Devotionals

Commandment # 1 

Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

Exodus 20: 1-3

1) And God spake all these words, saying,

2) I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

3) Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

Thou shalt have no other Gods before me is the first commandment. Their is only one true God,  and one true King. 

Isaiah 43:11

I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no saviour.

Isaiah 46:9

Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me,

We also see in the New Testament

1 Corinthians 8:6 

but to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. 

1 Timothy 2:5 

“For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;”  

When/If everyone today will grasps this truth there is only one God this world would be a better place. Many today refuse to worship the one true God. One must realize apart from God they truly cant get through this life. Yes, one will live their life physically, but the emptiness and void within them will never be met. A relationship with God is the only way.

Commandment # 2

Thou shalt not make unto the any graven image

Exodus 20:4-5

4) Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.

5) Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me;

6) And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

A graven image is an idol or representation of a god used as an object of worship.

This is usually thought of as an idol like a statue or soemthing carved and yes that is true. However, we see that a graven image can be an object. It can be anything that takes the place of worshiping God. Many dont look at it this way. God is and should be the main priority in our lives. Anything that takes us away from worshiping God, seving God, going to church, reading the Bible, and our prayer can and is and idol. When this or these things _________ take place over the importance of God that is an idol. This can be sports, vidoe games, internet, and if ones friends are not like minded, and is not a child of God that friendship that takes you away from Godly things can be an idol. Again anything that is given so much time that it takes your eyes off of Christ is not ok.

1 John 5:21

“Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.”  

Commanment # 3

Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain

Exodus 20:7

Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.

Many only see a problem with this when some Says God followed by, will just say the "D" word. Yes this is correct however, that is not the only way the Lords name can be taken in vain. The saying used and heard so often is "Oh my G**" ( The stars are placed because even typing that does not set well with me). Also, lets say your watching a sport and a bad play is made. Often you hear God or Jesus. Again it is not ok for the name of God our Father and Jesus our Savior  to be casually used or to be in the place where another ungodly word could be. 

Philippians 2:9-11

9) Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, 

10) so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 

11) and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Acts 4:12

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

Ephesians 1:21

far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only 

in this age but also in the one to come.

Psalm 148:13

Let them praise the name of the Lord,
for his name alone is exalted;

his majesty is above earth and heaven.

We must always have reverance to our Heavenly Father and be careful in what we say.

James 3:8 

But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. 

Commandment # 4

Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy

8) Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.

9) Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work:

10) But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:

11)  For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it.

Today Jesus is the Sabbath. Today every day is the sabbath because God sent His only Son to pay the penalty for our sins. He has paid that price once and for all. We can rest every day in the presence of Jesus. It no longer has to be one day of the week it is everyday.  

Mark 2:27-28 

27) And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath: 

28) Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath. 

Commandment # 5

Honour thy father and mother

Exodus 20:12

Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. 

This is seen so little today. This is referring to younger children, but also is speaking to adult children. No matter old we get we still have parents. In todays society children of all ages do not respect their parents. Ways that this takes place for the younger children is not listening, not being obedient, and talking back. For adults all these apply as well. One may say well I am grown I dont have to obey my parents any more. Yes this us usually the case, but one must remember to honour their parents we must be obedient to God and His Word.

1 Timothy 5:8

But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.

Not all parents will have to live with their children, but in the event that they do we must honour them and take care of them because they took care of us. Rather it be the young children honouring their parents in repect or adult children honouring their parents with care it is what we are supposed to do.

Ephesians 6:2-3

2) Honour thy father and mother; which is the first commandment with promise;

3) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth.

Commandment # 6

You shall not murder

Exodus 20:13

You shall not murder

This commandment is very easy to understand. We must not purposely take the life of a person. We cant just allow revenge to take us over and it result in vegence being given.

Romans 12:19

Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it[a] to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.”

We must always know there is a severe consequence for the taking of the life of another.

Matthew 5:21

You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.’

Leviticus 24:17

“Whoever takes a human life shall surely be put to death

Murder is more than just a physical act. There is more that constitutes murder to God, who tells us that “everyone who hates his brother is a murderer,

The Bible takes another approach to murder. Thankfully the majority of people want commit murder. What we look at next is something that sadly takes place every minute of every day.

God defines murder as any thought or feeling of deep-seated hatred or malice against another person. In other words, it is more than just a physical act that constitutes murder to God, who tells us that “everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.” 

1 John 3:15

Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.

When we harbor hatred in our hearts for another, we have committed the sin of murder in God’s eyes. The disdain towards another person never has to be demonstrated outwardly because God looks upon the heart for the truth.

1 Samuel 16:7

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

As Christians and as human beings, we know that unjustified killing is wrong. God’s Word is very clear on this point: “You shall not murder.” And what God says we must obey, or we face the consequences on judgment day.

Revelation 21:8

But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”

Commandment # 7

Thou shalt not commit adultery.

This like the commandment # 6 is another one that is pretty easy to undersatnd. One should be faithful to thier spouse. Adultery is in abundance in this day and time. Social media and other internet platforms are a huge part of that. Yes if yoU are reading this you are on the internet. It can be used for good and spreading the Gospel which is the #1 reason I do what I do. Sadly with platforms of today it easy for some to fall into the trap of the devil. Of course, social media platoforms and the other things on the internet are not the only way this can happen. Relationships at work, friends, and many other things that can lead to infidelity. There can be emotional affairs, flirting, or saying inappropriate things. We must guard our hearts.

Proverbs 4:23

Above all else, guard your heart,

for everything you do flows from it.

Guarding our hearts from a scriptural perspective means for us to be alert, through the power of Christ within us, to what enters and dwells in our hearts. We need to be aware of what we say and do, because over time, our thoughts and actions shape the status of our hearts.

As I said above this commandment is like commandment 6. The bible again shows a different application to this commandment.

Matthew 5:28

But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

1 John 2:16

For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world.

When you see these verses, and there are many more, it puts things in perspective. Many try to excuse their behavior by saying and thinking, as long as I dont touch or have physical contact it is ok. This is not the case. marriage is a serious thing. 

Rather it is an actual physical affair, emotional affair, or just lust it is a sin and in the eyes of God adultery.

Hebrews 13:4

Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous.

1 Corinthians 6:9

Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 

Adultery is a sin being faithful to your spouse is being faithful to God

Commandment # 8

Thou shalt not steal

Exodus 20:15

Thou shalt not steal.

All of us at some point have stolen something. Maybe it was something small or something big. A piece of candy or an automobile. Regardless of the object stolen it is wrong and a sin.

Leviticus 19:11

You shall not steal; you shall not deal falsely; you shall not lie to one another

Luke 18:20

You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery, Do not murder, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother.’”

There is always a consequence to stealing. It could be a friend who one has stolen from, and the friend is mad and does not want to talk to them for a day. It could be a friendship totally lost, and depending on the offense it could be jail time. Consequences can be criminal, physical, and worst of all spiritual.

Leviticus 6:1-5

1) And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,  

2) If a soul sin, and commit a trespass against the LORD, and lie unto his neighbour in that which was delivered him to keep, or in fellowship, or in a thing taken away by violence, or hath deceived his neighbour;  

3) Or have found that which was lost, and lieth concerning it, and sweareth falsely; in any of all these that a man doeth, sinning therein:  

4) Then it shall be, because he hath sinned, and is guilty, that he shall restore that which he took violently away, or the thing which he hath deceitfully gotten, or that which was delivered him to keep, or the lost thing which he found,  

5) Or all that about which he hath sworn falsely; he shall even restore it in the principal, and shall add the fifth part more thereto, and give it unto him to whom it appertaineth, in the day of his trespass offering.

It is my prayer that anyone who may be partaking in sin would turn their life around, and make on the wrong they have done.

Ephesians 4:28

Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.

Commandment # 9

Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.

Exodus 20:16

Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.

To be a false witness is to tell lies, be deceitful, and misleading. Telling lies will break trust. Lies will ruin friendships and, even worse, break up marraiges and family. Once trust is gone it is almost impossible to regain it. 

Often one will lie to purposely to start trouble

Proverbs 6:19

a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.

When one is truthful they are trustworthy and have a good reputation. Wehn one lies it is the total opposite.

Proverbs 12:17

Whoever speaks the truth gives honest evidence, but a false witness utters deceit.

Proverbs 14:5

A faithful witness does not lie, but a false witness breathes out lies.

Eventually all lies will come into the light

Luke 8:17

For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light.

For a little while one may get away with lies but they will not get away with it in the end.

Proverbs 19:5

A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will not escape.

Psalm 19:9

A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will perish.

To be a liar is great consequences. Morally and spiritually.

To avoid these troubles we just simply dont bear false witness.

Commandment # 10

Thou shalt not covet

Exodus 20:17

You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor's.

Deuteronomy 5:21

And you shall not covet your neighbor's wife. And you shall not desire your neighbor's house, his field, or his male servant, or his female servant, his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor's.

To covet is to want soemthing that is not yours or want something you dont have. We see this today and it is not ok. One can look upon another mans wife and have a desire for her. That is called lust and is a sin just as coveting is. One may want a bigger house, a more expensive car, a better job, or more money in the bank. Usually this is jealousy becasue of what some one else has. Of course money is needed from day to day. Money in itself is not bad it is the love of money. Many are never satisfied with what they have. The blessings they have recieved. They want more and more. We must be thankful for what we have and not always wanting more and what some else has. Yes, it is ok to strive to do better, but to want to improve ones self is totally different than letting somone else and what they have be your motivation. Some one elses stuff, status, or situations can not be the backbone of who you are or what you want to become. 

Sadly to covet can lead to even more sin. One can do harm to another becasue they want what they have. One can do harm to another simply because of what they have. 

Micah 2:2

They covet fields and seize them, and houses, and take them away they oppress a man and his house, a man and his inheritance.

As with all sin and the other 9 commandments there is severe consequences. Obedience and following the commandments of God = blessings. Disobedience = eternal punishment.

1 Corinthians 6:10

Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.

5 Things that Identify a Child of God

1) One will Obey the Lord 

When one is saved they will have a desire to obey and serve the Lord 

1 John 2:3 

And by this we know that we have come to know him, if we keep his commandments.

When one becomes a Christian there will be a great desire to follow the Word of God. If there is not the one should.

2) One will Develop a New Relationship with Sin 

Sin is no longer enjoyable. 

1 John 3:7-9 

7) Little children, let no one deceive you. Whoever practices righteousness is righteous, as he is righteous.  

8) Whoever makes a practice of sinning is of the devil, for the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil.  

9) No one born of God makes a practice of sinning, for God's seed abides in him; and he cannot keep on sinning, because he has been born of God. 

When we accept Jesus we are a New Creation 

3) One will Love other Fellow Believers One should have a heart for other Christians. 

1 John 3:14 

We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brothers. Whoever does not love abides in death.  

One should want to be around like minded Christians. To have fellowship with them. 

4) There will be an Indwelling of the Holy Spirit in Ones Life 

The Holy Spirit in us is our guide, teacher, and comforter. Apart from the Holy Spirit will be like wandering in the woods with out a compass. We will be lost and going in the wrong direction. He guides, teaches, and comforts us daily. 

1 John 4:13 

By this we know that we abide in him and he in us, because he has given us of his Spirit. 

When one has the Holy Spirit they will be able to spiritual discern truth from error. Things will be put to test. Does it align with the Word of God? It will just be something about it that doesn't sit right. 

5) When One becomes a Child of God things of the World are no longer Desirable. 

Our desires should be things of God not of this world 

1 John 5:4 

For everyone who has been born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. 

When we become a child of God things of this world are no longer desirable. Things of God takes the place of them. If one spends more time with the world than they do with God or one spends no time at all with God one may need to as said before examine themselves (2 Corinthians 13:5) If this is not evident in ones life and they realize they are not a child of God then call on Jesus today.

Facts about the Bible 

The Bible Contains  

2 Testaments 

66 books 

783,137 words 

3,116,480 letters 

39 books in the Old Testament 

27 books in the New Testament 

Chapters and Verses 

The Bible has 1,189 Chapters 

The Bible has 31,102 verses 

The Old Testament has 929 chapters 

The Old Testament has 23,145 verses 

The New Testament has 260 chapters 

The New Testament has 7,957 verses 

Chapters were added to the Bible in 1238 by Cardinal Hugo de S. Caro

Verse divisions were added in the year 1551 by Robertus Stephanus 

Longest book: Psalms (150 chapters) 

Longest chapter: Psalm 119 (176 verses) 

Longest verse: Esther 8:9 (78 words) 

Shortest book (by number of words): 3 John 

Shortest chapter (by number of words): Psalms 117 

Shortest verse: John 11:35 (2 words: “Jesus wept”) 

The Bible was written over a 1500 year span (from circa 1400 B.C to A.D. 100) over 40 generations over 40 authors from many walks of life in different places at different times on three continents (Asia, Africa, and Europe) in three languages (Hebrew, Aramaic [Chaldee], and Greek) 

Books of the Bible

Old Testament 

Law (5)

1) Genesis 2) Exodus 3) Leviticus 4) Numbers 5) Deuteronomy 

Historical (12)

1) Joshua 2) Judges 3) Ruth 4) 1 Samuel 5) 2 Samuel 6) 1 Kings 7) 2 Kings 8) 1 Chronicles 9) 2 Chronicles 10) Ezra 11) Nehemiah 12)Esther 

Wisdom (5)

1) Job 2) Psalms 3) Proverbs 4) Ecclesiastes 5) Song of Solomon 

Major Prophets (5)

1) Isaiah 2) Jeremiah 3) Lamentations 4) Ezekiel 5) Daniel 

Minor Prophets (12) 

1) Hosea 2) Joel 3) Amos 4) Obadiah 5)Jonah 6) Micah 7) Nahum 8) Habakkuk 9) Zephaniah 10) Haggai 11) Zechariah

12) Malachi 

New Testament

Gospels (4) 

1) Matthew 2) Mark 3) Luke 4) John 

Historical (1)

1) Acts 

Epistles (21)

Pauls Epistles (14) including Hebrews

1) Romans 2) 1 Corinthians 3) 2 Corinthians 4) Galatians 5) Ephesians 6) Philippians 7) Colossians 8) 1 Thessalonians 

9) 2 Thessalonians 10) 1 Timothy 11)  2 Timothy 12) Titus 13) Philemon 14) Hebrews 

General Epistles (7)

1) James 2) 1 Peter 3) 2 Peter 

4) 1 John 5) 2 John 6) 3 John 7) Jude 

Prophetic (1)

Revelation 

The Bible is inspired by God Himself! It is His Word, containing His wisdom, His goodness, His intentions, His judgements, His heart. Have you been so interested in understanding God’s will that you spend time with His very own Word? If we want to gain life and nourishment for our spirit, it is essential that we spend time with God’s Word. God’s Word is a source of life! It contains infinite help and wisdom. And, when it is read and obeyed in a spirit of faith, it leads us to unimaginable spiritual growth. The Bible contains all the instruction that we need to come to a life of true purity and righteousness. It teaches us how we can follow Christ in truth. It contains words and examples from heroes of faith, prophets, apostles, Jesus Christ and God Himself! What better teaching, what better instruction is there for those who want to live a life that is well-pleasing to God our Creator? Can you make time to set aside to dive into the Word of God the Bible. It will forever change your life. The Bible is so the Lost Can Know and The Saved can Grow.

Be Separate

In todays world many christians do not understand what it means to be a christian. The bible is very clear on this with many verses. A lot of christians want to pick and choose what is sin and what is not. The foundation of those thoughts are ones personal feelings and desires. 

James 1:14 

But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire 

When one understands that any desires they have that are not aligned with the word of God is no foundation at all. When we do anything apart from God it may seem ok for a moment but it will always fail in time. 

Matthew 7:24-25 

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. 

Jesus is our foundation and our rock. Any thing on any other foundation will fail. When we come to Christ in total surrender and accept Him as our Savior we must be different. 

We are to be different 

Romans 12:2 

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and  perfect. 

We are not to be like the world. When we become a child of God everything about us is new. 

2 Corinthians 5:17 

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 

We are completely different and completely new including our minds. When our mind becomes renewed then our thoughts will be new because we are new. When our mind is renewed then are actions are new also. The evidence of being a new creation is by the fruits we exhibit. What this means is we must be separate. 

2 Corinthians 6:17 

Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. 

So many today try to justify and excuse their sin away. Rather it is alcohol, drugs, conversations, the way they dress, etc. Actions always replace words. See, people today use a worldly standard to make sure their desired standard is ok. When we compare ourselves to others with a worldly perspective then we look pretty good. However, if we always consider our behavior to be ok based on someone else’s behavior in a worldly sense then we are never going to meet Gods standard. We are to never let the worlds standard identify us. The only standard we should look to is God’s standard. We must look at this world and our actions with a Biblical world view and nothing else. Things we do may not look that bad compared to others. 

The question is how does it look to God.

Peace/Comfort

Philippians 4:7 

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus

Right before this verse in Philippians 4:4-6 it gives some amazing truths.  

Philippians 4:4

4) says to rejoice in the Lord always.  

No matter what we may be dealing with good or bad we need to rejoice in the Lord. We have more blessings than we can count. Every morning when we wake up thank God for the new day. That is reason enough to rejoice. There is many more reasons we could say. Just remember rejoice God daily. 

Philippians 4:5

5) let all your moderation Be known unto men.  

This is to say we are to live a life that gives witness to others that we don’t partake in things that is not pleasing to God. We are to be known for gentleness, patience, and moderation. Christians are not to be seen as easily angered or foolish, but rather as reasonable, wise people who can handle difficulties and disagreements with maturity. This is not easy and we all fail at this but we should strive for it.  

Philippians 4:6

6) Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known unto God. 

We have all heard this one it is pretty self explanatory we are to not worry. Why? Cause we can bring all or request to Him through prayer. Prayer is how we talk to our Savior. Nothing is to big for God always go to Him in prayer.  

Philippians 4:7 

is telling us that Jesus will guard our hearts and minds as we live for Him. 

This will be done with peace that in no other way can ever be attained to the fullest and have a long everlasting presence. The peace which will guard our hearts and mind is we have peace knowing in the blessing of a life with Jesus. We will always rejoice the Lord which will bring peace. We will bear witness to all others by living a life that represents God in our actions and dealing with others. We will have peace because we can bring all things to God in prayer. Through rejoicing in what is to come. Living a Godly life. Being in continuous prayer. Will bring an abundance of peace and protection to our hearts and lives. It will produce a life pleasing to God and that witnesses to others. 

What is Ones Purpose 

In this life lets look at a question some ask and if not should ask. What is my purpose? What is your purpose? Many will say popularity, talents, sports, friendships, marriage, having children, good job, success, fame, and becoming rich. All those things can be a great thing if any or all can be accomplished. However, we must understand they are only temporary, and not our true purpose. 

There is two things that is our true purpose. 

1) You purpose is to Live for God Glorifying and Worshiping Him 

1 Corinthians 10:31 

So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. 

Matthew 5:16 

In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. 

We should Glorify God in all that we do so others can see God in our lives. 

2) Share the Gospel 

Matthew 28:19 

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 

Living for God and telling others about Him are the two most purposeful things we can and should do with our lives. 

One may ask “How can I do this? For one to Live for God and share their Gospel with others they must accept Jesus as Savior 

John 3:16 

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. 

Romans 10:9 

Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. 

Once you have accepted Jesus as your Savior and surrendered your life to Him. Then you can finally see the importance of Living for God and Sharing the Gospel with others. We are to prepare for Eternity in Heaven while Temporarily on Earth. Our true purpose is not things of this world. It is to be prepared for Eternity, Glorify and worship our Creator and tell others about Him

Romans 14:8 

For if we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord. So then, whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord's.

Identity in Christ 

Today we look for fun, happiness, acceptance, possessions, peace, and many others things. The most important thing that identifies us is our relationship with Jesus Christ. When we realize this is what truly identities us all the others things will follow. 

(1) Your identity must be anchored in Christ 

Romans 6:11 

So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus. 

To truly be anchored in Christ we have to die to sin. To die to sin means live for God. “A true child of God will not withstand temptation, a true child of God will not allow themselves to be tempted. 

2 Corinthians 5:17 

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

What is one identifying with and are identified by, the world or God. 

(2) Jesus Knows Us and Loves Us. 

Ephesians 1:4-5 

4) even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love  

5) he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, God chose us before the beginning of the world. 

He predestined us for adoption. God from the beginning has chosen all and predetermined that those who would surrender their life to Him, be purposeful for Him, and live according to His will would be identified with Him, by Him, and through Him. Those who do not surrender their life to Him will be identified apart from God and be identified with the world. 

(3) If we ever need love, validation, confidence, help, and peace look to Christ. 

Isaiah 9:6 

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 

Today this world has standards and that is exactly what they are, worldly standards. All of us look for our confidence, validation, peace, acceptance, and status in things of this world. Ones true validation is in Christ. When we identify with Christ all the other things will automatically come.  

(4) We can also have People who can and will Help Us and Guide Us. 

Philemon 1:7 

For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you. 

As a new young christian one may still be searching for their identity. No one will ever replace Christ, that will never happen, but young christians can always benefit from having a Godly person they can learn from. 

(5) Ultimately God/Jesus gives Us what we Need 

Matthew 6:33

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. 

When we identify with Christ we will seek first the kingdom of God. We will strive for righteousness. If you can’t identify with Christ then you have not surrendered your life to Christ. 

The bible says in:  

Romans 10:9 

That If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 

Romans 10:13  

For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

Gideon

Gideon

Judges 6:36-40 

In chapter 6 of the book of Judges we see where God told Gideon that the Israelites would be delivered through him (Gideon). Gideon like others didn’t feel he was sufficient enough to succeed. He told God that he would put a fleece (piece of clothing) on the ground and when morning came if there was dew (like were grass is wet in the morning even though it has not rained) on the piece of clothing and the ground around it was dry he would believe God. The next morning the fleece was soaking wet and the ground was dry. Even though God had showed Gideon how he could trust Him Gideon still wasn’t accepting it. He then again ask God to show him one more time but this time let the fleece be dry but the ground all around be wet. Again the next morning that was so. If you read into Chapter 7 you will see where what God said was accomplished. Gideon believed and trusted the Lord and God used him in a mighty way. 

In the book of Numbers we see where Moses is leading the Israelites to Canaan Land. The land was promised to them, however the people rebelled and refused to go into the land. They made excuses and didn’t believe it was possible to have what God had already promised them. All they had to do is believe. They did not and had a consequence. We can learn a lot from these two stories. Although hesitant at fist, Gideon believed and was victorious. While Moses was leading the Israelites to the promise land, they didn’t believe and had a serious consequence. 

In our lives this can be the case. We may feel God leading us to do something. We may be unwilling based on our feelings. We may think we are not adequate or it is not possible. When we are with God then God is with us. We must always lean on him. 

Proverbs 3:5 says 

to lean on to God not our own understanding. 

Even though Gideon didn’t understand he still trust in the Lord, believed His promises, and knew He would see him through. We to must lean on God. When God calls you do to something trust Him and move and receive the blessings. If we do not trust Him and stay still we receive the consequence. Gideon moved, Moses and the people stayed still. Gideon received blessing Moses and the people had consequences. Always first and foremost believe and trust in God for one’s salvation. I praying that the Holy Spirit will move on you and then you move toward God. Never stay still when it concerns our eternal destination. Once we have accepted Jesus as our savior we can continue to lean on Him and He will see us through every aspect of our lives. We can be victorious just as Gideon was.

Judges Ch. 10

In Judges Ch.10 we see Tola who was a Judge had judge Israel for 20 years. After his time then Jair rose and judged Israel 22 years. After his time Israel once again began to do bad and evil things. They choose to serve many other gods and refused to serve the one and only true God. This made the Lord angry towards Israel. He gave them up to the Philistines and to the sons of Ammon. Since they had refused to serve the Lord and now in the hands of the Philistines for 18 years they suffered greatly. Eventually Israel cries out to the Lord saying they had forsaken Him. God then reminded them that He had delivered them many times before. Now they had been worshipping other gods and turned their back on the one and only God. God then tells them that he will no longer deliver them. The Lord tells the sons of Israel to cry out to the other gods and let those so called gods deliver them. Israel again acknowledges that they had sinned and done wrong. 

There is 2 things we can look at and learn in this passage. 

1) People call on God only in a time of need. 

2) Everyone in some way has idols or false gods in there life. 

The lesson to be learned here is don’t pick and choose when we will serve God. If we are a child of God then He is our Heavenly Father. We must have a relationship with Him through His Word and our Prayer. Nothing that we do should be done minus God. We should never have a relationship with God were we just call on Him when he is needed. We should never give things of this world more time than things of God or God Himself. So many today live for the world and then fit in God if there is time left. The correct way is we should live for God and fit in other things if we have time. Let’s have a relationship with God that is so personal that when we serve, Him or turn to Him, it is not chosen depending on what we are going through or needing. It is a relationship with God rather good or bad. Every second in the minute, minute in the hour, hour in the day, yes every day. Let’s have a continuous connection with God where we serve Him regardless of what is going on. It is not a we need God today but not tomorrow relationship. It is a continuous relationship with our Creator and Savior. Stay connected to God always and make nothing more important than Him. We should never replace God with anything we do in our lives. We should always serve God and nothing else and never have anything in our lives that is more important to us than God. Make sure you know Jesus as your Savior. If you don’t you can never have the greatest relationship one can have with the greatest person in all the world God our Father in Heaven.

When God Speaks

Let's look at the book of Jonah.

1) When God calls we must listen.

We must not ignore God when he is speaking to us.

Jonah Flees From the Lord

Jonah 1:1-2

1) The word of the Lord came to Jonah son of Amittai:

2) “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.”

John 10:27-28

27) My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.

28) I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.

2) When God calls we must obey.

We must listen to God, align with God, and obey God

Jonah 1:3

3) But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish. He went down to Joppa, where he found a ship bound for that port. After paying the fare, he went aboard and sailed for Tarshish to flee from the Lord.

Luke 11:28

But he said, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and keep it!”

When God calls we must make sure and discern it is God.

We must make sure we are following God and His call not our own desire or idea.

Romans 12:2

Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

John 10:27-28

27) My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.

28) I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.

3) When we don't obey we will face consequences

Jonah 1:4-17

In chapter 1 in verses 4-17 we see that a storm comes up and the waters become violent with the ship. The men approach Jonah and after taling to the they throw him over the side of the boat. At this point a large fish swallows him up and Jonah is now in the belly of the fish. Jonah remained in the belly oif the fish three days and three nights. Jonah suffered the consequences of disobedience.

1 John 5:3 

For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments. And his commandments are not burdensome.

Like Jonah what we are instructed to do by God should not be burdensome. We should be willing to obey God instead of following our own desires.

Romans 6:23 

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord

The ultimate consequence to not obeying God and sinning is a separation from Him.

If it is something we have been instructed to do and don’t we will for a moment have a separation from God because we will feel so far away.

In the bigger overall picture if one lives in sin and never repents, never turns away from sin and turns toward God then they will not get eternal life but eternal punishment.

Jonah

Chapter 1  

1) Jonah is Instructed

Jonah was instructed by God to go and preach to Nineveh.

Jonah 1:2

2) Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before me.

Have you today been instructed or called by God to do something in which God would be Glorified.

2) Jonah Ran

Jonah ran from God. He rebelled and disobeyed God.

Jonah 1:3 

3) But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord, and went down to Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to go with them unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord.

Have you ever heard the call of God. You knew what you should do but out of selfishness, fear, anger, feeling unworthy, unqualified, and many more reasons you choose to disobey God. Or what about the someday syndrome when you're waiting on perfection and everything to be all good.

3) Jonah disobedience brought Storms

Jonah brought storms to his life by his refusal to be obedient to God.

Jonah 1:4

4) But the Lord sent out a great wind into the sea, and there was a mighty tempest in the sea, so that the ship was like to be broken.

4) Others are Affected 

Like Jonah’s disobedience our disobedience will and can affect others around us.

Jonah 1:5

5) Then the mariners were afraid, and cried every man unto his god, and cast forth the wares that were in the ship into the sea, to lighten it of them. But Jonah was gone down into the sides of the ship; and he lay, and was fast asleep.

5) The Storms in our Life Will Wake Us Up

Jonah 1:6

6) So the shipmaster came to him, and said unto him, What meanest thou, O sleeper? arise, call upon thy God, if so be that God will think upon us, that we perish not.

When we experience things in our life those things will wake us up like it did Jonah.

Has any storms in your life woke you up and made you realize Gods will is the only direction to follow.

6) Storms will wake us up only when we acknowledge our wrong like Jonah did.

Chapter 1:12

12 And he said unto them, Take me up, and cast me forth into the sea; so shall the sea be calm unto you: for I know that for my sake this great tempest is upon you.

Have the storms woke you up or are you not willing to acknowledge them?

7) Consequences

We can’t outrun or hide from God. When we choose not to follow Him we will have consequences.

Jonah 1:15 & 17

15 So they took up Jonah, and cast him forth into the sea: and the sea ceased from her raging.

17 Now the Lord had prepared a great fish to swallow up Jonah. And Jonah was in the belly of the fish three days and three nights.

We all have had many storms come into our life. The things we go through greatly affect us and those around us.

Have you experienced some things that could be a result of not following God and His path for your life?

The story of Jonah can teach many lessons for us today. We must be obedient to the call of God. When we are not it will bring hardship and consequences to our life. It will affect others in a negative way. We need to follow the will of God for our life. When we don’t we will suffer the consequences. It is only when we cry out to God into total submission that we will wake up and do what is right.

Obadiah

In the Book, Obadiah tells of a vision he had of God’s judgment not upon Israel but upon their close kin: the Edomites. A struggle that began in the womb between twin brothers, Esau and Jacob,  continues in a struggle between their descendants, the Edomites and the Israelites..

Although they made a mends Esau’s descendants never forgot, much less forgave. This grudge turned into a 1,200 year feud over a stolen blessing.

1) We must see that God is Sovereign.

In the book of Obadiah the theme we see is that of God’s sovereignty, which He establishes numerous times by reminding them who is speaking. We see this in Obadiah verse 1, 4, and 18:

 Obadiah 1:1

1 ...Thus saith the Lord God... 

Obadiah 1:4

4 ...saith the Lord

Obadiah 1:18

18 ...for the Lord hath spoken it.

The word sovereign or sovereignty means to possess absolute rule and power. 

We see the word reign is contained in the word sovereignty.

No one has or has the right to have this absolute authority but God alone. We see this in (Psalm 95:3-7)

How do we apply this today?

Obadiah’s prophecy focuses on the prides destructive power We see the consequences of living in a selfish way, and carrying out our own feelings and desires without considering their effect on others around us. Do you struggle to set aside your wants and desires for the desires of God and others? This kind of pride has been part of ones life since the tragedy of the fall in the Garden of Eden. We see in Obadiah a reminder to be under God’s authority, to place our desires to purposes of His. To find hope in being His people when the renewal of all things take place.

What we can learn from Obadiah and can still be applied today is that unless we recognize the Lord’s sovereignty and submit to Him, we will be forever separated from God just like the Edomites.

We see in verse 3 of Obadiah that the Edomites were full of pride. Just like in todays time when we are full of pride we don't believe in the sovereignty of God therefore we cannot Submit to God. We think to much of ourselves and we are to proud. We want to handle all things apart from God in our lives. We see this in (Obadiah 1:3)

2) We must have Submission to God.

The central message to the people is essentially to humble themselves before God Almighty We see this in (Obadiah 1:2-4) 

The Edomites lived in Mt. Seir at the south end of the Dead Sea. A narrow mountainous strip about 100 miles long and 20 miles wide, they considered this stronghold in the mountain clefts invulnerable.

Edom constantly showed indignation against Israel, even refusing simple passage through their land when Israel first came from Egyptian captivity. We see this in (Numbers 20:14-21) 

The Edomites were deceived by their own pride because they felt self-sufficient and without need of God. The word “submission” means to yield one’s will to another in authority. We see in todays society this goes against human nature. We are much more willing to be prideful like the Edomites, which is the primary reason why we do not willingly submit to God. We must not be deceived. (1 John 2:16)

The “pride of life” is from the devil and he will sneak it into our lives however he can.

But the way we get passed and through temptation to receive victory is found in the book of James:

James 4:7-8

7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

Resist the devil → submit to God → the devil flees. 

When we do this we see the result in (James 4:10)

10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up

(3) When we refuse to submit to our sovereign God we will have Separation.

Now we see the worst punishment we could ever receive from the Lord: to be “cut off” from God

Obadiah 1:10

10 For thy violence against thy brother Jacob shame shall cover thee, and thou shalt be cut off for ever.

What does it mean for us to be cut off from God? (2 Thessalonians 1:6-9)

In (2 Thessalonians 1:6-9) we see two groups of people: 

The troublers and the troubled. 

This reminds us of the Edomites and the Israelites.

When time comes for God to ultimately judge the world, two things will happen. First, the troublers will be troubled. These people are those who do not know God, who are also those who do not obey the gospel. In 2 Thessalonians 1:8 we see this (2 Thessalonians 1:8)

 What will happen to these? 

They will be literally cut off from God, punished with everlasting destruction away from the presence of the Lord.  (2 Thessalonians 1:9)

Hell is the only place where an omnipresent God is not. 

Next, the troubled will be given rest. Lets look at: 

2 Thessalonians 1:7

7 And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels.

These people are persecuted because of their faith and patience, but to them Jesus promises the opposite of the punishment. His presence and eternal relief when He comes again we see this in:

2 Thessalonians 1:3-7

2 Thessalonians 1:10

10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.

FEAR

In the Bible there is 2 types of Fears:

1) The First is beneficial and helpful and should always be Encouraged.

Fear referring to God is- profound reverence of Gods power and glory. To be in complete awe toward God as in admiration, amazement, and astonishment.

This type of fear does not necessarily mean to be afraid of something. However, it is also proper respect for Gods wrath and anger. In other words, the fear of the Lord is a total acknowledgement of all that God is, which comes through knowing Him and His promises.

Fear of the Lord brings with it many blessings and benefits. Let's look at some of those.

A) It is the beginning of wisdom and leads to good understanding. 

Psalm 111:10 (KJV)

10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.

B) Only fools despise wisdom and discipline.

Proverbs 1:7 (KJV)

7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

C) The fear of the God leads to life, rest, peace, and contentment.

Proverbs 19:23 (KJV)

23 The fear of the Lord tendeth to life: and he that hath it shall abide satisfied; he shall not be visited with evil.

D) The fear of God is the fountain of life.

Proverbs 14:27 (KJV)

27 The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.

E) The fear of God provides a security and a place of safety for us. 

Proverbs 14:26 (KJV)

26 In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge.

So we can see how the fear God should be encouraged and can be encouraging. 

Fear of the Lord can be very beneficial to our lives. We must also remember that God has Wrath and Anger to those who do not fear Him and does not follow His Word. Of course that would result in eternal separation in Hell. 

The second type of fear mentioned in the Bible is not beneficial at all. 

2) The second can be detrimental and we must strive to overcome it.

Fear that is not ok - is an unpleasant often strong emotion caused by anticipation or awareness of danger. This can be anxiety, worry, and being in a panic state.

This is the “spirit of fear” mentioned in 

2 Timothy 1:7 (KJV)

7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

F) A spirit of fear and being timid does not come from God.

Sometimes we are afraid, sometimes this “spirit of fear” overcomes us, and to overcome it we need to trust in and love God completely. “There is no fear in love. And perfect love drives out fear. The one who fears is not made perfect in love” 

1 John 4:18 (KJV)

18 There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.

No one is perfect, and God knows this. That is why He spoke on encouragement against fear throughout the Bible. This starts in Genesis and continues to Revelation. So lets look at some:

Isaiah 41:10 (KJV)

10 Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

We so often find ourselves fearing the future and what will happen or become of us. But remember the simple verse that is so important where God tells us that He cares for the birds of the air, so how much more will He provide for His children?

Matthew 10:31 (KJV)

31 Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.

We see in these verses that it covers many aspects of the spirit of fear mentioned in 2 Timothy 1:7.

We should not fear being alone, or being weak, not being heard, or lack of necessities.

There is power in trusting God. Regardless of what happens we must always trust God. We must know and understand the Power of God. This is the key and how to overcome fear. We must have complete and total trust in God. Trusting God is a refusal to give in to fear. Giving in to Fear is a refusal to Trust God. It is turning to God even in the darkest times and trusting Him to make things right. This trust comes from knowing God and knowing that He is good.

1 Peter 5:6-7 (KJV)

6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you

Is God Your Light

Is God your light?

Just like the SUN is shinning bright rather we can see it or not. We must remember that the SON of GOD which is JESUS is always shinning with a great radiance. HIS light will never be Overcome with any darkness we are experiencing. He is on the throne during bad and during good and all times sitting at the right hand of the Father.  

John 1:5 (ESV)

The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

1) God is Light

What I hope we see from this is that am saying God is not a light or a kind of light. I am saying that God IS LIGHT itself.

1 John 1:5

5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 

John 8:12

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. 

God is our light that we must always see rather we are in a dark time or not. That time of darkness could be something we cant control. But we must keep our eyes on the Light of God

Something I want to point out here is that yes Light is good and darkness is evil. Yes, darkness is sin and evil which separates us from God. But if we are not focusing on the light of God because bad things are obstructing our view then that is sin.

What if the distractions that are hindering us from the blessings of God by not seeing the light of God is through sin or darkness because we have contributed to the things that are blocking are view of God. 

How do we get past this. 

2) Are You Following Gods Light

Psalms 119:105 

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

John 1:1-4

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. 4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind

See the Word was with God and the Word is God. 

We read in Psalms 119  The Word is our lamp under our feet and the light unto our path. We must once accepting Jesus as our Savior let God and the Word of God be what directs us and leads us in all decisions of our life. To do right or wrong. To go here or go there. Who we associate with. The things that we partake in. When we do this we can stay on the narrow path as

Matthew 7:13-14 says:

13 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:

14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

Ephesians 5:8

For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

Ephesians 5:14-15

14 Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.

15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise

We must let God and His Word lead, direct, and Guide us on the path of righteousness. So we stay on the narrow road and not stray to the broad road. When we do this we can prevent obstructing our view of God because we are following Him.

So we see that God is light and we should always see through the dark times in our life.

We see that we must follow the light and Word of God so we don't create dark times in our life.

3) Do you Need to Accept the Light of God today?

Psalms 27:1

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

This verse tells us that we have safety with God.

Numbers 6:24-26

24 The Lord bless thee, and keep thee:

25 The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:

26 The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.

This verse tells us we can have Peace with God

John 12:36-37

36 While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the children of light. These things spake Jesus, and departed, and did hide himself from them.

37 But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him:

This verse tells us if we Believe we can be Children of God

I Peter 2:9

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

This verse tell’s us we are chosen to have Salvation with God if we accept Him.

Ephesians 1:13 

13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,

This verse tells we are Sealed with God

John 3:16 

16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

This  verse tells us that we can have Everlasting Life or Eternal Life with God.

We Have talked about the rough times in life we can’t control.

 And We have seen that God is Light in any dark time of our life

We have talked about things we can control. 

And We have seen that God is Light and that Light can guide us on the right path.

We have seen that We can become Children of Light, Have safety, peace, fear no one, because we have been chosen and given the opportunity to accept God be Sealed and have Eternal Life.

It is my prayer today that no matter what is standing in our way between us and God that we will always know that His light will always shine bright in and on our lives. 

The Rich Man and Lazarus

Luke 16:19-31 (KJV)

1) The Rich Man

The rich man loved his money. He was selfish and only cared for Himself. He lived a life of luxury. He focused on materialistic things. We see this in:

Luke 16:19

19 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:

Purple in the Bible meant -  wealth, royalty, and authority

With wealth we see this in:

Proverbs 31:22 (KJV)

22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.

With royalty we see this in:

Esther 8:15 (KJV)

15 And Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal apparel of blue and white, and with a great crown of gold, and with a garment of fine linen and purple: and the city of Shushan rejoiced and was glad.

With authority we see this in:

Judges 8:26 (KJV)

26 And the weight of the golden earrings that he requested was a thousand and seven hundred shekels of gold; beside ornaments, and collars, and purple raiment that was on the kings of Midian, and beside the chains that were about their camels' necks.

Kings wore the color purple

2) Lazarus

Lazarus was a beggar a poor man. He was sick with sores that dogs licked. He had nothing at all as far a materialistic things. He laid at the gate of the rich man and He simply wanted the crumbs that fell from the rich mans table. We see this in:

Luke 16:20-21 (KJV)

20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,

21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.

This is so true today. We see this everywhere we look. We see people who only focus on things of the world and not things of God. We see people who think wealth and status equates blessings of God. People today think those who have nothing have not been blessed but cursed by God. This is so far from the truth when it comes to our eternal destination. We have to know that the most important thing that we could ever have attained in this earthly life is the forgiveness of God. With Gods forgiveness the Greatest Blessing we could ever have is eternal life in Heaven with Him. 

3) Death is certain. 

One certainty in our life is one day our life will come to an end as did theirs. We see this in:

Luke 16:22 (KJV)

22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;

4) There is only two destinations once life ends.

There is Heaven or hell.

Heaven - is a real place and for those who have accepted Jesus as their personal Savior.

Hell -  is a real place and is for those who have never accepted Jesus as their personal Savior.

Heaven is a place of Eternal rest.

Hell is a place of  eternal torment

5) The Beggar Lazarus was a Child of God 

Lazarus was carried by Angels to Abrahams Bosom. Lets look again at:

Luke 16:22 (KJV)

22 And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;

What is Abraham’s Bosom?

 “Abraham’s bosom” is found only once in the New Testament here in this passage in which Jesus was teaching about the reality of heaven and hell. “Abraham’s bosom” is also translated “Abraham’s side,” “next to Abraham,” “with Abraham,” and “ in the arms of Abraham.” These various translations speak to the nature of the Greek word kolpos. These examples show that Lazarus went to a place of rest, contentment, and peace. 

6) The rich man was not a Child of God

The rich man found himself in torment for eternity in hell. We see this in:

Luke 16:23 (KJV)

23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.

The rich man had only been focused on things of the world that were temporary and completely neglected the one thing for permanent eternity. The Bible does teach that both heaven and hell are real places. Each person who lives will spend eternity in one of these two places. While the rich man had lived for the day and only focused on life here on earth, Lazarus endured many hardships while trusting and focusing on God..” We to must surrender to God and live for God so that when we die we will live for eternity in Heaven. 

Romans 6:23 (ESV)

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

OBEDIENCE

Four points

1) Obedience shows that you Believe

When we believe in something we do it. If we don't believe in something we will not do it. 

1 Samuel 15:16-22 (KJV)

16 Then Samuel said unto Saul, Stay, and I will tell thee what the Lord hath said to me this night. And he said unto him, Say on.

17 And Samuel said, When thou wast little in thine own sight, wast thou not made the head of the tribes of Israel, and the Lord anointed thee king over Israel?

18 And the Lord sent thee on a journey, and said, Go and utterly destroy the sinners the Amalekites, and fight against them until they be consumed.

19 Wherefore then didst thou not obey the voice of the Lord, but didst fly upon the spoil, and didst evil in the sight of the Lord?

20 And Saul said unto Samuel, Yea, I have obeyed the voice of the Lord, and have gone the way which the Lord sent me, and have brought Agag the king of Amalek, and have utterly destroyed the Amalekites.

21 But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the Lord thy God in Gilgal.

22 And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.

1 Samuel 15:22  - to obey is better than sacrifice

Samuel is telling Saul that it is better to OBEY the Lord in the first place the to do wrong or DISOBEY and then have to ask for forgiveness. OBEDIENCE is Trusting in GOD which is Believing in God and when we Trust and Believe We submit and follow.

The same is true for Us. Obedience is one way that we show God that we believe that He will do what He said He Will do. Obedience is an outwardly way to show an inward change and submission to God.

God will forgive us when we fail.

1 John 1:9

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

We should strive to be Obedient and Not fail. That is how we demonstrate true Believe.

Disobedience is the opposite when we disobey God it is saying we don’t trust him or believe he will come through for us.

2) Obedience shows Love

Our choice to obey God demonstrates our love for Him. 

John 14:15 says If ye love me, keep my commandments.

Jesus told His disciples that if they loved Him, they would obey His commands. 

It doesn’t get much clearer than that! A person who really loves Jesus will be constantly striving toward obedience. Not constantly trying to figure out how close he/she can get to the line without going over. (Or calculating how we will be forgiven when we decide to stop sinning)

It’s our choice to obey that we demonstrate love for God and what a privilege we have! God has given so much for us that if we truly love Him, we won’t strive to Disobey. We will strive to Obey and our desire will be to do anything we can to show love toward Him.

3) Obedience is a Witness to others

When we obey God, our life shines a light that is so attractive to others that they can’t help but see God. 

Acts 22:15 For thou shalt be his witness unto all men of what thou hast seen and heard.

Disobedience to God, is a huge blow on our testimony and negative impact to other people.

Ephesians 4:29 - Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

The question we should ask our self is, What kind of witness are we being to others right now? It’s important that we understand that every single choice we make is influential in the life of those around us.

When we disobey God, we are either influencing a Christian in a negative way or showing one who is not a Christian that we don’t take God very seriously. Both of these are not what we should aim for as a Child go God.

We have heard it said “Christ is either Lord of all, or is not Lord at all.”  Others see our lives this way, too. People don’t and should not have to weigh out the good things with the bad things and try and decide if we qualify as a Christian. It’s either all or nothing. 

4) Obedience brings Blessings

When we obey God, there is blessing to come for us and others. The Bible says that God blesses those who obey for thousands of generations.

Deuteronomy 7:9 - Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;

Look at the Blessing that we have received fro the Obedience to the Disciples. Look at the Blessings we have received in our life once we have accepted Jesus as our Savior. The Mercy, Grace, AND Forgiveness that we have received through God sending His Son to die and take our place for our sins.

Look at Noahs blessing from his obedience. Building the Ark

Look at Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego. Refusing to bow down to an idol and was delivered from persecution and thier death.

The Blessings we all have received through obeying God are not able to justifiably be counted. There are to many to list. 

The Point to all this is:

When we Believe God, Love God, and present a good Witness of God, we will then receive the amazing Blessings of God.

How Do We Get Back to God

2 Chronicles 7:14

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.

Heal their land can also be restore their land.

I know that us and others outside of the walls of the church can turn from our ways and seek the Lord so we can be restored. 

When we look at this verse it says my people. This is referring to Gods chosen people in. the old testament. Today if we have accepted Jesus as our Savior then this can apply to us as well. Yes the wicked sins need to be addressed but if we get down to it things that we may not think about can fall into this. Our prayer, Bible reading, and church attendance. Witnessing to the lost. This starts with the church.

But How?

1) We Must obey God not man

Acts 5

So here Peter and the Apostles where dealing with Ananias and Sapphira. They had sold their possession or land. That did not carry this out correctly they held the money back and basically lied to God. They both gave up the ghost or died.  After this the people started seeing that there was something to these guys and they started bring the sick and blind and all types of people with illnesses and problems. The high priest got mad and put them in prison. That night an Angel came to the and told them to go to the temple and speak too the people the words of life. So they did exactly that. The next morning the men went in to get them and they were not there. They then went and got them and we see in verse 28.

Acts 5:28

28 Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.

Acts 5:29

29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

When the high priest heard this it cut him to the heart and he wanted to slay them. Then Gamaliel who was a respected man suggested that they should let them be.

2) We must not fear persecution but count it joy if we are glorifying the Lord.

Acts 5:40-42

40 And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go.

41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name.

42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.

We see that they felt worthy and continued right on.

3) We must be motivated and dedicated to turn the world upside down.

Acts 17:6-7

6 And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;

7 Whom Jason hath received: and these all do contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, one Jesus.

This is Paul and Silas coming into Thessalonica, 

4) We must be people of Valor.

Back ground on 1 Chronicles Ch. 12

1 Chronicles 12:1-2

1 Now these are they that came to David to Ziklag, while he yet kept himself close because of Saul the son of Kish: and they were among the mighty men, helpers of the war.

2 They were armed with bows, and could use both the right hand and the left in hurling stones and shooting arrows out of a bow, even of Saul's brethren of Benjamin.

Verse 1 

This was a time when David lived in the territory of the Philistines to escape the murderous pursuit of King Saul. These were the Benjaminites, the tribal relatives of Saul,  who come to David.

Verse 2

During David’s time in Ziklag, certain mighty warriors came and expressed their allegiance to David and his cause. This was remarkable because they were of Benjamin, Saul’s brethren. They had much to gain from Saul’s continued reign. They chose David over Saul because they knew that God was with David.

1 Chronicles 12-21

21 And they helped David against the band of the rovers: for they were all mighty men of valour, and were captains in the host.

Verse 21

Mighty men of valor: They were men of courage. They had great courage in the face of danger 

Whatever the sons of Benjamin knew about David, they knew that God helped David. This made them want to follow him.

Don’t we want to live a life that represents God is with us and that creates a desire for others to want we have.

We just talked about the Apostles and David and some other Godly people. Lets look at what happened when they continued to preach Jesus. 

Matthew 

Killed by a sword 

John 

Was boiled but survived. He was then sent to Patmos where he wrote the book of revelation and is the only one of the apostle’s to die of old age.

James, the brother of Jesus (not officially an apostle)

He was thrown from over a hundred feet down in the temple when he refused to deny his faith in Christ. When they discovered that he survived the fall, his enemies beat James to death with a club.

Bartholomew

Flayed to death by a whip.

Andrew 

Was crucified on an x-shaped cross in Greece. After seven soldiers whipped Andrew severely, they tied his body to the cross with cords to prolong his agony. His followers reported that, when he was led toward the cross, Andrew saluted it in these words: “I have long desired and expected this happy hour. The cross has been consecrated by the body of Christ hanging on it.” He continued to preach to his tormentors for two days until he died. 

Thomas

Was stabbed to death by a spear during one of his missionary trips to establish the church there. 

Matthias

Who replaced Judas was stoned and then beheaded. 

Peter

Was crucified, upside down at his request, since he did not feel he was worthy to die in the same manner as his Lord.

Paul

Was beheaded

Philip

Philip arrested and had a cruel death.

Simon

Was killed after refusing to sacrifice to the sun god.

In no way I'm I describing the way their lives ended to detour us from spreading the Gospel. We have to see when they Obeyed God and not man, when they didn't fear persecution or rejection but counted it joy. When they were men of valor and had courage in a dangerous situation. What happened? They turned the world upside down with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Sadly what is happening now is the world is turning the Gospel of Jesus Christ upside down. If we can get on fire for God and

1) Obey God and not man

2) Not fear persecution or rejection 

3)  Be Men and Women of Valor

We can then again

4) Turn the world upside down with the Gospel message

That equal what?

2 Chronicles 7:14

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.