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Brothers and Sisters,

We've done this before, and I think it was very positive. In fact, it was all positive and uplifting, so I'd like to do it again. I'd like to encourage everyone to participate and keep in mind that we can all use some encouragement from God's Word.
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I want to share the below portions of Scripture because they contain some of our highest priorities for God. I read them this morning as a reminder for myself, and I hope that all Christians spend quality time with God and His Word numerous times every day. Let us consider what is a reasonable service to Him.

Romans 3:10-31   10  as it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one;  11  There is none that understandeth, There is none that seeketh after God;  12  They have all turned aside, they are together become unprofitable; There is none that doeth good, no, not, so much as one:  13  Their throat is an open sepulchre; With their tongues they have used deceit: The poison of asps is under their lips:  14  Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness:  15  Their feet are swift to shed blood;  16  Destruction and misery are in their ways;  17  And the way of peace have they not known:  18  There is no fear of God before their eyes.  19  Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it speaketh to them that are under the law; that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may be brought under the judgment of God:  20  because by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified in his sight; for through the law cometh the knowledge of sin.  21  But now apart from the law a righteousness of God hath been manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;  22  even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ unto all them that believe; for there is no distinction;  23  for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God;  24  being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:  25  whom God set forth to be a propitiation, through faith, in his blood, to show his righteousness because of the passing over of the sins done aforetime, in the forbearance of God;  26  for the showing, I say, of his righteousness at this present season: that he might himself be just, and the justifier of him that hath faith in Jesus.  27  Where then is the glorying? It is excluded. By what manner of law? of works? Nay: but by a law of faith.  28  We reckon therefore that a man is justified by faith apart from the works of the law.  29  Or is God the God of Jews only? is he not the God of Gentiles also? Yea, of Gentiles also:  30  if so be that God is one, and he shall justify the circumcision by faith, and the uncircumcision through faith.  31  Do we then make the law of none effect through faith? God forbid: nay, we establish the law.

Ephesians 2:1-10   1  And you did he make alive, when ye were dead through your trespasses and sins,  2  wherein ye once walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the powers of the air, of the spirit that now worketh in the sons of disobedience;  3  among whom we also all once lived in the lust of our flesh, doing the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, even as the rest: -  4  but God, being rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,  5  even when we were dead through our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ (by grace have ye been saved),  6  and raised us up with him, and made us to sit with him in the heavenly places, in Christ Jesus:  7  that in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus:  8  for by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;  9  not of works, that no man should glory.  10  For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God afore prepared that we should walk in them.

Ephesians 3:8-21   8  Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, was this grace given, to preach unto the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;  9  and to make all men see what is the dispensation of the mystery which for ages hath been hid in God who created all things;  10  to the intent that now unto the principalities and the powers in the heavenly places might be made known through the church the manifold wisdom of God,  11  according to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:  12  in whom we have boldness and access in confidence through our faith in him.  13  Wherefore I ask that ye may not faint at my tribulations for you, which are your glory.  14  For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father,  15  from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named,  16  that he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, that ye may be strengthened with power through his Spirit in the inward man;  17  that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; to the end that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,  18  may be strong to apprehend with all the saints what is the breadth and length and height and depth,  19  and to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that ye may be filled unto all the fulness of God.  20  Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,  21  unto him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus unto all generations for ever and ever. Amen.

Love In Christ,
Tom

I think that all Christians need to put things in the proper perspective of importance in our lives. We eat when we get hungry and drink when we get thirsty, but this is for our physical body that we will only be using for a short period of time. God's Word rightly compares our current physical body to a "tent" because of its temporary nature. Now, let's consider the importance of feeding our spirit and make a comparison between food for our physical body and food for our spirit.

Hebrews 5:12-14 For when by reason of the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need again that some one teach you the rudiments of the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of solid food. 13 For every one that partaketh of milk is without experience of the word of righteousness; for he is a babe. 14 But solid food is for fullgrown men, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern good and evil.


It should be obvious that we pay more attention to spiritual food than food for our physical bodies. One is temporary and the other is eternal. If we can make time to feed our physical bodies, we can make more time to feed our spirits. If priorities must be set, spiritual food should come first. This is how we become strong in Christ.

Love In Christ,
Tom

Hello Everyone,

I'd like to share a portion of Scripture that I'm reading right now:

1 Corinthians 9:23-25  And I do all things for the gospel's sake, that I may be a joint partaker thereof.  24  Know ye not that they that run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? Even so run; that ye may attain.  25  And every man that striveth in the games exerciseth self-control in all things. Now they do it to receive a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.


This portion of Scripture speaks volumes and is beautiful for Christians to think about. Anything that the world can give is is corruptible, but God gives us priceless things that are eternal. We do good works as a mater of appreciation from hearts of love for Jesus Christ. This is the only way that our works will be recognized as good by God. The rewards that God will give for our good works are over and above Salvation. I love these descriptions from the Apostle Paul about running a race as a Christian for the prize. Paul is talking about more than Salvation, rather of a dedicated and yielded Christian life for Christ. May God give us all the strength and guidance to run our race and finish our course. May God get all of the Glory.

Love In Christ,
Tom

We live in difficult and evil times that are growing worse by the day now. As Christians, we all need to learn how to look at everything through the Perfect Lens of God's Word. The Bible tells us how things will be in the last days of this Age of Grace, and the Bible always states the Ultimate Truth. If we want to know what the future for the world holds, we can read all about it in God's Word. These are depressing times for many Christians because we are watching the devil beginning to roam free. We can try, but we can't stop the devil. All we can do is pray and try to yield to God's Will for us. The time is probably soon for the Tribulation Period, and the start of the Tribulation Period means that the Second Coming of Christ is only 7 years later. That 7 years will be great horror and only Christ will be able to restore peace. He will come in Great and Holy Wrath to crush evil, and He will make a peace like the world has never known. As Christians, we have daily battles to fight until Christ comes to take us home. The following portion of Scripture should help prepare us for the fight ahead.

Ephesians 6:11-20  Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  12  For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world-rulers of this darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.  13  Wherefore take up the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and, having done all, to stand.  14  Stand therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness,  15  and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace;  16  withal taking up the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the evil one.  17  And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:  18  with all prayer and supplication praying at all seasons in the Spirit, and watching thereunto in all perseverance and supplication for all the saints,  19  and on my behalf, that utterance may be given unto me in opening my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel,  20  for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Love In Christ,
Tom

1 Corinthians 3:11-15  For other foundation can no man lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ.  12  But if any man buildeth on the foundation gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay, stubble;  13  each man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it is revealed in fire; and the fire itself shall prove each man's work of what sort it is.  14  If any man's work shall abide which he built thereon, he shall receive a reward.  15  If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as through fire.

The above is a beautiful portion of Scripture that answers a lot of confusion. There are all kinds of losses that Christians can suffer, but Salvation isn't one of them. There are other portions of Scripture that are confused as pertaining to Salvation - not rewards. Rewards are over and above Salvation and part of the Bema Seat Judgment of God for the works of a Christian. So, the above portion of Scripture really answers a lot of questions. Christians aren't judged at the Great White Throne Judgment because there is No Condemnation in Christ, and new Christians are "quickened" (translated) into the Body of Christ at the moment of Salvation. This moment of Salvation is the high point in this short life because this new Christian has already been given a Promise From God of Eternal Life right then - at that moment. And more, the Holy Spirit of God resides in the heart of each believer - sealing him or her as an Eternal Possession of Jesus Christ. It's a wonderful and exciting experience to learn what it means to belong to Christ. One of the first things to learn is that He will love us always and never leave or forsake us. Our Lord keeps all of His Promises and never lies, so there is no comparison between Jesus Christ and men. The same is true for God the Father and God the Holy Spirit. Yes, there are three, but the three are One. This is another wonderful thing to learn as we grow in strength. We are never alone again.

Another area of confusion that's addressed is works. Most Christians should know that there's no way for a person to earn or deserve Salvation. It must be a gift from God because no person will ever be worthy of Salvation. Remember - our righteousness is as filthy rags, but our Lord and Saviour is Holy and Righteous. Our faith in Jesus Christ results in us being seen in and through Jesus Christ. Righteousness is imputed to us from Jesus Christ, and that's the only way men can obtain righteousness. Our good works for the Lord must simply be out of hearts of appreciation for what Jesus Christ has already done for us on the Cross. The work of Salvation was completed perfectly by Christ, and there is nothing we can add to His Completed and Perfect Work. The important thing to learn is that Jesus Christ is the only way to Salvation. He made the perfect Sacrifice on the Cross, and He died in our place - for our sins. There is forgiveness Only In Christ, and He makes us fit for our Promised Heavenly Inheritance.

Love In Christ,
Tom

2 Timothy 3:12-17 Yea, and all that would live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 13 But evil men and impostors shall wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14 But abide thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them. 15 And that from a babe thou hast known the sacred writings which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 Every scripture inspired of God is also profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for instruction which is in righteousness. 17 That the man of God may be complete, furnished completely unto every good work.


Yes, I think that we are living in a time like the above Scripture mentions. As Christians, these are difficult times, and the times are going to get worse as the Tribulation Period draws near. Paul is explaining things to young Timothy and trying to help him understand what is yet to come. The advice that Paul gives young Timothy is wonderful, advice that we can and should use for ourselves today. This is not a time for Christians to feel sorry for themselves and lay down - just the opposite. We are still here because God has a purpose for us being here. Our part is to pray and ask God to reveal His Will for us - and do it.

Love In Christ,
Tom

Psalms 1:1-6 ASV   1  Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the wicked, Nor standeth in the way of sinners, Nor sitteth in the seat of scoffers:  2  But his delight is in the law of Jehovah; And on his law doth he meditate day and night.  3  And he shall be like a tree planted by the streams of water, That bringeth forth its fruit in its season, Whose leaf also doth not wither; And whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.  4  The wicked are not so, But are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.  5  Therefore the wicked shall not stand in the judgment, Nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.  6  For Jehovah knoweth the way of the righteous; But the way of the wicked shall perish.

Brothers and Sisters,

We might not see it, but the wicked will reap what they sow. Nothing is hidden from our Creator - He sees everything - even the things that the wicked think are hidden. As Christians, we can pray that God helps us to bear fruit that will Glorify Him. The things of the wicked will be blown away, but the riches of Christ are Eternal. In Him is Life, and the Holy Spirit of God lives in our hearts as a guide and comforter. As Christians, we are already One In Spirit and Members of the Body Of Christ Eternal. Our Saviour Lives, so we Live In Him. May God help us to bear fruit and bring others to Him so that they may also have Life. The contrast is stark:  darkness and death versus Light and Life.

Love In Christ,
Tom

Portions of Isaiah are beautiful and speak volumes. Here's a little gem I want to share.

Isaiah 55:1-13 ASV   1  Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.  2  Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.  3  Incline your ear, and come unto me; hear, and your soul shall live: and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.  4  Behold, I have given him for a witness to the peoples, a leader and commander to the peoples.  5  Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not; and a nation that knew not thee shall run unto thee, because of Jehovah thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee.  6  Seek ye Jehovah while he may be found; call ye upon him while he is near:  7  let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts; and let him return unto Jehovah, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.  8  For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith Jehovah.  9  For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.  10  For as the rain cometh down and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, and giveth seed to the sower and bread to the eater;  11  so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.  12  For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing; and all the trees of the fields shall clap their hands.  13  Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir-tree; and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle-tree: and it shall be to Jehovah for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.

Brothers and Sisters,

This portion of Scripture speaks for itself, and I think that it's incredibly beautiful.

Love in Christ,
Tom

Ephesians 2:17-22 NLT  He has brought this Good News of peace to you Gentiles who were far away from him, and to us Jews who were near.  18  Now all of us, both Jews and Gentiles, may come to the Father through the same Holy Spirit because of what Christ has done for us.  19  So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God's holy people. You are members of God's family.  20  We are his house, built on the foundation of the apostles and the prophets. And the cornerstone is Christ Jesus himself.  21  We who believe are carefully joined together, becoming a holy temple for the Lord.  22  Through him you Gentiles are also joined together as part of this dwelling where God lives by his Spirit.

There was a time when Gentiles were considered to be unclean and not fit to share in the things of the Lord. The Jews were not allowed to even associate with the Gentiles, but Jesus Christ changed all of that. The Gentiles have been given the Good News of Jesus Christ and the Cross, and all people who accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour have the same Holy Spirit living in their hearts. We are joined together in One Spirit and One Body - The Body Of Christ - a Church not made with human hands. All people In Christ are members of God's Family - inheritors as sons and daughters of the King Of Kings - Almighty God. If you are a Child of God, think about these things often and give thanks. Love others by telling them about Jesus Christ - the only way to Salvation.

Love In Christ,
Tom

Ephesians 2:1-10 NLT  Once you were dead, doomed forever because of your many sins.  2  You used to live just like the rest of the world, full of sin, obeying Satan, the mighty prince of the power of the air. He is the spirit at work in the hearts of those who refuse to obey God.  3  All of us used to live that way, following the passions and desires of our evil nature. We were born with an evil nature, and we were under God's anger just like everyone else.  4  But God is so rich in mercy, and he loved us so very much,  5  that even while we were dead because of our sins, he gave us life when he raised Christ from the dead. (It is only by God's special favor that you have been saved!)  6  For he raised us from the dead along with Christ, and we are seated with him in the heavenly realms-all because we are one with Christ Jesus.  7  And so God can always point to us as examples of the incredible wealth of his favor and kindness toward us, as shown in all he has done for us through Christ Jesus.  8  God saved you by his special favor when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God.  9  Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.  10  For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.


This is an incredibly beautiful portion of Scripture that speaks for itself. We are lost and doomed without Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. Just think - He loved us enough to die for us - even when we were disobedient to God. In fact, our disobedience made us followers of Satan, and we shared the same penalty as Satan - the Eternal fires of hell. This is the curse of sin and death, and only Faith in Jesus Christ can set us free from it.

As Christians, our Life is now in Christ, and Christ is alive. The Holy Spirit of God comes to live in our hearts when we accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour, and we have Eternal Life with Jesus Christ in Heaven. We must always remember that we can't earn Salvation or be worthy of Salvation. We are worthy of Salvation ONLY because of the Perfect Sacrifice Jesus Christ made for us on the Cross. Only Jesus Christ makes us fit or worthy for Salvation, so there is nothing for us to brag about. If there is any bragging, it must be in Jesus Christ - not ourselves.

Philippians 4:4-8 ASV  Rejoice in the Lord always: again I will say, Rejoice.  5  Let your forbearance be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.  6  In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.  7  And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus.  8  Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honorable, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Brothers and Sisters,

Think about the beautiful Truth above and know that it has nothing to do with the standards of the world. It isn't talking about the health, wealth, or peace of this world - rather of our inheritance In Christ - the Eternal Riches of Christ that the world has nothing to compare to. We should give thanks for all that God gives us in this short life, but our Real Citizenship in Heaven is yet to come. What God intends for us for Eternity is beyond human imagination. Until then, God has given us His Word to study and His Promises to know what Eternity holds for us. The Holy Spirit of God already lives in our hearts, and our hearts are Sealed with the Holy Spirit as a pledge of the Eternal Promises of God. So, the circumstances of this short life are nothing in comparison to what God intends for His Children. GIVE THANKS!

Love In Christ,
Tom

Brothers and Sisters,

I want to share a portion of Scripture that I'm reading right now. It speaks volumes and it speaks for itself.

Titus 2:11-15 NLT  For the grace of God has been revealed, bringing salvation to all people.  12  And we are instructed to turn from godless living and sinful pleasures. We should live in this evil world with self-control, right conduct, and devotion to God,  13  while we look forward to that wonderful event when the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, will be revealed.  14  He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing what is right.  15  You must teach these things and encourage your people to do them, correcting them when necessary. You have the authority to do this, so don't let anyone ignore you or disregard what you say.

As Christians, we have already accepted God's Matchless Grace, His Gifts to us, His Promises, and Jesus Christ as our Lord and Saviour forever. We do live in difficult times, so we need strength and encouragement more than we as humans possess. But we have CHRIST, and HE wants to walk with us every step of the way. We also have GOD'S WORD, the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD living in our hearts, and each other. We have already been accepted as Children of the KING OF KINGS, and our journey here in this life will be short. GOD has already given us everything we need to finish our course, and we can trust HIM to fulfill all of HIS Promises to us most perfectly.

Love In Christ,
Tom

John 1:1-7 NLT  In the beginning the Word already existed. He was with God, and he was God.  2  He was in the beginning with God.  3  He created everything there is. Nothing exists that he didn't make.  4  Life itself was in him, and this life gives light to everyone.  5  The light shines through the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it.  6  God sent John the Baptist  7  to tell everyone about the light so that everyone might believe because of his testimony.


This is a beautiful portion of Scripture that speaks volumes. "The Word" is Jesus Christ and He is the Light of the world. The "beginning" spoken of refers to Creation. God The Father, God The Son, and God The Holy Spirit are the Eternal Godhead, and they don't have a beginning or ending. John the Baptist was a humble servant who told of Christ's Glorious First Coming. Jesus Christ, Very God, did come to live among men, and He is the most written about in human history. He is real - He lives - and He's our Lord and Saviour forever!

Love In Christ,
Tom

2 Corinthians 4:1-4 NLT  1  And so, since God in his mercy has given us this wonderful ministry, we never give up.  2  We reject all shameful and underhanded methods. We do not try to trick anyone, and we do not distort the word of God. We tell the truth before God, and all who are honest know that.  3  If the Good News we preach is veiled from anyone, it is a sign that they are perishing.  4  Satan, the god of this evil world, has blinded the minds of those who don't believe, so they are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News that is shining upon them. They don't understand the message we preach about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.


Yes, God has given us great mercy, and He wants to give that same mercy, grace, and love with all people. God has no desire for any people to die in their sins without Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. We are His children, and we have the same desires. The Good News that we share is God's Good News, the same Good News that Saved us. The wonderful message is simple enough for a small child to understand, but it's still the most powerful and precious message in this world. There is room for all at the foot of the Cross, so keep sharing the Good News. Many will reject and even mock the Good News, but don't let that discourage you. God's Word is never wasted, and His Word always accomplishes His Perfect Will and purpose. We must know and remember that His Word never returns void.

Love In Christ,
Tom

1:  Romans 3:10 NLT  As the Scriptures say, "No one is good- not even one.

2:  Romans 3:23 NLT  For all have sinned; all fall short of God's glorious standard.

3:  Romans 5:12 NLT  When Adam sinned, sin entered the entire human race. Adam's sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned.

4:  Romans 6:23 NLT  For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.

5:  Romans 1:18 NLT  But God shows his anger from heaven against all sinful, wicked people who push the truth away from themselves.

6:  Romans 3:19-20 NLT  Obviously, the law applies to those to whom it was given, for its purpose is to keep people from having excuses and to bring the entire world into judgment before God.  20  For no one can ever be made right in God's sight by doing what his law commands. For the more we know God's law, the clearer it becomes that we aren't obeying it.

7:  Romans 3:27 NLT  Can we boast, then, that we have done anything to be accepted by God? No, because our acquittal is not based on our good deeds. It is based on our faith.

8:  Romans 5:8-9 NLT  But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.  9  And since we have been made right in God's sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God's judgment.

9:  Romans 2:3-4 NLT  Do you think that God will judge and condemn others for doing them and not judge you when you do them, too?  4  Don't you realize how kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Or don't you care? Can't you see how kind he has been in giving you time to turn from your sin?

10:  Romans 3:19-22 NLT  Obviously, the law applies to those to whom it was given, for its purpose is to keep people from having excuses and to bring the entire world into judgment before God.  20  For no one can ever be made right in God's sight by doing what his law commands. For the more we know God's law, the clearer it becomes that we aren't obeying it.  21  But now God has shown us a different way of being right in his sight-not by obeying the law but by the way promised in the Scriptures long ago.  22  We are made right in God's sight when we trust in Jesus Christ to take away our sins. And we all can be saved in this same way, no matter who we are or what we have done.

11:  Romans 3:24-28 NLT  Yet now God in his gracious kindness declares us not guilty. He has done this through Christ Jesus, who has freed us by taking away our sins.  25  For God sent Jesus to take the punishment for our sins and to satisfy God's anger against us. We are made right with God when we believe that Jesus shed his blood, sacrificing his life for us. God was being entirely fair and just when he did not punish those who sinned in former times.  26  And he is entirely fair and just in this present time when he declares sinners to be right in his sight because they believe in Jesus.  27  Can we boast, then, that we have done anything to be accepted by God? No, because our acquittal is not based on our good deeds. It is based on our faith.  28  So we are made right with God through faith and not by obeying the law.

12:  Romans 10:8-9 NLT  Salvation that comes from trusting Christ-which is the message we preach-is already within easy reach. In fact, the Scriptures say, "The message is close at hand; it is on your lips and in your heart."  9  For 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.

13:  Romans 4:14-25 NLT  So if you claim that God's promise is for those who obey God's law and think they are "good enough" in God's sight, then you are saying that faith is useless. And in that case, the promise is also meaningless.  15  But the law brings punishment on those who try to obey it. (The only way to avoid breaking the law is to have no law to break!)  16  So that's why faith is the key! God's promise is given to us as a free gift. And we are certain to receive it, whether or not we follow Jewish customs, if we have faith like Abraham's. For Abraham is the father of all who believe.  17  That is what the Scriptures mean when God told him, "I have made you the father of many nations." This happened because Abraham believed in the God who brings the dead back to life and who brings into existence what didn't exist before.  18  When God promised Abraham that he would become the father of many nations, Abraham believed him. God had also said, "Your descendants will be as numerous as the stars," even though such a promise seemed utterly impossible!  19  And Abraham's faith did not weaken, even though he knew that he was too old to be a father at the age of one hundred and that Sarah, his wife, had never been able to have children.  20  Abraham never wavered in believing God's promise. In fact, his faith grew stronger, and in this he brought glory to God.  21  He was absolutely convinced that God was able to do anything he promised.  22  And because of Abraham's faith, God declared him to be righteous.  23  Now this wonderful truth-that God declared him to be righteous-wasn't just for Abraham's benefit.  24  It was for us, too, assuring us that God will also declare us to be righteous if we believe in God, who brought Jesus our Lord back from the dead.  25  He was handed over to die because of our sins, and he was raised from the dead to make us right with God.

14:  Romans 10:8-13 NLT  Salvation that comes from trusting Christ-which is the message we preach-is already within easy reach. In fact, the Scriptures say, "The message is close at hand; it is on your lips and in your heart."  9  For 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.  10  For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved.  11  As the Scriptures tell us, "Anyone who believes in him will not be disappointed."  12  Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They all have the same Lord, who generously gives his riches to all who ask for them.  13  For "Anyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

Hello all, I hope Jesus has been wonderful in everyone life.  I haven't been online here in some time.   I have soo many scriptures that I could share that I live by day by day but let me keep it short here. 

I have many friends that are from faiths where traditions and culture are important to their salvation.  Thank Jesus that he gave us a faith where the quality of our spirits are what is important to the Kingdom of Heaven.  I talk to people of faiths where they think who their families are will make them more important to God than others.  I am American by nationality and here in the USA we don't have ancient traditions or an ancient language but does any of that matter to our LORD JESUS?  By no means does it matter!  I had a man from overseas lecture me about how his faith is more valid because his language dates back 1000s of years.  He followed ancient customs and his family knows their bloodline back for centuries.  I said to him; "Wow that fascinating".  "Now teach me what Jesus says about salvation as far as anything that you feel makes you close to God".   As you can imagine, he became as quite as a mouse.

Jesus has given us a faith that all can believe in whether American, European, Latin American, African Asian, rich, poor, etc...  The Holy Spirit has no nationality and is attached to no single culture or set of traditions.  Jesus teaches us of the principles which govern the Kingdom of Heaven.   He spoke in parables so that only those who are listening with their hearts and not just their ears will hear him.  He rose with all authority given to him.  Jesus is the life and the resurrection.  Those who believe in him shall not die but have everlasting life.

Amen!

AMEN FAITHFILLED!

So True and Beautiful! God looks at the heart and could care less about pedigrees, gold, or other worldly things. The things that the world looks at don't amount to anything.

I was just reading before logging on and want to share a portion of Scripture.

Hebrews 1:1-3 ASV  God, having of old time spoken unto the fathers in the prophets by divers portions and in divers manners,  2  hath at the end of these days spoken unto us in his Son, whom he appointed heir of all things, through whom also he made the worlds;  3  who being the effulgence of his glory, and the very image of his substance, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had made purification of sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;


If we want to talk about real Glory and Majesty, we have to talk about God. Even the most destitute Christians are Children of the KING OF KINGS and have a full inheritance in Heaven waiting for them. Being rich or poor or having social status in this short life will mean absolutely nothing. In fact, I suspect that many of the very poor Christians in this short life will have more Crowns waiting for them in Heaven. Maybe it will be because they weren't corrupted with power, influence, and MONEY. Maybe they were just simple servants who loved God and gave Him a Higher Place in their lives.

Love In Christ,
Tom

John 4:9-14 ASV  9  The Samaritan woman therefore saith unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, who am a Samaritan woman? (For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans.) 10 Jesus answered and said unto unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water. 11 The woman saith unto him, Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: whence then hast thou that living water? 12 Art thou greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his sons, and his cattle? 13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Every one that drinketh of this water shall thirst again: 14 but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall become in him a well of water springing up unto eternal life.

^^ Amen blackeyedpeas !  ;)

Brothers and Sisters,

This evil world is going downhill pretty rapidly, and I think that things are going to get more difficult for Christians by the day. We can see the signs around the world that the end days of this Age of Grace may be growing near. We need to remember that God is with us, and we are already purchased possessions of Jesus Christ.

We can also concentrate daily on the Promises of God and know that this short life is not all there is. Our Hope is not of this world, and our Hope hasn't changed. I was just reading the following portion of Scripture in several translations and want to share them with you.

Ephesians 1:18-23 KJV  The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,  19  And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,  20  Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places,  21  Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:  22  And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church,  23  Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.


Ephesians 1:18-23 AMP  By having the eyes of your heart flooded with light, so that you can know and understand the hope to which He has called you, and how rich is His glorious inheritance in the saints (His set-apart ones),  19  And [so that you can know and understand] what is the immeasurable and unlimited and surpassing greatness of His power in and for us who believe, as demonstrated in the working of His mighty strength,  20  Which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His [own] right hand in the heavenly [places],  21  Far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and every name that is named [above every title that can be conferred], not only in this age and in this world, but also in the age and the world which are to come.  22  And He has put all things under His feet and has appointed Him the universal and supreme Head of the church [a headship exercised throughout the church], [Ps. 8:6.]  23  Which is His body, the fullness of Him Who fills all in all [for in that body lives the full measure of Him Who makes everything complete, and Who fills everything everywhere with Himself].


Ephesians 1:18-23 NLT  I pray that your hearts will be flooded with light so that you can understand the wonderful future he has promised to those he called. I want you to realize what a rich and glorious inheritance he has given to his people.  19  I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of his power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power  20  that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God's right hand in the heavenly realms.  21  Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else in this world or in the world to come.  22  And God has put all things under the authority of Christ, and he gave him this authority for the benefit of the church.  23  And the church is his body; it is filled by Christ, who fills everything everywhere with his presence.


I think this portion of Scripture is incredibly beautiful to read, study, and reflect on often. In short, we need to fix our eyes on Jesus Christ and His Glory.

Love In Christ,
Tom

Brothers and Sisters,

I'd like to share a beautiful portion of Scripture that can apply to us today. I realize that we aren't Israel, but let this portion of Scripture speak to you:

Nehemiah 1:5-11 (ESV)5 And I said, “O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, 6 let your ear be attentive and your eyes open, to hear the prayer of your servant that I now pray before you day and night for the people of Israel your servants, confessing the sins of the people of Israel, which we have sinned against you. Even I and my father's house have sinned. 7 We have acted very corruptly against you and have not kept the commandments, the statutes, and the rules that you commanded your servant Moses. 8 Remember the word that you commanded your servant Moses, saying, ‘If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the peoples, 9 but if you return to me and keep my commandments and do them, though your outcasts are in the uttermost parts of heaven, from there I will gather them and bring them to the place that I have chosen, to make my name dwell there.’ 10 They are your servants and your people, whom you have redeemed by your great power and by your strong hand. 11 O Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of your servant, and to the prayer of your servants who delight to fear your name, and give success to your servant today, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man.” Now I was cupbearer to the king.

As a contrast, God has already been forming and completing HIS CHURCH WHICH IS THE BODY OF CHRIST, so HE is already gathering us for an Eternal purpose, and we are already members of a Heavenly Kingdom. We need to come to HIM at least daily with a humbled heart and Thanksgiving for what HE has already done for us. HE'S already our KING OF KINGS, HEAVENLY FATHER, AND SAVIOUR. HE'S already rescued us from the curse of sin and death. Israel still awaits their MESSIAH in blindness while the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD already lives in our hearts.

Love In Christ,
Tom

Colossians 3:1-2 (ASV)1 If then ye were raised together with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated on the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on the things that are above, not on the things that are upon the earth.

Brothers and Sisters, if we are saved and belong to Jesus Christ, we were raised together with Him. The moment we accepted Him as Lord and Saviour - we arose from the dead and were rescued from the curse of sin and death. In Him is Light and Life for Eternity. Our old condition was darkness and death. This makes a beautiful Bible Study when one puts everything together. As Christians, we are now in Christ - members of His Body. We have Eternal Life because Christ has Eternal Life. We are Children of the Light because Jesus Christ is the Light. Things just become more beautiful when we look at God's Promises to us.

Sadly, we know what will happen to the children of darkness, and we know their destination. As a stark contrast, we know our Destination with Christ for Eternity. Jesus Christ makes us fit for a Heavenly Inheritance that awaits us. Until then, we can be as lights in a dark and perverse world, and that is a reasonable service of Love for the One who Saved us.

Love In Christ,
Tom

2 Corinthians 3:2-5 (ASV)2 Ye are our epistle, written in our hearts, known and read of all men; 3 being made manifest that ye are an epistle of Christ, ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in tables [that are] hearts of flesh. 4 And such confidence have we through Christ to God-ward: 5 not that we are sufficient of ourselves, to account anything as from ourselves; but our sufficiency is from God;

Brothers And Sisters,

Read carefully and think about the meaning of this portion of Scripture. The Apostle Paul makes numerous comparisons between the Law of Moses and the Grace and Love of God. Paul's Epistles are full of these stark comparisons because of the Greatness of The GOOD NEWS that Jesus Christ died on the Cross for the sins of mankind, and mankind could have Peace with God by believing who Jesus Christ is and what He did on the CROSS. The Law was cold and written on Stone, but the Grace and Love of God is now written and abides in the hearts of men who believe. The contrast couldn't be more stark.

Man is not sufficient in anything alone, but a believer is not alone. Under the Law, the Spirit of God lived in the HOLY OF HOLIES, and many death sentences were associated with the approach to the HOLY OF HOLIES. Now, THE SPIRIT OF GOD lives in the hearts of believers. The Hearts of Believers have become a Temple for the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD. Under the Law, this would have been a statement of blasphemy because only Levitical Priests could approach the HOLY OF HOLIES, and there were many ordinances and ceremonies even for the Levitical Priests to follow without facing death. Now, a new Babe in CHRIST has the HOLY SPIRIT OF GOD LIVING in their hearts, and they can approach the THRONE OF GRACE in prayer day or night without the need of a Priest. Jesus Christ HIMSELF is the mediator between the Believer and our HEAVENLY FATHER. How wonderful and beautiful is this?

Now let's talk some about appreciation and love. As Christians, we can be and should be a pleasing Testimony before men. God wants to and can WORK IN AND THROUGH US to reach and help others. This is NOT a commanded service to GOD, but isn't this a reasonable service to GOD and others who may be without CHRIST in their lives? YES, and this service must be motivated by Love of CHRIST and those HE wants to draw to HIMSELF. We can be and are a LIVING STORY OF CHRIST - THE GOOD NEWS.

What is the GOSPEL or the GOOD NEWS? If you look at the ancient languages of the Bible, it would translate to:

THE GOOD TRUTH - THE STORY OF GOD!

Love In Christ,
Tom


 

Ephesians 5:22-33 (ASV)22 Wives, [be in subjection] unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church, [being] himself the saviour of the body. 24 But as the church is subject to Christ, so [let] the wives also [be] to their husbands in everything. 25 Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself up for it; 26 that he might sanctify it, having cleansed it by the washing of water with the word, 27 that he might present the church to himself a glorious [church] , not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. 28 Even so ought husbands also to love their own wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his own wife loveth himself: 29 for no man ever hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as Christ also the church; 30 because we are members of his body. 31 For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife; and the two shall become one flesh. 32 This mystery is great: but I speak in regard of Christ and of the church. 33 Nevertheless do ye also severally love each one his own wife even as himself; and [let] the wife [see] that she fear her husband.

Brothers and Sisters,

The term "Marriage" is cheap today and mocked by much of the world. Sadly, many Christians either don't know or have forgotten that Marriage is Holy and Under God. Ephesians 5 contains God's instructions for Marriage, and you will see quickly that Marriage is serious and should never be taken lightly. Read Ephesians 5 carefully and you will see the priorities for a Godly, Christian Marriage. First, and most obviously, God must be the Head of the Home. Let the portion of Scripture speak for itself in the beautiful description of real Love.

The couple wanting to get married must first know what Marriage and Real Love are before setting a date. So, it's good to receive counseling from their pastor as the relationship starts to get serious. A happy Marriage is a Godly Marriage according to the instructions of the Holy Bible. Sadly, many marriages end in divorce in this day and time, so it's obvious that little or no attention was paid to God and His instructions. Bad endings result in tremendous misery, especially when children are involved. The solution is at the beginning:  the couple first yields themselves to God - and then to each other with God as the Head of the Home.

Love In Christ,
Tom



 

Brothers and Sisters,

I'd like to share a portion of Scripture I'm reading now from Jesus. Please keep in mind this is during a time when Jesus has been rejected by most of His own, and He is even enduring mockery and claims that His miracles are of the devil.

John 10:1-18 (ASV)1 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the fold of the sheep, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. 2 But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. 4 When he hath put forth all his own, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. 5 And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers. 6 This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them. 7 Jesus therefore said unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All that came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. 9 I am the door; by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and go out, and shall find pasture. 10 The thief cometh not, but that he may steal, and kill, and destroy: I came that they may have life, and may have [it] abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd layeth down his life for the sheep. 12 He that is a hireling, and not a shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, beholdeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth, and the wolf snatcheth them, and scattereth [them] : 13 [ he fleeth] because he is a hireling, and careth not for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd; and I know mine own, and mine own know me, 15 even as the Father knoweth me, and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice: and they shall become one flock, one shepherd. 17 Therefore doth the Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I may take it again. 18 No one taketh it away from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again. This commandment received I from my Father.

The Good Shepherd, True Shepherd, and Great Shepherd is Jesus Christ. Jesus is trying to explain things in a way that they will understand, and I think this is one of the most beautiful portions of Scripture in the Bible. The word "porter" in Verse 3 is an interesting word from the root port - an entry way - in context here - gate keeper. Truly, all others but Jesus Christ are thieves and robbers. Jesus Christ is the only one willing to lay down His life for His flock.

Jesus Christ is dealing with some mockers and unbelievers, and He goes on to explain several Verses later:

John 10:27-30 (ASV)27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: 28 and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who hath given [them] unto me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch [them] out of the Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one.

They considered his statement "I and the Father are one" to be blasphemy and they took up stones to stone Him. However, it wasn't time yet for Him to lay His life down, and He went away out of their hands. No man or mob had the power to take the life of Jesus Christ. When the time came, Jesus Christ willingly gave His life on the Cross, but He arose from the dead on the third day. Death has no power over Jesus Christ because He is very God. Jesus Christ is our living Lord and Saviour, and He can be your Lord and Saviour also. Once you become a member of His flock, He will never leave or forsake you, and no power can snatch you out of His hands. He is the Good Shepherd, and all others are thieves and robbers. He's already laid down His life for you, so He loves you like no other.

Love In Christ,
Tom


 

Philippians 3:8-10 KJV  Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,  9  And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:  10  That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

Read this carefully and understand what the Apostle Paul is saying. First, he prizes knowing Jesus Christ as His Lord and Saviour and says that the things of this world are as dung. The Apostle Paul literally did give up all things to know and preach Christ, but he firmly states that he doesn't have any righteousness of his own. Grace is a key point of his ministry because man can do nothing to earn or deserve God's favor. "The righteousness which is of God by faith" speaks volumes for the entire history of man - both the Old Testament and the New Testament.

Romans 10:1-4 KJV  Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.  2  For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.  3  For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.  4  For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.


People can't establish their own righteousness by obeying God's Laws. Man isn't capable of obeying God's Laws, and man has no righteousness of his own. This is one of the main reasons why Jesus Christ went to the Cross for us. We must yield to the Righteousness of Christ, and the only way to do that is by faith in Him. Christ is our righteousness. HOW BEAUTIFUL IS THIS?

 

Ephesians 3:9-12  And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:  10  To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,  11  According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:  12  In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him.


The revelation of Jesus Christ is one of the most beautiful studies in the Bible. God refers to this as a "mystery" because the knowledge of Jesus Christ and the Cross were not known to men of previous ages. It's still not known very well by even Christians today. Briefly, Christians are one in Christ and are HIS CHURCH - a CHURCH not made with human hands - Eternal - THE BRIDE OF CHRIST - JOINED IN HIM FOR ETERNITY.


 

Romans 5:17  For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)


We were once under the tyrannical master of death, but now we have Eternal Life in Jesus Christ. God's Love and Matchless Grace mean more than we can ever dream of. Because we are In Christ, we will reign with Him as Royalty in Heaven. The Righteousness given to us belongs to Jesus Christ. We received this priceless Gift by Faith in Jesus Christ, and Only Christ makes us fit for our Heavenly Inheritance. Christ gave us Life in His Life. Think about this - Give Thanks - Praise Him - Worship Him.

 

The Grace Of God That Bringeth Salvation

Titus 2:11-15  For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,  12  Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;  13  Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;  14  Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.  15  These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.

God has extended His Grace, His Love, and His Gift of Jesus Christ on the Cross to all men. There is no greater love than this. Many men have rejected God's Love and Gifts, but that shouldn't effect our boldness in proclaiming God's Good News. We who have accepted God's Love and Gifts are unique, as God is purifying and perfecting His Eternal Possessions. Our part is to yield and know that God began a good work in us that He will most definitely complete. This evil world awaits the Holy Wrath of God and Judgment, but we await Christ coming in great Love to take us Home to Glory.

Titus 2:11-15 is a beautiful summation of our Salvation that also speaks of our reasonable service for The Holy One who Died on the Cross in our place. When we speak of the Holy Things of God and Salvation, we should speak boldly, unashamed, and with the Authority of God's Word. We should know that many men hate God and reject His Authority, but that changes nothing. These are times that we pray for God's Guidance, strength, and courage to speak God's Word in boldness. We should never apologize or be apologetic in speaking God's Word, and this pertains not just to the lost, but to each other when we encourage each other. One of the keys to this passage of Scripture is God's Word and God's Message - not our words or the message of men.

Love In Christ,
Tom