“The Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ” 12/18/2016 written by bruce r. mills

Posted on December 19, 2016 by Godsmanforever

      “The Gospel of Our Lord Jesus Christ” 

                                                 (Revised from 7/11/2013)

           

Written by bruce r. mills @  www.Godsmanforever.com

Here is the truth about sin, and how God’s grace through saving faith alone in the Lord Jesus Christ is given by God, to those who understand and obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…

Romans 5:12… Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned— (NKJV)

Most people believe sin began in the Garden of Eden, but it didn’t.  Sin began when God’s top angel Lucifer, decided to flex his power and wanted to become equal to God…Isaiah 14:12-14…

Sin, by its very nature, is born into every human being, since Adam and Eve fell in the Garden of Eden, to the serpent’s (Satan’s) temptations.  This natural sin nature is part of everyone’s natural make-up, from the time they are young children, until the time that they pass on from this life.

That 3-year-old, who is told NO by their parents, goes right ahead and disobeys their parents at the first chance they get.  This rebellion against their parents turns into rebellion against God, as a child grows older.  God hates sin because it is independent rebellion against God, and will devastate the lives of everyone that remains living in sin…in bondage to Satan and the ways of the world…1 John 2:15-16…

The sad truth about sin, is that it blinds the unbeliever…

2 Corinthians 4:4… whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them. (NKJV)   (More about “the light of the gospel” of our Lord Jesus Christ, later)

Satan is the father of sin (John 8:44), and a master of disguise.  The Apostle Paul warns us about false prophets, and Satan himself, in...

2 Corinthians 11:12-14… For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into apostles of Christ. 14 And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light. (NKJV)

Thank goodness God sent His Son Jesus Christ, born to the Virgin Mary (Matthew 1:18)… whose shed blood on the cross at Calvary, will cleanse the sins of those who are first drawn in by God…

John 6:44… No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up at the last day. (NKJV)

After being drawn in by God, then understanding and obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, the sins of the unbeliever will be replaced with the perfect righteousness of Jesus Christ (Philippians 3:9…&…2 Corinthians 5:21)…as God’s free gift of grace, through saving faith alone in Jesus Christ, fills the heart, mind, and soul of the new redeemed child of God.

Ephesians 2:8-9… For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. (NKJV)

There is nothing an unbeliever can do on their own merit.  No amount of good works done in the name of the Lord can cleanse away sins.  All of our own righteousness is absolutely worthless…Isaiah 64:6…  Jesus warns those who falsely believe that their good works done in the name of the Lord (like going to church every week), will forgive sins…when Jesus warns those around Him (and us) about this, in.

Matthew 7:21-23… “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22 Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23 And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’” (NKJV)

Having one’s lifetime of sins forgiven, is pure grace given to the unredeemed sinner by God.  God’s grace is given by God to those who seek Jesus Christ to become their personal Lord and Savior, through a personal one on One relationship, that is established between the unredeemed sinner and Jesus Christ.

This is accomplished through saving faith alone in Jesus Christ, after the unbeliever is drawn in by God (John 6:44), through obedience to the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, when the sinner realizes they can in no way save themselves, and turns to the Lord to receive God’s grace… (More about obeying the Gospel of Christ later)

So why should you desire to become a redeemed child of God ??  Very simply, to be in-dwelt with the Holy Spirit by God, to be supernaturally empowered to defeat Satan’s temptations, and our own carnal fleshly desires constantly urging us to sin… 1 John 2:15-16…

The Holy Spirit living within the “born again” Christian, has been given to them by God to guide and direct EVERY facet of the redeemed child of God’s life…  It is the Holy Spirit that helps the Christian grow and mature the fruit of the Spirit, which the Apostle Paul pens, in…

Galatians 5:22-23…  But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23  gentleness, self-control; against such things, there is no law.  (ESV)

Look at this list of attributes the Holy Spirit will empower you with !!

Love, Joy, and Peace are the most important of these 9 fruit of the Spirit…

How would you like to have a supernatural love that surpasses your mortal knowledge (Ephesians 3:19)…  A love empowered by the Holy Spirit that will enable you to love even someone screaming in your face, as Jesus tells us to do, in…Matthew 5:43-44…

And how about having a supernatural  joy that enables you to go through life’s most difficult trial, and still be able to find joy…  The Apostle James tells us about this joy, in…James 1:2-4…

 And wouldn’t you like to have a supernatural peace that will allow you to look upon your own death…knowing without a shadow of a doubt that you will be face to face with Jesus in heaven, the instant you breathe your last breath here on earth !!  (2 Corinthians 5:8)

This supernatural peace surpasses our mortal understanding, as the Apostle Paul pens, in…

Philippians 4:6-7… Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; 7 and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (NKJV)

All of these God-given blessings will be given to you by God if you understand and obey the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…  How is this done ??  You must pray to God, with what some call “the sinner’s prayer”, which should go something like this…

“Father I am sorry for my lifetime of sins…  I believe with ALL my heart, that Your Son Jesus suffered and died on the cross, shedding His blood to cleanse away all of my sins…  I believe that Jesus was buried, and rose again in 3 days…  I repent and turn from my sins with godly sorrow and a repentant heart…seeking Jesus Christ to come into my heart to direct my life…  Father, hear my plea to receive Your grace…  Grant me eternal life with You…  Fill me with the Holy Spirit…and I thank You and praise You in Jesus’ most precious name…Amen”

I can only tell you from my own personal experience…that I made this prayer seeking salvation several times before God graced me with salvation.  It’s not the prayer that saves us; it is a changed heart that is regenerated by God Himself…  God knows our heart, and He will only grant saving grace to those He first draws in (John 6:44), who then are able to seek Jesus with  ALL of their heart, mind soul, and strength…

God finally graced me with salvation after He drew me in, and I prayed with true godly sorrow and a repentant heart…  I absolutely knew beyond any doubt, that I was just then a redeemed child of God…  It is God’s decision, and God’s perfect timing, to grace someone with eternal life with Him in heaven.

Failure to obey the Gospel of Christ before you die will result in eternal separation from God, and you will forever forfeit your place in heaven…

2 Thessalonians 1:8-9…in flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know God, and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.9 These shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of His power,  (NKJV)

All Christians who are Walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), should absolutely, positively know for sure, that they are indeed a redeemed child of God.  The Apostle Paul tells us this, in…

Romans 8:15-16…  For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba, Father.”  16 The Spirit Himself  bears witness with our spirit that we ARE children of God, (NKJV)

There should be no doubts for the Spirit-filled Christian about where they will be headed upon their death.  No wondering if they are good enough to get into heaven.  Because none of us are good enough…

Romans 3:23…  for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, (NKJV)    

The power of the Holy Spirit can and will conquer sin, by those who without question, have placed their lives in the hands of the Lord.  The Apostle James says this best, when he penned this, in…

James 4:7-8… Therefore submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. 8 Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double-minded. (NKJV)

My friends, these blessings of spiritual fruit are totally indescribable, and have to be experienced to be believed !!

For those who have been graced with salvation…we must do our best to remain walking in the Spirit…  We see this penned by the Apostle Paul, in…

Galatians 5:16…   I say then: Walk in the Spirit, and you shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.  (NKJV)

We as Christians can only remain filled with the Holy Spirit (as the Apostle Paul tells us in (Ephesians 5:18-20) if we live in obedience to God’s will and God’s ways…  Any unconfessed sin will leave us in a state of broken (or at least hindered) fellowship with God…

To become righteous again in God’s eyes (from a practical standpoint, because we are always positionally righteous before God), we must confess our sins before the Lord…repent of them…and turn from them… We see this very clearly, as penned by the Apostle John, in…

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. (NKJV)

Living for the Lord, with the Holy Spirit in total charge of your life, is a blessing that I pray everyone will come to experience…

Heavenly Father, Your Word is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword…Hebrews 4:12-13… I pray Lord, that You would draw to Yourself those that don’t yet know You as their personal Lord and Savior…John 6:44…  And that the truth from Your Word through obedience to the Gospel of Your Son Jesus Christ, would set them free from Satan’s chains of bondage to sin and shame…John 8:32…  I pray for this fullness of Christ in all of our lives, in Jesus’ most precious name, and for His sake…Amen…

Blessings in Christ, bruce r. mills

If you have any questions, from the USA you can call my cell  @  1-856-430-1448

or contact me by email @  brucermillslast@comcast.net

For those who want to learn more about God’s “Effectual Call” (John 6:44 above), and the only way to reach heaven…open this link-  https://www.gotquestions.org/effectual-calling-call.html

A great app for reading (or listening to) the whole Bible in one year-   www.bibleinoneyear.org

P.S.  For those who still believe they can earn their own way into heaven, listen to John Piper’s audio on… “Can My Good Works Outweigh My Bad?

https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/can-my-good-works-outweigh-my-bad

Posted in Bible, Catholic, Christ, Christianity, Daily Devotion, Exortation, faith, God, Gospel, Holiness, Hope, Jesus Christ | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 16 Comments

“GDD” 5/02/2024 Written by Dr. Lawson Murry for “SEIZE The DAY”

Posted on May 2, 2024 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

I Thessalonians 5: Be joyful always; 17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. - ppt download

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

Written by Dr. Lawson Murry for “SEIZE The DAY”  @  https://seizetheday-blog.com         

Original post @ https://seizetheday-blog.com/2024/04/16/gdd-6/#more-8410

GDD

APRIL 16, 2024

Female hand outstretched with palm up and the word 'Gratitude' hovering above with a stone effect background covered in different colored and sized 'Gratitude' words

 

For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. James 3:16 (NIV)

 

Most of us know what PMS, ADD, SARS and AIDS stand for. Now there’s GDD – gratitude deficit disorder. In recent years this disorder has become a highly contagious behavior to which more and more people are succumbing. The symptoms are easy to detect. If you’re ungrateful, unappreciative or projecting an attitude of ingratitude then you’ve got a case of GDD. James 3:16 describes it in these words, “For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.”

Fortunately, it’s not difficult to treat GDD:

Begin by admitting that you’re disgruntled or dissatisfied.

This should be followed by a recognition of your tendency to see the cup half-empty instead of half-full. Identify any inclination to judge the flaws of others or any reluctance to applaud someone else’s achievements.

Then, acknowledge your dependency on God. Ask Him to help you suppress negative reactions and to see His provision instead. It’s a matter of perspective. You need to view the brighter side of things by trusting God to help you accentuate the positive and ignore the negative. It might even be worthwhile to take an inventory of all the blessings God has poured into your life. List everything that deserves recognition by starting with the small stuff then moving on to the bigger stuff.

Finally, cultivate a thankful spirit. Practice appreciation. Aim to make “thank you” one of the most common phrases in your vocabulary. Use these two words as frequently as possible and add emphasis to them by topping them off with a smile, a handshake, a note of gratitude, a hug, a kiss, a high five, or whatever’s appropriate for the situation.

 

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P.S. (from bruce)  When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com

   

 

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

 

 

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

 

 

Picture credit: https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=782705a13c1e22f4&rlz=1C1SQJL_enUS1066US1066&sxsrf=ACQVn0-skQtTQfJMBJMwF-Y98GQ45rbEOg:1714609761787&q=image+thes+5:16-17&udm=2&source=univ&fir=I4n8Lrp0kgv22M%252CP9hYczk1FpZJCM%252C_%253BgOsF2QBbsRc1fM%252CW7PPX61IO6IDBM%252C_%253BmyFcfmPM_MZZVM%252CVMduIphyvGwf-M%252C_%253BGMDDKWNP0UZo4M%252C4cZfQtsQvY_ZGM%252C_%253BnBwiCM5yyki7LM%252Ccje-YlZVEbOKsM%252C_%253BH8QWAlZo0wuNpM%252CP9hYczk1FpZJCM%252C_%253ByvswwtwJwqbllM%252Cntf8VV4k7m_TyM%252C_%253B7c_UD_l7BWnE0M%252C56e65PaVPvCUJM%252C_%253BD6iTTYcmN0otiM%252Ctf-cuF-NQHA3uM%252C_%253BVHhvcre-Nxq6rM%252COhYpPdOVLCLtnM%252C_%253BZ7MR4SuLVPYILM%252ChHksPcyJapMPXM%252C_%253BqSpYkIUTDZd4PM%252CC-Qc0FKbFYtRJM%252C_%253BHJSvgtzmOLdWRM%252CA9maqncL-CMXWM%252C_%253BuNXnonzbn0294M%252C0bbeaBYwbFJ0vM%252C_%253Bff2q5uVLF1gkCM%252COhYpPdOVLCLtnM%252C_&usg=AI4_-kRpoKPAO0PIzXrNk__8rZJB9LHstA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi5i56O2-2FAxVehYkEHQs5CgUQ7Al6BAglEEg&biw=1399&bih=926&dpr=1#vhid=NKllt69L2UUmEM&vssid=mosaic

 

 

 

 

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“Go Fish: May 2024 Scripture Writing Plan” 5/01/2024 Written by Elihu Anderson for “Elihu’s Corner”

Posted on May 1, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

Written by Elihu Anderson  for “Elihu’s Corner” @   http://elihuscorner.com/

Original post @ https://elihuscorner.com/2024/04/30/go-fish-may-2024-scripture-writing-plan/

CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY, · CHRISTIAN LIVING, · DISCIPLESHIP ,· ENCOURAGEMENT ,· FAITHFULNESS

Go Fish: May 2024 Scripture Writing Plan

April 30, 2024Elihu

What is a disciple?

According to Strong’s Concordance, a disciple (from the Greek mathétés) is a “learner or pupil.” Jesus original disciples were supposed to learn directly from Him, but they were not intended to be His only disciples. When he initially called them to follow Him, He informed them of what they would become:

“While walking by the Sea of Galilee, [Jesus] saw two brothers, Simon (who is called Peter) and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen. And he said to them, “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Immediately they left their nets and followed him.


~ Matthew 4.18-20, ESV

Peter & Andrew were fishermen by trade. They cast out large nets in an attempt to draw in a great number of fish so they could eke out a living. Jesus was calling them to draw people to Him so those people could live abundantly. While Jesus was alive, He taught both by direct instruction and by His own example, so that when He ascended to heaven, His disciples could continue not only to draw people to Jesus, but to teach them His commandments:

“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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”


~ Matthew 28.19-20, ESV

To “make disciples” involved going out into the community and teaching all that Jesus taught. The apostles were intended to be lifelong learners (or pupils) of Christ, but they were also to make lifelong learners as well. Jesus knew the apostles would not live on the earth forever, so the disciples they made were intended to go out and make more disciples.

If you are a disciple (follower) of Christ, this is now your job too! You will need to seek to learn from Christ for the rest of your life. As you are learning there are other things you need to do:

  1. Prepare to Share. The world in which we live is a hostile place. Adversaries abound. Prepare your mind and heart to stand firm in the truth. As Peter writes, “Always [be] prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.”

  2. Go Fish (Share the Gospel). I have little experience with fishing, but I know that in the U.S., most people fish with a rod and reel. In Jesus’ time, fishermen typically used a net to draw the fish into the boat. You and I are called to draw people, not to ourselves, but to the saving power of Christ. I recently read a post by a preacher named Wilson Adams, who pointed out that the first two letters in the gospel read “go.” Are we ready to go and share the good news?

  3. Teach Jesus’ Commands. To make disciples of Jesus, we have to teach the commandments of Jesus. The Lord has preserved the teachings of Christ in the gospels we have, and His apostles wrote several letters to churches and individuals with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Are we teaching what He taught or are we teaching the rules of mankind? Hopefully, we are encouraging people to study Jesus’ teaching and example.

  4. Trust Him to be with you. Jesus promised His apostles He would be with them. He also sent them the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit so they could perform miracles and confirm the message. While we no longer have the ability to perform miracles, Jesus and the Holy Spirit still dwell within our hearts (Romans 8.9-11). We are going to face opposition. It’s inevitable. If you trust in yourself, you will eventually fall. If you trust in the power of Christ within you, you will be able to continue to share His love with others.

You might feel like you “don’t know enough” to teach. If that’s the case, it’s time to dig in and learn. Prepare yourself to teach. Regardless of how comfortable you are with teaching, at this moment, you know the basic gospel message and can share that with others. If you find yourself falling short in some area, start studying how to answer! In fact, there are people that may only connect to the gospel through your witness because of who you are and the example of your life.

You might also feel like you aren’t bold enough, brave enough, strong enough to share… and you’re right! You aren’t intended to be the source of strength. Jesus is the one who strengthens and equips you. Trust in His power and the power of the gospel.

Are you ready to go fish? Begin where you are. You don’t have to travel to the far reaches of the planet to share the gospel; there are plenty of opportunities right within your own circle of influence, and your own community.

I hope you’ll join us this month as we copy scriptures with examples of people sharing the gospel and teaching the commandments of Jesus!

To download a printable copy of the plan, click the link below:

May 2024 Scripture Writing PlanDOWNLOAD

Sara McBroom has once again provided her amazing tracing and copying sheets for your little scripture writers. To download, click the link below:

Kids Scripture Writing Tracing May 2024DOWNLOAD

Kids Scripture Writing Copying May 2024DOWNLOAD

If you have questions, please comment below!

For reflections on each day’s scripture, drop by the Elihu’s Corner Facebook pageor Instagram (@elihuscorner).

**Special thanks to Sara McBroom and Liz Smith for assisting me each month with these plans**

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P.S. (from bruce)  When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

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“WHAT’S YOUR HEART SAYING?” 4/30/2024 Posted by Pastor Randy Burbank for “Kingdom Pastor”

Posted on April 30, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

Galatians 5:16 So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.

Posted by Pastor Randy Burbank for “Kingdom Pastor”  @  https://kingdompastor.wordpress.com

Original post @ https://kingdompastor.wordpress.com/category/holy-spirit/

WHAT’S YOUR HEART SAYING?

Posted on November 2, 2022

Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts.

Ephesians chapter 5, verses 18 and 19; from the New Living Translation (NLT)

Something happened to a good friend of mine the other day and I thought it was worth sharing. Rex is a serious follower of Jesus, and he also sells used cars. Now, some of you may think that a used car salesman and follower of Jesus is a contradiction in terms. It’s not, and Rex makes it work. Selling used cars for Rex is just a way of doing something, and hopefully making a little bit of money along the way.

Last week at an auction he bought a diesel pickup truck. Before he left the auction to bring it home, he added some fuel, thinking it would be enough. On the way home the truck quit and was putting out an error code. I asked him what it might be and Rex said it could be any of a number of things–ranging from expensive to very expensive. A couple of days later I inquired about if he had found out what was wrong. It turns out, all it needed was fuel. And for now, at least, he’s driving and using that truck. It quit running for lack of fuel.

What does this story have to do with The Kingdom Life? Glad you asked. Every person is like a vehicle–we need a source of fuel. And it needs to be the right kind of fuel. You can’t fuel up a vehicle designed to run on gasoline with diesel fuel–and you can’t fuel up a vehicle designed to run on diesel fuel with gasoline. Well, you can–but the results are both disastrous and very expensive.

As human beings, created in God’s Image, there is only one source of fuel that will work in us. And that “fuel” is The Holy Spirit. Human logic or reasoning does not–will not–CANNOT–give us what we need to successfully navigate this life. Trying to live each day by the values and standards of this world is like putting gasoline in the fuel tank for a vehicle designed to run on diesel fuel.

Oh, just one more thing about The Holy Spirit. We don’t advise The Holy Spirit on what He needs to be doing. And we certainly can’t control Him. The church of 2022 has become more of an institution rather than a movement. And it’s all because people are not listening to the error code being sent out by their heart. Our work here is Spiritual Work–and for Spiritual Work, we need Spiritual Fuel! And we need Spiritual Tools! There’s only one source for both of them! That’s why we need to live in The Spirit while living in the world.

For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into his glorious image.

2 Corinthians chapter 3, verse 17 and 18; (NLT)

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P.S. (from bruce)  When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

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“Christ’s Comprehensive Love” 4/29/2024 Original post @ Posted by Alister Begg for www.truthforlife.org from Spurgeon’s writing

Posted on April 29, 2024 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

Psalm 149:4 For the LORD takes pleasure in His people; He adorns the afflicted with salvation.

Posted by Alister Begg for www.truthforlife.org  from Spurgeon’s writing

Original post @ Posted by Alister Begg for www.truthforlife.org  from Spurgeon’s writing

Original post @  https://www.truthforlife.org/devotionals/spurgeon/4/29/2024/

Christ’s Comprehensive Love

The Lord takes pleasure in his people.

Psalm 149:4

How comprehensive is the love of Jesus! There is no part of His people’s interests that He does not consider, and there is nothing that concerns their welfare that is not important to Him. He doesn’t merely think of you, believer, as an immortal being, but as a mortal being too. Do not deny it or doubt it: “Even the hairs of your head are all numbered.”1 “The steps of a man are established by the LORD, when he delights in his way.”2

It would be sad for us if this covering of love did not tackle all our concerns, for what mischief might be done to us in that part of our lives that did not come under our gracious Lord’s protection! Believer, rest assured that the heart of Jesus cares about your smallest concerns. The breadth of His tender love is such that you may turn to Him in every case; for in all your afflictions He is afflicted, and just like a father cares for his children, so He cares for you. The smallest interests of all His saints are all borne upon the heart of the Son of God.

And what a heart He has, which does not merely understand the nature of His people but also comprehends their diverse and innumerable concerns. Do you think, Christian, that you can measure the love of Christ? Consider what His love has brought you—justification, adoption, sanctification, eternal life! The riches of His goodness are unsearchable; you will never be able to convey them or even conceive them.

Oh, the breadth of the love of Christ! Shall such a love as this have only half our hearts? Shall it have a cold love in return? Shall Jesus’ marvelous loving-kindness and tender care be met with only faint response and delayed acknowledgment? My soul, tune your harp to a glad song of thanksgiving! Go to your rest rejoicing, for you are not a desolate wanderer but a beloved child, watched over, cared for, supplied, and defended by your Lord.

1) Matthew 10:302) Psalm 37:23

Devotional material is taken from Morning and Evening, written by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and updated by Alistair Begg. Copyright © 2003, Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers, Wheaton, IL 60187, www.crossway.org. Used by Truth For Life with written permission.

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P.S. (from bruce)  When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

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“The Fruit of the Holy Spirit – What is self-control?” 4/28/2024 Posted by www.gotquestions.org

Posted on April 28, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

What does the Bible say about self-discipline? | GotQuestions.org

Here is extra reading with 58 Bible verses about self-control-  https://debpreston.com/self-control-in-the-bible/

Posted by www.gotquestions.org  

Original post @ https://www.gotquestions.org/fruit-Holy-Spirit-self-control.html

 

QUESTION

 

The Fruit of the Holy Spirit – What is self-control?

ANSWER

The last characteristic listed in Galatians 5:22-23 as a fruit of the Spirit is self-control. The fruit of the Spirit is the change in our character that comes about because of the Holy Spirit’s work in us. We do not become a Christians on our own, and we cannot grow on our own. Philippians 2:13 says that “it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” Every good thing we do is the fruit of the Spirit’s work in our lives.

Self-control (“temperance” in the KJV) is, of course, the ability to control oneself. It involves moderation, constraint, and the ability to say “no” to our baser desires and fleshly lusts.

One of the proofs of God’s working in our lives is the ability to control our own thoughts, words, and actions. It’s not that we are naturally weak-willed. But our fallen nature is under the influence of sin. The Bible calls it being a “slave to sin” (Romans 6:6). One definition of sin is “filling a legitimate need through illegitimate means.” Without the power of the Holy Spirit, we are incapable of knowing and choosing how best to meet our needs. Even if we knew what would be best, such as not smoking, another need, like comfort, would take precedence and enslave us again.

When we are saved by Christ’s sacrifice, we are free (Galatians 5:1). That liberty includes, among other things, freedom from sin. “Our old self was crucified with him so that the body of sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin” (Romans 6:6). Now, as the Spirit gives us self-control, we can refuse sin.

Believers need self-control because the outside world and internal forces still attack (Romans 7:21-25). Like a vulnerable city, we must have defenses. A wall around an ancient city was designed to keep out the enemy. Judges at the gates determined who should be allowed in and who should remain outside. Soldiers and gates enforced those decisions. In our lives, these defenses might include avoiding close relationships with sinners, meeting with other believers, and meditating on the life-giving Word of God. We don’t exhibit self-control if we continually dally with that which would enslave us.

Self-control naturally leads to perseverance (2 Peter 1:6) as we value the long-term good instead of the instant gratification of the world. Self-control is a gift that frees us. It frees us to enjoy the benefits of a healthy body. It frees us to rest in the security of good stewardship. It frees us from a guilty conscience. Self-control restricts the indulgence of our foolish desires, and we find the liberty to love and live as we were meant to.

 

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P.S. (from bruce)  When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com

   

 

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

 

 

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

 

 

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“Family Matters” 4/27/2024 Written by Elisa Morgan for “Our Daily Bread”

Posted on April 27, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional 

Colossians 3:12-15 KJV Put On Therefore, As The Elect Of, 50% OFF

Written by Elisa Morgan for “Our Daily Bread” @  http://odb.org

[Click on the “Listen Online” link and listen to the audio version at the top, including the prayer at the end in the original post link below]

Original post @ https://odb.org/2024/04/20/family-matters

April 20

Family Matters

Make every effort to live in peace with everyone.

Hebrews 12:14

Today’s Scripture & Insight :

Hebrews 12:14-17

My sister, brother, and I flew from our separate states to our uncle’s funeral and stopped to see our ninety-year-old grandmother. She’d been paralyzed by a stroke, had lost the ability to speak, and had only the use of her right hand. As we stood around her bed, she reached out that hand and took each of our hands, placing one atop another over her heart and patting them in place. With this wordless gesture, my grandmother spoke into what had been our somewhat broken and distant sibling relationship. “Family matters.”

In God’s family, the church, we can grow apart as well. We might allow bitterness to separate us from each other. The writer of Hebrews references the bitterness that separated Esau from his brother (Hebrews 12:16) and challenges us as brothers and sisters to hold on to each other in God’s family. “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone” (v. 14). Here the words every effort convey a deliberate and decisive investment in peacemaking with our brothers and sisters in God’s family. Every such effort is then applied to everyone. Every. One.

Family matters. Both our earthly families and God’s family of believers. Might we all invest the efforts needed to hold on to each other?

By:  Elisa Morgan

Reflect & Pray

What would it mean for you to “make every effort to live in peace with everyone” in God’s family? Is there a particular person you might need to approach for reconciliation?

 

Dear God, thank You for drawing me to Yourself. Help me to make every effort to live at peace with everyone in Your family.

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P.S. (from bruce)  When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

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“BABY STEPS” 4/26/2024 Written by Kathy Boecher for “atimetoshare”

Posted on April 26, 2024 by Godsmanforever

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   Hebrews 5:12 For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you have need again for someone to teach you the elementary principles of the. - ppt download

 Written by Kathy Boecher for “atimetoshare” @   http://atimetoshare.me

Original post @ https://atimetoshare.me/2024/04/04/baby-steps/

 

BABY STEPS

 

Posted on April 4, 2024 by atimetoshare.me

 

“Everything that is great in life is the product of slow growth; the newer, and greater, and higher, and nobler the work, the slower is its growth, the surer is its lasting success. Mushrooms attain their full power in a night; oaks require decades. A fad lives its life in a few weeks; a philosophy lives through generations and centuries.”  William George Jordan

 

In the early days of man’s existence, lives lasted for hundreds of years. Today that isn’t necessary because our world population is booming. It took time to build the nations. It started with one man and one woman and centuries of baby steps.  Had that first couple allowed their creator to govern their souls, we would be ageless today. 

Instead, we journey through our existence, taking small steps so that we can reach our goals, evade sickness, enjoy life and maybe even make a name for ourselves.  However, death is lurking in the darkness and will call on each of us at some time. We don’t expect it to come when we’re young, because we think we’re invincible.  Our middle years are filled with time consuming careers and family, and it isn’t convenient for us to die.  As we grow into our waning years, we ferment in thoughts of it until we convince ourselves that every ache or pain indicates some terrible disease.  What we forget is that we have no control over the hour or the day, so we continue to take baby steps. We come full circle in a way.

Now, we are no longer setting goals for this life, but the next.  God has promised every human soul a future – a place where we will be ageless and living in a world without sin – a new world provided for us by the One we originally disobeyed and later spat upon.

God grasps us with His mighty hand. He leads us through this veil of tears.  He determines when we are ready.  He provides a way for us to get there.  Death no longer has an everlasting sting, and we can depart in peace.

 

“INNOCENCE,” By Kathy Boecher

Our lives begin in innocence, we are too young to know,
But even in those fledgling years, we choose the way we go.
Our minds are bright our will is strong.
We think we know what’s right and wrong.
Our very hearts grow black with sin, our souls drift to and fro.

We can’t escape the grip of sin. It grows within our heart.
It’s like a cancer moving in and tearing souls apart.
There’s not a thing that we can do.
Our fate is sealed, our death is too.
Our path is filled with darkness, we have no place to start.

Our God showed love omnipotent. He sent His own dear Son.
To pay the price for my misdeeds – salvation He has won.
There’s not a word that I can say,
For burdens lifted every day.
My soul was purchased with His blood, the work has all been done.

How can I thank you, my dear Lord, for everything you gave,
So I will too in heaven live. My soul from sin is saved.
I give my heart and soul to you.
There’s nothing else for me to do.
I’ll praise your name forevermore – my sin is washed away.

 

******************************

P.S. (from bruce)  When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com

   

 

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

 

 

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

 

 

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“Spirit Lead Mind” 4/25/2024 Written by Dawn Ivey for “Drawing closer to Christ”

Posted on April 25, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

Romans 8:6 The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace,

Written by Dawn Ivey for “Drawing closer to Christ” @  https://drawingclosertochrist.com

Original post @  https://drawingclosertochrist.com/2021/03/22/spirit-lead-mind/

Spirit Lead Mind

Romans 8:6 NLT, “So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.”

The mind is a powerful thing, so we must diligently guard it by being mindful of what we allow it to absorb. We have to carefully choose what we allow ourselves to watch, read, and hear. The things we take in will either help or hinder our walk with God. In order to have a Spirit-led life, we have to seek the Lord and pursue the things that will draw us closer to Him.

Photo by: Jens Mahnke of Germany 

Being in close fellowship with the Lord will lead us to life and peace. Although we live in a world that rebels against doing life God’s way, through His strength and power working in us, we can stay on that narrow path, and keep our minds anchored in Him.

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P.S. (from bruce)  When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

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“Doctrines of the Faith: The Spirit in You” 4/24/2024 Written by Beth Andrews for “Deeper Roots”

Posted on April 24, 2024 by Godsmanforever

“Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

Written by Beth Andrews for “Deeper Roots”  @  https://dbethandrews.wordpress.com

Original post @ https://dbethandrews.wordpress.com/2024/04/21/doctrines-of-the-faith-the-spirit-in-you-2/

Doctrines of the Faith: The Spirit in You

POSTED ON APRIL 21, 2024 BY BETH ANDREWS

The Holy Spirit is one of the least-known persons of the Holy Trinity. He is not as “visible” in the Scriptures, but He is all over the scenes and people of the Bible. We know He works continually to advance the Kingdom of God in the world. But how does He work in the believer? Here is a very small sampling.

The Spirit enables us to know the truth about God.  1 John 5:6 says, “It is the Spirit who bears witness because the Spirit is truth.”  The Spirit is the conduit of Truth. He imparts truth and opens our hearts and minds to receive it.

The Spirit enables us to serve God. Paul said,  “There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit.  There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord works all of them in all men” (1 Cor 12:4-6). The good works we do for God are initiated by the Spirit, empowered by the Spirit, and brought to completion by the Spirit.

The Spirit is the evidence that we belong to Christ.  John declared, “This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God.  If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God.” (1 John 4:2, 15). The Spirit also produces fruit in our lives which is further evidence that we belong to Christ.  “Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control” (Gal 5:22-23).  These fruits reflect the character of God and are only possible when we are surrendered to Christ and filled with His Spirit.

The Spirit is our Teacher:  “The Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.” (John 14:26). He instructs us as we study the Scriptures and helps us put into practice what we’ve learned.

The Spirit is our “prayer partner.” He prays for us when we cannot pray for ourselves: “The Spirit helps us in our weakness.  We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans that words cannot express,” (Rom 8:26). I have depended on the Spirit so many times when I couldn’t find the words to express my heart.

The Holy Spirit is vital for the Christian.  In fact, if you do not have the Spirit you are not a Christian (Rom 8:9). Beloved, you can’t do this Christian life without Him. Thankfully you will never have to.

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P.S. (from bruce)  When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

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“Are the Gospels Reliable?” 4/23/2024 Written by Bill Rudge for “Bill Rudge Ministries”

Posted on April 23, 2024 by Godsmanforever

Our Daily Bread”     http://odb.org/

The Daily Devotions of Greg Laurie    http://www.harvest.org/devotional

WHAT IS THE GOSPEL? Well 1 Corinthians 15:1b, 3-4 tells us, "I declare unto you the Gospel . . . that … | Favorite bible verses, Gospel of jesus christ, Bible truth

Written by Bill Rudge for “Bill Rudge Ministries” @  https://billrudgeministries.wordpress.com/

Original post @  https://billrudgeministries.wordpress.com/2022/07/12/are-the-gospels-reliable/

Are the Gospels Reliable?

JULY 12, 2022~ BRM7

 

by BJ Rudge, Ph.D.

Is there credible evidence that the Bible is a reliable source of divine revelation? Does the Bible speak accurately on all subject matters or is it only authoritative in regard to spiritual issues? How can you trust the Bible when it was written two thousand years ago? How do you know that the Bible is not full of myths and fabrications? Are the canonical Gospels historically reliable documents on the life of Jesus?

It seems anytime I talk to others about the Christian faith I end up hearing one of these questions. For example, I was able to speak with an airline pilot about the evidence for the Christian faith. Although he claimed to be a Christian, he was uncertain about the accuracy of events recorded in the Gospels since they were written years after they actually occurred. He felt the Gospels were probably the result of men and women bringing together different legends and myths about Jesus of Nazareth.

There are numerous reasons we can appeal to in establishing the historical trustworthiness of the canonical (sacred books officially accepted as genuine) Gospels, including:

  • The canonical Gospels are grounded in eyewitness testimony (Luke 1:1-4; John 19:35). The authors claim

    to have had actual contact with the events themselves (Matthew and John) or they had firsthand knowledge of the events through the testimonies of those who did (Mark and Luke).

  • The Gospels were written too close to actual events surrounding the life of Jesus to be legend. The fact that they were in existence during the lifetime of both hostile and non-hostile eyewitnesses would have prevented fabrications or falsifications on the part of the Gospel writers.

  • External evidence, such as archeology, has verified the accuracy of the New Testament Gospels in regard to what they say about historical people, places, and events.

Consider just the following two examples:

First, of all,  the canonical Gospels record that Jesus was put on trial before the Roman governor Pontius Pilate (Matthew 27; Mark 15; Luke 23; John 18-19). Since there was no mention of Pontius Pilate outside the Gospel accounts, many scholars questioned whether Pilate was a historical person. Two Italian archeologists answered this question when they unearthed an inscription in Latin at the port city of Caesarea which stated, “Pontius Pilate, Prefect of Judea, has presented the Tiberium to the Caesareans.”

Second, three of the canonical Gospels mention Nazareth as the city where Jesus was raised (Matthew 2:23; Luke 4:16; John 1:45). Since the Old Testament, Josephus, and the Talmud do not list Nazareth among the villages and cities of Galilee, Nazareth was considered by many scholars to be a fictitious city. However, in an excavation at Caesarea in 1962, a Hebrew inscription was found, “which mentions it (Nazareth) as one of the places in Galilee to which members of the twenty-four priestly courses emigrated after the foundation of Aelia Capitolina in A.D. 135.”

Adding to this discovery, first-century tombs were uncovered around the vicinity of Nazareth, which has led archeologists to conclude that, “… Nazareth was a strongly Jewish settlement in the Roman period.” So archeology continues to demonstrate the canonical Gospels are consistent with what we know about first-century Israel.

A true examination of the evidence has proven that the canonical Gospels on the life of Jesus are historically reliable and allegations to the contrary are false. The canonical Gospels provide us with four different accounts on the life of Jesus. In these accounts, while the authors may stress different aspects of Jesus’ life and have different purposes for writing, they each present harmonious historical information about Jesus of Nazareth.

POSTED IN BLOG, EVIDENCE, FOR FAITH,ACCURACY,BIBLEEVIDENCE,FAITH,GOSPELS,HISTORY,RELIABLE

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P.S. (from bruce)  When there is no other place to turn…turn to God !!  If you’re not a “born again” Christian, is the Holy Spirit urging you to open this link ??  Here is the truth about how God’s grace is received to become a Christian in God’s eyes; through understanding and obeying the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ…   https://godsmanforever.com

To my brothers and sisters in Christ, please feel free to share this message of the cross with those in need…

You say you are a “born again” believer…  BUT is your soul “ON FIRE” for the Lord ??  If not, open this link – https://godsmanforever.com/2020/08/01/are-you-a-christian-in-gods-eyes-and-on-fire-for-the-lord-or-not/

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