Revelation 19 – 22 and Happy New Year

Revelation 19 – 22

Well, this is it: the end of our reading the Bible chronologically. You have now read the back of The Book and found out that we win. This reminds me of that great song sung by the Cathedral Quartet: I’ve Read the Back of the Book and We Win. You can see the video at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pSJJIi74Ld8

“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband.” WOW!

I hope you’ll read through the Bible again this coming year, maybe with a different translation or read it in the way it is customarily laid out.

Happy New Year

I sincerely wish everyone of you a happy New Year. May God’s richest blessings be yours.

Revelation 12 – 18 and Santa Barbara Beach

Revelation 12 – 18

In these chapters, we meet “the large red dragon with seven heads and ten horns, with seven crowns on his heads.” He is identified as “the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world.”

We also meet “a beast rising up out of the sea,” with “seven heads and ten horns, with ten crowns on its horns.” Each head had names that blasphemed God. One of these heads suffers a fatal wound, but the wound is healed and the people worshiped the dragon for giving the beast such power. They also worshiped the beast.

Those who worshiped this beast were those whose names were “not written in the Book of Life before the world was made—the Book that belongs to the Lamb that was slaughtered.” Is you name written in this Book?

As if the dragon and the beast from the sea are not enough, we also see “another beast come up out of the earth. He had two horns like those of a lamb, but he spoke with the voice of the dragon.” This beast is very powerful and performs miracles. He orders the people to make a great statue of the first beast, who came back to life. He is “permitted” to give life to this statue so it can speak. The second beast orders that anyone who refuses to worship this statue must die.

Everyone who wants to buy or sell must have a mark, either on his hand or on his forehead. This mark is either “the name of the beast or the number representing his name.” Hence, we see why the number “666” is so ominous.

We are introduced to the 144,000 who are described as “redeemed from the earth.” One angel flies through the sky, carrying the eternal Good News to proclaim to the people who belong to this world.” Another follows him shouting that Babylon is fallen. A third angel follows them shouting that anyone who worships the beast and his statue or who accepts the mark on his hand or forehead “must drink the wine of God’s anger.”

We are told what all this means: “God’s holy people must endure persecution patiently, obeying his commands and maintaining their faith in Jesus.”

An angel swings a sickle over the earth and loads the grapes into the great winepress of God’ wrath. The blood flows from this winepress in a stream about 180 miles long and as high as a horse’s bridle.

Seven angels are introduced who hold the gold bowls of the seven plagues. They are ordered to pour out on the earth these bowls containing God’s wrath. And they do: malignant sores, the sea becomes like blood and everything in it dies, the rivers and springs become like blood, the sun scorches everyone with its fire, the throne of the beast is plunged into darkness, the great Euphrates River is dried up so that the kings of the east can march toward the west, and, finally, a great earthquake which splits the great city of Babylon into three sections. Hailstones as heavy as seventy-five pounds fall from the sky onto the people.

Finally, we are introduced to the great prostitute who represents “the great city that rules over the kings of the world.”

Tomorrow, our last day of reading for the year, we’ll read Revelation 19 – 22.

Santa Barbara Beach

The first picture and the last picture are taken at the
beach in Santa Barbara right next to the pier. There is a veterans group that started putting a cross and candle for every death in Iraq and Afghanistan .
The amazing thing is that they only do it on the weekends.

They put up this graveyard and take it down every weekend.

Guys sleep in the sand next to it and keep watch over it at night so nobody messes with it.

Every cross has the name, rank and D.O.B. And D.O.D. on it.

Very moving, very powerful??? So many young volunteers.

So many 30 to 40 year olds as well. Amazing!

Did you know that the ACLU has filed a suit to have all military cross-shaped head stones removed?

And that they filed another suit to end prayer from the military completely. They're making great progress. The Navy Chaplains can no longer mention Jesus' name in prayer thanks to the ACLU.

Keep forwarding this e-mail to others. I'm not breaking this one. I'm asking that you not break it either. 

If I get it a 1000 times, I'll forward it a 1000 times!
Please, let us pray...
Please send this on after a short prayer. Prayer for our soldiers... Please don't break it!

Prayer:
'Heavenly Father, hold our troops in Your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us.
Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in this, our time of need.
These things I humbly ask, in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour, Amen.'

GOD BLESS YOU FOR PASSING IT ON!

Revelation 6 – 11 and Progress

Revelation 6 – 11

The place is heaven and Jesus has been found worthy to open the scroll. This scroll had seven seals and various events happen as each seal is opened. Did you notice that after the third seal was broken, “a loaf of wheat bread or three loaves of barley will cost a day’s pay.” Some are saying that we are headed for such an experience in this country. There is much death and destruction as the seals are opened and we hear the voice of those martyred for the word of God shouting to the Lord and asking how long before he will judge and avenge.

When the seventh seal was broken, there was silence in heaven for about half an hour and then came the seven trumpets. The seven trumpets also announce a lot of death and destruction and terror. In fact, there are three terrors, each worse than the last. Still the people will not repent.

We then find seven thunders, but what they said must be kept secret and John is given the small open scroll to eat, much like Ezekiel eating the scroll as recorded in Ezekiel 3. We are then told about the two prophets who will have tremendous powers and who will eventually be killed, but raised up after three and one-half days.

We also find out where the Ark of the covenant is – in heaven in the Temple of God.

Tomorrow we’ll read Revelation 12 – 18.

Progress

I am making great progress on the cookbooks I’m writing. Today, I finished copying my mother’s recipes form the cookbooks my brother has. I still have a lot of work to do writing down recipes that she never wrote down.

Is it ever cold here today! Fortunately, I didn’t have to go out today, but I think I’ll head over to Bass Pro Shop tomorrow and use the gift certificate my cousin Richard got me. I may also go to the movies to see either Jack Reacher of Parental Guidance, probably Jack Reacher.

Revelation 1 – 5 and Dinner at Longhorn

Revelation 1 – 5

Here we have John again, this time sharing “a revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants the events that must soon take place.” John received this revelation from an angel and “reported everything he saw.”

At times, I have heard people express a reluctance to read Revelation, probably because of some misunderstanding about the content of the book. I think they fear what they would find if they would read it and yet, John clearly states that “God blesses the one who reads the words of this prophecy to the church, and he blesses all who listen to its message and obey what it says, for the time is near.”

John writes the letter to the seven churches which are in Asia: Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. He writes first about what is good about the churches, what is not good about them, and what they need to do. Some people think that the churches represent various stages of what is now church history and that we are now the Laodicean church.

Part of the book takes place in heaven and part on earth. The description of heaven is incredible and you can see why it has been subject to a number of different interpretations.

When John sees the Lamb of God being found worthy to open the scroll, he is jubilant. Worthy is the Lamb! This reminds me of the Gaither song of the same name which you can watch at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_DJS5XZcpS0

Tomorrow we’ll read Revelation 6 – 11.

Dinner at Longhorn Steakhouse

Tonight, we had the most wonderful dinner at Longhorn Steakhouse in honor of my nephew Chris’s THIRTIETH birthday. Every bite was delicious. Yum. Yum.

Until next time…

II John and III John

In these second and third letters John writes, he refers to himself as John, the elder. Why do you suppose that is? Was it because he outlived all of the other apostles? Did he have a son name John, making him John the elder or senior? Was it just because he was an old man at the time he wrote the letters? We may never know.
This John is the author of the Gospel of John, I John, II John, III John, and Revelation. This is the same John who wrote John 3:16 – For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.
Of course, John didn’t name these books we are studying today. They were real letters written to real people. In the case of II John, he wrote to “the chosen lady and to her children whom I love in the truth.” In III John, he wrote to “Gaius, me dear friend, whom I love in the truth.”
What do you suppose he meant by “chosen” lady? Could this have been Mary, the mother of Jesus, who was chosen by God to bear the Savior of the World?
I thought it was interesting that in both letters, John indicates he has “much more” to say to them, but doesn’t want to write it in pen ink. Instead, he planned to visit and talk about it face to face.
There are only four more days in this year and we’ll finish it out with book of Revelation. Imagine we will try to condense that important, very complicated book into four days. Yikes!
Tomorrow we’ll read Revelation 1 – 5.
I arrived safely at my brother's. The trip was uneventful except that at one point it took me 1 and 1/2 hours to travel 10 miles. A pretty good-sized truck smashed and burned, melting a good part of the pavement.
Until next time…

I John

John was known as "the disciple whom Jesus loved." Here in his first letter you can see that John also loved Jesus. The way he speaks of him at the beginning is reminiscent of the first chapter of the John's Gospel. John knew Jesus and not just the man, but Jesus the Word of Life, the Light of the World, the one who existed from the beginning, the one who is live itself.

Some people don't seem to be aware that there is a difference between light and darkness, between good and evil, but John knew. And his wonderful words about those living in the light -- "But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other and the blood of Jesus, His Son, cleanses us from all sin."

John knew the importance of confessing our sin. He knew that "if we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness."

John was a man and, as a man, he knew we all sin, "but if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father. Wow, isn't that great? Jesus talks to the Father about us and advocates for us.

Apparently, some were claiming to be Christians, i.e., living in the light, but hated their Christian brother or sister. He speaks so clearly: "anyone who hates another brother or sister is still living and walking in darkness."

What a wonderful letter.

Tomorrow, we'll read II John and III John.

Until next time…

II Peter and Jude

Do you want to know how to be more productive and useful in your knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ? Peter tells us in chapter 1, verses 5 - 7: "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 more 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."

Peter's message was urgent because the Lord had shown him that he would "soon leave this earthly life." He makes the point that he was there during Jesus' ministry and he heard God say that Jesus was his beloved Son, who brings him great joy. He warns of false teachers who "cleverly teach destructive heresies and even deny the Maker who bought them.

Peter also describes what the last days will be like: scoffers mocking the truth and following their own desires. God is not slow to fulfill his promise, but he is not willing that any should perish. The day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. We should be living holy lives because everything around us will be destroyed. Live peaceful and blameless lives. "Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Now, Jude is described as a "slave of Jesus Christ and a brother of James." He is warning those called by God the Father that ungodly people have wormed their way into the churches. Did you note that the devil and Michael, the archangel, fought over Moses' body. We must build each other up in the "most holy faith", pray in the power of the Holy Spirit and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ. "In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God's love." We must show mercy.

Tomorrow, we'll read I John.

By the way, Merry Christmas and a Most Happy New Year.

Until next time…

II Timothy

This is the second letter that we know of that Paul wrote to Timothy, his "dear son." As we said when we read Paul's first letter to Timothy, we noted that Paul has great affection for Timothy. We see this again here when Paul refers to the fact that he constantly remembers Timothy in his prayers -- both night and day. He longs to see him again and reminds Timothy of his genuine faith, the faith he shares with Timothy's grandmother Lois and his mother Eunice. We would all do well to stand on verses 6 and 7 of the first chapter: "This is why I remind you to fan into flames the spiritual gift God gave you when I laid my hands on you. For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of prayer, love, and self-discipline."

Paul also tells Timothy and us that he is not ashamed of the gospel, because he knows in whom he trusts and is certain that he is able to guard what he has entrusted to him until the day of his return.

He tells Timothy to be strong through the grace God gives him in Christ and to teach the truths to other trustworthy people who will pass it on to others. He tells him to endure suffering as a good soldier of Christ. After all, Jesus was raised from the dead -- and this is the Good News Paul is preaching.

He wants Timothy to work hard so he can present himself to God and receive God's approval and not to get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights.

He also talks about the last days and the very difficult times there will be, where people will only love themselves and their money. He then describes modern man to a T.

He speaks about how Timothy learned the Scriptures as a child and that "All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work."

Note all of the references to people Timothy and Paul both know -- such a personal letter to Timothy.

Tomorrow, we'll read II Peter and Jude.

Until next time…

Hebrews 11–13 and An Update

Hebrews 11 - 13

You probably have no idea how many times I have wanted to start a blog by describing the Scripture we were reading as "one of my favorites." Well, this time, I am going to say it. Chapter 11 is the "FAITH" chapter and starts by defining faith: "the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen,; it give us assurance about things we cannot see." The author then goes on to give example after example of people of faith and the action they took to demonstrate that faith.

We learn it is by faith that ”we understand the entire universe was formed at God's command, that what we now see did not come from anything that can be seen."

He mentions specific acts of faith on the part of Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Jacob, Moses' parents, Moses, the people of Israel, and Rahab. We learn that without faith it is impossible to please God, that those who come to Him must believe that He exists and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. He then mentions others who have stories of faith and all of the actions that people took by faith: shutting the mouths of lions, quenching the flames of fire, escaping death by the edge of the sword, becoming strong in battle and putting whole armies to flight. He also mentions those who were tortured, jeered at, and had their backs cut open with whips.

The transition from chapter eleven to chapter twelve is priceless. Using the word "Therefore," the author challenges all of us to "strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up, and to run with endurance the race God has set before us. He tells us how to do that - by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith.

And what did Jesus do that we should emulate? "Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God's throne." In other words, when you think of what Christ went through, what he suffered, what hostility he endured, you won't become weary and give up.

Did you notice that "we have an altar from which the priests in the Tabernacle have no right to eat." We can "offer through Jesus a continual sacrifice of praise to God, proclaiming our allegiance to his name. And don't forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God."

Could you believe that, at the end, he urges the "dear brothers and sisters" to pay attention to what he had written in "this brief exhortation?"

As the last verse says, "May God's grace be with you all."

Tomorrow, we'll read II Timothy.

An Update

By the way, I have been feeling much better the last couple of days, but still have a little cough.  At least, I have some of my energy back, I’m working on testing some recipes for a possible set of cookbooks. This morning, I tested my Aunt Lana’s Baking Powder Biscuits with the right number of tablespoons of shortening – they turned out much better. My Aunt Ruth’s Sugar Cookies were also very tasty, though I had to taste a couple to make sure.

Aunt Lana’s Baking Powder Biscuits

Aunt Ruth’s Sugar Cookies

Until next time…

Hebrews 7 - 10

We learn a lot about Melchizedek in Hebrews:

· He was the king of the city of Salem

· He was a priest of God Most High

· He met and blessed Abraham after a great battle against the kings

· Abraham gave him a tenth of all he captured in battle.

· Melchizedek means "king of justice"

· King of Salem means king of peace

· There is no record of his father or mother or any other ancestors -- no beginning or ending to his life

· He remains a priest forever, resembling the Son of God

· He placed a blessing upon Abraham -- the person who has the power to give blessing is greater than the one who is blessed

· Jesus is a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek

Because Jesus is a priest after the order of Melchizedek, Jesus could offer himself as the sacrifice for the people's sins. Jesus is our "High Priest who sat down in the place of honor beside the throne of the majestic God in heaven. There he ministers in the heavenly Tabernacle, the true place of worship that was built by the Lord and not by human hands."

We learn of the superiority of the new covenant as opposed to the old covenant. In the new covenant, God writes his laws in our minds and on our hearts; he will be our God and we will be his people. He says, "I will forgive their wickedness, and I will never again remember their sins."

Hebrews 9:28 says, "so also Christ died once for all time as a sacrifice to take away the sins of many people. He will come again, not to deal with our sins, but to bring salvation to all who are eagerly waiting for him." Hebrews 10:14 tells us "For by that one offering he forever made perfect those who are being made holy."

Tomorrow, we'll read Hebrews 11 - 13.

Until next time…

Hebrews 1 - 6

You probably noticed that there is no greeting or salutation at the beginning of the book of Hebrews which would tell you who wrote it. Many authors have been suggested including Paul (probably the favorite), Barnabas, Luke, Silas and on and on, but no one knows. Actually, it probably doesn't matter who wrote it; what really matters is what is in it.

After stating that in times past, God spoke through the prophets, in the final days, he has spoke through his Son. There may have been some dispute about whether Jesus was on a level with the angels, since the author goes into great detail about why the Son is "far greater than the angels, just as the name God gave him is greater than their names."

We do gain considerable insight into the role of angels: "only servants -- spirits sent to care for people who will inherit salvation."

Wasn't it great to read "So now Jesus and the ones he makes holy have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them his brothers and sisters." We read that Jesus "became flesh and blood because only as a human being could he die and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death." And Jesus didn't come to help angels, he came so "he could offer a sacrifice that would take away the sins of the people."

After showing how Jesus is greater than the angels, he then shows how Jesus is greater than Moses. Jesus is "in charge of God's entire house. And we are God's house, if we keep our courage and remain confident in our hope in Christ."

Hebrews 4:12-13 should give us all pause: "For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires. Nothing in all creation is hidden from God. Everything is naked and exposed before his eyes, and he is the one to whom we are accountable."

And who would not be encouraged by his words to "come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most."

After showing why Christ is better than the angels and better than Moses, the author then compares Jesus to the high priest. Jesus is "a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek."

Did you notice the author called his audience "spiritually dull and don't seem to listen?" He compares them to babies still needing milk when they should be mature enough for solid food.

Tomorrow, we'll read Hebrews 7 - 10.

Until next time…

I Peter

Didn't you love the way Peter talked about our "priceless inheritance?" It is "kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay."

Peter was a man who was transformed from one who denied the Lord to one who died proclaiming the Lord Jesus Christ. He was a tribute to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. It was important that God's children not slip back into their old ways of living. Instead, they were to be holy in everything they did, "just as God who chose you is holy." Remember that Peter knew Jesus as well as anyone so when he talks about "the precious blood of Christ, the sinless, spotless Lamb of God," he knows what he is talking about.

Tomorrow, we'll read Hebrews 1 - 6.

Sorry for the abbreviated lesson, but I’m still feeling pretty awful – not that I’m complaining or grumbling about it. This too shall pass.

Until next time…

Titus

In his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul talks about being encouraged by the arrival of Titus. Titus was with Paul and Barnabas when they went back to Jerusalem again. In his letter to Titus, Paul talks about him as his true son in the faith.

Titus was apparently on the island of Crete when Paul wrote to him, having been left there to complete their work and apponit elders in each town as Paul instructed him. Paul urges Titus to "promote the kind of living that reflects wholesome teaching" and to "encourage the young men to livewisely."

In this letter, as in so many of Paul's other letters, Paul speaks of that wonderful day when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed.

Titus 3:5 is one of my favorite verses: "he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit."

Tomorrow, we'll read I Peter.

Until next time…

I Timothy and Computer News

I Timothy

We've seen previously Paul's great affection for Timothy, whom he calls his "true son in the faith." From verse 3 of chapter 1, we can see that Timothy is in Ephesus and is urged to stay there by Paul so that he can "stop those whose teaching is contrary to the truth.

Paul's humility is made so clear when he says, '"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners"--and I am the worst of them all.' The fact that Paul persecuted Christians bothered him a lot and, everywhere he went, he was reminded and even accused of what he had done. He was not trusted in many places and by many Christians because of that very past.

Paul gives Timothy a number of specific instructions related to his ministry to the Ephesian church. We would do well to heed these.

Tomorrow, we'll read Titus.

Computer News

I’m still struggling to bring my new computer up to speed. I spent about 4 hours today trying to update my TomTom. I finally got it working. I’m now working on getting my Adobe Photoshop Elements and Adobe Premier Elements.

It hasn’t helped that I have been feeling sick – coughing and that all-over beaten-up feeling. I am feeling a little better, though. I actually felt alive most of the day today.

Until next time…

Philippians

Philippians is another letter from Paul and Timothy which shows how much they cared for the brothers and sisters in Philippi and vice versa. Paul starts out thanking God for them -- every time he thinks of them. I imagine they were encouraged to hear the Paul was "certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.

He speaks of the special place these folks hold in his heart and is overjoyed that the Good News is still being preached. From his comments, it is evident that Paul is writing this letter from prison. Paul tells how he is torn between wanting to live and wanting to die which is "even better." He tells them it is better for their sakes that he lives.

He urges them to be like Christ. He commends Timothy whom he was like a father to. Epaphroditus must have been quite a guy: "a true brother, a co-worker, and fellow soldier."

Were you as encouraged as I was about Paul's statement in Philippians 3:21 - He will take our mortal bodies and change them into glorious bodies like his own, using the same power with which he will bring everything under his control." It's going to happen and will I ever be glad! I can't wait to shed this corruptible body for the incorruptible.

The last chapter is a testament to how well Paul knew these folks and how much he cared for them. And then there's that oft-quoted verse: "For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength."

Tomorrow, we'll read I Timothy. Only thirteen days to go...

Until next time…

Ephesians

Ephesians is an incredible book -- well, letter. Paul spent quite a bit of time in Ephesus. While we were studying the Old Testament, we probably referenced the truths found in Ephesians more than any other New Testament book.

Do you recall how, when leaving them for the last time, “They all cried as they embraced and kissed him good-bye.”

In the few short words we have time for here, it will be difficult to condense exactly what we need to know. I'm, therefore, going to list a few of the verses that spoke to me, mostly without comment:

· Ephesians 1:4 -- Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes.

· Ephesians 1:22 - 23 -- God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church. And the church is his body; it is made full and complete by Christ, who fills all things everywhere with himself.

· Ephesians 2:4 - 5 -- But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so much that even though we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's grace that you have been save!)

· Ephesians 2:8 - 9 -- God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.

· Ephesians 3:12 -- Because of Christ and our faith in him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God's presence.

· Ephesians 4: 2 - 3 -- Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.

· Ephesians 5:1 -- Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.

· Ephesians 5:1 -- Carefully determine what pleases the Lord.

· Ephesians 5:20 -- And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

· Ephesians 6:10 - 18 -- I'm not going to quote all of this, but put on the whole armor of God. The devil is throwing fiery arrows at you. Remember verse 12: "For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities in the unseen world, against might powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places."

Tomorrow, we'll read Philippians.

Until next time…

Colossians and Philemon

I hope as you read the Epistles, you will remember that these were actually letters written by a person or persons to another person or group of persons. Nowhere is that better illustrated than in the book of Colossians. Paul and Timothy are writing to the brothers and sisters in Colosse.

They speak of Epaphras, their "beloved co-worker," through whom the folks in Colosse heard the Good News. What Paul knows about the Colossians is based on what Epaphras told him -- about their love for others, love that came as a gift from the Holy Spirit.

Paul paints one of the best pictures of Christ that you will ever read:

· The visible image of the invisible God

· Existed before anything was created

· Is supreme over all creation

· Through Christ God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth

· Made things we can see and things we cannot

· Holds all creation together

· The head of the church, which is his body

· The beginning, supreme over all who rise from the dead

· First in everything

· God in all his fullness was pleased to live in Christ

· Made peace with everything in heaven and earth by means of Christ's blood on the cross

· Reconciled us to himself through the death of Christ in his physical body

· So we are holy and blameless as we stand before him without a single fault

Paul urges the Colossians to continue to follow Christ, to "let your roots grow down into him and let your lives be built on him. Today, I watched a National Geographic special on Redwoods. Apparently there are blueberry bushes that grow way up high in the trees in soil that is on the branches. They would certainly have to be rooted in that soil to thrive and so must we.

We see what baptism is all about in Colossians 2:12 -- "For you were buried with Christ when you were baptized. And with him you were raised to new life because you trusted the might power of God, who raised Christ from the dead."

And listen to this: "He canceled the record of the charges against us and took it away by nailing it to the cross." Hallelujah!

At the end of the letter, we are reminded once more that this was a real letter to real people. Paul mentions Tychicus giving them a full report. He also mentions Onesimus, "a faithful and beloved brother," -- we'll see more about him in Philemon. Aristarchus is mentioned, as is Mark, Barnabas's cousin. We see references to Jesus (called Justus), Epaphras again, Luke (the beloved doctor), Demas, Nympha, and Archippus.

As for Onesimus, what did you learn about him in Philemon? Paul wrote the letter not only to Philemon, but also to Apphia and Archippus and the church that meets in Philemon's house. Apparently, Onesimus was a slave to Philemon, but he ran away. While away, he became a Christian and Paul is beseeching Philemon to forgive him and to welcome him as a beloved brother. "Now he will mean much more to you, both as a man and as a brother in the Lord." He urges Philemon to welcome Onesimus as he would welcome Paul.

Tomorrow, we'll read Ephesians.

Until next time…

Acts 27–28 and Almost Done

Acts 27 - 28

Today, we finish the book of Acts. In just 17 more days, we will have read the entire Bible. Has your life changed as a result of this reading? It is my contention that you would have to change even if you didn't notice the changes. After all, the Bible says God's Word will not return unto Him void.

As Luke's account draws to a close, it is apparent that he accompanied Paul on his enforced journey to Rome. Paul was in the custody of a Julius, captain of of the Imperial Regiment, who was so "very kind to Paul" he let Paul go ashore at Sidon to visit with friends "so they could provide for his needs."

On the way to Rome, there was not only a terrible storm, but Paul had a visit from the an angel of the Lord, who assured him neither Paul nor any of the others would lose their lives in the storm and that Paul would surely stand trial before Caesar. Once again Julius shows how much he cared for Paul.

After Paul is bitten by a poisonous snake but remained unharmed, and then prayed for Publius's father to be healed, all of the other sick people on the island came to be healed also.

The Christians in Rome were so exited to hear that Paul was coming that they cam to meet them at the Forum on the Appian Way. Paul was allowed his own private lodging but was still guarded by a soldier. Paul lived in Rome at his own expense for two years, preaching the gospel and teaching about the Lord.

Tomorrow, we'll read Colossians and Philemon.

Almost Done

I’m making fair progress on transferring my programs and files from my ailing laptop to my new computer. What a nightmare, though. On top of that, I’m feeling kind of sickly: swollen glands and like someone has been beating me up. I think my contention with Windows 8 (which I hate) hasn’t improve my general outlook, but I shouldn’t grumble.

I made my first Herbalife sale today. Hopefully, there will be many more fairly soon. I love the products and really look forward to helping others lose weight by using the products. After all, who wouldn’t want to eat two shakes every day and lose weight.

It’s also been a little chilly here and I’m sure that hasn’t helped me feel any better.

Until next time…

Computer Had To Be Replaced–No Blog Today

Sorry, everyone, but I’m working at recovering what I need to do my blog. Just keep reading and, hopefully, by tomorrow, I’ll be able to access my files.

I’m typing this from my new computer. It’s a bear to set up a new computer, especially when you have as much on it as I have on mine. This one has 10 Gb of RAM and a 2-Tb hard drive. I won’t be running out of space any time soon.

Problem: it has Windows 8 and I don’t like it right now. That will no doubt change with familiarity or get worse. You know how Microsoft is.

Until next time…

Acts 20:4 – 23:35

Luke talks about the people Paul has traveling with him: Sopater, Aristarchus, Secundus, Gaius, Timothy, Tychicus, Trophimus and, of course Luke himself. These guys were from all over the place. If you get a chance, use a concordance and look up these folks. It’s very interesting.

Didn’t you love the story of Eutychus, falling asleep and dropping three stories to his doom? Paul, who had been speaking at the time, didn’t take offense at his falling asleep, but went to him and declared him alive … and he was. In fact, he was unhurt. Have you ever gotten drowsy in a service when someone was speaking? I have and it’s embarrassing, but I never fell three stories. What a tale Eutychus had to tell!

From what Paul tells the Ephesian elsers, he knew he was going to jail and would suffer for the gospel. What a heartbreaking and heartwarming farewell Paul had with the Ephesians, knowing he wouldn’t see them again. He tells them to guard themselves and the people. He was with them for three years and they must have grown exceedingly fond of one another. It says, “They all cried as they embraced and kissed him good-bye.”

As Paul travels to Jerusalem, he encounters several people who urge him not to go because they know he will be bound and turned over to the Gentiles. Of course, Paul didn’t listen because he was ready to die for the gospel.

Paul is arrested and chained, but the commander lets him talk to the crowd. What an opportunity to present the gospel and who could do it better than Paul. He tells his story, gives his testimony of what Christ had done for him. He tells of being a witness when Stephen was killed and of persecuting the church. He speaks of his experience on the road to Damascus.

When the commander finds out Paul is a Roman citizen by birth, he tries to find out what all of the trouble with the Jewish high council was. Paul cleverly gets the Pharisees and Sadducees fighting with each other so they would leave him alone. When the commander finds out there are forty men ready to ambush Paul when they bring him before the high council the next day, he arranges for 270 soldiers to help Paul get to Governor Felix.

Paul is kept in prison at Herod’s headquarters.

Tomorrow we’ll read Acts 24 – 26.

Until next time…

Romans 14 – 16 and Pray If You Want To

Romans 14 – 16

Paul really goes into depth about not judging other believers here. “Who are you to condemn someone else’s servants? They are responsible to the Lord, so let him judge whether they are right or wrong… Yes,, each of us will give a personal account to God. So let’s stop condemning each other…”

Two things there should give us pause:

1) Each of us has to give an account to God – this is not so that we can be saved. We know: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes on Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” This is to give God an explanation for the way we lived.

2) “Let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up.”

I have often wondered why we are quick to watch other people and the way they live and so quick to condemn them if they don’t act like we think they should. Yet, we often don’t live up to the standard we set for others.

Paul says it all in Romans 15:7 “Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory.” When I think of my life and the mistakes I have made, I wonder how God could accept me, but He sees me through the blood of Christ. Otherwise, I would be condemned.

Paul tells the believers he is intending to visit Rome, and he does, and he is killed there. Of course, for Paul “for to me to live is Christ and to die is gain.”

Tomorrow we’ll read Acts 20:4 – 23:35

"Pray if you want to" - Andy Rooney

CBS and  Katie Couric et al must be in a panic and  rushing to reassure the White House that this is  not network policy. Folks,  this is the year that we RE-TAKE AMERICA &  CANADA  *********  Get  Ready ********* Keep  this going around the  globe. Read it  and forward every time you receive  it... We can't  give up on this issue. Andy Rooney  and  Prayer Andy  Rooney says: I don't believe in Santa  Claus, but I'm not going to sue somebody for  singing a Ho-Ho-Ho song in  December. I don't  agree with Darwin , but I didn't go out and hire  a lawyer when my high school teacher taught his  theory  of evolution.  Life, liberty or your pursuit of  happiness will not be endangered in any  way because  someone says a 30-second prayer before a  football game. So what's  the big deal? It's not  like somebody is up there reading the entire  Book of Acts. They're just talking to a God they  believe in and asking him to grant safety to the  players on the field and the fans going home  from the game. But it's a Christian  prayer, some will argue. Yes, and this is  the United States of America , and Canada ,  countries founded on Christian  principles. According  to our very own phone book, Christian churches  outnumber all others better than  200-to-1. So what  would you expect -- Somebody  chanting Hare  Krishna? If I went to a football game in  Jerusalem , I would  expect to hear a Jewish  prayer. If  I went to a soccer game  in Baghdad, I would  expect to hear a Muslim prayer. If I  went to a ping pong match in China  , I would  expect to hear someone pray to  Buddha. And I  wouldn't be offended. It  wouldn't bother me one bit. When in Rome  ..... But what about the atheists? Is  another argument. What about  them? Nobody is  asking them to be baptized.  We're not  going to pass the collection plate. Just humor  us for 30 seconds.  If that's asking too  much, bring a Walkman or a pair of ear  plugs.  Go to the bathroom.  Visit the  concession stand.  Call your lawyer! Or,  just exercise their right to leave this  country! Unfortunately, one or two will  call their lawyer. One or two  will tell thousands what they can and cannot  do.  I don't  think a short prayer at a football game is going  to shake the world's  foundations. Christians are just sick and  tired of turning the other cheek while our  courts strip us of all our  rights. Our  parents and grandparents taught us to pray  before eating, to pray before we go to  sleep. Our Bible  tells us to pray without  ceasing. Now a  handful of people and their lawyers are telling  us to cease praying. God,  help us.  And if that last sentence offends  you, well, just sue me. The silent  majority has been silent too long.  It's  time we tell that one or two who scream loud  enough to be heard that the vast majority  doesn't care what they want!   It is  time that the majority  rules!     It's time we tell them, "You don't have to pray;  you don't have to say the Pledge of Allegiance;  you don't have to believe in God or attend  services that honor  Him. That  is your right, and we will honor your  right; But  by golly, You  are no longer going to take our rights  away.    We are fighting back, and  we  WILL WIN!" God  bless us one and all...Especially those who  denounce Him,  God bless America and Canada , despite all our  faults, we are still the greatest nations of  all. God  bless our service men who Are  fighting to protect our right to pray and  worship God. Let's  make 2012 the  year the silent majority is heard and we put God  back as the foundation of our families and  institutions. And our military forces come home  from all the wars. Keep looking  up. If you agree with  this, please pass it on. If not delete  it. BUT  REMEMBER SHOULD YOU DELETE  IT, that's  one reason why this world is in the mess we're  in now. WE  JUST SIT  BACK & LET IT  HAPPEN!!

Until next time…

Romans 4 – 7, Hobby Lobby, and Prayer Request

Romans 4 – 7

The essential question of Romans 4 is in the very first verse: “What did he (Abraham) discover about being made right with God? The answer is in verse 3: “…Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith.” Paul goes on to explain that this righteousness through faith is not only for the Jews, but also for the Gentiles. Abraham’s true descendants then are those who have a right relationship with God that comes by faith.

Rejoice in the truth of Romans 5:1: “Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us” and in the truth of Romans 5:6: “When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners.”

Paul then gives a great lesson contrasting Adam, through whom sin entered the world, and Christ, through whom God’s gift of forgiveness comes.

Why do we have the law? It is so all people could see how sinful they were. And don’t you love the contrast between the wages (what we earn) of sin being death, but the free gift (we can’t earn it) of God being eternal life through Jesus?

Tomorrow, we’ll read Romans 8 – 10, but there won’t be a blog post because I am joining Esther at Disney where her Sing Live group will be singing at Epcot. We are then going to spend Monday at Disney, hopefully at the Magic Kingdom where they have a new Fantasyland.

Monday’s reading is Romans 11 – 13. We’ll take up the blog again on Tuesday, December 11, 2012.

Hobby Lobby

Once again, the United States Government has overstepped their authority. One more step toward Socialism.

A Letter from Hobby Lobby Stores CEO By David Green, the founder and CEO of Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc. When my family and I started our company 40 years ago, we were working out of a garage on a $600 bank loan, assembling miniature picture frames. Our first retail store wasn't much bigger than most people's living rooms, but we had faith that we would succeed if we lived and worked according to God's word. From there, Hobby Lobby has become one of the nation's largest arts and crafts retailers, with more than 500 locations in 41 states. Our children grew up into fine business leaders, and today we run Hobby Lobby together, as a family. We're Christians, and we run our business on Christian principles. I've always said that the first two goals of our business are (1) to run our business in harmony with God's laws, and (2) to focus on people more than money. And that's what we've tried to do. We close early so our employees can see their families at night. We keep our stores closed on Sundays, one of the week's biggest shopping days, so that our workers and their families can enjoy a day of rest. We believe that it is by God's grace that Hobby Lobby has endured, and he has blessed us and our employees. We've not only added jobs in a weak economy, we've raised wages for the past four years in a row. Our full-time employees start at 80% above minimum wage. But now, our government threatens to change all of that. A new government health care mandate says that our family business MUST provide what I believe are abortion-causing drugs as part of our health insurance. Being Christians, we don't pay for drugs that might cause abortions, which means that we don't cover emergency contraception, the morning-after pill or the week-after pill. We believe doing so might end a life after the moment of conception, something that is contrary to our most important beliefs. It goes against the Biblical principles on which we have run this company since day one. If we refuse to comply, we could face $1.3 million PER DAY in government fines. Our government threatens to fine job creators in a bad economy. Our government threatens to fine a company that's raised wages four years running. Our government threatens to fine a family for running its business according to its beliefs. It's not right. I know people will say we ought to follow the rules; that it's the same for everybody. But that's not true. The government has exempted thousands of companies from this mandate, for reasons of convenience or cost. But it won't exempt them for reasons of religious belief. So, Hobby Lobby and my family are forced to make a choice. With great reluctance, we filed a lawsuit today, represented by the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, asking a federal court to stop this mandate before it hurts our business. We don't like to go running into court, but we no longer have a choice. We believe people are more important than the bottom line and that honoring God is more important than turning a profit. My family has lived the American dream. We want to continue growing our company and providing great jobs for thousands of employees, but the government is going to make that much more difficult. The government is forcing us to choose between following our faith and following the law. I say that's a choice no American and no American business should have to make. The government cannot force you to follow laws that go against your fundamental religious belief. They have exempted thousands of companies but will not except Christian organizations including the Catholic church. Since you will not see this covered in any of the liberal media, pass this on to all your contacts. Sincerely, David Green, CEO and Founder of Hobby Lobby Stores, Inc.

Prayer Request

Someone sent this prayer request:

Greetings
All,

I have a prayer request. There's a great lady I've known since I was a 
child. She's very sick. Some experts say she is terminal. She has survived 
many difficulties, has given her life to helping others, and has gotten little respect or help in return.


On top of that, she's being abused by those to whom she has given everything. It breaks my heart. Seems there's nothing I can do alone. But maybe, if we join in and lift her up together, God will heal her.

She's well over 200 years old, but way too young to die. 

Her name is " America" 


...and I love her. Will you please help me pray for her?

Thank You,

Bill Lusk

PLEASE KEEP THIS PRAYER REQUEST 

GOING.......................................

Until next time…

Acts 20:1-3 and Romans 1 – 3 and My Car

Acts 20:1-3 and Romans 1 – 3

A lot of people think the New Testament was written in the order printed, while in reality, it was printed in the order it is mostly for the sake of the printing process. Today we see Paul leaving Ephesus, then staying in Greece for three months. He was intending to sail back to Syria but decided to return to Macedonia when he heard about a plot against his life.

In Romans 1 – 3, Paul talks about the Good News and how he was sent to preach this Good News. Remember, Paul had not yet been to Rome when he wrote this letter. He explains the Good News about God’s Son and how he was shown to be God’s Son by being raised from the dead.

Paul expresses his desire to come visit those believers in Rome so he can help them grow strong in the Lord and so he can preach the Good News there. A verse many of us have memorized expresses Paul’s feelings about preaching the Good News: “For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes – the Jew first and also the Gentile.” Paul then spends a lot of time and words showing the Romans that not only the Jews, but the Gentiles can be saved.

Those who “suppress the truth about God” know the truth. Never doubt this. “For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God.” Isn’t it neat that through something invisible – God’s qualities, people can see God and know Him.

He points out that it’s a choice – they refuse to worship God. There is a very real result to doing this: God gives them over or abandons them to do whatever they want. This is not a good thing. He speaks of God’s justice requiring that those who do what they do, deserve to die.

He also goes on to point out that all of us are sinners so we shouldn’t be judging others. That’s God’s bailiwick. The Jews think they have a special relationship because God gave them the law, but what is the point of having the law if you don’t obey it? He quotes the Old Testament in chapter 3: No one is righteous—not even one” and states emphatically that “no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands.” “People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood.

Tomorrow, we’ll read Romans 4 – 7.

My Car

Today, I finally got my “new” car home from the Ford garage, complete with new brakes front and rear, a new exhaust system, a new O2 sensor, and a new driver’s side seat belt. It runs great and I’m hoping to be able to drive it for a couple of years at least. I still have to get a Sirius radio for it since my other one went with the pickup truck.

Until next time…

II Corinthians 10 – 13 and Oklahoma!

II Corinthians 10 – 13

I think I was most struck by Paul’s statement in II Corinthians 10:18 – “When people commend themselves, it doesn’t count for much. The important thing is for the Lord to commend them.”

We see Paul’s heart for the people in Corinth and how he was jealous for them “with the jealousy of God himself.” He fears that their devotion to Christ will be corrupted.

Did you see that Paul had been given THIRTY-NINE lashes five different times by the Jewish leaders? He was beaten three times with rods and stoned once. He was shipwrecked three times and spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea. He goes on about being hungry and thirsty and not having enough clothing to keep him warm. On top of that, he carries a daily burden of concern for all the churches. He also spoke of being lowered in a basket to excape the governor of Damascus.

Were all of these experiences to be boasted about? No, for Paul says he will only boast about his weaknesses and mentions the thorn in his flesh, “a messenger from Satan to torment me and keep me from becoming proud.”

Although he asked the Lord to take away this thorn three times, the Lord told him, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness…For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

He tells them he’ll be coming to see them again and, in the meantime, to examine themselves to see if their faith is genuine, to test themselves. And, what a blessing he pronounces on them: “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”

Tomorrow, we’ll read Acts 20:1-3 and Romans 1 – 3 – yep, three verses and then three chapters.

OKLAHOMA!
Oklahoma is the only state that Obama did not win even one county in the last election...
While everyone is focusing on Arizona’s new law, look whatOklahoma has been doing!!!!

An update from Oklahoma:
Oklahoma law passed, 37 to 9 an amendment to place the Ten Commandments on the front entrance to the state capitol. The feds in D.C., along with the ACLU, said it would be a mistake. Hey this is a conservative state, based on Christian values...! HB 1330
Guess what.......... Oklahoma did it anyway.

Oklahoma recently passed a law in the state to incarcerate all illegal immigrants, and ship them back to where they came from unless they want to get a green card and become an American citizen. They all scattered. HB 1804. This was against the advice of the Federal Government, and the ACLU, they said it would be a mistake.
Guess what.......... Oklahoma did it anyway.

Recently we passed a law to include DNA samples from any and all illegal's to the Oklahoma database, for criminal investigative purposes. Pelosi said it was unconstitutional SB 1102
Guess what......... Oklahoma did it anyway.


Several weeks ago, we passed a law, declaring Oklahomaas a Sovereign state, not under the Federal Government directives. Joining Texas, Montana and Utah as the only states to do so.
More states are likely to follow: Louisiana, Alabama,Georgia, Carolina's, Tennessee, Kentucky, Missouri,Arkansas, West Virginia, Mississippi and Florida. Save your confederate money, it appears the South is about to rise up once again. HJR 1003
The federal Government has made bold steps to take away our guns. Oklahoma, a week ago, passed a law confirming people in this state have the right to bear arms and transport them in their vehicles. I'm sure that was a setback for the criminals The Liberals didn't like it -- But....
Guess what........... Oklahoma did it anyway.


Just this month, the state has voted and passed a law that ALL drivers’ license exams will be printed in English, and only English, and no other language. They have been called racist for doing this, but the fact is that ALL of the road signs are in English only. If you want to drive in Oklahoma, you must read and write English. Really simple.
By the way, the Liberals don't like any of this either
Guess what...who cares... Oklahoma is doing it anyway.


If you like it, pass it on, if you don't then delete it...Thanks

Until next time…

II Corinthians 5 – 9

If you weren’t excited beyond measure after reading the first paragraph of II Corinthians 5, I despair for you. While it may be a bit depressing that “this earthly tent we live in is taken down (that is, when we die…), the next words are so encouraging: “we will have a house in heaven, an eternal (as opposed to earthly) body made for us by God himself and not by human hands.” He continues: “God himself has prepared us for this, and as a guarantee he has given us his Holy Spirit.”

What is the number one thing most people fear? Probably, death, but we do not have to fear this if we have trusted Christ. He paid our price. I love the way Paul puts it: “This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ.”

What Paul endured for the gospel, we will, hopefully, never experience. But he wasn’t angry or bitter; he rejoiced in all things as we are supposed to do.

Paul also makes a great case why we should always be generous. After all, we will be enriched in every way.

Tomorrow, we’ll read II Corinthians 10 – 13.

Until next time…

II Corinthians 1 – 4

Today it has been ten years since my husband Mark passed away. I can’t tell you how comforted I am whenever I I read the last two chapters of I Corinthians. Paul speaks of God as the source of all comfort in the first chapter of his second letter to Corinth, how he comforts us in all our troubles so we can comforts others. And because God comforts us, we can comfort others.

Did you notice that Paul talks about how being crushed and overwhelmed beyond his ability to endure caused him to rely only on God, who raises the dead.

The resurrection of Jesus empowered the early church as it should empower us. When things look their darkest, remember that God resurrected Jesus from the dead. Place your confidence in God and he will continue to rescue you as he rescued Paul.

Paul also knew the power of prayer.

Tomorrow, we’ll read II Corinthians 5 – 9.

Until next time…

I Corinthians 15 – 16

In today’s reading, Paul defines “what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, juast as the Scriptures daid. He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles. Last of all, as though I had been born at the wrong time, I also saw him.”

Paul then goes on to talk about the resurrection of the dead. He describes how our bodies that are buried in brokenness will be raised in glory. Don’t you look forward to that day when we will all be transformed “in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown.”

We can be comforted that “Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?”

Tomorrow, we’ll read II Corinthians 1 – 4.

Until next time…

I Corinthians 12 – 14

Can you believe we only have 29 more days and we will have read the Bible all the way through in just a year?

What do we learn about spiritual gifts from this lesson:

· There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but the same Spirit is the source.

· There are different kinds of service, but we all serve the same Lord.

· Each one of us is given a spiritual gift so we can help each other.

· The Holy Spirit decides which gift each person should have

· All of us together are Christ’s body and each of us is a part of it.

· We should earnestly desire the most helpful gifts.

· Three things last forever: faith, hope, and love and the greatest of these is love – Let love be your highest goal.

Paul speaks quite a bit about having orderly meetings: “But be sure that everything is done properly and in order.”

Tomorrow, we’ll read I Corinthians 15 – 16.

Until next time…

I Corinthians 9 – 11

Sorry I didn’t publish this yesterday, but it’s still not light out so I’m convincing myself it’s still yesterday.

I Corinthians 9 – 11

Paul sure uses a lot of athletic analogies in our reading today. He talks about running to win and shadowboxing and disciplining his body like an athlete, “training it to do what it should.”

Did you notice that he likened the Israelites crossing the Red Sea to being baptized as followers of Moses? He also spoke of them eating spiritual food and drinking spiritual water from the spiritual rock, which was Christ. From this, he says, we should be warned not to crave evil things as they did.

Did you notice Paul’s admonition against grumbling? If you live in a spirit of thankfulness for all of God’s blessings, how can you grumble? And I love the statement: “And God is faithful.” Isn’t that the truth? “He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure.”

In the eleventh chapter, Paul says, “…The head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God… And man was not made for woman, but woman was made for man.” He then goes on to talk about a woman wearing a covering on her head “to show she is under authority.” He also says “For although the first woman came from man, every other man was born from a woman, and everything comes from God.” Is this simply a discussion of cultural issues? In view of what Paul says about every other man being born from a woman, it seems to me women are equal with men.

How most of us celebrating the Lord’s Supper is laid out here, but apparently some people were abusing the meaning of it. What a shame!

Tomorrow, we’ll read I Corinthians 12 – 14.

Until next time (or later today if you want to look at it that way)…