Matteus 28 : 16 - 20. Vs. 18: “Aan My is alle mag gegee in die hemel en op die aarde. Waarom is jy bang? Waarom twyfel jy oor die toekoms? Jy behoort immers aan die H e r e J e s u s wat hierdie wonderlike versekering vandag aan jou gee. Jy hoef nie bang te wees vir die onsekerheid van die wêreld, die onrus van die politiek, die twyfel in die ekonomie of enige ander onsekerheid op jou pad nie. J e s u s C h r is t u s deel jou lewe omdat Hy jou gekies het en jy Hom aangeneem het. Op ‘n besondere manier is Hy met jou lewe ineengestrengel. Hy gee jou ook die versekering dat “niemand” jou uit Sy hand sal ruk nie. Omdat Hy regeer en deel van jou is, is jou lewe veilig, want dit word deur Homself bewaar. Gaan uit en leef waarlik. Die Een wat oor alle mag in hierdie wêreld beskik, is deel van jou en jy van Hom op hierdie pad. GEBED. Matthew 7:11
If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him! - Parents will just about do anything for their children. - Yet your Heavenly Father is able to do much more. - He has good things in store for you. - Take a moment to bring your requests to Him right now. PRAYER: Lord, You are my Heavenly Father. You know my needs and You are able to supply the things that I am trusting You for. Amen. If we say we have no sin, we are fooling ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 1 John 1:8
We do ourselves no favors in justifying our deeds or glossing over our sins. Some time ago my daughter Andrea got splinter in her finger. I took her to the restroom and set out some tweezers, ointment, and a Band-Aid. She didn't like what she saw. "I just want the Band-Aid, Daddy." Sometimes we are just like Andrea. We come to Christ with our sin, but all we want is a covering. We want to skip the treatment. We want to hide our sin. And one wonders if God, even in his great mercy, will heal what we conceal. How can God heal what we deny? How can God touch what we cover up? A Gentle Thunder (Max Lucado) The following e-mail reveals that when we are faithful to proclaim truth and what it really means to be a Christian, people will listen, open God's Word, be convicted, and come to a place of godly sorrow that produces repentance unto salvation.
Dear Mr. Howse, I took your worldview test a few years ago and ranked as a secular humanist worldview thinker. At the time, I got mad at it and your organization. I took the test again just a few weeks ago and ranked as a Biblical worldview thinker. . I was raised by a Lutheran father and non-denominational Christian mother. I'd always been a believer in God's existence and salvation in Christ. However, I realize now that I never really understood it during all of those years. Even though I accepted the Bible as truth, looking back I realize how much I twisted meaning to find what I wanted to see instead of what was there. This "liberal theology" is due I believe, to the media and societal structure in which we live. I have seen many others fall victim to it, as well as false doctrines such as theistic evolutionism. Thankfully, those misinterpretations are in my past, and I now stand with the real truth in hand. Sincerely, Nick Remember, your faithfulness to proclaim truth may very well assist someone in passing the true/false converts test once and for all. It is said that animals have a sixth sense we humans do not possess. Have you ever watched them just prior to a storm coming your way? Watch the birds, for example. They act differently, don't they? We have an old cat that stays outside in the summer and we can tell by watching him if a storm is headed our way. If my wife & I are leaving for a few days, he knows. Our neighbor has a large dog that stays outside. They too can easily tell if a storm is coming, because the dog will whine at the door until they let him in the house. A storm, of sorts, appears to be on the horizon for this earth. Something is about to happen. Many go about their merry way as if nothing is going to happen or things are going to get better, but for those of us who live in the real world, there is an uneasiness that can't be explained. The middle-east is a powder keg, waiting to go off at any time. The Muslim Brotherhood continues to envelop its veil of darkness over falling regimes, replacing dictators with something even worse. Iran is straining at the leash to "wipe Israel off the map." Israel stands guard, hoping they don't wait too long to deter Iran's immediate desire. Like a wolf after its prey, Russia inches ever closer to Israel's backyard, longing for their newly discovered black gold. China wistfully looks in the same direction sniffing the wind. The worldwide economy is like a balloon about to burst. Economists are scratching their heads wondering why the United States has not already imploded, and certain that it is only a matter of time until it does. Even though Obama says "the private sector is doing fine," the common man knows better. Heck, a five year old knows it's a lie. Unemployment keeps climbing while the wealthy sip champagne, having not a clue of what it means to actually work for a living. Not knowing, or caring, how it feels to not be able to provide for one's family because they can't find a job. While Nero plays his fiddle, Rome burns. Depravity is so wide spread it makes one dizzy to behold the effect it is having upon the populace. Homosexuality is having an unbelievable success rate of acceptance, even by church groups. Half the population is living together in sin without the benefit of marriage. Violent, sadistic murders are increasing at an alarming speed. Lying and theft are commonplace. From Europe, to England, to the United States, where some of the most loyal of God's followers preached and wrote in years gone by, God has been cleaned and sanitized from the public mind. He has been booted out of the schools, the public forum, and even the military. The name of Jesus, the Son of God, has been mocked, vilified, cursed and spat upon, and now His followers, in a once Christian country, are starting to feel the heat. In this country, there are no longer any statesmen. We only have politicians, men and women who couldn't tell the truth if their lives depended upon it. Sadly, there remain far too many who will believe a lie, and so we continue to die as a country. The United States of America, the greatest country once, is dying, primarily because of greed. England once reigned upon the earth in such a way that the sun never set upon her empire, but no more. We now follow her lead. Capitalizing upon people's plight, wolves have taken over the pulpits of many churches, preaching a get rich-quick scheme called the prosperity gospel, falsely using the Holy Word of God to fleece the poor and feed their rich appetites. Their faces are often seen on television and heard on the radio. They post their poison on the Internet and draw in unsuspecting dupes, while the bookstores sell their works, making them even richer. Few seem to have a conscience anymore, and those who do are worried at what they are seeing, worried for the future of their children and grandchildren, because they can see no future for them. Could this be the year of our Lord's return? I'm speaking as a Christian, not as a Tribulation saint. Therefore, I am referring to the removal of the Church via an event known as the Rapture. Possibly, the most important Presidential election this country has ever faced will be held this year on November 6th. The most frightening aspect of this election is that the Pied Piper is still playing his flute, and many still follow him while dancing to his tune. Our current occupier of the White House rivals any of the narcissistic leaders Rome ever had. This man is so in love with himself, he probably bows before a full-length mirror in between those times he bows before our enemies. He is not the Antichrist, but if there ever were a small example of what the Antichrist will be like and how people will fall for his lies, this is clearly a sample of things to come. Could God be allowing us to see a foretaste of the future in order to warn us? Could be, and the reality of this warning could be closer than we think. Before I frighten off those who think I may be getting dangerously close to setting a date for the Rapture by insinuating that it may be this year, take a deep breath and calm down. No one is privy to that information but God. However, God has provided signs for us to read, signs for the Tribulation that follows the Rapture of the Church. Just as Jesus expected Israel to read the signs of His first coming, He expects us to read the signs of His return, the second coming. There are two events that must take place before He returns, the Rapture and the Tribulation, in that order. All signs point to the Tribulation. The greatest sign that the Tribulation has begun will be the Rapture. There are no signs for the Rapture. It will happen without warning, in the blink of an eye. There is nothing, absolutely nothing, that needs to be done to trigger the Rapture, except one thing; i.e. God the Father will give the nod to the Son to go for His Bride. Could this be the year? Absolutely, but someone says "No, maybe next year or the following year, or ..." I agree wholeheartedly, but it could' be this year. The point is, are you ready? Whether humans do or do not have a sixth sense as do animals, something is clearly working on the psyche of many of us. It is being felt by too many people to be ignored. Something major is about to happen. Even though the majority may not realize it or care, thousands can sense an impending doom, a storm on the horizon. It's easy to tell when a bad storm is on the way. The temperature changes. A slight breeze starts to rustle among the leaves of the trees. The clouds begin to darken as they roll toward us overhead. In the distance, a sound of thunder, then lightening is seen far off. A drizzle turns into a downpour. The storm is here. The thunder is deafening. The lightening is dangerous. Hopefully, we have already taken shelter. While dark clouds of judgment begin to form over the earth, the storm is taking shape. The sound of thunder is faintly heard in the distance and gets louder as it draws closer and closer. All the signs of an approaching storm are here. Have you taken shelter? "1 This message concerning Nineveh came as a vision to Nahum, who lived in Elkosh. The Lord's Anger against Nineveh 2 The Lord is a jealous God, filled with vengeance and rage. He takes revenge on all who oppose him and continues to rage against his enemies! 3 The Lord is slow to get angry, but his power is great, and he never lets the guilty go unpunished. He displays his power in the whirlwind and the storm. The billowing clouds are the dust beneath his feet. 4 At his command the oceans dry up, and the rivers disappear. The lush pastures of Bashan and Carmel fade, and the green forests of Lebanon wither. 5 In his presence the mountains quake, and the hills melt away; the earth trembles and its people are destroyed. 6 Who can stand before his fierce anger? Who can survive his burning fury? His rage blazes forth like fire, and the mountains crumble to dust in his presence. 7 The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him. 8 But he will sweep away his enemies in an overwhelming flood. He will pursue his foes into the darkness of night. 9 Why are you scheming against the Lord? He will destroy you with one blow; he won't need to strike twice! 10 His enemies, tangled like thorn bushes and staggering like drunks, will be burned up like dry stubble in a field. 11 Who is this wicked counselor of yours who plots evil against the Lord? 12 This is what the Lord says: "Though the Assyrians have many allies, they will be destroyed and disappear. O my people, I have punished you before, but I will not punish you again. 13 Now I will break the yoke of bondage from your neck and tear off the chains of Assyrian oppression." 14 And this is what the Lord says concerning the Assyrians in Nineveh: "You will have no more children to carry on your name. I will destroy all the idols in the temples of your gods. I am preparing a grave for you because you are despicable!" 15 Look! A messenger is coming over the mountains with good news! He is bringing a message of peace. Celebrate your festivals, O people of Judah, and fulfill all your vows, for your wicked enemies will never invade your land again. They will be completely destroyed!" (Nahum 1 NLT) Even though this passage is about the Assyrian oppression upon Judah, the facts remain the same. God is ready to restore His people Israel back to fellowship with Him. Much needs to happen first in the upcoming seven years due Israel and God's dealing with the Gentiles, but if the Tribulation could be compared to a seven round boxing match, the bell for round one could sound at any time. Could it happen this year? Of course it can, but whether it does or not, are you ready? Grant Phillips Maranatha!(Lord Come Quickly) "On Christ the Solid Rock I Stand, All other ground is sinking sand." "Let Us make the short time we have left count for all eternity!" As adults life has an impact on us it makes us hard and in many cases childish. God however wants us to be childlike in our trust and faith. Mark 10: 15 Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kindom of God like a litte child [does] positively shall not enter it at all.
Lord soften our hearts enfold us with your kindness ennrich us with your faith and above all make us your children in Jesus Name Amen Even if I encounter dark afflictions,almighty Father, I will not fear, since You are with me. Always make me remember that You are greater and more powerful than any problem I might face. 1 John 4:4 I praiseYou in the Name Of Jesus Christ Amen Take the promises of Proverbs 3
Jesus said, "Come follow me." Mat 4:19
God is an inviting God. He invited Mary to birth his Son, the disciples to fish for men, the adulteress woman to start over, and Thomas to touch his wounds. God is the King who prepares the palace, sets the table, and invites his subjects to come in. In fact, it seems his favorite word is come. "Come, let us talk about these things. Though your sins are like scarlet, they can be as white as snow." "All you who are thirsty, come and drink." "Come to me all, all of you who are tired and have heavy loads, and I will give you rest." … God is a God who invites. God is a God who calls. And the Angels Were Silent (Max Lucado) Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. —Colossians 3:2 The Masters Tournament is one of the most prestigious in professional golf. In 2009, Kenny Perry placed second after leading during the final round. Writing inThe New York Times, Bill Pennington described Perry as “disappointed but not despondent” after the loss. “I’ll look back on it occasionally and wonder what I might have done differently, but I won’t dwell on it,” Perry said. “If this is the worst thing that happens in my life, I’ve got it pretty good. I won’t let it dog me. There are so many other things in life that matter more . . . . I’ll go home tonight with my family and we’ll have fun.” The ability to look beyond our disappointments is essential for followers of Christ. Our focus determines how we face the victories and defeats in life. “If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth” (Col. 3:1-2). This way of thinking looks to Christ, rather than our achievements, for significance and validation. We seek Him, not success. When we strive for excellence and give our best effort, losing hurts, but it doesn’t have to harm us. The key is where we set our minds and hearts. Lord, thank You that You are the one who measures how we’ve done in life and determines whether we’ve been successful. Help us to keep that focus even in disappointments. When Christ is the center of your focus, everything else comes into proper perspective. We must encourage our Brothers and Sisters when they are down and remind one another that God is near, that our trials will soon fade; "Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today!" (Hebrews 3:13). But as we encourage, we must do so from a position of Biblical truth. We must continually direct each other toward Christ and the life He calls us to live. It is never true encouragement to simply lend our agreement and "comfort" to a complaining or selfish attitude. This actually keeps someone down and threatens to pull us down in the process. We began this journey through faith in the sacrifice of Jesus; "whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16). Our Salvation, our eternal life, even our very existence, is based on a personal belief that Jesus died for the forgiveness of our sins so we could live with Him for all eternity. The faith of our parents cannot save us, nor can the doctrine of our church - WE must believe. Jesus endured ridicule and humiliation from His accusers, and overwhelming pain on the cross, simply because He dearly loved us (Oh Lord, help me to better understand this love!). The joy of seeing our restored relationship with the Father allowed Him to persevere through unbelievable hardship. His sacrifice brought us Salvation - His perseverance should bring us strength and a renewed hope. Hebrews 12:3 "Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." There are going to be days when the burden seems extra heavy - days when the attacks come fast and furious and feel like they will never end. It may bring temporary relief for someone to agree and confirm the difficulty of our situation, but the only way to truly ease the load is to focus our heart back to Christ and pray for His strength; "May the Lord direct your hearts into God's love and Christ's perseverance" (2 Thessalonians 3:5). We must persevere... because He first persevered for us! There is definitely a place within the Body for compassion and the sharing of one another's sorrows; but when our burdens become seemingly unbearable, we must also encourage one another to simply put one foot in front of the other and boldly continue down His path. His grace and His strength WILL be sufficient! We will not lose heart if we focus on His love. We will persevere and not grow weary if we keep our eyes fixed on Jesus and consider Him who endured. Have a Christ Centered Day! Steve Troxel |
Ana & Andre Schoonbee God uses us to motivate and encourage the body. Authors
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