Joy in the promise keeper (Romans 15:13) comes from a guarded heart (Proverbs 4:23, Phil 4:7)

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

Enjoying this teaching by Bill Johnson, Warfare Through Lordship: How Trust in God Defeats the Enemy Bill Johnson teaches that joy rooted in trust and the Lordship of Jesus is not denial of hardship but a strategic act of faith. When believers count it all joy, they choose defiant perseverance that refuses anxiety and fear, which disarms spiritual opposition. Joy flows from confidence in God’s promises, especially that He works all things for good. This posture establishes victory before circumstances change. The Lordship of Jesus is tested most clearly in finances, relationships, and the inner world. Surrender in these areas produces freedom, unity, and clarity of mind. Joy becomes both shield and weapon, aligning believers with God’s perspective and securing spiritual authority.

Reminds me of my "life verse": Proverbs 4:23, Phil 4:7

Guard your heart with all vigilance, above all else, for it determines the course of your life, for everything you do flows from it, like a Spring of Life (living water John 7:38). - Prov 4:23

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. -Phil 4:4-7

Choose Joy as Obedience

• Joy is a deliberate act of trust, not a reaction to outcomes. Scripture: James 1:2–4; Nehemiah 8:10

Practice Defiant Perseverance

• Endurance is steadfast resistance under pressure, not passive waiting. Scripture: James 1:12; Ephesians 6:13

Anchor Hope in God’s Promises

• Hope is present joy based on future certainty. Scripture: Romans 8:28; Romans 15:13

Submit Finances to Christ’s Lordship

• Generosity reflects trust in God as provider and sustainer. Scripture: Matthew 6:21; Malachi 3:10; 2 Corinthians 9:7–8

Pursue Reconciliation Over Being Right

• Unity is a higher calling than winning arguments. Scripture: James 1:19–20; Matthew 5:23–24

Guard the Inner World

• Thoughts must align with God’s truth, not self-accusation. Scripture: Romans 12:2; 2 Corinthians 10:5; Philippians 4:8

Live Under the Lordship of Jesus

• Full surrender creates spiritual safety and authority. Scripture: Colossians 2:6–15; Luke 6:46

Use Joy as Spiritual Warfare

• Joy breaks fear’s grip and silences the enemy’s accusations. Scripture: Psalm 16:11; Isaiah 61:3

Reflective Questions

• Where is joy most challenged in my life right now, and what would defiant perseverance look like in that area?
• Which area most resists Christ’s Lordship for me today: finances, relationships, or my inner thought life?
• If I fully trusted that God is working all things for good, what would change immediately in my attitude and actions? 

Isaiah 55:1

“Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters; and you without money, come, buy, and eat! Come, buy wine and milk without money and without cost!

Come and Listen David Crowder

Read More ->>

The Lord's countenance brings clarity and peace of mind (Matthew 5:3)

Enjoying the sunrise this morning and contemplating the birds who get up before the sunrises. "Good Morning God!" is their song. We have the windows open because the A/C went out. As I watch the sunrise and praying for family, work friends and ministry partners this blessing came to me. "The Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace (Numbers 6:26 NKJV)"

Yesterday at SALT and LIGHT we reviewed John 14 where Jesus speaks truth and invites questions. It brought me to ASK and you will receive, SEEK and you will find, KNOCK and the door will be opened. 

• Psalm 4:6 - There are many who say, “Who will show us any good?” Lord, lift up the light of Your countenance upon us. 

God has a countenance but so do we, sometimes our countenance can be diagnosed by our attitude toward God.

• Psalm 10:4 - The wicked in his proud countenance does not seek God; God is in none of his thoughts. 
• Psalm 11:7- For the Lord is righteous, He loves righteousness; His countenance beholds the upright. 

Enjoying the grace of God received as I walk by faith. I will walk in freedom, for I have devoted myself to your commandments (Psalm 119:45, Matthew 6:9-13) now I'm seeing "how" God shows his grace to us and what it means to live with grace upon grace, sufficient grace for everything we need.  The Lord lift up his countenance upon us, is getting back to God see me, let me see you... 

• Grace is often defined as the unmerited favor of God. I've often thought of Grace and Mercy being two sides of the same coin. Grace the free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings. Mercy is compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one's power to punish or harm.
• Numbers 6:26 NLT reads "May the Lord show you his favor and give you his peace." Grace = Show you his favor, Mercy = give you his peace.

It's fun to read different versions of the Bible and receive a new facet. 

What does God's countenance mean?

In Judaism and Christianity, the concept is the manifestation of God rather than a remote immanence or delegation of an angel, even though a mortal would not be able to gaze directly upon him. "Countenance" can be used as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a person's facial expression or the face itself, often indicating mood or character. As a verb, it means to tolerate, approve, or support something. 

Years ago I learned that when Moses asked to see God's glory, he said I will let my goodness pass before you - mercy and compassion. 

Inside the Tent of Meeting, the Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Afterward Moses would return to the camp, but the young man who assisted him, Joshua son of Nun, would remain behind in the Tent of Meeting.

One day Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Take these people up to the Promised Land.’ But you haven’t told me whom you will send with me. You have told me, ‘I know you by name, and I look favorably on you.’ If it is true that you look favorably on me, let me know your ways so I may understand you more fully and continue to enjoy your favor. And remember that this nation is your very own people.”

The Lord replied, “I will personally go with you, Moses, and I will give you rest—everything will be fine for you.”

Then Moses said, “If you don’t personally go with us, don’t make us leave this place. How will anyone know that you look favorably on me—on me and on your people—if you don’t go with us? For your presence among us sets your people and me apart from all other people on the earth.”

The Lord replied to Moses, “I will indeed do what you have asked, for I look favorably on you, and I know you by name.”

Moses responded, “Then show me your glorious presence.”

The Lord replied, “I will make all my goodness pass before you, and I will call out my name, Yahweh, before you. For I will show mercy to anyone I choose, and I will show compassion to anyone I choose. Ex 33:11-19

We often have drown in sorrow, but a meeting with friend transforms our heart and attitude. 

• Proverbs 15:13 (NKJV): A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance, But by sorrow of the heart the spirit is broken.
• Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV) As iron sharpens iron, So a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.
• Worry is a dark thought that is cured with heavenly insight (Matthew 6:19-34)
  

We should see the repetition in Psalm 42-43 as a prescription when our friend is away: Hope in God, praise Him For the help of His countenance!

• Psalm 42:5 - Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance. 
• Psalm 42:11 - Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God. 
• Psalm 43:5 - Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; For I shall yet praise Him, The help of my countenance and my God. 

God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. (Matthew 5:3)

• Psalm 44:3 - For they did not gain possession of the land by their own sword, Nor did their own arm save them; But it was Your right hand, Your arm, and the light of Your countenance, Because You favored them. 
• Psalm 80:16 - It is burned with fire, it is cut down; They perish at the rebuke of Your countenance. 
• Psalm 89:15 - Blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! They walk, O Lord, in the light of Your countenance. 
• Psalm 90:8 - You have set our iniquities before You, Our secret sins in the light of Your countenance.

Read More ->>

Jesus explains the Spirit of the law is love in the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 5:17-48)

Enjoying Studies in the Sermon on the Mount, where Martyn Lloyd-Jones says the point of this teaching to Christians is not "do these things and you'll be a Christian" but "do these things because you are a Christian." 

We've just finished BSF study on Revelation and I learned a new insight about the millennium kingdom that comes before the new heaven and new earth. In the millennium kingdom, the devil is bound and the "world" is gone - but we still have the flesh. The sermon on the mount has been regarded to some as only valid for millennium, but we see it's themes take us through the message of Jesus, "have faith in the kingdom of heaven." 

Purpose in praise and prayer, illustrated in salt and light (Psalms 34; Matthew 5:12-19)

Suffering for peace and righteousness is easy, His burden is light (Matthew 5:3-10,11:30)

Sometimes we're Saul, sometimes we're Ananias (Acts 9)

• Seeking (with a salty thirst): His Kingdom and His Righteousness (Matt 5:6,13,6:33, Jer 29:13)
• God blesses characteristics of people with promises (Matthew 5:1-12)

Often, we want to know "what must I do" (empty way of ancestors)  but Jesus describes "what we must be" (righteous Kingdom of Heaven) - the letter of the law, vrs the Spirit of the law. Matthew 5:17-38

17-20 - Law/Righteousness Kingdom of Heaven: Jesus righteous obedience to the law reminds me of faith, hope, and love - linked to Holy Spirit sin (didn't believe), righteousness (Jesus going to Father in heaven), and judgment (the evil one is defeated). 

• 21-26) Anger/Danger/Curse Hell, reconciliation not murder/prison: empty way of ancestors, murder occurs in the heart, reconcile before sacrifice, settle differences with adversaries.  
• 27-30) adultery, lust eyes and hands/Whole Body Hell X2
• 31-32) Simple Divorce is Adultery
• 33-37) vows to LORD/Yes, I will or No, I won't - maybe is from the evil one.
• 38-42) Eye for eye revenge, vs non resistance, physical (cheek), property loss (coat), work (mile), money (borrow)

43-48) Love neighbor, and enemies through prayer, "children of Father in heaven" - Matthew 5:9) work for peace, called children of God, Matt 5:10) persecuted for doing right, Kingdom of Heaven

Thoughts and feelings

1. We are adopted into God's family and he has requirements for us living in his name. 
2. It's interesting to see that we start out with the Kingdom of Heaven, the three dangers of hell, traditional decision making (fight or flight) and end with Love your enemies through prayer that brings us back to the Beatitudes "God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him. Theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven." Matthew 5:3

Read More ->>

Exemplary Life: voluntary, humble, grace-filled unity with each other and God (1 Peter 5)

SOAP method:
Scripture 1. What verse or verses stuck out to you in your reading?
Observation 2. What did you see that touched you personally?
Application 3. How can you apply your observation so that it impacts your life?
Prayer 4. Where do you need God’s help in applying this truth in your life?

1 Peter 5:1-14
A) Peter urges Christian to humble voluntary oversight by God's will, submitting to Christ
1) Peter exhorts elders, witnesses of Christ suffering, partakers in glory to be revealed
Fellow elder: 2 John 1:1, 3 John 1:1, the elder to chosen lady, her children Gaius "whom I love in truth"
Witness of sufferings of Christ: Luke 24:48, Heb 12:1 highlights that the old testament is also witness "Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us" referring to Heb 11:1-12:1
 - 1 Peter 4:13, to the degree that you share the sufferings of Christ, keep on rejoicing (context 1 Peter 4:12-19 shows that we are blessed because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you - we don't suffer as murderer, thief, evildoer or troublesome meddler. We suffer by obeying the gospel of God, according the will of God - entrusting our soul to a faithful Creator in doing what is right).
Partaker in glory to be revealed: 1 Peter 1:5 protected by the power of God through faith,1 Peter 5:7, proof of your faith (see 1 Peter 4:13 again!) Rev 1:9 "John, your brother and fellow partaker in the tribulation and kingdom and perseverance "
2-3) shepherd God's people, voluntary oversight by God's will, not gain, not lording it over but being exemplary.
 - application: at work, being the boss
4-5) Chief shepherd appears unfading crown of glory ("white hair"), younger likewise subject to elders, clothed in humility toward one another
 - God opposes the proud, gives grace to the humble
 - Grace is God's empowerment, Karen Keller says, Empowering is the act of giving someone the authority or power to do something

B) We are reminded of our relationship with God and how to live the Christian life
6-7) humble yourselves under mighty hand of God, cast anxiety on Him, He cares for you
 - Like a child behind dad's leg when we're scared.
 - Poor in spirit like children, the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these (Matt 5:3, 19:14)
 = Blessings of Moses, explained by Jesus (Deuteronomy 28:1-14;Matthew 5:1-19)
8-9) be of sober spirit, alert, adversary devil seeking someone to devour, resist him, firm in your faith, you are not alone
 - 1 Peter 1:13, "prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ"
10-11) after suffering a little while, God of all grace who called to His eternal glory in Christ will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you.
 - reminds me Genesis 2, God himself made Adam and this is pictured at the resurrection
12-14) Silvanus copy writer, exhorting, testifying true grace of God. Stand firm in it! Babylon, chosen together with you sends you greetings
 - application: stand firm in the true grace of God

Read More ->>

Defiled and unbelieving rebels, sharply corrected to get back to pure faith (Titus 1:10-16)

Words direct our lives. We can either have diseased talk making us worthless for any good deed or we can base our lives on God's word - allow him to change us as well as those in the faith to correct us when we are speaking or living outside the will of God. Titus opens with a sort of warning, "there are MANY rebellious men", they are characterized by empty talk and lies, their own words condemn them. The result of living a rebellious life is summed up as "those who are defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure, but both their mind and their conscience are defiled. They profess to know God, but by their deeds they deny Him..."

Titus 1:10-16
For there are many rebellious men, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision,
 - The message says it this way, "For there are a lot of rebels out there, full of loose, confusing, and deceiving talk. Those who were brought up religious and ought to know better are the worst. "

Goes on to say
who must be silenced because they are upsetting whole families, teaching things they should not teach for the sake of sordid gain. One of themselves, a prophet of their own, said, “Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy gluttons.” This testimony is true. For this reason reprove them severely so that they may be sound in the faith, not paying attention to Jewish myths and commandments of men who turn away from the truth.
 - AMP says, "rebuke them sharply so that they will be sound in the faith and free from doctrinal error
 -  Doctrine is a statement of position or belief (Law, rule, policy, proclamation, concept), several tenants built into a faith (Creed, dogma, gospel).
 - MSG says, "Get on them right away. Stop that diseased talk of Jewish make-believe and made-up rules so they can recover a robust faith."

 - To be sound in faith or have a robust faith is to be pure, evidenced by what we do.
To the pure, all things are pure; but to those who are defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure, but both their mind and their conscience are defiled. They profess to know God, but by their deeds they deny Him, being detestable and disobedient and worthless for any good deed.

Lord give me the grace to follow where you lead, give me a heart of repentance and purify me that I would obey even when it's not convenient. 

Read More ->>

Christ crucified, the power and wisdom of God revealed by Holy Spirit (1 Cor 1-2)

Who is able to advise the Spirit of the Lord?
    Who knows enough to give him advice or teach him? Isaiah 40:13
1 Cor 1-2
Apostle Paul confirms God's will of holiness, granted through faith in Jesus Christ and prays for grace and peace (1-3). He affirms the gracious, spiritual gifts given through Jesus Christ proving God's faithfulness to his promises. He proclaims God will keep them strong to be free from blame on the day when the Lord Jesus Christ returns. God is faithful, he invites us into partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord (4-9).

By authority of Jesus Christ, he appeals to them to live in harmony with each other.
 - Let there be no divisions in the church. Instead be of one mind, united in thought and purpose (10)
 - Authority of "let there be" like Genesis 1
 ? Is it a matter of program that leads to uniting in thought and purpose? So that what is happening in the nursery, should be happening in the "classics" groups. Is it a matter of doing away with "small church" that is focused on individual life stage and have one big group (like mega-church)? Or is it a matter of vision and mission statements with core values (why, what, how)?
A: The division is regarding quarrels over human leaders/teachers (11-12), Christ crucified for you is the message not "who baptized who" (13-17).

My thoughts on vision, mission and purpose and authority:

Seek the kingdom of heaven first every day, Love God Love People, Spiritual Gifts opened and used. "Discover spiritual gifts, motivated by love brings life change" start with why.
 * I was drawn to the statement, "By the authority of Jesus Christ"
 - Authority is transferred from God to us, from us to others (Genesis 2:15,3:17-19, Psalm 8:6, Numbers 27:20, Matt 28:18-20, Romans 1:5,12:3), but ultimately we obey God not man even when obeying man (Acts 5:29, Romans 13:1-7, Romans 14:14)
 - Authority is power (Psalm 89:24, 118:10,11,12, Matt 8:9,9:6,9:8,10:1)
 - Godly authority leads to people rejoicing, wicked authority sin flourishes (Proverbs 29:2,16)
 - Authority is understood in speaking (1 Kings 4:33, Matthew 7:29) proven in fulfillment "sign of Jonah/death/resurrection (Matt 12:38, 16:1-4, 28:1-9)
 - Prophets may speak authoritatively (in God's name), but if it doesn't come to pass you'll know that have spoken not from God's authority (Deuteronomy 18:22)
 - Father God alone has authority reserved for himself (Acts 1:7, 1 Cor 15:27,28)

The message of the cross is foolish to those headed for destruction, but it's the very power of God to those being saved (18-19). Perceived foolishness because it seems to lack heavenly sign and human wisdom (20-23). Those called by God to salvation understand Christ is the power and wisdom of God (24-25), because of the work he's accomplished in their lives (26-28). God united us to Christ, wisdom itself, made right with God, pure and holy, freed from sin - we can't boast in ourselves but God alone (29-31).

Lofty words and impressive wisdom wasn't used in revealing God's secret plan - simply "Jesus Christ crucified" a simple message, plainly stated in the power of the Holy Spirit (2:1-4). So you can trust in the power of God rather than human wisdom (5). Yet with mature believers, we go deeper revealing previously hidden plan of God since the beginning (6-8). We can't imagine what God has in store for those who love him, but God reveals these things to us by his Spirit so we can know what God freely gave us (9-12).

Words of human wisdom aren't used, instead, Spirit's words explain spiritual truths. people who aren't spiritual can't understand what the Spirit means. They aren't receptive to Him, therefore it sounds foolish because they don't hear it (ears that hear).We understand because we have the mind/heart/new birth in Christ (13-16).

Paul talked with them as though they belonged to the world because they weren't ready for bigger things as evidenced by control they gave their flesh, proved through behaviors (3:1-4).

But just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please man, but to please God who tests our hearts. 1 Thessalonians 2:4 ESV

Read More ->>

Accepting others differences means abstaining from our freedoms (Romans 14)

Romans 14
A) Accept other believers, let God judge his servants
1) Accept others in fellowship differing faith maturity not arguing about opinions
 - God’s acceptance: Acts 10:47-48; 15:8-11 
2-3) Food and sensitive conscience, don't look down on each other
 - Special diets: 1 Corinthians 8:1-13; 10:23-33 
 - Avoiding meat: Daniel 1:8-16 
 - Dietary restrictions: Exodus 23:19; Leviticus 11; 17
4) Don't judge God's servants, Lord will they'll stand or fall
  - Idols: 1 Corinthians 8:4 
 - Christian freedom: 1 Corinthians 8:13 
 - Honor one another: Romans 12:10 
 - Gift of God: Ephesians 2:8-9 

B) Worship observe and honor the Lord with thanksgiving
5) Every day is significantly holy, be convinced your choice is acceptable
 - Maundy Thursday - Mandate to Love, Friday Jesus died for our sin, Sabbath when God rested from creation, Resurrection Sunday, Monday BSF...
 - Most important is "today"
 - Special days: Galatians 4:8-11; Colossians 2:16-17
6) worship, observe, honor the Lord on a special day, eat or abstain with thanksgiving
 - Good gifts: James 1:17
7-9) We live and die for the Lord, we are his, Jesus death/resurrection is Lord of dead and living
10) Why condemn/criticize/look down another believer? We'll all stand before God's judgment seat
 - Talents, rewards
 - Rescue the one, help him put it to work, give him an opportunity
 - Last day: Romans 2:16; Acts 10:42; 17:30-31
 - Judgment seat: Romans 2:5-16; Revelation 20:11-15
11-12) Every knee bows, every tongue confess/declare allegiance/give praise to God
 - Every knee: Isaiah 49:18; 45:23
 - Acknowledge God: Philippians 2:9-11
Principle: gratitude and thanksgiving remove the critical spirit.

C) Decide abstinence for others good, following God's conviction
13) Stop condemning each other, decide to live NOT to cause another believer to stumble and fall
 - don't be a source of temptation
 - Jesus as judge: Acts 17:31; Hebrews 4:15

14-16) Nothing unclean, but if it causes distress - abstain and you won't be criticized
 - Opportunities: Matthew 11:21-24
 - Every secret exposed: Matthew 7:21-23; 10:26; Mark 4:22; 1 Corinthians 4:5; Hebrews 4:13
17) Kingdom of God not food but righteousness, peace, and joy in Holy Spirit
 - Accountable to God: Romans 3:19
18-19) Attitude in serving Christ, please God and others, harmony church build each other up
20-21) Don't tear down God's work over food, it's better to abstain than cause another to stumble
 - Opportunity to repent: Hebrews 9:27
22-23) beliefs between you and God, blessed no guilt, but doubts "am I sinning" follow conviction and stop.
Romans 14:1-8;Romans 14:9-12;Romans 14:13-18;Romans 14:19-23

Read More ->>

3 sets of 3 weeks makes a habit

At the end, 30 min. She says ideas take 21 days to form, habit takes 63 days.

Bsf carries a lesson for 14 days, what if TL reminded us of the past 2 weeks aim, linked to this week building into tonight? Would that help people solidify God word? What if there was included SMART challenge that was simple enough for everyone to achieve?
https://youtu.be/YiXP_gBMPYs

What if the year was planned around the scriptures. Welcome/fellowship 1 week before a new section, new leaders 4 weeks before new section. Seminar lined up with teaching for that week. Year planned through 3 iterations before year starts. Allow STL to pick based on section or time.

Thank you God for bringing help in my time of need. Let your will be done in my life, in Jesus Name. Amen.

Read More ->>

God's gifts and our commitment are bonded by love (Romans 12:1-21)

AIM: Discover spiritual gifts, motivated by love brings life change
Romans 12:1-8
A) God's mercy seen creates a devoted life in His will
1) See God's mercy, give self fully to God is worship
2) Not pattern world, transformed/renewing mind, able do God's will
Illustration: Cain (Look what I brought God) and Abel (look what you did God)
Cain couldn't see God's mercy and took LIFE into his own hands, killing his brother. God's mercy was then revealed in Cain, God protected Cain (Gen 4) - Lemech didn't get it (70 times 7 REVENGE). Jesus said 70 times 7 Forgive (Matthew 18:21-22).
Many in the church struggle with self-deception:

• Lying to yourself, that you aren't sinning (Romans 14:23; Proverbs 30:20; James 4:17; 2 Timothy 4:3;1 John 1:8-10;2:4)
• Thinking your "Christian" when you don't live a Christian lifestyle (Luke 6:46; James 1:26; 1 John 2:4;1:6; 3:9-10)
• Thinking "I'll get away with it" (Galatians 6:7; 1 Cor 6:9-10; Proverbs 28:13)

Application: Debug your heart, Let the Holy Spirit and God's word expose and judge the intentions of your heart.

 Ephesians 4:23-24 and Colossians 3:10 says, "...let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy." and "put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its creator."
Heb 4:12 says, "the word of God is living and active and full of power [making it operative, energizing, and effective]...penetrating as far as the division of the soul and spirit [the completeness of a person], and of both joints and marrow [the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and judging the very thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Ephesians 5:10,17 says, "Test and prove what pleases the Lord" and Don't be foolish but understand what the Lord's will is"

Application: Is my sacrifice pleasing to God, where am I focusing on worldly patterns rather than the Godly pattern in his Word?

B) God's gracious gifts used in humble, united service (3-8)
3) Grace given me, not better in self, by faith God distributed to us
4-5) body many parts, function in Christ, belongs to each other
6) different gifts (1 Cor 7:7), according grace given (empowerment): 
 - Same LORD and Spirit, God at work (1 Cor 12:4-6)
 - Gift to equip others, reach unity (Eph 4:11-13, John 14-17)
 - We are stewards of these gifts, purpose is God's glory in Christ (1 Peter 4:10-11)
7-8) Gifts according to grace: Prophesy/faith, serving, teaching, encourage, give/generously, lead/diligently, mercy/cheerfully
Illustration: Lot is an example of not using gift faithfully. (Lord) rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was distressed by the depraved conduct of the lawless (2 Peter 2:7). Jesus sends us out, says Listen! Don't miss it! You'll be judge, wrong intentions in your heart need to be cast out in the name of Jesus! (Luke 10:12-17). Jesus was reminding the 72 about Lot (Luke 10:1-12) and what happens when people don't come out (Gen 19:14,15). So when God destroyed the cities of the plain, he remembered Abraham, and he brought Lot out of the catastrophe that overthrew the cities where Lot had lived. (Gen 19:29) but
Lot used his freedom to be an unaware, incestuous drunk (Gen 19:32-35). Why didn't Lot go back to Abraham for humble help in this matter?
Principle: Two things make a Christian miserable, 1) unrepentant sin and 2) not using your gifts to serve the Church.
Application: Spiritual gifts inventory, what gift haven't you opened yet? Consider serving in an unfamiliar way (test and approve).
Also:lot
Romans 12:3; Romans 12:4-5; Ephesians 4:1-6 ; Romans 12:6-8; 1 Corinthians 7:7b ;1 Corinthians 12:4-6 ;Ephesians 4:11-13 ;1 Peter 4:10-11

C) Love enthusiastically, sacrificially serving and trusting the Lord (9-21)
9-10) Love sincere, hate evil, cling good, devoted/honor one-another in love
11-13) spiritual fervor, serving the Lord: joyful/hope, patient/affliction, faithful/prayer, share/people/need, practice/hospitality
14-15) Bless (no curse)/persecutors, empathy: celebrate/rejoicing, comfort/mourning
16) Live/harmony/each other, not proud/conceited, associate with low positions
17-21) Not evil for evil, careful/right eyes of all, possible depends on you: live/peace not revenge, trust God's plan: overcome evil with good

Read More ->>

Ears to hear and eyes to see - both are gifts from the Lord. (Proverbs 20:12)

My friend is going to Jordan in March this year. They will be aiding our wonderful missionaries in their work and partnerships with anti-trafficking safe homes, refugee learning centers and local middle eastern churches.
These thoughts came to mind in prayer, people have been blessed with ears to hear so that they can understand.
Matt 11:15,Deut 29:4, Isaiah 6:10, Luke 8:4-18, Proverbs 20:12
Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand! (Matt 11:15), But to this day the Lord has not given you minds that understand, nor eyes that see, nor ears that hear! (Deuteronomy 29:4) The rest of  passage gives evidence of why our hearts are hardened by God (Deuteronomy 29:2-29,19,24,25,29), making his word of little impact in our lives (Isaiah 6:10, Luke 8:10-14)

Lord give me wisdom that I would pay attention to how I hear. To listen for more understanding. History shows that when I'm not listening, even what I think I understand will be taken away from me.

Help me to follow where you lead, to understand and trust you fully. Amen

Read More ->>

Suffering in Christ, with Holy Spirit brings unfathomable hope (Romans 8:17-30)

Romans 8:17-30

AIM: The Gospel promise is available to everyone who believes

One of the most treasured scriptures is Romans 8:28 "God works all things for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose." This is consistently seen throughout the Bible. God sees our affliction (2 Samuel 16:12,22), belief is a sign of being called (Acts 13:48, Eph 2:8-10), God calls us through his love demonstrated in Christ (John 3:16, Romans 1:7) yet not all accept the gift of God and suffer condemnation instead of justification (John 3:17-21, Romans 8:30). Notice the tension between "those who love him" and "have been called".

God's call is good for everyone (John 3:16) and irrevocable (Romans 11:29) the only sin left that is unforgivable (eternal) is to not accept the Holy Spirit (Matthew 12:32, Mark 3:29). Accepting the Holy Spirit is to trust God with your life, receiving His work in you. Accepting God's call to receive Jesus (John 1:12) is not about saying the right thing (Matthew 7:21) it's about being transformed by the Spirit inside out (John 3:3, Romans 12:1-3).

Being transformed by the Holy Spirit will be evident to you (Romans 8:16, Galatians 5:22-23) and others because of your persevering faith and hope (1 Cor 13:13), peace (Matthew 5:9, 1 Peter 4:7-11) and love like Christ (John 13:34-35) from a pure heart (1 Peter 1:22), that you demonstrate to children (Mark 9:36-37) and people in need in our everyday life (Matthew 25:39-40).

People are called by God through us (Matthew 10:40, Luke 10:16) through Christ, through the Father (John 13:20). Even so, in this world, we still suffer but our hope is in the resurrection, eternal life, the promise of God through Jesus Christ and that's the essence of Romans 8:17-30, let's have a deeper look.

A) Family of God and the world suffer together with hope of restoration by God
17) children, heirs of God with Christ, share Christ sufferings then also in glory
Application: God precedes all who follow his way
18) present suffering not comparable to future glory
Application: seek first the kingdom of heaven
19) creation waits for God's children to be revealed
20) creation subjected to frustration by God, Adam's consequence (Gen 3:17-19, Gen 5:29) in hope
21) creation would be liberated from the bondage of decay, into freedom and glory of children of God

B) We groan, eagerly waiting for redemption of our bodies
22) whole creation groaning pains of childbirth
23) we (with Spirit) groan inwardly, eagerly wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies
24) For this hope, saved hope that is seen is no hope at all
25) but hope for what we don't have, wait patiently
Application: Hope is the architect, has the blueprint. Faith is the worker, Love is the executive (joyful toons 1 Cor 13:13)

C) The Holy Spirit helps us in ways we can't understand (unfathomable hope)
26) Same way, Spirit helps in our weakness, we don't know what to pray, He intercedes wordless groans
 - Application: His yoke is easy and his burden is light - see, feel, trust
27) He who searches our hearts knows mind of Spirit who intercedes accordance with God's will
 - Psalm 139:23-24, search me God and know my heart, test me and know my anxious thoughts. see if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Application: When we give ourselves fully to God, he guides us in the way of everlasting.
28) WE KNOW that in all things Gods works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose
29) God foreknew, predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son
30) predestined, called, justified and glorified
Application: The Gospel promise

Prayer: Lord help me to live today according to your will to love others as you have first loved me.

Geysers, planters and pruners: How people are born into and matured in the Faith

Read More ->>

Tasteful, sunny disposition brings glory to God (Psalm 34:8, Matthew 5:13-16)

Tasteful is defined as "showing good aesthetic judgment or appropriate behavior" and sunny is "(of a person or their temperament) cheery and bright", when we bring these qualities to our disposition it brings glory to God. This is what Jesus talked about in Matthew 5:13-16 (as he alluded to Psalm 34:8 - "Taste and See that the LORD is good"), "Salt and Light together...so that many will see your good works and praise God"

Stickers promoting my friends cafe

Disposition is the power to deal with something as one pleases

The Bible teaches we have 3 enemies, the Eph 2:1-3, the world, the flesh, and the devil
 - a "fleshly" disposition says "I do what I do, because I want what I want" -selfishness

• The Holy Spirit opposes the flesh: Gal. 5:16-7

 - a "worldly" disposition says, "take all you can, no one will give it to you" -godlessness

• The Father opposes the world: I John 2:15-17, the world tries to shape our thinking toward godlessness (John 15:18-25)

 - a "devilish" disposition says, "I do what I do, because I hate myself and others" - wickedness

• The Son opposes the Devil: Luke 4, I John 3:8

Disposition is a person's inherent qualities of mind and character

"By his divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know him, the one who called us to himself by means of his marvelous glory and excellence. And because of his glory and excellence, he has given us great and precious promises. These are the promises that enable you to share his divine nature and escape the world’s corruption caused by human desires. In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God’s promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with patient endurance, and patient endurance with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love for everyone. The more you grow like this, the more productive and useful you will be in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But those who fail to develop in this way are shortsighted or blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their old sins. So, dear brothers and sisters, work hard to prove that you really are among those God has called and chosen. Do these things, and you will never fall away. Then God will give you a grand entrance into the eternal Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." -2 Peter 1:3‭-‬11 NLT

Disposition is the way in which something is placed or arranged, especially in relation to other things:
Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8 ESV
 - Years ago this became part of my "life verse" (1 Peter 4:7-11). I've said it before but this "love covering a multitude of sins" is preventative. When we share our lives with people, showing the way and blessing them with our gifts, talent and blessing. We change, the world changes and God is glorified.
 - Glorifying God isn't something we add to God, it's pointing out to others that He is glorious, awesome and wonderful.

Read More ->>

Humility: It's not about us (Phil 2:3-8)

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:
Philippians 2:3‭, ‬5 NIV
http://bible.com/111/php.2.3-5.NIV

We must desire to have the same mind of Christ. (Phil 2:5)

When tempted, no one should say, “God is tempting me.” For God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does he tempt anyone; but each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
James 1:13‭-‬15 NIV
http://bible.com/111/jas.1.13-15.NIV

Who do we look up to? We adopt the attitude of Christ, or someone else.
- Be obedient to God (Phil 2:8)

I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2:20 NIV
http://bible.com/111/gal.2.20.NIV

- Live to serve, not to be served (Phil 2:4)

Read More ->>

Whoever is wise, consider the steadfast love of the Lord (Psalm 107:43)

Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things; let them consider the steadfast love of the Lord .

Psalms 107:43 ESV 

He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and burst their bonds apart. Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! Some were fools through their sinful ways, and because of their iniquities suffered affliction; they loathed any kind of food, and they drew near to the gates of death. Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He sent out his word and healed them, and delivered them from their destruction. Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!
Psalms 107:14‭-‬15‭, ‬17‭-‬21 ESV

Read More ->>