Day by Day

[Soldier4Christ]

"WHO WAS THAT MASKED MAN? WOMAN?"

Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. Matthew 7:15

There were two things you could count on when you watched an episode of “The Lone Ranger.” First, you could be sure that at the beginning of the program some misguided citizen would think the masked man was an outlaw. The second thing you could be sure of was some admiring soul at the end of the program wondering, “Who was that masked man, anyway?”

Every episode of the “Lone Ranger” capitalized on the idea that people aren’t always who or what they seem to be.

According to a story filed by Reuters last week, this was the case in Sarajevo when two Muslim women dressed in burqas (head-to-toe black dresses and veils) entered a small bank.

Women dressed according to Islamic code are not an unusual sight in that city. The “unusual” happened when the women took out guns, pointed them at the customers, and made them lie down on the bank floor. The unusual happened again when the women began to talk, and it became obvious that they weren’t women at all. The cross-dressing men cleaned out the tills and managed to get away with $40,000.

It all goes to show that people aren’t always what they seem to be.

That was the message of the Savior when He talked to His disciples about false prophets. Jesus warned His followers to be aware of Satan’s representatives who would look good but who would not BE good. “Wolves in sheep’s skins” is what Jesus called them.

Of course, Christians might wonder just how we can identify these false prophets. Jesus tells us. “You will recognize them by their fruits.” By inspiration of the Holy Spirit, St. Paul in the book of Galatians (1:9) defines what these “false fruits” are. He said, “As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.”

Fake sheep have a false message of salvation, and we need to be on guard.

[Soldier4Christ]

"Stumbling Over the Savior"

But we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles. 1 Corinthians 1:23

Years ago, an executive from a soap company and a pastor were walking down the street. They were to attend a meeting where they would be honored by their city for their contributions. With a snide sort of smirk, the soap manufacturer said, “Reverend, you know when you get down to it, the Gospel hasn’t done that much good, has it? There is still a whole lot of wickedness in the world with a whole lot of wicked people doing that wickedness, too!”

The pastor was quiet—not because he had nothing to say, but because he wanted to say his piece in the right way. Soon they passed a child who was making mud pies. The boy’s hands were dirty; his face was dirty; his clothes were dirty. Realizing the opportunity, the pastor said, “You know, I see that soap hasn’t done much good in the world. There is still a whole lot of dirt and a whole lot of dirty people are still playing in it.” The executive rose up in defense and replied, “But soap is only useful when it’s used.” And the pastor said, “So it is with the Gospel of Jesus.”

I don’t know what stumbling blocks Satan has placed before you. I can, however, describe what is happening in your life. See if this doesn’t fit: Things haven’t turned out like you thought they would. Your happiness is scarred by stress and sorrow. Your dreams are darkened. You have tried as hard as possible to be a compassionate and concerned individual, a faithful family member, a loyal employee, a responsible and reliable citizen. You’ve tried, but it hasn’t worked out right. If that describes your life, then I have good news: Jesus Christ, came into this world to save sinners. He sends His Spirit to call us; He gives us Baptism to wash us; He shed His blood to save us.

It’s just that simple. God has a cure for what ails you. His is the cure that will change your life. Have you been lonely? There is nowhere you can go where you can ever be separated from the love of God, which comes to you in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:35-39). Have people let you down? Jesus will always lift you up (James 4:10). Has your life been a fiasco of foolishness? Jesus has come so you might have life, and have it to the full (John 10:10). And that is not a stumbling block to trip you up. It’s God’s stepping-stone to lift you up.

[Def]

"Absolutely"

I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of My hand. My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of My Father's hand. John 10:28-30

At the top of the 1,000-foot mountainous peaks of Meteora, Greece, monasteries were built hundreds of years ago. Because of their impossible location, these monasteries became places of solitude, safety, and security. Up until the last century, goods, and the most rare of individuals—visitors—had to be winched up in a basket hand-powered by the monks. Those who made the ascent found the ride a terrifying experience. One of these tourists, recording his adventure, admitted to getting nervous about halfway up the cliff. That’s when he noticed that the rope seemed old and frayed. Thinking he might relieve his fear, at least somewhat, he asked one of the brothers riding with him, “How often do you change the rope?" Without a moment’s hesitation, the reply came back, "Whenever it breaks!" The traveler’s fear didn’t disappear.

All of us reading this devotion understand fear, don’t we? The devoted dad, the loving mom, the successful salesman, the brilliant banker, the faithful farmer, the diligent doctor, every person, at every age, in every occupation, in almost every situation, has experienced fear. There is nothing that seems to be unconditionally secure, unreservedly safe, unalterably solid. Peel away our fake facades and bold bravados and you will see cringing, cowering children who on the inside are shouting, “I'm scared to death.”

If that describes your outlook on life, hear the words of Jesus: “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of My hand.” You can trust those words to be true. So you could be free of fear, Jesus sacrificed Himself. Although He was innocent, He allowed Himself to be nailed to the cross. He did not curse those who crucified Him; instead He forgave them, as He has all of us, for our sins. He died so that you might live free from fear. You can trust Him.

Please, do not think for a moment that Jesus' compassion and care have been weakened by the passing of centuries. I have seen Him comfort parents who have lost children, bring peace to widows and widowers, and bring hope to those with terminal illnesses. Believe His words to be true. No one, nothing, can take believers from the security of His nail-pierced hands.

Pastor Roger.how can I come out of my computer and go and kiss you..John 10:28-30..Pastor Roger you just filled my heart with so much gentleness thank you..Def

[Def]

"Stumbling Over the Savior"

But we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles. 1 Corinthians 1:23

Years ago, an executive from a soap company and a pastor were walking down the street. They were to attend a meeting where they would be honored by their city for their contributions. With a snide sort of smirk, the soap manufacturer said, “Reverend, you know when you get down to it, the Gospel hasn’t done that much good, has it? There is still a whole lot of wickedness in the world with a whole lot of wicked people doing that wickedness, too!”

The pastor was quiet—not because he had nothing to say, but because he wanted to say his piece in the right way. Soon they passed a child who was making mud pies. The boy’s hands were dirty; his face was dirty; his clothes were dirty. Realizing the opportunity, the pastor said, “You know, I see that soap hasn’t done much good in the world. There is still a whole lot of dirt and a whole lot of dirty people are still playing in it.” The executive rose up in defense and replied, “But soap is only useful when it’s used.” And the pastor said, “So it is with the Gospel of Jesus.”

I don’t know what stumbling blocks Satan has placed before you. I can, however, describe what is happening in your life. See if this doesn’t fit: Things haven’t turned out like you thought they would. Your happiness is scarred by stress and sorrow. Your dreams are darkened. You have tried as hard as possible to be a compassionate and concerned individual, a faithful family member, a loyal employee, a responsible and reliable citizen. You’ve tried, but it hasn’t worked out right. If that describes your life, then I have good news: Jesus Christ, came into this world to save sinners. He sends His Spirit to call us; He gives us Baptism to wash us; He shed His blood to save us.

It’s just that simple. God has a cure for what ails you. His is the cure that will change your life. Have you been lonely? There is nowhere you can go where you can ever be separated from the love of God, which comes to you in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:35-39). Have people let you down? Jesus will always lift you up (James 4:10). Has your life been a fiasco of foolishness? Jesus has come so you might have life, and have it to the full (John 10:10). And that is not a stumbling block to trip you up. It’s God’s stepping-stone to lift you up.

Pastor Roger.well when you get tire of me, let me know ok `.I am  a soldier of the cross and i only boast about the glory and power of the cross at the foot of the cross is where i found Him. and that is where i will stay till He comes and pick up His Bride that`s me, and present me to His Father ..love in Jesus..DEF

[Soldier4Christ]

Get tired of you??!! Never, sister. The light of the Lord shines forth from you even in your writings.

[Def]

Get tired of you??!! Never, sister. The light of the Lord shines forth from you even in your writings.

Pastor Roger please i am not worthy of this commet, i am just fighting the good fight of Faith i bite in it like a pit bull, but thank you ,you have silence my soul, O Jesus sweet Jesus bring it all to God oh please Jesus give Him all..love in Jesus Def...I must go cry now..

[Soldier4Christ]

"Not Just A Parable"

Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. Luke 10:31-32

Think back to the first time you heard the story of the Good Samaritan. Do you remember how sad you felt for the man who had been beaten, and how angry you were with the Priest and Levite who passed by?

Jesus’ parable is not just a story. Not anymore. Not after what happened on June 23rd to LaShanda Calloway in Wichita, Kansas. Security cameras at a convenience store tell her story. They show LaShanda in an argument with another shopper, being stabbed, and then five people stepping over her bleeding body.

You may rightly wonder, “After five people stepped over and around LaShanda, who is the person who played the part of the “Good Samaritan?” The store’s surveillance cameras reveal that one of the spectators did stop but not to offer any assistance, compassion, or aid. The person stopped just long enough to take a picture of LaShanda with their cell phone.

There is no “Good Samaritan” in LaShanda’s story.

There was no one who felt compelled to help her. There was no one to pour olive oil on her wounds and apply a bandage to stop the bleeding. There was no one to take her to the hospital and no one willing to pay the bill for her recovery.

LaShanda had no Good Samaritan. She was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

I have to believe that none of the five who passed by LaShanda that day were Christians. I have to believe that any follower of Jesus would have used their cell phone to call the police or an ambulance, rather than taking a picture of the dying woman. I believe these things because I am convinced that anyone who has been saved by Jesus will do all they can to reflect the Savior’s love to those around them who are hurting.

Understand that “doing all you can” doesn’t mean we have to turn off our brains when we render assistance to some unfortunate. “Doing all you can” doesn’t mean we are compelled to put ourselves into danger when we’re offering our help. But, “doing all you can” does mean God’s people think smart, do what is right, and don't pass by on the other side.

[Def]

"Not Just A Parable"

Now by chance a priest was going down that road, and when he saw him he passed by on the other side. So likewise a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. Luke 10:31-32

Think back to the first time you heard the story of the Good Samaritan. Do you remember how sad you felt for the man who had been beaten, and how angry you were with the Priest and Levite who passed by?

Jesus’ parable is not just a story. Not anymore. Not after what happened on June 23rd to LaShanda Calloway in Wichita, Kansas. Security cameras at a convenience store tell her story. They show LaShanda in an argument with another shopper, being stabbed, and then five people stepping over her bleeding body.

You may rightly wonder, “After five people stepped over and around LaShanda, who is the person who played the part of the “Good Samaritan?” The store’s surveillance cameras reveal that one of the spectators did stop but not to offer any assistance, compassion, or aid. The person stopped just long enough to take a picture of LaShanda with their cell phone.

There is no “Good Samaritan” in LaShanda’s story.

There was no one who felt compelled to help her. There was no one to pour olive oil on her wounds and apply a bandage to stop the bleeding. There was no one to take her to the hospital and no one willing to pay the bill for her recovery.

LaShanda had no Good Samaritan. She was pronounced dead at a local hospital.

I have to believe that none of the five who passed by LaShanda that day were Christians. I have to believe that any follower of Jesus would have used their cell phone to call the police or an ambulance, rather than taking a picture of the dying woman. I believe these things because I am convinced that anyone who has been saved by Jesus will do all they can to reflect the Savior’s love to those around them who are hurting.

Understand that “doing all you can” doesn’t mean we have to turn off our brains when we render assistance to some unfortunate. “Doing all you can” doesn’t mean we are compelled to put ourselves into danger when we’re offering our help. But, “doing all you can” does mean God’s people think smart, do what is right, and don't pass by on the other side.

good evening Pastor Roger.what a story to meditate on.who"LaShanda" where public place "how stabbed" why argument ...OK  now there is no reason why someone should not have interferered throw a box holler, wheel a basket to separate them .but there is a passage in proverb that talk about that  OK.in some form as i go to bed now i will look it up and let you know tomorrow what  i reason with but no way would i have left her there i would have wheel her in myself on my chair and then see what we can do but i am sure i would of SCREAM Jesus name and Pompom would have done a lot of barking.. good night every body, i love you in Jesus always in His loving arms lets give a group hug...Def +petit pompom

[Def]

good evening Pastor Roger.what a story to meditate on.who"LaShanda" where public place "how stabbed" why argument ...OK  now there is no reason why someone should not have interferered throw a box holler, wheel a basket to separate them .but there is a passage in proverb that talk about that  OK.in some form as i go to bed now i will look it up and let you know tomorrow what  i reason with but no way would i have left her there i would have wheel her in myself on my chair and then see what we can do but i am sure i would of SCREAM Jesus name and Pompom would have done a lot of barking.. good night every body, i love you in Jesus always in His loving arms lets give a group hug...Def +petit pompom

to eache and every one of you a personal embrace from Jesus and me.

[Soldier4Christ]

"This Is What It Will Take"

July 15, 2007

'No, father Abraham,' he said, 'but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.' Luke 16:30

I have been told, although I can’t prove it, that after a Christian evangelism crusade in Australia, a lady sent a letter to the editor of a Melbourne newspaper. This is what I was told she said: “I am heartily sick of the type of religion that insists my soul (and everyone else’s) needs saving—whatever that means. I have never felt that I was lost, nor do I feel that I wallow in the mire of sin … Give me practical religion that teaches gentleness and kindness and acknowledges no barriers of color or creed, that remembers the aged, and teaches children about goodness and not about sin. If, in order to save my soul, I must accept such a philosophy as I have recently heard preached, I prefer to remain forever damned.”

When I first heard those words, especially the last sentence, I debated whether this person was extraordinarily foolish or just hadn’t spent any time thinking about what she was writing. I couldn’t believe she had spent any time considering the eternal impact of her words! With one sentence, she had denied the seriousness of sin, denied the damnation which is a direct consequence of disbelief, and minimized the redemption for which Christ had come. Her creed for salvation was: "I'm pretty good and God should be pretty glad." I doubt if she would change her mind, even if someone came back from the dead.

That’s a thought, isn’t it? Whose word about the afterlife would be more impressive than someone who came back from the dead? Which, of course, is exactly what God has done. So that all vestige of doubt might be removed, God has brought back from the dead His own Son, Jesus. Crucified on the cross of Calvary, His heart pierced by a Roman spear, Jesus died. But Jesus also arose again to life. Three days after they placed Him in His tomb, He came out of that grave and showed to the doubters and deniers that their redemption was complete.

Since that day, the Christ has continued to reach out to those who, knowing their souls need saving, come to Him with a repentant heart. He has saved hundreds of millions who were lost and washed those who were mired by sin. I pray that you, unlike the woman from Australia, may know how much you need Him and rejoice in how much He has done for you.

[Def]

to eache and every one of you a personal embrace from Jesus and me.

Pastor Roger are you there.for i look up in Proverbs ( Idon`t have a concordance so I did a lots of reading but I like that it is good for me it refrshes the Word) you still want to hear what it say`s for Lashanda!?

[Soldier4Christ]

Hi Def,

You are most welcome to post it. I would like to see what you have.

[Def]

Hi Def,

You are most welcome to post it. I would like to see what you have.

Ok Pastor Roger there it goes
Proverbs,24:11-12
Deliver those who are being taken away to death,
And those who are staggering to slaughter, O hold THEM back.
If you say, " See, we did not know this,"
Does He not consider it who weighs the hearts?
And does He not know it who keeps your soul?
And will He not render to man according to his work?Pastor roger that was my findings "just like gold right and better!!well that is regarding to your story.God see everything right..I am tire now and must go ..good night every body all of you i bring to bed with me  God is in this room..good night

[Soldier4Christ]

Amen.

[Soldier4Christ]

"Do It Yourself"

In your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; incline your ear to me, and save me! Psalm 71:2

No question about it, people are creative. Creative people have brought us microwave ovens, the quarter-pounder-with-cheese, and the disposable razor blade. As of last week, there is a new product that comes to us from the mind of Anita Rachel Thomas, a most creative lady. The product is a “Do-It-Yourself-Break-Out-Of-Jail” kit. The kit consists of baby powder, cocoa butter, and lots of socks.

According to a report by CNN, Anita received mixed reviews to the field test of her product in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Wishing to escape from a local jail, Anita put on six pairs of socks, which enabled her to wiggle out of her leg irons. Then, she used the cocoa butter to grease up her arms and slide off her handcuffs. The final part of Rachel’s product was the baby powder that she threw into the face of the guard who was transporting her to court. Freed from cuffs, shackles, and the police, Anita made a mad dash for freedom.

Apparently, Anita’s creative mind wasn’t creative enough. She only went about two feet before the guard recaptured her.

There is no telling when Anita’s “do-it-yourself-jail-break” kit is going to be offered to the general public. In the foreseeable future, Anita’s creative mind will be dedicated to dealing with the new charges which have been filed against her: battery against a police officer and attempting to escape.

While it is true that some creative folks do manage to escape punishment, it is equally true that no one can escape punishment for their sins. The Psalmist was right when he said to God, “In Your righteousness deliver me and rescue me; incline Your ear to me and save me.” He knew that only God can free us from the shackles of sin and the horrors of hell.

The Heavenly Father sent His Son into this world so that we might be free from our punishment. Jesus offered Himself as our substitute, so that we might be released from condemnation. As Isaiah wrote, “He was wounded for our transgressions; He was crushed for our iniquities; upon Him was the chastisement that brought us peace, and with His stripes we are healed.” (53:5)

From the Lord’s creative mind and His gracious heart, we are forgiven and free.