Phil. 2:5-8
Jesus set an example that we are to follow if we are going to strive to be like Him, by His servitude. He served God, even to the point of death on the cross. Jesus was brought to earth, by God, to be the ultimate and final sacrifice for the sins of mankind. In the process of Jesus' life on earth, He showed mankind how to live a life that is pleasing to God. He was perfect and pure, committing no sin and doing no wrong in the eyes of God, therefore setting the template for us on how to live the Christian life. Even though we are not perfect, God expects us to strive for perfection. This allows God to be pleased with us , just as He was pleased with His Son Jesus. It is through the process of trying to achieve perfection; the right and wrong choices, the circumstances of life and how we handle them that we learn valuable life lessons. It was these life lessons that Jesus taught everyone in His time on earth. God gives those who believe in Jesus and becomes a Christian, The Holy Spirit to guide them and to be a conscience to the soul.
Through the Scriptures, Jesus laid out the blueprint on how to live life in a way that pleases God. We will never achieve the level of success that Jesus had, because we are not God, but God is pleased with us when we do try to live a life of truth and exhibit morals that are holy and pure. We can choose not to lie, cheat, steal, murder, dishonor people, and dishonor God, just as Jesus didn't do these things. Using this blueprint, we can live as Jesus did and let people see Jesus living through us today. Jesus is timeless. He is truth, and truth never goes out of style.
When Jesus lived among men on earth, He was even tempered and not easily provoked to anger. He was meek. He reduced himself when He lived on earth and took on the role of a bondservant. This was unique, because a bondservant is someone who is bound to servitude. Jesus, was not bound or forced to do this, He gave up His life voluntarily to give mankind a chance at salvation. If He had decided for some reason that He did not want to go through with His death on the cross, all of mankind would be going to hell when they die. With all of His powers, Jesus had plenty of opportunities to get out of His situation, but He refused to use them and instead chose to do the will of God. It was love that held Jesus to that cross, not the nails.
Jesus was not concerned if He was equal with God in stature. He did not have an ego. Jesus denied Himself of privileges afforded Him, and did the will of God. We as Christians should do the same, refusing the privileges that the world offers, instead, depending on God to guide our lives.
A person cannot have a servant heart and be full of pride. You or I can't do the will of God, and He can't be pleased if we are proud of our possessions, and not wanting to part with any of them. We must demonstrate the humble spirit that Jesus exhibited. This is a character trait that God can be pleased with. For some people, humility comes naturally, as it did for Jesus. For others, it doesn't. it has been my observation that people who are naturally humble, they are more often blessed in life, at peace, and content with whatever life throws at them. On the other hand, those who struggle with humility being part of their nature, or somewhere along the way pride has overtaken their humble heart, these people are less often blessed. They are always searching for and wanting more out of life. (Matt. 19:24, Mark 10:25).
People should always strive for a humble attitude, because if we have pride in our heart, God will humble us, and usually it is going to be painful when He does. I wish I wouldn't have learned a lot of things the hard way throughout my life, but those painful lessons made me a wiser person today. If the up and coming generations such as 11-30 year olds would just heed a sliver of their elders warnings, the morals of this nation would start to change. Pray for the youth to listen and pray for those who are in positions of power to not let it go to their heads. Thank Jesus for showing us how to live out this valuable character trait that was just one of the many that He lived out and tried to teach others.
I would like to know how and where my articles are used. You may contact me at eternalprose@aol.com
This article is the original work and property of Derek Dill.
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Saturday, October 11, 2008
The Words That Will Fight All Your Spiritual Battles
With the Lord there is total protection for whatever you're facing. No matter what battles you're going through, whether physical, emotional or spiritual, the Lord has equipped you.
With God the battles are fought in the spirit realm. Words, thoughts and situations can condemn you. Have you ever felt a heaviness that you just can't seem to shake? Words spoken against you or evil thoughts directed at you play a big part in your wellbeing. Do you sometimes feel heavily burdened for no reason to the point that you cannot shake the gloomy feeling?
It could very well be that you are being unwittingly judged by someone who has hard feelings towards you and may even be making judgmental comments to others about you. Or maybe you're upset about something you have said or done that you're not proud of. Your very own words and thoughts could be condemning you!
Your greatest weapon is your faith. It is your shield to "quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." (Eph. 6: 16) It is God's power to come against any adversary. Do you keep in constant contact with your Lord and Savior? It's in that secret place and time where you spend time with Him that you feel His loving arms protecting you. That's where you hear Him reassure you and you will experience total trust. In that intimacy you will be emboldened to say with conviction that indeed He is your refuge and your fortress and that surely, positively, absolutely He will delivery you! (Ps. 91: 1 - 3)
Except for the quiet time when you're listening to the Lord, all prayer is spoken out loud. Whether a whisper or a cry, words are powerful. God is the only One who reads your thoughts. The devil cannot! But demons stand at the ready and as soon as you speak negative thoughts about others or yourself, they will then fuel your mind with negative, sad or vindictive thoughts. It is important that you recognize these tactics and that you replace any such thoughts with God's Word on the subject as soon as possible.
How do you do that? Well, in your quiet time with the Lord, He will always affirm you and talk to you through His Word. He will give you a scripture verse that is right on for your particular situation at any given day. Speak it, or any other appropriate verse, over your situation. For instance, take this verse:
"No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord." (Isa. 54: 17)
Declare in faith that God says that no weapon formed against you shall prosper and that no tongue shall condemn you! Just keep on declaring that you are God's child and, no matter how you feel about yourself, if God says you are righteous, then so are you! Your righteousness is Jesus and what He has done for you on the cross. Nobody is righteous in their own right; we are all sinners.
God's righteousness means that you are bought with, and are covered by, His precious Blood. As His child, you need only go in confidence to your Daddy and confess as soon as you are made aware of any digression. He is faithful to forgive and He will remember your sin no more. (John 1: 9)
Therefore, be encouraged. Don't feel condemned! You have the power of heaven on your side. By the same token, recognize yourself the same way that Jesus sees you. You are righteous and He loves you! Tell yourself that you are His anointed. Yes, you need to hear it! Stop when you hear derogatory declarations coming out of your own mouth about yourself, like: "I'm stupid," I can't do this," or "I deserve to feel bad."
When you do that, you're not doing it so much for your own self esteem and wellbeing. By declaring God's Word, and standing in faith that His Word is Truth, you are giving Him the Glory! He is pleased to see His children walk in power and freedom! That's His purpose for you.
"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." (Rom. 8: 1)
Author of With Wings As Eagles, a book of miracles in process. Ann is also a prolific writer of inspirational articles on faith and encouragement
http://with-wings-as-eagles.com
Sign up for her ezine: Embarcing All the Promises of God: http://lifealteringwords.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
With God the battles are fought in the spirit realm. Words, thoughts and situations can condemn you. Have you ever felt a heaviness that you just can't seem to shake? Words spoken against you or evil thoughts directed at you play a big part in your wellbeing. Do you sometimes feel heavily burdened for no reason to the point that you cannot shake the gloomy feeling?
It could very well be that you are being unwittingly judged by someone who has hard feelings towards you and may even be making judgmental comments to others about you. Or maybe you're upset about something you have said or done that you're not proud of. Your very own words and thoughts could be condemning you!
Your greatest weapon is your faith. It is your shield to "quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." (Eph. 6: 16) It is God's power to come against any adversary. Do you keep in constant contact with your Lord and Savior? It's in that secret place and time where you spend time with Him that you feel His loving arms protecting you. That's where you hear Him reassure you and you will experience total trust. In that intimacy you will be emboldened to say with conviction that indeed He is your refuge and your fortress and that surely, positively, absolutely He will delivery you! (Ps. 91: 1 - 3)
Except for the quiet time when you're listening to the Lord, all prayer is spoken out loud. Whether a whisper or a cry, words are powerful. God is the only One who reads your thoughts. The devil cannot! But demons stand at the ready and as soon as you speak negative thoughts about others or yourself, they will then fuel your mind with negative, sad or vindictive thoughts. It is important that you recognize these tactics and that you replace any such thoughts with God's Word on the subject as soon as possible.
How do you do that? Well, in your quiet time with the Lord, He will always affirm you and talk to you through His Word. He will give you a scripture verse that is right on for your particular situation at any given day. Speak it, or any other appropriate verse, over your situation. For instance, take this verse:
"No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and their righteousness is of me, saith the Lord." (Isa. 54: 17)
Declare in faith that God says that no weapon formed against you shall prosper and that no tongue shall condemn you! Just keep on declaring that you are God's child and, no matter how you feel about yourself, if God says you are righteous, then so are you! Your righteousness is Jesus and what He has done for you on the cross. Nobody is righteous in their own right; we are all sinners.
God's righteousness means that you are bought with, and are covered by, His precious Blood. As His child, you need only go in confidence to your Daddy and confess as soon as you are made aware of any digression. He is faithful to forgive and He will remember your sin no more. (John 1: 9)
Therefore, be encouraged. Don't feel condemned! You have the power of heaven on your side. By the same token, recognize yourself the same way that Jesus sees you. You are righteous and He loves you! Tell yourself that you are His anointed. Yes, you need to hear it! Stop when you hear derogatory declarations coming out of your own mouth about yourself, like: "I'm stupid," I can't do this," or "I deserve to feel bad."
When you do that, you're not doing it so much for your own self esteem and wellbeing. By declaring God's Word, and standing in faith that His Word is Truth, you are giving Him the Glory! He is pleased to see His children walk in power and freedom! That's His purpose for you.
"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." (Rom. 8: 1)
Author of With Wings As Eagles, a book of miracles in process. Ann is also a prolific writer of inspirational articles on faith and encouragement
http://with-wings-as-eagles.com
Sign up for her ezine: Embarcing All the Promises of God: http://lifealteringwords.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
The Bones of Elisha
I've always wondered what it would be like to see someone who has died raised back to life. It happened several times in the Bible. I've heard of instances where it has happened today but I've never witnessed such an event.
When my grandmother died I wished that she would come back to life. I remember walking past her casket with her body laying there. I remember thinking to myself, "I've got enough faith to command that she come back to life." Then I remembered that she was ninety-seven years old, and had lived a very good life for the Lord. I also remembered how much she longed for Heaven. She was there now. Then the thought occurred to me, "Son, if you were successful in bringing her back to life she'd beat you silly for doing it. She's where she has always wanted to be." I let the matter alone.
In 2 Kings 13:20-21, we read about an incident involving the bones of Elisha. He was a great prophet of God. The Lord had used him in many miraculous things. He had died and they had buried him.
Sometime later another man had died. In those days Israel had been plagued by raiding bands from the nation of Moab. As the man's friends were preparing to bury him they saw the raiding bands of Moab coming. In their haste to finish their job and hide from the Moabites they spied Elisha's tomb and thought, "We'll just put him in there for now and get out of here." So that's what they did. They put the dead man in the tomb of Elisha. But they got a surprise. When the dead man's bones touched the bones of Elisha he was instantly brought back to life! Imagine that! The Bible doesn't record what happened next but I'd say they went ahead and got out of there and their once dead buddy went with them.
There is a lesson in this for us. We may not go around raising the dead to life but as believers in Jesus Christ we do have that opportunity in a spiritual sense each and every day of our lives. Our number one job as Christians is to make more Christians. We are to be living our lives in such a way that people know who we are. They should see our love for other Christians which according to the Book of John and the words of Jesus, is the main witness and identification that we are believers. They should see our work ethics, our morals, and how we treat others and it should be a testimony without words for the Lord Jesus Christ.
When they do, eventually they will come to us and want to know how to get what we have. What an open door we then stand before. We haven't had to push the Gospel on them but they have come seeking the Good News of Jesus Christ. We can tell them what God has done for us and show them how they can receive salvation for themselves. It's a lot like touching the bones of Elisha. We have the opportunity to bring them back to life.
Oh, I know that they are walking around, breathing, eating, working and doing things only the living can do. But spiritually they are walking dead men. They need to be revived in a way that only the Holy Spirit of God can revive them. When we are being the witnesses for the Lord that we are supposed to be, we can't help but let it show. Our lives are a dead giveaway as to who we are. Elisha brought that man back to life without speaking a word. He couldn't He was dead himself! But the power of God was so strong in him that when the dead man's body touched him, it changed the dead man into a living man. Seek God, give yourself fully to Him and you'll find that as people touch your life they will start coming to life themselves!
Jerry D. Ousley is the Author of three books, "Soul Challenge", "Soul Journey" and "Ordeal." Listen to our daily broadcast Spirit Bread. Find out more by visiting www.spiritbread.com
or email us at jousley@spiritbread.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
When my grandmother died I wished that she would come back to life. I remember walking past her casket with her body laying there. I remember thinking to myself, "I've got enough faith to command that she come back to life." Then I remembered that she was ninety-seven years old, and had lived a very good life for the Lord. I also remembered how much she longed for Heaven. She was there now. Then the thought occurred to me, "Son, if you were successful in bringing her back to life she'd beat you silly for doing it. She's where she has always wanted to be." I let the matter alone.
In 2 Kings 13:20-21, we read about an incident involving the bones of Elisha. He was a great prophet of God. The Lord had used him in many miraculous things. He had died and they had buried him.
Sometime later another man had died. In those days Israel had been plagued by raiding bands from the nation of Moab. As the man's friends were preparing to bury him they saw the raiding bands of Moab coming. In their haste to finish their job and hide from the Moabites they spied Elisha's tomb and thought, "We'll just put him in there for now and get out of here." So that's what they did. They put the dead man in the tomb of Elisha. But they got a surprise. When the dead man's bones touched the bones of Elisha he was instantly brought back to life! Imagine that! The Bible doesn't record what happened next but I'd say they went ahead and got out of there and their once dead buddy went with them.
There is a lesson in this for us. We may not go around raising the dead to life but as believers in Jesus Christ we do have that opportunity in a spiritual sense each and every day of our lives. Our number one job as Christians is to make more Christians. We are to be living our lives in such a way that people know who we are. They should see our love for other Christians which according to the Book of John and the words of Jesus, is the main witness and identification that we are believers. They should see our work ethics, our morals, and how we treat others and it should be a testimony without words for the Lord Jesus Christ.
When they do, eventually they will come to us and want to know how to get what we have. What an open door we then stand before. We haven't had to push the Gospel on them but they have come seeking the Good News of Jesus Christ. We can tell them what God has done for us and show them how they can receive salvation for themselves. It's a lot like touching the bones of Elisha. We have the opportunity to bring them back to life.
Oh, I know that they are walking around, breathing, eating, working and doing things only the living can do. But spiritually they are walking dead men. They need to be revived in a way that only the Holy Spirit of God can revive them. When we are being the witnesses for the Lord that we are supposed to be, we can't help but let it show. Our lives are a dead giveaway as to who we are. Elisha brought that man back to life without speaking a word. He couldn't He was dead himself! But the power of God was so strong in him that when the dead man's body touched him, it changed the dead man into a living man. Seek God, give yourself fully to Him and you'll find that as people touch your life they will start coming to life themselves!
Jerry D. Ousley is the Author of three books, "Soul Challenge", "Soul Journey" and "Ordeal." Listen to our daily broadcast Spirit Bread. Find out more by visiting www.spiritbread.com
or email us at jousley@spiritbread.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Who or what is your Goliath?
Life is full of changes, they can happen in an instant or over a period of time, but change is inevitable.
These changes can catch us off guard, bring about very uncomfortable feelings. They could be to do with a person in your life, change in personal circumstances or a fresh challenge ahead. Either one of these can bring about fear.
I write this, as I too face an enormous challenge ahead. I am leaving my home to go abroad for a month. I am going alone on the journey and do not really know what will happen. This morning fear really struck me to the core.
The Lord then reminded me of the story of David and the Goliath. Just remembering the story in the bible gave me hope and confidence. I decided to do a little research myself. I haven't read the story for a while and thought it would be good to read it again.
David, out looking after his sheep, a humble shepherd, was called to visit his brothers out on the battle field where they were being taunted by the giant Philistine, Goliath. Not only was this man a physically impressive, but the mere presence of him brought shudders to the Israelites. Fear! Such a great enemy!
"When Saul and all Israel heard those words of the Philistine, they were dismayed, and greatly afraid". 1 Samuel 17 v 11
Who did God send to his people, a humble shepherd. God had been preparing David. He was small in stature and the baby amongst his brothers. He was thought of as a fly in the ointment, a pest. But God had his eye on David. God sees the heart not just what is on the outside.
When David approached his brothers and heard all the commotion over this giant called Goliath, the words that David spoke next reverberated around the Israelites in astonishment.
"For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?".1 Samuel 17 v26
In utter disbelieve, David's brothers reprimanded him for such an outburst against such an enemy! But David knew God. David had experienced the workings of his God. David boldly says 'the living God"
This is very important, God is alive, working, active, not just some stoned figure statue of a false god.
David had life experience looking after his sheep from bears, wolves and lions. His life experience backed up the living reality of knowing God.
"David said moreover, The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine". 1 Samuel 17 v 37
David took a humble staff, sling and stones. He was not dressed up as a warrior but took simple, humble weapons, things that God had given him. David was not into showmanship. Goliath, Philistine, giant was armoured from head to toe in man-made decor. David's armour was spiritual. The Lord, the living God. David stood in front and faced Goliath trusting. Not in false hope but in deep trust.
". For the battle is the Lord's". 1 Samuel 17 v 47
This humble shepherd, David, was guided by the Great Shepherd.
"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want". Psalm 23 v 1
So if you are feeling afraid today or at any time read the story of David and Goliath and take comfort that God is real. He is living and active and will take us as we are, with what we have and fight our battles for us.
"The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the Strength of my life; of whom should I be afraid" Psalm 27 v 3
Who or what is your Goliath, take heart God is with you!
JAnnJulyan@gmail.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
These changes can catch us off guard, bring about very uncomfortable feelings. They could be to do with a person in your life, change in personal circumstances or a fresh challenge ahead. Either one of these can bring about fear.
I write this, as I too face an enormous challenge ahead. I am leaving my home to go abroad for a month. I am going alone on the journey and do not really know what will happen. This morning fear really struck me to the core.
The Lord then reminded me of the story of David and the Goliath. Just remembering the story in the bible gave me hope and confidence. I decided to do a little research myself. I haven't read the story for a while and thought it would be good to read it again.
David, out looking after his sheep, a humble shepherd, was called to visit his brothers out on the battle field where they were being taunted by the giant Philistine, Goliath. Not only was this man a physically impressive, but the mere presence of him brought shudders to the Israelites. Fear! Such a great enemy!
"When Saul and all Israel heard those words of the Philistine, they were dismayed, and greatly afraid". 1 Samuel 17 v 11
Who did God send to his people, a humble shepherd. God had been preparing David. He was small in stature and the baby amongst his brothers. He was thought of as a fly in the ointment, a pest. But God had his eye on David. God sees the heart not just what is on the outside.
When David approached his brothers and heard all the commotion over this giant called Goliath, the words that David spoke next reverberated around the Israelites in astonishment.
"For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?".1 Samuel 17 v26
In utter disbelieve, David's brothers reprimanded him for such an outburst against such an enemy! But David knew God. David had experienced the workings of his God. David boldly says 'the living God"
This is very important, God is alive, working, active, not just some stoned figure statue of a false god.
David had life experience looking after his sheep from bears, wolves and lions. His life experience backed up the living reality of knowing God.
"David said moreover, The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine". 1 Samuel 17 v 37
David took a humble staff, sling and stones. He was not dressed up as a warrior but took simple, humble weapons, things that God had given him. David was not into showmanship. Goliath, Philistine, giant was armoured from head to toe in man-made decor. David's armour was spiritual. The Lord, the living God. David stood in front and faced Goliath trusting. Not in false hope but in deep trust.
". For the battle is the Lord's". 1 Samuel 17 v 47
This humble shepherd, David, was guided by the Great Shepherd.
"The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not be in want". Psalm 23 v 1
So if you are feeling afraid today or at any time read the story of David and Goliath and take comfort that God is real. He is living and active and will take us as we are, with what we have and fight our battles for us.
"The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the Strength of my life; of whom should I be afraid" Psalm 27 v 3
Who or what is your Goliath, take heart God is with you!
JAnnJulyan@gmail.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
REHOBOTH The Lord has made Room for Me
For close to two years I have been meditating on a particular passage of scripture from Genesis. Every time I read it, I sense God is talking to me, about me.
In chapter 26 of Genesis we read of Isaac's journeys (following in his father's footsteps) in which he encountered the same obstacles and challenges that Abraham met (Gen. 20; 26:1-11).
The portion of Isaac's story that speaks experientially to me begins at verse 12 and continues on to verse 22.
During Isaac's stay in the land the Lord blessed him tremendously. The Philistines in envy and fear stopped up the wells (Abraham dug in his day) necessary for Isaac's livestock, and ordered Isaac to leave the area.
Isaac packed up and moved to the valley of Gerar. There he dug a well but the herdsmen of Gerar came and fought with him claiming the well as theirs. So Isaac and his men dug another well and the herdsmen claimed it too.
Isaac moved again, and dug a new well. This time no one fought him for it. He named the well Rehoboth: the Lord has made room for us.
In reading this section of Isaac's journey I thought about how my experiences in three other ministries mirrored what he went through.
The first church I served in after I began my journey, I was asked to leave after three years. I can still see the tears in the pastor's eyes as he stood with his deacons. "Because the Lord has blessed everything you've touched, I have to let you go. If I don't I might loose my church to you." Heartbroken and confused, I and my family left.
At the second church my family and I settled in, the same thing happen. So we moved again.
The first three years at the third church were awesome. It seemed I had finally found my fit. However, in the fourth year of my service suspicion and false accusations were made as the reason for my being successful in ministry. Though none of the charges against me were validated, I spent the last of my twelve years there confined to desk work. I could no longer teach, preach or facilitate training sessions within the church, or minister in the jails and prisons.
It was during this time that I discovered that God had given me an on-line writing ministry. I was forbidden to speak in church, but no one said I couldn't write. I began to rewrite some meditations I had written years ago. Testimonies in the form of short stories also begin to flow from my pen. A former client introduced me to the art of creating personal web pages. He helped me create my first website which included meditations and short inspirational stories. He encouraged me to add a feedback bottom so visitors could respond to what I had written. The feedback I received from visitors revealed that God was using my writings to reach people for Him.
When the pastor discovered I was ministering on line he gave me an ultimatum; either discontinue writing over the Internet or be excommunicated from the church.
So, for the third time I packed up my belongings and moved.
When I look at this portion of my life in light of Genesis 26:12-22, like Isaac I can say Rehoboth, the Lord has made room for me!
Via the World Wide Web God has given me more than enough room to prosper in sharing and ministering His gospel to the world. From the first website to three additional sites and several articles in syndication, God has made room for me to grow and serve.
NOTE: For the past four years I've been attending a church near my home. I have been refreshed, encouraged, supported and welcomed in fellowship. Not every member will be called to minister within their church, some will be called to work outside the gate (Numbers 11:25-29; Matthew 9:38-40; Luke 9:49-50). Despite the various problems occurring within our congregations, the church is still God's plan for His people to be taught and trained for ministry.
Anna M. Caison, third (eldest daughter) of eleven children, born in Chicago, Illinois. She is an ordain minister, Preschool Teacher and freelance writer for adults and children.
www.christmadeknowninme.org
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
In chapter 26 of Genesis we read of Isaac's journeys (following in his father's footsteps) in which he encountered the same obstacles and challenges that Abraham met (Gen. 20; 26:1-11).
The portion of Isaac's story that speaks experientially to me begins at verse 12 and continues on to verse 22.
During Isaac's stay in the land the Lord blessed him tremendously. The Philistines in envy and fear stopped up the wells (Abraham dug in his day) necessary for Isaac's livestock, and ordered Isaac to leave the area.
Isaac packed up and moved to the valley of Gerar. There he dug a well but the herdsmen of Gerar came and fought with him claiming the well as theirs. So Isaac and his men dug another well and the herdsmen claimed it too.
Isaac moved again, and dug a new well. This time no one fought him for it. He named the well Rehoboth: the Lord has made room for us.
In reading this section of Isaac's journey I thought about how my experiences in three other ministries mirrored what he went through.
The first church I served in after I began my journey, I was asked to leave after three years. I can still see the tears in the pastor's eyes as he stood with his deacons. "Because the Lord has blessed everything you've touched, I have to let you go. If I don't I might loose my church to you." Heartbroken and confused, I and my family left.
At the second church my family and I settled in, the same thing happen. So we moved again.
The first three years at the third church were awesome. It seemed I had finally found my fit. However, in the fourth year of my service suspicion and false accusations were made as the reason for my being successful in ministry. Though none of the charges against me were validated, I spent the last of my twelve years there confined to desk work. I could no longer teach, preach or facilitate training sessions within the church, or minister in the jails and prisons.
It was during this time that I discovered that God had given me an on-line writing ministry. I was forbidden to speak in church, but no one said I couldn't write. I began to rewrite some meditations I had written years ago. Testimonies in the form of short stories also begin to flow from my pen. A former client introduced me to the art of creating personal web pages. He helped me create my first website which included meditations and short inspirational stories. He encouraged me to add a feedback bottom so visitors could respond to what I had written. The feedback I received from visitors revealed that God was using my writings to reach people for Him.
When the pastor discovered I was ministering on line he gave me an ultimatum; either discontinue writing over the Internet or be excommunicated from the church.
So, for the third time I packed up my belongings and moved.
When I look at this portion of my life in light of Genesis 26:12-22, like Isaac I can say Rehoboth, the Lord has made room for me!
Via the World Wide Web God has given me more than enough room to prosper in sharing and ministering His gospel to the world. From the first website to three additional sites and several articles in syndication, God has made room for me to grow and serve.
NOTE: For the past four years I've been attending a church near my home. I have been refreshed, encouraged, supported and welcomed in fellowship. Not every member will be called to minister within their church, some will be called to work outside the gate (Numbers 11:25-29; Matthew 9:38-40; Luke 9:49-50). Despite the various problems occurring within our congregations, the church is still God's plan for His people to be taught and trained for ministry.
Anna M. Caison, third (eldest daughter) of eleven children, born in Chicago, Illinois. She is an ordain minister, Preschool Teacher and freelance writer for adults and children.
www.christmadeknowninme.org
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Trust and Obey
"So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, yea Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, "Feed my lambs"
He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep John 21 v 15 - 16
This is the word I received awhile back "Feed my sheep".
As I read the scripture it struck me for the first time that Jesus first says "feed my lambs" once but "feed my sheep" twice. When I saw "feed my lambs" I stopped at this point, then realised that the Lord actually said "feed my sheep".
It is important to listen to the Lord to hear exactly what He is saying. He was asking me to feed his sheep not lambs.
It's not just a whimsical thing to step out on your own and do your own thing the directions must come from the Lord guided by the Holy Spirit in line with His Word.
This comes from having a close relationship with God. Talking to him, praying, meditating on His word and getting to know that still small voice amidst the clattering of noisome pestilence in our world.
Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him. If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my feet. . John 13 v 8-9.
There are many Christians who profess to be Christians but Gods Word even tells us how we are to know the true believers from the liars. "By their fruit you will know them"
"He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him". 1 John 1 v 4
Jesus warns us that we are sent out as sheep among wolves but Praise God he has not left us wandering aimlessly without a guide. Jesus is the Good Shepherd and his parting gift of the Holy Spirit guides us into all Truth and is with us until the end of the age.
As we daily submit our lives into Jesus hands and allow Him to have the reins he will tell us what too say and do. Do not worry before hand what you will say because the Holy Spirit will bring to remembrance all the things you need to say.
After a yet another trying morning I knew I could not proceed any more with my tasks until I had sat with Jesus. After a difficult week-end and still feeling tired I poured my heart out to Jesus, also knowing that my attitude wasn't right either. Straight away though Jesus comforted me with His word. No condemnation just His Truth and guidance.
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light". Matthew 11 v 28 - 30.
JAnnJulyan@gmail.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep John 21 v 15 - 16
This is the word I received awhile back "Feed my sheep".
As I read the scripture it struck me for the first time that Jesus first says "feed my lambs" once but "feed my sheep" twice. When I saw "feed my lambs" I stopped at this point, then realised that the Lord actually said "feed my sheep".
It is important to listen to the Lord to hear exactly what He is saying. He was asking me to feed his sheep not lambs.
It's not just a whimsical thing to step out on your own and do your own thing the directions must come from the Lord guided by the Holy Spirit in line with His Word.
This comes from having a close relationship with God. Talking to him, praying, meditating on His word and getting to know that still small voice amidst the clattering of noisome pestilence in our world.
Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him. If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my feet. . John 13 v 8-9.
There are many Christians who profess to be Christians but Gods Word even tells us how we are to know the true believers from the liars. "By their fruit you will know them"
"He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him". 1 John 1 v 4
Jesus warns us that we are sent out as sheep among wolves but Praise God he has not left us wandering aimlessly without a guide. Jesus is the Good Shepherd and his parting gift of the Holy Spirit guides us into all Truth and is with us until the end of the age.
As we daily submit our lives into Jesus hands and allow Him to have the reins he will tell us what too say and do. Do not worry before hand what you will say because the Holy Spirit will bring to remembrance all the things you need to say.
After a yet another trying morning I knew I could not proceed any more with my tasks until I had sat with Jesus. After a difficult week-end and still feeling tired I poured my heart out to Jesus, also knowing that my attitude wasn't right either. Straight away though Jesus comforted me with His word. No condemnation just His Truth and guidance.
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light". Matthew 11 v 28 - 30.
JAnnJulyan@gmail.com
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Do You Worry?
Jesus said, "do not worry about your life." Matt 6:25
Do not worry! Sounds simple enough? However, I really believe that as women we have a particularly hard time with this one. If something is not going right we feel we need to fix it. Everyone looks to us to get it all together.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11
Sometimes, all we need to do is give it to God and let Him take care of the outcome. He knows the thoughts He has for us and they are good. He has a plan and a hope for our future.
It is hard for us to surrender control. When we become saved, the Holy Spirit comes into our hearts and wants full control. James 4:6 says, "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble." He will help us humble our hearts and give Him the freedom to work in our lives. We are meant to live free from worry and stress and anything else that can weigh us down. When we try to fix it all, we weigh ourselves down.
We don't have to struggle, worry, figure everything out or even try to make things happen. God wants us to let Him carry the load. Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7).
Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? 28 "So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Matt. 6:27-29
We cannot accomplish anything by worrying. If there is something worrying you right now, Stop! Trust Him! Worry will not fix it! Have Faith In God! "Consider the lilies", Leave tomorrow and the rest to God.
If God cares enough to see to it that flowers and birds have what they need, would God do any less for you?
THE BOTTOM LINE IS:
"do not worry about your life." Matt 6:25; Be anxious for nothing (Philippians 4:6), and be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10), for He will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Him, because he trusts in Him" (Isaiah 26:3).
By Pat Murray
www.harvestladiesministry.com
Please include this link within body of article if copying to another website or reprinting
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
Do not worry! Sounds simple enough? However, I really believe that as women we have a particularly hard time with this one. If something is not going right we feel we need to fix it. Everyone looks to us to get it all together.
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11
Sometimes, all we need to do is give it to God and let Him take care of the outcome. He knows the thoughts He has for us and they are good. He has a plan and a hope for our future.
It is hard for us to surrender control. When we become saved, the Holy Spirit comes into our hearts and wants full control. James 4:6 says, "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble." He will help us humble our hearts and give Him the freedom to work in our lives. We are meant to live free from worry and stress and anything else that can weigh us down. When we try to fix it all, we weigh ourselves down.
We don't have to struggle, worry, figure everything out or even try to make things happen. God wants us to let Him carry the load. Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7).
Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature? 28 "So why do you worry about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin; 29 and yet I say to you that even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Matt. 6:27-29
We cannot accomplish anything by worrying. If there is something worrying you right now, Stop! Trust Him! Worry will not fix it! Have Faith In God! "Consider the lilies", Leave tomorrow and the rest to God.
If God cares enough to see to it that flowers and birds have what they need, would God do any less for you?
THE BOTTOM LINE IS:
"do not worry about your life." Matt 6:25; Be anxious for nothing (Philippians 4:6), and be still and know that He is God (Psalm 46:10), for He will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Him, because he trusts in Him" (Isaiah 26:3).
By Pat Murray
www.harvestladiesministry.com
Please include this link within body of article if copying to another website or reprinting
Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com-CHRISTIAN WRITERS
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