam He said … “Cursed is the ground for your sake; in toil you shall eat of it all the days of your life. Both thorns and thistles it shall bring forth for you, and you shall eat the herb of the field. In the sweat of your face you shall eat bread till you return to the ground.” Genesis 3:16-19 Consequences of Following Wrong Advice God had graciously provided our first parents with a delicious...More Sunday, September 5, 2021 The Blood of Christ (2)—Eating His Flesh and Blood Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink His blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth My flesh and drinketh My blood, hath eternal life. John 6:53-54 The Blood of Christ (2)—Eating His Flesh and Blood This wonderful chapter in John’s Gospel begins with the fact that the Passover was at hand. After feeding the multitude, the Lord then speaks of Himself as the bread of life. The bread of life would speak of the incarnation of the Son of God. However, His incarnation—the Son of God becoming Man—while a wonderful fact, could not in itself save us. His death was also...More Saturday, September 4, 2021 My Helper (2) The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. Psalm 121:8 My Helper (2) The soul that looks to the Lord for help can count upon the unfailing care of the Lord in all circumstances. “Going” and “coming” speak of the changing circumstances that mark a world of unrest. In the gospel day, the Lord could say to His disciples, “Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest awhile: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat” (Mk. 6:31). In His compassionate care the Lord will give us times...More Friday, September 3, 2021 My Helper (1) I lift up mine eyes unto the mountains: whence shall my help come? My help cometh from Jehovah, who made the heavens and the earth. Psalm 121:1-2 My Helper (1) In this beautiful psalm we have the experiences of a believer who, in the midst of trials, finds in the Lord his help and unfailing resource. The God-fearing man finds himself faced with trials and difficulties, but realizes that in himself he has no power to meet the circumstances. He needs help. The greatest source of weakness in the presence of trial is often the self-confidence that leads us to think we can meet the trial in...More Thursday, September 2, 2021 The Importance of Godly Elders Paul, a bondservant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect and the acknowledgment of the truth which accords with godliness … To Titus, a true son in our common faith. Titus 1:1, 4 The Importance of Godly Elders To find the setting for this epistle, we travel to Crete, a large island in the Mediterranean Sea. There we find an assembly of believers formed during Paul’s visit, and we find Titus, who had been left there to establish them in the life and walk of a believer. Paul wrote this letter to Titus, his son in the faith, to guide him in this enormous...More Wednesday, September 1, 2021 The Blood of Christ (1) — Introduction And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you. Exodus 12:13 The Blood of Christ (1) — Introduction We would like to consider some of the scriptures that speak of the blood of Christ and its value for God and for us. The first mention of blood in the Word of God is Abel’s blood, which cried out for vengeance because of Cain murdering him. Hebrews 12:24 tells us that the blood of the Lord Jesus speaks of “better things” than the blood of Abel. Abel’s blood cried out for vengeance; the precious blood of our Lord cries...More Tuesday, August 31, 2021 Knowing God’s Will (2) I will bring the blind by a way they did not know; I will lead them in paths they have not known. I will make darkness light before them, and crooked places straight. Isaiah 42:16 Knowing God’s Will (2) God has promised that He will guide us in our ways. Psalm 23 shows the wonderful care of the Shepherd. He leads and guides them, is with them in dangerous places, and provides for all their needs. Likewise, He will do this for us too. If we do not have peace in our hearts, it would indicate something is not His will for us. If we cannot go forward in faith, then it is not according...More Monday, August 30, 2021 Knowing God’s Will (1) Come now, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit”; whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. Instead you ought to say, “If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.” James 4:13-15 Knowing God’s Will (1) We are exhorted in these and other verses to know the Lord’s will before doing something. So the question arises: How do we know His will? There are several principles that will help us with...More Sunday, August 29, 2021 Doxologies of the New Testament (17)—Worship God and the Lamb All the angels stood around the throne and the elders and the four living creatures, and fell on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, saying: “Amen! Blessing and glory and wisdom, thanksgiving and honor and power and might, be to our God forever and ever. Amen.” Revelation 7:11-12 Doxologies of the New Testament (17)—Worship God and the Lamb This is the final doxology of the Bible. It is in response to a vision of “a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues.” This white-robed company stood before the throne and before the Lamb...More Saturday, August 28, 2021 I Saw You Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!” Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” John 1:47-48 I Saw You We find a beautiful commendation of Nathanael in these words of the Lord Jesus: “An Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!” Would we not also desire such a commendation from Him? Nathanael was puzzled, however, that the Lord spoke this way about him, as though He really knew him; and then the Lord said...More Friday, August 27, 2021 Lessons on Abijah (2)—Spiritual Life: Appearances and Reality Abijah stood on Mount Zemaraim … and said, “Hear me, Jeroboam and all Israel … Have you not cast out the priests of the Lord, the sons of Aaron, and the Levites, and made for yourselves priests … of things that are not gods? But as for us, the Lord is our God, and we have not forsaken Him; and the priests who minister to the Lord are the sons of Aaron, and the Levites attend to their duties.” 2 Chronicles 13:4, 9-10 Lessons on Abijah (2)—Spiritual Life: Appearances and Reality As Abijah is about to make war against Israel, he rightly reminds them about Jeroboam’s sin: they turned...More Thursday, August 26, 2021 Aquila and Priscilla, Helpers of Paul When Aquila and Priscilla heard [Apollos], they took him aside and explained to him the way of God more accurately. Greet Priscilla and Aquila, my fellow workers in Christ Jesus, who risked their own necks for my life, to whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Likewise greet the church that is in their house. Acts 18:26; Romans 16:3-5 Aquila and Priscilla, Helpers of Paul We first meet this model couple in Acts 18:1-3 when Paul, coming to Corinth, finds them there and stays with them. Like him, they were Jews and tentmakers. They had been expelled...More Wednesday, August 25, 2021 “Blessed” in the Psalms (24)—Earthly and Heavenly Blessings Blessed are you, O land, when your king is the son of nobles, and your princes feast at the proper time—for strength and not for drunkenness! Ecclesiastes 10:17 “Blessed” in the Psalms (24)—Earthly and Heavenly Blessings One who walks in the right path with God is called blessed (Ps. 1). In Hebrew, the words right, or upright, and blessed are closely linked together. They occur nine times in Proverbs and describe the world to come as marked by justice (Prov. 3:13; 8:32, 34; 14:21; 16:20; 20:7; 28:14; 29:18; 31:28). The above verse is from the fourth book...More Tuesday, August 24, 2021 God’s Love Is Immutable Jehovah thy God is in thy midst, a Mighty One that will save: He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love; He will exult over thee with singing. Zephaniah 3:17 God’s Love Is Immutable Here we have a wondrous thought: that of God resting in His love, a love not for sinless angels but for fallen, redeemed men! The word implies the rest of someone after the completion of some arduous work. He rested at creation, but that rest is but a feeble picture of His complacent rest and rejoicing over one new-born, ransomed soul. There is a beautiful sequence in this verse—it...More Monday, August 23, 2021 Yielded to Christ The soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. 1 Samuel 18:1 Yielded to Christ We can imagine that as David went to meet Goliath, and as Goliath advanced to meet David, the armies on both sides of the valley would be watching breathlessly; so much depended on the outcome. Jonathan was one of those who on Israel’s side watched while David went to meet the giant. Even he wouldn’t dare to face Goliath. David’s victory was really, as it were, Jonathan’s deliverance. From that time on, Jonathan really loved David. Twice we read that he “loved him...More Sunday, August 22, 2021 Doxologies of the New Testament (16)—Loves Us and Washed Us To Him who loves us, and has washed us from our sins in His blood, and made us a kingdom, priests to His God and Father: to Him be the glory and the might to the ages of ages. Amen. Revelation 1:5-6 Doxologies of the New Testament (16)—Loves Us and Washed Us Revelation is full of prophetic details, but that is not what it is about. Its subject is Jesus Christ revealed as the rightful heir and ruler of all things. The seven-sealed scroll will be placed in the hand of the Lamb by God the Father (Rev. 5:1-7; cf. Ps. 2:8-9). This scroll contains the revelation of God’s purpose and counsel...More Saturday, August 21, 2021 Set Up Your Banner—Start Rejoicing Today We will triumph in Thy salvation, and in the name of our God will we set up our banners. Psalm 20:5 Set Up Your Banner—Start Rejoicing Today The Father has all delight in Christ as the perfect expression of His love—of all that life is—and we enter into His delight. What a God! Not contented to be Himself light and love in His own glory, He has presented light and love and glory to us in His Son. Has the delight and the blessedness of fellowship with Him up there revealed to us the poverty of all down here? Are we a heavenly people? Have we heavenly stores laid up in Christ? Why...More Friday, August 20, 2021 Thoughts on Psalm 34 Come, you children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the Lord. Who is the man who desires life, and loves many days, that he may see good? Keep your tongue from evil, and your lips from speaking deceit. Depart from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry. The face of the Lord is against those who do evil. Psalm 34:11-16 Thoughts on Psalm 34 This passage teaches us the connection between good words and good days. We enjoy the good blessings of God as we keep our tongues from evil and deceit. It follows that...More Thursday, August 19, 2021 Lessons on Abijah (1)—Walking Humbly With God Abijah stood on Mount Zemaraim … and said, “Hear me, Jeroboam and all Israel: Should you not know that the Lord God of Israel gave the dominion over Israel to David forever, to him and his sons, by a covenant of salt?” 2 Chronicles 13:4-5 Lessons on Abijah (1)—Walking Humbly With God The only thing we read about the three-year reign of Abijah is that he made war with Jeroboam. It appears that he was the one initiating it, and he gave a discourse at the outset. We see at the beginning of his speech that Abijah had high pretensions concerning the kingdom of Israel and presents facts in a way...More Wednesday, August 18, 2021 Godly Examples of Prayer The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. James 5:16 Godly Examples of Prayer There are wonderful examples in Scripture of the power of prayer. Nothing seems to be too great, too hard, or too difficult for prayer to do. It has obtained things that seemed impossible and out of reach. It has won victories over fire, air, earth, and water. Prayer opened the Red Sea. Prayer brought water from the rock and bread from heaven. Prayer made the sun stand still. Prayer brought fire from the sky on Elijah’s sacrifice. Prayer turned the counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness. Prayer...More Tuesday, August 17, 2021 “Blessed” in the Psalms (23)—Waiting for the Ultimate Blessing From the time that the regular sacrifice is abolished, and the abomination of desolation is set up, there will be 1,290 days. How blessed is he who keeps waiting and attains to the 1,335 days! Daniel 12:11-12 “Blessed” in the Psalms (23)—Waiting for the Ultimate Blessing In the Hebrew Bible, the Book of Daniel is not classed along with the “Prophets” but is part of what is called “the Writings,” which includes Psalms, Proverbs, and the Song of Solomon. Together, they are sometimes referred to as “Psalms” (Lk. 24:44)—distinct from Moses and the Prophets. When Peter, Paul,...More Monday, August 16, 2021 Fervor in Serving the Lord Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die. 2 Timothy 1:6; Revelation 3:2 Fervor in Serving the Lord Paul, in speaking to Timothy in the verse above, was telling him to stir up what he already had in him, that is, the gift of God. God has accomplished the work of salvation, and there is nothing you need to do other than believe and put your trust in that finished work. As a Christian, this is the basis for all that follows. With that said, our service for God ought to be a voluntary...More Sunday, August 15, 2021 Doxologies of the New Testament (15)—Able to Keep Us Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling, and to make you stand in the presence of His glory blameless with great joy, to the only God our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion and authority, before all time and now and forever. Amen. Jude 24-25 Doxologies of the New Testament (15)—Able to Keep Us The main theme of the Epistle of Jude is the apostasy of the last days. Jude traces this apostasy from its very beginning when it crept in (v. 4) right up to its judgment at the coming of the Lord with all His saints (v. 14). Paul said the same thing when he wrote...More Saturday, August 14, 2021 King of Peace Melchisedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. And He was priest of the Most High God. Genesis 14:18 King of Peace Abram’s nephew Lot had chosen the part of the land that was pleasant to view, had the best feeding ground, and was near a certain city: Sodom. A king from a distant land had begun to collect taxes from Sodom and four surrounding cities. This continued for twelve years until the people of these five cities rebelled. The distant king, not to be put off, mounted an army from his and three of his allies’ cities. In the ensuing battle, the rebellion was squashed and the people...More Friday, August 13, 2021 Titus, Helper of Paul We urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well … But thanks be to God who puts the same earnest care for you into the heart of Titus. For he not only accepted the exhortation, but being more diligent, he went to you of his own accord. Titus, a true son in our common faith … I left you in Crete, that you should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city as I commanded you. 2 Corinthians 8:6, 16-17; Titus 1:4-5 Titus, Helper of Paul From the way Paul addresses Titus, and the references he makes in Galatians 2,...More Thursday, August 12, 2021 A Merry Heart A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones. Proverbs 17:22 A Merry Heart Whenever I read this verse I think of a very special brother whose life overflowed with the joy of the Lord. Now with the One whom he loved and served, his life yet speaks. My whole family still remembers the fragrance of that home where we sometimes stayed. Mostly we remember the contagion of his merry heart. What produces such a merry heart? Why do the lives of some saints bubble over with the joy of the Lord while others rattle harshly with the dry bones of a broken spirit?...More Wednesday, August 11, 2021 What Is Fasting? In fastings often. 2 Corinthians 11:27 What Is Fasting? Over the years I’m sure most of us have heard of those who fasted. Often we hear of people fasting in protest over something, refusing to eat until the wrong was made right. But what does the Bible say about fasting? There are many instances of those who fasted in the Bible. Moses fasted on Mount Sinai (Ex. 34:28). Hannah fasted when she wanted a son from God (1 Sam. 1:7). David fasted on several occasions (e.g. 2 Sam. 1:12; 12:22). The entire nation of Israel fasted on the Day of Atonement (Lev. 23:27). Many...More Tuesday, August 10, 2021 Caring for Our Brethren’s Spiritual Welfare Thou shalt not see thy brother’s ox or his sheep go astray, and hide thyself from them: thou shalt in any case bring them back unto thy brother. And if thy brother be not near unto thee, and thou know him not, then thou shalt bring it unto thy house, and it shall be with thee until thy brother seek after it, and thou shalt restore it unto him. And so shalt thou do with his ass. Deuteronomy 22:1-3 Caring for Our Brethren’s Spiritual Welfare The Lord cares for all His people. He paid the supreme price of shedding His precious blood to redeem them, and He will not let them go. He knows all the...More Monday, August 9, 2021 God, and Not Our Enemies, Is the Author of Our Circumstances Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for am I in the place of God? But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive. Thou couldest have no power at all against Me, except it were given Thee from above. Genesis 50:19-20; John 19:11 God, and Not Our Enemies, Is the Author of Our Circumstances What comfort indeed, when man’s arrows painfully strike, to know that there is One who works all things to our good and blessing! And how important that we truly forgive! For therein is the evidence that we...More Sunday, August 8, 2021 Doxologies of the New Testament (14)—Our Lord and Savior But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. 2 Peter 3:18 Doxologies of the New Testament (14)—Our Lord and Savior Both of the apostle Peter’s epistles end with a doxology, and they are both centered upon the subject of grace. This was something Peter knew about personally, having known not only the Lord’s saving grace but also His restoring grace. This second epistle was written in view of the apostle Peter’s imminent death through martyrdom (2 Pet. 1:13-15). It has a solemn character in that...More Wednesday, May 19, 2021 Paul’s Prayer for the Saints (1) We also, from the day we heard of your faith and love, do not cease praying and asking for you, to the end that ye may be filled with the full knowledge of His will, in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, so as to walk worthily of the Lord unto all well-pleasing, bearing fruit in every good work, and growing by the true knowledge of God; strengthened with all power according to the might of His glory unto all endurance and longsuffering with joy; giving thanks to the Father. Colossians 1:9–12 JND Paul’s Prayer for the Saints (1) Paul was a man of prayer, and some of his prayers have been...More Sunday, April 11, 2021 The Authority of Christ All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Matthew 28:18 NKJV The Authority of Christ Authority is the right to exercise power. History has borne out the truth of what the 18th-century British politician, Lord Acton, said: “Power tends to corrupt; and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” This has been the track record of emperors and kings. The more power they acquire, the less their sense of morality. Jesus rode into Jerusalem as the King of Israel. He began by cleansing the temple, thus securing God’s rights. But the scribes and Pharisees confronted Him by...More

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