Let not your heart be troubled.
To render evil for evil is brutish;
to render evil for good is devilish;
to render good for evil is Christian.

"Blessed are the meek."

Thank you so much.

Five sharp stings!

(Thomas Watson, "A Divine Cordial" 1663)

Many love sin, more than God. "They are haters of
God, insolent, proud, and boastful. They are forever
inventing new ways of sinning." (Romans 1:30)

What is there in sin—that any should love it?

Sin is a debt. "Forgive us our debts" (Matthew 6:12).
Sin is a debt which binds over to the wrath of God!
And will you love sin? Does any man love to be in debt?

Sin is a disease. "The whole head is sick" (Isaiah 1:5).
And will you love sin? Will any man hug a disease? Will
he love his plague sores?

Sin is a pollution. The apostle calls it "filthiness" (James
1:21). It is compared to leprosy and to poison of asps!

God's heart rises against sinners. "My soul loathed
them!" (Zechariah 11:.

Sin is a hideous monster. Lust makes a man brutish;
malice makes him devilish! What is in sin to be loved?
Shall we love deformity?

Sin is an enemy. It is compared to a
"serpent". Sin has five sharp stings:
  shame,
  guilt,
  horror,
  death,
  damnation!

Will a man love that which seeks his death?
Surely then it is better to love God than sin.
God will save you—but sin will damn you!
Is he not a fool—who loves damnation!

~  ~  ~  ~  ~  ~

But love to God will never let sin thrive in the heart.
The love of God withers sin. The flower of love kills the
weed of sin! How should we labor for that grace of love
to God—which is the only corrosive to destroy sin!

The knife which killed her husband!

(Thomas Watson, "The Ten Commandments")

The Lord's Supper is the looking-glass in which we see
Him whom our souls love; it is the chariot by which we
are carried up to Christ. God has appointed the Lord's
Supper to cheer and revive our sad hearts. When we
look on our sins—we have cause to mourn; but when
we see Christ's blood shed for our sins—we rejoice!

In the Lord's Supper our spiritual needs are supplied,
our strength is renewed; there we meet with Christ
—and He says to us, "All I have is yours! My love is
yours, to pity you! My mercy is yours, to save you!"
Christ's blood is the key which opens heaven—else
we had all been shut out!

The end of the Lord's Supper, is to work in us an
endeared love to Christ. When Christ bleeds for us,
well may we say, "Behold how He loved us!" That
is a heart of stone—which Christ's love will not melt!

Another end of the Lord's Supper is the mortifying of
corruption. To see Christ crucified for us—is a means
to crucify sin in us. How can a wife endure to see the
knife which killed her husband! How can we endure
those sins—which made Christ veil His glory and shed
His blood! Sin has rent the white robe of Christ's flesh,
and dyed it of a crimson color. The thoughts of this
should make us seek to be avenged on our sins!

WHY GOD PERMITS DEMONIC ACTIVITY
By Don Rogers
1. To be an agent of TESTING (Job 1 & 2; Luke 22:31-32)
· Satan was permitted to destroy Job’s family, wealth and afflict him physically.
· Satan was permitted to sift Peter when Jesus was captured.
2. To be an agent of CHASTISEMENT (Isaiah 5 – The Parable of the Vineyard)
· When the vineyard did not produce good fruit, its protection from the enemy was
taken away so it could be trampled on. The rain was taken away to stifle its
growth.
· When Christians do not produce fruit, we will be more vulnerable to the enemy
and the blessings will decrease.
3. To be an agent of JUDGMENT (Judges 9 and 1 Kings 22)
· God used an evil spirit to bring judgment on Abimelech and the men of
Shechem.
· God used a lying spirit to lead king Ahab to his death.
4. To be a HUMBLING agent (2 Cor. 12:7-10) Paul’s testimony
· “To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassing great
revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to
torment me.”
5. To demonstrate GOD’S SOVEREIGNTY – (Daniel 10; 2 Kings 6)
· An angel sent to Daniel to bring an answer to his prayer had to fight a demonic
prince over Persia. He got the assistance of Michael, the archangel, to get
through.
· When the army of the King of Aram surrounded Dothan in order to capture
Elisha, the prophet, the Lord provided a heavenly army to protect Elisha. When
the enemy army came down toward him, Elisha prayed to the Lord, “Strike these
people with blindness.” They were made blind and Elisha told them they were in
the wrong place and led them to Samaria.
6. To train God’s people to use His AUTHORITY and POWER (1 Peter 5:8-9)
· “Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring
lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith,
because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the
same kind of sufferings.”
· “I have given you authority to trample on snakes and scorpions and to overcome
all the power of the enemy, nothing will harm you.”
© 2005 – Spiritual Warfare Ministries, Inc.

They were not carried on beds of ease to heaven!

(Charles Spurgeon)

"Woe is me—that I dwell among these scoundrels of Meshech! It pains me to live with these people from Kedar!" Psalm 120:5

As a Christian, you have to live in the midst of an ungodly world, and it is of little use for you to cry, "Woe is me!"

Jesus did not pray, "O that you should be taken out of the world!" And what He did not pray for—you need not desire! Better far in the Lord's strength—to meet the difficulty, and glorify Him in it.

The enemy is ever on the watch to detect inconsistency in your conduct; be therefore very holy. Remember that the eyes of all are upon you—and that more is expected from you, than from others! Strive to give no occasion for blame. Like Daniel, let your godliness and piety be the only faults which they can discover in you.

Seek to be useful—as well as consistent. Perhaps you think, "If I were in a more favorable position, I might be able to serve the Lord's cause. But I cannot do any good where I am!" But the worse the people are among whom you live—the more need they have of your exertions! If they are crooked—the more necessity that you should set them straight! If they are perverse—the more need have you to turn their proud hearts to the truth. Where should the physician be—but where there are many sick? Where is honor to be won by the soldier—but in the hottest fire of the battle?

When weary of the strife and sin which meets you on every hand—consider that all the saints have endured the same trial! They were not carried on beds of ease to heaven—and you must not expect to travel more easily than they! They had to hazard their lives unto the death, in the midst of the battlefield—and you will not be crowned—until you also have endured hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Therefore, "Be courageous! Be strong!" 1 Corinthians 16:13
 

Surely something must be amiss with the scales!

(Charles Spurgeon)

"You are to have honest balances, honest weights, an honest dry measure, and an honest liquid measure; I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt." Leviticus 19:36

Weights, and scales, and measures—were to be all according to the standard of justice.

Surely no Christian will need to be reminded of this in his business, for if justice were banished from all the world beside—it should find a shelter in true Christian hearts!

There are, however, other scales and balances which weigh moral and spiritual things—and these often need examining. We will call in the Judge right now.

Those scales in which we weigh our own and other men's characters—are they quite accurate? Do we not turn our own ounces of goodness—into pounds; and other people's pounds of excellence—into ounces? See to just weights and measures here, Christian!

Those scales in which we measure our trials and troubles—are they according to standard? Paul, who had far more to suffer than we have—called his afflictions light. Yet we often consider our afflictions to be heavy! Surely something must be amiss with the scales! We must see to this matter, lest we get reported to the court above, for unjust dealing!

Those scales with which we measure our beliefs—are they quite fair? The precepts and doctrines should have the same weight with us as the promises—no more and no less! With many, one scale or the other is unfairly weighted. It is a grand matter to give just measure in God's truths. Christian, be careful here!

Those scales in which we estimate our obligations and responsibilities look rather small. When a rich man gives no more to the cause of God, than the poor contribute—is that an honest weight, an honest measure, a just balance?

Reader, we might lengthen the list—but we prefer to leave it as your day's work—to find out and destroy all unjust scales, balances, weights, and measures!
 

Consider Jesus– in Obedience to Human Law

"Render unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's." –Matt. 22:21

The obedience of Jesus, whether natural or moral--whether yielded to a divine or a human law--was, like all that He did, worthy of Himself. In no instance did He exhibit anything approaching resistance to constituted authority. Rebellion against Satan and sin was the only insubordination that marked our Lord's life on earth. On no occasion did either His doctrine or His practice come into direct and hostile antagonism with the State. The example before us is striking and conclusive of this. We read that the "Pharisees took counsel how they might entangle Him in His talk." They came to Him and inquired, "Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?" But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, "Why are you tempting me, you hypocrites?" Had He pronounced it unlawful, caught in their snare, they would instantly have denounced Him to Herod as teaching treason against Caesar, and thus have evoked the rage of the people and the hostility of the government. But mark the wisdom and equity with which He defeated the design and exposed the craft and wickedness of His enemies, and in so doing, enunciated and enforced the moral precept which we are now to consider--"Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's." The consideration of the duty we owe, as Christians and citizens, to human law, may not be out of place, since there exists a strong and growing tendency to override all human law, and to ignore all civil authority, than which there is not a more direct violation of God's word or a more palpable violation of the spirit of Christianity.

Jesus recognized the existence of the civil power as an institution of God himself: "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." (Rom. 13:1, 2). Such must be our starting-point in all our relations to civil government. Recognizing the human ordinance to be of divine appointment, the question of reverence to authority and of obedience to law will not reasonably admit of a moment's hesitation.

Jesus rendered unhesitating and implicit submission to both CIVIL and ECCLESIASTICAL law. We have seen it in reference to the State; another example is before us of His reverence for the Temple. When "tribute money" was demanded--or the didachma, or half-shekel levied for the religious purposes of the temple--He acknowledged its lawfulness, and, lest He should give offence by refusing to obey, He at once wrought a miracle, and paid the money (Matt. 17:24-27). Thus complete was our Lord's obedience to God and man. Upon no civil or religious law would He trample, since He had declared, "It becomes us to fulfill ALL righteousness." If a law presses upon conscience, or contravenes religious liberty, the remedy is obvious--not disobedience, but repeal; not tumultuous assemblies and inflammatory harangues, but constitutional petition. The Legislature and the Throne are accessible to the lowest and most oppressed subject of the land.

Jesus taught us that subjection to the civil magistrate was not incompatible with reverence to, and the fear of, God. How skillfully He combines them both: "Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and unto God the things that are God's." As disciples of Jesus, as children of God, as Christian citizens, let us so walk as to stand complete in all the divine will. First, and above all, let us obey God. Then will follow, in the Family relation, obedience to parents; in the State, obedience to magistrates; and in the Church of Christ, "obedience to those who have the rule over us" (Heb. 13:17).

"Let Caesar's due be ever paid
To Caesar and his throne;
But consciences and souls were made
To be the Lord's alone."

The Breaker!

(Charles Spurgeon) 

"The Breaker has gone up before them. He will bring you through the gates of your cities of captivity, back to your own land. Your King will lead you; the Lord Himself will guide you!" Micah 2:13

Inasmuch as Jesus has gone before us, things do not remain as they would have been, had He never passed that way. He has conquered every foe which has obstructed the way. Cheer up O faint-hearted warrior. Not only has Christ traveled the road--but He has slain your enemies upon life's road!

Do you dread sin? He has nailed it to His cross!

Do you fear death? He has been the death of death!

Are you afraid of hell? He has barred the gates of hell from being entered by any of His children; they shall never see the gulf of perdition!

Whatever foes may be before the Christian--they are all overcome! 


There are lions--but their teeth are broken! 


There are serpents--but their fangs are extracted! 


There are rivers--but they are bridged or fordable! 


There are flames--but we wear that matchless garment which renders us invulnerable to fire!

The Breaker, Christ--has taken away all the power that anything can have to hurt us. Well then, you may go safely and joyously along your journey, for all your enemies are conquered beforehand! What shall you do--but march on to take the prey? They are beaten, they are vanquished; all you have to do is to divide the spoil. You shall, it is true, often engage in combat; but your fight shall be with a vanquished foe! His head is broken! He may attempt to injure you--but his strength shall not be sufficient for his malicious design. Your victory shall be sure--and your treasure shall be beyond all count!

"Proclaim aloud the Savior's fame,
 Who bears the Breaker's wondrous name;
 Sweet name; and it befits Him well,
 Who breaks down earth, sin, death, and hell!"

Some of our readers may be total strangers to all such distressing experiences, and wonder why any real Christian should call into question the exact character of his or her illumination, troubling themselves not at all whether their enlightenment be natural or supernatural. Poor souls, it is greatly to be feared that a rude awakening is awaiting them from their Satan-induced sleep. But what shall we say to those who are awake and deeply concerned about their eternal interests? How are such to determine the matter? We answer, test the point. Was there not a time when you “saw no beauty in Christ that you should desire Him?” Is it so with you now? Or has He become in your eyes the “altogether lovely” One? You may be afraid to call Him yours, yet if your heart truly yearns for Him, then you must have been spiritually enlightened.the “oil” is in your vessel.

Second, oil softens. Oil was much used by the ancients for medicinal purposes, and we moderns might well take a leaf out of their books. It will melt caked wax in the ear; make tender a calloused bunion. It is very useful for tumours: repeated applications softening, then causing to burst, and then healing. Thus it is in the operation of the Holy Spirit. He finds the elect hard and obdurate by nature, and swollen with pride and self-conceit; but Divine grace softens them, melting their flinty hearts, bursting the tumours of selfrighteousness, and imparting a contrite spirit. “A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh” (Eze. 36:26).

When Divine grace has been imparted the heart is supernaturally softened. But right here the sincere soul experiences still greater difficulty, and is ready to exclaim emphatically, Then I must still be in an unregenerate state, for my heart is “as hard as the nether millstone.” Wait a moment, dear friend, and test the matter. What are the marks of a “hard heart” as given in Scripture? Are they not a total absence of a feeling sense of the exceeding sinfulness of sin, an utter unconcern whether God be pleased or displeased with my conduct, no mourning in secret when Christ has been dishonoured by me? Is that true of you, who are so ready to conclude you are still in a state of nature? If it is not, if sin is your burden and your soul grieves over your lack of conformity to Christ, then your heart must have been spiritually softened.the “oil” is in your vessel.

Third, oil heals. Hence we find the great Physician, under the figure of the good Smaritan, having compassion on the assaulted traveler, binding up his wounds and “pouring in oil and wine” (Luke 10:34); and He is still caring thus for His people through the gracious ministry of the Spirit. How often the blessed Comforter applies “the balm of Gilead” to the sin-afflicted people of God. What horrible bruises and putrifying sores do sin and Satan inflict upon the souls of the saints, yet how frequently and tenderly does the Spirit mollify and relieve them. First, He works repentance in the heart, which is a purging grace, carrying away the foul and poisonous love of sin; and then He strengthens hope, which is a comforting grace so that the joy of the Lord once more becomes his strength. Divine grace removes the load of guilt from the conscience, applies the cordial of the promises, and gives the weary pilgrim a lift by the way.“set him on His own beast” (Luke 10:34).

Here, then, is another property and effect of Divine grace: it heals the soul. We can well imagine some fearful reader exclaiming, Alas, that cuts off my hope, for their is no soundness in me. Listen, dear friend, no Christian is completely and perfectly healed from the disease of sin in this life, but he is delivered from the most fearful and fatal effects of it; and it is at this point you are to examine yourself. What are the worst things which the Fall has produced in man? Enmity against God, the love of sin, the idolizing of self. Test yourself by these things. Do you still hate God?.if so, would you repine because you love Him so feebly! Are you still in love with sin?.if so, why do you grieve over its workings! Is self now your idol?.if so, why do you, at times, loath yourself! Sin has not been eradicated, but its wounds are being healed.the “oil” is in your vessel.

The limited space now at our disposal prevents us doing more than barely mentioning a number of other features. Oil makes the joints flexible and nimble, and therefore was much used by athletes; so grace enables the Christian to “serve in newness of spirit” (Rom. 7:6) and run the race set before him. It is an excellent thing for those who have stiff joints, for it penetrates to the bones (Psa. 109:18). It makes the countenance fresh and comely (Psa. 104:15): what is more attractive to the spiritual eye than a gracious character. It sweetens our persons, so that we are unto God a “sweet savour of Christ” (2 Cor. 2:15), whereas the wicked are a “smoke in His nostrils” (Isa. 65:5). It gladdens, and thus we read of “the oil of joy” (Isa. 61:3): the heart is exhilarated when grace is active. It is an aid to digestion; so, only as grace is active within us, can we assimilate our spiritual food.

Oil and water will not intermingle: the old man is not bettered by the new, nor is the new corrupted by the old. Oil cannot be made to sink beneath the water, but always floats on top; so grace in the believer is indestructible, and at the end it will be seen to have fully triumphed over sin. Oil is a super-eminent liquid, for it will not incorporate itself with anything lighter; it will have the highest place above all other liquids. So the graces of the Spirit are of a superior character.as far above the gifts of nature as spiritual blessings excel earthly things. Oil quietens troubled waters, giving relief to a ship in a storm: so grace often subdues the turbulent workings of sin. What a blessed promise is that in Psalm 92:10, “But my horn shalt Thou exalt like the horn of an unicorn: I shall be anointed with fresh oil”: new supplies of grace, blessed revivings are granted God’s tried people. Yes, there is “oil in the dwellings of the wise”.virgins (Prov. 21:20. The Lord be pleased to add His blessing to this little meditation.

N.B. This short article is not designed for the searching and exposing of empty professors, but for the establishing and comforting of “the living in Jerusalem.” If the latter will prayerfully re-read its paragraphs and honestly measure themselves by their contents, they should be able to “prove” themselves (2 Cor. 13:5). It is not the absence of sin, nor the decreasing of its power within, which evidences regeneration, but the presence of a contrary and holy principle, which is known by its spiritual longings and efforts.

Oil in the Vessel
by Arthur W. Pink

Recently a brother in the Lord wrote calling our attention to the comparisons and contrasts between the wise and foolish virgins of Matthew 25. The substance of his remarks was as follows. They have seven things in common. First, all the virgins were in “the kingdom of heaven”: by which we understand, the sphere of Christian profession. Second, they were all of them “virgins”: not five virgins and five harlots: by which we understand, they all claimed to belong unto Christ. Third, they all “went forth to meet the Bridegroom”: they were one in purpose, having a single end in view. Fourth, they all had “lamps,” the same sort of lamps. Fifth, they all “slumbered and slept.” Sixth, they all heard the cry “Behold, the Bridegroom cometh.” Seventh, they all “arose and trimmed their lamps.”

There are six points of difference between them. First, five of them were “wise” and five of them were “foolish.” Second, the wise “took oil in their vessels with their lamps” (v. 4), but the foolish ones did not do so. Third, at the crucial moment the foolish virgins had to acknowledge “our lamps are (slowly but surely) gone out” (v. 8 margin). Fourth, the foolish virgins “went to buy” oil (v. 10), the wise ones had no need to do so. Fifth, the wise were shut in with the Bridegroom, but the foolish were shut out (v. 10.) Sixth, the foolish virgins were disowned by the Lord (vv. 11, 12).

Commenting upon the above our friend pointed out that, “There is a certain class today who differ not from the children of God as to their testimony: its purity, its orthodoxy, its sincerity. These are not Spiritists, Russellites, or the daughters of the Mother of Harlots, but ‘virgins’.doctrinally they are pure. They are pictured as going forth ‘to meet the Bridegroom,’ not one to the ‘desert’ and another to the ‘secret chambers’ (Matt. 24:26), seeking a false Christ. The Object of their service was the same Person which the wise virgins were occupied with. The vital point in their ‘foolishness’ was not that they ‘slumbered and slept’ but that they had no oil in their VESSELS. Their was oil in their ‘lamps’.the testimony or doctrine.but none in their vessels or souls.”

The above has deeply impressed the editor once more with the great importance of making sure individually whether there be oil in my vessel: the “vessel” is the soul, the “oil” is Divine grace in it. Whatever may be the precise signification of “behold the Bridegroom cometh”.whether it refer to the hour of death, the “premillennial return of Christ,” or the Day of Judgment.one thing is clear: it points to the crucial testing time. As our friend further points out: Balaam had oil in his “lamp,” as also had Judas when Christ sent him forth with the other Apostles to “preach” (Matt. 10:5-7), yet their hearts were destitute of the saving grace of God! What a terrible discovery for the foolish virgins to make: “our lamps are gone out”.a discovery made too late to do them any good.

This parable of the “virgins” is indeed a searching and solemn one. It has deeply exercised many a sincere soul. It has caused not a few genuine saints to wonder if, after all, the “root of the matter” were in them. It has given real point to that exhortation “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves” (2 Cor. 13:5). On the other hand, vast numbers of professing Christians are quite unmoved by its pointed message, complacently assuming that they are numbered among the “wise” virgins, and taking no trouble to seek proof that the oil is in their vessels. Strangest of all, perhaps, some of the Lord’s own people scarcely know how to set about the task of ascertaining their state, and are so suspicious of themselves they readily conclude that their vessels are devoid of the vital oil.

The key passage for the significance of this Scriptural figure is, “Thy God hath anointed Thee with the oil of gladness above Thy fellows” (Psa. 45:7), where the reference is to the Mediator, for God “giveth not the Spirit by measure unto Him” (John 3:34); in consequence thereof, He is “fairer than the children of men: grace is poured into Thy lips” (Psa. 45:2). The holy “oil” was first poured upon the antitypical Aaron, and then it runs down to all the “skirts of His garments” (Psa. 133:2), that is, to the meanest and feeblest Christians. Just as the little finger or toe is animated by the same life and vitality as actuates the head and heart of a person, so every Christian is vitalized by the same Spirit as was given to Christ, the Head. As the Spirit sanctified the human nature of Christ by fitting and enriching it with all grace, so His grace is communicated to all His members.

The “oil,” then, in the vessels of the wise virgins refers to the life of the Spirit in the soul of a Christian. It is the presence of Divine grace in the heart.in contrast from knowledge in the head or correctness of outward deportment.which distinguishes the actual possessor from the empty professor. How important then is it that we spare no efforts to ascertain whether or not that Divine grace resides in us! Yet at this very point Christians encounter a real difficulty: as they honestly and diligently look within they perceive such a sea of corruption, ever casting up mire and dirt, they are greatly distressed, and ready to conclude that Divine grace surely cannot be present in such hearts as theirs. But this is a serious mistake; as genuine oil is distinguishable from counterfeits by its properties, so grace in the soul may be known by its characteristics and effects.

But the exercised soul should begin his search for indwelling grace with it definitely settled in his mind, that, in every heart where grace resides there is also an ocean of sin; and just as oil and water will not mix, but continue to preserve their distinct properties even when placed together in the same vessel, so the flesh and spirit will not combine in the Christian, but remain in opposition to each other unto the end. Admitting, then, a sea of depravity within, my object is to find out if there be any “oil” at all which the surgings of sin are unable to destroy. When I see smoke, I must infer fire (however flickering), and if I can discern in my heart any spiritual grace (however feeble) I must infer the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

Be not unduly discouraged, then, dear Christian friend, because you discover so much filthy water in your “vessel” (the editor does the same), but rather confine your attention unto searching for the “oil” within you, and remember that the presence of the same is to be determined by its properties and effects. Let us name a few of these. First, oil illumines, therefore are the blinded Laodiceans bidden to go to Christ for eyesalve (anointing oil) that they may see (Rev. 3:18). Now where Divine grace has been bestowed that soul is enlightened. True, says a serious reader, but the point which exercises me so much is, Is my enlightenment a spiritual and supernatural one, or merely a natural and intellectual one, acquired by the mind being instructed through sitting under sound teaching? Those mentioned in Hebrews 6:4 were “once enlightened,” yet no saving work of grace had been wrought in them!

All Of God’s Commandments Are For Our Good

Zac Poonen

God has always required obedience from man. Under the old
covenant, the Israelites were given commandments to obey.
But they discovered that they could not keep God’s laws
perfectly.

Under the new covenant, God promises to write His laws in
our hearts and minds so that we will not only obey Him but
love to obey Him. God’s promise is: “I will put My Spirit
within you and cause you to walk in My statutes, and you
will be careful to observe My ordinances.”(Ezek. 36:27)

It is only through obeying His commandments that we can have
fellowship with God.

Obedience however is something that many believers have not
understood. Most believers have so misunderstood ‘grace’
that they consider obedience to be an Old Covenant
requirement. God’s commandments, as a result, are considered
to be a heavy burden. This is a Satanic deception. It is the
result of an ignorance of God’s love. All of God’s
commandments are for our good and are meant to set us free.
They all originate in the heart of a God Who loves us
perfectly.

Moses says (concerning God giving His laws to Israel at
Sinai), “At God’s right hand there was a fiery law for His
people - indeed (this proves that) He loves His people”
(Deut.33:2,3 - margin). The fact that God gives us His laws
is a proof of His intense love for us.

Some of God’s commandments may require self-denial on our
part. But in the long run we will discover that they are for
our very best. A father doesn’t give commands to his
children to burden them or harm them - but only to help
them. This is how we need to see the commands that God gives
us too. To have faith is to believe in a God Who is perfect
in love. When we have such faith, we will delight to do
God’s commandments, at any cost.

Here lies the reason for so much of our defeat. The Devil
has convinced people that God’s commandments are either
unnecessary, or a burden. If we don’t understand why God
calls us to do something, that only proves our own
immaturity. One day, when we are a little more mature, we
will understand.

When children are compelled to go to school, they may not
understand why their parents won’t allow them to stay at
home and play. They may think their parents are being very
hard towards them. But it is love that makes those parents
compel their children to get an education.

Like those little children, we too don’t often understand
God’s ways. But if we believed in His love, we would obey
all His Word and submit to all His dealings, without any
question.

Consider the matter of suffering. Why does a God of love
allow us to go through suffering? That’s because suffering
is a part of the syllabus in our spiritual education. It is
through suffering that God leads us on to maturity. If you
have not had much opportunity to suffer, you certainly could
not have learnt much in life that has any spiritual value.

Perhaps you grumbled and complained so much the last time
you had a little suffering, that God now allows you to go
your own way. That is sad, when God puts you on the shelf
like that. I’d rather go through suffering every day of my
life than be set aside by God on a shelf.

It is foolish to compare ourselves with others, when God
leads us through suffering. That would be like your children
wondering why they have to go to school when the poor
children in the slums can play in the mud all day. All of
God’s dealings with us are in perfect love. He wants us to
be happy - not with the superficial, frothy happiness of the
world, but with that deep, everlasting happiness that comes
through holiness of life. And there is just no way to be
holy except through suffering.

“He disciplines us for our good, that we may share His
holiness.”(Heb.12:10).

Jesus was the happiest man Who ever walked on this earth.
Yet He was the One Who suffered the most. His happiness came
out of doing the will of His Father - not by having an easy
way through life. He knew His Father as perfect love and so
He joyfully submitted to all that the Father sent His way.
That was the secret of His life.
------------------------------------------------------------

Satan's workshop!

(J. A. James, speaking of the power of the press in 1848)

"I don't want Satan to outwit us. After all, we are not
 ignorant about Satan's scheming." 2 Corinthians 2:11

The press has a great power for evil. Infidel and immoral
writers are pouring forth a deluge of skepticism and vice,
which are depositing a pernicious and pestiferous slime
over the minds of the people.

Let it be imagined, if imagined it can be, what must be
the state of multitudes in this country, when millions of
pestiferous publications are annually going out among
the masses of our population. Let the minds of all
Christian people dwell upon . . .
  the insult offered to God,
  the ruin brought upon souls,
  the injury done to morals, and
  the mischief perpetrated in the nation,
by such a state of things!

These ungodly publications originate from Satan's
workshop, and reflect the scenes of that dreadful
laboratory of mental poison! These authors, printers,
publishers, booksellers, vendors, by myriads, are all
busy and indefatigable--to do what?
To destroy the Bible,
to corrupt the mind,
to pull down the cross,
to dethrone God,
to subvert true religion,
to turn man into a speaking brute,
to overturn all morality,
to poison the springs of domestic happiness,
to dissolve the ties of social order,
to involve our country in ruin!

Satan, and all his emissaries upon earth,
are in earnest in ruining men's souls!

We have an evil to contend with--
  so gigantic in its strength,
  so diffused in its influence all around us,
  so infectious and malignant in its effects!

The enemy is coming in like a flood!

Infidelity and immorality are invading us!

The alarm bell must be rung!

(Editor's note. In 1848, when J. A. James wrote this
 article, the press was the only media available. What
 would he say today, with the deluge ungodly media
 from Satan's workshop pouring into Christian
 homes and minds!)
 

Gossip, The Devil’s Mailbag
Rev. William Chapman

Week Used:
Read goals and guidelines.

Soul-winner’s Report: Tell of the some good things that are happening with your personal evangelism.  (*Personal evangelism is your personal soul winning effort)

ICEBREAKER:  What is your favorite thing to talk about?

WORSHIP:

EDIFICATION:  Read James 3:2-12 and Luke 6:45.

An old Welsh proverb reads, “Lord, remind us that a gossip’s mouth is the devil’s mailbag”.  The apostle James warned us in chapter 3 and verse 8 that the tongue is unruly and full of deadly poison.  He saw first hand what lies and gossip can do to a person when first he saw Jesus crucified and then some of his own fellow apostles tortured and killed.  It doesn’t take long before a rumor, spread by gossip, kindles a kind of wild fire that quickly goes out of control.  Churches have been split, families have been splintered and lives ruined all because of gossip.  It is the devil’s plan to disrupt and destroy all of the work of God he can and one of his favorite tools is gossip.  The next time you hear some juicy tidbit about someone why don’t you remember the little Welsh proverb and refuse to let your mouth be “The Devil’s Mailbag”.
Discussion:

Have you ever had some gossip spread on you?  How did it make you feel?

Read Lev. 19:16 and Luke 6:45.  After reading these two scriptures discuss what God’s opinion is of gossip and the gossiper.

Read Proverbs 18:8, 26:20-22.  The term “innermost Belly” is referring to the soul of a man or woman. 
When an individual is involved in the sin of gossip, they are actually taking part in damaging the very soul of a person.  Discuss how and why ones soul can be wounded by gossip.  (*Gossip, true or untrue, is humiliating and degrading. Individuals who have suffered humiliation will withdraw into themselves in order to avoid facing people and later become bitter.)

Proverb 16:28 and 17:9 refers to gossip between friends.  How does gossip ruin friendships and how can a friendship be healed after a soul has been wounded by gossip?

Gossip destroys!  Have you been involved with the sin of gossip?  Has a friend or a brother or sister been hurt because of what you have said?  As soon as possible let the healing begin by humbling yourself toward God and that friend and asking for forgiveness.  Pray now and ask our Lord Jesus Christ for grace and strength to do what you must.
 

Nine Tests Every Christian Must Face
Rev. Michael Wiltcher

Lesson 9-
The Servant Test

1 Kings 19:19 (NLT)
So Elijah went and found Elisha son of Shaphat plowing a field with a team of oxen. There were eleven teams of oxen ahead of him, and he was plowing with the twelfth team. Elijah went over to him and threw his cloak across his shoulders and walked away again.
1 Kings 19:20 (NLT)
Elisha left the oxen standing there, ran after Elijah, and said to him, "First let me go and kiss my father and mother good-bye, and then I will go with you!"
Elijah replied, "Go on back! But consider what I have done to you.“
1 Kings 19:21 (NLT)
Elisha then returned to his oxen, killed them, and used the wood from the plow to build a fire to roast their flesh. He passed around the meat to the other plowmen, and they all ate. Then he went with Elijah as his assistant.
2 Kings 3:11 (NLT)
But King Jehoshaphat of Judah asked, "Is there no prophet of the Lord with us? If there is, we can ask the Lord what to do."
One of King Joram's officers replied, "Elisha son of Shaphat is here. He used to be Elijah's personal assistant.“
2 Kings 3:11 (KJV)
But Jehoshaphat said, Is there not here a prophet of the Lord, that we may enquire of the Lord by him? And one of the king of Israel's servants answered and said, Here is Elisha the son of Shaphat, which poured water on the hands of Elijah.

Servant is defined as a person, male or female, that attends another for the purpose of performing menial offices for him and is subject to his command.
There are many who wish to serve God…but only in an ADVISORY position.

There are seven demands upon a servant:

1.) A surrender of FREEDOM

Luke 17:10 In the same way, when you have done all the things which are given you to do, say, There is no profit in us, for we have only done what we were ordered to do.

2.) A surrender of TIME

Luke 17:7 If your servant comes in from plowing or from taking care of the sheep, would you say, "Welcome! Come on in and have something to eat"?
Luke 17:8 No, you wouldn't say that. You would say, "Fix me something to eat. Get ready to serve me, so I can have my meal. Then later on you can eat and drink."

3.) A surrender of AUTHORITY

Luke 7:8 For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.

4.) A surrender of EGO

John 13:4 He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself.
John 13:5 After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded.
John 13:14 If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet.
John 13:15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.

5.) A surrender of PREFERENCES

Mat 26:39 Jesus walked on a little way. Then he knelt with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, don't make me suffer by having me drink from this cup. But do what you want, and not what I want."

6.) A surrender of PURPOSE

Mark 10:43 But so shall it not be among you: but whosoever will be great among you, shall be your minister:
Mark 10:44 And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all.

7.) A surrender of RESOURCES

Mat 25:16 Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.
Mat 25:17 And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two.
Mat 25:18 But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.

 

Servanthood is inevitable if you are to be effective in the kingdom of God.
Mat 20:26 Let it not be so among you: but if anyone has a desire to become great among you, let him be your servant;
Mat 20:27 And whoever has a desire to be first among you, let him take the lowest place:
Mat 20:28 Even as the Son of man did not come to have servants, but to be a servant, and to give his life for the salvation of men.

Servitude will come before honor
• Joseph serves Potiphar
• Joshua serves Moses
• Samuel serves Eli
• David serves Saul
• Elisha serves Elijah
• Timothy serves Paul
• John Mark serves Simon Peter


 

Twelve Attitudes of a servant:

1.) A servant is TEACHABLE

3Jo 1:9 I wrote to the church. But Diotrephes likes to be the number-one leader, and he won't pay any attention to us.

2.) A servant is SUBMISSIVE

Mat 26:39 And he went forward a little, and falling down on his face in prayer, he said, O my Father, if it is possible, let this cup go from me; but let not my pleasure, but yours be done.

3.) A servant is PATIENT

2Ti 2:24 (CEV) and God's servants must not be troublemakers. They must be kind to everyone, and they must be good teachers and very patient.

4.) A servant is DILIGENT

Matthew 24:46-47 (NLT) If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward. [47] I assure you, the master will put that servant in charge of all he owns.
Matthew 24:48-50 (NLT) But if the servant is evil and thinks, 'My master won't be back for a while,' [49] and begins oppressing the other servants, partying, and getting drunk— [50] well, the master will return unannounced and unexpected.
Matthew 24:51 (NLT) He will tear the servant apart and banish him with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

5.) A servant is PRODUCTIVE

Matthew 25:29-30 (NLT) To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who are unfaithful, even what little they have will be taken away. [30] Now throw this useless servant into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

6.) A servant is LOYAL

Luke 16:13 (BBE) No man may be a servant to two masters: for he will have hate for the one and love for the other; or he will keep to the one and have no respect for the other. You may not be servants of God and of wealth.

7.) A servant has INTEGRITY

Galatians 1:10 (NLT) Obviously, I'm not trying to be a people pleaser! No, I am trying to please God. If I were still trying to please people, I would not be Christ's servant.

8.) A servant is SELFLESS

Act 20:24 But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God

9.) A servant is PROFITABLE

1Co 9:19 For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more.

10.) A servant is TRUSTWORTHY

Rev 17:14 These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.

Faithful in the Greek is pistos which means TRUSTWORTHY

11.) A servant is FOCUSED

1Co 7:35 And this I speak for your own profit, not that I may cast a snare on you, but for that which is right, and that you may attend on the Lord without distraction.

12.) A servant is PREPARED

Luke 12:47 And the servant who had knowledge of his lord's desires and was not ready for him and did not do as he was ordered, will be given a great number of blows;

A servant is FERVENT

Rom 12:11 not lagging in diligence, boiling [fig., being fervent] in your spirit [or, in the Spirit], serving as a slave to the Lord,

Elisha’s Legacy
Chosen
Anointed
Obedient
Sacrificial
Servant
Patient

2Kings 6:12 And one of his servants said, None, my lord, O king: but Elisha, the prophet that is in Israel, telleth the king of Israel the words that thou speakest in thy bedchamber.
2Kings 4:27 And when she came to the man of God to the hill, she caught him by the feet: but Gehazi came near to thrust her away. And the man of God said, Let her alone; for her soul is vexed within her: and the LORD hath hid it from me, and hath not told me.

After Elisha’s death—his legacy continues

2Kings 13:21 And it came to pass, as they were burying a man, that, behold, they spied a band of men; and they cast the man into the sepulchre of Elisha: and when the man was let down, and touched the bones of Elisha, he revived, and stood up on his feet.


The words we want to hear from Christ:

Mat 25:23 His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

God tests us to see if we have a servant’s heart, or demand that we be served.

The last lesson Christ taught to His disciples before Calvary was about being a servant. He used a towel and a pan of water to show who would be the greatest in His kingdom

We will be judged upon how we served.

We all long to hear, "Well done, thou good and faithful SERVANT"
What we hear depends upon how we do with the Servant Test.