GRACE AND THE TRUTH - DAILY INSPIRATIONAL 1

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~Daily Inspirational ~ "DEEPENED CHANNELS" MARCH 14, 2005


"DEEPENED CHANNELS"

"God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord" (1 Cor. 1:9)

We want fellowship with the Lord Jesus in His peace and joy, and naturally fear and seek to avoid suffering.  However, it is in the fellowship of His sufferings that we partake of His peace and joy.

"The Lord has a wonderful way of bringing us into the fellowship of His sufferings, even when everything outside looks prosperous.  Sometimes the most apparently prosperous lives have the deepest suffering at the back of them. The Lord must one way or another teach us fellowship with suffering, or we cannot be of much use. We dwell much upon the side of being filled with joy, but let us not forget there are broken hearts all around us, and if we are to be channels of divine comfort to them, we must learn something of the fellowship of His sufferings in our own experience."

"We shall err if we think that life in the Sanctuary, hidden with Christ in God, means freedom from suffering, sorrow, and trial. Rather will the soul be strengthened inwardly to be trusted more and more with the 'fellowship of His sufferings, becoming conformed unto His death' (Phil. 3:10)."

"Our Father can advance His children into conformity to the image of His Son, more by suffering in one day, then in many years of ease from trial."

"See how we call those who thus endured happy!  You have heard how patiently Job endured and have seen how the Lord finally blessed him, because the Lord is tenderhearted and merciful" ( James 5:11, Wms.).

By M. Stanford

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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~Daily Inspirational ~ "UNDER THE LAW OR IN CHRIST?" MARCH 15, 2005


"UNDER THE LAW OR IN CHRIST?"

READ ROMANS 5:12 TO 21.

In Romans 8:2 to 4 we read of the three great laws of the Bible:

1. The law of sin and death. 2. The law given at Sinai. 3. The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus.

Let us read Romans 5:18 - II Corinthians 3: 9 and John 3:18: "Therefore as by the offence of one (Adam) judgment came upon all men to CONDEMNATION; even so by the righteousness of one (Christ) the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life." "For if the ministration of CONDEMNATION be glory much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory." "He that believeth on Him (Christ) is not condemned: but he that believeth not is CONDEMNED already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God."

Here we learn that the people to whom Peter preached on the day of Pentecost were thrice condemned. 1. They were condemned in Adam. 2. They were condemned by the Ten Commandments. 3. They were condemned because they rejected Jesus Christ as Saviour.

In and by and through Adam the whole world is ruined and guilty before God, condemned, unrighteous. Alienated and dead in trespasses and sins. There is no hope for the worst or the best person who remains in Adam. By Adam sin entered death entered - death passed upon all men. (Romans 5:12). By Adam "the entrance of sin." The law entered by Moses that the offence that entered by Adam might abound (Romans 5:20). By the deeds of the law no flesh can be justified in God's sight. By the law (Moses) "the knowledge of sin." (Romans 3:19 and 20).

The law was Israel's schoolmaster to bring them to Christ that they might be justified by faith: and justified, they were no longer under the schoolmaster (the law). (Galatians 3:24 and 25). Members of Christ's Body are under grace; not under the law. (Romans 6:14).

Now hear the good news in Christ Jesus: "That the righteousness of the law might be fulfill led in us. who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit." (Romans 8:4). "That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord." (Romans 5:21). "Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this Man (Christ) is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: And by Him all that believe are justified from all things. from which ye could not be justified by the law of Moses." (Acts 13:38 and 39). Dwell on this blessed and glorious good news. The heathen to whom Paul preached were not under the law before they were saved by grace, and certainly not thereafter. (I Corinthians 9:20 to 25).

1. By Adam is the entrance of sin.  2. By Moses is the knowledge of sin. 3. By Christ Jesus is the forgiveness of sin.

Upon the human race, sin and death reign by Adam and Moses, the law of sin and death and the law of the Ten Commandments, the ministration of death. ordained unto death. (II Corinthians 3:7 and Romans 7:10).

But there is no condemnation to them who are in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:1), because of the efficacy, value and power of the law of life in Christ Jesus, in accordance with Romans 8:3 - John 10:17 and 18 and 28 - and II Timothy I:10.

'For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did: by the which we draw nigh unto God." (Hebrews 7:19). "What the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh". Christ did do. (Romans 8:3). "Now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ." (Ephesians 2:13). Which is better "in Christ" or "under the law"? (Romans 6:14)

By JCO

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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~Daily Inspirational ~THE KNOWLEDGE AND JOY OF SALVATION Part One MARCH 16 2005


THE KNOWLEDGE AND JOY OF SALVATION
Part One

Of course you know that once upon a time a man by the name of Jonah spent three days and three nights in the belly of a big fish. “Then Jonah prayed unto the Lord his God out of the fish’s belly.” “Salvation is of the Lord.” Jonah 2:1 and 10. Jonah was sure that no one but almighty God could save him from his awful predicament. “Salvation is of the Lord.”

The whole world today is full of trouble and sorrow. All men everywhere should agree with Paul’s statement or question, “hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?” O, that every human being would cry out with Jonah, “salvation is of the Lord.” Today how true are the words uttered more than nineteen hundred years ago, “a man can receive nothing except it be given him from heaven.” John 3:27. Every man on this earth should lift up his head to heaven and thank God for the truth of Romans 6:23, “the free gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” But he should do more than thank God. He should, by simple faith, receive that free gift by receiving the Lord Jesus as his own individual, personal Saviour. Hear the wonderful words of that Saviour, “And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, Whom Thou hast sent.” John 17:3.

Perhaps you have heard the testimony of the simple but wise lad after he had heard a gospel message on John 3:16, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoso, ever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” The lad thus summed it up: “God said it; Christ did it; I believe it; that settles it.”

We have undoubtedly been greatly impressed with the statement in Titus 1:2; “In hope of eternal life, which God that cannot lie, promised before the world began.” God cannot lie. Eternal life is God’s free gift for receivers. And of course with this profound and glorious Divine truth we link the good news of II Timothy 1:9 and 10: “God, Who hath saved us, and called us with a holy calling not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began; but is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, Who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and incorruptibility to light through the gospel.”

God calls sinners to trust and rest in Christ’s perfect work.

“For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one Mediator between God and men, The Man Christ Jesus Who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.” I Timothy 2:3 to 6.

Has any servant of the Lord testified this saving message to you? Perhaps you have heard it many times, but you have ignored or repudiated it. This is very good news for all men, women and children. As an ambassador of the Lord Jesus Christ, may I beseech you, persuade you, plead with you to hear this all-important truth, to consider it seriously and diligently, and to believe it for yourself even unto the saving of your precious soul? Surely it is one thing to know that Jesus Christ died on the cross of Calvary to be the Saviour of the world; but it is quite a different thing for you to know that He is your personal Saviour. Salvation is very personal. Are you saved? Will you believe this Divine truth, a message from the holy God in heaven to unholy, ungodly sinners on earth: “by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath be, foreordained that we should walk in them?” Ephesians 2:8 to 10. And note this blessed truth in the same chapter: “But now, in Christ Jesus, ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.” Ephesians 2:13.---J.C.O.

Continued March 17

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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~Daily Inspirational ~THE KNOWLEDGE AND JOY OF SALVATION Part Two MARCH 17 2005


THE KNOWLEDGE AND JOY OF SALVATION - Part Two

Almost every person will say, “I am a sinner.” But so few are sufficiently exercised concerning their precarious spiritual state to say, “I am a lost sinner.” God’s Word plainly states that no unrighteous man shall inherit the kingdom of God. The same Word plainly declares, “There is none righteous, no not one.” But over against this sad news God’s Word declares some good news for sinners; for God’s Word tells plainly how an unrighteous, lost sinner can be saved and become righteous.

We learn, in I Corinthians 1:30, that Jesus Christ is the believing sinner’s righteousness, holiness and redemption. We learn, in Ephesians 2:14, that Jesus Christ is the believer’s peace. We learn, in I Timothy 1:1, that Jesus Christ is the believer’s hope. We learn, in Colossians 3:3 and 4, that Jesus Christ is the believer’s life. We learn, in Colossians 2:10, that the believer is complete in Christ. We learn, in Ephesians 1:3, that the believer is blessed with all spiritual blessings in the heavenlies in Christ Jesus. We read, in Acts 13:39, that believers are justified from all things through Jesus Christ, the eternal Son of God. How wonderful to stand in the presence of the Holy God with all our sins pardoned, forever put away, and as though we had never committed one sin! This is good news; the gospel. This is the grace of God. This is what the precious shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ does for the guilty, condemned sinner when that sinner, by simple faith, receives the Lord Jesus Christ as his own personal Saviour.

In II Corinthians 5:21 we read that God made Jesus Christ, on the cross, to be sin for us; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him. We read, in Romans 4:4 and 5, that ungodly sinners can be justified by faith without working for salvation. Believers should abound in good works after they are saved by grace through faith in the good work of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. “With the heart man believeth unto righteousness.” Romans 10:9 and 10.

If righteousness could be gained by works or religion, then Christ died in vain. Galatians 2:21. For many centuries man, under the law, was a miserable failure. Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth. Romans 10:4. Last night I heard a very interesting conversation between two well-dressed, intelligent-looking men. Among other remarks, one said to the other, “I really believe religion is a good thing for a man, if he doesn’t get too much of it.” The other replied, “Not for me. Morality is a splendid thing; but I balk when it comes to religion.” Of course, the question that came to my mind was, “just how much religion is too much, or how much is too little, or how much is just right?” Then of course, my heart went out in sympathy and pity to both of them, a little bit more for the man who was satisfied with his own morality. He should read Isaiah 64:6 and Ezekiel 33:13 and Romans 3:19 and Romans 8:8 and Romans 4:4 and Romans 7:18 to 24. In these Scriptures we learn how utterly futile are man’s best endeavors and religious labors to even help to save him. When a lost sinner turns to religion, instead of to Christ, for pardon and salvation, he is twice dead, plucked up by the roots, and then he needs to be saved from religion as well as from sin. In Romans 3:24 to 26 we read that because of the redemptive work of the Lord Jesus Christ, Who was both God and man, God can be both just and merciful in His dealings with the believing sinner. He can be just and the justifier of the believer, and can declare him righteous without a cause, by His grace. God is a great Giver. Man is a poor receiver. Man is incurably religious, and Satan is accused of the crime of deceiving the whole world. He deceives the religious, unsaved man, causing him to believe that if he needs Christ at all, it is as a helper and a teacher, but not as the Saviour. Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice on the cross is man’s one and only hope. If we are to reach God’s heaven, we must come to God in God’s way, by Christ and Calvary.

It is well for every saved person to become identified with some group of believers and assemble regularly for worship and hear the Word of God expounded, but no one is saved by “joining the church.” Salvation is of the Lord; and by grace; the gift of God. Before God will accept a person’s work, that person must first be the workmanship of God. Ephesians 2:10.

Continued March 18

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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~Daily Inspirational THE KNOWLEDGE AND JOY OF SALVATION Part 3 MARCH 18, 2005



THE KNOWLEDGE AND JOY OF SALVATION - Part Three

Hear these two wonderful verses of Scripture:

“These things have I written unto you that believe on the Name of the Son of God, that ye may KNOW that ye have eternal life.” I John 5:13.

“Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13.

How sad to know that many conscientious, sincere religious people feel satisfied and secure, although they are headed for a Christless and hopeless eternity, because they have never been regenerated by faith in the crucified and resurrected Christ. Christ, by His own blood, entered once into heaven, having obtained eternal redemption for us. Hebrews 9:12. It was this Christ Who said, “marvel not that I said unto you, ye must be born again.” John 3:3 to 7.

It is likewise sad to know that there are many fearful saved people, who have not the assurance of their salvation. They are trusting in the finished work of the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation, but they doubt and fear because of the wrong interpretation of some Scripture or because they think they have to supplement the perfect work of Christ, or because they are depending upon their feelings. No person and no thing can ever separate the believer from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:38 and 39. Every believer should be careful to maintain good works and should know that Jesus Christ gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. Titus 3:14 and 2:14. But no believer should trust in himself for salvation, but in the glorified Christ, Who is able to save unto the uttermost all who come unto God, through Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them. Hebrews 7:25.

God cannot lie. God will have all men to be saved. God’s Word says, “believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” “These things have I written unto you that believe on the Name of the Son of God, that ye may KNOW.” God wants every believer to KNOW. “KNOW that he has eternal life.” That is why it is so important to know that we are living in God’s “grace” dispensation; that believers are saved by grace, and not by religion, nor by any mixture of religion with Christ and grace. If you are a believer, do not discredit or dishonor God by doubting. Endeavor each day, by God’s grace and power, to walk worthy of the calling wherewith you are called, and thus be, have as becometh saints. But keep in mind the truth that you are not saved by behaving. You are saved by believing. Then you are to behave, because you believe. So far as the adults on this earth are concerned, there are just two classes, “dead sinners” and “living saints.” When the dead sinner believes the gospel of grace he passes out of death into life and becomes a living saint.

If your trust is in the Lord Jesus Christ and you are relying upon Him and His redemptive work, say from your heart, with the lad, “God said it: Christ did it: I believe it: that settles it.”

Now, concerning the joy of salvation, let us think of the five F’s of salvation; The Fact; the Faith; the Fruit; the Feeling; the Future. The great fact is, that Jesus Christ, the God-man, obtained eternal redemption for us. This salvation is appropriated by faith. “By grace are ye saved, through faith.” The end of your faith is the salvation. of your soul. I Peter 1:9 to 12. Christ said, “herein is my Father glorified that ye bear much fruit.” John 15:8. Christians or saints are God’s workmanship created in Christ Jesus, unto good works which God before ordained that we should walk in them. Ephesians 2:10. Believers are told to rejoice because their names are written in heaven. They are to be filled with all joy and peace in believing. Then think of the glorious future, when Christ shall appear, we are going to appear with Him in glory. Colossians 3:3 and 4. So shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words. I Thessalonians 4:17 and 18. Surely believers have a glorious future; eternal bliss and eternal glory, with the eternal Lord. Believers are to be rewarded for their labor of love. Believers are to receive crowns. Their labor in the Lord is not in vain. I Corinthians 15:58 and I Corinthians 3:11 to 16. Surely we have a wonderful and glorious future. Note Ephesians 2:7; “That in the ages to come He might shew the exceeding riches of His grace, in His kindness toward us, through Christ Jesus.”

While we are waiting for God’s Son to come for us we are told to “rejoice in the Lord always . . . and the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4 to 7.

So we are to be filled with all joy and peace. How? In believing. Who is to fill us? The God of hope. The love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit Who is given unto us. Romans 5:1 to 5. By this indwelling Holy Spirit we are to abound in hope. We have a hope laid up in heaven. We are looking for that blessed hope, the glorious appearing of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Titus 2:13. He is our hope. He is our peace. We are to experience eternal joy, because we are in Christ Jesus, our Lord and Saviour

Surely you have decided that you will receive God’s free gift, eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

By J.C.O.

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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~Daily Inspirational ~ "CALVARY AND PENTECOST" MARCH 19, 2005


"CALVARY AND PENTECOST"

"But now that you have been set free from the tyranny of Sin, and have become the bond-servants of God, you have your reward in being made holy" (Romans 6:22, Wey.).

When the believer truly sees Calvary he says, "There, through the work of the Cross, I died with the Lord Jesus unto sin." When the believer truly sees Pentecost he says, "There, through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, I was baptized into the  Lord Jesus."  Here are the two mighty pillars of our freedom from the power and domination of sin.

"The believer is to rejoice in a double blessing of Calvary and Pentecost.  He is freed from condemnation because of the Blood shed, and he is set free from the law of sin and death by the indwelling Spirit that he received when he came to the Lord Jesus.  It is not only that there is no condemnation, but there is liberty.

"'The law of the Spirit of Life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death' (Romans 8:2).  '...hath made  me free...' Let me walk in it; let me enjoy it, and I am.  I am not struggling to get free; I have been set free in the Spirit, and I am bidden to stand fast in the liberty wherewith Christ has made me free (Gal. 5:1). I am not struggling for victory; I am standing in victory.  I have not to struggle to get out of the horrible pit.  He lifted me out; set my feet on the Rock and established my goings; and He bids me, 'Stand fast in the victory that I have gained for you.'  Believe and rejoice in it, and you will know what it is to be free,"-- G. G.

"Walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit" (Rom. 8:4).
By M. Stanford

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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~Daily Inspirational ~ "PATTERN OF MERCY" MARCH 20, 2005


"PATTERN OF MERCY"

"That He might make known the riches of His glory on the vessels of mercy, which He had afore prepared unto glory" (Rom. 9:23).

Mercifully, day by day, He unfolds before our startled eyes the evil depths of the self-life.  It is thus we come to know Him as the "God who is rich in mercy," and ourselves as "vessels of mercy."

"Today sinful men, not angels, are entrusted with the preaching of the Gospel, and before they can be used of God must first of all have plumbed the depths of their own sinfulness, and have, therefore, discovered the heights and glories of God's long-suffering.  In this way they can become a pattern of His mercy, by means of which He can demonstrate His grace to others."--J. C. M.

"The power effectively to present Christ as Lord, is by means of revelation deep within us, bringing into being an unshakable knowledge of His authority and might, and making us content to accept our weakness and nothingness in order that we may see the pleasure of the Lord prosper in His hand (Isaiah 53:10)."-- J. C. M.

"The more useful anyone is, the more he requires to be brought to an of himself, and to find that his all is in the Lord Jesus.  We find some of His servants deeply chastened at first, in order to prepare them for a useful course; and some after a useful period are brought low and afflicted in order that they might learn how truly in fully our Father is sovereign." --J. B.S.

"From Me is thy  fruit found " (Hosea 14:8)
By M. Stanford

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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~Daily Inspirational ~ "COOPERATIVE LIVING" MARCH 21, 2005


"COOPERATIVE LIVING"

"Put away, as concerning your former manner of life, the old man" (Eph. 4:22).

"Positionally, in the finished work of the Cross and resurrection, we have been cut off from the old man through death, and have been born into the new Man by the new birth.  Ye have put off the old man ... and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him" (Colossians 3:9,10).  Experientially, day by day, our part is to choose against the old ("put off") in favor of the new ("put on"), thus allowing the Holy Spirit freedom to apply the finished work of the Cross (Rom. 6:11).  "I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I that live, but Christ liveth in me" (Galatians 2:20, ASV).

"The flesh need not be an ugly form of life, indeed it can be apparently very nice, but it is alien to this new life in the Spirit.  It belongs to another race; it is not the life of the Lord Jesus Christ.  So we are told that the Holy Spirit is in open conflict against the self-life" (Galatians 5:17).

It is equally true that the flesh lusts (strives) against the Spirit, but He is well able to take up the challenge.  He will not quietly accept this rival to the rule of Christ, so He stands with His great weapon of the Cross, to render inoperative everything which is a menace as to the life of Christ in us.  He calls us to cooperate with Him in this manner matter by reckoning, for only so can the excellency of Christ be manifested in the believer."  -- H. F.

"Put on the new man" (Eph. 4:24 ).
By M. Stanford

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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~Daily Inspirational ~ "RESURRECTION POWER" MARCH 26, 2005

"RESURRECTION POWER"

How comes this flower to bloom so fair,
With loveliest fragrance to fill the air?
A short time ago the seed lay dead,
The cold, wintry ground its desolate bed.
But now, behold, from the dampened earth,
Without a sound to betray its birth,
This thing of beauty has
blossomed and grown
To possess a loveliness all its own.
And as we view it, standing there
With a majesty quite beyond compare,
A mighty conviction grips the heart:
This beautiful flow’r has a counterpart.
Our Savior once suffered and died for sin.
Though no one so righteous as He had been.

It seemed that the devil had sealed His doom
As they buried His body in Joseph’s tomb.
But what is this wonder that greets our eyes
As the rays of the third morning’s sun arise?
Behold, He is risen! The grave could not hold
The Author of Life; the Anointed of God!
And now the dead who have
trusted in His name,
Though sleeping in Jesus, will rise again
With bodies more glorious than this flower
--Sown in weakness, but raised in power!
C.R.S.

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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[nChrist]

~Daily Inspirational ~ "IN" MARCH 27, 2005


"IN" - Page 1

What a big - little word 'in' is! It is a word of inclusion, acceptance, of safety, and of involvement.  It is also a word of location: we live IN Seattle; we live IN the U.S.A.

The Word of God employs this little preposition to express profound truths.  Especially in this true regarding the believer in this present dispensation of the Grace of God. Several things are said about this.

The believer is 'IN CHRIST JESUS'.  Nearly every epistle of Paul, the Apostle, begins with the statement, 'to the saints IN Christ Jesus' (Phil. 1:1). Every truly saved person is 'in Christ Jesus'.  He can be nowhere else!  True, in the physical, he is 'in the flesh' as long as he lives on this earth; but in relation to his spirit, he is vitally and eternally 'IN Christ Jesus'. He was put into Christ not by works or rituals of any sort. God the Holy Spirit baptized him into Christ the moment he believed.  As such, he is now' accepted in the beloved' (Eph. 1:6). He is 'in the sphere of the beloved', to put it more accurately.

'In the Beloved,' accepted am I,
Risen, ascended, and seated on high;
Saved from all sin thro' His infinite
grace,
 With the redeemed ones accorded a place.
'In the Beloved,' God's marvelous grace,
Calls me to dwell in this wonderful
 place;
God sees my Saviour and then He sees me
'In the Beloved,' accepted and free.'

No wonder the Apostle could victoriously declare: 'There is therefore now no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus', and nothing 'shall be able to separate me from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus my Lord' (Romans 8:1-39).

The believer is 'IN GOD'. 'For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ, IN God' (Col. 3:3). To the saints who lived in Thessalonica Paul wrote: '..to the church of the Thessalonians in God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ' ( II Thes. 1:1). What a fantastic truth!!  Because Jesus Christ is God's eternal Son, and because He is 'one' with His Father (John 10:30), all who are truly 'in Christ' are also 'in God the Father! That is security! indeed - eternal security!  It is far more secure than money or jewels locked up in the largest, strongest, well-constructed vault in any bank known to man. Satan, man, or any other creation cannot reach into God and pluck you out!  Blessed assurance!

The believer is 'IN THE SPIRIT'. This Paul declares in Romans 8:9: "However you are not in the flesh (the fallen Adamic nature) but in the spirit if indeed the spirit of God dwells in you.' This would seem to be sheer presumption had not God said this! But praise be to God, it is so!  We are IN the Spirit. Now it is up to us to learn to 'walk in the spirit' (Gal. 5:16)!

Are you on the 'in' today --'in Christ', 'in God the Father',
'in the Spirit'? If not, then call on the Lord by faith and trust Him now to accept you 'in the Beloved'.

Grace, Peace, and Love,
Pastor Paul Hume
(To be continued)

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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[nChrist]

~Daily Inspirational ~ "IN" MARCH 28, 2005


"IN" - Page 2

Continued from 3/27/05

On Mach 27, we began to look at the truth packed into the little word 'IN' as used in the New Testament.  We observed how the true believer (the Christian) is 'in Christ Jesus,' 'in God the Father,' and 'in the Spirit.' He is vitally joined to all three members of the blessed Godhead by the baptism of the Holy Spirit (Romans 6:3-5; 1 Corinthians 12:13, Ephesians 4:5). We now want to carry this blessed subject a little further and note some more truths therein. The believer is 'IN THE FAITH,' Paul the Apostle warned the professing Christians who lived in Corinth. 'Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves!' ( II Cor. 13:5, NAS). Note the phrase: 'in the faith.' To Titus, Paul wrote: 'Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect.' (1:1). Paul also declared, 'There is.....one Lord, one faith, one baptism...'(Eph 4:5).  What does Paul mean? Is this 'Protestant faith'? Is it 'the Catholic faith'? Is it 'the Presbyterian faith,' etc? NO. It is the spiritual persuasion of heart that God gives to everyone who is truly saved, resting upon the body of Truth in the Bible, especially through Paul's epistles This faith comes from above. It is 'the faith of the Son of God' (Gal. 2:20). And every truly born-again person shares in that God-given faith.  He is 'in the faith.' Are you?

The believer is 'IN THE HOUSEHOLD OF FAITH.' Paul speaks twice of this: '....those who are of the household of faith' (Gal. 6:10), and '...... fellow-citizens with the saints, and are of God's household' (Eph. 2:19). Now a household involves a family. The word in Greek means 'kindred.' This means brothers and sisters and parents. In this case, the Word of God makes it clear that God the Father is the head of this household, 'the first-born among many brethren' (Romans 8:29). All who are 'in Christ Jesus' in this economy of the grace of God are 'adopted' sons and daughters (see Ephesians 1:5-6 and II Corinthians 6:18). How blessed it really is to realize this great truth: 'I am, by the grace of God, a member of God's household; and all of us who are truly saved are one big family!' Do you look upon others who know the Lord as your brothers and sisters?

The believer is 'IN THE TRUTH.' 'What is truth?' (John 18:38.) 'I am the Way the Truth, and the Life,' declared the Lord Jesus 'But you did not learn Christ in this way, if indeed you have heard Him and have been taught in Him, just as truth is in Jesus' (Eph. 4:20-21). Thus John the Apostle could write to believers: 'I have no greater joy than this, to hear of my children walking in the truth' (III John 4). Before we were regenerated by the Spirit of God (whom our Lord called 'the spirit of truth' (John 14:17), we were all part of 'the lie' - under the power of Satan (I John 5:19, Col. 1:13). Now 'we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life' (I John 5:20). As  result, we must practice walking in the truth, 'speaking the truth in love,' and telling the truth. All phoniness and hypocrisy and lying is wrong! It has no place in the Christian life!  Why? Because we are 'in the truth.' Are you? Do you live truthfully?  You CAN by the grace of God!

Pastor Paul Hume

(To be continued)

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
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[nChrist]

~Daily Inspirational ~ "IN" Part Three MARCH 29, 2005


"IN" - Page 3

Continued from 3/28/05

What a 'big - little' word we have found 'IN' to be in the Word of God. We look back to the Lord's words through Moses to captive Israel in Exodus 6:6-8: '...I will bring you OUT from under the burdens of the Egyptians...then I will take you for my people, and I will be our God...and I will bring you IN unto the land....(Note how Jehovah purposed to bring His chosen people out in order to bring them in. OUT of bondage and IN to blessing with battles involved, however.

This is similar to what God does when He saves individuals today. He marvelously takes them; out of death, into life; out of sin, into His righteousness, out of Satan's power, into the Kingdom of His beloved Son; out of darkness, into His light; out of enmity, into His love; out of being alienated, into His adopted family; out of unbelief, into true faith!  No wonder we can sing:

'Out of my bondage, sorrow and night,
Into Thy freedom, gladness and light,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of my sickness into Thy heath,
Out of my want and into Thy wealth
Out of my sin and into Thyself,
Jesus, I come to Thee.'

Let us meditate together more on this being 'brought in.' We have seen how the believer is 'in Christ,' ' in God the Father,' 'in the Spirit.' 'in the faith,' 'in the household of faith,' and 'in the truth.' No let us note another reality the true believer in Christ has been brought in to.

The believer is 'IN THE LIGHT.' In the words of the commission of the risen Lord to Paul the Apostle, we read: '.. I am sending you to open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light' (Acts 26:18). On this account, Paul reminds us: 'For you were formally darkness, but now are you light in the Lord; walk as children of light' (Eph. 5:8). What is 'darkness', and what is 'light'? Darkness, as referred to in the Scriptures, when it is used morally or spiritually, speaks of Satan's power, the devastating effects of sin, and ignorance of God and His Truth. Thus all people--religious or not---are 'darkness' as well as 'IN darkness' before they become saved. Even the most skilled, sanguine, 'sharp' people are 'in the dark' as far as God goes. But when the Holy Spirit carries out His pre-salvation work in the heart, and then the sinner receives the Lord Jesus Christ into his heart by God-given faith, the 'light comes on' in his heart. For God, Who said, 'Light shall shine out of darkness,' is the One who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ (2 Cor. 4:6, N.A.S.). This is also why the Apostle John could testify, 'And we know that the Son of God has come, and has given us an understanding...' (1 John 5:20). 'God is light,' declares John, and every true Christian has been brought into that Light. Now we are to 'walk in the light, as He is in the light' in order to experience daily 'fellowship with one another'---with our Father as well as each other.

Dear Reader, are you 'in the Light' today? If not, come in to God's Light today by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ, and then start walking day by day in that 'marvelous light.'

Grace, Peace and Love,
Pastor Paul Hume

(To be continued)

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
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[nChrist]

~Daily Inspirational ~ "IN" Part Four MARCH 30, 2005


"IN" - Page 4

Continued from March 29

This 'big - little' word is one of inclusion, location and relationship. Our beloved sons and daughters are IN our families because they are 'of ' us through birth or adoption. So in the spiritual sense 'But by His doing you, are IN Christ Jesus,' wrote Paul to the people in Corinth whom he called 'my beloved children.' They were 'in union with Christ Jesus', and therefore were 'in the household of God,' 'in the faith,' 'in the beloved,' etc.

THE BELIEVER IS 'IN THE HEAVENLIES'.

Five times in his great Ephesians Epistle, Paul speaks of the 'heavenly places'. Actually the word 'places' is misleading. The word is an adjective, and it therefore describes something. It could better be translated 'the above heavens', or 'the super-heavens'.  Another translation suggests 'among the celestials'. At any rate, 'the heavenlies' are seen in Ephesians as being the area where the believer in Christ is seated, blessed, and has his conflict with the powers of darkness (see Eph. 1:3, 2:6, 6:12). Paul also wrote to the believers in Philippi that 'our citizenship is in heaven' (3:20). The saints of God in Christ are seen in this dispensation of the sovereign grace of God not as being merely 'on earth.' They are seen as being 'WITH Him in the heavenlies  in Christ Jesus' (Eph. 2:6). This is why Paul tells us to look at ourselves as being 'dead and our life is hidden with Christ IN God.... Therefore mortify your members which are upon the earth (Col. 3:3-5). In spirit, we are in the above-heavens; in the flesh, we are upon the earth. Oh, to be more Christ-minded so that we will be more earthly good!

THE BELIEVER IS IN THE LOVE OF GOD.

Because he has been 'accepted IN the beloved,' he is ensphered in the mighty, great love of God. This is why in even extenuating  experiences Paul could cry out, '.....nor any created thing shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord' (Rom. 8:39). We are deeply enveloped in this divine love, and nothing -- no, nothing in heaven, earth or under the earth -- shall ever extract us from that love. Praise His holy Name! Now we are enjoined to 'walk in love' (Eph. 5:2). John speaks of our 'dwelling in love,' and thereby 'dwelling in God' ( 1 John 4:16). Oh, to be more saturated with His love! Then we'll love others 'as Christ also loved us, and gave Himself for us' (Eph. 5:2). But the Holy Spirit is the key to that love, isn't He? (Meditate on Ephesians 3:16-19 and Romans 5:5.)

THE BELIEVER IS IN THE TEMPLE!

What temple? The coming earthly temple which will be built in Jerusalem? No, the temple --- sanctuary, holy place, inner shrine -- which the Lord is building now!  Paul states: 'So then you are .....of God's household, having been built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the cornerstone, IN WHOM the whole building, being fitted together is growing into a holy temple in the Lord; IN WHOM you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit' (Eph. 2:19,20-22). Think of it! We who use to be enemies of God are now parts of His holy place! We are part of His 'holy of holies' where He dwells! This is the highest calling God has granted to any people of any dispensation. We who comprise 'the church which is His body' have that signal honor! Let us bow down and worship Him and give ourselves to Him to use for His glory more than ever in 2005!

Grace, Peace and Love,
Pastor Paul Hume

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
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[nChrist]

~Daily Inspirational ~ "MINDING YOUR MIND" MARCH 31, 2005


"MINDING YOUR MIND"

'Mind over matter' -- -- have you heard that phrase before?  In the past one years several religious and metaphysical groups have arisen based on that statement.  And it is greatly true!  There is definite power in the mind over our material bodies.  We can think ourselves sick! Many illnesses or mentally stimulated and are rightly described as being 'psychosomatic.'

About eight centuries before our Lord was born, the prophet Micah wrote of the strange power of the human mind: 'Woe to those was scheme iniquity, who work out evil on their beds!  When the morning comes, they do it, for it is in the power of their hands' (Micah 2:1) Note the strong relation between 'scheming' and the later doing!

No wonder the Spirit of God has a lot to say about our minds and our daily. thought-life.  It would be rewarding for you to take your Bible and a good concordance (such as Young's) and trace out what the New Testament states about the mind.  The mind of the unregenerate is mentioned, and the mind and thought - life of the regenerate is clearly delineated.

Paul reminds us that in our unsaved state we were 'formerly alienated and hostile in mind, in engaged in evil deeds' (Col. 1:21).  He speaks of those who have 'a reprobate mind' ( Romans 1:28).  He warns that a defied mind may produce a stained conscience: 'To the pure, all things are our pure; but to those who are defiled and unbelieving, nothing is pure, but both their mind in their conscience are defiled' (Titus 1:15).

But when an individual is saved the mind takes on a new function.  It becomes the center of action for either Satan or the Holy Spirit. Thus Paul speaks of those who 'set their minds on the things of the Spirit' (Romans 8:5).  It is interesting also how Paul confessed that with his mind he served the law of God (Rom. 7:25).  No wonder Paul urges on every believer in Christ to 'be getting renewed in the spirit of your mind' (Eph. 4: 23).

There is a real battle here!  The newly saved person receives a 'new spirit, but he does not automatically receive a new mine.  He is to 'let this mind be in (him), which was also in Christ Jesus' (Phil. 2:5). Satan doesn't want this at  all!  Hence he will see  to it your mind is on anything and everything imaginable (sinful things as well as good things) but not on the Lord, His Word, or 'the things of the Spirit.'

Can we understand, then, what Paul meant when he spoke of the necessity of 'bringing captive every thought to the obedience of Christ' (2 Cor. 10:5?  God has given us in Christ the ability to overcome evil, rebellious, foolish and ungodly thoughts.  Indeed, he has given each of us 'the spirit...of a sound mine' (2 Tim. 1:7).

How is your thought - life today?  Is it God-honoring and Christ-centered, or would you be mortally ashamed for anyone to know your thoughts -- even in the church service -- today?  May we cry to God for renewed minds!
Pastor Paul Hume

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

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[nChrist]

~Daily Inspirational ~ Christ "IN" us APRIL 1, 2005


Christ "IN" us

Lessons of what the Lord is teaching me, on what God is working out in the person of Jesus Christ "IN" me. As I become available for Him to do "HIS" ministry through me. Amazing things happen...learning this reality of Christ "IN" us is a difficult lesson to learn..For years I thought I could walk for the Lord or walk His life following His footsteps only to find out that I fail miserably...He is the only one that can live the Christian life and this is the message that should be given and received..once that becomes a reality...the LIFE of the Lord "IN" us will never extinguish...May Our Lord bless us and those we share HIM with as discovery of this reality becomes more and more real in the GRACE WALK...

Gal 5:20 "I have been crucified with Christ; and it no longer I who lives; but Christ lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by the faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me."

Christ "IN" us the greatest mystery ever revealed...

Col 1:26 " ....The mystery which has been hidden from the past ages and generations, but has now been manifested to His saints; to whom God willed to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ In YOU, the hope of glory."

 What a wonderful God and Lord we have that they would even consider a way to come and abide in their creation..Praise His wonderful name... Legalism only binds us up...Life the Lord's life in "US" is really what brings lasting freedom. When we have successfully failed in trying to walk the walk of our Lord, is when real success can take root in our lives....Christ "IN" us the real Christian walk..May He continue to shine through us as we rest in these truths. To Him be the Glory and Honor.

___________________________________
From Grace And The Truth Ministries
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/

Should this Inspirational be a blessing and encouragement to you, why not send to a friend, coworker or, to your loved one who maybe defending the USA. The Word of God is so needed in our troubled world.  It is our heart at GRACE AND THE TRUTH and mission to reach as many people as we possibly can TO SHARE with them the Word of God and all that the Lord Jesus Christ has done for members of the body of Christ.

Ephesians 3:9 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.

Click Below For FREE Email Subscription:
http://www.graceandthetruth.com/pop_up.htm
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