I Tried!

Recently I heard a story about the great Kathryn Kuhlman. It was about an interview somebody did of her, and during that interview she was asked, "When you finally see Jesus, what will you say?" Her reply rocked my world. It is the most perfect response we could all give. What do we say to Jesus? I . . . . tried!

If we can just keep going! Don't give up. Things are going to get hard. Trials will come, make no mistake. Living for God is not a happy picnic all the time. But if we just keep going, keep trying, then some day we will look into the precious eyes of our Savior Jesus Christ.

Doing all to STAND!

Hell is for Real

I was recently fortunate to read a blog of somebody somewhere between here and yonder. It seems they were once young, they are old now, and they know the truth, or at least did at one time. They pronounced “there would be no eternal hell, no punishment for the wicked. There is no reason to repent. Don’t buy into fear and hell and sin.” My spirit was grieved. This world is so deceived! I pray for you, who do not believe. Grace is great but not eternal!

There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day:   And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores,   And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.   And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried;   And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.   And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.   But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.   And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.   Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father’s house:   For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.   Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.   And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.   And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

Luke 16:19‭-‬31 KJV

http://bible.com/1/luk.16.19-31.KJV

Word Power!

Malachi 2:17
New American Standard Bible
You have wearied the LORD with your words. Yet you say, "How have we wearied Him?" In that you say, "Everyone who does evil is good in the sight of the LORD, and He delights in them," or, "Where is the God of justice?"

Psalm 19:14 Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.

Matthew 12:36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment

For by your words, you shall be justified.
Be careful little mouth
Be careful little eyes

Proverbs 18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue

There was once a bunch of tiny frogs, who arranged a running competition. The goal was to reach the top of a very high tower. A big crowd gathered around the tower to see the race and cheer on the contestants.

The race began…

No one in the crowd really believed that the tiny frogs would reach the top of the tower. They shouted, “Oh, way too difficult!!! They will NEVER make it to the top” and “Not a chance. The tower is too high”.

The tiny frogs began collapsing, one by one except for those who, in a fresh tempo, were climbing higher and higher….

The crowd continued to yell, “It’s too difficult! No one will make it!”

More tiny frogs got tired and gave up… But one continued higher and higher. This one wouldn’t give up! And he reached the top.

Everyone wanted to know how this one frog managed such a great feat.

His secret? This little frog was deaf!!

The wisdom of this story is:

Ignore the pessimism of others. It can take your dreams from you. Stay positive.

-Author Unknown

Da Da: most babies can utter these 2 simple syllables, which brings a grown man to tears. Daddy is proud! Words contain power, like dynamite!

Words can start fights
Words can bring peace

Genesis 3:1 the deceitful words were believed, and brung awful results for the rest of eternity.

Someone is listening, and believing your words.

In the book of Job, his closes friends only had discouraging words in his time of trouble.
●What effect is your words having on        others?
●Are you a builder or a breaker? Do you build people up, or tear them down?
●People will follow words of faith, encouragment, and promise!

Let our words be acceptable in the sight of our Lord!

Jesus words bring power
Jesus words bring healing
Jesus words bring love

Jesus words, "It is finished" declared the debt of sin to be eliminated.

Jesus has the last say.

Psalm 139:4 For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether.

Will Faith Continue

“I tell you that He will bring about justice for them quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?” Luke 18:8

There are children in our church who have much faith. This faith goes beyond Sunday School class, they are being taught at home.

William Brinnum
Aimee McPherson

Why is God not moving the way He did in the past?

Knowlege of God is not movement of God.

Can people see Jesus inside of you, and your church?

Faith must be lived out in the lives of people

Only God can measure faith.

(When God dips his pen of love in my heart )

Looking the part does not ensure your heart

People are not led by faith anymore. In this age, we are driven about by lust.
I wanna, I wanna, I wanna

Matthew 17:4

Bring him to me

We need to be able to bring people into the presence of God

Smith Wigglesworth was promised an entire train.

http://www.smithwigglesworth.com/sermons/eif10.htm

God, use us to bring souls to you!

Matthew 17:19
The disciples asked, why could we not do that?

"Because of your unbelief"

Your faith is alive. You are never alone.

Discipline yourself in prayer, fasting, ect

Everybody doesn't have faith. The Bible is full of people with no faith.

Faith comes from hearing

You must act upon what God puts in your heart. Allow Holy Spirit to deal with your heart.

The cross must be heart knowlege, not just head knowlege.

Faith is like a small baby. You must tend to it. It's fragile.

Be careful how you treat your faith

Romans 12:1

Replenish the Light

Colossians 3

 1  If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.

 2  Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.

 3  For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

 4  When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.

 5  Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:

 6  For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:

 7  In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.

 8  But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.

 9  Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds

Why do we need TRUE CHRISTIANS today?

*When is the last time you heard the prayer request, "Pray for me, that I'll be saved?"

*The lost need a place to fund Jesus

*Your life should be hidden in Christ, so His light can shine through you

*There is nobody too far gone, for Jesus to save

*Are you influencing your world, or is your world influencing you?

*When Godly men and women die, we lose some light. We need the light replenished.

*Will you be that light?

*Value the light God has put before you. Sister Stewart, Sister Linda, Sister Holbrooks

*When you need prayer, you find someone who lives in the light.

*People often weep at funerals, over conviction and guilt over things they did not do

*John Bunyan spent 12 years in prison, because he refused to say he would not preach. He wouldn't let his light go out!

*The church should grieve when light is lost

*John the Baptist was among the greatest men born of women. He was a great light!

*Walk as great lights

*This little light of mine. I'm gonna let it shine

*God has called you to be children of light

Revelations 21:24
 24  And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it.

 Revelation 21:23-27 ESV

And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb. By its light will the nations walk, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it, and its gates will never be shut by day—and there will be no night there. They will bring into it the glory and the honor of the nations. But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb's book of life.

Stir the Pot

6  Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands

If you don't stir what's in the pot, it does not turn into what you want to make. Stew vs layered casserole

Look at your family while in the alter. Pray God do it again. Stir them.

When you are saved, you still go to the alter, and pray for the grace of God to cover you

God wants to grant you GREAT GRACE

God puts the gift, but it's up to us to stir it.

1 Thess 5:19 Quench not

Sin is the face only the grace of God can love.

The only way to conger sin is to stay stirred.

Overcome by the grace of God.

Stop! Story of police and man who California rolled through stop signs. Ticket after ticket, the man wouldn't stop. Heed God's warning today.

Some preachers snuff out every word that doesn't flow through them. God says quench me not!

We prophecy by faith. We know in part.

I'm sending the Fire by Eddie James

It's a terrible thing when you begin to break the promises you have made to God.

Samson was chosen by God

His sin wounded him

The grace of God allowed his hair to grow again. His strength to grow again. When we fail, grace allows us another day.

How long will you continue to give in to the flesh man?

Worship breaks the chains of bond age

Power of God = Grace of God

Worship is the door to the presence of God

Worship - honor with extravagant love

Do you desire to love Him more?

It is possible for a person to worship God, but never commit to Him.

Are the Alters Desolate

Daniel 9:24-27
24Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.
25Know therefore and understand, that from the going forth of the commandment to restore and to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince shall be seven weeks, and threescore and two weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.
26And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.
27And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.

Daniel the prophet, approximately 83 years old, in the 67th year of exile, studied the scriptures, and fasted. As he read Jeremiah, he understood the meaning of the Lord. If there would be 70 years of exile, the time is at hand.

Are your alters abandoned and desolate? Who is praying for the sins of the land? Who is repenting for the nation?

Jesus, even now, stands at the door. It is being prophesied by many, dreams and visions are coming to the nations, I COME QUICKLY!

Before the Jews were taken into captivity, they were warned. It was prophesied and told to them, but they did not heed the warnings. The enemy came in like a flood and devoured.

Will you be caught unaware? The 10 virgins knew the bridegroom was coming, but they were not prepared.

Prepare your alter. Build it up and repair it. Burrow deep in your prayer closet and cry for your family, your nation, your brothers and sister of the persecuted church. When He comes back, be found weeping before the alter.

Mat 24:6
And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
Mat 24:7
For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
Mat 24:8
All these are the beginning of sorrows.
Mat24:9
Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake.

Do You Know Him?

John|5:39  Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have
eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.
  John|5:40  And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.
  John|5:41  I receive not honour from men.
  John|5:42  But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in
you.
  John|5:43  I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not:
if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.
  John|5:44  How can ye believe, which receive honour one of
another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only?

Many know the God of the Bible, yet they do not know him, why do men not desire his presence?

If my question offends you, why are you offended? God offends the mind often to reveal the heart. The Pharisees knew the word and where orthodox, yet they didn't know him. Jesus is a stumbling block to some because they don't know him, yet to others he is a stepping stone. With Jesus you will see the father.

Take a few minutes and know Him!

Spring Break Revival

Pastors Corner

John|15:1  I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.
  John|15:2  Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away:
and every ®branch¯ that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring
forth more fruit.
  John|15:3  Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken
unto you.
  John|15:4  Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear
fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye
abide in me.
  John|15:5  I am the vine, ye ®are¯ the branches: He that abideth in
me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye
can do nothing.

I'm depending on the Holy Spirit to do his part, God is depending on us to do our part.the fruit we bare is a result of  abiding in Christ. I appreciate the real fruit that God has grown in this church, and these branches i see in the spirit have produced fruit, and have been pruned to produce more fruit. devil we don't make artificial fruit here. i see branches with clusters of fruit. Jesus is growing his church through the Holy Spirit, let the river of the Spirit flow.

Pastors Corner

1 Timothy|4:1  Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the
latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to
seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
  1 Timothy|4:2  Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience
seared with a hot iron;
 

When you cauterize a wound you stop the bleeding, The Holy Ghost has dealt with my heart this week about false doctrine entering the church. People don't realize the dangers of false doctrines. There is a seducing spirit sweeping the church world today. Many resist the Holy Ghost and settle for the Jezebel spirit "the seductress". A child is naturally attracted to its mother proverbs 5 tells us. The seductress has been in place so long that people are one with her. They are satisfied with her. She is mother to the defiled. Jude said to the pure they are always pure, but unto the defiled they will always be defiled. Pastor has a stern warning stay away from cheap Grace. Jesus died for us, now lets live for him. 

Hot Bones

We have all heard the scripture that says 'Your Word is a fire! Shut up in my bones!' But there is also one in Psalms that says 'My heart was hot within me!'

I believe as Christians, we should get a little excited! We should come out of a red hot prayer meeting with a desire to influence this world for Jesus. Don't be ashamed of Him. Learn about your Lord. The Bible is such an awesome book that shows us God's heart, his plan, his loves, the things He hates (yes He hates!), and much more. I challenge you, this new year, take time to read your Bible, and pray more. Just kneel down every day in front of a Bible and talk to Him who created you!

Holy Hunger

Have you ever met someone, or heard about someone, who had to make themselves eat? I know it sounds strange, but I have a daughter who is that way. When she was a child, I had to absolutely make her eat the first couple of bites. Why? Because she didn't understand that she was hungry. After I got her started eating, she was just fine. She would eat everything on her plate. But it was just getting her just get started! I can see a lot of our spiritual lives in the same condition. We are complacent, we don't read our Bibles, we don't pray like we should do, and we don't go to church like we should. I believe that every Christian has that desire to do better, it's all just about getting started. It's about taking that first bite. You have to make yourself sometimes get disciplined enough to commit to God. You may feel like you're not getting anything out of the Bible you're reading, but you must take it on faith that you are. After a few force feedings so to speak, you will find yourself with a hunger. What better time to start than now, at the beginning of a new year. You can find Bible plans all over the Internet, Bible apps that will even read them to you. In this day and hour, there is no reason not to feed our spirit. Do a little research, take a little time, pray about it, and commit to a better year!

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bible/id282935706?mt=8  you version

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/bible.is/id378075859?mt=8 bible is

Have You Lost Your First Love?

Rev 2:4  Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.

Rev 2:5  Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.

Rev 2:6  But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.

Rev 2:7  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

It's easy in this day and hour to lose your first love. Who is your first love? It's not your husband or boyfriend. Not even your mom or dad. It is 'Psa 144:2  My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and he in whom I trust;who subdueth my people under me.' God loved you before your mom knew of you. God loved you as Jesus was born. God loved you every step up Golgatha. God loved you with every drop of blood. And God loves you today!

So how do we lose our first love, if all that is true? It's not the love of God that's lost. It is us. Our part. You can love somebody with all your heart, treat them like gold, and shower them with gifts, but you can never MAKE someone love you. I'm sure we all know of friends who were madly in love with someone, only to find the love not returned, and the relationship over. It's devastating to love and not be loved.

But with God there is always hope. Just the fAct that you are reading this shows you have a hunger. A desire to love again. Our Father is different from others we have loved. He won't leave once he knows you don't care. You will never wake up one day and ask yourself, 'I wonder what ever happened to God? I sure loved Him at one time. May I was too quick to walk away.'

Every time you think of Him, He's there.

Every word you speak to Him, he hears.

Every time you love Him, he loves you too.

Rom 5:8  But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Every time we walk away, he stands there waiting for us to return. Don't you want to go back? Doesn't your soul long to be loved, and to love, more than you crave your next breath? It's not a mate you need, not a pet or a kid. Your soul was created to love God. You were built to worship. 

So turn around today. Just take a step. Talk to Him. Find your Bible. Turn on some worship music and just love Him for a few minutes. It's life-changing!

To read your bible: https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+3&version=KJV

To find a worship song:  http://youtu.be/4X1oXytLKW8

To talk to Him, just open your mouth and begin. . . .

Judgment Seat

The Judgment seat of Christ

Righteousness-free gift from God
Holiness-must be perfected by us in the spirit

Judgment seat of Christ happens after the rapture, to reward believers based on how faithfully we have served Him.

We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ

Bad-fallos 5337 easy worthless no account

Is our deeds worthy?

Controlled by the Love of Christ
11 Therefore, because we* know the fear of the Lord, we are attempting to persuade people, but we are revealed to God, and I hope to be revealed in your consciences. 12 We are not commending ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to boast about us, in order that you may have an answer for those who boast in appearance and not in heart. 13 For if we are out of our senses, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you. 14 For the love of Christ controls us, because we* have concluded this: that one died for all; as a result all died. 15 And he died for all, in order that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for the one who died for them and was raised.

What will be judged?
  How well do we obey the great commission?
  How well do we live victorious over sin?
  How well do you control your tongue and your behavior toward others?
           We must surrender our tongue. Even to son or daughter.
            Every idle word will be judged.
  How is our conduct and attitudes towards others?
  Personal characteristics
           Do you do what God has called you to do?
           Is there wasted talent and opportunities
What is the greatest asset you have? Your children! Take them with you to heaven
We will be judged according to our loose living. Don't lose your reward.

Lack of spirituality
What you pay the most attention to is what grows the most
The is a call for you today, to grow in the Word.
Spirit and truth must come together
Spiritual traits -disobedience and rebellion
Do you yield to the spirit? Take not of what the Pastor is teaching.
A tree can be absolutely healthy but yield no fruit

Athletes deny themselves some pleasures in order to better themselves.

Crowns to be handed out that day
1. Incorruptible crown-perserverence, self denial
2. Crown of rejoicing-soul winners crown
3. Crown of righteousness-self restraint, instill Word of God
4. Crown of life-endure temptation, tribulation, and suffering, give your life for sake of gospel
5. Crown of glory

If you ever position yourself against the lost, The Lord said I will choose the lost.

Spiritual Wars

Ephesians 6:12King James Version (KJV) 12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. I have heard this verse most of my life, but until just recently never really contemplated what it meant. Are you ever going about your day, doing the things that you do, and suddenly a verse jumps out at you! We all go through trials,  wars in our lives, but did we ever stop and think that all we are going through is spiritual? If you seem to be going through many trials, I urge you to stop and take a look, listen! As a friend earlier told me, and see if God might be trying to tell you something. I believe that everything that happens is spiritual. We need to pray more, study more, and listen more!

There has been a lot in the news lately, and I don't know if it is true or not, about a soldier deserting in time of war. If you are a Christian, you're in God's army. Be sure you have your weapon ready and are ready for battle. I don't want to stand before God and him tell me that was a deserter. We all want to hear those words well done. If your ears are listening in the spirit, I know you will hear that battle cry, charge!

What is baptism?

Baptism I have always been curious about baptism. Why did they want to be baptized? Where did John the baptist get this idea? So I have been doing a little studying on it. I would love to hear your questions and comments as well! iBaptism simply means to “immerse or overwhelm.” John didn’t sprinkle when he came baptizing. As was the custom in some other Jewish ceremonial washings,John completely immersed those he baptized. “Naturally,therefore,the baptism was not a mere sprinkling with water,but a bath in which his whole body was bathed.” (Barclay) ii. Baptism was practiced in the Jewish community already in the form of ceremonial immersions; but typically,it was only among Gentiles who wished to become Jews. For a Jew in John’s day to submit to baptism was essentially to say,“I confess that I am as far away from God as a Gentile and I need to get right with Him.” This was a real work of the Holy Spirit. iii. John’s baptism might have been related to the Jewish practice of baptizing Gentile converts,or to some of the ceremonial washings practiced by the Jews of that day. Though it may have some links,at the same time is was unique - so unique that John simply became known as “the Baptizer.” If there were a lot of people doing that,it wouldn’t be a unique title. iv. Is Christian baptism - the baptism we do today - just like John’s? Christian baptism is like John’s in the sense that it demonstrates repentance,but it is also more. It is being baptized into Christ,that is,into His death and resurrection (Romans 6:3).

How to Walk

How to walk in victory? This question has been answered in my life recently. We are told to walk in the spirit, that way you won't fill the lusts of your flesh. But let this become a revolation to you. . . You can not walk in victory until you walk in the spirit. And you can't walk in the spirit until you are full of the spirit! You must be full to the brim with the Holy Spirit! When you don't pray every day, you are saying, God, I don't need your help. I can do it alone. How prideful! How full of unbelief! If we believe God is who He says He is, we would put our full trust and dependence in Him!

Letter to Ephesus

 Revelation 2:1-7 Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: and hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.

Consecration

Its a word we all hear a lot in the religious circles but what does it really mean? I have been studying on consecration recently and found it to be very rewarding as well as very convicting. Consecration is a willing decision on your part to offer God every part of your life. At first glance we think, that's no big deal. We all did that when we got saved. Right? Wrong! The prayer of consecration means you hold nothing back. If God asks you to give something up you don't ask why? You don't take a poll among your friends to see if they think it is wrong. Consecration is a willingness to please him. It is a deliberate decision to give ourselves to our Lord.

Romans 12:1 I appeal to you therefore brethren and beg you in view of all the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication.

In your thoughts you may fully intend to give it to God at a later date. But just remember that good intentions do not equal total obedience.  And total obedience is what the Lord requires.

Decide today to give all of yourself to God. Let him in every room of your heart. Give Him free reign to rearrange and cleanse as He sees necessary.

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Its a Good Thing!

Psalm 92:1-5 KJV

It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night, Upon an instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery; upon the harp with a solemn sound. For thou, Lord, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands. O Lord, how great are thy works! and thy thoughts are very deep.

As I was reading the other day in my study I came across the scripture talking about how it is a good thing. There are so many things that we can't decide whether good or bad these days. So many decisions are hard to make. What one person believes is wrong, another person believes right. It almost seems like there are no absolutes anymore. It  is all a matter of opinion. But whether you like it or not there are certain truths in the bible. The Word of God is absolute. It will never change no matter what the circumstance. It is our responsibility to learn the Word of God so we can know the will of God. And one absolute right that we are taught here in the Psalms is that it is a good thing to praise the Lord! If your world is upside down today you can bank on this one concept: it is a good thing the praise the lord! Raise your hands and begin to worship the Lord. Take your focus off of your problems and put it on Him. Because in the end He is all that matters! So take a minute right now. Make the king of kings your priority. Worship him for who He is. And you will find that everything else will fall into place.

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God is Faithful

1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

God has been ministering to me on this verse for quite some time. God is faithful. In a day and hour when it seems that everything is up in the air, when there are no absolutes, we can trust in one thing: God is faithful! What He says He will do is absolute.

Your children may lie to you. Your job may deceive you. Your government may stretch the truth. But I am thankful that God is faithful. His Word can be taken to the bank.

Spend some time today in His Word. Let Him speak to your heart through His Word. He is your strength in times of weakness. He is your power when you struggle with daily battles. He is your sword and shield. Trust in Him today!

All about Him

2 Samuel 22:32-37 KJV

For who is God, save the Lord? and who is a rock, save our God? God is my strength and power: and he maketh my way perfect. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet: and setteth me upon my high places. He teacheth my hands to war; so that a bow of steel is broken by mine arms. Thou hast also given me the shield of thy salvation: and thy gentleness hath made me great. Thou hast enlarged my steps under me; so that my feet did not slip.


When we find ourselves in those slippery places of temptation, it is important to understand that the power to stand does not come from us. I love the song that says, "I am weak but thou art strong!" It is not my strength. Its not about me! Why is it that we believe it has to be God and only God through Jesus that saves us. But then we start changing our beliefs somewhere down the road to a salvation based on our own strength.

I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. Its Him. It always has been Him. It will always be Him. Don't rely on your own strength. Don't base your spirituality on the strength you feel. Its not about you. Its about faith. Trust in His strength and stop trying to walk alone.

Be Blessed!

I have been thinking today about the sermon on the mount by Jesus in Matthew chapter 5. He begins the chapter with the famous "blessed" statements known as the Beatitudes.

Matthew 5:3-10 KJV

Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

But then I can just feel the whole mood of the chapter change. He begins it with "blessed are ye!" I love this! Tough times will come. But if you can just endure, blessings will also surely come. Don't be disheartened by things that are going on down here. Keep your eyes heavenward. Hold on through your trials and persecutions. Jesus said "Blessed are ye!" You are blessed. If you are abiding in Christ, you are blessed.

Matthew 5:11-12 KJV

Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

So many times I’ve questioned certain circumstances Or things I could not understand Many times in trials, weakness blurs my vision And my frustrations get so out of hand It’s then I am reminded I’ve never been forsaken I’ve never had to stand the test alone As I look at all the victories, the Spirit rises up in me It’s through the fire my weakness is made strong

And He never promised the cross would not get heavy and the hill would not be hard to climb He never offered victory without fighting but He said help would always come in time Just remember when you’re standing in the valley of decision and the adversary says give in Just hold on, our Lord will show up and He will take you through the fire again

I know within myself that I would surely perish But if I trust the hand of God, He’ll shield the flames again

And He never promised the cross would not get heavy and the hill would not be hard to climb Just hold on, our Lord will show up and He will take you through the fire again Just hold on, our Lord will show up and He will take you through the fire again

A Life Worth Living!

Luke 2:49 KJV

And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business?

It should be our goal to honor our Heavenly Father in everything we do. Can you say honestly that those closest to you expect Godly living from you? The people who live in your house? Your next door neighbors? We should make it our goal to bring Him honor by the life that we live.

1 John 2:5-6 KJV

But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.

Think for a moment about your days. How do you spend your time? Are you walking as He would walk? Sometimes we struggle with the daily call to abide. This world is full of sin and corruption. But if we stay on our knees in prayer, we find new strength to overcome!

Does this mean you will never again have to battle? Will all your days be sugar and spice and all that is nice after you decide to live for God? Of course not! You will still battle. Life will still be a fight. But the difference is, you will never be in the battle alone again!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from the Holland Pentecostal Church of God! This was taken at our annual pizza Christmas party.

Who was Mary, Mother of Jesus?

Mary was a young girl when we first hear of her in scripture. More than likely about 12 or 13 years old. She was engaged to be married to Joseph the carpenter.

The angel Gabriel appeared to her with a very important message. The sight of the angel scared her. (As it would any of us!) She was told that she had been chosen to be the mother of the Son of God. The Messiah who would deliver mankind.

Although she was shocked and afraid, her answer was one of obedience and faith.

Although Mary's calling was one of honor, it also held much pain and trials. No matter what your calling, there will also ne times of persecution and hardships.

Just keep your eyes focused on the Savior, Jesus Christ, and everything else will always be in perspective!



Mary, did you know That your baby boy Would someday walk on water? Mary did you know That your baby boy Will save our sons and daughters? Did you know That your baby boy Has come to make you new? This child that you've delivered Will soon deliver you.

Mary did you know That your baby boy Will give sight to a blind man? Mary did you know That your baby boy Will calm the storm with his hand? Did you know that your baby boy Has walked where angels trod? When you kiss your little baby You've kissed the face of God. The blind will see The deaf will hear The dead will live again The lame will leap The dumb will speak The praises of the Lamb

Mary did you know That your baby boy Is Lord of all creation? Mary did you know That your baby boy Will one day rule the nations? Did you know That your baby boy Is heaven's perfect Lamb? This sleeping child you're holding Is the Great I Am

Song lyrics of Mary Did You Know?

Go

Matthew 28:19-20 KJV

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Mark 16:15 KJV

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

Romans 1:15-16 KJV

So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

Soulwinning is not just for missionaries, preachers, and evangelists. If you are saved, you should have a deep longing in your soul to see the lost saved. Being saved means that Jesus is living in your heart. And the one desire of Jesus is to see a lost humanity accept His gift.

Soulwinning is not complicated. God made sure it all comes down to a simple message: Jesus loves you. Just let others see what God has done and is doing in your life.

Be a living testimony. Keep it simple. And start obeying the "Go Ye!"

Light in the Darkness

2 Corinthians 6:14 KJV

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

We are called to be in the world but not part of the world. We are called to witness to the lost but not let the lost impact us.

We must be very careful who we let influence our lives. Who influences us the most? Our closest friends. Our boyfriends and girlfriends. The people you surround yourself with have a powerful ability to help your walk with God, or hurt it.

Do your friends love God and desire His Word? Do you surround yourself with people who can teach you and encourage you in the Lord?

Be a light in this world. But be very careful not to become a part of the darkness.

Let Jesus shine through you. Love Him more and more every day. Thirst for His Word.

How? Surround yourself with Godly people! Let God increase in you daily.

God Knows!

Jeremiah 29:11  For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.

When a tragedy or situation hits us and we didn’t see it coming we tend to blame others and ourselves. We hardly ever see it as God putting it  in our path to make us strong. We don’t know what God has planned for us in the end. Even though it is expected, it is also unexpected. That’s why we should prepare ourselves today for what we may face tomorrow.  God knows what is going to be in our paths. We may feel like our situations are making us weak. That’s when we need to ask for strength. Believe me, it works! We are given the ability to call on God for strength and wisdom at the time of need. Think about it. Ever been prayed through and went to preach to someone about the glory, miracles, grace and love of God and didn’t know what to say? Didn’t think so! When situations hit we need to thank God for the end because He already knows. Even when we don’t see ourselves as ourselves, He sees us for who we are and knows exactly where we are at. He knows where we are going, and where we have been. He knows that our situations are going to make us strong. We’ve never faced one battle alone. He has always been there. God has a plan for everyone and everyone is important to God. He loves the unlovable people because He knows where they are going to be in the end.

God Is Faithful

God is faithful,by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 1:9). The apostle does not say,"You are faithful." Alas! the faithfulness of man is a very unreliable affair; it is mere vanity. He does not say,"You have faithful ministers to lead and guide you,and therefore I trust you will be safe." Oh,no! if we are kept by men we shall be but ill kept. He puts it,"God is faithful." If we are found faithful,it will be because God is faithful. On the faithfulness of our covenant God the whole burden of our salvation must rest. On this glorious attribute of God the matter hinges. We are variable as the wind,frail as a spider's web,weak as water. No dependence can be placed upon our natural qualities,or our spiritual attainments; but God abideth faithful. He is faithful in His love; He knows no variableness,neither shadow of turning. He is faithful to His purpose; He doth not begin a work and then leave it undone. He is faithful to His relationships; as a Father He will not renounce His children,as a friend He will not deny His people,as a Creator He will not forsake the work of His own hands. He is faithful to His promises,and will never allow one of them to fail to a single believer. He is faithful to His covenant,which He has made with us in Christ Jesus,and ratified with the blood of His sacrifice. He is faithful to His Son,and will not allow His precious blood to be spilled in vain. He is faithful to His people to whom He has promised eternal life,and from whom He will not turn away.



Spurgeon

The One Who Came Back

 

Luke|17:11  And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he

passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.

  Luke|17:12  And as he entered into a certain village, there met him

ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:

  Luke|17:13  And they lifted up ®their¯ voices, and said, Jesus,

Master, have mercy on us.

  Luke|17:14  And when he saw ®them,¯ he said unto them, Go show

yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went,

they were cleansed.

  Luke|17:15  And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned

back, and with a loud voice glorified God,

  Luke|17:16  And fell down on ®his¯ face at his feet, giving him

thanks: and he was a Samaritan.

  Luke|17:17  And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed?

but where ®are¯ the nine?

  Luke|17:18  There are not found that returned to give glory to God,

save this stranger.

  Luke|17:19  And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath

made thee whole.

Here in this setting of scripture Jesus was passing on ordinary day through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.  There in a certain village, he met ten lepers which stood afar off. I’m so thankful I didn’t have to stand afar off like these ten lepers. Jesus couldn’t catch my sin disease of leprosy; he was the cure for my disease. Notice next they lifted up their voices and said Jesus, master have mercy on us.  I believe these lepers were not asking for sympathy they needed Jesus to change their life. They were tired of the lifestyle they were living. They lived in a time was not a lot of medical science going on no hospital or clinics as we know today. They just knew to say Jesus, Master have mercy on us. They were desperate for the touch of the master.  And he saw them. Jesus sees us were ever we are at, we just have to lift up our voice and cry Jesus, Master have mercy on me.  He told them to go and shew themselves unto the priest. And as they went they were cleansed. These lepers were obedient to what the master said, they went.  Then notice what happen one of them saw that he was healed turned back and with a loud voice glorified God.Oh if the church of the living God would publicize what Christ has cleansed us from, let the body of Christ not hide what the Master has cleansed us from. The one leper fell down on his face at Jesus feet giving him thanks. He took time to turn around stop everything he was doing just to give thanks. Jesus I give u thanks this Thanksgiving season let me join the millions over time to turn around and glorify you. I want to fall at your feet and worship you for all you’ve done in my life.  I was just like those lepers, one day Jesus passed by and I lifted up my voice and said Jesus Master have mercy on m!

    

Changed Life

If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new —2 Corinthians 5:17

What understanding do you have of the salvation of your soul? The work of salvation means that in your real life things are dramatically changed. You no longer look at things in the same way. Your desires are new and the old things have lost their power to attract you. One of the tests for determining if the work of salvation in your life is genuine is— has God changed the things that really matter to you? If you still yearn for the old things, it is absurd to talk about being born from above— you are deceiving yourself. If you are born again, the Spirit of God makes the change very evident in your real life and thought. And when a crisis comes, you are the most amazed person on earth at the wonderful difference there is in you. There is no possibility of imagining that you did it. It is this complete and amazing change that is the very evidence that you are saved.

What difference has my salvation and sanctification made? For instance, can I stand in the light of 1 Corinthians 13 , or do I squirm and evade the issue? True salvation, worked out in me by the Holy Spirit, frees me completely. And as long as I “walk in the light as He is in the light” (1 John 1:7), God sees nothing to rebuke because His life is working itself into every detailed part of my being, not on the conscious level, but even deeper than my consciousness.

My Utmost for His Highest

Love Is

1 Corinthians 13:1-13 NKJV

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. For we know in part and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

The Ten Commandments

Exodus 20:1-17 KJV

And God spake all these words, saying, I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: For in six days the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it. Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. Thou shalt not kill. Thou shalt not commit adultery. Thou shalt not steal. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's.


1. You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand {generations} of those who love me and keep my commandments.

2. You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.

3. Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.

4. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.

5. Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.

6. You shall not murder.

7. You shall not commit adultery.

8. You shall not steal.

9. You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.

10. You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”

Watch Your Mouth by Katie Romero

Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grevous words stir up anger.

As a child, my husband would always have to recite this verse to his mother before he went to bed. He had two sisters, you see, and sibling rivalry was obviously a factor, as it usually is in any family. "A soft answer turneth away wrath" which means if you're nice to others, you usually get "nice" in return (and I use the word usually very specifically). Be nice to your fellow man. "But grevous words stir up anger" which means if you're "mean" so to speak, you usually get "mean" in return.

Eph 4:26-27 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.

He would always say that verse before heading to bed, and understand to basically obey the golden rule. "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Therefore his siblings would not fight with each other (usually). God does not want us to fight amongst ourselves. He wants us to treat a perfect stranger as you would treat your most loved one. Treat others as you would treat yourself, with respect and honor. God honors those with the patience to turn away from an argument and the knowledge to know the best way to handle a situation. "A soft answer turneth away wrath; but grevous words stir up anger.

There is Hope

There IS hope for those who trust in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. This world has a way of getting us down, but we must keep the promise in our hearts.

1 Corinthians 15:51-55 KJV

Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?

This is not your home! That is why you don't fit in. That's why you feel like a stranger. An outcast. Keep your head up and your eyes on the eastern skies. We are not promised tomorrow. Keep Jesus alive and real in your heart.

My Number 1

Psalm 101:1-4 KJV

I will sing of mercy and judgment: unto thee, O Lord, will I sing. I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person.


Faithful believers make it a priority to please God in their homes. The very purpose and directions for their lives should be to live in true holiness. We must seek God in prayer. Go to God as the true friend He really is. Make him your number 1. Let him be your priority! Make it
your goal to understand His word. Try to walk blameless before God in your home. Do you have lost loved ones living in your home? Let them be a witness to what God is doing in your life! The easiest way to win someone to the kingdom of God is by the life that you live. Guard your heart from evil. Be careful who you let influence you. Make Jesus your number 1!

A New Name

Gal 6:2  Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

We are all brothers and sisters in the family of God. I remember when I got saved, born again, prayed through, a dear sister was at the alter with me. When I opened up my eyes, she was smiling ear to ear. She said, you have a new name now. You are no longer Jody, but SISTER Jody! I was so overwhelmed! I understood so little about it all, but I remember feeling that I had been born into a family.  Never more was I alone in things, I would always have someone to confide in, talk to, laugh with, and cry with. I had a new family.

And here Paul admonishes us to be sure to be there for one another. Just like a Mom or Dad doesn’t like to see brothers and sisters duking it out, arguing, and hating one another, neither does our Heavenly Father! Be there for your brothers and sisters. Pray for them. Laugh with them. Check on them when you don’t hear for them. Cry with them in hard times. And praise God with them when the answer comes! Be a part of this new family you have become a part of.

Why Fear Things, When Our God Is Bigger!

2 Timothy 1:7
"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. "

When I was a little girl, I would always be afraid of Monsters in my closet, or things creeping in the dark. Then my Mother would tell me that when I was afraid, to say this verse over and over again, and my fear would go away. And you know what? It did. Sometimes in our lives we fear things that are unnecessary. Our God is bigger than any "Monster in the closet" or any drug addiction, or any hardship that you may be going through in your life. God has not given us the spirit of fear. He never intended for us to fear anything but himself. He gave us the spirit of power  and love, and a sound mind. Which means he never wants us to worry. Because in His hands, all things are possible, and if you just depend on Him, He will take care of all of your needs.  Our Father always has us in mind. He will check the closet for monsters and he will help you when you think no one cares. God loves you, always has, and always will. So next time you have any worry or trouble or tribulation, remember, God did not give us the spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Something to Think About by Sister Norma Miles

Prayer is not a "spare wheel" that you pull out when in trouble, but it is a "steering wheel" that directs you to the right path throughout.  Do you know why a car's WINDSHIELD is so large & the rear view mirror is so small?  Because our PAST... is not as important as our FUTURE. Look ahead and move on.  All things in life are temporary.  If going well, enjoy it. They will not last forever. If going wrong, don't worry. They can't last long either. Often when we lose hope and think this is the end, GOD smiles from above and says, "Relax, sweetheart, it's just a bend, not the end! When GOD solves your problems, you have faith in HIS abilities; When GOD doesn't solve your problems HE has faith in your abilities.When you pray for others, God listens to you and blesses them.  And sometimes, when you are safe and happy, remember that someone has prayed for you. Worrying does not take away tomorrow's troubles. It takes away today's peace..... Be encouraged!

Partakers of His Suffering

. . . but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings . . . —1 Peter 4:13

If you are going to be used by God, He will take you through a number of experiences that are not meant for you personally at all. They are designed to make you useful in His hands, and to enable you to understand what takes place in the lives of others. Because of this process, you will never be surprised by what comes your way. You say, “Oh, I can’t deal with that person.” Why can’t you? God gave you sufficient opportunities to learn from Him about that problem; but you turned away, not heeding the lesson, because it seemed foolish to spend your time that way.

The sufferings of Christ were not those of ordinary people. He suffered “according to the will of God” (1 Peter 4:19), having a different point of view of suffering from ours. It is only through our relationship with Jesus Christ that we can understand what God is after in His dealings with us. When it comes to suffering, it is part of our Christian culture to want to know God’s purpose beforehand. In the history of the Christian church, the tendency has been to avoid being identified with the sufferings of Jesus Christ. People have sought to carry out God’s orders through a shortcut of their own. God’s way is always the way of suffering—the way of the “long road home.”

Are we partakers of Christ’s sufferings? Are we prepared for God to stamp out our personal ambitions? Are we prepared for God to destroy our individual decisions by supernaturally transforming them? It will mean not knowing why God is taking us that way, because knowing would make us spiritually proud. We never realize at the time what God is putting us through— we go through it more or less without understanding. Then suddenly we come to a place of enlightenment, and realize— “God has strengthened me and I didn’t even know it!”