VERSE:

VERSE: Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen. -- Philippians 4:20 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Philippians+4:20&translation=kjvTHOUGHT: What will we share in eternity with God? His glory! What ledIsrael through the wilderness and shown upon the face of Moses?God's glory. What is too wonderful and marvelous for us as humansto behold? His glory. So what should we do when we are seeking tohonor God? Give him the glory that is due him. Praise him inglorious songs. Bring honor to Yahweh's holy name by what we sayand how we live!PRAYER: Wonderful and glorious God, you are majestic in holiness,patient with my imperfections, tender with my brokenness, andemphatic about my participation in your family. Please bless me toworthily bring praise to your throne of grace. In Jesus' name.Amen.

Unity in the Body of Christ

Unity in the Body of ChristPastor Bryan Crute There is unlimited power in unity! Unity simply means having continuity in purpose or action. Psalm 133:1 says, "Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!" (New King James Version). Unity is the glue in the body of Christ that allows us to be one. Even with all the differences...different perspectives, races, experiences, denominations, worship practices-we can celebrate these differences and still work together.The three key components associated with unity are agreement, harmony and oneness. AGREEMENT"Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they ask, it will be done for them of My Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them." Matthew 18:19-20 (King James Version).At the core of unity is the principle of agreement. Unified agreement in the body of Christ brings answers to our prayers, fulfillment of our needs AND the very presence of the Lord into our midst. If we agree, there can be harmony...HARMONYEveryone loves to hear a symphony play with harmony by blending separate, individual sounds to create one sound. This is what we can do in the body of Christ to more effectively influence the world in which we live.Paul powerfully spoke of harmony in Galatians 3:28, "We are no longer Jews or Greeks or slaves or free men or even merely men or women, but we are all the same--we are Christians; we are one in Christ Jesus." (Living Bible) Let's wrap up by looking at oneness...ONENESS (one heart and one mind)It would be great if we had oneness in the body of Christ like Jesus has with the Father. We can pray as the Lord did in John 17:11, "Holy Father, I am no longer in the world. I am coming to you, but my followers are still in the world. So keep them safe by the power of the name that you have given me. Then they will be one with each other, just as you and I are one." (Contemporary English Version) Snowflakes are pretty fragile but if enough of them stick together they can stop traffic. That's true with us. By myself, I can't do a lot. By yourself, you can't do a lot; however, together, we can make a Kingdom impact that will leave an indelible impression upon a generation yearning for the validation of its significance and purpose.Let's not just believe for unity...for Christ's sake, let's be one!

SPEAKING TRUTH

SPEAKING TRUTH 1 Corinthians 14:13-25 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+14:13-25Dear Father, God of intelligibility and peace,Let our praying, singing, and preaching be aimed at informing theminds and spirits of others, that they may be built up and respond,"Amen."Give us the attitude of Paul, who said, "I would rather speak fivewords with my mind, in order to instruct others, than ten thousandwords in a tongue."Let us be babies when it comes to evil, but not in our thinking.In our thinking, may we be mature, and may we speak your message insuch a way that those who hear will be called to account, will havethe secrets of the heart disclosed, will fall on their faces toworship you, and will declare that you are really among us.Submitting to your commands of peace and order, I ask this inJesus' name. Amen.

Daily Promises

Daily PromisesBlue Letter BibleApril 30, 2009
But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called [thee] by thy name; thou [art] mine. (Isaiah 43:1)
O church, remember that Christ is the fulfilment of Israel and the seed of Abraham so long awaited by God's people. And recall that you are His bride! His redemption is your redemption! And even as He bears the name of God, so do you bear His own name! He is Christ and you are His Christians! Having been cleansed and made righteous by His blood, you are now counted worthy the honour of bearing the name above all names! Wonder of wonders—take joy, O bride of the Lamb!

ORDER OUT OF CONFUSION

ORDER OUT OF CONFUSION 1 Corinthians 14:1-12 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+14:1-12Dear Father, God of intelligibility and peace,Thank you for reversing the curse of Babel when you poured outyour Holy Spirit on believers in Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost.Even in the confusion of many tongues you proclaimed your GoodNews to every tribe and nation under heaven, with every personhearing it in his or her own language.Thank you too for the gift of prophecy in the common language,believers speaking to one another for their mutual encouragementand consolation, a gift greater than tongues (unless the unknownlanguage is interpreted), because understandable speech builds upyour church.Help us to manifest your Spirit in all things. Help us to strivezealously for whatever builds up the church.In submission to you and in Jesus' name, I ask. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE: Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice inthee? -- Psalm 85:6 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Psalm+85:6&translation=kjvTHOUGHT: God loves his children even when they are rebellious. However,God showed Israel that their rebellion would drive his presence andblessing from them. But with their genuine repentance and theirconfession of sin, God joyously returned to their lives to bringrevival, renewal, and restoration.PRAYER: Father and Almighty LORD, please forgive me for my sins. Iconfess them freely to you now .... (Be specific about sins youwant to confess.) Having you in my life, honoring your Kingdom withmy behavior and honoring your love with my graciousness to yourchildren are very important to me. Please revive me again andempower me to love, good deeds, and holy living so that you will bepraised. In Jesus' name. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE: Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice inthee? -- Psalm 85:6 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Psalm+85:6&translation=kjvTHOUGHT: God loves his children even when they are rebellious. However,God showed Israel that their rebellion would drive his presence andblessing from them. But with their genuine repentance and theirconfession of sin, God joyously returned to their lives to bringrevival, renewal, and restoration.PRAYER: Father and Almighty LORD, please forgive me for my sins. Iconfess them freely to you now .... (Be specific about sins youwant to confess.) Having you in my life, honoring your Kingdom withmy behavior and honoring your love with my graciousness to yourchildren are very important to me. Please revive me again andempower me to love, good deeds, and holy living so that you will bepraised. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Blest Be The Tie

Blest Be The TieAlan Riley I have a confession to make: I am a Baptist. I've spent most of my life around Baptists. Over the years I've discovered that in Baptist churches there are a lot of things that are common to almost all of them. Just like you can walk into a McDonalds anywhere in the world and order a Big Mac and know it will taste the same, you can go to most Baptist churches and find a lot of the same things on the "menu," if you catch my drift. Some of these things that are the same are good. Some of them are not so good. Almost all Baptist churches have "business meetings." If your church has a congregational form of government, I suspect you have something similar to the business meeting. These are regularly scheduled gatherings where the "business of the church" is discussed. And discussed. And discussed. And then that business, usually in the form of a "motion" is voted on. Baptist Churches use Roberts Rules of Order to guide them in how to conduct these meetings. As a child I used to wonder who this Roberts guy was and why was he causing so much trouble in my church? Going to church business meetings was great entertainment for me when I was a kid. You got to see adults acting really, really bad. Sometimes, if you were really lucky you'd get to hear them yell at each other. But most of the time the comments were just condescending or sarcastic and frequently sprinkled with the term "Brother" or "Sister." ("Brother Moderator, it is obvious that Brother Smith, the chairman of our Grounds Committee believes money grows on trees since he wants to spend $50 to spray the shrubbery for bugs!")At the end of the business meeting, no matter how contentious it had been, no matter how close people came to jumping across the pews and strangling their fellow church members, the people would stand up and hold hands across the aisle and sing this little ditty:Blest be the tie that bindsOur hearts in Christian love.The fellowship of kindred minds Is like to that above I didn't have a clue in the world what those words meant when I was a little kid. But I did know what a tie was. It was that awful contraption that you had to wear around your neck only when you went to church. I would have to stand still long enough for my dad to tie it and when he was done he tightened it up and my face immediately started turning blue from lack of oxygen. I could relate to "the tie that binds"! When I got older I came to understand it was a song about how much we love each other, and how the love we have for each other here is a little taste of what it's going to be like in heaven. Say what?? We argue, fuss and fight for an hour or more and then declare that's what heaven is going to be like? If that's true, I think I'll pass! (Thankfully it is not true - I rest in the assurance there will be no business meetings in heaven.) But you know, now after many years of seeing the best and worst of people at church, I've sort of mellowed in my view of business meetings and the people who go to them. Church business meetings are kind of like life. We're not perfect, we sometimes say things we shouldn't, and sometimes we make complete idiots out of ourselves. But through it all somehow God still loves us. And through it all, we really do love each other. You see, I've come to realize the singing of that song wasn't about how things were, it was a statement of how in our heart of hearts we really wanted them to be. And how - praise the Lord - it will be in heaven.So church - and I mean ALL of the church, not just us Baptists - let's stand up, hold hands across the aisle, and sing together: "Blest be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love..."

Daily Promises

Daily PromisesBlue Letter BibleApril 28, 2009 But he said, Yea rather, blessed [are] they that hear the word of God, and keep it. (Luke 11:28)Praises everlasting for that most wondrous of gifts: a man who could hear the word of God and keep it! Sing thanks unto the Lord that by His Son's obedience to God's holy law, even unto death, the eternal blessings of the Lord might now fall upon His people. How fortunate are we become, those who serve the Lord in the faith of righteousness! Rejoice, O people, and sing evermore His mighty praise.

LOVE NEVER ENDS

LOVE NEVER ENDS 1 Corinthians 13:8-13 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+13:8-13Dear Father, O God of love!Let me possess love, for love never ends. I know that prophecy,tongues, and knowledge will pass away, for they are all incompleteand unfinished.When the complete and perfect comes, everything incomplete andunfinished will be gone.Enable me to put away the things of childhood - the way Ireasoned, the way I spoke - and help me become mature. Now I seethrough a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part,but then I shall understand, even as I have been fully understood.Faith, hope, and love are the truly enduring qualities, but youproclaim love the greatest. Fill me with love!In the name of the loving Jesus and by his authority I come toyou, asking these things according to his will. Amen.

In The Still Quiet Moments By Katherine M

Heavenly Father it is in these still quiet moments with You that I see, and I feel Your presence more readily. Help me to always see feel, touch at least some of Your vast creation of beauty all around me daily. Keep me close to You Father, for I will always long for Your tender embrace!
Let my every breath, my every word be filled with Your Love, Your very Essence, let it permeate my very core with Your indemnable Spirit. Let me be the Vessel You use to reach out to Your children my God; Let me be an instrument in Your hands; that all who hear and all who see, shall know You; and shall be Blessed with an understanding So Deep, and a Wisdom so beyond this earthly existance, that we shall bond ourselves totally to You my Lord, my Love,...
Father I know my time here is but a blink of Your eye; but cause me to do Your will, Your works with the utmost humility and meekness. Let me be the seasoning, the salt in your mercies,...Keep me Strong when those around me fall That I may have the undying fortitude to help them my Father, I ask that You use me Father ever for Your Greater good, and not mine. Give me an ever Contrite heart that I may hear Your voice when You call me to do Your will. I Thank You my Father for all these gifts and more which you graceously give to those who Truly love You.
Let me never forget, You are my Lord; and that You are in Control.Give me an Attitude Of Praise, and prayerful Thanksgiving; in all that You allow me to do, All You allow me to be,... Thank You my Father; Just Thank You!~ Amen.
"Till heaven and Earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled." -Matthew 5 : 18"The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite Spirit." - Psalm 34: 18

THE QUALITIES OF LOVE

THE QUALITIES OF LOVE 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+13:4-7Dear Father, give me love!May I one day possess fully all the qualities of love, as did yourson, Jesus, the Messiah!May I be patient and kind, not jealous or boastful, not arrogantor rude, not insisting on my own way, not ever irritable orresentful.May I rejoice always in what is right, never in anything that iswrong.Help me to bear all things and endure whatever I must, to trust inall circumstances, and to be hopeful in all trials.By Jesus's authority I come to you, asking. Amen.

Daily Promises

Daily PromisesBlue Letter BibleApril 27, 2009 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. (1 Corinthians 7:14)O but the power of grace in the New Covenant is great! Under the Mosaic Covenant, God's people had to cut themselves off from the unbelieving and the foreign wife made the Israelite husband unclean (Ezra 10:2-3). Yet now, the grace of God works so powerfully through the Christian covenant that the Lord ordains his grace will actually work through the believing spouse to the sanctification of the unbelieving!This has been brought to you by the following ministries:

The Unity of the Faith

The Unity of the FaithPastor Andre Butler
The phrase "unity of the faith" implies that the faith is defined by its unity. Christianity is supposed to bring about unity. Before you were saved, you lived in a world that was splintered, a world that was fighting against itself. When you became a Christian, you were born into a family that is supposed to be unified.
The word "unity" means oneness, and in this scripture we see that God wills that the church, indeed, the Body of Christ, becomes unified. How are all of us--from different backgrounds and with different ideas and different walks of life--supposed to be unified?
This happens when we grow up spiritually, when our love walk has developed to a place where we are able to be in unity with our brothers and sisters in the Lord. Now they may do things we do not like--they may get on our nerves or stab us in the back--but when we have grown spiritually to the point of loving our neighbor as Christ loved us, we will be able to stay in the oneness of the faith, which is unity.
Every person has a human body. If you do not have a human body, you do not have a legal right to operate on this planet. When one part of your natural body fights against another part of your body--and that actually what happens when people have certain diseases--the body can no longer be effective. In fact, the body may no longer operate. Likewise, the body of Christ cannot survive when its members are fighting one against another. It is supposed to operate as one. There should be no schism, no division, in the body.
It is not the will of God that there be so many denominations in the body of Christ that you can't remember all the names. It is not the will of God that this denomination fights against that denomination. It is not the will of God that people within the local church fight one another. No, God's plan is that the body be one. And since that is true, it is important that we do what is necessary to keep ourselves unified, to operate as one.
The Body of Christ is a big Holy Ghost gang. We are to be unified when we go before the world. If Satan wants to pick off one of us, he has to deal with all of us. First Corinthians 12 says that if one us suffers, we all are suffering; if one of us is rejoicing, we all are rejoicing. When the world sees believers, God's desire is that they see us all walking in unity, prospering in every area of life, and producing for Him.
Jesus intends for our unity to be not only a spiritual reality but a literal reality--something people can see. When this is the case, it will cause them to not only believe in God, but in His son Jesus Christ. Our unity is a sign and a wonder to the world.

The Epistles

The EpistlesII Corinthians 6-8
Monday: Exodus 25-28Tuesday: II Samuel 15-19Wednesday: Psalms 57-59
2 Corinthians 6
1
We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.
2
(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
3
Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:
4
But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,
5
In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;
6
By pureness, by knowledge, by long suffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,
7
By the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armour of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
8
By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true;
9
As unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and, behold, we live; as chastened, and not killed;
10
As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.
11
O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.
12
Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.
13
Now for a recompence in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) be ye also enlarged.
14
Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
15
And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?
16
And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
17
Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.
18
And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.
2 Corinthians 7
1
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
2
Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.
3
I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.
4
Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.
5
For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.
6
Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus;
7
And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.
8
For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season.
9
Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.
10
For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
11
For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.
12
Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.
13
Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all.
14
For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth.
15
And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him.
16
I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things.
2 Corinthians 8
1
Moreover, brethren, we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia;
2
How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.
3
For to their power, I bear record, yea, and beyond their power they were willing of themselves;
4
Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, and take upon us the fellowship of the ministering to the saints.
5
And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.
6
Insomuch that we desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also.
7
Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.
8
I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.
9
For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.
10
And herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago.
11
Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which ye have.
12
For it there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.
13
For I mean not that other men be eased, and ye burdened:
14
But by an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want: that there may be equality:
15
As it is written, He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.
16
But thanks be to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.
17
For indeed he accepted the exhortation; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you.
18
And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the gospel throughout all the churches;
19
And not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind:
20
Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:
21
Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.
22
And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which I have in you.
23
Whether any do enquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our brethren be enquired of, they are the messengers of the churches, and the glory of Christ.
24
Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the churches, the proof of your love, and of our boasting on your behalf.

Daily Promises

Daily PromisesBlue Letter BibleApril 25, 2009
And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house. (Acts 16:31)
The promise of salvation is a gift to the ones that believe on Christ. The Philippian jailor wanted to know how he could possibly be saved and the response from Paul and Silas was simple: believe on the Lord Jesus Christ unto salvation. And so it is! Our very eternal lives rest on the simplest of things—our belief in Christ's power to save us! Rejoice in such things as they are cause for much joy!

Saturday, April 25, 2009
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The Outlook Of The ChurchJothany Blackwood
"Behold, I am about to do a new thing! See, it has already begun..." Isaiah 43:19
One of the hallmarks of the church is that it is the gathering place for people starting over. And starting over opens the door to being a part of something larger than ourselves. It offers an open invitation to all to come and do the necessary work to be better. And being better can be evidenced by birthing our dormant dreams and releasing our issues to welcome in better things. The church, by its very nature, represents tradition as well as signals new directions and destiny.
It often requires that folks change their outlook in order to move into their destiny. This is critical in our Christian walk because a change in our outlook usually determines our outcome. Your current outlook is usually a good barometer of the direction of your life. When God tells you to look at what He is about to do, He is talking about vision. You have to be able to see that He is getting ready to change things.
Next, the church positions us in a posture of expectancy that God will bring a new thing into our lives. Believe that He has already begun it so it can move from the spirit realm into your reality. Maybe you've been expecting something for a long time and yet find yourself in the same place. But when we ask God to change our outlook, then we are in a position to reframe our lives. And we can accept with certainty that the things around us will change, our dreams will come to pass, and our walk will begin to align with that expectation.
Often our outlook is influenced by the people around us. So the church forces us to conduct an inspection of our connections. And this is so important because they can have profound impact on the depth and breadth of our vision. So we have to be intentional about the people we allow around us as they can abort our purpose, just by denying it's even an option in our lives.
And you have a responsibility not to miscarry God's vision for your life. So if you desire to move into a higher dimension, then you need to get away from people who have your problem and around people that have your solution. The church strategically equips us with the power to bring our destiny to pass. And as we focus on more bowing down as a body, there will be less breaking down in our individual lives. And we would be better prepared to receive the new thing that God has promised us.
God has sent a word that He will bring a new thing to our lives. And He will use the church to usher us into a greater destiny in Him!

MEMBERS OF HIS BODY

MEMBERS OF HIS BODY 1 Corinthians 12:12-30 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+12:12-30Dear Father, God of order,You have invested the inferior parts of the body with greaterhonor. You have given the weak parts of the body indispensableroles. You have given some who are unpresentable a greater modesty.Your ordering of people in the body of Christ is altogetherwonderful. You have called all of us to be humble, loving, caring.You want us to prefer one another in honor and to count othersbetter than ourselves. Help me to be this way in relating to otherpeople.Thank you for making me a member of Christ's body, thusguaranteeing that I will live forever in him.O heavenly Father, let his life - his goodness and everlastinglove - be lived fully in my life. Fill me with his presence andSpirit.In the name of Jesus, the head of the body, I ask. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE: I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh myhelp. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. -- Psalm 121:1-2 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Psalm+121:1-2&translation=kjvTHOUGHT: Since God could speak into existence the universe, and since Godknows our names and the number of the hairs on our head ... surelywe know that we can go to him for our help. Let's lift up our eyesand our hearts to El Shaddai, Lord God of the Mountains, and knowthe Almighty sees our needs, hears our requests, and cares aboutour hearts.PRAYER: Holy and all-powerful Abba Father, I do look to you for help.You are the one true source of redemption, power, comfort,encouragement, hope, and excellence in my life. Please give me thewisdom to know your will and choose your will for my life. Thankyou for being faithful through the ages to your people andthroughout my life to me. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Daily Promises

Daily PromisesBlue Letter BibleApril 24, 2009 For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation. (Psalms 149:4)Who can measure the vast, unbounded love of the Lord? Ever is He swift to well up bountiful treasure unto His people! Though they be of the poor, the weak, the foolish, and the ugly, ever does He shower them with gifts unmerited. And even salvation! He makes such a humble people into His rich, powerful, wise, and beautiful bride! Hallelujah!

THE BODY OF CHRIST

THE BODY OF CHRIST 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+12:1-11Dear Father, great, good and generous giver,Thank you for making me part of the body of Christ, his church.Thank you that there are no unimportant parts to the body. Thankyou that all of us are interconnected and interdependent.We have a variety of gifts from you, but all have the same spirit.We have varieties of service, but all have the same Lord, JesusChrist.We have various ways of working, but it is you, O God, whoinspires all of it. Your spirit apportions your gifts as he wishes.Thank you for every manifestation of your power and goodness. Andthank you for every graciousness shown to me personally.In the name of Jesus, the head of the body, I pray. Amen.

What Happened To Our Church?

What Happened To Our Church?Tanya James It's Sunday morning, and church service will begin in the next ten minutes. In walks a young girl, dressed in a super mini-skirt and cropped shirt with 5 inch heels and torn stockings. Instantly, heads turn and people start pointing and whispering among themselves saying things like, "how dare she wear something like that to church service?" and "Did she come straight from the club?"What they don't know is that this young girl was a call girl, who had a dream last night where she was positive God reached out His hand and called her back to Him. She rushed to the church building this morning wanting to get her life on track and turn back to God. However, she sees the people (the church) talking about her and embarrassed she turns and runs back out the door ...back to the streets from whence she came.Unfortunately, this is just one of many examples of experiences that people are having "in church" every week across the country. I believe we have lost sight of the fact that we are supposed to be "the church." It's much bigger than the "building" we worship in.What happen to the church being a place of support, love, forgiveness? When did we become so judgmental that we lost sight of our purpose?Why are there so many Christians remaining in bondage because they are afraid to let down their guards and share their struggles with sexual immorality or drugs or lying because they fear what people will say?There was a time when "church" was a safe haven - a place where one could shed the layers of disappointment, bitterness and shame and through people ... could embrace the grace and mercy of our loving God. Now all too often, people are so wrapped up in their own "issues" that we are no longer reaching out to the sick and brokenhearted.Too often, we come to the church building and go through the motions of "just being there" and leave just as messed up as we were when we came in. We have to stop this and get back to being the church God called us to be. We must realize that it's not just a place for the saints that seemingly have it altogether come to gather each week ... but it should be ...A place of prayerA place of healing A place of unconditional love and supportA place of compassion A place of forgivenessA place of refuge A place of honor and respect And this is not just an attitude to adopt when you walk into the church building ... but we as the church need to be this way at all times. What do your words and actions say about "the church" on your job, in your neighborhoods or in the marketplace? Can a person that is in search of God follow you to find Him? Or will they like the girl in the story be too embarrassed to come to you that they decide to stay in sin and bondage?Let us remember to ...Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven... Matt 5:16

VERSE:

VERSE: The lips of the righteous feed many: but fools die for want ofwisdom. -- Proverbs 10:21 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Proverbs+10:21&translation=kjvTHOUGHT: I have several friends who are very wise in the way they speak.When they do speak up, everyone listens attentively because theirwords are always wise, well-timed, and worthwhile. Their righteouslives and careful use of words blesses and nourishes all wholisten. There are others, however, that are constantly talkingabout everything and spending little or no time practicing whatthey preach. Their words are discounted as nothing more than theirown desire to hear their own opinions about matters on which theyknow nothing. We each need to give serious consideration to what wesay and how others will view the things that we say.PRAYER: Holy and wise God, please give me wisdom and self-control tokeep my mouth shut unless what I say can benefit those to whom I'mspeaking. Help my words be helpful and true. In Jesus' name I pray.Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. -- Philippians 4:23 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Philippians+4:23&translation=kjvTHOUGHT: Some prayers are so simple and so precious. To pray grace "on"someone is a great blessing. To pray that this grace be more thanphysical, external things is greater still. So why not pray thisprayer for those you love.PRAYER: God, please pour out your grace on the following people that Ideeply love and want to know your grace, mercy, and power. I prayfor (List peronal names of friends and family who need yourprayers.) ... in Jesus' name. Amen.

Let The Church Be The Church

Let The Church Be The ChurchPastor Sherman Scott And I say also to you, That you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Matthew 16:18 KJV. In my young life I have the opportunity to live in some great states all of which exposed me to great things.For instance, while living in Boston, MA I was exposed to Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology leading educational institutions. It is said that the hardest thing about Harvard is getting in because they will ensure you make it through the matriculation process and upon graduation your life will be set.New York City exposed me to Wall Street, Merrill Lynch, Broadway, BMG, Sony, and a host of other companies that were leading business institutions that dictated the financial and culture spectrums of our world.Washington, DC opened my eyes to our powerful government. It was here that I was exposed to the Judicial Branch - Supreme Court, the Legislative Branch - Congress and the Executive Branch - The office of the President of the United States. For the 1st six months of my residency I was an avid tourist, I would visit the Monument, Embassy Row, I even visited the National Cemetery and I of course I visited the famous 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, which is the address of the White House.However that was not the address that impacted my life the most. The address that changed my life forever was 625 Park Road and later 610 Rhode Island Avenue the address of Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church. There is no greater institution than the Church!Jesus stated "Upon this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it"The church for me was everything. It provided me with an outlet to develop a relationship with God; I was also able to develop relationships with people that have now stood test of time for over 20 years. There is no other institution like the Church!Think about, the church is the place where relationships are established. It is the place we are christened as babies, where were married, and it is the place where we are eulogized. The church is where we learn life principles on living a victorious life. It is also where learn how to manage our financial affairs and live healthy lives. The church, yes the "Church" is where you can go to the alter and leave undeniably "saved."It is where you can become whole; trade in the sorrow, shame, pain, wounds, and hurts of our mind and bodies. We can leave the baggage that we often carry with us psychologically, physically and spiritually and experience wholeness through Jesus Christ.I remember one of the mothers of the church say, "it's time for the church to stop having church and BE the church" since we are the ecclesia (the called out ones - the church) let's do our part. What can you do to help your church introduce people to a relationship with Christ, change lives, strengthen families and impact communities?Some people may never have the privilege I had afforded to me to visit a great church, but can they watch you? Can their life be impacted by the relationship they have with you? The only sermon people may hear is the one you preach with the way you live.Let's be the church!

Daily Promises

Daily PromisesBlue Letter BibleApril 23, 2009 For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee. (Isaiah 41:13)My Prayer: Lord help me to trust in You when I'm scared—when I'm afraid of what people might think of me when I tell them about You and Your good news. Thank You Lord, for being right by my side, holding my hand, and strengthening me for every good work

WAITING ON EACH OTHER

WAITING ON EACH OTHER 1 Corinthians 11:33-34 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+11:33-34Dear Father, giver of bread and wine,Give each of us perfect courtesy toward others, even more, perfectlove. When we come together, may we wait on each other.May each of us satisfy our hunger at home rather than behave asgluttons in the assembly of your people!May we come together not to be condemned, but to build each otherup, and to be nourished by that bread which is life indeed, JesusChrist.In the name of Jesus, who is the daily bread and wine of ourlives, I ask. Amen.

EXAMINING MYSELF

EXAMINING MYSELF 1 Corinthians 11:27-32 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+11:27-32Dear Father, giver of bread and wine,May I never eat the bread or drink the cup in an unworthy manner,lest I profane the body and blood of the Lord. Teach me to examinemy heart and mind thoroughly before I eat of the bread and drink ofthe cup.Keep me from eating or drinking judgment upon myself by failing todiscern the body of the Lord, and thus become weak and ill, or fallasleep.May I judge myself truly, so that I will not be condemned.Most of all, help me submit to your judgment, Lord, by which youchasten us so that we will not be condemned along with the world.In the name of Jesus, who is the daily bread and wine of ourlives, I ask. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE: Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable,always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know thatyour labour is not in vain in the Lord. -- 1 Corinthians 15:58 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+15:58&translation=kjvTHOUGHT: Our financial investment opportunities can be fickle. Friendscan disappoint you. Nothing is truly sure except one thing, orbetter yet, our very special Someone! If we build our lives on hiswork and his plan, we can hang in, persevere, and even triumphregardless of what happens in this life.PRAYER: Give me courage and strength, O God, to not budge from my hopeand confidence in your Son to bring me to your Home. In Jesus' nameI pray. Amen.

Daily Promises

Daily PromisesBlue Letter BibleApril 22, 2009 Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This [is] the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts. (Zechariah 4:6)Trust not in the power of your own strength nor in the might of your own will to accomplish good, O believer! Your sanctification is not a matter of dominating yourself through discipline! You have no ability of your own to effect righteous works in your life! Trust, rather, in God! Place your faith in the Spirit to work in you for righteousness!

My Heart, My Chapel

My Heart, My ChapelCindy Beall "I'm goin' to church" is a phrase I've used more times than I can remember and to be quite honest, will probably continue to use it for the rest of my days. Because let's face it. It sounds rather odd to say, "I am now going to the building where the pastor speaks and we sing songs to praise Jesus." In my 38 years of living on this earth, I have heard numerous people share their spiritual woes with me. Many are frustrated that they are in God's waiting room and that He is just not moving fast enough for their taste. There are those who just can't seem to beat the demons who keep torturing them as they try to live their lives. But probably the biggest group is the people who struggle with not feeling close to God.Maybe you've said it.Maybe you've said it today.Rest assured, just because you and I don't always feel God's presence or feel close to God doesn't mean we are far from him. Quite the contrary.Brother Lawrence, author of The Practice of the Presence of God, writes:It isn't necessary that we stay in church in order to remain in God's presence. We can make our heart a chapel where we can go anytime to talk to God privately. Have you ever heard anything so profound? We can make our heart a chapel.Today, have some church in that heart of yours.

The Psalms

The PsalmsPsalms 54-56
Thursday: Job 37-38Friday: Jeremiah 32-36Saturday: Luke 1-2
Psalms 54
1
Save me, O God, by thy name, and judge me by thy strength.
2
Hear my prayer, O God; give ear to the words of my mouth.
3
For strangers are risen up against me, and oppressors seek after my soul: they have not set God before them. Selah.
4
Behold, God is mine helper: the Lord is with them that uphold my soul.
5
He shall reward evil unto mine enemies: cut them off in thy truth.
6
I will freely sacrifice unto thee: I will praise thy name, O LORD; for it is good.
7
For he hath delivered me out of all trouble: and mine eye hath seen his desire upon mine enemies.
Psalms 55
1
Give ear to my prayer, O God; and hide not thyself from my supplication.
2
Attend unto me, and hear me: I mourn in my complaint, and make a noise;
3
Because of the voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked: for they cast iniquity upon me, and in wrath they hate me.
4
My heart is sore pained within me: and the terrors of death are fallen upon me.
5
Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath overwhelmed me.
6
And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! for then would I fly away, and be at rest.
7
Lo, then would I wander far off, and remain in the wilderness. Selah.
8
I would hasten my escape from the windy storm and tempest.
9
Destroy, O Lord, and divide their tongues: for I have seen violence and strife in the city.
10
Day and night they go about it upon the walls thereof: mischief also and sorrow are in the midst of it.
11
Wickedness is in the midst thereof: deceit and guile depart not from her streets.
12
For it was not an enemy that reproached me; then I could have borne it: neither was it he that hated me that did magnify himself against me; then I would have hid myself from him:
13
But it was thou, a man mine equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance.
14
We took sweet counsel together, and walked unto the house of God in company.
15
Let death seize upon them, and let them go down quick into hell: for wickedness is in their dwellings, and among them.
16
As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me.
17
Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.
18
He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me.
19
God shall hear, and afflict them, even he that abideth of old. Selah. Because they have no changes, therefore they fear not God.
20
He hath put forth his hands against such as be at peace with him: he hath broken his covenant.
21
The words of his mouth were smoother than butter, but war was in his heart: his words were softer than oil, yet were they drawn swords.
22
Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.
23
But thou, O God, shalt bring them down into the pit of destruction: bloody and deceitful men shall not live out half their days; but I will trust in thee.
Psalms 56
1
Be merciful unto me, O God: for man would swallow me up; he fighting daily oppresseth me.
2
Mine enemies would daily swallow me up: for they be many that fight against me, O thou most High.
3
What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.
4
In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.
5
Every day they wrest my words: all their thoughts are against me for evil.
6
They gather themselves together, they hide themselves, they mark my steps, when they wait for my soul.
7
Shall they escape by iniquity? in thine anger cast down the people, O God.
8
Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book?
9
When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me.
10
In God will I praise his word: in the LORD will I praise his word.
11
In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.
12
Thy vows are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee.
13
For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living?

I'm Sorry

I'm SorryMilan Ford I've been wanting to write to you for some time now.Seems like every time I would try, I never could find the right words to say. We pass each other every Sunday. Sometimes even during the middle of the week.But for some reason, I just don't feel like we're as close as we once were.I'm sure there are a number of reasons for that. We both probably share some of the blame.But I felt like it was my time to apologize for a few things that may have driven us apart.I'm Sorry.For that time one of my ushers told you that seat was reserved for our "special guests."I'm Sorry.For those times I said our evening services would end at 9pm, but ended at 10:30pm.(I realize how difficult that can be with children that still have to get up early for school.)I'm Sorry.For that time you called one of my leaders for prayer and never received a call back.I'm Sorry.For sometimes being way too critical on how you choose to dress for service.I'm Sorry.For those times it seems like I'm always asking for some kind of financial assistance.(I realize how you and others give so faithfully. I just wish there were more like you.)I'm Sorry.For the times I may have appeared more interested in gaining new members, than serving and being a disciple to those members (like you) who were already coming.For that time your friend (the one you invited to come visit on last Sunday) got screamed at by one of my parking lot leaders for going the wrong way. She really didn't know.I'm Sorry.For those times you had questions about some of my messages and were afraid to ask.And I'm (Really) Sorry....For the times you've felt I place too much emphasis on the pastor. I admit sometimes I can get a bit carried away. I can't imagine how many other things I may have done to make you feel the way you do. I never meant to disappoint you and want you to know how important you are to me.If there is anything the last few years have taught me, is that I desperately need to make some changes. I realize I've picked up a pretty bad rap recently. So much so I thought about giving up.But just when I was about to throw in the towel, I read in Ephesians 5:25 that Christ loves me, and even gave Himself up for me (despite my many shortcomings).I figured if Christ could love me, with all that I've done in the past, there still may be hope for the two of us. Although I can't promise everything is going to be perfect, I know that together, we still can do some great and awesome things. I hope you will consider forgiving me and working alongside me.We have so much to do.Yours always,The Church

REMEMBERING CHRIST'S DEATH

REMEMBERING CHRIST'S DEATH 1 Corinthians 11:24-26 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+11:24-26Dear Father, giver of bread and wine,Cause us to remember that in the same way he blessed the bread,after supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new covenantin my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance ofme."Help us, giver of the heavenly bread and the heavenly wine, to eatand drink, as often as we do it, in proclamation of the Lord'sdeath until he comes.In the name of Jesus, who is the daily bread and wine of ourlives, I ask. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE: O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? -- 1 Corinthians 15:55 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+15:55&translation=kjvTHOUGHT: Death has the power to end life. Death has the power toseparate. Death has the power to discourage and defeat us. But, weknow the truth: Jesus lives! Because he lives, we know we will livewith him. We believe that his victory over death is our victory. Solike Jesus, we mock death and its power to destroy us. Jesus hasdestroyed death and brought immortality to life ... in us throughthe Gospel.PRAYER: Father, I confess that the death of those I love still hurts me.I thank you that my separation from them will only be for a shorttime. I thank you that death doesn't separate me for long fromthose whom I love and who love you. Thank you for giving me thevictory in Jesus. Thank you, Jesus, for defeating death. In yourprecious and triumphant name, Jesus Christ the Lord, I pray. Amen.

Daily Promises

Daily PromisesBlue Letter BibleApril 20, 2009 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life. (John 8:12)Walk in the light. Forsake the deeds of darkness. God has promised life to those who will put away their old lives and trust on His life. His Son will send all darkness scurrying to the uttermost parts of the earth. He will be a lamp unto thy feet. It is Christ Himself who will lead His people from the very shadow of death unto the Light everlasting. Hallelujah! What a saviour!

Why We Meet Together Regularly

Why We Meet Together RegularlyRon Luce Some people have gotten out of the habit of meeting for worship, but we must not do that. We should keep on encouraging each other, especially since you know that the day of the Lord's coming is getting closer. - Hebrews 10:25, CEV The Bible specifically talks about the importance of getting together with other Christians so that you can learn and grow and continue going for God with all your heart. A lot of people think that after they make their commitment to the Lord, they can do whatever they want as long as they don't fall into major sin. The point is, however, that you are not designed to be a Lone Ranger Christian. You are designed to do incredible things for God and to change the world, but you have to be connected with other people who want to do the same thing. In Hebrews 10:25, the Bible gives you a specific instruction: "Don't you dare quit going to church! Don't you dare stop getting together with people who have a like mind and a like faith."This is an important point for young people today. A lot of people say, "I can't really make it to church. My job--my sports, my hobby, my whatever--interferes with my church and youth group." But, you have to surround yourself with people who love God and are going after God in the same direction. The Bible calls it fellowship.I have talked to so many youth pastors who get really discouraged. They work their heart out for their young people, yet the young people don't seem very committed. For example, I know youth pastors who have planned and planned and planned a retreat or some other activity. They announced it for two months and mentioned it during meetings.But when it came time for the activity, no one came. It turned out that the teenagers were more committed to a school activity or sport than they were to their youth group--people with whom they are going to heaven and spending eternity.As a follower of Christ, you need to turn that reputation around. You need to be the kind of person who says, "I know God has plugged me in here. God has a plan and a reason for my being here. I'll not commit to just Wednesday nights or just Sunday mornings. But every time that there is an opportunity for me to grow, I'm going to be here."Does that mean you have to be there every time the doors are open to church? No. But at the very least, be committed to the regular services and special events that your pastor and youth pastor have going so that they know you are a serious Christian.Don't be an airhead floating around saying, "I have my Bible and my study manual, and I'll do my own thing." If you are committed to the Lord, then there ought to be other people around you who know about your commitment to the Lord and who can help you grow. Maybe you have done some things that I've mentioned here or even other things to show a lack of commitment to your pastor or youth pastor. I want you to take a moment and think about anything you may have done to show a lack of commitment. Take some time this week to ask your youth pastor and pastor to forgive you for anything you have done to make their jobs more difficult.Think of some things that you can do that will show your commitment to meet with other Christians. How can you show that you have determined that you will not allow yourself to get out of the habit of meeting for worship? How can you show your commitment to your youth group and church? Don't just be a flighty, air-headed, haphazard Christian who floats in now and then.Write down four or five ways that you can show your commitment to obey Hebrews 10:25.

OBSERVING THE LORD'S SUPPER

OBSERVING THE LORD'S SUPPER 1 Corinthians 11:17-23 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+11:17-23Dear Father, giver of bread and wine,When we come together as your family to partake of bread and wine,let it truly be "the Lord's supper" which we eat. Let there be nodivisions or preferences among us, no putting ourselves first, orputting our group first. Let there be no divisions between rich andpoor, young and old, dark-skinned or light, white collar or bluecollar. Let no one do anything that would humiliate another. For"the Lord's supper" is a feast of love and unity.Cause us to remember what was delivered to us by your apostles,how the Lord Jesus on the night that he was betrayed took bread,and having given thanks, broke it, and said, "This is my body whichis for you. Do this in remembrance of me."In the name of Jesus, who is the daily bread and wine of ourlives, I ask. Amen.

Why You Need the Church

Why You Need the ChurchBishop E. Earl Jenkins "The many parts make up only one body." 1 Corinthians 12:12 TLBThere's a wonderful story about Jimmy Durante, one of the truly great entertainers. He was asked to do a show for World War II veterans. He told them he was very busy, but if they wouldn't mind his doing one short monologue and immediately leaving for his next appointment, he'd come. They agreed. But when Jimmy got on stage he went through the short monologue - then stayed, and stayed. Soon he'd been on stage 15, 20, then 30 minutes. Finally he took a last bow and left. Backstage someone stopped him and said "I thought you had to go after a few minutes. What happened?" Jimmy answered, " You can see for yourself if you look on the front row." In the front row were two veterans, each of whom had lost an arm in the war. One had lost his right arm and the other had lost his left. Together, they were able to clap, and that's exactly what they were doing, loudly and cheerfully. That's a picture of what's supposed to happen in church: "But the many parts make up only one body when they are all put together. So it is with the 'body' of Christ." But to enjoy its benefits you have to go, and when you get there you must reach out to others so that you can know, and be known. Pew-sitting, back-of-the-head fellowship won't cut it! Someone sitting next to you has 20/20 vision where you have blind spots. You need their counsel, correction and comfort. And they need yours. When that happens, the church is working like it's supposed to.

BALANCE

BALANCE
1 Corinthians 11:2-16 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+11:2-16
Dear Father, God of the present and the future, but also of thepast,
Make me willing to consider and accept new things. But also helpme to respect and maintain the traditions from the past. May Iacknowledge that Christ is my head and submit myself to him, evenas he acknowledges you as his head.
May Christian wives acknowledge the headship of their ownhusbands, and may their husbands honor Christ as their head. Helphusbands and wives live inter-dependently, realizing that they needeach other for mutual support and procreation. May all the women inyour holy church conduct themselves in a way that shows theirdevotion to your Word and to their own husbands, and may allhusbands give their wives due honor and genuine love.
Help each of us who follows Christ not to be contentious orself-willed. Let us adapt ourselves to the traditions of the pastthat promote good order.
In the name of Jesus I submit to your authority, asking thesethings according to his will. Amen.

Resurrection Power

Resurrection PowerDr. Zachary Tims, Jr. The passages in Philippians 3: 7-14, are most meaningful for applying the principle of "resurrection power" in our lives as Christians. The significance of these verses pull into focus its relevance for understanding seasons of suffering that eventually culminate into victories. The subject is pertinent during this high holy season of celebrating the Passover Lamb of God, and the redemptive, substitutionary atonement through our Lord Jesus Christ. Paul's profound theology states it perfectly, "But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things [but] loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them [but] dung, that I may win Christ..."In times of suffering and loss, let us reflect on what the resurrection power does for us. The devil, our enemy, thought he could destroy us, but since we have chosen the path of righteousness through the message of the Gospel, we are redeemed from our sins. "we all have sinned and fallen short..." so which one of us can evade the need to be forgiven for the wrongs we've done? We were resurrected into newness of life, redeemed from the curse, and the penalty of the law, through Jesus Christ, who made us righteous before a holy God. Not by the will of man but by the power of His resurrection. And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:In suffering the loss of a job, a broken relationship, the death of a loved one, a negative doctor's report, bad grades, car repo's, and all the drama the evil world provides, Paul states, "That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;We will go through some hard times of life. We will suffer loss and have to work through the pain. Yet, through all the suffering of imprisonment, beatings, mockery, and injustices, Paul survived because he KNEW the power of resurrection. God raised him from a dead situation, to prove to the world of non-believers that we can be raised in newness of life and redeemed from our dead circumstances, no matter what they are! The urgency Paul meant was that, "If by ANY means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.Realize that no matter how tough it gets, we have the power to rise above any adversity. If you are a believer, the promise of victory is reachable and attainable. We can bounce back from any obstacle that life hits us with and win the victory. So Paul give us the roadmap to the successful implications of resurrection power. Humility: "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but..." Humble yourself to the cross, the reality of the finished work on calvary. Faith: "...this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before," Don't let your past rob you of your future. Diligence: "I press toward the mark..." Determine to stay in the race. Don't give up. Focus: "for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." If you read the Word every day, you will keep the resurrection power clearly in your focus and not on the negative circumstances of life.

NOTHING BETWEEN GOD AND ME

NOTHING BETWEEN GOD AND ME 1 Corinthians 10:14-22 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+10:14-22Dear Father,Never let an idol stand between me and you. I am not stronger thanyou. I don't want to provoke you to jealousy.Help me to understand that while "all things are lawful," allthings are not helpful.Let everything I do, whether working or resting, eating ordrinking, be done for your glory.May I never worship myself, live for myself, or strive to pleasemyself. I want to worship you, to live for you, to please you.In the name of Jesus and in reliance upon his example I ask this.Amen.

The Dichotomy Of Dying To Live

The Dichotomy Of Dying To LiveJothany Blackwood One of the most powerful lessons that has been translated from the pulpit to the front porch is that we must die to the things of the flesh in order to live as Christians. And while that is not always an immediate transformation, it provides a model for the dichotomy of Christian living. And it is found in this conflicting idea; that in order to live a life of purpose, you must first die to the ways of the world. And the challenge for many of us is not with the death of a thing, but it is in the mysterious act of living afterwards. We have all had some experience with death; whether from the intimacy of its embrace of loved ones or the recognition that it waited patiently for us like an unwelcome visitor with no place to go. We recognize, however, that we have experienced the emotional death of relationships that promised so much and friendships that summoned our trust with ease. And after they ended, we were left with the pain of here's another one that didn't love us and we readjusted our masks with a heavy sigh. Many of us have shouted, prayed, cried and danced our way through spiritual death as deliverance revealed that which had quietly offered promise underneath. It left us with a transparency that not only allowed us to see what we had survived, but even greater it offered the reflection of who God said we could be.As I am dealing with my grandmother's death, my soul cries out from the uncertainty of how to live without her. And many of us are in that place of ambiguity that seeks clarity on how to live again without the familiar issues or behaviors that accompanied us until we met Christ.Yet the resurrection indicates that after the death of certain behaviors and ideas, it is followed by living in fulfillment of one's purpose. If we can allow our hunger for the things of the world to die, then surely God will sustain us in every way. We can be confident in the knowledge that the essence of this dichotomy is not simply that we must die to live, but that all that we are belonged to God all along.And since Jesus died and lived to tell about it, perhaps our story can also tell of how we rose again from our circumstances and challenges and lived a renewed life. Each day we get the chance through Christ to rewrite and create our own story and as my grandmother would often say, "You just make it a story to tell!"

PERSEVERENCE

PERSEVERENCE 1 Corinthians 10:6-15 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+10:6-15Dear Father, righteous judge of all mankind,Help me to live as one upon whom the end of the ages has come.Help me take what happened to the Israelites as a warning tomyself. Don't let me get puffed up, thinking that I cannot fall.But at the same time let me keep in mind that no temptation hasovertaken me that is not common to man. Help me remember that youare faithful and will not allow me to be tempted beyond mystrength, but with every temptation will also provide the way forme to escape, that I may be able to endure it!The way of escape may be death, as it was for Jesus. If so, may Ibe willing to die if that is what it takes to enter your eternalkingdom.It is better that I should enter it with eyes or hands gone thanto enter into hell with my whole body intact. Help me to obey youfrom a heart of love and gratefulness for what you have done forme.In the name of Jesus grant me such love for you that I willpersevere in obedience until the very end. Amen.

We Are All Witnesses

We Are All WitnessesPastor Andre Butler For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of His majesty. --2 Peter 1:16 Resurrection Day is one of the most important days of the year for Christians. Without the resurrection of Jesus Christ, there is no salvation, and without salvation there is no Christianity. This illustrates the heart of the gospel message that Jesus rose from the dead. In the Book of Acts one word seemed to be used repeatedly to describe the followers of Jesus: witnesses. In Peter's first message on the day of Pentecost, his grand finale was that Jesus was no longer dead but alive and that they were all witnesses. The rest of the apostles joined in with Peter in testifying of what they had heard, seen, and knew. They with more than 500 others had personally seen Jesus after his resurrection.He was among them for 40 days and proved He was alive by many infallible proofs. Therefore, they became an ecstatic group that found themselves on the streets of Jerusalem testifying about the resurrection of Jesus. If the apostles had made up the resurrection story they preached, and later wrote, surely at least one of them would have confessed of their deception to prevent whatever death awaited them during that time. However, they all testified through their actions that their testimony was true.They, along with those that became followers of Jesus through his ministry and theirs, testified wherever they went that Jesus was alive. Later a man named Paul, one who had Christians killed for their beliefs, had an encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. He left on his trip with plans to end the lives of Christians, and he returned as a witness to the resurrection of Jesus. As Christians today, we have the same responsibility to spread the good news about the resurrection of Jesus. We are witnesses, commissioned to testify that Jesus is not dead but alive, and that His resurrection is proof that everything He said was true. The many healings and miracles occurring not only in churches all over the world, but in grocery stores, athletic fields, schools, and anywhere else you find Bible-believing Christians using the authority of Jesus also prove that Jesus is alive and still working miracles as He did during His time on earth.Lastly, as Christians, each of us are witnesses of what Jesus has done in our marriages, bodies, finances, careers, emotions, and other areas of our lives. We must not be ashamed to get in the streets as the early believers did and testify about what Jesus has done for us.Resurrection Day is not just a day where we celebrate, but a day when we are reminded of our responsibility to be a witness to our world that Jesus is alive and that what He did for us He will do for them as well!

VERSE:

VERSE: Treasures of wickedness profit nothing: but righteousnessdelivereth from death. -- Proverbs 10:2 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=Proverbs+10:2&translation=kjvTHOUGHT: Wealth, especially wealth gotten through greedy and wickedmeans, proves to be of no lasting value. This rancid wealth rotsthe heart of the one who gets it and it cannot save us from ourultimate demise. Righteousness, however, is a far more precioustreasure. This righteousness of the Eternal God, this gift given tous by grace through faith, is greater than the limits of ourmortality and powerful enough to redeem our soul from death.PRAYER: Holy and Righteous God, please make me righteous in your sight.I want my greatest legacy to be my righteous character, not mystatus, achievement, or wealth. I know my accomplishments will beforgotten after my earthly life is over, but I am fully convincedthat the righteousness that you work in me will be a blessing andan influence for generations after I am gone and will be myaccompanying treasure when I share with you in your glory. InJesus' name I pray. Amen.

The Surprise Party

The Surprise PartyBishop Vashti McKenzie The resurrection described in John's gospel appears to be a series of many surprises. The stone was rolled away from the mouth of the tomb. Mary Magdalene was surprised. The tomb was empty. The Disciples, who raced to the burial site, were surprised.

The gardener surprises Mary, who did not recognize the resurrected Lord. You can imagine the surprise of the other disciples that night when Mary announced to them, "I have seen the Lord."

It shouldn't have been a surprise. Jesus told them He had a date with a cross. The reason for His coming, the capstone of His mission and the culmination of His earthly ministry was up on a cross and out of a grave - ALIVE.

The portrayal of the life and ministry of Jesus in the Gospels could be termed also as a series of surprises. Surprise! Jesus taught with a fresh interpretation of the law, with an authority not seen before or since. Surprise! Jesus said love your neighbor and also your enemies, pray for them who despitefully use you, and forgive 70 times 7.

Surprise! Jesus taught seek first the Kingdom and the stuff your looking for will be added to you. Surprise! Jesus endured the cross and the shame for the joy at a time when we didn't deserve it; for while we were sinners Jesus died on a cross.

Surprise! Jesus went further to reach people and to reconcile them to God crossing political, cultural and historical boundaries. He let nothing stand in His way. The Pharisees, soldiers, Herod and Satan all tried to stop Him. Peter tried to convince Him to choose another course of action and Judas tried to betray Him into military action.

We may even remain surprised at how important we are to Jesus Christ. Surprised that salvation is still available by grace through faith. Surprised that there is still healing in His hem when we are unworthy to unlatch the sandals from His feet. Surprised that even when we tripped over our own feet, stumbled into poor decisions, disintegrated in private or flopped in public Jesus was there for us.

Even when we didn't deserve resuscitation, surprise, Jesus led the rescue effort.

What a great surprise party it was that day when Jesus rose from the grave with all power in His hands. The rules for inclusion were changed so that all who call upon the name of Jesus shall be saved; the grave has no victim and death no sting.

Let us gather together to celebrate the proclamation of this victory and the spread of a new community ruled by God's love. Let us celebrate by recommitting our lives to the worship, work and witness of our resurrected Messiah. Tell our own story to all who would listen, like Mary, I have seen the Lord!

SLAVE TO ALL

SLAVE TO ALL 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+9:19-23Dear Father, lover of all peoples,Though I am free from all men, let me become a slave to all, thatI may win many, many more people to the cause of the Lord.To Jews help me become as a Jew, to non-Jews as a non-Jew, to thepoor as one who is poor, to the weak as one who is weak, that Imight by all means save some of them.Help me to gladly do whatever is needful for the sake of the GoodNews, so that I may share in its blessings.In the name of Jesus. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE: If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all menmost miserable. -- 1 Corinthians 15:19 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+15:19&translation=kjvTHOUGHT: Wow, what a powerful and sobering thought. Our faith in Jesus'resurrection and our faith in being joined to him is so crucialthat all else pales in comparison. Our hope in Christ is not justfor here and now, but it is also a hope that transcends life andbursts the shackles of death. If it doesn't offer us this hope,then it is no hope at all; it is not really good news. We aredeluded and to be pitied. But then, I do believe that Jesuspromises us a heavenly home! This, my friend, changes everything!PRAYER: Father God, the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End,I believe that your victory over death in Jesus' resurrection alsomeans my victory over death! I trust that Jesus will raise me upfrom the dead to share life eternal with you. I cannot tell you howmuch I look forward to being with you face to face and sharing inyour glory and praising your name forever. In Jesus' name I praiseand thank you. Amen.

FALSE GODS

FALSE GODS 1 Corinthians 8:7-13 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+8:7-13Dear Father, the one real and only God,Many do not understand that all reality is rooted in you, so theychase the "gods" of this world, the "idols" which they worship -money, fame, glamor, power, security - and in some cases real idolsand the real demons who are behind those idols.Many brothers and sisters in Christ have recently been freed frombondage to a culture that worships these false gods, and due totheir weak consciences they can easily be drawn back. Keep me frompursuing the things they were in the habit of pursuing, lest theythink I am serving their old "gods" and that it is okay for them toviolate their consciences and return to former practices. Don't letmy "knowledge" destroy someone who is weak. May I be willing toforego any right or privilege rather than cause a brother or sisterto fall.In the name of Jesus and by his authority I ask these thingsaccording to his will. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE: For I delivered unto you first of all that which I alsoreceived, how that Christ died for our sins according to thescriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again thethird day according to the scriptures: And that he was seen ofCephas, then of the twelve... -- 1 Corinthians 15:3-5 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+15:3-5&translation=kjvTHOUGHT: Some things are "first importance" things. They lie at the heartof the matter and are central to the issue at hand. For us asChristians, we don't have to doubt what those "first importance"things are. The Gospel of our salvation is built on one simplefoundation: Jesus died, Jesus was buried, Jesus rose from thegrave, and Jesus appeared to his disciples who were never the sameafter witnessing their resurrected Savior. Let's not let anyonedistract us from these core truths or crowd out their simplicitywith other matters they may claim to be essential. Our salvation isrooted in our faith and our participation in this simple, yetpowerful Gospel. PRAYER: Dear God, I confess my faith in your work for me in Jesus. Ibelieve that your Son and my Savior, Jesus, was crucified by wickedmen just as you had said long ago in your Word. I believe his deadand lifeless body was placed in the tomb. I believe that on thethird day, you brought him back to life, just as you promised. Ibelieve that those most destroyed by his death, those who knew himbest, saw him alive again. I believe their lives were never thesame. I believe, dear Father, that as I have confessed my faith inJesus and shared with him in his death, burial, and resurrectionthrough baptism that my life is caught up with him in yoursalvation and victory over death. I praise you for this grace. Ithank you for this assurance. I look forward to sharing in yourglory when he returns for me. Thank you for my salvation, in Jesus'name. Amen.

The Cross

The CrossPastor Sherman Scott (1 Cor 2:1-2) And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. {2} For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. At the cross, at the cross where I first saw the light,And the burden of my heart rolled away,It was there by faith I received my sight,And now I am happy all the day! The aforementioned is the refrain to an old hymn of the church. While I absolutely love the music of today I can not deny the power of the hymns of the church. This particular refrain is centered on the "Cross."The Cross is probably the most familiar of all Christian symbols is the cross. They are worn around the necks of individuals. Bishop, Pastors, Elders and Ministers wear them as part of their civic and ceremonial attire. We see them on buildings, books, brochures, and Bibles.They are on top of steeples, against walls, they are everywhere. What is the significance? What does it means to you and me? We know that historically the cross meant death and suffering as a cruel means of execution. But is that why we celebrate it today? Is that why we embrace it this morning? No, not at all! The cross means much more than that. To the one who believes the message of God as given in His Word, the cross has identity. It becomes the cross of Christ. It means life rather than death; it means love rather than hatred; and it means joy rather than sorrow. Through the Cross of Christ, God reconciled sinful man unto Himself. An amazing accomplishment and one that only He could do! The cross is of great importance to us because it provides simplicity in a complex world, it provides direction in a busy world, and it provides motivation in an apathetic world.On April 12, 2009 we will celebrate Resurrection Sunday. For us as Christians our faith is anchored on the Resurrection. We often say, "I love you" to our love ones on special occasions I admonish you to take time out this day and tell our Lord you love him for what he has done for us.The Apostle Paul tells us in Romans 5:8 that "...God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us".

LOVE ABOVE KNOWLEDGE

LOVE ABOVE KNOWLEDGE 1 Corinthians 8:1-13 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+8:1-13Dear Father, the one real and only God,Give me more love and humility than knowledge, for "Knowledgepuffs up but love builds up."People know lots of things, but they let it go to their heads.Help me, Father, never to imagine that I know everything, because Iknow that I do not yet know as I ought to know. What I want is tolove you as I should, for if I love you, then I am loved and knownby you. All the things that men and women pursue, O God, seem tohave no real existence when compared to you. There is no God butyou, the one God.The world is full of "gods." But for us Christians there is justone God, you, from whom all things come and for whom they exist,and there is just one Lord, the Lord Jesus Christ, through whom areall things and through whom we exist.In the name of Jesus and by his authority I ask these thingsaccording to his will. Amen.

VERSE:

VERSE: Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which Ipreached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein yestand... -- 1 Corinthians 15:1 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+15:1&translation=kjvTHOUGHT: Our hope, our salvation, and our foundation for faith is theGospel of Jesus Christ. This Gospel is the same as that Gospelfirst preached by the apostles and passed on to the believers inthe early church. With so many confusing and conflicting ideaspresent in the world, we need to go back and be reminded of oursimple faith in Jesus and his death, burial and resurrection. Weneed to un-clutter our hearts from all the ideas and issues that sooften divide our churches and rip apart our fellowships and hearthe words of the old hymn, "Simply to Thy Cross I cling." Today,let's be reminded of that simple Gospel of Jesus and build our lifethere.PRAYER: Almighty and Precious Father, I love you. I cannot begin tothank you enough for your love and grace, displayed so powerfullyto me in Jesus. I know the basis for my hope and the foundation onwhich I build my life is the Gospel of your dear Son. Thank you forgiving me something so simple, steadfast, and sure. In Jesus' nameI pray. Amen.

CONTENTMENT

CONTENTMENT 1 Corinthians 7:25-35 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+7:25-35Dear Father, head of our one enduring spiritual family,Thank you that you have not left us uninformed in matters offamily relations. Thank you for the apostle Paul's instructions,which tell us to be holy in body and spirit and to give ourselvesup to please you. Help me, Father, to do that.May we be content in the situations in which you have placed us.May those of us with spouses live, in a sense, as if we had none.May those of us who mourn over lost loved ones, in a sense, notmourn at all. May those of us who rejoice, in a sense, not be sojoyful. May those of us who buy and sell, in a sense, act as if wehave no goods. May those of us who deal with the world, in a sense,act as if we have no dealings with the world at all.What does it all mean? This world and the form of it are passingaway, so free me from all anxiety! There is no answer apart fromknowing that you are in control and will bring to pass your goodpleasure.Grant us rest in you! In the name of Jesus I lift up this prayerto you. Amen.

The Psalms

The PsalmsPsalms 48-50 Thursday: Job 33-34Friday: Jeremiah 22-26Saturday: Mark 13-14Psalms 481 Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of his holiness. 2 Beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth, is mount Zion, on the sides of the north, the city of the great King. 3 God is known in her palaces for a refuge. 4 For, lo, the kings were assembled, they passed by together. 5 They saw it, and so they marvelled; they were troubled, and hasted away. 6 Fear took hold upon them there, and pain, as of a woman in travail. 7 Thou breakest the ships of Tarshish with an east wind. 8 As we have heard, so have we seen in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God: God will establish it for ever. Selah. 9 We have thought of thy lovingkindness, O God, in the midst of thy temple. 10 According to thy name, O God, so is thy praise unto the ends of the earth: thy right hand is full of righteousness. 11 Let mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah be glad, because of thy judgments. 12 Walk about Zion, and go round about her: tell the towers thereof. 13 Mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces; that ye may tell it to the generation following. 14 For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death. Psalms 491 Hear this, all ye people; give ear, all ye inhabitants of the world: 2 Both low and high, rich and poor, together. 3 My mouth shall speak of wisdom; and the meditation of my heart shall be of understanding. 4 I will incline mine ear to a parable: I will open my dark saying upon the harp. 5 Wherefore should I fear in the days of evil, when the iniquity of my heels shall compass me about? 6 They that trust in their wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches; 7 None of them can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him: 8 (For the redemption of their soul is precious, and it ceaseth for ever:) 9 That he should still live for ever, and not see corruption. 10 For he seeth that wise men die, likewise the fool and the brutish person perish, and leave their wealth to others. 11 Their inward thought is, that their houses shall continue for ever, and their dwelling places to all generations; they call their lands after their own names. 12 Nevertheless man being in honour abideth not: he is like the beasts that perish. 13 This their way is their folly: yet their posterity approve their sayings. Selah. 14 Like sheep they are laid in the grave; death shall feed on them; and the upright shall have dominion over them in the morning; and their beauty shall consume in the grave from their dwelling. 15 But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave: for he shall receive me. Selah. 16 Be not thou afraid when one is made rich, when the glory of his house is increased; 17 For when he dieth he shall carry nothing away: his glory shall not descend after him. 18 Though while he lived he blessed his soul: and men will praise thee, when thou doest well to thyself. 19 He shall go to the generation of his fathers; they shall never see light. 20 Man that is in honour, and understandeth not, is like the beasts that perish. Psalms 501 The mighty God, even the LORD, hath spoken, and called the earth from the rising of the sun unto the going down thereof. 2 Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God hath shined. 3 Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be very tempestuous round about him. 4 He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, that he may judge his people. 5 Gather my saints together unto me; those that have made a covenant with me by sacrifice. 6 And the heavens shall declare his righteousness: for God is judge himself. Selah. 7 Hear, O my people, and I will speak; O Israel, and I will testify against thee: I am God, even thy God. 8 I will not reprove thee for thy sacrifices or thy burnt offerings, to have been continually before me. 9 I will take no bullock out of thy house, nor he goats out of thy folds. 10 For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills. 11 I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are mine. 12 If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world is mine, and the fulness thereof. 13 Will I eat the flesh of bulls, or drink the blood of goats? 14 Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High: 15 And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me. 16 But unto the wicked God saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or that thou shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth? 17 Seeing thou hatest instruction, and casteth my words behind thee. 18 When thou sawest a thief, then thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with adulterers. 19 Thou givest thy mouth to evil, and thy tongue frameth deceit. 20 Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother's son. 21 These things hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether such an one as thyself: but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes. 22 Now consider this, ye that forget God, lest I tear you in pieces, and there be none to deliver. 23 Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God.

The Intersection Of Life

The Intersection Of LifeElder Marquis Boone Dr. Alexander Whyte tells the story of a man who dreamed that he saw Jesus tied to a whipping-post, and a soldier was scourging Him. He saw the whip in the soldier's hand, with its thick lashes studded here and there with bits of lead, which were intended to cut into the flesh. And as the soldier brought the whip down on the bare shoulders of Jesus, the dreamer shuddered when he saw the marks and bloodstains it left behind. And when the soldier raised his hand to strike again the dreamer rushed forward intending to stop him. As he did so the soldier turned around and the dreamer recognized himself. --E. E. Lark. In Christianity the cross reminds us of God's act of love and atonement in Christ's sacrifice at Calvary. The Cross of Jesus stands at the intersection of eternity and our world. Mark 8:34 (NKJV) "And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me." When we look at the cross we have to be reminded that it is a symbol of selflessness. Here in Mark we see that we all have a cross to carry, but our cross will never measure up to the one Jesus endured. His cross carried the weight of this world, and it represents His victory over sin and death.How many times do we find ourselves like the dreamer who doesn't want to see Jesus crucified? Then we realize that at times it is us who are doing the crucifying; in our humanness we forget all that Jesus did on the cross. It serves as an injustice to the cross when we live our lives daily in sin. God took on the cross so that we would not have to be slaves to sin. The cross gave us the ability to be above our circumstances and not under our circumstances.There is a big difference from being under your circumstances and being above, because when you are under your circumstances you can only do what your circumstances allow you to do, you can only go where your circumstances take you. When you are over your circumstances, over your sin, over you struggle you have ruler ship and authority; now you dictate what you will and will not do. You may be at an intersection in your life where you want to do right, but it seems that you are not sure which way to go and don't know which way to turn. I admonish you to take up your cross and follow Him. Well, Elder Boone I heard that before but I still don't know which way to go. Sometimes we have to go in the direction that is less desirable because it's on that path that victory is won. Jesus lay in the garden and said "Father if it's possible for this cup to pass let it, but nevertheless not my will but yours be done." Before you make your next decision think of the cross, see the cross, embrace the cross and ask the question: Will your decision bring glory or shame to the cross?

Boast In The Cross

Boast In The CrossAqualyn Toi Jones What do you boast about? Yes, I'm asking you.And no, you're not exempt from this question. We've all boasted about something. Maybe it's your children / grandchildren and how smart they are. Perhaps it was about your material possessions or your accomplishments. Nonetheless, I know that you've bragged at some point in time. Feeling ashamed? Well, that's not my intention.I think bragging is a natural tendency for some. We just like to share the good things that go on in our lives. The problem is not in boasting. The issue lies in what we boast about. In Galatians 6:14, Paul says, "But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified ..." Well, that may be the problem right there. Maybe our tendency is to boast in everything but the cross. Paul says that if he's going to boast, he's going to boast in the cross. Why? Frankly, there's nothing else to brag about. None of my achievements or awards can compare to what happened on the cross of Christ. All of my efforts, recognitions, and rewards fall short of what happened on that cross. We're taught at a young age to say 'Please' and 'Thank You'. We're also taught to put our best foot forward. To show our strengths instead of our weaknesses. Show-and-tell taught us to bring our best and to brag (oops, I mean talk) about it. No wonder we get this boasting thing all wrong. One of my favorite pieces of jewelry is a cross pendant that I bought almost seven years ago. It's not the first cross that I've owned. It doesn't have any diamonds on it. In fact, it's sterling silver. It's cute and I'm proud of it. This cross is special to me because I bought it during my first missions' trip to South Africa. I haven't seen one like it yet. How's that for boasting?But my cross - no matter how cute - has nothing on the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Nothing I do can match the power of the cross. My good intentions still fall short. When Jesus died on the cross we became the sons and daughters of God. The cross was the vehicle to destroy the hold of sin over us. It put us it good standing with God. The cross introduced a lasting and eternal change in the relationship between God and man. Why would we even want to boast about ourselves? Instead, let us brag with Paul about the cross and the lasting and eternal change it brings to our lives.

HUSBANDS AND WIVES

HUSBANDS AND WIVES 1 Corinthians 7:10-24 http://www.SearchGodsWord.org/desk/?query=1+Corinthians+7:10-24Dear Father, lover of families,May husbands and wives both strive to satisfy the spiritual, mental,economic, emotional, and physical needs of the other so neither ofthem will ever be tempted to look to someone else for companionship.Help them both to exercise perfect self-control, never giving Satanany opportunity to deceive them.Father, grant that there may never be any rupture in their marriagerelationship that would lead to quarreling, unfaithfulness,separation, or divorce. While one cannot take ultimateresponsibility for the salvation of the other, help each of them tolive for you before the other, building each other up. Becausemarriage is honorable in your eyes, help us to lead the life beforeyou which you have assigned them in marriage.Thank you for calling them to peace, peace with each other and withyou. In the state they are in, let them remain there with you, livingjoyfully in the keeping of your commandments.In the name of Jesus and by his authority I ask. Amen.