The Biblical Path of Life

Tag: Lord

  • Seek God and Never Forsake Him

    “… The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you.”

    2 Chronicles 15:2

    King Asa knew what to do when an enemy came up against Judah. He placed his trust in the Lord (see 2 Chronicles 14:11). When he cried out to God, God delivered them. After this great victory, God sent His prophet to them with a message. “1. And the Spirit of God came upon Azariah the son of Oded: 2. And he went out to meet Asa, and said unto him, Hear ye me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin; The LORD is with you, while ye be with him; and if ye seek him, he will be found of you; but if ye forsake him, he will forsake you” (2 Chronicles 15:1-2). Azariah, the son of Oded, reminded God’s people of something they should have already known. Something of which King Solomon had been warned long ago. “And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever” (1 Chronicles 28:9).

    • Know means “to perceive, to understand, acquire knowledge, know.”
    • Perfect means “complete; whole; perfect.”
    • Heart means “the totality of man’s inner or immaterial nature… These are the deepest, innermost feelings.”
    • Willing means “taking pleasure in.”
    • Mind means “the inner person; … The most interesting meaning of the word … is it means ‘one who has died,’ with the emphasis on the personal identity of an individual while alive.”

    These words give us a clear understanding of what God expects.

    • First, they were to know God: more than just a general knowledge of God, but to take time and learn about Him, to actually know Him. Today, we know God because of Jesus. Remember: “6. Jesus saith unto him,I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. 7. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him” (John 14:6-7). Not only is Jesus they way to the Father, when we know Jesus, we know God. Jesus also taught us that we are to learn of Him. “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” (Matthew 11:29).
    • Next, they were to serve Him with a perfect heart: with one’s whole being. Paul gave us the example of Jesus. “21. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: 22. Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: 23. Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously” (1 Peter 2:21-23). When we know Christ, we follow in His steps.
    • One must also have a willing mind: this is one who takes pleasure in the things of God, completely giving up oneself to focus upon the things of God. Remember what the New Testament teaches: “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). Christians allow Christ to live through them. See also Romans 12:1-2.
    • They were also to recognize that God knew the intentions of their hearts and their very thoughts. They could not pretend with God – for He knows all. One cannot be a hypocrite before God. In the New Testament, God still knows the heart. “And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God” (Luke 16:15). We learn that Jesus, too, knows. “And Jesus knowing their thoughts said,Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?” (Matthew 9:4).

    Asa and God’s people were also given a warning: to not forsake God, or He would forsake them. God wanted them to know something: “The LORD is with you, while ye be with him” (see 2 Chronicles 15:2). We are encouraged with the same thought in the New Testament. “Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded” (James 4:8). If there is anything that separates between you and God, eliminate it. Remember: “1. Behold, the LORD’S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: 2. But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear” (Isaiah 59:1-2). If Christians are failing in their relationship with God, it is not only their fault, but it is usually sin that keeps God from hearing. Although Christians have the forgiveness of sin (see Colossians 1:12-14), we must remember: “But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear” (Isaiah 59:2). Our duty is to confess them before God. “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

    Do you seek to know Jesus, following His example?

    Do you recognize when sin separates, understanding you must repent?

  • Thine Are We, and On Thy Side

    “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

    Galatians 2:20

    Most remember David who became the greatest king of Israel. After God removed King Saul for disobedience, remember why God chose David. “And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will” (Acts 13:22). David chose to fulfill God’s will with his life. We are not the only ones who recognize this in David’s life. Remember the following.

    King Saul recognized the Lord was with David and had departed from Saul (see 1 Samuel 18:12). “And Saul sought to smite David even to the wall with the javelin; but he slipped away out of Saul’s presence, and he smote the javelin into the wall: and David fled, and escaped that night” (1 Samuel 19:10). Because of this, David spent many years running for his life. Many men joined David, helping him. During the time David was in Ziklag, another group of men came to help David. Why did these men give of their time, their talents, and their very lives to help David? One man revealed the heart of these men. “Then the spirit came upon Amasai, who was chief of the captains, and he said, Thine are we, David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse: peace, peace be unto thee, and peace be to thine helpers; for thy God helpeth thee. Then David received them, and made them captains of the band” (1 Chronicles 12:18). These men became the captains of the group known as David’s “mighty men”. These men recognized that God was with David, so they chose to be on David’s side and help him. God had touched the hearts of these men to assist David as he followed God.

    When David became king, one of the first things he did was to take Jerusalem, making it the capital of Israel. He then began to build up the cities around. “So David waxed greater and greater: for the LORD of hosts was with him” (1 Chronicles 11:9). We find that these “mighty men” strengthened themselves with David, helping him. “These also are the chief of the mighty men whom David had, who strengthened themselves with him in his kingdom, and with all Israel, to make him king, according to the word of the LORD concerning Israel” (1 Chronicles 11:10). These were amazing warriors! You should take time to read some of the astonishing things they were able to do in battle (see 2 Samuel 23:8-23 and 1 Chronicles 11:10 – 12:40).

    Why is it so crucial to understand the importance of these mighty men in David’s life? God gave these “mighty men” to David, enabling him be the king he was for the people of Israel. Keep in mind that these “mighty men” defeated many enemies with David. They gave their all to follow and serve David, their king. Today, Christian’s are to be just as committed to the Lord as these “mighty men” were to David. Christians are to have the same allegiance toward Jesus that Amasai had toward David, “Thine are we, David, and on thy side” (see 1 Chronicles 12:18). Remember: to live for the Lord is a choice. Christians are to recognize Christ’s ownership of their lives and accept it. It is then we decide: “Lord, I am Yours by right, and I wish to be Yours by choice.” It is only then that we allow Jesus to be the Lord that He is to be in our lives. “2. All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits. 3. Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established” (Proverbs 16:2-3).There are a few of verses that we should memorize to help us keep this mindset.

    • “For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s” (Romans 14:8).
    • “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20).
    • “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1).

    This is only a small sampling of verses encouraging us to commit fully to Jesus, following and serving Him. The following verses could be prayers to help us accomplish this task:

    • “Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name” (Psalm 86:11).
    • “23. Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: 24. And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24). (ALL of Psalm 137 is good.)
    • “Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness” (Psalm 143:10).

    Have you chosen to make Jesus the Lord of your life, deciding to live for Him, and delighting to do His will?

  • Taste and See That the Lord is Good

    “O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.”

    Psalm 34:8

    David was known as a man after God’s own heart. “And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will” (Acts 13:22). The amazing part of this: God knew this before David was even chosen to become king of Israel.

    If you remember, King Saul continually disobeyed God. When God declared the kingdom would be removed from Saul and his family, read what Samuel told King Saul: “But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the LORD hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the LORD commanded thee” (1 Samuel 13:14). After one final chance, God told Samuel to declare the kingdom was rent from Saul’s family: “And Samuel said unto him, The LORD hath rent the kingdom of Israel from thee this day, and hath given it to a neighbour of thine, that is better than thou” (1 Samuel 15:28). We find out who that man is in the next chapter. “Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward…” (1 Samuel 16:13).

    It is good to know that God knew David’s heart. And David knew God. However, that did not prevent events of life from happening. There was a time when King Saul was after David (for even King Saul recognized God’s hand upon David). Saul wanted to kill David. David spent many years fleeing from King Saul. There was one occasion in particular where David had to flee the country. He ended up in the presence of an enemy king, Achish (Abimelech). They knew who David was, a mighty warrior in Israel’s army. David was afraid. “And he changed his behaviour before them, and feigned himself mad in their hands, and scrabbled on the doors of the gate, and let his spittle fall down upon his beard” (1 Samuel 21:13). When David behaved in this manner, the king thought David was mad (crazy). David was allowed to depart and escape (see 1 Samuel 21:10 – 21:1).

    David recognized that even though he was in a terrible place, it was God who delivered him from the hand of the enemy king. He wrote a Psalm to remember and praise God for taking care of him in such a time. “4. I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears … 6. This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. 7. The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. 8. O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him” (Psalm 34:4-8). David sought God in his time of trouble. And God heard and delivered him. Notice that David called himself “This poor man”. When he cried unto the Lord, “the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.” David understood what God did for him. He wanted others to recognize and do the same thing when one found themselves in trouble. “O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him” (Psalm 34:8). David was fleeing from King Saul because Saul recognized David would be the king to replace him. The trouble was not something that David was looking for or dove into of his own accord. There is a great difference when one seeks trouble because of selfish desires or choosing to sin willfully. However, when trouble comes as one seeks after God, trying to please Him, God will help that one. Remember what David recognized: “The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them” (Psalm 34:7).

    This is a great lesson for Christians today who choose to set their hearts to follow after God and the things of God. God will be with those who fear Him when trouble finds them. It is up to us to keep our hearts upon God and to cry out for help in times of trouble.

    Have you set your heart to seek after God?

    Do you call out for Him in times of trouble?

  • Put Off the Old

    “22. That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23. And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;”

    Ephesians 4:22-23

    Much of the Old Testament is a physical picture of the spirit life described in the New Testament. One vivid picture is in the taking of the land of Canaan – the Promised Land. Remember that this was the land promised to Abraham and his descendants. When the Israelites came out of Egypt, they had grown to become a mighty nation. When the people finally prepared to conquer the Promised Land, the tribes of Reuben, Gad and Manasseh wanted to stay on the eastern side of the Jordan River. This was not where God wanted them. However, concession was made for them to remain on the eastern side of the Jordan River.

    Consider what they saw: There was plenty of grassland for their animals. “Now the children of Reuben and the children of Gad had a very great multitude of cattle: and when they saw the land of Jazer, and the land of Gilead, that, behold, the place was a place for cattle” (Numbers 32:1). They saw the land, and wanted it. They desired this place instead of the land the God had for them. So the children of Reuben and Gad asked Moses if they could stay where they were. Moses declared it would discourage the other Israelites who must go to war to conquer their land while they stayed in that grassland. “And wherefore discourage ye the heart of the children of Israel from going over into the land which the LORD hath given them?” (Numbers 32:7). Moses warned them that they were acting like the generation before them who refused to enter into the Promised Land. “And, behold, ye are risen up in your fathers’ stead, an increase of sinful men, to augment yet the fierce anger of the LORD toward Israel” (Numbers 32:14). After promising that they would help the children of Israel conquer the land, and then return to the other side of the Jordan to live and raise their animals, Moses gave them the land. “And Moses gave unto them, even to the children of Gad, and to the children of Reuben, and unto half the tribe of Manasseh the son of Joseph … the land, with the cities thereof in the coasts, even the cities of the country round about” (Numbers 32:33).

    Why was it wrong for them to want to stay on the eastern side of the Jordan River?

    Consider that this was not the land that God had chosen and planned to give them. It was the land that these tribes saw and wanted. They thought it was a logical place to stay – for there was much grassland for their cattle. Besides, they agreed to help the other Israelites conquer the land, so as to not discourage them, and then return to the land they had chosen. There were many problems with their choice. They were never included within the land of Israel. At one point, the children of Israel almost went to war against them (see Joshua 22). These tribes were the first to fall into idolatry, and the first tribes carried captive out of the land. All because they chose to live on the fringe of where God wanted them to be.

    This is a great physical picture of some Christians’ lives. There are those who trust in Christ, yet they live as superficial Christians in many respects. They do not fully enter into the lifestyle that God would have for them in this new life. Many choose the things of this world walking as others, in the vanity of their minds. “17. This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, 18. Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart” (Ephesians 4:17-18).Remember that the tribes that chose to refuse the land God had for them, choosing instead the land that they saw and wanted. This alienated them from the life that God wanted for them – in the Promised Land. Instead, they were susceptible to extra wars with their brethren, idolatry, and eventually being cut short as a people in the land (carried captive). This is a picture of the Christian life that walks according to the world and its system, contrary to what God has planned. This is a life “alienated from the life of God”. Because of the blindness of that heart (the hardheartedness), he chooses to live on the fringe of where God wants him to be.

    Paul encouraged the church at Ephesus how to walk (according to the truth in Jesus), putting on the new man. “21. If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22. That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23. And be renewed in the spirit of your mind” (Ephesians 4:21-23). Christians are to know how to live according to God’s Word, then forsake the old way of life (living according to the world), and choose to live a new life pleasing God. Read how Paul described this: “And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness” (Ephesians 4:24).

    Have you put off the old man with his ways, and then put on the new man, choosing to fully enter the Christian life?

  • Believe God

    “Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.”

    Acts 27:25

    Is it easy to determine God’s will for one’s life? What if you know what God has planned for you, but you find circumstances seem to be averting that plan? Is it possible to remain confident in God and His Word? There are many great examples in the Bible (see Romans 15:4). The following is one in Paul’s life.

    Paul had wanted to go to Rome for many years, but God had not yet opened a door. When Paul was arrested in Jerusalem, the Lord encouraged Paul. “And the night following the Lord stood by him, and said,Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome” (Acts 23:11). Paul was sent from Jerusalem to Caesarea. He was kept in prison in Caesarea for two years when the rulers finally set a time to send him to Rome to stand before Caesar. Paul would finally get to preach the Gospel Message in Rome. Paul may not be traveling to Rome they way he planned, but he believed the Lord’s Words. Paul now understood that he would go to Rome as a prisoner.

    Paul’s life was out of his hands. He was put on a ship in the custody of a Roman centurion, Julius (see Acts 27:1). Along with many other prisoners, Luke and Aristarchus, Paul’s friends, were on the ship. At their first stop, the centurion was kind to Paul and allowed him to go ashore, meet friends, and to refresh himself. When they sailed again, the voyage became difficult because the winds were contrary (means “they were antagonistic, or against them” see Acts 27:4). At the next place they stopped, the centurion found a ship of Alexandria that was sailing to Italy and put Paul and the other prisoners on that ship. They sailed many days, making little progress, until they reached The Fair Havens. “9. Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the fast was now already past, Paul admonished them, 10. And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives” (Acts 27:9-10). It was now late in the year (the fast was around late September or early October – too late in the year to be sailing).

    The trip was taking longer than planned. It was now too late to safely continue a journey, for winter weather was approaching. Sailors understood that it would be dangerous. The Fair Havens was not the greatest place to “winter” for the year because of the exposure to winter storms.

    The master and owner of the ship wanted to continue (see Acts 27:11). The Fair Havens was not a good place to winter, and Phenice was better (see Acts 27:12). Because Paul had experience shipwrecks before (see 2 Corinthians 11:25), he understood the potential danger. Paul had warned them rightly.

    The centurion had a decision to make.

    “And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete” (Acts 27:13). Supposing means “to think, imagine, consider, appear. Expresses the subjective mental estimate or opinion which men form about a matter. Such recognition may be correct, or (as in this case) incorrect, involving error (i.e. Acts 27:13).” The majority agreed to continue with the journey, and the deciding factor was the south wind that blew softly.

    However, Paul had been right. “14. But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon. 15. And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive” (Acts 27:14-15). The storm came.

    All were in a storm because:

    • they were impatient (see Acts 27:9);
    • they trusted themselves (see Acts 27:13);
    • they rejected counsel from God’s man, Paul (see Acts 27:10-11).

    They had to let the ship drift (see Acts 27:16-17). All they could do was try to weather the storm safely (see Acts 27:18-19). “And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away” (Acts 27:20).

    Consider what Paul may have been feeling and thinking. He recognized the situation – it was dangerous. However, Paul had a hope that the others did not have. Remember, the Lord told Paul that he would “bear witness also at Rome.” Paul had the Word of the Lord to encourage and comfort him in this terrible storm of life. God encouraged Paul again. Paul then encouraged the others. “23. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, 24. Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. 25. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me” (Acts 27:23-25). All would live. If they followed the Word of the Lord given to Paul. If you remember the rest of the story, because the men adhered to Paul’s word (from God), all lived (see Acts 27:44).

    What made the difference for Paul, who knew God’s plan? “… for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me” (Acts 27:25). He believed God.

    Do you believe God and remain confident in His Word when the storms of life come?

  • That I May Know Him

    “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death.”

    Philippians 3:10

    The New Testament tells us much of Paul and his ministry. When one reads the New Testament, Paul’s life stands out. Most remember that he led three missionary journeys spreading the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ, before he was taken as a prisoner to Rome. Remember how he often referred to himself. “Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God” (Romans 1:1). He was an amazing servant. Paul understood that God sent him to share the Gospel message (see Acts 9:15, 20:24).

    Although God was able to do much through the life of Paul, Paul understood something very important. Philippians tells us a bit about Paul. His understanding of who he was and what was important should be an example for all Christians. “Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more” (Philippians 3:4). If there was ever a man who could attain salvation by works of righteousness, it would be most difficult to beat Paul. He gives a listing of all of his worldly and religious achievements that should have gained him salvation if that was how salvation could be attained:

    • “5. Circumcised the eighth day,
    • of the stock of Israel,
    • of the tribe of Benjamin,
    • an Hebrew of the Hebrews;
    • as touching the law, a Pharisee;
    • 6. Concerning zeal, persecuting the church;
    • touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.” (Philippians 3:5-6).

    These seven things were such religious attainments in his day, one would think he was bound for heaven. However, he learned salvation could not be acquired by works. Read what he wrote in a letter to Titus: “5. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; 6. Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; 7. That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life” (Titus 3:5-7). Paul understood that it did not matter who he was or what he had achieved in his life. Salvation did not come by works of righteousness that he could do. It only came by the mercy and grace of Jesus. “8. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9. Not of works, lest any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

    Beyond the understanding that nothing Paul could do could have earned him salvation, he recognized something important. 7. But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. 8. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,” (Philippians 3:7-8). He had to forsake everything that he was and thought he should be to follow Christ. He had to die to his old life. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

    In this new life, Paul explained what was important. “9. And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith: 10. That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death” (Philippians 3:9-10). Paul understood his righteousness was through “the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God”. What better righteousness could one ever want or need?! However, because of this righteousness which is of God, Paul understood that this enabled him to know Him. He wanted “the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord” (see Philippians 3:9). This knowledge can only come when one chooses to make Jesus Lord in that life. Paul understood this. Paul decided that he wanted to know Him. “13. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14. I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14). Paul spent his life getting to know his Lord, Jesus, personally. He pressed on toward the mark, forgetting what was behind understanding that he had not apprehended. As good as he was, Paul understood the importance of continually reaching to attain the things Christ wanted for his life. He wanted to know Jesus more, and the more he knew Him, the more Paul wanted to serve Him. Because Paul forsook who and what he was, trusted in Jesus Christ, making Him Lord of his life, Paul became a mighty servant for Jesus. He not only shared the Gospel Message of salvation available only through Jesus, but he was able to write down much of the New Testament. In those writings, we find out how to know Jesus. As we know Jesus better, we understand and accomplish the things God has planned for our lives. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them” (Ephesians 2:10).

    Have you trusted in Christ for salvation?

    Have you made it your desire to know Jesus more, then enabling you to understand the plan He has for your life?

    Learn how to trust Christ for salvation.

  • The Response of the Heart

    “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

    Acts 2:21

    In the early days of the church, there were varied responses to the Gospel Message of Jesus. Many readily believed. However, most of the religious leaders refused. We can read that their rejection became progressively worse.

    • First, we learn that some people were pricked in their heart, and they believed in Jesus (see Acts 2:37):

    When Peter preached in Acts 2, all of the house of Israel should have recognized Jesus. “Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ” (Acts 2:36). Christ means “the Savior of the world.” They were to believe Jesus is the Savior of the world. But, how did they respond? “Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?” (Acts 2:37). When they heard the Gospel message preached, they were “pricked in their heart.” Pricked means “greatly pained or deeply moved.” It is important that the Gospel message had a movement in their heart. Sometimes we call this “conviction” (which means “found guilty of an offense”). However, it is more important what those people did with that movement. Peter told them what they must do. “38. Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 39. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call” (Acts 2:38-39). The people had to take action: repent. Repent means “to imply pious sorrow for unbelief and sin, and a turning from them to God and the gospel of Christ. To think differently; a change of mind demanding a change of action.” Repentance is a response between a sinful man and God. Baptism is an outward testimony of what happened to that individual’s heart. Notice that God “called” them. Call means “God’s call through the Gospel message.” God must call the person. What did the people do once they understood? “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls” (Acts 2:41). Those who believed in Jesus, responded to God’s call. There were three thousand people who believed!

    • Then we learn some religious leaders were cut to the heart, but they sought counsel to slay those who preached Jesus (see Acts 5:33):

    Peter preached another great sermon in Acts 3. He wanted the people to recognize that not only was Jesus God’s Son, but that this people had chosen to release a murderer instead of Jesus. However, Peter excused them because of their ignorance. “And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers” (Acts 3:17). But Peter was there to help them understand – so they would not remain ignorant, by reminding them of the prophets words that are found throughout the Old Testament. “But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled” (Acts 3:18). Peter preached Jesus from the Old Testament (see Acts 3:20-26). Because the religious leaders did not like what Peter and John preached, they arrested them (see Acts 4:3). “Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand” (Acts 4:4). Nevertheless, many others believed.

    Peter proceeded to preach Jesus to the religious leaders: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). The religious leaders told them to quit preaching Jesus. However, the Apostles preached and taught daily – even after being put in prison. When they were ordered to quit teaching in Jesus’ name, they understood it was more important to obey and please God, rather than man (see Acts 5:29). Peter continued by preaching Jesus to these religious leaders. How did they respond to the Gospel message? “When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them” (Acts 5:33). They beat the Apostles, told them to not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. Instead of receiving the Gospel message of Jesus, they rejected it and wanted to kill the messengers.

    • Finally, we find they were cut to the heart and killed the messenger, Stephen.

    “And Stephen, full of faith and power, did great wonders and miracles among the people” (Acts 6:8). The rulers of the synagogue rose up and disputed with Stephen. “And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake” (Acts 6:9). After lying about Stephen and setting up false witnesses against him, Stephen was allowed to speak. He preached from the Old Testament addressing the false accusations against him. “Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.” (Acts 7:51). These men had not kept God’s Word (see Acts 7:53). “When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth” (Acts 7:54). Although they were cut to the heart, they rejected Jesus and His Word. They then killed the messenger. Instead of repenting, these religious leaders took Stephen out and stoned him.

    Many believed in Jesus. However many rejected Him. The choice was up to each individual.

    Have you been pricked in your heart when you heard the Gospel Message of Jesus?

    Have you responded to the call of God through the Gospel message?

    What is the Gospel Message of Jesus Christ?

  • The Witnesses

    “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.”

    Luke 2:11

    In Malachi, attention was brought to the fact that God recognized those few who truly feared God, rejected the sin, and obeyed His commands. “Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name” (Malachi 3:16). God not only saw them, He heard them. God knew them and wrote of them in a special book of remembrance. These people obviously loved God and sought to know Him more – for they thought upon His name. Remember that the things that one lays to heart are the things that are the most important to one. When one continually thinks upon God, God will continually be in that heart and mind. They were to remember to look for the One God promised from the beginning (see Genesis 3:15). Those people “spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it” (Malachi 3:16a). They encouraged each other often, and God heard.

    As we come to the New Testament after about four hundred years of no new word from God, understand that there were still a few people who truly feared God and thought upon His name. Recognize a few who either heard or witnessed the birth of the One who had been promised throughout the Old Testament: Jesus.

    In Luke, Zacharias and Elizabeth learned they would have a child born to them in their very old age. This child, John, would be the one “make ready a people prepared for the Lord” (see Luke 1:17). The Lord was Jesus, the One promised in the Old Testament.

    An angel came to Mary telling her that she had “found favour with God.” Mary would bring forth a son, and call his name Jesus, “the Son of the Highest” (see Luke 1:26-38). Her reply? “And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word” (Luke 1:38a). She chose to obey God’s plan.

    Mary visited Elizabeth (see Luke 1:39-45). Elizabeth recognized Mary was carrying the child Jesus (before He was born).

    In Matthew, we are introduced to a man named Joseph, espoused to a young virgin named Mary. “Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost” (Matthew 1:18). Joseph wanted to “put her away privily.” However, as he thought on these things, an angel came to Joseph and told him what was happening (see Matthew 1:18-25). Joseph chose to obey God’s plan.

    Joseph and Mary went to Bethlehem (per the decree of Caesar Augustus) where Jesus was born (see Luke 2:1-7). Angels told the shepherds in the fields who were watching their sheep, “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord” (Luke 2:11). They were told where to find Him. What did the shepherds do? “And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us” (Luke 2:15). They chose to go see Jesus for themselves. “And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger” (Luke 2:16). They found Jesus, and they told everyone (see Luke 2:17-18).

    Joseph and Mary took Jesus to the Temple when He was eight days old (according to the Law). Simeon went to the Temple that day (see Luke 2:21-35). He recognized that the baby, Jesus, was the Lord’s Christ (Messiah). What was his reaction? “30. For mine eyes have seen thy salvation, 31. Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people; 32. A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel” (Luke 2:30-32). Simeon recognized Jesus, the Messiah.

    Anna came in that instant (see Luke 2:36-38). “And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem” Luke 2:38). Anna recognized and acknowledged Jesus.

    In Matthew, we are introduced to many people: wise men, Herod the king, all Jerusalem, chief priests, and scribes (see Matthew 2:1-12). The wise men were looking for the new king who was born. The chief priests and scribes told them He would be born in Bethlehem (see Matthew 2:5-6). Although all heard where the new king would be born (wise men, Herod the king, all Jerusalem, chief priests, and scribes), only the wise men went to see Jesus where they fell down and worshiped Him (see Matthew 2:11). The wise men recognized Jesus.

    Many heard of Jesus. Only a few recognized just Who Jesus is. Each one of them had the choice: to believe, or to not believe in Jesus, God’s Son. Remember what Jesus said. “16. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 17. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.18. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God” (John 3:16-18).

    Have you only heard of Jesus?

    Or

    Have you recognized Jesus, God’s Son, believing upon Him for salvation?

    What to to when you believe upon Jesus.

  • A Life to Live

    “That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.”

    1 Thessalonians 2:12

    Often times when people begin a new year, they take evaluation of the previous year. Some people make what we call “New Year’s Resolutions”, hoping to improve their lives in the coming year. Instead of following a common tradition, consider the following thoughts.

    If you profess Jesus as Lord of your life, what does this mean to you? Have you truly made Him “Lord” of your life? The word Lord means “supreme in authority, that is, (as noun) controller”. Is Jesus the supreme authority in your life? Is Jesus the controller of your life (thoughts, activities, etc.)?

    Consider the following hymn written by Isaac Watts over 300 years ago. As you read, recognize that he understood the concept of living a life with Jesus as the Lord of his life.

    When I Survey the Wondrous Cross

    Author: Isaac Watts (1707)

    “1. When I survey the wondrous cross
    on which the Prince of glory died,
    my richest gain I count but loss,
    and pour contempt on all my pride.

    2. Forbid it, Lord, that I should boast
    save in the death of Christ, my God!
    All the vain things that charm me most,
    I sacrifice them through his blood.

    3. See, from his head, his hands, his feet,
    sorrow and love flow mingled down.
    Did e’er such love and sorrow meet,
    or thorns compose so rich a crown?

    4. Were the whole realm of nature mine,
    that were a present far too small.
    Love so amazing, so divine,
    demands my soul, my life, my all.”

    Knowing that Jesus left His throne in glory to come to earth and take each one’s sin and punishment (upon that wondrous cross) should call all Christians to action. The final thought in this hymn should bring one to a time of reckoning within that heart: the least I can give to my Lord is my all – for I was bought with a great price.

    After reading this hymn, see if any verses come to mind to help you understand the importance of truly living a life as one who understands that Jesus is to be Lord (supreme in authority and controller) of that life. I will give you a few to help you begin to think of verses calling you to make Jesus the actual Lord of your life:

    “14. As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: 15. But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; 16. Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy” (1 Peter 1:14-17). (It would also be good to read the short books of 2 John and 3 John four encouragement.)

    “19. What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20. For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).

    “That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory” (1 Thessalonians 2:12). Also check out Romans 8:5-8 to remember to be spiritually minded.

    The Bible is full of verses to encourage Christians to make Jesus the actual Lord of one’s life.

    Have you contemplated your live and found ways to genuinely make Jesus the rightful Lord of your life?

  • The Messenger and His Message

    “The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.”

    John 1:29

    God always keeps His promises. He promised from the beginning of time to send One who would deliver man from the bondage of sin and death (see Genesis 3:15). All throughout the Old Testament, one can read that God constantly reminded His people of that promise. When you study the Old Testament, you should recognize that God even added more clues to the specific details of that coming all throughout the Old Testament – so the people would be watching and waiting for that day. Specifically, so that they would recognize Jesus once He came. Read again how the last book of the Old Testament, Malachi, reminds us of that promise. “Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts”(Malachi 3:1). God revealed that He would send a special messenger to prepare the way before God, Himself, came born as Jesus. My messenger was “John the Baptist;” and the Lord, whom they seek, was “Jesus.” God compared the coming of Jesus with “a refiner’s fire, and like fullers’ soap” (see Malachi 3:2). A refiner’s fire means “a precious metal that was heated until it became a liquid so that all of the impurities could rise to the top to be removed.” A fullers’ soap means “used to rub and scrub clothing until the stains were washed away.” Each of these can be compared to what Jesus would do when he came – remove the impurities and sin from man.

    Read another clue God’s people were to look for. “Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD” (Malachi 4:5). God told His people of “Elijah the Prophet” (the Messenger) who would come. About four hundred years passed between the Old Testament and New Testament writings. As you come to the New Testament, we are to recognize that God sent a messenger to prepare the way of the Lord – just as He promised He would do. In Luke 1, we read of an angel appearing to a priest, Zacharias, who told him that he and his aged wife would have a son, John. Notice the special son that this would be. “13. But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John … 15. For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord … 16. And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. 17. And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord” (Luke 1:13-17). Understand that Elijah is spelled Elias in the New Testament. The son named John is who we have come to know as John the Baptist – for he preached and “baptized” repentance.

    “29. The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. 30. This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which is preferred before me: for he was before me. 31. And I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water” (John 1:29-31). Jesus came just as God promised. John introduced Him. “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29b). Understand that when Jesus came, He was as a refiner’s fire. Jesus and His Words purified some people, while others rejected Jesus’ Words. However, everyone heard of Him. “And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region round about Galilee” (Mark 1:28). If nothing else, Jesus draws man to a time of decision.

    The most important thing to recognize about this information can be summed up best by the words John recorded for us to read. “6. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. 7. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. 8. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. 9. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. 10. He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. 11. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name” (John 1:6-12). John did the job God had for him to do. He was a witness who told others of the Light, Jesus (see John 8:12). Jesus was in the world, and the world was made by Him, yet the majority of God’s people did not recognize or acknowledge Jesus when he came. However, those who did receive Jesus as the One promised from the beginning and believed upon Him, became the sons of God.

    Have you done more than heard of Jesus?

    Have you acknowledged and believed upon Jesus, becoming a child of God?

    How to be saved link.