On a Wednesday night during service, one of the members of our local Church, Brother Cartwright, stood and told something that happened to him on election night as he and his wife worked at a polling precinct helping with the election. He felt strongly everyone at church should hear this story and think about it as it relates spiritually. I believe it is a lesson not just for our local congregation, but for us all...
Too Late
From a story by Ben Cartwright, Mtn. View, AR
Tuesday, November 4, 2008 two young ladies came in to vote at a rural polling place in Stone County, Arkansas. It was 7:32 p.m. Two minutes past closing time. They wanted to participate, but it was too late. The electronic ballot machine had shut off automatically at the appointed time (without man’s intervention) and the machine had begun counting the votes of the voters (again without man’s intervention). There wasn’t anything the precinct workers could do about it, nothing that could be done to stop it, because it was too late. The sad thing was that the girls had been at home all day long doing nothing. They COULD have gotten out and voted earlier. They had ample opportunity, even during early voting in the weeks prior to the election. Regardless...it was now 7:32 p.m. and it was too late!
Jesus is coming for a people whose names are recorded in the Book of Life, who have made themselves ready BEFORE His appearing. Someday SOON, without man preventing it, the TIME for salvation will be past and the rapture will upon us. At that time, people will wish they had presented themselves to the Lord, repented and accepted salvation… made a change while there was still time, but THEN it will be too late.
Have YOU made preparations? Look around you...Time is at hand! Do you see the signs...they are unmistakeable. Don't allow the devil to trick you into thinking you have all the time in the world. Soon, it will be TOO LATE…
Matthew 25:1-13, “Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out. But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us. But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not. Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.”
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Saturday, July 30, 2011
Strong Enough
Life comes at us in so many ways sometimes that we feel like we can't take it anymore. Our little worlds sometimes crash all around us and cause more pain than we think we can bear. The weight of the world is on our shoulders at times like heavy burdens that can hardly be carried and certainly not lifted. We all go through trials and tests. We all experience sad times, mad times, tired times. Storms hit everyone- not just a select people... EVERYONE.
[John 16:33] These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
God sees all this happen. He knows that it makes us weak and that we can hardly stand it. God sees our pain and suffering. Why then, does He allow us to go through the things that make us miserable?
The answer can be summed up in this quote:
"Smooth seas don't make skillful sailors."
Sometimes God wants us to hit rock bottom, because that is when we begin to rely on Him. He breaks us down to the point that we draw closer to Him. Don't fight the flow, just give in to the Lord. If we didn't go through things, we wouldn't learn, grow, strengthen. We must endure the pain, in order to gain. Think of body builders. They work out and lift weights in order to get bigger in the end. When they do that strenuous exercise it tears the muscles down. Whenever they stop and give a day or so to rest, the muscles heal and come back larger and stronger than before. BUT remember, it had to get torn down before it could get built back up.
Though we do face these times of weakness, He won't give us more than we can take.
[1 Cor. 10:13] There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
So then, where can we find strength? Christ. You are right whenever you think that you can't handle it. You can't do it.. alone. You must rely on God and He will build you up through every trial and storm you face. Let Him be your strength, because when we are weak He is strong.
[Phil 4:13] I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
-[Destiny Turner]
[John 16:33] These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.
God sees all this happen. He knows that it makes us weak and that we can hardly stand it. God sees our pain and suffering. Why then, does He allow us to go through the things that make us miserable?
The answer can be summed up in this quote:
"Smooth seas don't make skillful sailors."
Sometimes God wants us to hit rock bottom, because that is when we begin to rely on Him. He breaks us down to the point that we draw closer to Him. Don't fight the flow, just give in to the Lord. If we didn't go through things, we wouldn't learn, grow, strengthen. We must endure the pain, in order to gain. Think of body builders. They work out and lift weights in order to get bigger in the end. When they do that strenuous exercise it tears the muscles down. Whenever they stop and give a day or so to rest, the muscles heal and come back larger and stronger than before. BUT remember, it had to get torn down before it could get built back up.
Though we do face these times of weakness, He won't give us more than we can take.
[1 Cor. 10:13] There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
So then, where can we find strength? Christ. You are right whenever you think that you can't handle it. You can't do it.. alone. You must rely on God and He will build you up through every trial and storm you face. Let Him be your strength, because when we are weak He is strong.
[Phil 4:13] I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
-[Destiny Turner]
Friday, July 29, 2011
My Prince of Peace
My pastor Brother Farthing preached a message not long ago that taught this concept.
We can have peace in the valley IF we are walking with the Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
We can have peace in the storm IF we are trusting in the peacemaker.
Mark 4:39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
Don't tell God how big your storm is, tell that storm how big your God is. (:
-Destiny Turner
We can have peace in the valley IF we are walking with the Prince of Peace.
Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
We can have peace in the storm IF we are trusting in the peacemaker.
Mark 4:39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.
Don't tell God how big your storm is, tell that storm how big your God is. (:
-Destiny Turner
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Someone Worth Dying For
[Romans 5:8] But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
Sometimes we get so caught up in our everyday lives, the hustle and bustle, busyness, chaos, and cares of this world that we forget why we are here in the first place. We forget how we are even able to live a life of holiness in hopes of reaching Heaven after this life. Lord, never let us forget what you did on the cross for us.
Matthew 27:
[22] Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified.
[23] And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified.
[24] When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it.
[25] Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.
[26] Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.
[27] Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers.
[28] And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.
[29] And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!
[30] And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head.
[31] And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him.
[32] And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross.
[33] And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull,
[34] They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.
[35] And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.
[36] And sitting down they watched him there;
[37] And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
Regardless of the mistakes we have made, the past life we have lived, or the times in the future that we may fall, Jesus died for each and every one of us in place of all of our sins. Many times Satan tries to convice us that we are the exception to the rule- that we are "too far gone" or "too far out of reach" for God's grace. Never believe that. We are ALL undeserving of the price that Jesus paid for us; however, we ALL received the precious gift. No sin is too big or too small to be covered by the blood of Christ.
[1John 4:10] Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Why did He die this painful death for us? It is a simple thought that we learn as a child, but seem to forget the concept as we grow up and make mistakes. Remember singing this: "Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. The Bible tells me so." ?
Then why do we let ourselves get to the point of depression? Feeling unloved, unworthy, undeserving, unable to reach grace or forgiveness from our past?
Because of our sins, we are not worthy of Jesus' great love for us- but He did it anyways. He found us all to be someone worth dying for!
[Revelations 1:5] And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,
Let go of what you've done and give in to Jesus who can wash away all that we've done.
Yes, He loves you... the Bible tells you so. :)
Sometimes we get so caught up in our everyday lives, the hustle and bustle, busyness, chaos, and cares of this world that we forget why we are here in the first place. We forget how we are even able to live a life of holiness in hopes of reaching Heaven after this life. Lord, never let us forget what you did on the cross for us.
Matthew 27:
[22] Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus which is called Christ? They all say unto him, Let him be crucified.
[23] And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done? But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified.
[24] When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood of this just person: see ye to it.
[25] Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on us, and on our children.
[26] Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.
[27] Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the common hall, and gathered unto him the whole band of soldiers.
[28] And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.
[29] And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail, King of the Jews!
[30] And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote him on the head.
[31] And after that they had mocked him, they took the robe off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him.
[32] And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they compelled to bear his cross.
[33] And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull,
[34] They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.
[35] And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.
[36] And sitting down they watched him there;
[37] And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
Regardless of the mistakes we have made, the past life we have lived, or the times in the future that we may fall, Jesus died for each and every one of us in place of all of our sins. Many times Satan tries to convice us that we are the exception to the rule- that we are "too far gone" or "too far out of reach" for God's grace. Never believe that. We are ALL undeserving of the price that Jesus paid for us; however, we ALL received the precious gift. No sin is too big or too small to be covered by the blood of Christ.
[1John 4:10] Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
Why did He die this painful death for us? It is a simple thought that we learn as a child, but seem to forget the concept as we grow up and make mistakes. Remember singing this: "Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. Yes, Jesus loves me. The Bible tells me so." ?
Then why do we let ourselves get to the point of depression? Feeling unloved, unworthy, undeserving, unable to reach grace or forgiveness from our past?
Because of our sins, we are not worthy of Jesus' great love for us- but He did it anyways. He found us all to be someone worth dying for!
[Revelations 1:5] And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,
Let go of what you've done and give in to Jesus who can wash away all that we've done.
Yes, He loves you... the Bible tells you so. :)
-[Destiny Turner]
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Delighting to Do the Will of the Lord
[[2 Chronicles 7:14]] If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.
God makes many promises to His people throughout the Bible. In this particular verse, He says that if His people will humble themselves, pray, seek his face, and turn from their wicked ways, then He WILL hear and forgive. It doesn't say that he'll hear what he wants, might hear, or will only hear rich people. It says He WILL hear ALL of us if we do what he commands. Isn't that exciting? J
I found my new favorite song by accident. I put the words on here not only because I like them, but they're powerful. It's called "I Desire." What do we desire? [[Psalm 37:4]] Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. We should only desire things that God would find pleasing, and by delighting ourselves in the Lord, he will provide for us.
[[Psalm 40:8]] I delight to do they will, O my God; yea, thy law is within my heart. How many of us go to church "because our parents make us” or “because it is expected”? How many of us find it a chore to read the Bible and pray daily? None of us should! We should be delighted to our Savior's will.
“I Desire”
Verse 1Here in this world that you've designed
From the rolling plains to the oceans
Deep and wide
Where are the words that can say what's
In my heart
All that I am is amazed by who you are
ChorusThe one thing I desire
Is just to know you moreTo live a life that moves and breathes
And loves to bring you joy.
So fill me with a fire
That burns away my doubts and all my fears
Into a place where you are all I hear
From the rolling plains to the oceans
Deep and wide
Where are the words that can say what's
In my heart
All that I am is amazed by who you are
ChorusThe one thing I desire
Is just to know you moreTo live a life that moves and breathes
And loves to bring you joy.
So fill me with a fire
That burns away my doubts and all my fears
Into a place where you are all I hear
It's the one thing I desire
To do what you require
Is the one thing I desire
Is the one thing I desire
Verse 2
To love when I'd rather turn away
To give when I'm more resigned to take
To reach out a hand to someone who
Feels alone
The way you reached for me
When there seemed to be no hope
To love when I'd rather turn away
To give when I'm more resigned to take
To reach out a hand to someone who
Feels alone
The way you reached for me
When there seemed to be no hope
Lord, help us to desire pure and holy things…to delight in doing Your will...and to spread Your Word.
Cindi’s email is cindi_lou2010@yahoo.com if you would like to contact her.
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Mercy Made the Way
Psalms 25:7 Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to thy mercy remember thou me for thy goodness' sake, O LORD.
Aren't we thankful that God had mercy on us?
Bad news- We have all failed God and sinned. None of us deserve grace or another chance.
Good news- We serve a God who is merciful and faithful to forgive.
Read the lyrics to the chorus of one of my favorite songs Mercy Walked In.
Mercy walked in and pleaded my case
Called to the stand: God's saving grace
The blood was presented that covered my sin
Forgiven when mercy walked in
Haven't we all been here? In a courtroom with God as our judge and we have no defense to justify why we have sinned? But praise the Lord that mercy covers our case.
Even though we strive for perfection, we may fall at times but Gods grace is there to dust us off and put us back on the right path.
Ephesians 2:4,5
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)
Thank you Lord for your everlasting mercy.
Aren't we thankful that God had mercy on us?
Bad news- We have all failed God and sinned. None of us deserve grace or another chance.
Good news- We serve a God who is merciful and faithful to forgive.
Read the lyrics to the chorus of one of my favorite songs Mercy Walked In.
Mercy walked in and pleaded my case
Called to the stand: God's saving grace
The blood was presented that covered my sin
Forgiven when mercy walked in
Haven't we all been here? In a courtroom with God as our judge and we have no defense to justify why we have sinned? But praise the Lord that mercy covers our case.
Even though we strive for perfection, we may fall at times but Gods grace is there to dust us off and put us back on the right path.
Ephesians 2:4,5
But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)
Thank you Lord for your everlasting mercy.
Monday, July 25, 2011
Wait on the Lord
[Romans 8:25] But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.
[Hebrews 10:36] For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.
Sometimes we are like Archie, and get discouraged when we don't see immediate results. We pray and work and fast and remain faithful, and sometimes still don't see the answer. Fear not, the answer is on its way. God's timing is perfect. Ours isn't. Even more so, God may be testing our faith to see how true we really are. If we give up after a short period of time, then how can we expect God to give us what we want? We certainly cannot.
Maybe you have a small congregation at your local church and have been praying for years for growth- Don't give up. If you leave, you are not only stopping growth, but creating shrinkage.
Maybe you have unsaved parents, childrens, siblings, etc.- Don't give up. You may be the light that leads them to Christ.
Maybe you are sick in body and need healing- Don't give up. Your healing is on its way whether on this earth or not. You will receive a new body in Heaven.
That list can go on and on. You know your need and so does God. Be patient. Be faithful. He will bring the promise.
[Psalms 27:14] Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
-[Destiny Turner]
Archie loved apples. He thought they were sweet.
He thought apples were always a wonderful treat.
He ate apples each day when he went out to play,
but the part in the middle, he just threw away.
He thought apples were always a wonderful treat.
He ate apples each day when he went out to play,
but the part in the middle, he just threw away.
Then one day as he ate an apple to the core,
he caught sight of a seed, wondering what it was for.
If he planted a seed, it just might grow a tree.
Archie thought, "what a wonderful thing that would be."
he caught sight of a seed, wondering what it was for.
If he planted a seed, it just might grow a tree.
Archie thought, "what a wonderful thing that would be."
So he planted the seed in a hole, core and all.
He had faith it would grow, even though it was small.
With a shovel he covered the core with a mound,
taking care of the seed that was under the ground.
He had faith it would grow, even though it was small.
With a shovel he covered the core with a mound,
taking care of the seed that was under the ground.
He brought water each day in a watering can.
He did his very best to make good on his plan.
Every day, he returned with the hope he would see
a small sign of new growth from the seed to a tree.
He did his very best to make good on his plan.
Every day, he returned with the hope he would see
a small sign of new growth from the seed to a tree.
But the sign did not come and as time drifted by
Archie started to doubt whether he should still try.
There was no hint of green, not the tiniest leaf.
Was an apple tree really worth all of the grief?
Archie started to doubt whether he should still try.
There was no hint of green, not the tiniest leaf.
Was an apple tree really worth all of the grief?
He was ready to quit if it just would not grow.
For so long he had watered that seed down below.
Archie went to his father to ask what to do,
and his dad told him something that he never knew.
For so long he had watered that seed down below.
Archie went to his father to ask what to do,
and his dad told him something that he never knew.
He said, "sometimes things don't go the way that we plan.
Sometimes people give up when they don't think they can.
But to those who keep trying, when no one else will,
there are dreams to achieve and great hopes to fulfill."
Sometimes people give up when they don't think they can.
But to those who keep trying, when no one else will,
there are dreams to achieve and great hopes to fulfill."
The words struck Archie's mind and he knew they were true.
He would try to be patient and keep trying too.
Archie came every day without fail to the seed.
He brought water and tended its every need.
He would try to be patient and keep trying too.
Archie came every day without fail to the seed.
He brought water and tended its every need.
Then one day like the sun breaking out from a storm
a green leaf sprouted up from the ground in true form.
Reaching into the sky as if saying hello
the new tree met the one who allowed it to grow.
a green leaf sprouted up from the ground in true form.
Reaching into the sky as if saying hello
the new tree met the one who allowed it to grow.
Archie saw the small leaf, and a tear filled his eye.
He was so full of cheer that he started to cry.
It was patience that brought this new life from the ground.
It gave Archie more joy than he ever had found.
He was so full of cheer that he started to cry.
It was patience that brought this new life from the ground.
It gave Archie more joy than he ever had found.
He had not given up when the outlook was grim.
He helped that little seed that depended on him.
And the tree brought him apples, in time, that were sweet.
It brought even more apples than Archie could eat.
It grew strong, broad, and beautiful; ever so tall
from the patience and hope for a seed once so small.
He helped that little seed that depended on him.
And the tree brought him apples, in time, that were sweet.
It brought even more apples than Archie could eat.
It grew strong, broad, and beautiful; ever so tall
from the patience and hope for a seed once so small.
by Wes Fessler
[Hebrews 10:36] For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.
Sometimes we are like Archie, and get discouraged when we don't see immediate results. We pray and work and fast and remain faithful, and sometimes still don't see the answer. Fear not, the answer is on its way. God's timing is perfect. Ours isn't. Even more so, God may be testing our faith to see how true we really are. If we give up after a short period of time, then how can we expect God to give us what we want? We certainly cannot.
Maybe you have a small congregation at your local church and have been praying for years for growth- Don't give up. If you leave, you are not only stopping growth, but creating shrinkage.
Maybe you have unsaved parents, childrens, siblings, etc.- Don't give up. You may be the light that leads them to Christ.
Maybe you are sick in body and need healing- Don't give up. Your healing is on its way whether on this earth or not. You will receive a new body in Heaven.
That list can go on and on. You know your need and so does God. Be patient. Be faithful. He will bring the promise.
[Psalms 27:14] Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.
-[Destiny Turner]
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Mercies of the Morning
Forgive me for the weak devotion for the day. I was in and out of church services and traveling from town to town that I really never sat down to a computer. One thing we can learn is that we are human. We all make mistakes. Some big and some small. Some have long lasting consequences and some may not. We must remember, though, that God is bigger than all of our failures and his mercies are new every morning.
Read Lamentations 3:22-24 for an expounding of this thought.
God bless.
-[destiny turner]
Read Lamentations 3:22-24 for an expounding of this thought.
God bless.
-[destiny turner]
Saturday, July 23, 2011
Leave No Bridge Unburned
A few years ago in Bible Training Institute, one of my teachers said the quote, "Leave no bridge unburned." I never really comprehended the thought until recently. I had gone through a time in my life where I realized that in order to remain in the faith, I had to remove ALL things that could hinder or prevent my success.
It is a very simple thought though when you search the scriptures.
John 3:
[1] There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:
[2] The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.
[3] Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
[4] Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?
[5] Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
[6] That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
[7] Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
Nicodemus did not understand that while literally we cannot be re-birthed by our mother, we can and must have a brand new life when we accept Jesus into our hearts and make Him ruler of our lives. A new life means that we have to get rid of all things left behind from our old lives. If we leave the bridges built, we will be too tempted to cross them and go back into our old ways. That is why we must 'Leave No Bridge Unburned'!
[2 Corinthians 5:17] Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
When we are saved by Jesus Christ, He wipes away our past and casts it in to the Sea of God's Forgetfulness. Our slates are wiped clean and we are given an opportunity to renew our lives, make a new start- a second chance. If God can forget the past sins, temptations, troubles, and mistakes that we have made, we have to forget about them too and move on.
Old friends, old places, old music, old clothes, old jobs, old habits, old games, old ANYTHINGS that trigger negative thoughts or impulses from your sinful lifestyle must be removed. Sanctification will help remove the desires to act upon the temptations that will inevitably arise; however, we can help ourselves by doing all we can to prevent the devil from using our weaknesses against us.
Just remember that being saved begins a whole new life. Don't get caught up in the past. Burn those bridges and build new ones. If the road you're on isn't heading straight for Heaven, then you need to get our your map (the Bible) and get back on track! Try being the passenger and letting God be the driver.
It is a very simple thought though when you search the scriptures.
John 3:
[1] There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews:
[2] The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him.
[3] Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
[4] Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?
[5] Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
[6] That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
[7] Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again.
Nicodemus did not understand that while literally we cannot be re-birthed by our mother, we can and must have a brand new life when we accept Jesus into our hearts and make Him ruler of our lives. A new life means that we have to get rid of all things left behind from our old lives. If we leave the bridges built, we will be too tempted to cross them and go back into our old ways. That is why we must 'Leave No Bridge Unburned'!
[2 Corinthians 5:17] Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
When we are saved by Jesus Christ, He wipes away our past and casts it in to the Sea of God's Forgetfulness. Our slates are wiped clean and we are given an opportunity to renew our lives, make a new start- a second chance. If God can forget the past sins, temptations, troubles, and mistakes that we have made, we have to forget about them too and move on.
Old friends, old places, old music, old clothes, old jobs, old habits, old games, old ANYTHINGS that trigger negative thoughts or impulses from your sinful lifestyle must be removed. Sanctification will help remove the desires to act upon the temptations that will inevitably arise; however, we can help ourselves by doing all we can to prevent the devil from using our weaknesses against us.
Just remember that being saved begins a whole new life. Don't get caught up in the past. Burn those bridges and build new ones. If the road you're on isn't heading straight for Heaven, then you need to get our your map (the Bible) and get back on track! Try being the passenger and letting God be the driver.
-[Destiny Turner]
Friday, July 22, 2011
Love Your Enemies
[Proverbs 24:17] Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:
This is a simple thought today- Love your enemies.
Do we get pleasure in seeing other people fail or do we have the burden that we need to for lost souls? If you are ever happy to see someone fail, then there is an evaluation of the heart that needs to be taken place.
[Proverbs 25:21] If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:
With the love of Christ dwelling in us, we must be able to give all we can to those around us regardless of what they've done. We must learn to turn the other cheek.
The old saying goes- Hate the Sin. Love the Sinner.
If there is someone in your life that you need to forgive or a grudge that you need to let go- do it today. You never know when it will be too late.
[Ephesians 4:26] Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
Lord, help us to not only forgive our enemies, but to love them.
-[Destiny Turner]
With the love of Christ dwelling in us, we must be able to give all we can to those around us regardless of what they've done. We must learn to turn the other cheek.
The old saying goes- Hate the Sin. Love the Sinner.
If there is someone in your life that you need to forgive or a grudge that you need to let go- do it today. You never know when it will be too late.
[Ephesians 4:26] Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
Lord, help us to not only forgive our enemies, but to love them.
-[Destiny Turner]
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Build Your House
An elderly carpenter was ready to retire. He told his employer-contractor of his plans to leave the house-building business to live a more leisurely life with his wife and enjoy his extended family. He would miss the paycheck each week, but he wanted to retire. They could get by.
The contractor was sorry to see his good worker go and asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favor. The carpenter said yes, but over time it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work. He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end a dedicated career.
When the carpenter finished his work, his employer came to inspect the house. Then he handed the front-door key to the carpenter and said, “This is your house… my gift to you.”
The carpenter was shocked!
What a shame! If he had only known he was building his own house, he would have done it all so differently.
So it is with us. We build our lives, a day at a time, often putting less than our best into the building. Then, with a shock, we realize we have to live in the house we have built. If we could do it over, we would do it much differently.
But, you cannot go back. You are the carpenter, and every day you hammer a nail, place a board, or erect a wall. Someone once said, “Life is a do-it-yourself project.” Your attitude, and the choices you make today, help build the “house” you will live in tomorrow. Therefore, build wisely — starting now!
Published in: http://www.inspirationalstories.com/building-your-house/The point to this story is that we all have a "house" to build so to speak. We live every single day building our futures and creating the life that we will live. Many people half-heartedly do the work and they end up in a house that falls smack on the ground when a storm hits. Although it takes time, effort, energy, stamina, endurance, pain, work, strength, etc., you must build a strong house with the right materials if you are going to make it last. God has given us the blueprint- the Bible. Follow his architectural plans and you will succeed. Sometimes we may not understand, feel capable, or think we have the materials available to do the work that God expects of us, but we must try our very best.
Matthew 7:
[24] Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
[25] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
[26] And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:
[27] And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.
You have heard the sayings of God (the Bible). If we follow His commandments He will ensure stability in times of trials and storms; however, if we disobey His words, we will be like the foolish man whose house had a great fall as soon as the rains came in. Which will you be?
A song I learned years ago in Youth Camp says:
"Don't build your house on a sandy land, don't build it too near the shore. Well, it might look kinda nice, but you'll have to build it twice. You'll have to build your house once more. You better build your house upon a rock. Make a good foundation on a solid spot. Oh, the storms may come and go, but the peace of God you will know."
Jesus is our rock that we must build on. He is the only firm foundation that we can trust to withstand that disasters that will inevitably come our way. Many people try to live on money, fame, reputation, lustful desires, and social expectations, but all of that will pass away. The hope of salvation and life eternal will be the only thing that we can take after we leave this world.
Matthew 24:[35] Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
We want God to be able to say of us: Luke 6:[48] He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.
-[Destiny Turner]
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
The Prodigal Son
Luke 15:11-32
[11] And he said, A certain man had two sons:
[12] And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.
[13] And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.
[14] And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.
[15] And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
[16] And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
[17] And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
[18] I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
[19] And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
[20] And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
[21] And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.
[22] But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
[23] And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:
[24] For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.
[25] Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing.
[26] And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant.
[27] And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.
[28] And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.
[29] And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends:
[30] But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.
[31] And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.
[32] It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.
Have you been that lost son? Have you left the safety and comfort of your Father's home? It is never too late to come back.
Romans 3:23] For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;
We have all sinned. We have all failed God at times. We are all so undeserving of His grace, BUT God forgives and forgets our past when we come running back to His arms and ask for another chance. Don't let Satan tell you that you're too far gone or too lost to return home. Don't let Satan make you think that everyone will make fun of you or that people won't be able to get over your mistakes. If God, the Master Creator of this universe, can forgive and forget- how can the rest of us do any differently? We certainly can't.
Many people in today's society say that we need to "Live it up", "Enjoy the moment", "Party hard while we're young". The Prodigal Son acted upon this and it led him down a lost and miserable road. The stakes are the same today. Don't live for today, think of tomorrow: Heaven or Hell.
Come home while there is time. God misses you.
-[Destiny Turner]
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Conformity
http://www.age-of-the-sage.org/psychology/social/asch_conformity.html
Follow the link above and read the study of conformity that Solomon Asch performed.
Basically what happened was- a group of people were "staged" to answer a question about how long a certain line was compared to others. They were told to say the clearly wrong answer. The ones performing the experiment were not told which answer to choose; however, because they heard the other (staged) individuals' wrong answers-- they conformed.. EVEN THOUGH THEY KNEW IT WAS WRONG!!!
The point to this whole lesson is that we as humans are major conformists. We like to "go along with the crowd", "follow the bandwagon", etc. Nobody wants to feel alone, left out, unique, or solo. But God made us, right? So don't you think He knows that we tend to conform? YES!! He knows everything about us.
It is okay to conform- IF you conform to the right thing. God has given us countless Biblical examples that we can follow after. Surround yourself with Godly people, not sinful ones. Peer pressure is okay if it is positive! BTI and YOUTH CAMP are perfect examples of positive peer pressure taking place.
[Romans 12:2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Stand up for what you know is right and God will bless you. Like my pastor always says, "We can't twist the Word of God to fit our lives, we must twist our lives to fit the Word of God."
Follow the link above and read the study of conformity that Solomon Asch performed.
Basically what happened was- a group of people were "staged" to answer a question about how long a certain line was compared to others. They were told to say the clearly wrong answer. The ones performing the experiment were not told which answer to choose; however, because they heard the other (staged) individuals' wrong answers-- they conformed.. EVEN THOUGH THEY KNEW IT WAS WRONG!!!
The point to this whole lesson is that we as humans are major conformists. We like to "go along with the crowd", "follow the bandwagon", etc. Nobody wants to feel alone, left out, unique, or solo. But God made us, right? So don't you think He knows that we tend to conform? YES!! He knows everything about us.
It is okay to conform- IF you conform to the right thing. God has given us countless Biblical examples that we can follow after. Surround yourself with Godly people, not sinful ones. Peer pressure is okay if it is positive! BTI and YOUTH CAMP are perfect examples of positive peer pressure taking place.
[Romans 12:2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Stand up for what you know is right and God will bless you. Like my pastor always says, "We can't twist the Word of God to fit our lives, we must twist our lives to fit the Word of God."
Monday, July 18, 2011
The BEST LOVE
How many have wondered "when will I find true love?" I have big news--I found mine!! Jesus Christ. There is love of family, friends, and spouses in the world but the best love is not of the world. It is the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
1 John 3:16 Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.
*Jesus died for each and every sin that would ever be committed. He loved us before we loved him and now it is our time to use our life to love Him back. Also we must love our brethren just as Jesus loved us. That seems so hard sometimes because we may not agree with our brethren all the time and we may not get along with everyone but Jesus didn't choose who He loved and was slain for. He was crucified for EVERYONE- rich man, poor man, weak man, strong man, boy, girl, man, woman, young, old. We have to be the same and share His love with all the world. You never know who is running out of time to change his/her lifestyle, so be a witness to everyone. You just might help cause a change in someone.
Romans 8:35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? [37] Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. [39] Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
*Satan will try and stop us from continuing in the love of Christ, but no outside force can separate us from the best love we could ever imagine. "We are more than conquerors!!!" How amazing is that thought?? As long as we stay strong and continue to serve the Lord will all of our heart, mind, and strength--nothing can turn us away. But there will be times that someone will find another worldly "love" such as money, pride, pleasure, or even fear that we get so obsessed with that we may neglect true love. It is just like in any other relationship you have in the world. If you cheat on your boyfriend/girlfriend with another boy/girl then they are going to be hurt and you will have to apologize and rebuild that trust before your relationship is going to be back to that same level again. Just like Christ. If we "cheat" on Christ with Satan and his worldly items then we will have to repent and rebuild that trust before we are on the same pathway again.
Proverbs 18:24 A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.
1 John 4:19 We love him, because he first loved us.
This little Sunday school verse that we often sing has so much meaning behind it—
Oh, how I love Jesus,
Oh, how I love Jesus,
Oh, how I love Jesus,
Because He first loved me!
Because He first loved me!
Thank You Jesus for giving your life for me. Thank You for not allowing any outside force to stop your love. Thank you for being closer to me than a brother. I thank you for all that you have done and are doing for me.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Patient in His Promises
[Hebrews 10:36] For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.[37] For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.
God has made great promises to us. He has treasures stored up for each and every person. Some treasures may be visible and some invisible. Some may seem great and some may seem small. Many people may have an abundance of blessings on this present earth, but all of God's children has the greatest promise of eternal life in Glory. A lot of times we ask God for certain things on this earth that we THINK we need. We beg Him to give, give, give. We ask for answers.. He wants us to ask of Him what we need; however, what we fail to remember is that 'No' is an acceptable answer. God has a reason for everything and a reason for answering 'Yes' or 'No'. Do we lose faith sometimes because we don't consider that God has a divine understanding and a more perfect idea than us?
This is an example of a conversation between God and one of His children-
Let us be careful not to write God off as not answering our prayers or feel that we are being neglected. God knows what is best for us. We must stay reminded that God is God and we are not. Don't play God and try to control your world. Be patient and He will work it all out in the end. Remember the old children's church song lyrics: "He's got the whole world in His hands." Who are we to doubt His master plan?
Sometimes it may seem like its still raining after we've prayed and maybe even fasted. Don't worry, though! The answer will come, but only in His time.
-[Destiny Turner]
God has made great promises to us. He has treasures stored up for each and every person. Some treasures may be visible and some invisible. Some may seem great and some may seem small. Many people may have an abundance of blessings on this present earth, but all of God's children has the greatest promise of eternal life in Glory. A lot of times we ask God for certain things on this earth that we THINK we need. We beg Him to give, give, give. We ask for answers.. He wants us to ask of Him what we need; however, what we fail to remember is that 'No' is an acceptable answer. God has a reason for everything and a reason for answering 'Yes' or 'No'. Do we lose faith sometimes because we don't consider that God has a divine understanding and a more perfect idea than us?
This is an example of a conversation between God and one of His children-
- I asked God to take away my pain. God said, No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give it up.
- I asked God to make my handicapped child whole. God said, No. Her spirit was whole, her body was only temporary.
- I asked God to grant me patience. God said, No. Patience is a by-product of tribulations. It isn't granted, it is earned.
- I asked God to give me happiness. God said, No. I give you blessings. Happiness is up to you.
- I asked God to spare me pain. God said, No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me.
- I asked God to make my spirit grow. God said, No. You must grow on your own, but I will prune you to make you fruitful.
- I asked for all things that I might enjoy life. God said, No. I will give you life so that you may enjoy all things.
- I ask God to help me LOVE others, as much as he loves me. God said... Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.
Let us be careful not to write God off as not answering our prayers or feel that we are being neglected. God knows what is best for us. We must stay reminded that God is God and we are not. Don't play God and try to control your world. Be patient and He will work it all out in the end. Remember the old children's church song lyrics: "He's got the whole world in His hands." Who are we to doubt His master plan?
Sometimes it may seem like its still raining after we've prayed and maybe even fasted. Don't worry, though! The answer will come, but only in His time.
-[Destiny Turner]
Soldier in God's Army
[2 Timothy 2:3] Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.[4] No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
A soldier by definition means: an enlisted man or woman, as distinguished from a commissioned officer, or a person who contends or serves for any cause. Generally when we think of a soldier, our minds are sent straight to war. A war is a conflict between two opposing forces.
Paul charges Timothy in the scripture above to endure hardness and be a good soldier for Jesus Christ. We are in that same war today. If you are saved, Jesus, our "commissioned officer", has distinguished you to join the battle between God vs Satan, Holiness vs Sin, Heaven vs Hell, Light vs Darkness. It is our job to carry the truth and 'recruit' more soldiers for our mighty army. Trials and tests loom about, rocky grounds await our journey, there are waters to wade and mountains to climb; however, God's army has already been promised victory. Take a look back in Revelations, and you will see who wins the war.
Future for Satan's Army
[Revelations 21:8] But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
Future for God's Army
[Revelations 22:5] And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.
Which side do you choose?
It will not profit our fight if we entangle ourselves with the cares of this world. We must lay off the things will will easily beset us and weigh us down. Just as little David cast off the armor when he went against Goliath, we must cast off the worldly armor and go into this battle with the God that cannot be defeated.
[Ephesians 6:10] Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
[11] Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
[12] For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
[13] Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
[14] Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
[15] And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
[16] Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.[17] And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
Our supplies are in stock and our future is bright. We must work while it is day and win all we can for God. Bring glory to His name in all that you do. If you win one soul for Christ and His army, it will be worth it all. Resist temptation. Stand strong and firm in your faith. The only way we will be able to withstand the world in this war is to keep on our armor of God and put off that which we do not need.
In the end, let us all be able to say :
[2 Timothy 4:7] I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
-[Destiny Turner]
A soldier by definition means: an enlisted man or woman, as distinguished from a commissioned officer, or a person who contends or serves for any cause. Generally when we think of a soldier, our minds are sent straight to war. A war is a conflict between two opposing forces.
Paul charges Timothy in the scripture above to endure hardness and be a good soldier for Jesus Christ. We are in that same war today. If you are saved, Jesus, our "commissioned officer", has distinguished you to join the battle between God vs Satan, Holiness vs Sin, Heaven vs Hell, Light vs Darkness. It is our job to carry the truth and 'recruit' more soldiers for our mighty army. Trials and tests loom about, rocky grounds await our journey, there are waters to wade and mountains to climb; however, God's army has already been promised victory. Take a look back in Revelations, and you will see who wins the war.
Future for Satan's Army
[Revelations 21:8] But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
Future for God's Army
[Revelations 22:5] And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever.
Which side do you choose?
It will not profit our fight if we entangle ourselves with the cares of this world. We must lay off the things will will easily beset us and weigh us down. Just as little David cast off the armor when he went against Goliath, we must cast off the worldly armor and go into this battle with the God that cannot be defeated.
[Ephesians 6:10] Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.
[11] Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
[12] For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.
[13] Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
[14] Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
[15] And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
[16] Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.[17] And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
Our supplies are in stock and our future is bright. We must work while it is day and win all we can for God. Bring glory to His name in all that you do. If you win one soul for Christ and His army, it will be worth it all. Resist temptation. Stand strong and firm in your faith. The only way we will be able to withstand the world in this war is to keep on our armor of God and put off that which we do not need.
In the end, let us all be able to say :
[2 Timothy 4:7] I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
(Although this video does not display The Church of God members, we do sing this congregational song and enjoy the meaningful lyrics it contains!)
-[Destiny Turner]
Friday, July 15, 2011
Forgiven
Luke 7… 37And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, 38And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. 39Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner… 47Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. 48And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. 50And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.
Forgiveness is defined as “to excuse for fault or offense; to pardon; to absolve from payment of.” Our sin debt was so high, we could never have paid it, but thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift of forgiveness!
Do you remember that you were once in desperate need of forgiveness? Have you forgotten the heaviness and load of guilt you once had to bear? Or maybe no matter how hard you try, the devil just won’t let you forget your past, and you are having trouble remembering that you are forgiven. Without true forgiveness, there is a sense of unrest, and, as unforgiveness festers, it grows into bitterness that cannot be contained. Whether it is forgiveness for us or forgiveness which must be extended from us to others… true forgiveness brings PEACE.
This Pharisee either forgot or failed to recognize his own need of forgiveness. In so doing, he could not see this woman’s need and was without compassion for her. Even today, many have this same type of behavior. Some may feel they are more deserving or were “less sinful” than others. As we get distance between who we were and who we are now, many forget the great privilege of being delivered from the dreadfulness of sin. Though, we should not live in the past, constantly being reminded of our old sinful lifestyles, neither should we forget the great gift of forgiveness we have been given, and may we always be willing to extend that same gift to others.
-[Charlotte Dixon]
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Jigsaw Puzzle
A Jigsaw Puzzle is a puzzle consisting of a mass of irregularly shaped pieces of cardboard, plastic, or wood that form a picture when fitted correctly. We each have a "jigsaw puzzle"- (our life). We're all shaped differently, sized differently, and we are "jigsaw pieces" of our life puzzle. Each piece fits in its own individual spot. We as humans try to put our puzzle together, but we fail each time, because we don't see the picture that we are supposed to be forming. God does! He is the only One who knows what/where our missing puzzle piece is.
God is the Master Creator, so let Him do His job. He sees what is beyond our understanding.
[Isaiah 55:8] For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD [9] For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
God is the Master Creator, so let Him do His job. He sees what is beyond our understanding.
[Isaiah 55:8] For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD [9] For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
-[Josie Flewellen]
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Be Happy In the Lord
There are too many people who seem so unhappy. There are too many people that have so many things to praise God for, but instead complain about practically everything. There are too many people that let the spirit of Discouragement control their life. The world is wicked, and there are evil people that hurt us. So, WHY should we be happy? Let us look to the Bible for the answer...
*PSALMS 146:5, "Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the LORD his God." Having God as our Heavenly Father, with our hope placed in Him alone, will bring happiness.
*PROVERBS 14:21 "He that despiseth his neighbour sinneth: but he that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he." Loving others and being generous and kind to the less fortunate, as the Bible commands, will bring happiness.
*PROVERBS 16:20 "He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good: and whoso trusteth in the LORD, happy is he." Making wise decisions and putting trust in God, will bring happiness.
*JOHN 13:17 "If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them." Obedience to God's Word, will bring happiness.
*1 PETER 3:14 "But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;" And even when we do all we can, and are hurt by the ones we love, struck down by family, beat down at work, crushed by people at school, looked down upon because of our belief in the whole Truth, we can still have true happiness.
Christ came to this sinful world and died on the cross for our sins. He came as a living sacrifice. He laid down His life to save us. He had the whole world on his back, and was without complaint. In light of all this, do we have any room to complain or feel like we just can't go on anymore? Jesus is our friend, our rock, our shield, our deliverance, our hope, our peace, our everything.
John 16:33 "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." And because He did, we can, too... "When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee." (Isaiah 43:2)
Ginny Owens' song, "If you want me to" says, "Cause I'm not who I was when I took my first step. And I'm clinging to the promise You're not through with me yet. So if all of these trials bring me closer to You, then I will go through the fire, if You want me to."
Oh, Lord, help us to go willingly through those things that lie before us and to come through perfected in Your image...though it be fire, valleys, or storms. Help us to see that You will not bring us TO something, that You will not bring us safely THROUGH...and that we might face it all with a happy and joyful heart!
-[Destiny Turner]
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Worthy of Praise
Let us never forget how majestic, mighty, powerful, glorious, and worthy our God is to be praised. Sometimes we ask for so many things and get stressed out and worried and pray for Him to deal with our problems continuously, but never stop to praise Him. He WANTS us to depend on Him and to ask for needs and desires; however, He DESERVES our endless praises.
[Psalms 9:1] I will praise thee, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works.[2] I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High.[3] When mine enemies are turned back, they shall fall and perish at thy presence.
Rather than begging for prayers to be answered, praise Him for the answer you KNOW He is going to bring. Rejoice in trials. Praise Him in the storms. Be glad in the Lord because His joy is our strength.
[Psalms 16:8] I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.[9] Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.[10] For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.[11] Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
No matter what problems you are facing, no matter how many defeats you seem to be having in this present world, you have victory in Jesus. If you never win another battle or if it seems God never answers another prayer request, He is STILL worthy to be praised because He has given us the ultimate victory- salvation. Remember Job, when all of life fails around you and everything falls apart, don't curse God. He is still your all in all.
-[Destiny Turner]
[Psalms 9:1] I will praise thee, O LORD, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works.[2] I will be glad and rejoice in thee: I will sing praise to thy name, O thou most High.[3] When mine enemies are turned back, they shall fall and perish at thy presence.
Rather than begging for prayers to be answered, praise Him for the answer you KNOW He is going to bring. Rejoice in trials. Praise Him in the storms. Be glad in the Lord because His joy is our strength.
[Psalms 16:8] I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.[9] Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.[10] For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.[11] Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.
No matter what problems you are facing, no matter how many defeats you seem to be having in this present world, you have victory in Jesus. If you never win another battle or if it seems God never answers another prayer request, He is STILL worthy to be praised because He has given us the ultimate victory- salvation. Remember Job, when all of life fails around you and everything falls apart, don't curse God. He is still your all in all.
-[Destiny Turner]
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