Dan Berry (ArtistOfWords) Offline

47 Happily married Male from Bolivar       205
         
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Stress, Anxiety, and Depression part 2

Have No Fear in Love. 1 John 4:18-21

18 There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.

19 We love because he first loved us.

20 If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.

21 And this commandment we have from him: whoever loves God must also love his brother.



If we are ever to overcome our grief, anxiety, depression, or any other negative emotion that has gripped us then we must seek God’s righteousness in such a way that we value everything that God values. What does God value? That’s a long list but Jesus said the greatest commandment was to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. He went on to say the second to this command is to love your neighbor as yourself. He said all the Law and all the things the Prophets had to say depended upon these two commandments.

We already spoke about loving God, and we could talk about how to do that all day every day. Let’s focus for a moment on our love for others though. Jesus told a parable about who his neighbor is. Jesus showed through his actions how to treat others as well. Loving your neighbor is not just telling them God loves them and sharing the gospel, although that would be a great start.

Loving your neighbor involves meeting any need you are able to meet and hoping in your heart that they prosper in Jesus' name. I once heard a man say he loved someone but if they did this or that, then he would be ready to throw hands. I’m going to remind you that although we may need to defend ourselves from persecution, it is better to flee it if we are able. There is little accomplished by our own fighting unless the Lord is commanding us to go do that fighting.

Just like when we have lustful thoughts, we sin in our hearts from adultery; we also sin in our heart when we have hateful, hurtful, and shameful thoughts about another. These thoughts will grow into who the world sees if we do not learn to control them. None of us are perfect, but we need to be aware that sometimes we are the reason that we are experiencing bad stress. You can’t be seeking God while you are pursuing your own agenda. Pray for your neighbor in love that God would intervene and release them in forgiveness when they offend you.



Rejoice and Be Content. Philippians 4:4-13

4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.

5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand;

6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

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

9 What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.

10 I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity.

11 Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content.

12 I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.

13I can do all things through him who strengthens me.



Paul reminds us to rejoice. The day is far too long for you to beat yourself up. Find joy in your day. Find joy in the purpose that God has for you in that day. Previously I reminded the church here that there is nothing that you can do that will truly give you joy. As we see from the book of Nehemiah, the joy of the Lord is your actual strength. Joy is not of our own doing. It is of the Lord, and it isn’t based on your feelings or the status of whatever situation you may find yourself in. True joy is based upon what Jesus has already done for you. That gift is free to anyone that desires to receive it and is not changeable. It is the solid rock you can build your life upon so rejoice!

Paul tells us to let our reasonableness be known to everyone. The Message translation says it in the following way:

4-5 Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him! Make it as clear as you can to all you meet that you’re on their side, working with them and not against them. Help them see that the Master is about to arrive. He could show up any minute!

Once more, quit being anxious about things and with thanksgiving in your heart seek God. If we are seeking and serving God with all we have, we will find that we have no time to worry over the things that we cannot change anyway. If we are truly walking with the Lord, then we will experience stress and trials the same as any other person. The difference is that you won’t have to fight those battles, the Lord will fight them for you.

Stop looking at all the negativity in the situation you face. Stop coming up with every excuse to say you can’t. Whatever good and blessed thing of God in the situation, remember this and know that God can! Try it and see what a world of difference comes when you start speaking of the positives in the situation and praising God for it!

Be happy and content with whatever you have. Let me give you examples. If you’re worried about your job, know that God has things well in hand. If your season ends with this one or is affected, don’t you think that God has the solution of something even better just around the corner? If your worried about your bills, don’t you know that God owns the cattle on 1000 hills and can supply whatever you may need?

Whether in abundance or in need, let’s learn to give thanks for what we have that is a blessing. Don’t allow the devil a foothold by looking upon things in a way that casts a shred of doubt on God’s ability to infinitely supply the things of importance that He already knows you need. Don’t forget that you may be powerless right now, but you can do all things Jesus is strengthening you to do!

Return to Your First Love. Revelation 2:1-5

1 “To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: ‘The words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands.

2 “‘I know your works, your toil and your patient endurance, and how you cannot bear with those who are evil, but have tested those who call themselves apostles and are not, and found them to be false.

3 I know you are enduring patiently and bearing up for my name’s sake, and you have not grown weary.

4 But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first.

5 Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.



Understand church that we are no different than Ephesus. We may recognize evil and sin for what it is. We may not follow any who is of an evil and sinful heart. We can test the scripture and know what is true and patiently endure all things while waiting upon the return of Jesus. However, if we have forgotten how to love God and one another, we need to repent and do so quickly.

Understand that when we allow that anxiety, bad stress, and depression to make us think badly of even ourselves, we are also refusing to love the creation of God. God desires you to also love yourself while loving those around you and following Him in your deepest love. You can become the biggest obstacle in your own faith in God if you allow those problems to make you concentrate on what makes you less while ignoring what God does that is great.

I’d like to share just one more thing as we close today. Some of us may still be asking how do I give my anxiety to God. David is someone who had a lot to say about surrendering to God. Allow his words in the following verses to guide you in how to approach your trials today and tomorrow. It is through God that David knew he could overcome his obstacles. It didn’t make the trials fun, but it did make them bearable.









Draw Close in Affliction. Psalms 119:49-72

49 Remember your word to your servant, in which you have made me hope.

50 This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life.

51 The insolent utterly deride me, but I do not turn away from your law.

52 When I think of your rules from of old, I take comfort, O Lord.

53 Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked, who forsake your law.

54 Your statutes have been my songs in the house of my sojourning.

55 I remember your name in the night, O Lord, and keep your law.

56 This blessing has fallen to me, that I have kept your precepts.

57 The Lord is my portion; I promise to keep your words.

58 I entreat your favor with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise.

59 When I think on my ways, I turn my feet to your testimonies;

60 I hasten and do not delay to keep your commandments.

61 Though the cords of the wicked ensnare me, I do not forget your law.

62 At midnight I rise to praise you, because of your righteous rules.

63 I am a companion of all who fear you, of those who keep your precepts.

64 The earth, O Lord, is full of your steadfast love; teach me your statutes!

65 You have dealt well with your servant, O Lord, according to your word.

66 Teach me good judgment and knowledge, for I believe in your commandments.

67 Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep your word.

68 You are good and do good; teach me your statutes.

69 The insolent smear me with lies, but with my whole heart I keep your precepts;

70 their heart is unfeeling like fat, but I delight in your law.

71 It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I might learn your statutes.

72 The law of your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces.



Maybe you do not know the Jesus we have discussed. You heard of him though and you can know him. We have discussed stress and all that comes from it, but it would be a huge mistake if we left out the only way that you can ensure your future. If anyone hearing this today knows they need to know Jesus, don’t delay. You can come up front, you can pray wherever you may be sitting, but let us pray with you.

Maybe you’ve been struggling with the stress, anxiety, and depression and you want to finally be free. Do not leave here today with anything unresolved. Ask God to guide you in Jesus’ name. You do not have to face the trials of life alone.

Stress, Anxiety, and Depression part 1

STRESS AND DEPRESSION

We all have stress. The Lord hears and restores us. Psalms 34:17-19

17 When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears and delivers them out of all their troubles.

18 The Lord is near to the brokenhearted

and saves the crushed in spirit.

19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all.



We all have stress. We all have moments of anxiety and depression as well. So many times, we feel alone. We may feel unwanted. We may be facing a decision that we do not know how to handle. Maybe there is some sort of loss in the family from the death of a loved one to the death of a beloved pet. Sometimes our jobs bring that stress. Sometimes the very people we come to rely upon put a burden upon us that is difficult to bear.

We all have those moments though and the Lord is not deaf or unaware of what troubles us. Somewhere along the way, we have developed this culture of believing that if we are right with Jesus; we will have no difficulty. The truth of the matter is that no matter who you are, you will have times of trials and tribulations.

How many times can we look at the scripture and see this for ourselves and still expect everything to be perfect in our lives? From the Old Testament to the New, we see example after example of difficulties, worry, and struggle. We see examples of stress. We hear the calls of those who hurt coming from the pages as we read. We can imagine and even feel if we try what it may have been like in their day.

Surely Adam and Eve knew what it was like to find themselves in a position where they didn’t know what to do. After all their entire world was changed with one bad decision. Noah faced the people of his day no doubt considering him to be an outcast as he followed God’s plan of building an ark when there was no expectation of rain.

What about the prophet Elijah? One day he prayed, and fire fell from the sky consuming not only the sacrifice but all around it. A day later he fled for his life and begged God to just let him die underneath a tree. I am certain he felt alone and scared. He shows a level of fear and anxiety to such a level that depression is clear. If only he knew that the Lord would send an angel to refresh and encourage him. Later, read in 1 Kings 19 about the effect of a snack and a nap when stressed out.

David ran from Saul for quite a while, hiding out in caves, and being protective of his very life. Yes, he was anointed as king, but he was also human. Once he was on the throne, we can read how many times he was burdened yet he learned what we are here to learn today. God is always in control.

Let’s move to the New Testament. The apostles were persecuted to the point of being hunted for their faith. They were put to death in the cruelest fashions. I am sure that they were scared and stressed in these times even if they knew the good that God had planned in their very near futures.

Jesus prayed that the cup be taken from him that he was to drink if it was possible but that not his will, but the Father’s will be done. Luke 22 goes on to tell us that his sweat became as drops of blood. A quick search online will tell you that this is also evidence of a stress related event. Bloody sweating is called hematohidrosis and it may occur in individuals suffering from extreme levels of stress.

We all have stress but sometimes stress in and of itself is not a bad thing. Stress prompts us to react and to make decisions. This sort of stress may lead to times of anxiety, depression, and the like but it also provides an opportunity for growth. We learn from our experiences and from this we grow in our endurance in faith. We learn to trust the Lord in all things. We learn to rely upon God more than we rely on others and even ourselves.









Find Your Rest. Mathew 11:28-30

28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

29Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

30For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”



The words of Jesus tell us to come to him with all the things that worry us to the point of dragging us down. His promise is that he will give you rest. This promise comes with something we must do as well, however. Take my yoke upon you means we must surrender our will to God and allow Him to lead and guide us. Sometimes that is easier said than done for many of us. We struggle with doing what we think is right and doing what God says is right. We are doers and often we get the idea that we need to do all the doing. Now we can struggle, and God will be patient and allow us to learn in our difficulties or we can do it his way and as verse 30 says, His burden is light. How do we do that though?

Give Your Anxiety to God. 1 Peter 5:6-11

6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you,

7 casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

8 Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

9 Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.

10 And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.

11To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen.





Humble means to value your own importance as less than another's. It doesn’t mean you are not important, but it does mean that there is another who has a position of honor, of importance, and greater value than anything you have to offer. In the context it is to look to God for all answers. It is to wait upon God to bring deliverance from whatever situation we may find ourselves in.

God already knows what you face, and God knows how to best deliver you from your stress and anxieties in life. The Word says to cast all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. We do not serve a God who is uncaring and unloving of us. He knows every hair on your head. He knows every tear cried in your secret place.

Let me explain it this way. Most of us are fathers or mothers. We may be uncles or aunts. When was the last time you can remember seeing a child in pain of any kind and it did not bring a sense of alertness to the issue facing them. A good parent not only knows and cares about what may hurt their child; they also are sure to do something about it.

Life as we know it is us as a people struggling with a curse of sin and death. Consider that sin for a moment to be like a raging sea that we are barely staying afloat in. A good father would be going crazy if their child was struggling in a situation of drowning in sin. That’s what our Good Father sent his Son to rescue us from. He is the only lifeline thrown into those waters that we may use to escape our sin and return home by. We must choose though if we will turn to God’s offer of salvation. He deeply desires us to trust Him with those things that trouble us, but we must choose.

Scripture says to be sober. Stay alert and on the lookout in life. The devil is just looking for the time and opportunity to push us around. His desire is to make us feel so pushed around, beat down, and miserable that we lose trust in God. If we reach the point where we are doing it all ourselves, don’t think you are getting ahead just because today seemed to go alright. It is all about sowing seeds of distrust when the devil attacks.





We must continue to trust and seek God in those times of trouble, and we are promised that He, not we, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. The question is though, how do we give all that anxiety to God?

What Are You Anxious About? Mathew 6: 25-34

25 “Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing?

26 Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?

27 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?

28 And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin,

29 yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

30 But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith?

31 Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’

32 For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.

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

34 “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.



It seems so difficult for us to do what the scripture clearly tells us here. The reason it is so difficult is because from day one, we have all been conditioned to be self-sufficient. We are told to take care of business. We are taught to fix things ourselves. Can it be so simple as stating our need boldly before the throne of God and then waiting upon Him to supply our need? Let’s look a bit closer and find out.





Jesus told those following him very plainly to not allow themselves to become anxious. He explained that the Father sees to all aspects of the world around them, and He already knows their need before they even say they need. He gives the example of food and of clothing, but we can also apply that to so many aspects of our lives.

You may say I understand that God will see to my food and clothing but what about my home? How will I provide for my family. How will I make it through the sickness all around and afflicting me? How will I find comfort when everything seems to be falling apart around me? How will I? How will I? How will I?

Do you see a pattern here? On your own you may work hard and do everything that you can think of to acquire anything you can dream of that you may think you need. On your own you may get a few of those things but then again, you may strike out and not receive any of them. The problem here is clear and evident. We are not the solution. So, what is? I am so glad you asked!

Jesus told his followers and disciples to first seek the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. God’s righteousness means for us to live in such a manner that we are in a right relationship with the Lord and that by living in an upright manner that we have moral standards that reflect our relationship with the Lord. I’m just going to throw something out there. When was the last time someone told you that you remind them of that Jesus they heard about?

We’ve discussed it before, but God is not the genie of the sky waiting for you to make your demands and wishes of him. It doesn’t work that way but many times we fall into the trap of continuing to live and do things as we see best without first seeking God’s will through prayer, study of his word and character, and patience in waiting. Let me tell you about a friend of mine.

I have this friend that has so many difficulties in life, but he also has quite a few blessings that often go unnoticed. His list of desires is endless at times. He desires comfort, relationships, and a life that is not as troublesome as he currently believes he has. When he has need, he is quick to find a believer and ask them to pray that God will give him whatever he desires on that day.







Sometimes God blesses us even when we aren’t acting according to his will, character, and purposes for us. My friend sometimes remembers to give thanks but most times he finds time to find something about the given situation to have a problem with. This usually results in blaming the ones who prayed with him and upon God for not doing exactly what he wanted. I mean God should know right?

As an outsider looking at this story, you may shake your head and say to yourself something like that guy needs to get his priorities in line. I’d have to agree. I’d also have to point out that most of us have times where we are exactly like my friend in this story. Are we seeking what God desires of us or are we seeking our own glory?

Do you find yourself worrying about what may happen if you do this or do that? Jesus taught to let tomorrow worry about itself. You will have enough difficulties today. That doesn’t mean to not plan according to God’s purposes when we seek him. It does mean to not worry about what will happen if you seek God’s face and his purpose for you.



Do Not Be Distracted. Luke 10:38-42

38 Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house.

39 And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to his teaching.

40 But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, “Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.”

41 But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things,

42 but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.”

Mary sat at the feet of Jesus and listened to everything he was saying. She was invested in his words. It had meaning to her. Martha also believed that Jesus was important. He was so important to her that she busied herself with serving and working to make her home perfect and inviting for her. She complained that she was doing all this work and her sister was doing nothing.

What did Jesus point out though? He told Martha she was anxious and troubled by many things but only one thing was necessary. Mary was receiving what was most important by what she was doing. She would never lose what she was receiving.

For so many of us we may be inviting to Jesus, but we think we must clean up our home for us. We get so busy doing this and doing that. If we are not careful, we may end up missing what he has for us to receive. This too is doing things on our own rather than waiting upon him. Do you not realize that God will take care of the cleanliness of your heart if you will just seek Him out and listen at His feet?

That home in your heart will be cleaned. You will find a time and way to serve. You will do all those things God has in mind for you. Just like putting together furniture though, you will need to follow the instructions that the Carpenter gives you. You can try to do it on your own but when you don’t have enough, or you have left over pieces just realize that what you have built is not what the Father had in mind, and it won’t be nearly as sturdy without Him.



Alien Vs. Predator

There is something to be said for the movies that have become popular over the years. One in particular is this one. From the early beginnings of Arnold screaming, "Get in the choppa!" to Sigourney cursing the spawn of aliens that hunt her and her crew, there is action packed into each movie in both series even before they face one another. What I'd like to focus on is not praising filmmakers and actors for a job well done but rather; I'd like to make a comparison if I may.

You see in biblical terms we also have aliens and predators. Both of them are savage, keenly intelligent, and cunning beyond everyday comprehension. In fact, one of them may be a person you've recently spoken to. I can tell some people aren't quite getting this so let me break it down.

Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Galatians 5:19‭-‬21 ESV

The alien draws in those who search for answers as it mimics not what they desire but instead what they understand. We are a confused and strange people as a whole. Our bodies and our minds drift to this pleasure or that. Some aliens are so adept at offering us what we naturally want that we become confused on what we actually need.

The alien lurks in shadows. It knows you're there. It knows your name and all about you. The alien understands scripture better than most and will attempt to confuse the spirit to make it chase after carnal desires.

What is carnality though? That's a big word. Dictionary.com lists two meanings for the word with both being a noun. A noun is a Person, Place, Thing, or Idea boys and girls, just in case it's been awhile since you were an elementary student.

1. preoccupation with, or indulgence in, the flesh or the body and its passions and appetites; sensuality:
Giving in to the lures of carnality—whether that means porn or real-life promiscuity—is damaging to everyone concerned.

2. the quality or state of being merely temporal or worldly; lack of spiritual vitality or maturity:
Complaints about salary, jealousy, ambition for a reputation, and other forms of carnality show how little we ministers are separated from the world.

And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. So it is no surprise if his servants, also, disguise themselves as servants of righteousness. Their end will correspond to their deeds.
2 Corinthians 11:14‭-‬15 ESV

The predator mindset has no problem with verbally spouting facts, even those about Jesus. They will listen to your praise and worship with a civil smile that hides an evil sneer. When the topic of Jesus is brought up in earnest discussions, the predator mind attempts to thwart the word of God going forward.

The predator uses such tactics as subterfuge to allow it to blend in to its surroundings making it invisible to all but those who carefully look for its' signs of passing. A skilled hunter is this alien. It picks off weaker targets at ease but keeps looking for even greater achievements, if only it could get the devout to look in another direction so it may attack.

The predator uses clever and advanced weapons. A spear of mistrust thrust into the company of friends, a fiery sword of a burning tongue that engages in gossip and misleading talk, and great words that fire off with deadly accuracy taking targets at will. The predator is indeed a fearsome foe because it looks and often sounds like a brother or sister of the faith until they strike with deadly precision.

Now that we can identify the alien and the predator let's now evaluate what we do with them. Both of them seek your destruction or at the very least to turn you away from the path you are on for the Lord. They both can appear as something they really are not. They masquerade in plain sight where they gather throngs of supporters praising them for their insight and knowledge while all the while displaying rotten spirits of fruit.

Now you may say, that seems a little extreme. Aren't you just calling names and making accusations? How does that show your fruit? The plain and simple answer is I wish I didn't have to call an apple an apple when it wants to identify as an orange. Grass does not become blue just because we don't want it to be green. People do not serve Jesus just because they say they do and all the while act as savage as wild beasts.

And Jesus answered them, “See that no one leads you astray. For many will come in my name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will lead many astray.
Matthew 24:4‭-‬5 ESV

And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray. And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.
Matthew 24:11‭-‬12 ESV

Now hold up just a moment there preacher! A Christian can't be led astray. Friend, I say, how can someone who is already lost to Christ be led astray? They are already lost. Why is it friends that false prophets arise to lead us astray if they are able?

The simple reason is they want to give you whatever it takes to subvert your mind and your will to seek after anything other than Jesus. You are being hunted my brothers and sisters. Do you not understand yet what resolve is. You must decide today, tomorrow, and everyday to follow Jesus and pray and pray that God keep you from temptation and evil, that the Holy Spirit will lead and guide you.

But the one who endures to the end will be saved.
Matthew 24:13 ESV

Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed. Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord. See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no “root of bitterness” springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled; that no one is sexually immoral or unholy like Esau, who sold his birthright for a single meal. For you know that afterward, when he desired to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no chance to repent, though he sought it with tears.
Hebrews 12:12‭-‬17 ESV

Many will read this and feel personally attacked. It may anger you to know that I care more for your eternal soul than for your temporary feelings which age and change daily. Some may say I speak about this one or that one and how dare he call someone else false. To that I say if mold has formed on the bread, the entire loaf is moldy.

Some will point fingers and ignore me. I am fine with that because in those quiet moments I will pray for those I know that are struggling. A rare few will read this and understand my intent. To those I say may God continue to bless and lead you. Above all friends, guard your heart and all things that open the way to it, what you hear, see, think, or hope to have.

The way us narrow. Do not become prey to be picked off along the way by the aliens and predators. Let them feud amongst themselves and seek for yourself your only means of protection, the living God. Thank you Lord Jesus for all you do to lead and guide us through this trying life. May you come soon.

Jesus: Teacher and Friend

John 14:15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments. Jesus said if you love him, you will keep his commandments. Now for so many people they may reason that they do their best and that is a good start but what I’d like to focus on is why do you keep those commandments. The very first commandment Jesus gave happened before most of his public ministry ever began. Mark 1:14 Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, 15 and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.” Now Jesus did not come saying I’m going to do my best, so you just do yours too. He proclaimed that it was time just as was prophesied in Daniel 9:25, the anointed one had come into the world. The kingdom of God was right there in their midst. What he said next, many believers seem to struggle with though. Repent means simply to turn away from what you were previously doing. It means in this case that what we were doing was offending someone and in this case that offense is against God. We must then seek to make amends and find forgiveness if we are able. Thankfully, that was the entire purpose of Jesus coming to mankind as he did...so that we may find forgiveness of that sin. The other part of that commandment was to believe the gospel. Now that doesn’t mean the gospels of Mathew, Mark, Luke, or John. They had not yet been written. It meant that we needed to go back further and believe in the words given by God to his prophets throughout the ages and believe that God is truthful. They needed to believe that the promise was being fulfilled right before their eyes. That was then and this is now. Have we repented of those things that we are doing that we know in our hearts are offensive and sinful before God or are we continuing to do those things that we know are sinful? Do we believe that Jesus is who he says he is? The world tells us so many things about what we should believe, about what is and isn’t offensive. The world tells us to believe what it says about God, about Jesus, about the words of scripture left to us by God. God on the other hand simply says I AM. I was asked to speak a word about the attributes of Jesus today and there is just too much to say to ever contain it in one book, much less one sermon. What I’d like to focus on today is the attributes of Jesus as a teacher, but in the same thought I want you to think of Jesus as a friend because that is exactly what he was to his disciples then and today. He didn’t give them a list of rules and say do your best church. He said if you love me, you will keep my commandments. I know that many of us do our best to keep those commandments and that is amazing. Some of us don’t know what we are to keep and what is expected of us. If you are new to the faith or are just considering it while listening today that is an expectation. If you’ve been a believer for a while, it is not an excuse. Some of us come to church knowing we are doing wrongly and living in sin. Now I’m not here today to beat you down no matter what stage you find yourself in. You and God both know the truth of the matter. Following Jesus should be easy. I didn’t say that you would not have concerns in the world, and I didn’t say the world and all the powers of the devil wouldn’t fight against you. I said following Jesus should be easy. Why then is it so hard for us to wrap our heads around a concept so simple that children can understand? Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Let’s look at just 8 of the things that Jesus taught. If you have your Bible, go ahead and turn to Mathew 5, starting at verse 3 through verse 12. Let’s look at one of the most well-known teachings of Jesus and see what Jesus had to say about these things we should be if indeed we are seeking Him and if we will see God in heaven one day. I’m using the ESV but follow along with whatever translation you are comfortable with. Mathew 5:3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. What does that mean poor in spirit? Does it mean that since I’m poor I am more blessed? No, not quite. Someone who is poor in spirit is guided entirely by God’s purpose and ways rather than the world’s values. This person doesn’t think highly of themselves or their ability to earn anything as it comes to God. They recognize that without God, they have no hope or salvation so they instead choose to willingly surrender to God’s way and will. As a child you may have remembered desiring something from your parents or another adult of influence in your life. There is and has always been the urge to try to fix things in our own way for so many of us. I don’t need dad to help me fix this treehouse. I don’t need mom to help me reach that cookie on the top shelf. How many times do we fail and fall before we say I don’t have the tools or the ability? That is the state that someone who is poor in spirit comes to with God. They do not have the wisdom to complete the plan. They can’t hope to reach the heights of heaven on their own. They come to God as a child with the attitude that I can’t, but I know that You can Lord. 4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. We have all experience loss of some sort in our lives. Parents and grandparents have passed, friends we have lost. Some are brought low by the loss of pets but that is not what is meant here, although one day we are promised every tear will be wiped away. Just as all children do, we have failures in our lives. When we know that we have come short in our own relationship with God, this type of person recognizes it, and it makes them feel remorse. It makes them grieve having offended their Heavenly Father. This type of person is offended at the sin they see in the world because it grieves God. It is for this very reason that every minister of every variety does their best to reach out to anyone who will listen to them about the gospel of Jesus. What grieves the Lord, also grieves them. One way to look at it is with how many of us defend our family. A new believer may be overly zealous and say what did you say about my dad or mom? A more mature believer yearns to reach out to even the one who is offensive to their family that they may be restored and welcomed into that family with all the offense forgiven. This is what it is like to mourn. 5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Quoting from the study notes of my Bible here. Meek does not simply suggest a modest attitude toward other people. The “meek” are those who are humble and submissive to God. They depend on nothing but him for security in life and refuge from trouble. They are more concerned about God’s work and God’s people than about what might happen to them personally. Once more, as a child, who took care of you when you fell and scraped your knee? Who provided the food that you might eat. Who made sure you had a roof over your head? Now some of us may have even had a poor upbringing but ultimately someone was always supposed to be there looking out for each of us as a child. As an adult now for many, but still a child in His eyes, your Father in heaven still provides all you need. 6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. The notes from the study here once again hit the mark. Without this intense desire for righteousness, a person will not pursue a deeper relationship with God or even try to develop the rest of the character traits that Jesus describes. The Christian’s hunger for God and his purposes is hindered-and even destroyed-by the worries of life, deceitfulness of wealth, desire for temporal things, lust for life’s pleasures, and failure to trust Christ and remain in a right relationship with him. When the only thing that matters is how much closer you can become to Jesus, we are talking about hunger. When the only thing that will meet that need deep down in your gut is Jesus, we are talking about thirst. When the only thing that matters is just being next to someone who is closer than a friend and doing as they do because they are just awesome, we are pursuing righteousness. For another time but on your own, read in scripture all the times that God says if you seek me, I will be found or something similar. 7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. A merciful person is a compassionate person. They are compassionate and do their utmost to help, assist, and lift others who are suffering. With that said, some of us are passively merciful and some are actively merciful. Some wait for a chance to ease the discomfort of others reasoning that when the moment comes, they will do such and such. Some are out there looking for ways to not only bless another in distress but in so doing, they show their devotion to God. Are we passive or are we active in our ministry before God to our neighbors? Do we hide inside from a potential day we could show the Jesus inside us to others in an act of merciful love or do we look not only for the opportunity to be a blessing but also are we actively looking for someone to share this amazing gift we each have been offered, Jesus. 8 “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. The pure in heart have been freed from sin by God’s grace and they are devoted to serving God in the best ways they possibly can. They want to have the same feelings as God does for all things, to love as God loves and to be distressed by the same sin that God is distressed by. Their standards are by God’s standard and not what the world says is just. They show moral purity, spiritual integrity, and separation from evil with devotion to God. Let’s break that down a little further though. Moral purity is when your thoughts and actions align with what God says is pure and holy. It is by His standard and not affected by how the world, an individual, or even how we feel. Spiritual integrity is when we are in such a relationship and knowledge of God that we understand that He is always with us and that our actions should always be in line with doing what God would desire. They do not want or desire what is offered outside of the goodness of God. If God is all you want, then God will be all you need. 9 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. A peacemaker is in a right relationship with God, and they are living in and experiencing God’s peace because of the sacrifice and restoration Jesus provided. Because they are at peace, they will make every effort to share that peace with others that they may also know the peace that comes from God. Paul also spoke of this later when he said in Romans 12 that “if possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.” Being a peacemaker is not caving into the desires of a sinful world. It is not condoning sin to be acceptable in any way, shape, or form. Being a peacemaker is staying in that right relationship with Jesus and treating others not as we would but as Jesus would. That peace that Jesus offers cannot be mistaken for what any other man or woman is capable of. 10 “Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11 “Blessed are you when others revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. Quoting again from the study material in my Bible. People who follow Christ and live according to the principles of God’s Word with face opposition and rejection. Those who uphold God’s standards of truth, justice, and purity, refusing to follow and walk in the ungodly lifestyles of society will be unpopular. They will receive criticism and opposition from the world and at times from those within the church. If you are trying to follow Jesus in truth, you will eventually run into rejection. Desiring only what God wants will get you strange looks, unkind speech, and possibly violence done to you whether in damaging words or in more violent ways. Jesus clearly points out that if you encounter this to rejoice and be glad. That’s not saying you want or that you desire such treatment, but rather that you know that by seeking righteousness what awaits you is greater than anything left in the world. On another note, the devil is completely happy for you to come to church. He has no problem at all with it. That may get a couple of strange looks and comments, but it is true. Let me give you something to think about. The devil could sit on the front row and has no problem smiling at you. He has no problem shaking your hand. He will be at every fundraiser and event even. What the devil does have a problem with is for us to truly seek Jesus with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. One of you sitting here today may say, I am trying to keep all these teachings. I’m trying to go by all these commandments. I’m doing my best to “obey the rules”. I just struggle. I’m here to tell you we all struggle. We all have moments that we need help and that’s because we can’t do it on our own. It doesn’t have to be as hard though when we get our priorities straight. In closing I’d like to do something unusual for just a moment. Have you ever had someone that you really admired. It could be an older brother or sister, a teacher, or even a sports personality. When I was a young man, I loved baseball. I was a huge Cubs fan as a teenager, and I could have quoted all sorts of stats back then. Some of you could probably do the same thing with those you admire. At one point I had decided that if I was going to play the game as well as my hero, then I should probably get to know all I could about him. My hero back then was hall of fame second baseman, Ryne Sandberg. I wanted to know what Ryne ate because I wanted to have the same health. I wanted to know how he exercised because I wanted the same conditioning for my body. I wanted to know how he practiced because I could then imitate what he did. I wanted to know how he related to players, coaches, and fans because I wanted to also be known as a great team member. The problem we all have with following Jesus sometimes is not the rules or the commandments. It is a lack of desire. We mean well oftentimes but we lose focus on what is important. We quit focusing on who our hero ought to be and we begin focusing on what we are not. You will never become like Jesus when you are focusing on what you lack.

The reason the disciples began spreading the gospel as they did after Jesus ascended had a couple things in common. They really wanted to be like Jesus. They wanted to do all things as well as he did. They knew they couldn’t do it on their own. They had to rely on the Holy Spirit to teach and remind them of all Jesus said. They accepted a great commission that Jesus gave them before leaving earth in bodily form.

You also, have been given that same commission. We are all called to be ministers of Christ, taking the gospel of Jesus to our home and well-known places, then to our close but known of places, and on to the entire known world. I try, I try so hard. I’m so upset at the person I have been. I can’t forgive myself for all I’ve done. I’m so sorry. Peter may have once said these words to Jesus. Jesus said do you love me...feed my sheep.

Rapture of the Church

“The resurrection of those who have fallen asleep in Christ and their translation together with those who are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord is the imminent and blessed hope of the Church (1 Thessalonians 4:16, 17; Romans 8:23; Titus 2:13; 1 Corinthians 15:51,52).”

Jesus taught that He will return to earth. He was careful to warn His disciples to be constantly prepared for this (Matthew 24:42-51; 25:1-13; Mark 13:37; Luke 12:37).

They understood that the present age will end with His coming (Matthew 24:3). The assurance of His return was one of the truths with which He comforted His followers before His death (John 14:2, 3).

At the time of Christ’s ascension two angels came to the group of watching disciples to repeat the promise that He will return. They declared it would be in the same manner as He went away (Acts 1:11). This clearly means His second coming will be literal, physical, and visible.

The New Testament Epistles refer often to the Second Coming, and the theme of imminence runs through all the passages of Scripture dealing with this subject. Though there would be a period of time between the first and second comings (Luke 19:11), the whole body of teaching concerning the return of the Lord emphasizes that it will happen suddenly without warning; that believers should be in a state of continual readiness(Philippians 4:5; Hebrews 10:37; James 5:8, 9; Revelation 22:10).

Believers in the early days of the Church lived in this state of expectancy (1 Corinthians 1:7; 1 Thessalonians 1:9, 10). Paul’s “we” in 1 Corinthians 15:51 and 1Thessalonians 4:17 shows that he maintained the hope he would be alive when Jesus comes back.

A comparison of passages of Scripture relating to the Second Coming shows that some speak of a visible event seen by all mankind and involving the judgment of sinners.Others describe a coming known only to believers and resulting in their deliverance from earth.

The latter is referred to among evangelicals as the Rapture. This word is not in the English Bible, but has been used so widely that one of the definitions of “rapture” in Webster’s Third New International Dictionary Unabridged is: “Christ’s raising up of His true church and its members to a realm above the earth where the whole company will enjoy celestial bliss with its Lord.” The word raptured could well be used to translate the expression “caught up” of 1 Thessalonians 4:17. Jesus said His coming will result in one individual being taken from a location while another is left. This indicates a sudden removal of believers from the earth with unbelievers left to face tribulation (Matthew 24:36-42).

Jesus spoke of His return as a time when the nations of the earth shall mourn as they see Him (Matthew 24:30). The apostle Paul spoke of the Lord’s return as a time of judgment and wrath upon the wicked (2 Thessalonians 1:7-10).

In 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, he considered a different aspect of the Second Coming. This brief passage is the most direct and clear teaching on the Rapture in the New Testament. It speaks only of believers, living and dead. Nothing is said about the wicked seeing Christ at this time. Paul described Jesus as coming in the air, but nothing is said about His feet touching the earth, as we are told elsewhere they will at His return (Zechariah 14:4). It is the moment when 1 John 3:2 will be fulfilled, and we shall be like Him.

The same Greek word used in 1 Thessalonians 4:17 for “caught up” is used in Acts 8:39 to describe Philip’s being “caught away” after baptizing the Ethiopian. The latter verse states that the Spirit of the Lord caught Philip away—identifying the source of the power that will remove believers from earth at the Rapture.

In 2 Thessalonians 2:1 Paul called the Rapture “our gathering together unto him.” The Greek word for “gathering” is the same as the one used for “assembling” in Hebrews 10:25, referring to the assembling of Christians for worship. It is a picture of the saints congregating around Christ at His coming for them.

The supernatural removal of godly individuals from earth is not unknown in Scripture. The outstanding event in the life of Enoch was his miraculous disappearance from earth after years of walking with God (Genesis 5:21-24). The author of Hebrews called this experience a translation, bypassing death (Hebrews 11:5).

Although some aspects of Elijah’s translation differed from Enoch’s, it also involved the sudden removal of a believer from the world without experiencing death (2 Kings 2:1-13).

First Corinthians 15:51-54 deals with the same event as 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. Here also Paul spoke of the changes that will take place in both living and dead believers at the Rapture. He called this a mystery (1 Corinthians 15:51), a truth previously unrevealed but made known to him by the Holy Spirit.

In Philippians 3:21 Paul connected the Lord’s coming to the time when “our vile body” will be changed—another reference to the Rapture.

Passages which pertain to the Rapture describe the coming of the Lord for His people. Passages which refer to the revelation of Christ describe the coming of the Lord with His saints. Colossians 3:4 speaks of believers appearing with Christ at His coming.Jude 14 also foresees the Lord’s return with His people to execute the judgment referred to in many other passages relating to His public appearing.

Since Scripture does not contradict itself, it seems reasonable to conclude that the passages describing Christ’s coming for the saints and with the saints indicate two phases of His coming. We believe it is scripturally correct to assume that the intervening period between the two is the time when the world will experience the Great Tribulation,involving the reign of Antichrist and the outpouring of God’s wrath on the wicked (Daniel 12:1, 2, 10-13; Matthew 24:15-31; 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12).

Although God’s people may endure severe trials before the Lord comes, the Church will be raptured before the period called the Great Tribulation.

In 2 Thessalonians 2 Paul indicated certain things must take place before the Day of the Lord (of which the Great Tribulation is a part) can begin. An individual called the man of sin (Antichrist) will appear. The mystery of iniquity has been at work since Paul’s time but is being restrained by the power of the Spirit working through the true Church. Only when the Church is removed from earth by the Rapture can this man come forward publicly.

In 1 Thessalonians 5, following the passage on the Rapture in chapter 4, Paul taught about the Day of the Lord. He warned of the destruction it will bring to the wicked(vv. 2, 3). He was quick to assure Christians that those who abide in Christ will not be overtaken by it (v. 4).

Still speaking of the Day of the Lord Paul wrote: “For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ” (v. 9). It seems clear that he meant the deliverance of believers from the judgments of the Day of the Lord, including the Great Tribulation.

Christians are told repeatedly in the New Testament to be watchful for the Lord’s appearing. Never are they taught to watch for the Great Tribulation or the appearance of Antichrist. To expect that such things must happen before the Rapture destroys the teaching of imminence with which the New Testament is replete.

Believers are told to wait “for his Son from heaven,” not the Great Tribulation (1 Thessalonians 1:10). When the signs of the end of the age are evident, they are to look up and lift up their heads in expectation of their redemption, not the Great Tribulation (Luke 21:28).

The signs of the Lord’s coming will be fulfilled before His public appearing, but they do not have to be fulfilled before the Rapture. Any teaching that certain events must transpire before the Rapture is out of harmony with the doctrine of imminence.

It is consistent with God’s dealings with His people in the Old Testament to believe that the Church will be removed from the world before the Great Tribulation. God did not send the Flood until Noah and his family were safe in the ark. He did not destroy Sodom until Lot was taken out.

The weight of Scripture supports a pre-Tribulation Rapture. Wherever teaching about the Second Coming occurs in the New Testament, imminence is underscored. To interpose other events before the Rapture does violence to such teaching.

While Christians are looking forward to the coming of the Lord, it is well to remind themselves of Paul’s words to Titus: “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our saviour Jesus Christ; who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works” (Titus 2:11-14).

God Comforts Those In Affliction

2 Corinthians 1:3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.

Comfort means to stand beside a person to encourage or help a person in times of trouble. Paul praises God saying he is the God of all encouragement during times of trouble here. He comforts us in our afflictions. Why does God do this? One reason, according to Paul, is so that we may comfort others as they also go through affliction. We have seen trials and temptation already and we know that since God seen us through these issues, He will also see others through their own times of need.

5 For as we share abundantly in Christ’s sufferings, so through Christ we share abundantly in comfort too.

When we share in Christ’s sufferings we go through times of temptation and various sorts of trouble. Although we may not go through the exact things that Jesus did, we are better able to relate to Jesus. Depending on Jesus during these times of trouble will draw us closer to him. It is through Jesus that we are able to comfort others.

6 If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation; and if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which you experience when you patiently endure the same sufferings that we suffer.

Paul says here that all the things that he and his ministry team are going through are for the comfort (the encouragement) of the one who hears about their difficulty. He says that their comfort or their encouragement is also for the one hearing about it.

When we hear of other faithful believers experiencing great difficulty it can build us up as believers because we see God working with them and walking with them during this time. We will also go through similar times of temptation, trials, and frustration and can be encouraged by how God has acted previously in the lives of others who walked with him, both in good times and in the bad times.

7 Our hope for you is unshaken, for we know that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in our comfort.

Paul tells the church at Corinth that no matter what they may suffer his hope for them in Jesus' name is not shaken. It is not changed. It is an unfaltering hope. He knows that just as they will have times of difficulty, they will also have times of great joy. It is the encouragement in Jesus that each brings to the other that is important.

8 For we do not want you to be unaware, brothers, of the affliction we experienced in Asia. For we were so utterly burdened beyond our strength that we despaired of life itself. 9 Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead.

Paul tells the church that he had times of great difficulty. He had times of danger, fear, and even of despair. It was not in their strength to handle alone. They thought they may die from all the tremendous stress and anxiety of the experience. All of these dangers, fears, and moments of despair did one thing though. It told them that it was not their burden to bear. It was God that they needed to rely upon and not their own abilities.

10 He delivered us from such a deadly peril, and he will deliver us. On him we have set our hope that he will deliver us again.

What God has done before; God will do again. It is God that we also must set our hope upon. When we feel we cannot endure anymore; we need to remind ourselves of all that God’s faithful have endured throughout history, all that our family in Christ Jesus have endured, and all that we personally have endured in Jesus’ name. Sometimes we go through desperate times to learn to rely upon God and not ourselves.

11 You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.

Praying for one another in their times of need releases God’s power. It is our fellowship in Jesus that does this. Where two or three are gathered together in Jesus’ name there will he be (Mathew 18:20). We are shown all throughout scripture that we are to be in prayer for one another (Romans 1:9, Ephesians 1:16, Philippians 1: 3, Colossians 1: 3, 1 Thessalonians 1:2).

As we pray for one another in our times of need we are uplifting the other person. It is not our ability that provides comfort. It is the Holy Spirit within us as we reach out to others in support and encouragement. God answers our prayers when we humble ourselves and seek his face. Likewise, when we are in times of comfort we also need to pray and give thanks to God for all that He has already seen us through; knowing that He will see us through future times of trouble. This helps our faith grow as our endurance is built upon.

I can do all things, not through my own personal ability, but through Jesus who gives me that strength. When we feel we are at our limit we can look back at the lives of all the saints in scripture, we can look at our fellowship with others who faithfully serve the Lord, and we can learn from our own past as God guides and directs our lives.

It’s almost like a personal cheering section as each comes forth to our memory reminding us to continue to rely upon God in all prayer and supplication both in times of good and bad. You can do this they all encourage because God is with you.

Will you be that loving encouragement to others? Will you remember and lift each one you know up in prayer each time they come to memory? Will you comfort and encourage each other? It starts with prayer and allowing Jesus room to work in your heart.

The Great Banquet

Luke 14:12He said also to the man who had invited him, “When you give a dinner or a banquet, do not invite your friends or your brothers or your relatives or rich neighbors, lest they also invite you in return and you be repaid. 13But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, 14and you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you. For you will be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”

15When one of those who reclined at table with him heard these things, he said to him, “Blessed is everyone who will eat bread in the kingdom of God!” 16But he said to him, “A man once gave a great banquet and invited many. 17And at the time for the banquet he sent his servant to say to those who had been invited, ‘Come, for everything is now ready.’ 18But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, ‘I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it. Please have me excused.’ 19And another said, ‘I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them. Please have me excused.’ 20And another said, ‘I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.’ 21So the servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house became angry and said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly to the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in the poor and crippled and blind and lame.’ 22And the servant said, ‘Sir, what you commanded has been done, and still there is room.’ 23And the master said to the servant, ‘Go out to the highways and hedges and compel people to come in, that my house may be filled. 24For I tell you, none of those men who were invited shall taste my banquet.’”

Jesus was in the home of one of the leaders of the Pharisees when these things were said. Jesus had taught these men many things on this day. He had healed a man on the Sabbath day which was a serious offence in Jewish culture and religion. He reasoned that they would have gone to help an animal but questioned why they would not help a person.

Jesus next spoke about where a person would sit at a feast or celebration. He reasoned that it would be better to be humble and be asked to sit in a place of honor rather than assuming that a person was due that honor and placing themselves there. Jesus goes on to explain that a person who thought highly of themselves would be humbled and those who humbled themselves would be lifted or elevated to a position of honor.

As we look at the selected scriptures today, let’s focus on what is also echoed in John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”

Jesus speaks in vs. 12-14 about the value of doing good to others, especially to those who could not repay the good done to them. All throughout scripture Jesus showed a deep care for the poor and the oppressed. In this section of scripture, he tells those Pharisees with him that God will remember and reward them for the kindness they show others when they do so with no expectation of a reward to follow.

What we see in vs 15 is characteristic of what is seen not only with the Jews of Jesus’ day but also with the church as a whole of today; the speaker assumes that they are in a good standing with God based upon their understanding of religion and of God.

A relationship with God, however, is not about maintaining the rules and appearances of a proper worshipper. While it is true that we are to obey the commands of Jesus and that would bring about change and Godly character with us, it is also true that our entire being will be changed when we fully submit to God in Jesus name.

James 1:22 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.

Jesus goes on to speak about a great banquet in parable. It’s important here to understand exactly what Jesus speaks of. The subject here is the future kingdom of Christ following his return as a physical ruler over his people.

The ones initially invited were certainly the Jews and their leaders. They expressed a desire to see God’s kingdom but they refused the invitation because they did not believe Jesus met their expectations of who they believed Jesus ought to be as Messiah. Today that invitation is to all people and the same story is true. Many who say they are awaiting the fulfillment of God’s kingdom will be found waiting not on Jesus but upon their own cares and desires.

When we place our goals upon what we can gain in this life, we are not placing our eyes upon the things of heaven. Col. 1:2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. We are instead placing our desires on what we can acquire in this life and those things do not last beyond our time in this life.

Jesus tells the story of how a master had a great banquet and invited many people. When it became time for the banquet though, they all began to make excuses. The excuses used were poor ones as well. One reasoned he had to go see land he had purchased. This shows a greater interest in personal material gain than it does upon the desires of the master of the banquet. The next man says he must go look at animals purchased. He says that it is more important that he try out or look at a new possession than to come at the master’s call. In the last excuse we see a man who said he had recently married. In the culture of the day, women would not have been allowed to attend. Even so, this is a poor excuse because the man would have had the invitation in enough time to have made arrangements of being present. It is another example of desiring what makes a person happy in the moment than what the master of the banquet desires of them.

Vs. 21 tells us the master of the banquet became angry at their excuses. It was a personal insult to him that they all would reject his invitation. The master says to go and invite in those who were the outcasts in society. Invite in to the feast those who have not been invited. When we hear of the invitation going to the streets and lanes of the city, we are actually seeing a picture of God’s love for everyone.

God desires not only those who were initially invited but also the ones who do not seem to fit in to the expected mold of a worshipper. He commands that invitation be to those who have little, to those with varying disabilities, and to those even further away. God desires to love and bless every single one who will respond to his invitation.

God says through this parable that when we have invited all those who we can see in our nearby locations, we are to go to the highways and hedges and invite them in. This means that the invitation is not for just those close to the area but those who may be far away. It means this same invitation is not only for the people of two thousand plus years ago; it is also for you.

Jesus concludes this parable by simply stating that those who denied the invitation by having worthless excuses will not be at the great banquet. This has meaning in that it shows it is not enough to look the part of a worshipper; God desires a true heart of worship. God desires a people who will love him and respond when he says enter in. God desires to not only bless but elevate that person who humbly responds to his call.

If you feel this call and are ready for a change then it is a simple matter to receive this invitation to join Jesus. It does not mean you have to make yourself ready. God sees you just as you are and says Come.

Romans 10:9because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

If you do not know Jesus as your savior, then simply call out to God. There is no perfect prayer aside from the one that comes from your lips in this matter. If you’ve never prayed then that is no issue either. Just begin to speak to God as you would a trusted friend. Come to the wedding feast that Jesus has prepared for you.

Subject to Authorities

Shepherd and Overseer of your souls

1 Peter 1:13 Be subject for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether it be to the emperor as supreme, 14 or to governors as sent by him to punish those who do evil and to praise those who do good. 15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people. 16 Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. 17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust. 19 For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly. 20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God. 21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 22 He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. 23 When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. 24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed. 25 For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls.

What does it mean to be subject to those who are given authority over us? This is a question that has been on the minds of many believers in these recent days. Some will say that they follow and support this leader or that they follow and support another leader. We live in a blessed age where many of us have a choice in whom these leaders may be, whether what we want happens or not. The real question may be then; does it matter who is the authority appointed over us?

The words of the apostle Peter are clear as he tells us to be subject to every human institution no matter the level of authority, they are in. This is certainly also true when we examine party lines and those we trust and those we do not trust as leaders. It truly does not matter who the authority is and the regime they represent. It is our place to simply live and do good in the sight of the Lord, our God.

We do this not so that we may impress upon others our own greatness or goodness, but rather we do this so that God may be given glory and his name lifted up instead. What we have many days is a people desiring to make God a part of their own political belief system when God is far removed from not only our politics but our way of thinking as well.

Isaiah 55:8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts,

neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.

9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth,

so are my ways higher than your ways

and my thoughts than your thoughts.

We say to ourselves far too often that we are on God’s side with how we vote, with how we think, with how we live, with how we act, and with how we represent Him to others. Meanwhile, what is often true is that we are engaged in our own familiar sins and casting sidelong glances at others. It is a natural thing for us to want to place ourselves upon a pedestal and look down upon others. It is a natural thing simply because we are naturally born with a predisposition to sin. What are we supposed to do as we go about the routines of our daily life then?

16 Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.

Live your life as a free person but don’t take advantage of your freedoms as an excuse to do things that are evil in the sight of God. What is evil in the sight of God then and while we are at it...what is good in the sight of God?

19Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, 21envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. 24And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

As we seek to make sense of all the complications of politics, let us make sure that we do not allow them to interfere with our faith in God that far exceeds what political party we may or may not support. We are to be subject to the authorities over us whether we agree or disagree with their decisions. We are to even pray for and love them even when we do not like them as leaders. Romans 13 goes on to discuss this in great detail.

What then are we to do? Should we continue to say that we are holy because the political entity we support is currently in power or out of power? Or, should we say; God is mighty and in control and there is a reason He has allowed things to happen even if we do not understand, let us give praise to God who is over all?

17 Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

How do we honor everyone? Quite simply we love them and think of their needs before selfishly seeking what may be the greatest gain for ourselves. Love the brotherhood. That means to love and rely upon those of faith in the trenches right along beside you. Fear God. The same God who loves you with a love so deep and wide that we cannot comprehend is also the same God who calls you to put aside your pettiness and follow Him no matter the personal cost to you. Honor the emperor, simply put, is to respect that authority and pray for its prosperity even if it doesn’t seem to do what we believe is just at the moment.

18 Servants, be subject to your masters with all respect, not only to the good and gentle but also to the unjust. 19 For this is a gracious thing, when, mindful of God, one endures sorrows while suffering unjustly.

Do not think that we are the only ones to ever live in a world full of indignities and hostilities for the faith. Indeed, the faith was spread because of the harshness of governing bodies in the very beginning of the church. No matter if a ruling body be of gentleness or they be of constricting nature, we must pray for and support them in obedience, knowing that the King of Kings is truly in control.

20 For what credit is it if, when you sin and are beaten for it, you endure? But if when you do good and suffer for it you endure, this is a gracious thing in the sight of God.

Once more, we are to live as a free people and not use our freedoms as an excuse to commit evil in the dark thinking that what we say and do will not be uncovered or made known. If we are living in some sort of sin and are punished for it, we have gained nothing. Yet if we are living as God fearing people and doing our utmost to serve in a way worthy of the cross, then we are found to be bearing spiritual fruit and true growth in our walk of faith with Jesus Christ our Lord.

21 For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you might follow in his steps. 22 He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. 23 When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly. 24 He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.

Jesus set the example for our daily life. The scripture is very clear on this point. Jesus certainly did not like what was about to happen to him as he prayed in the garden. He recognized the ploys of the Sadducees and Pharisees as well as the oppression of the Roman government placed in authority upon the people. He desired above all things that the Father’s will be done and not his own. He, who was before all things, made himself be subject to the authority of the day.

Jesus did not seek the demise or downfall of the authority surrounding him. He endured and set the bar so that we may be free of sin and live in righteousness. If you have accepted the free gift offered to you, then you also have been healed and made clean before God. If you have not made the decision of faith in Jesus, then a very important decision is now before you.

Whose authority will you ultimately choose to be under and whose example will you follow, Jesus or the bickering sin-filled world seeking your destruction?

Who Will You Serve

So Samuel said to all the Israelites, “If you are returning to the Lord with all your hearts, then rid yourselves of the foreign gods and the Ashtoreths and commit yourselves to the Lord and serve him only, and he will deliver you out of the hand of the Philistines.”
1 Samuel 7:3 NIV

Following the defeat of Israel at the hand of the Philistines, we see in earlier chapters that many men were lost but also that the ark of the covenant had been captured and taken to Philistine.

As it passed from ruler to ruler and city to city, the people of Philistine were severely afflicted by tumors. Their god Dagon was seen by them as being even subject to the God of Israel.

Fearing for their own safety and well-being it was decided they needed to return the ark to Israel. Please read the preceding chapters for more on that.

What happens next is from the prophet of theord, Samuel. He commands the people of Israel who were greatly rejoicing to commit to God with their entire heart and to put away all that was not of God.

By doing this, God would save them amd deliver them from the hands of their enemies. Only by giving to God their entire being were they to experience God's protection in this time.

Today, this message is still true. Many times we desperately need God. We recognise ourneed of God and we cry out for Him to rescue us, to deliver us, to lead us, and to guide us.

Even though we see this need though, many times we find ourselves holding onto our gods of the flesh and become unwilling to letthem go so that we may serce God with our whole heart.

We justify ourselves with doctrines that view our faith in Jesus as being all sufficient and say that if we have stated this we are assured God's eternal protection and kinship.

While faith in Jesus does indeed offer this promise, let's look at other things that are also in scripture and get the bigger picture. Jesus himself said to love the Lord your God with all of your heart, mind, and soul.

Jesus also commented to one man that he should sell all his possessions then follow. To another he said let the dead bury the dead. He also said why do you cry Lord, Lord yet not do as I command.

In the end times Jesus taught of goats and of sheep. Some would say but Lord we prophesied in your name. We taught in your name. We...and Jesus will say depart from me I never knew you.

Now with these examples in mind, we must come to the conclusion that Jesus understood giving your whole heart to someone as so.ething more than making excuses to keep returning to what kept you apart.

Will we make mistakes? Sure. We are human. What is of importance however, is that we continually seek Jesus and not keep going back to the safety crutches of our past. That is an ongoing relationship.

When we, as a people, decide to seek the Lord with all of our hearts and trust in only Him then He will deliver us from what is attscking and keeping us hostage in our faith.

Choose today in whom you will serve.

Experiencing Love

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16 ESV

What I love about God’s love is the closer you get to him, the more you learn about him. And the more you learn about him, the more you love him.


The same thing happens in human relationships, right? Love always means learning about the other person. That’s what makes falling in love so exciting. I remember when I first met Dawn. We spent hours on the phone, learning about each other. “Oh my goodness. You like blue? Blue is my favorite color!” “You’ve eaten pizza? Wow, I love pizza!” The dumbest stuff ever.


That’s the way relationships work. Learning leads to loving. Pursuing produces passion. It’s not head knowledge, it’s heart knowledge. We don’t just learn facts about God—we experience his love for ourselves.


Sometimes, though, people think they know all they need to know about God. They’ve experienced him once, and that’s enough. “Been there, done that.” And when they start believing they know all there is to know about God, then their relationship with him stagnates.


Maybe you’ve experienced stagnation in a relationship in your life. You take someone for granted. You stop learning about him. You assume you know everything about her. A relationship like that—if you can even call it one—will eventually shrivel up. I’ve seen it happen in marriages, I’ve seen it happen in friendships, and I’ve seen it happen with people’s love for God.


True love never stops learning, because we can never know everything about another person. Relationship is the ongoing process of getting to know someone. That’s what makes marriage so exciting: two people falling continually into love, learning and changing and experiencing one another over a lifetime.


It’s what makes following Jesus so exciting too. The closer I get to him, the more I realize how far away I was from him. The more I know him, the more I realize how little I knew him. Jesus’ love is oceanic. It’s bigger than you could imagine. His grace is deeper. His mercy is wider. You have to experience it for yourself—not through stories from your neighbor, or your mom, or your pastor. Yes, he loves the world. But you and I are the world.
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