LEARNING DAILY

1 John 3:2-3, Dear friends, we are already God’s children, but He has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like Him, for we will see Him as He really is. And all who have this eager expectation will keep themselves pure, just as He is pure. (New Living Translation)

Being a child of God is not some future event; Believers are God’s children from the moment they give their lives to Him. There is a catch with this however, “It has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is” (New King James Version). The Bible gives Believers an idea about what they will be like when they step into heaven. Yet, it is difficult to fully understand what that means as we live in this frail human body. God has not given us a complete picture of what we will be like when Jesus returns, and we see Him face to face. The apostle Paul affirms this in 1 Corinthians 13:12, “Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely.” (GotQuestions website).

When John writes that Believers are not yet what they will be, he is making sure that Believers, even though saved, will not be perfect. The expectation for being saved is that the Believer will walk the narrow way; as they do, they will become more like Christ. If you have been a Believer for very long, you realize this is not an overnight happening. John is writing a very encouraging word about the ability of walking with Jesus on the narrow way every day to transform each Believer and their wonderful future. As children of God, He protects, guides, and loves us with an unconditional love. He does this because of the goal for each Believer to be like His Son Jesus when He returns.

Believers have a part to play in this. Because they “expect” and anticipate eternal life with the Lord Jesus in His kingdom, they pursue a pure life. Because Believers live in a fallen world, this transformation might seem inconsistent and not noticed by them; it is gradual. But God’s Word is a reminder that the end of days is rapidly coming to an end. When He returns, He will make known to Believers everything that has so far been unclear. His return will represent the conclusion of their transformation; Believers will be perfected and fully conformed to the likeness of Christ.

This is a challenge to examine the depth of our relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. It is a challenge to strive to grow deeper in our relationship to Him each day. That means reflecting His purity in our thoughts, actions, and attitudes toward others. Striving for a deeper relationship with our Lord impacts everything we do. Believers are called to be a light in a dark world. The question for you to answer is, if you will desire to grow in your relationship with Him and allow His light in you to shine brightly.

 

LEARNING DAILY

1 Peter 5:6-7, Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time He may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.

I wonder if there is not a desire to be significant, to be important in each of us. That desire is probably in different degrees of significance for each of us. For some the need might extend to the point of others being aware of our significance. That desire may not be necessarily wrong. Biblically speaking, it is important to know what God says about seeking this recognition; stop trying so hard to make it happen. Believers are to trust God to exalt them at the time and place He knows is right.

Consider reading Philippians 2. In that chapter you will read when Jesus came to the earth, He made Himself nothing. God came to earth, born in a stable and became a servant to all. When the time was right, the Father elevated Him to the Highest position in all creation. Peter’s writings telling Believers to humble themselves as Jesus did and serve others. Is it because we are afraid of being insignificant, of not being recognized or noticed that we do not do this?

In Scripture humility does not mean weakness or that one hates himself. It means a proper understanding of one’s relationship to God. C. S. Lewis wrote, “Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less.” I have heard someone else say, “it is strength under control.” That leads the Believer to submit to God’s sovereignty as He deals with their life. It means trusting God and accepting His will, no matter what He brings into your life. That means “casting all your anxieties on Him.”

For Believers to put this into action, each must first recognize their own weaknesses, limitations, and even their sinful nature. That simply means realizing they are not perfect and in need of God’s constant grace and forgiveness. Each Believer needs to acknowledge their dependence on God’s authority and His strength. What would God be able to do through you if you put the needs and interests of others before your own? That would mean showing kindness, compassion, and the willingness to serve others without seeking praise or recognition. Jesus is the Believer’s example as He was humble in His relationship to others and in the way He showed compassion for the needs of those around Him.

To humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God means to trust in the Lord’s power. It is recognizing that the Believer’s strength comes from Him and not from ourselves. 2 Corinthians 12:9, “But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.” Psalm 121:2, “My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” Each Believer can choose their response to each trial, temptation, difficulty, that God allows to come their way as he/she walks the narrow way. My prayer is you chose to trust in God’s faithfulness, knowing that He will take care of you, and you know He gives the grace you need to get through. Yes, His “power is made perfect in [your] weakness." And He will lift you up at the proper time “because He cares for you.”

 

LEARNING DAILY

Psalm 51:10, Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.

This Psalm is a prayer of repentance. King David, a man after God’s own heart, has had lust in his heart for a woman named Bathsheba, gotten her pregnant while she was married to another man, made plans to have her husband killed on the battlefield, and rebelled against God. “He is crushed by the terrible consequences of his own sin” (O. L. Hawkins). Sin in his heart had brought him nothing but guilt, grief, and hardships. This is the same David who had been anointed to follow King Saul as the king of Israel, killed Goliath, and many other deeds for God. Yet, he sinned. He wanted a new heart, cleansed by God.

When confronted by the prophet Nathan, David accepted full responsibility for his wrongdoing. He admitted in Psalm 51:4, “Against You, and You alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in Your sight. You will be proved right in what You say, and Your judgment against me is just.” (NLT). He had committed adultery and murder, violating the commandments of God. David acknowledged God was just and He always gives a correct verdict in matters of sin; he knew what would happen to him was in God’s hands.

David asked God to, “Create in me a clean heart.” He knew he needed an inner purity and a committed and persistent walk [on the narrow way] with God. David knew he had to have an unwavering determination to follow God’s ways, a determination that only God could restore.

It is obvious to me that this type of determination is still as important and needed today. Inner purity is certainly relevant in this world of distractions and immorality that desires to lead Believers on a “broad way.” Let me once again remind you of the words John wrote in 1 John 1:8-9, “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” John is addressing those who say they have no sin. Each Believer should recognize his or her sinfulness and need of forgiveness through Christ. Even the most devout, clean-living Christian still contends with sin, in some way, shape, or form. Forgetting that we have sin makes us insensitive to things we ought to confess to God. Confession of one’s sin is a godly practice for Believer’s and is a source of healing – especially in restoring one’s relationship with the Lord.

This is not about a insincere desire to change but inviting God to create something entirely new with you. Consider the man who struggled with an addiction for many years. Despite many attempts to overcome his challenges, he found himself repeatedly failing. It was not until he fully surrendered his heart to God, asking for a pure heart and a steadfast spirit, that he began to see real, lasting change. This transformation was not just about breaking a habit but about a complete renewal of his inner being, much like what David desired.

David was forgiven not because of anything he did to earn God’s forgiveness. He asked for a clean heart in faith. Because of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ anyone who sins can ask in faith knowing he will be forgiven. No matter how dirty one is, God will create in them a clean heart when he/she comes to Him in true repentance!

 

LEARNING DAILY

2 Corinthians 9:6-8, The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.

Pastor Jonathan Moore spoke this weekend about being generous with the finances God has given to us as Believers. He began with the question: “what happens when [Believers] give?” He discussed the apostle Paul urging the Corinthians to follow through with their commitment to meet the needs of Jerusalem Christians.

In the verses from 1 Corinthian 9, Paul writes about why giving generously in this way is so important. Paul refers to Proverbs 11:24-25, “One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want. Whoever brings blessing will be enriched, and one who waters will himself be watered.” The thought is one who is generous often finds their kindness repaid, especially during difficult times. Those who are greedy or sting during these same times do not. This is seen in both the physical and spiritual world – to receive a large harvest greater planting must take place. It is obvious that the one who plants more seeds receives a greater harvest.

Pastor Moore stated, “Giving stretches my faith.” “God does not need your money; He wants to stretch your faith” (JM). Audrey wrote in her notes that God told Abraham to sacrifice his son Isaac. The idea being that God wanted to have Abraham’s heart. 1 Timothy 6:17-18, “Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others.” “Be rich in doing; be ready to give. Giving brings joy and brings blessing!” (JM).

His second point was, “Giving makes me more like Jesus.” Audrey wrote, “Giving and forgiving makes us more like Jesus; giving reminds us that Jesus is our master, not our money.” Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 8:8 that we are not commanded to give, but giving is a way to show our love for others is true. When we give, we begin to draw closer to God and what He has for us (Audrey’s notes).

Lastly, “Giving shapes my future.” “God attaches blessings to giving” (JM). 2 Corinthians 9:6, “Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” Audrey wrote that giving just to receive a blessing is not the reason to give; we give as we trust God to use what He has given us to help those in need. It is a heart issue.

I would like to use Pastor Moore’s remarks toward Believers being generous to the needs around us. There are plenty of needs around us. The homeless issue is very real. There are needs in shelters that take in not only the homeless, but those who have lost homes, had to leave homes due to abuse, and people who have greater needs because politicians cannot fund the government because politics get in the way. Yes, there are all sorts of excuses for not helping people on the street corners and ignoring the needs of people who have trouble helping themselves.

Perhaps the people of God ought to be generous and let God sort out what the people we help do with what we generously give to them from out heart.

 

LEARNING DAILY

2 Timothy 3:16-17, All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.

I have written on these verses – more than once. Stephanie Newton spoke at Community Bible Church regarding the importance of knowing the Bible is the “inspired” or “breathed out”  Word of God. The target statement on the Listener Guide stated, “The Bible is not just inspiring – it is inspired; it is not just relevant – it is revelation.”

It is interesting that the Bible has been written by 40 authors, including shepherds, prophets, kings, fishermen, a doctor, scholars, military leaders, and a cup bearer. It was written over a period of 1,500 years, written in three languages – Hebrew (OT), Aramaic (part of the OT), and Greek (NT). These statistics were given and explained from the Listener Guide.

I have written the importance of reading/studying/meditating on the Word of God many times. Stephanie Newton said something very important that pertains to why I continue to write this. “Satan has been very successful in convincing people to neglect reading the Bible!” Here is the reason it is so important to read God’s Word, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work.” In it is the doctrines by which God’s people are to live. How else are Believers to know how to walk the narrow way if they do not read and study and meditate about the way to do so? “The Bible is for all people for all time, profitable for teaching the doctrines by which all [Believers] are to live by” (SN). “It is the foundation of our doctrine (what is right). It exposes our sins (what is not right). It provides the solution for our sin (how to get right). And it provides training or ongoing spiritual growth (how to stay right)” (from the Listener Guide). “The Bible is not just a checklist of ‘dos’ and ‘don’ts’” (SN). 2 Peter 1:3-4, “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature.” It is through His Word and the power of the Holy spirit that believers walk the narrow way, continually growing into the image of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 4:12, “For the Word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” God reveals Himself to Believers through His Word; He uses the bible to communicate to humans. This verse states the Bible is “alive” and “active.” We are saved through faith alone, not self-effort. No one enters God’s eternal rest (Hebrews 4:11) except those in whom the message of the Bible has gotten ahold of. When that person submits to God’s power to save through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross, he/she becomes a new creation. Jesus is the power of the message of the Bible. He has the power to save and change all who believe.

God’s Word provides the power for each Believer to “not only to be informed; it transforms you” (takeaway statement on the Listener Guide). Do not be one of those who simply let the Bible sit on the shelf. Take the time to read/study/meditate on what it says each day. You might be amazed at how it changes you and helps you walk the narrow way!

 

LEARNING DAILY

Psalm 81: 8-12, Hear Me, My people, and I will warn you—if you would only listen to Me, Israel! You shall have no foreign god among you; you shall not worship any god other than Me. "But My people did not listen to my voice; Israel would not submit to Me. So, I gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own devices.

The Hebrew people were being led away from captivity in Egypt. They were being led away from a people that worshipped many gods. God knew that where they were being led the people also worshipped many gods. Canaan, the Promised Land would be a place of temptation for His people. He gave Moses a set of ten commandments for them to live by; in following them, He would bless them.  Exodus 20:3, "You shall have no other gods before Me.” The God of Israel is the only god that exists! Any form of worship of any deity but Him is an offense to Him.

This commandment is the beginning thought to understanding God’s nature and His relationship to humanity. Because man violated this when he put his preferences above that of God’s, and sin entered the world. Every act of sin begins with rejecting the Lord’s role as the one and only true God. James 1:14, “But each person is tempted when he is lured and enticed by his own desire.” God does not tempt man to sin, to move away from Him. Believers cannot even say He tempts them when He allows trials to come in their direction. He does not tempt anyone to do evil things. But He does allow struggles in their lives to bring them to a deeper relationship with Him.

The Hebrew people did not listen to God. They began to worship the gods of the society around them; they did not submit to Him. So, God gave them over to what their “stubborn hearts” desired. Sounds like what He does today. People today believe they know more than God and are pulled away by their desire to sin. Where does this thought come from? As James wrote, it comes from within the individual’s desire to do what he/she wants to do. It comes from their desire to sin. Even Believers, who have been set free from slavery to sin, have not completely lost the desire to sin. The desire remains, but the power to overcome that desire is given by the presence of Jesus Christ in their lives. Read on in James’s writing to see he writes for Believers to own up to their desire to sin and hold themself responsible for their actions. The trials Believers face is not an excuse to disobey God.

It has been written and said by others that it is a terrible thing when God allows us to do what we desire. That is exactly what happened to the Hebrews; it got them into more difficulties. The world is not our friend! Believers are not to be tied to or desire the things of this world. God responds to rebellion by allowing the natural consequences of our choices. Choose to follow what God has written in His Word – read it, study it, and meditate on it. Be obedient to what it says by walking the narrow way with Jesus. Allow the Holy Spirit to be your guide every day. When you mess up, admit it, knowing that He is faithful to forgive and restore fellowship with Him as He cleanses you of all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).

Walking the narrow way is not easy. Jesus said it would be difficult. Do not use the difficulty as an excuse to do what you want!

 

LEARNING DAILY

Psalm 51:15-17, Open my lips, Lord, and my mouth will declare Your praise. You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it; You do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart You, God, will not despise.

Psalm 51 has been thought to be written after Nathan the prophet had confronted David about his sin with Bathsheba (David Jeremiah Study Bible). David wrote that his sin(s) had kept him from offering genuine praise to God. Isaiah 29:13 tells us, “The Lord says: "These people come near to Me with their mouths and honor Me with their lips, but their hearts are far from Me. Their worship of Me is based on merely human rules they have been taught.” “God’s people were coming before Him in prayer, worship, song, and praise even though their hearts were not committed to Him or His Word. They acted as if God’s revelation and His righteous standards were not obligatory. Instead of cherishing God and His Word, they filled their lives with the religious rituals and traditions taught by their leaders and lived for themselves” (Life in the Spirit Study Bible). I do not want that to be a description of Believers today; I fear it is, however.

Hebrews 10:4, “It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.” The sacrifice of animals was symbolic of the new covenant to come. The sacrifice of animals did not fix the internal problem of sin; God’s promise of a new covenant that He would write on the hearts and minds of His people would correct this. These physical rituals were meant to show people their need for a perfect sacrifice that would be a permanent and personal cleansing from sin. The joy of the knowledge of the salvation Jesus Christ brings through His sacrifice is expressed through our heartfelt gratitude and praise to Him.

The service a Believer offers to God, the works they do for Him are done from a heart filled with His praise. Anything done with a heart filled with rebellion toward Him is worthless. “You do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.” In Matthew 15:7-9, Jesus applies what the Lord said about the religious leaders of Isaiah’s day to the Pharisees – Jesus called the hypocrites to their face because they were practicing traditions before applying God’s actual commands. Jesus told the Pharisees they were only going through the motions of religion, saying all the right things at the right times. However, they were not committed to God in their hearts. In verse 9, Jesus completes the quote from Isaiah by saying the Pharisees’ worship of God was meaningless. It had no meaning because they were teaching their own traditions and doctrines of men.

Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for their insincere worship. He told them the outward appearances and practices did not reflect the true condition of their heart. He told them that true worship comes from a genuine and sincere heart, not by going through religious motions. It is good for every Believer to evaluate their worship and be sure it is coming from a place of authenticity and love for God.

In Psalm 51:10 David wrote, “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” That should be our prayer as well!

 

LEARNING DAILY

Ezekiel 36:24, I will take you from the nations and gather you from all the countries and bring you into your own land.

Today we will conclude the message given this past weekend by Pastor Ed Newton on the rapture and return of the Lord Jesus Christ. In the last page of the blog Pastor was discussing the signs that would be seen before these events occurred. Basically, the eyes of the world would be on the Middle East. That has been the case since Ezekiel’s prophecy was fulfilled. On May 14, 1948, Israel became a nation. God had gathered His people who had been scattered around the world to a portion of the land He had promised Abraham. This area has been a source of war and rumor of war since that time. It has drawn the interest from a coalition of nations including Russia, China, and Middle Eastern nations – you might want to take the time to read the prophecy found in Ezekiel 38-39.

There is also growing provision for the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. There is talk about a New Dome of the Rock being built elsewhere; so far there has only been discussion on this. However, preparation has begun by a group known as the Temple Institute in Jerusalem. “The Institute has secured substantial funding and successfully recreated numerous temple implements according to biblical specifications, including the menorah, altar of incense, and table of showbread - items that are essential for temple worship and were specifically commanded by God in Exodus. Additionally, the Institute has constructed a modular altar that can be quickly assembled, making it possible to resume sacrificial worship when circumstances permit. These developments collectively mark a historic milestone in the preparation for the Third Temple's construction and its role in end-time events. In a significant development, five red heifers were transported from Texas to Israel in September 2022, marking the first qualified red heifers in over 2,000 years according to both the Jerusalem Post, Al Jazeera, and the Temple Institute. This achievement represents a crucial milestone in Third Temple preparations, as the ashes of a red heifer are essential for purifying both the temple site and the priests who will serve in it, according to Numbers 19:2-10. Without this purification ritual, the construction and operation of the Third Temple would be considered ritually invalid under Jewish law (from a January 1, 2025 internet article).

Before the return of Jesus, a man of lawlessness who rejects all moral authority (2 Thessalonians 2:3) will rise to power. He will exalt himself above all gods (Revelation 13:5-6), demanding all who are on earth to worship him. His leadership will be deceptive; he will strategically gain control of the world’s military, economy, and what happens in the world (Daniel 7-8). He will perform counterfeit miracles (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10, Revelation 13:13-14) and set himself up to be worshipped in the temple (Revelation 13:5). This was information on the Listener Guide!

The return of Christ will be the end of the devil’s rule on earth. Satan will be bound for 1,000 years, let loose to deceive as many as possible before finally being cast into the lake of fire and brimstone for eternity! What comes after the return of Jesus Christ is judgment. At the beginning of the Millennial reign of Christ is the Judgment Seat of Christ – this is not a judgment of salvation. It is a “distribution of gifts based on what Believers have done for the body of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10)” (EN). After Satan has been thrown into the lake of fire and brimstone, those who have never given their lives to Christ, those who do not have their names written in the Lamb’s Book of Life will be “removed from heaven for eternity” (EN).

Believer get ready and stay ready! Ready or not, here I come!”

 

LEARNING DAILY

Revelation 1:7, Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him, and all tribes of the earth will wail on account of Him. Even so. Amen.

Pastor Ed Newton continued his message by saying, “The return of Jesus is going to be visible.” The return of Jesus is going to consist of two events – the rapture of the church and the Second Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. In the rapture, all Believers [and only Believers] will “go up” to meet Him in the clouds; this will occur when the horn (the shofar?) is blown. Be ready. Be listening. There are three thoughts on when the rapture will occur – before the tribulation, mid-tribulation, and post tribulation. I believe the rapture will occur before the tribulation!

All Believers will come down to earth when King Jesus returns. He will be riding on a white horse, coming in righteousness to judge and make war on the Antichrist and his followers; the whole world will see His return (Revelation 19:11-16).

I have recently addressed that no one knows the time or day of Jesus’ return. Pastor clearly stated the reason for this is to prevent idleness on the part of the Believer. If they knew the time and date, people would not live holy lives until just before Jesus returned. He wants us to live righteous and holy lives right now (EN).

The disciples said, “Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when all these things are about to be accomplished?" (Mark 13:4 and from the Listener Guide). Jesus did not tell them when, but He did give indicators or descriptions of the times when His return was near. I am going to list what Pastor had on the Listener Guide; I want you to just take a moment with each to consider if we are in those times. One world government – “peace, provision, and protection being promised” (EN). Think about United Nation’s organizations during covid. How easy was it to shut down government, the economy, and bring regulations to people’s lives. Think about the economy today and the ability to buy and sell. Have you heard any talk of one world currency? What about digital money or just getting rid of money and using cards or apps on the phone you use? Think about the talk regarding biometrics that would “be easier, more convenient forms of identification for buying and selling (Mark of the Beast in Revelation 13:16-18)?

Pastor mentioned the “groaning of creation and culture.” That includes the geopolitical upheaval in the world, along with war and the rumor of war. Pay attention to what is happening with Russia, China, and Iran regarding the Middle East! Matthew 24:7 continues the groaning of creation by including plagues, famines, and earthquakes. Anyone else thinking about frequency and severity of these happenings around the world? Read again   2 Timothy 3:1-5 and 4:3-4 and consider the thought that “holiness is outdated – you can live like hell and still claim to be a Believer ready for heaven. Consider the belief that you can have Jesus without surrender, forgiveness without repentance, heaven without a cross, love without Lordship, grace with no call to godliness” (EN – he was preaching!). He continued, “Grace gives me the power to look at my sin and stop! Jesus did not call us to discover ourselves; He called us to die to ourselves that He would rule and reign with us. These verses written to Timothy by Paul were written for Church people. There is moral collapse in the pulpit today in the name of cultural relevance, the message of repentance is being replaced by the message of acceptance and affirmation of lifestyle. There is silence on sin because of fear of being called judgmental.

Wake up! Ready or not, Jesus is coming!

 

LEARNING DAILY

Revelation 22:20, He who testifies to these things says, "Surely I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!

I have been waiting somewhat patiently for Pastor Ed Newton to address the issue of the rapture considering those who are “prophetically” giving dates for when this will occur. Pastor Newton addressed this by saying, “If one gives a date it is going to be the wrong date. If someone would by happenstance get it right, God would no doubt change the day.” So far, every person who has said a certain day the rapture would occur has been wrong. May I suggest to stop believing in these predictions and know that no one knows the time nor date when the rapture will occur (Mark 13:32). Pastor Newton’s suggestion is the only right way for Believers to live regarding the rapture. “Get ready and stay ready!”

Pastor introduced his message by relating the game we have all played with our kids – hide and seek. Indulge me a moment to relate playing this game with my daughters and with my four grandkids. Like pastor playing with his kids, my daughters and grandkids hid in pretty much the same places. When the countdown was ready, I would announce, “ready or not, here I come.” Yes, there would be the pretending that they were well hidden, and I was having trouble finding them. As I would say out loud that I was having trouble, there was always giggling. When found there would be lots of surprise exclamations and laughter. You remember, right?

Pastor made it clear that Jesus knows exactly where each person is. He also made it clear that each believer needs to be ready for the trumpet to sound when the Lord Jesus calls His faithful to meet Him in the air. Jesus is saying, “Ready or not, here I come!” Why does He tarry? Why does He delay? “Perhaps He is wanting just one more person to be saved.” (EN).

Pastor began with the illustration of the Jewish tradition of marriage. The groom would begin preparing a place for he and his bride in his father’s house. He would work on this until his father said the preparation was complete. At that time the groom would announce he was going to get his bride by blowing the shofar, gathering his groomsmen, and going to get his bride. His bride would not know when this would happen, not until the shofar was blown. She had to always be ready.

"Surely I am coming soon." John 14:3, “When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am.” When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. Do you see the relationship between Jesus and His bride, the Church, His faithful Believers? “There are 300 references of the return of Christ in the New Testament” (Listener Guide). The Lord Jesus wants us to know and keep this close to our heart – our Savior, our King and our Lord is coming back for His Followers, His Church, His bride! We are to eagerly be watching and waiting; it is the blessed hope of the Believer! Titus 2:11-13, “For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people. And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with wisdom, righteousness, and devotion to God, while we look forward with hope to that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed.” (NLT).

More tomorrow regarding what Pastor Newton had to say.

 

LEARNING DAILY

Psalm 77:11, I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old.

I might remember things of the past too much. I like to remember the good times, things that happened that I enjoyed so much, the times when I messed up and the Lord brought me through them. It is not good to live in the past; just remembering those times is enough. This verse might be an invitation to take a moment to reflect to remember times that were stressful and think about what you learned, the wisdom you gained from going through the experiences you had. Doing so might guide you through the situations or circumstances that you are facing today. Do not forget the Lord’s hand in guiding you through past experiences, perhaps even a miracle He may have performed for you. Remembering helps you to know that you are not alone in your circumstances. There is hope and assurance in remembering as present day circumstances are being faced.

I read Psalm 106 this morning in my devotions. In that Psalm the people of God “did not remember,” “they soon forgot,” “they complained,” “they provoked Him to anger,” are words written about the Israelite’s failure to remember what God had done for them after leading them out of captivity in Egypt. Each time, He saved them “for His name’s sake.” They became so focused on trying to understand their circumstances that all they saw were the negatives of their situations. The result was to desire the life they had in Egypt, what they thought was good; they did not listen to the voice of the Lord. Soon they were mixing their beliefs with the gods of the land God had given them.

My point this morning is to never forget what God has done in your life. Doing so only strengthens the Believer’s faith, it causes him/her to live a life of gratitude for what He has done. This is especially needed during difficult times being faced today. We forget too easily! This verse from the Psalms encourages Believers to relate God’s presence and guidance today because He has done so in the past. Hebrews 13:8, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” His character does not change – that is something to anchor your faith with!

Are you going through something difficult? Take time to remember and meditate on God’s love, His power, and His sovereignty over all things. When doing that moves your present difficulties over to knowing how great God is. Trust in Him and be grateful by acknowledging God does work in your situations for His glory, in His way, and in His time. It is important to remember the impact of the Lord Jesus Christ on your life, on your journey of the narrow way. Every Believer has had those times when God has interceded in their life by saving them, answering prayers, and given you His wonderful grace. The psalmist found comfort in remembering all God had done for him. Every Believer can find that comfort as well!

 

LEARNING DAILY

Proverbs 14:15, The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.

Pastor Ed Newton has finished a sermon series on the book of Galatians. The members of the Galatian churches were gullible; they did not cling to the gospel message preached by Paul. They had begun to be influenced by false teachers that were teaching to be saved, one had to be circumcised, and they had to be following the teachings of Moses (the Law). Paul wrote in Galatians 1:9, “As we have said before, even now I say again: if anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you received, he is to be accursed!” Paul goes on to write that these false teachers were trying to please men rather than God. False teachers have been in the world for many years.

Paul also wrote several letters to Timothy. In 2 Timothy 4:3-4, he wrote, “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.” I am afraid this time has come. There are those in churches who are not preaching sound doctrine; they are preaching error and teachings that which is contrary to what is in the Bible. Those who seek these churches have grown tired of what the Bible says, they have rejected it as no longer relevant. This happens when the desire to satisfy “itching ears” with that which tells them they are good people, and that is enough to get them into heaven; they do not want to hear they are an imperfect people who need a Savior to go to heaven.

This verse from Proverbs tells each of the importance of critical thinking and discernment in our decision-making process. It also shows the importance of being like the Bereans in Acts 17 who “searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things are so” [that which was preached to them]. The gullible are those who believe everything they hear without questioning or thinking about what they see or hear and are easily misled or taken advantage of. The prudent, on the other hand, carefully consider what they have heard and carefully consider their steps before acting on it. I would add that this is important for everything you read or watch on social media – including this blog. Do not follow anything that does not line up with God’s Word.

The last days – which I believe we are in – will see an increase in false teachers and those who will seek to mislead those who are not well versed in God’s Word. Do you see the importance for reading/studying/meditating on the Word and being in prayer. Discernment is essential for every Believer in the time we live in. The Holy Spirit will alert you when something is not right, when false teaching is being presented, when you need to be alert. Believers cannot walk with unquestioning acceptance of everything they hear or read or see.

Being prudent expresses the value of thinking something through with careful planning and considering what might happen rather than being impulsive. That includes seeking God’s wisdom as seen in James 1:5. Proverbs 14:15 reflects the wise Believer embracing discernment and prudence as they walk the narrow way. Spiritual discernment is grounded in the wisdom from above. Do not be gullible and believe everything you hear. Be as the Bereans and check God’s Word to be sure you have heard and are walking in truth!

 

LEARNING DAILY

Hebrews 12:2, Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

In Hebrews chapter 11 the writer has given a list of examples Believers can look to as examples of faith. He then states that Believers are in a race and it is best to get rid of everything that hinders them from running and finishing the race. If you, as a Believer, are serious about running this race (walking the narrow way), it is going to be a great help to you if you do not carry any baggage as you go. I have run a few half marathons and carrying a backpack or running with a cell phone during the run would make it much more difficult. leaving the extra stuff behind was essential to running well and completing the race. Perseverance was essential to finishing the race.

Jesus Christ – the ultimate example of perseverance – is the One who was never distracted from the goal set before Him. Believers must look to Him, “to fix their eyes on Jesus” as they run this race called life. Believers must look at Him in faith, look at Him and His kingdom as their final destination.

When Jesus “stepped” into this world, He became the cornerstone of the Believer’s faith (John 1:14). Taking the form of a human, He fulfilled God’s plan to redeem those who would believe in Him; He bridged the gap between sinful humanity and a holy God. He taught about doctrines that have become the foundation of New Testament which showed salvation comes through Him alone, and how His Followers are to walk a narrow way for righteous living. Through miracles, healings, and various acts of compassion, He showed His divine authority and inspired those around Him in their faith. He showed His authority over creation and His ability to meet humanity’s deepest needs. Thus, He is the Author (Founder) of our Faith.

The Lord Jesus Christ not only initiated the Believer’s faith; He is the Finisher (Perfecter) of their Faith. Through His death, resurrection, and ascension He is perfecting the Believer’s faith as He sits at the right hand of the Father as the continual intercessor for Believers. Satan continually accuses the Believer of everything the Believer does. But Jesus Christ, our Intercessor, our Advocate, reminds the Father of our belief, our salvation in Him and God sees our faith in His Son is not in vain.

Know this Believer. Your faith in Jesus Christ is not in vain! From the birth of Jesus, His teachings, and His death and resurrection He has shown you the importance of walking the narrow way in relationship to God. He expects you to grow in your faith and be transformed into His likeness, empowered to run the race before you with endurance. Philippians 1:6, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” (NLT). Therefore, keep “your eyes fixed on Jesus,” trusting Him to perfect your faith until you meet Jesus face to face!

 

LEARNING DAILY

Jeremiah 17:7-8, "Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green, and is not anxious in the year of drought, for it does not cease to bear fruit."

Pastor Jonathon Moore said Jesus came to give life to those who believed in Him, to give an abundant life. He then asked the question, “What is an abundant life? This message was not about “naming and claiming” what you want, nor about what some preach as a prosperity gospel. It was a message about “rooting yourself in God, trusting Him” (JM). Examine the difference between the man who trusts God first and the one who does not in the previous two verses. “Thus says the Lord: Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength, whose heart turns away from the Lord. He is like a shrub in the desert, and shall not see any good come. He shall dwell in the parched places of the wilderness, in an uninhabited salt land.”

Pastor Mores stated, “It is obvious that trusting in your own strength and confidence is not what to do because doing so limits you in your life. Be planted in the things of God to be your provision.” God wants His followers to trust in Him. How do you do that? “Put God first!” (JM). Put God first in all things, trusting that He will guide you. Easy to say and write; not always so easy to do. Pastor Moore put into three words what I have tried to convey in this blog for years!

“Put God first in all things!” That’s the theme throughout Scripture. In the book of 1 Kings, God takes care of Elijah when he is hiding from Jezebel by sending Ravens with meat for him to eat. Eventually God sent him to a hopeless woman (there has been a great drought) who has only enough for one last meal for herself and her son. Elijah told her to take care of him first and God would supply her need. She fed Elijah and God supplied her need. “God’s provision is on the other side of your obedience” (JM). Elijah obeyed God; then the widow obeyed God by putting Elijah before her own need.

“Trust requires action” (JM). Walking the narrow way with the Lord is about aligning yourself with God’s Word, having faith, and relying on His power to do what He says He will do. Just like a tree is firmly rooted where it gets nourishment, Believers are to ground themselves in the promises of God found in His Word and in His guidance. When Believers do that, there is no need to be afraid of the storms that come in life because they know they are rooted deeply in Him; He holds them, and keeps them with His grace! “Don’t fear! Do what God says to do. God reacts to that just as He reacted to Elijah’s faith and the faith of the widow” (JM).

Pastor Moore concluded with this message is not just about finances. Obedience is the key to a successful walk on the narrow way. It is about putting God first in your life. Don’t give God the leftovers or crumbs of your finances, your time, your efforts. Your walk on the narrow way is about spending quality time with Him each day. Pastor stated what each of us should do – start your day in God’s Word and in prayer. Place your faith and trust in Him when difficult circumstances and trials come; lean on His protection and direction. His Word alone provides a solid foundation, an unshakeable base that gives strength and guidance just like that tree planted by the water.

 

LEARNING DAILY

Galatians 6:7-8, Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.

Pastor Ed Newton finished his series in Galatians with talking about a few verses in chapter 6. He explained individuals are responsible for their own actions and should be gentle in their response to others when they fail. Walking on the narrow way is about obedience to Jesus Christ in one’s life; it is also about encouraging others in their daily walk on the narrow way and supporting them in the struggles they face. Pastor Newton reminded us that we are not to judge others – that’s God’s responsibility. Instead, Believers are to help restore another who has been caught in wrong behavior to walk on the narrow way in obedience. I related to Pastor’s comment, “I’m only one step away from stupid, every day!”

He also emphasized Paul’s warning to be careful when you help someone that you are not pulled down into the person’s sinful behavior when trying to help them. Every believer is to be growing, maturing, in their walk in faith with Jesus so that helping another does not become a problem. If needed, get help from a mature Christian so your own walk is not compromised.

Pastor also dealt with an important issue found in verse 3, “For if anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself.” Pride! “Pride gets in the way of walking with Christ” (PN). Here we deal with the verses above. Not one of us should be deceived about what we do, say, or about our attitude. Each of us is either sowing (throwing out seeds) to the desires of the flesh and the world, or we are sowing seeds of righteousness. One of the things I have learned over years of walking with the Lord is He does not eliminate free choice. The decisions each of us make lead to natural consequences. We must stop believing that because of God’s grace and forgiveness of sin you will not suffer harm or consequences if you continue to sin. To believe that is to mock God; “He is not mocked!” The person who focuses on fulfilling the desires of the flesh will reap the fruit of that investment. Read Galatians 5:19-21, not a pretty list!

Reaping follows sowing! Paul wrote it this way in 1 Corinthians 3:8, “He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wages according to his labor.” God rewards the one who works. You do what you know is right and God causes growth to happen. The law of sowing and reaping teaches us about God’s justice and His mercy. Paul is clear that it is possible “to sow to the flesh” meaning to invest our lives into serving ourselves. Those who do this are sowing to corruption because our ability to do good in our own power is corrupted with sin. It is the same with doing things because it “feels good to our bodies.” That is just pampering sin.

Pastor Newton said “Believers are to ‘preach to yourself’ each day what Jesus has done for you. When you gave your life to Him [and began walking the narrow way], your life became about Him, no longer about you.” “Good works cannot save you; only Jesus can. Your debt was paid. Stop boasting in what you do; start boasting in what Jesus did.” (Target statement and takeaway for the message listed on the Listener Guide).

 

LEARNING DAILY

Hebrews 6:19, We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain, where Jesus has gone as a forerunner on our behalf, having become a high priest forever after the order of Melchizedek.

Why do people drift? In the Parable of the Sower, Jesus said they love the world (Matthew 13:22). In the same parable He said the storms of life; people expect life as a Christian to be without problems. When life’s difficulties come, they can become disillusioned. They have no root, and they fall away (Matthew 13:20-21). The deceitfulness of sin may cause people who are not able to deal with their guilt to run away from Jesus, instead of turning to Him (Hebrews 3:13). There are also those people who want to make their own decisions like Adam and Eve eating from the forbidden tree in the Garden. So, what is the answer?

John 3:16 is God’s promise of salvation and eternal life through Jesus Christ. He reinforces this in Hebrew 6:13, “God also bound himself with an oath, so that those who received the promise could be perfectly sure that he would never change his mind.” He made an oath that He would never change His mind! God’s Word and His nature is solid – He is trustworthy because He cannot lie (verse 18). This is “anchored” as the Believer’s hope for eternity in God’s kingdom because the Lord Jesus Christ has become our high Priest in heaven. He has entered the Most Holy place by the blood He shed, gaining the victory over sin and death for each person who believes in Him. Like the anchor that keeps a ship from being swept away by wind and waves, the Believer’s faith in Jesus “keeps him from being like a wave in the ocean driven and tossed by the wind”. The Believer must ask in faith, with no doubting (James 1:6).

An important aspect of Jesus being the Believer’s High Priest is found in Hebrews 4:16, “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” Believers can approach the throne of God with confidence because Jesus is there; that should give us greater confidence and greater faith to grow closer to Him in love and truth.  Because the Lord Jesus Christ understands the Believer’s weaknesses and pains, we can come to Him in confidence when asking for mercy, grace, help of any kind, or forgiveness. No one understands us better than the Lord!

God’s word tells us the Believers will one day enter God’s kingdom to spend eternity with Him. This hope is the anchor that holds the Believer steady in this life and secure for the future eternity in God’s kingdom. I do not know of anything else that can keep anyone from drifting than the promise of eternity with Jesus!

 

LEARNING DAILY

Hebrews 2:1, Therefore we must pay much closer attention to what we have heard, lest we drift away from it.

The writer of Hebrews is writing to first century Christians who were in danger of giving up their walk because of fierce persecution and great adversity in their lives. The writer was writing for them to be careful in their study of the faith; “they were not to turn their backs on Christ but to press on in full confidence” (David Jeremiah Study Bible). The author wrote they “must pay much closer attention to what we have heard.” They were to do that by being more committed to learning about the Word of God. The danger of not doing that was to “drift away.”

The writer is warning the readers about neglecting the Word of God and the salvation Jesus offers; he is not writing about rejecting it. The book of Hebrews is not written to sinners with the invitation to be saved. He writing to Christians, urging them to pay closer attention to walking the narrow way because of their salvation. Don’t neglect it! Some were doing that and were drifting away. Remember the Parable of the Sower?  The admonition in the parable is to Be in the Word of God and not allowing the cares of the world come before doing so (A brief and rough summary).

In Hebrews 6:12 he writes another reason Believers are to be diligent with the Word of God, “so that you won’t become lazy but will be imitators of those who inherit the promises through faith and perseverance.” When Believers become too comfortable and self-satisfied, they grow careless and complacent, spiritually dull and indifferent with the study of the Word of God and prayer time. Warren Wiersbe has written, “More spiritual problems are caused by neglect than perhaps by any other failure on our part. We neglect God’s Word, prayer, worship with God’s people, and other opportunities for spiritual growth, and as a result, we start to drift. The anchor does not move; we do.”

It is important to understand that when one “drifts away” the suggestion is gradual and almost unnoticed movement. What does a Believer do to drift away? Nothing! That should do it! By being involved in the cares of living life and not taking time for devotions, time in the Word, prayer, do Christian work, and doing little else to support your Christian life, you will slowly drift away.

I am going to tell you how important it is for the Believer today to understand this. The Word tells us about people falling away in the last days. 1 Timothy 4:1, “Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons.” 2 Timothy 4:3-4, “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions.”

As Believers, we have three enemies that continually compete for our attention – the world, Satan, and our fleshly nature. Each wants to make us believe it is more important than spending time with the Lord and His Word. Remember the two wolves Good and Evil? Which wolf are you feeding?

What do we do about this? It may be obvious – we will discuss this in the next page of the blog.

 

LEARNING DAILY

John 10:10, The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

After the two services this weekend I thought the following by Paul Harvey might be appropriate. It was written in 1965; it seems even more relevant to today!

“If I were the devil…If I were the prince of Darkness, I’d want to engulf the whole world in darkness. And I’d have a third of its real estate, and four-fifths of its population, but I wouldn’t be happy until I seized the ripest apple on the tree – Thee. So, I’d set about however necessary to take over the United States, I’d subvert the churches first – I’d begin with a campaign of whispers. With the wisdom of a serpent, I would whisper to you as I whispered to Eve: ‘Do as you please.’ To the young, I would whisper that ‘The Bible is a myth.’ I would convince them that man created God instead of the other way around. I would confide that what’s bad is good, and what’s good is ‘square’, and the old, I would teach to pray after me, ‘Our Father, which art in Washington…’

And then I ‘d get organized. I’d educate authors in how to make lurid literature exciting, so anything else would appear dull and uninteresting. I’d threaten TV with dirtier movies and vice versa. I’d pedal narcotics to whom I could. I’d sell alcohol to ladies and gentlemen of distinction. I’d tranquilize the rest with pills.

If I were the devil, I’d soon have families that war with themselves, churches at war with themselves, and nations at war with themselves; until each in its turn was consumed. And with promises of higher ratings I’d have mesmerizing media fanning flames. If I were the devil, I would encourage schools to refine young intellects, but neglect to discipline emotions – just let them run wild, until before you knew it, you’d have to have drug sniffing dogs and metal detectors at every schoolhouse door.

Within a decade I’d have prisons overflowing. I’d have judges promoting pornography – soon I could evict God from the courthouse, then from the schoolhouse, and then from the houses of Congress. And in His own churches I would substitute psychology for religion and deify science. I would lure priests and pastors into misusing boys and girls, and church money. If I were the devil, I’d make the symbols of Easter an egg and the symbol of Christmas a bottle.

If I were the devil, I’d take from those who have and give it to those who want until I had killed the incentive of the ambitious.

And what do you bet I could get whole states to promote gambling as the way to get rich? I would caution against the extremes and hard work in Patriotism, in moral conduct. I would convince the young that marriage is old fashioned, that swinging is more fun, and what you see on the TV is the way to be. And thus, I would undress you in public, and I could lure you into bed with diseases for which there is no cure. In other words, if I were the devil, I’d just keep right on doing what he’s doing.

Hmmmm, what would Mr. Harvey write in 2025?

 

LEARNING DAILY

1 Corinthians 5:1, 6-7, For we know that if the tent that is our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. (6-7) So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight.

Pastor Jonathon Moore, Lead Pastor at NorthRock Church, stated, “What you believe about eternity will determine how you live today.” Consider what Pastor Ed Newton has been talking about for several weeks – the freedom Believers have in Christ – and you will see some interesting similarities about the purpose of walking the narrow way with the Lord Jesus. “Our goal in the body (the earthly tent above) is to please God” (JM). “What you believe about eternity will determine how you live today. The non-believer is going to continue to live a self-centered life, following their own desires, with no regard for the future” (Audrey’s notes). The Believer will walk with Jesus, following the direction of the Holy Spirit on the narrow way into His kingdom.

Pastor Moore said there are three things that happen when a person dies. One, “Our physical body will die – no one gets out of here alive, unless the rapture takes place. Two “Our soul will separate from our physical body.” To save space I will give Scripture verses for you to find and read. Read 2 Corinthians 5:8; Matthew 10:28; John 11:25-26; Luke 23:43. Three, “We will all face judgement.”  There are two judgments. The Judgment Seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10) is about rewards for Believers for what they have done to honor and bring glory to the Lord Jesus Christ. The second judgment is spoken of in Revelation 20:11-12, The Great White Throne Judgment. This is for unbelievers and is based on whether one’s name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. I know you know this – you can settle this now by accepting Jesus Christ as your savior and then walking with Him as your Lord.

Pastor discussed three thoughts about hell as well. First, “Hell is a real place.” The devil would like you to believe there is no such place or it is a place for really bad people. Even Believers need to understand there is a hell (Audrey’s notes). Jesus called hell “outer darkness.” He said, “this is where the worm never dies, a place of weeping and gnashing of teeth” (JM). Jesus does not want anyone to go there!

Pastor’s second thought was, “Hell exists for God to righteously punish Satan. “Satan is the embodiment of evil; he is behind everything evil – all sin, lies, abuse, wickedness, theft, deception, fear, etc.” (Audrey’s notes). “To sin is to miss the mark or doing that which is contrary to the will of God. There are consequences for sin [even with forgiveness]” (JM).

Third, “Hell exists for God to righteously punish sin. Jesus came to save us [all who say yes to the salvation He offers].” “You must have a surrendered heart, until you surrender, you have a sinful heart. It does not matter how good of a person you are. Good people do not go to heaven; saved people do!” (JM). Read Romans 3:23; Romans 5:8-12. “God is not only just but showed His love by sending His Son to take our place on a cross. He wants each Believer to live an abundant life on earth now and spend eternity with Him. The Biblical hope is living that abundant life, waiting for the day we go to heaven.” (JM).

I’m ready!

 

LEARNING DAILY

Galatians 5:13, For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

Pastor Ed Newton, lead Pastor at Community Bible Church spoke on the fifth chapter of Galatians this weekend. The Bible speaks of believing in the finished work of Jesus and walking with Him on the narrow way is about freedom; it is being set free from the bondage of sin through faith.  “Jesus Christ came to destroy the works of the devil who came “only to steal and kill and destroy.” Before you were set free by the Lord Jesus, you were a slave to sin, living by rituals and a set of rules (the law), that no one could follow. Pastor Newton was clear that the law was only meant to reveal one’s sinfulness; it did not provide a way out of the problem(s). The solution was the sacrifice of a perfect animal. That was the solution until Jesus came and became the perfect salvation, once and for all, for all who would believe in Him.

Building on last weeks message from Galatians 4, Pastor said the Believer’s profession of faith in Jesus Christ gives them freedom – there is no need to try to live under the strict rules of the law, nor live under the deception of the devil who would love to keep you in slavery to sin. This also becomes the threat to Believers. Believers are not to use their freedom to sin. Paul’s warning to the Galatians is the warning for every Believer. You cannot think you can do whatever you want, whatever feels good, and give every opportunity for the flesh because we think sin no longer can cause you a problem. Focusing on yourself is really seeking your own glory. Stop living that way if you are! As a Believer, focus now on Jesus Christ and bring Him the glory He deserves. As a Believer you are no longer free to do whatever you want nor love who you want. No! Set your heart on things from above.

There is a war going on in every Believer’s heart. The devil is continually trying to do everything possible to get you from walking the narrow way. Just like he spoke to Eve in the garden, he is continually challenging each Believer with, “Did God really say …?” The Believer’s freedom, the Believer walking with the Holy Spirit each day on the narrow way is the only way to walk the way God demands the Believer to walk. You cannot do that on your own.

Let me close with an example I have written before. Some of you may not have seen this, and most of you will have forgotten it. It is relative to the point made by Pastor Newton.

One evening an old Cherokee told his grandson about a battle that goes on inside people. He said, “My son the battle is between two wolves inside us all. One is Evil. It is anger, envy, jealousy, sorrow, regret, lies, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, resentment, inferiority, pride, superiority, and ego. The other is Good. It is love, peace, joy, hope, serenity, humility, kindness, benevolence, empathy, generosity, truth, compassion, and faith.”  The grandson thought about it for a minute, and then asked his grandfather, “Which wolf wins?” The old Cherokee simply replied, “The one you feed!”

As a Believer, you must be feeding the wolf named Good. Spend your time walking the narrow way as Christ desires. Read/study/meditate on God’s Word! Pray daily! “Do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh (The wolf called Evil)!” “Through love serve one another.”

“Christ sets us free, the spirit keeps us free, and love shows the world we are free” (Takeaway on the Listener Guide).

 

LEARNING DAILY

Philippians 4:8, Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

Isaiah 26:3, You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in You.

Another way a Believer can avoid distractions is to control what they think about. The battle for the mind is very real. If the enemy can get you to think about “stuff” that is contrary to what the Word of God tells us we are to think upon, we are more likely to be successful in what we do. Paul is writing for Believers to control their thoughts and their thought life should be on what is good and uplifting. God guards our heart but Believers are commanded to focus their thoughts on what pleases God.

It has not been difficult to write on verses that encourages Believers to live the way God desires they live, to walk the narrow way with Him. I have written on each of the things Paul writes to think on before. The desired effect is the same for each. This idea of understanding the distractions and deceptions of the world is about you and me living good, positive, biblical, godly, and encouraging lives that honor and give glory to our Lord Jesus Christ.

Yes, as Believers we live in a world that is constantly bombarding us with images, messages, false teaching, deceptions, and distracting worldviews that are not compatible with what the Bible teaches. These last pages of the blog have been an attempt to remind the readers that we must do everything to reject those things that distract us and draw closer to the Lord as we walk the narrow way.

Thinking upon “whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise,” applies to every area of the Believer’s life. It is certainly a guide to what we read, watch, and consider. That does not mean everything watched needs to be clearly Christ-centered; it does means it should draw us closer to Him and increase our desire to obey Him.

Isaiah 26:3, “You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in You.” Do you remember when we wrote on drawing near to God and He will draw near to you (James 4:8)? When we “set our mind on things from above,” “seek the kingdom of God first,” and think on the things He approves he draws near to us and keeps us in perfect peace. The verse from Isaiah is a wonderful reminder of God’s peace. This peace is not going to keep Believers from conflicts; it is a knowledge of security as we walk the narrow way. Philippians 4:7, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” This peace God gives is supernatural and unexplainable. The “mind” in the verse from Isaiah is referring to the Believer’s thoughts, feelings, and desires. For all this to happen the Believer must trust in God and His promises. Set your mind on the things from above, think upon that which Paul writes for us to think on, seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness first and surrender your worries, fears, and anxieties to God, believing He will keep you in His perfect peace.

 

LEARNING DAILY

Colossians 3:2, Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

Matthew 6:33, But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

The culture of Colosse was pagan and immoral; the apostle Paul was writing to the Church at Colosse to tell them they could no longer live like the world around them. No, they were not to believe the same things the culture around them believed. Instead, they were to “set your minds on things that are above.” What are these things from above? They are compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, forgiveness, peace, worshipping God, and being thankful. Think about the contrast these things are from what the world promotes – anger, rage, meanness, slander, filthy language, and lying. Just read the headlines of news sites or listen to the news; can I say it is depressing. What are the conversations at work? It is difficult to find movies and even television programs that are not full of filthy language, telling us that our priority is to be on what makes us happy, or telling us what we should believe about issues contrary to the Word of God. The only way to counter this is to “set your mind on the things above,” by reading/studying/meditating of God’s Word, perhaps listening to music that lifts your spirit, and reading things that turn your heart to God.

Jesus said in Matthew 6:33, His followers were to seek the things of God as a priority over the things of the world. Believers should believe the kingdom of God has greater value than the things of the world. That does not mean Believers are to neglect their responsibilities and daily duties. When they seek His Kingdom first, they are walking the narrow way daily, living in obedience to Him, and sharing the gospel with others (by what they say and how they live their life). When Believers do that, God will take care of our business – that is His promise; if that is so, why worry?

The question is how does one seek God’s kingdom? To seek God’s kingdom and His righteousness means to live in the ongoing repentance from sin, and to live a sincere and devoted lifestyle Jesus has been describing in the Sermon on the Mount (If you are looking for a great study, take time to study the Sermon on the Mount.). “Seek first” might refer to your motives for doing what one does. If you are doing for the glory and honor of God, for His kingdom, and from His righteousness, God’s response is to make provision for whatever we “need” to accomplish His will. Jesus taught that the Believer’s focus needed to be taken off status, temptations, and distractions the world offers and be placed upon the kingdom of God.

The only way Believers can live according to the “things above” is to make sure they are seeking God’s kingdom and righteousness first. This not only guides them in how they should live their lives. It also gives them the reasons why they do this – God’s grace and eternity with Him. When Believers begin to think on things from above, they begin to act like they have been born from above and have been raised to be with Christ for eternity.

 

LEARNING DAILY

Hebrews 12:1-2, Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

Whenever the word “therefore” is used in the Bible, it is wise to look back at the previous writing to understand the context of what is being written. The writer of Hebrews has written a warning of falling away from the truth, defined godly faith, has written of the heroes of faith – their victories and their failures – and written to encourage his readers of God’s love for them. He is now writing about applying the knowledge of the truth of God’s love. How can Believers apply daily the knowledge of God’s love for them instead of being distracted? The writer of Hebrews writes the only way to do that is to purposely get rid of their sins and hold on to faith in Jesus as they walk the narrow way each day. He writes, “Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith.”

What sort of race do Believers run? Who has laid out the course? Who defines the purpose of the race? I had the opportunity to run some half marathons, 5k, and 10k runs with my daughter. I would not consider them races; my goal was to finish. It was fun running through those cheering for the runners, those witnessing the race. The writer of Hebrews mentions the “cloud of witnesses,” referring to Chapter 11, that surrounds Believers today. No, they probably are not watching; the point is their testimony lives on for us as an example. Their great faith is an example to each Believer today to continue, to persevere through every hardship they might face. This race we run is certainly not a sprint but a longer race, a marathon, where we are called to stay on the course and remain faithful until the finish line is crossed.

What does this have to do with distractions? They get us off course, to lose our focus, to settle for the good instead of the best. They cause us to take our eyes off Jesus. Distracted! Keep your eyes on Him because He has already finished the race and is at the finish line waiting for us. I can tell you it is a great feeling to see someone waiting at the finish line with a smile on their face and a “well-done” spoken!

Get rid of the things that distract you from your walk or run (I prefer to walk now) on the narrow way. Do not allow anything to hinder you or slow you down from the course Jesus has set before you. Paul wrote in Ephesians 4:22-24, “Put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” In Romans 12:2 Paul wrote, “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.” Each day Believers are to focus by the discipline of prayer, worship, reading God’s Word, and a self-examination to be sure there is nothing hindering or distracting them from maintaining a Christ-like attitude and walk with Him – even during trials that come.