“I praise God for what he has promised; yes, I praise the LORD for what he has promised.”
Psalms 56:10 NLT
God's promises are a reminder that He cares for us!! What is more promising than sending Jesus, his only son??
His promises of giving us hope, peace, strength in times of weakness, joy in times of a battle came true. He first loved us, gave Jesus for us, called us by nAme, he sustained us, he cares for our every need, and is our future. We have several reasons to praise God even for unseen promises!! Let us praise God for what He has done for us till this very minute and praise Him for all of God's promises to us !!
Scripture says "Let everything that has breath praise the Lord!!" Praise the lord
Thursday, March 31, 2016
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
30 March 2016
And then he told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone. Anyone who believes and is baptized will be saved. But anyone who refuses to believe will be condemned. These miraculous signs will accompany those who believe: They will cast out demons in my name, and they will speak in new languages.They will be able to handle snakes with safety, and if they drink anything poisonous, it won’t hurt them. They will be able to place their hands on the sick, and they will be healed.” (Mark 16:15-18)
The language here is plain and simple, anyone who believes and baptises will be saved; a two step process: 1. To believe and 2. to be baptised. It may be worthy to note the quality of all those Jesus says who “believes” not to be condemned! Today as we read the verse, let us ask ourselves where do I stand...? Am I a believer or will I be saved according to the standards of Jesus ??? Let us pray !!
The language here is plain and simple, anyone who believes and baptises will be saved; a two step process: 1. To believe and 2. to be baptised. It may be worthy to note the quality of all those Jesus says who “believes” not to be condemned! Today as we read the verse, let us ask ourselves where do I stand...? Am I a believer or will I be saved according to the standards of Jesus ??? Let us pray !!
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
29 March 2016
On the way they were asking each other, “Who will roll away the stone for us from the entrance to the tomb?” But as they arrived, they looked up and saw that the stone, which was very large, had already been rolled aside. (Mark 16: 3-4 NLT)
The problem was huge; their master, teacher and friend was crucified, laid in a tomb with a huge stone at its entrance. It seemed impossible to these women that they could roll away the stone themselves. Some of us would be too troubled to even step forward, and the walk would seem pointless. Who knows, if it was us, we would even stop walking towards the tomb altogether? Or perhaps not because we may be inquisitive to know what happened to our Master. These women continued walking although they knew there was an obstacle.
Many of life’s situations may pose the same question to us..”who will roll away the stone(our present issue/trouble) for ME?” When faced with this question are we weighed down, distressed and broken without energy to step forward? Do we feel lost or nearly lost??
Remember a good disciple trusts GOD no matter what! Even though he may be CRAWLING, he will keep moving. Instead of stoping, having a pity-party, or be depressed and live in the shadow of the blues, let us move towards the obstacle, God can do the impossible. Let us not take everything into our hands to solve, leave something for God to work on….
Do we trust God enough, do we have enough faith in the God who called us…???
If our trust is in Him, if our focus is set on God and not the size of the problem, the same God can bring a timely help, an angel, to roll away that obstacle for us ! But do we have the faith?
The problem was huge; their master, teacher and friend was crucified, laid in a tomb with a huge stone at its entrance. It seemed impossible to these women that they could roll away the stone themselves. Some of us would be too troubled to even step forward, and the walk would seem pointless. Who knows, if it was us, we would even stop walking towards the tomb altogether? Or perhaps not because we may be inquisitive to know what happened to our Master. These women continued walking although they knew there was an obstacle.
Many of life’s situations may pose the same question to us..”who will roll away the stone(our present issue/trouble) for ME?” When faced with this question are we weighed down, distressed and broken without energy to step forward? Do we feel lost or nearly lost??
Remember a good disciple trusts GOD no matter what! Even though he may be CRAWLING, he will keep moving. Instead of stoping, having a pity-party, or be depressed and live in the shadow of the blues, let us move towards the obstacle, God can do the impossible. Let us not take everything into our hands to solve, leave something for God to work on….
Do we trust God enough, do we have enough faith in the God who called us…???
If our trust is in Him, if our focus is set on God and not the size of the problem, the same God can bring a timely help, an angel, to roll away that obstacle for us ! But do we have the faith?
Monday, March 28, 2016
28 March 2016
Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Romans 8:39 KJV)
The heights of power, honour, prosperity or circumstances may draw one to occupy and capture time but Apostle Paul says even these won’t be sufficient to withdraw their love from the Lord Jesus Christ.
Have we not seen people who has everything in life (everything the world can give) and yet DON’T have contentment OR the peace of mind…??? What do they really lack ?? A realisation of the love of Lord Jesus…and the assurance of their future in Him!!
The depths of poverty or rank of life OR any thing created shall not separate us from love of God. Paul says if we are true Christian, our love for Christ would be stronger than, any influence of things of this world have on our minds. The love of God is in Christ and it is through Christ alone that we love God.
When we feel lonely and weighed with burdens of life, remember we have A GOD WHO promised us to never leave or forsake us. If we truly love God and desire to walk in His ways, nothing, nor the high ranks or the lowest ranks or any things of the earth can take priority over Christ!! He will fill us with the peace that surpasses all the wisdom and understanding !
God Bless
Sunday, March 27, 2016
27 March 2016
They went to the olive grove called Gethsemane, and Jesus said, “Sit here while I go and pray.” He took Peter, James, and John with him, and he became deeply troubled and distressed. He told them, “My soul is crushed with grief to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” (Mark 14:32-34, NLT)
Jesus goes to the Gethsemane deeply burdened and to pray. He even asks his disciples to sit and pray…and takes only 3 of the disciples with him. He says to them..”my soul is crushed with grief to the point of death” what an intimate statement!! If we were to say such word with deep meaning, it would be to people who we are close with. To those who can identify with out grief, those who may have the burden for us to pray. We say prayer requests to the public, but certain matters are only shared with our intimate friends/relations. And expect them to pray for us. We read that Jesus says to them “Stay here and keep watch with me”!!!
If you have a family, or those who are in Lord's ministry would understand this clearly!!! Sometimes, when the leader(parents) has a vision, a burden, a unspoken desire about the kingdom of God, and if there are none to stand by, IT HURTS deeply and TERRIBLY, and make them feel isolated and lonely!!
Few weeks back I saw a dream, Pastor of a church delegating an elder(spiritual elder) to lock a house( mean the house of God) as going away to run an errand. When the Pastor (and his family) returns, along with the elder (and his family) to the house they saw something painful and bitter. The house that was supposed to be locked was unlocked. The person(elder) who was given the responsibility to lock didn’t seem to be concerned or look SORRY for the mistake he did. However, the Pastor (& his family) was hurt deeply with their negligence. All they could do is STEP in again with faith and confidence in the Father who called them. But praying and letting go of the hurt and pain, but walked into the house..without any fear of danger!!
How often do we carry out our roles and responsibility in spiritual aspects with integrity? Do we take it light ? Do we disregard or neglect or devalue it ??? WATCH OUT, we are RUNNING OUT OF TIME. When Christ returns, all of us will have to stand before the Judgement seat …Will our hands be strong in that day???
Jesus goes to the Gethsemane deeply burdened and to pray. He even asks his disciples to sit and pray…and takes only 3 of the disciples with him. He says to them..”my soul is crushed with grief to the point of death” what an intimate statement!! If we were to say such word with deep meaning, it would be to people who we are close with. To those who can identify with out grief, those who may have the burden for us to pray. We say prayer requests to the public, but certain matters are only shared with our intimate friends/relations. And expect them to pray for us. We read that Jesus says to them “Stay here and keep watch with me”!!!
If you have a family, or those who are in Lord's ministry would understand this clearly!!! Sometimes, when the leader(parents) has a vision, a burden, a unspoken desire about the kingdom of God, and if there are none to stand by, IT HURTS deeply and TERRIBLY, and make them feel isolated and lonely!!
Few weeks back I saw a dream, Pastor of a church delegating an elder(spiritual elder) to lock a house( mean the house of God) as going away to run an errand. When the Pastor (and his family) returns, along with the elder (and his family) to the house they saw something painful and bitter. The house that was supposed to be locked was unlocked. The person(elder) who was given the responsibility to lock didn’t seem to be concerned or look SORRY for the mistake he did. However, the Pastor (& his family) was hurt deeply with their negligence. All they could do is STEP in again with faith and confidence in the Father who called them. But praying and letting go of the hurt and pain, but walked into the house..without any fear of danger!!
How often do we carry out our roles and responsibility in spiritual aspects with integrity? Do we take it light ? Do we disregard or neglect or devalue it ??? WATCH OUT, we are RUNNING OUT OF TIME. When Christ returns, all of us will have to stand before the Judgement seat …Will our hands be strong in that day???
Friday, March 25, 2016
25 March 2016
“No!” Peter declared emphatically. “Even if I have to die with you, I will never deny you!” And all the others vowed the same. (Mark 14:31)
When Jesus foretold His death and resurrection(before), Peter didn’t want to take it. Now when Jesus talks about denial, Peter’s says even if i have to die with you I will not deny you. Notice other disciples said the same. Later on Peter denies 3 times, although when Jesus foretold it Peter didn't believe it or he refused to think so!
In today’s context, when do we deny God..? When we misrepresent God..are we not denying Him?? We read on to see after the 3rd denial Jesus’ turns back and looks at Peter with an intimacy and in grace not in anger or bitterness! Today, jesus is watching us……does our way of life deny or misrepresent God ?? Let us ask God to give us deeper understanding of Him, that we might reflect Christ to people around us.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
24 March 2016
Then the LORD said to Moses, “Gather before me seventy men who are recognized as elders and leaders of Israel. Bring them to the Tabernacle to stand there with you. I will come down and talk to you there. I will take some of the Spirit that is upon you, and I will put the Spirit upon them also. They will bear the burden of the people along with you, so you will not have to carry it alone. (Numbers 11:16-17 NLT)
When we find it hard to tackle our spiritual call alone, God will not turn His back to us but pour His spirit on certain few amongst us to have the same spiritual burden as the leader. When Moses was deeply troubled with the way Israelites reacted God says he will pour the burden on a few elders and leaders to be with Moses to carry the burden.
Church needs leaders and elders who will have the burden for the people. What church needs is elders and leaders who spends time to pray for the spiritual growth and needs of its members' and to execute the Great Commission of Christ.
As an individual what can we do??
Is it only to pray for the leaders, pray for our Church, our ministers….??
We must be committed to God, led by Holy Spirit to carry the burden of the people.
We need to be open to His call, be committed to a local church (that worships God in Sprit and truth) and be willing to serve…
Let us pray for His Spirit to fall upon us too, to take up the call of Great Commission and serve God!
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
23 March 2016
I waited patiently for the LORD; He turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire (Psalm 40:1-2, NIV).
Earlier this week, one of my children wept so bitterly. It made me feel helpless. My focus was to help the child move past blues although I was sad. I was troubled, praying within but trying to “fix” but there was one person who was on his bed praying for his child. Within hours, God did turn to us….He heard our cry and God intervened in the most impossible way in our life once again.
When dealing with pain, troubles in life we have several choices of reaction, we could become bitter, blame someone or ourselves, have self-hatred moments, simply deny the existence of such a trouble OR simply trust God believing that He will work in favour of us. Remember when we trust God, we are saying “not my will but Yours be done” which means we must accept whatever God has in store for us for that situation!
Regardless of the depth or gravity of our problems, remember God is with us. He might be using our problems to teach us to Hope in Him, to understand His power, to feel His comforting hand, to understand His healing hand. After all, He refines us all to be pure as gold!!
Let us pray with confidence that He will turn to us,to our cries and draw us out of the pit..out of every mud and mire we are in!!
Earlier this week, one of my children wept so bitterly. It made me feel helpless. My focus was to help the child move past blues although I was sad. I was troubled, praying within but trying to “fix” but there was one person who was on his bed praying for his child. Within hours, God did turn to us….He heard our cry and God intervened in the most impossible way in our life once again.
When dealing with pain, troubles in life we have several choices of reaction, we could become bitter, blame someone or ourselves, have self-hatred moments, simply deny the existence of such a trouble OR simply trust God believing that He will work in favour of us. Remember when we trust God, we are saying “not my will but Yours be done” which means we must accept whatever God has in store for us for that situation!
Regardless of the depth or gravity of our problems, remember God is with us. He might be using our problems to teach us to Hope in Him, to understand His power, to feel His comforting hand, to understand His healing hand. After all, He refines us all to be pure as gold!!
Let us pray with confidence that He will turn to us,to our cries and draw us out of the pit..out of every mud and mire we are in!!
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
22 March 2016
You, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know when the master of the household will return—in the evening, at midnight, before dawn, or at daybreak. Don’t let him find you sleeping when he arrives without warning. I say to you what I say to everyone: Watch for him!
(Mark 13: 35-37 )
Are we ready for Jesus' second coming ? If he comes tonight will we be taken?? Are we complacent with our spiritual life and our relationship with Christ?? Do we have the zeal to meet him or are we cold/lukewarm?? Bible not fiction but real ... Let us carry the zeal outside of our prayer halls, outside church meetings and bring it into our daily life!! And let not Jesus find each of us sleeping!!
Monday, March 21, 2016
21 March 2016
If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if he doesn't, we want to make it clear to you, You Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up. ( Daniel 3:17-18 )
These men had a powerful faith,even if God didn't save them from death, they still stood their ground. Why do we ask God to meet our conditions before we stand up for God? They trusted God no matter what would happen to them.... Can we trust in God even when it appears God won't come through to help?
Sunday, March 20, 2016
20 March 2016
Yet I still dare to hope when I remember this: The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. ( Lamentations 3:21-22 NLT)
Have we stopped daring to hope? But there is healing and deliverance when we submit to God, a hope of being made whole through Christ
When our hope in our dreams and plans to do great things diminish, when we don't see success we may stop daring to hope. We have a great call, Abraham obeyed God even though it may have felt hopeless to offer his son as a sacrifice..
Let us not allow any situation to stop us from believing in God's plan for our life. Remember, we have to set our eyes on Him from. where our help come from? Our help comes from the lord the maker of heaven n earth even though we may not see God, our hope in His love and grace is always there. Keep hoping no matter what. His mercies endures forever and the only reason why we are still alive!
Saturday, March 19, 2016
19 March 2016
But take heed to yourselves: for they shall deliver you up to councils; and in the synagogues ye shall be beaten: and ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them. And the gospel must first be published among all nations. But when they shall lead [you], and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost.(Mark 13:9-11, KJV)
Jesus stresses, on how the disciples should respond and live till His second coming. We know that the disciples had to face several trails….and persecution. We may also be mocked and sidelined but let us stand firm in Him than to compromise. Jesus says, the gospel must be preached and when being taken up to councils and courts they must depend totally on the Holy Spirit, to give the appropriate words of wisdom for them to speak.
Even today, our Lord has a message to us to be willing to be His disciples ..He will speak through us. The Holy Spirit will guide us with His Words all he needs are obedient vessels who are willing to be used by Him.Let us be that disciple who allows Jesus to be Lord of our life, so that it won’t be us speaking but the Holy Spirit within us.
Friday, March 18, 2016
18 March 2016
Mark 13:7 "And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for [such things] must needs be; but the end [shall] not [be] yet."
In short,peace will not be there until Jesus returns….to establish His Kingdom on earth. There would war and disharmony although it may stop at one it may break out at another place. Jesus says, “be not troubled”…but to have the peace of God in the midst of the turbulence. Instead of being overwhelmed with fear, he expects us to spread the gospel even in such state. There is panic among the people when the economic condition is poor, but we need to know Jesus to outgrow the uncertainty and to look forward to the future Jesus promised!! Earth is not out home, Jesus has promised to prepare a mansion for us in heaven..O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
Thursday, March 17, 2016
17 March 2016
Jesus replied, “Yes, look at these great buildings. But they will be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of another!” (Mark 13:2)
This was Jesus’ reply to one of the disciple who was admiring the beauty of the temple and the surrounding buildings saying “Teacher, look at these magnificent buildings! Look at the impressive stones in the walls.” History says after around 40 years, Romans plundered Jerusalem, killing people and destroying the temple. It is said only the huge stones that served as foundation were left.
Many of the things we admire can be brought to destruction in a moment. Today, our attention, our admiration, our dream might be in the things we “see” around and “feel” stateliness in. But, there is a God who knew us before the foundations of earth were laid, who watches us day and night, who prevent our foot from falling, who knows the very hairs on our head.. What grandeur or magnificence does he hold in our minds??
What do we glory in…is it in perishable or the imperishable ? While we appreciate God given talents and skills, let us not forget the Maker of this earth, the source of such talent and honour Him the way he deserves honour.
Wednesday, March 16, 2016
16th March 2016
I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.(Psalms 130:5 KJV)
We have prayers, requests, needs and desires that we take to God. It's not easy to wait when our answers are delayed! But today although our answers are still pending can we say with hopes unshaken and with faith in Him that " I wait on the Lord and my hope is His word!" We have a God who says "I will never leave you or forsake you". Let us wait upon the Lord, with the hope in the living word of God !!
We have prayers, requests, needs and desires that we take to God. It's not easy to wait when our answers are delayed! But today although our answers are still pending can we say with hopes unshaken and with faith in Him that " I wait on the Lord and my hope is His word!" We have a God who says "I will never leave you or forsake you". Let us wait upon the Lord, with the hope in the living word of God !!
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
15th March 2016
You have been set apart to LORD today, for you were against your own sons and brothers, and He has blessed you this day.”(Ex. 32:29, KJV)
God spared the firstborns of His people from the plague, “the death of the Firstborn while Egyptians lost theirs. God told Moses to dedicate all the firstborn among the children of Israel for God himself. The order of the twelve sons/tribes of Israel were : Reuben, Simeon, Levi,Judah, Zebulun, Issachar, Dan, Gad, Asher, Naphtali, Joseph (listed as two tribes: Ephraim and Manasseh), Benjamin.
As per the first born command God gave Moses….it should have been Ruben the first born…..to be separated for God. Why Levi, the third born was chosen to be priests, to serve in the Tabernacle and to teach and not the Ruben or Simeon?
When Moses went up on Mount Sinai the Israelites created and worshipped a calf idol in God’s place!! Moses was furious that people were out of control when he called out, “Whoever is for Lord, come to me.”(verse 26) And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him ….no other tribe is mentioned. They were asked to kill about 3000 were killed on that day…Then Moses said, "You have been set apart to the LORD today, for you were against your own sons and brothers, and he has blessed you this day."
The Levites took a stand for the Lord when everyone failed to stand up for the Lord. It is our decision and commitment to God that makes us special to God.
Monday, March 14, 2016
14 March 2016
I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on.(Mark12:43-44)
Our Jesus who failed not to notice the poor widow’s contribution will surely notice every sincere offerings of prayers, thanksgiving and wealth ! Our God is not a respecter of persons, position, power, name, or even ministries!! What HE values is a sincere heart.. When we honour God with all we have, HE will testify about us.
Let us not feel inferior when it comes to approaching God, he knows our frame, he is the author and finisher of our faith. Can we bring into His presence the little we have to whole heartedly glorify His Name?
We may have said "I’m not eloquent to speak the word of God” or "I'm not righteous enough to do God's work" or "I’m not well versed in the bible that I cannot pray as the others do..”, “I’m a minister of a small group”,…..and the like. Instead, with a whole heart, let us offer our two mites like the poor widow so that Christ will testify of us. Even if the whole world may judge us otherwise, let us boldly give Him our best!!
Our Jesus who failed not to notice the poor widow’s contribution will surely notice every sincere offerings of prayers, thanksgiving and wealth ! Our God is not a respecter of persons, position, power, name, or even ministries!! What HE values is a sincere heart.. When we honour God with all we have, HE will testify about us.
Let us not feel inferior when it comes to approaching God, he knows our frame, he is the author and finisher of our faith. Can we bring into His presence the little we have to whole heartedly glorify His Name?
We may have said "I’m not eloquent to speak the word of God” or "I'm not righteous enough to do God's work" or "I’m not well versed in the bible that I cannot pray as the others do..”, “I’m a minister of a small group”,…..and the like. Instead, with a whole heart, let us offer our two mites like the poor widow so that Christ will testify of us. Even if the whole world may judge us otherwise, let us boldly give Him our best!!
Sunday, March 13, 2016
13 March 2016
The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again. But one disaster is enough to overthrow the wicked. ( Proverbs 24:16 NLT)
No body is immune to challenges or trails but if we follow Christ or pursue the path that God shows, we will ALWAYS get back up after a fall. If we follow a path devoid of His presence, ignoring God's message to us, we are likely to fall quickly and permanently. Let us not allow the devil to speak words of failure and discourage during trying moments instead speak words of faith !!
Let us examine if we fit in Our Heavenly Father's plan today. HE will surely give us the Grace to rise up each time the devil tries to push us down!
No body is immune to challenges or trails but if we follow Christ or pursue the path that God shows, we will ALWAYS get back up after a fall. If we follow a path devoid of His presence, ignoring God's message to us, we are likely to fall quickly and permanently. Let us not allow the devil to speak words of failure and discourage during trying moments instead speak words of faith !!
Let us examine if we fit in Our Heavenly Father's plan today. HE will surely give us the Grace to rise up each time the devil tries to push us down!
Saturday, March 12, 2016
12 March 2016
Through Christ you have come to trust in God. And you have placed your faith and hope in God because he raised Christ from the dead and gave him great glory. (1 Peter 1:21 NLT)
It may seem hard to connect with God if we think of Him sitting high on a throne. In Romans we read that, it is through Christ we have a personal relationship with Him. Christ knows our unique strengths and weaknesses and He provides blessings tailored just for our individual needs and situations. Christ died on the cross to become a bridge to God. Our personal relationship with Christ is what it takes to connect to God! Let's continue to communicate to Him, allowing it a double sided one :))
It may seem hard to connect with God if we think of Him sitting high on a throne. In Romans we read that, it is through Christ we have a personal relationship with Him. Christ knows our unique strengths and weaknesses and He provides blessings tailored just for our individual needs and situations. Christ died on the cross to become a bridge to God. Our personal relationship with Christ is what it takes to connect to God! Let's continue to communicate to Him, allowing it a double sided one :))
Friday, March 11, 2016
11 March 2016
Realizing how much the man understood, Jesus said to him, “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.”.(Mark 12:34)
One of the teachers of law was listening to the discussion between Christ and Sadducees who asks Jesus which was the greatest commandment of all.Jesus replies "You must love the lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength and Love your neighbor as yourself."
This teacher said he knew these were more important than to offer burnt offerings and sacrifices . Upon which Jesus said "you are not far from the Kingdom of God!!"
Today what will Jesus look at us and say? Where are we standing?? Will he say we are child of God or say we are "not far from the Kingdom".
Do we say "I’m almost a child of God", "almost a christian" , "i know the word of God" but not altogether following. Jesus is coming back for his bride, virgins who have oil will only be taken in, not the ones; who have lamps, but no oil. They came only as as far as the door, but the door was shut upon them. Let us be wise and have oil in our lamps!!
One of the teachers of law was listening to the discussion between Christ and Sadducees who asks Jesus which was the greatest commandment of all.Jesus replies "You must love the lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength and Love your neighbor as yourself."
This teacher said he knew these were more important than to offer burnt offerings and sacrifices . Upon which Jesus said "you are not far from the Kingdom of God!!"
Today what will Jesus look at us and say? Where are we standing?? Will he say we are child of God or say we are "not far from the Kingdom".
Do we say "I’m almost a child of God", "almost a christian" , "i know the word of God" but not altogether following. Jesus is coming back for his bride, virgins who have oil will only be taken in, not the ones; who have lamps, but no oil. They came only as as far as the door, but the door was shut upon them. Let us be wise and have oil in our lamps!!
Thursday, March 10, 2016
10 March 2016
And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry: And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet….. And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. And Peter calling to remembrance saith unto him, Master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away(Mark 11:12-14,20-21).
No Jesus wasn’t throwing a temper tantrum by cursing a tree .Research indicate leaves comes after fruit in fig tree; also there should be a forerunner of the fig fruit, which is a small almond sized crop called “ taqsh”(in arabic). So Jesus found "nothing but leaves" - no taqsh- a pretense of fruit but the tree was fruitless!!
After this event Jesus went to Jerusalem to drive money changers out of the temple. If we look at it analogically, the barren fig tree seems were symbolic of the religious activity in Israel. The temple which had to be fruitful was turned into a place of business..of NO fruit to God, useless in His sight!!
Jesus said in his John 15:5 that every tree that doesn’t bear fruit will be cut down (Matthew 7:19; Luke 13:6-9). If we who are the temple of God doesn’t bear fruit we will also be destroyed. We should diligently strive to not be barren!! .Matthew chapter 7 says "By their fruits you shall......know them.” Let us bear fruits in season and out of season!!
No Jesus wasn’t throwing a temper tantrum by cursing a tree .Research indicate leaves comes after fruit in fig tree; also there should be a forerunner of the fig fruit, which is a small almond sized crop called “ taqsh”(in arabic). So Jesus found "nothing but leaves" - no taqsh- a pretense of fruit but the tree was fruitless!!
After this event Jesus went to Jerusalem to drive money changers out of the temple. If we look at it analogically, the barren fig tree seems were symbolic of the religious activity in Israel. The temple which had to be fruitful was turned into a place of business..of NO fruit to God, useless in His sight!!
Jesus said in his John 15:5 that every tree that doesn’t bear fruit will be cut down (Matthew 7:19; Luke 13:6-9). If we who are the temple of God doesn’t bear fruit we will also be destroyed. We should diligently strive to not be barren!! .Matthew chapter 7 says "By their fruits you shall......know them.” Let us bear fruits in season and out of season!!
Wednesday, March 9, 2016
9 March 2016
So Jesus came to Jerusalem and went into the Temple. After looking around carefully at everything, he left because it was late in the afternoon. Then he returned to Bethany with the twelve disciples. (Mark 11 :11)
When we read “ went into the temple", I understand it that being not a Levite, Jesus wasn’t permitted to enter the holy or most holy place, it is the “courts” that Jesus went in. Jesus carefully looked, he clearly saw or examined the place. Although he saw the disorder at that point he didn’t say a word until He returned next day; it was late in the afternoon. We are the temple of God..we must examine and get rid of anything within us or about us that isn’t honouring God..
Our God clearly sees all our mistakes, errs and sins. No one is immune to sin, but although He sees it, He weighs our attitude, if we confess our sins and guard our life He is merciful enough to forgive us! If we continue to sin as if God isn’t aware, then He himself might overturn tables and rebuke the disorder in our lives!! Our God is slow to anger and waits patiently before He rebukes. When we see wickedness, injustice and corruption in this world…remember Jesus is watching carefully and will return with justice!! God honours those who honours Him, if today we stand to honour Him..we will not be forsaken.
When we read “ went into the temple", I understand it that being not a Levite, Jesus wasn’t permitted to enter the holy or most holy place, it is the “courts” that Jesus went in. Jesus carefully looked, he clearly saw or examined the place. Although he saw the disorder at that point he didn’t say a word until He returned next day; it was late in the afternoon. We are the temple of God..we must examine and get rid of anything within us or about us that isn’t honouring God..
Our God clearly sees all our mistakes, errs and sins. No one is immune to sin, but although He sees it, He weighs our attitude, if we confess our sins and guard our life He is merciful enough to forgive us! If we continue to sin as if God isn’t aware, then He himself might overturn tables and rebuke the disorder in our lives!! Our God is slow to anger and waits patiently before He rebukes. When we see wickedness, injustice and corruption in this world…remember Jesus is watching carefully and will return with justice!! God honours those who honours Him, if today we stand to honour Him..we will not be forsaken.
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
8 March 2016
Then they brought the colt to Jesus and threw their garments over it, and he sat on it. (Mark 11:7 NLT)
Why did they throw garments over the colt ??Could it be because the colt was was unclean? If we sit on anything unclean our garments will get unclean too..They cast their garments on the colt so that the colt will be clean for Jesus to sit on …. If we are the colt Jesus chose to ride on…we might also have to purify ourselves or get rid of the unclean for the spirit of God to dwell in us!!
Have a very blessed day! God Bless
Why did they throw garments over the colt ??Could it be because the colt was was unclean? If we sit on anything unclean our garments will get unclean too..They cast their garments on the colt so that the colt will be clean for Jesus to sit on …. If we are the colt Jesus chose to ride on…we might also have to purify ourselves or get rid of the unclean for the spirit of God to dwell in us!!
Have a very blessed day! God Bless
Monday, March 7, 2016
7th March 2016
“Go into that village over there,” he told them. “As soon as you enter it, you will see a young donkey tied there that no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here.”
(Mark 11:2 NLT)
When God calls us he knows us though no one knows us deep down, the destiny God has for us or the hunger we have for Christ ! Even though people won't see anything worth while in us God does. King James 2000 Bible says
And they went their way, and found the colt tied by the door outside in a place where two ways met; and they loosed him.…were we not between two things , (not all the way in bondage but not all the way in freedom) when He first found us?
Jesus told the disciples to loose the colt and bring him to Jesus! freeing a colt isn’t enough but to be lead to Jesus. After being loosed one should be lead to Christ, we all need a shepherd. No one can be a leader until he learns how to follow !!
We see instructions and mission, Disciples got instructions (to get the colt), the mission was for the colt. God may lead us to find some people not because ours is the mission but because God needs that person. Credit belongs to God for He directs us to them who are tied up. The colt had never been sat on before weren't we that colt too?? Isn't our glory because of Who we carry as a royalty, Christ??
(Mark 11:2 NLT)
When God calls us he knows us though no one knows us deep down, the destiny God has for us or the hunger we have for Christ ! Even though people won't see anything worth while in us God does. King James 2000 Bible says
And they went their way, and found the colt tied by the door outside in a place where two ways met; and they loosed him.…were we not between two things , (not all the way in bondage but not all the way in freedom) when He first found us?
Jesus told the disciples to loose the colt and bring him to Jesus! freeing a colt isn’t enough but to be lead to Jesus. After being loosed one should be lead to Christ, we all need a shepherd. No one can be a leader until he learns how to follow !!
We see instructions and mission, Disciples got instructions (to get the colt), the mission was for the colt. God may lead us to find some people not because ours is the mission but because God needs that person. Credit belongs to God for He directs us to them who are tied up. The colt had never been sat on before weren't we that colt too?? Isn't our glory because of Who we carry as a royalty, Christ??
Sunday, March 6, 2016
6 March 2016
Bartimaeus threw aside his coat, jumped up, and came to Jesus. “What do you want me to do for you?” Jesus asked. “My Rabbi, ” the blind man said, “I want to see!” And Jesus said to him, “Go, for your faith has healed you.” Instantly the man could see, and he followed Jesus down the road. (Mark 10:50-52 NLT)
Bartimeus had only HEARD of Jesus and his miracles..when he heard JESUS was passing by decided to receive his healing. His act of faith was seen in three steps, threw his coat away, he wouldn’t need it he believed, he jumped with joy because he had the faith in Christ the healer…!!
Why did Jesus ask “what do u want from me”, didn’t Jesus see the need? In few verses before the Zebedee Sons asks for a favour, which infuriated other disciples.. There was a difference in the request, one was asking for position, the other for mercy!!
ASKING a favour for MERCY IN FAITH, BELIEVING THAT JESUS CAN HEAL AND MAKE HIM WHOLE, Jesus not only healed but testifies of Bartimeus’ faith! He did not leave after his healing but instantly could see and started to follow jesus(A new disciple added!!).
When the so called disciples were asking for position, and glory…(they seem to have a spiritual blindness) Jesus made Bartimeus to “see” and follow as a disciple !!
Today Jesus is asking each of us what do we want Him to do for us? What are we asking for …..is it the world and its desires or a true sight? Just because we claim to be disciple is doesn’t mean we are healed completely of our blindness, let us pray without ceasing !!!
Bartimeus had only HEARD of Jesus and his miracles..when he heard JESUS was passing by decided to receive his healing. His act of faith was seen in three steps, threw his coat away, he wouldn’t need it he believed, he jumped with joy because he had the faith in Christ the healer…!!
Why did Jesus ask “what do u want from me”, didn’t Jesus see the need? In few verses before the Zebedee Sons asks for a favour, which infuriated other disciples.. There was a difference in the request, one was asking for position, the other for mercy!!
ASKING a favour for MERCY IN FAITH, BELIEVING THAT JESUS CAN HEAL AND MAKE HIM WHOLE, Jesus not only healed but testifies of Bartimeus’ faith! He did not leave after his healing but instantly could see and started to follow jesus(A new disciple added!!).
When the so called disciples were asking for position, and glory…(they seem to have a spiritual blindness) Jesus made Bartimeus to “see” and follow as a disciple !!
Today Jesus is asking each of us what do we want Him to do for us? What are we asking for …..is it the world and its desires or a true sight? Just because we claim to be disciple is doesn’t mean we are healed completely of our blindness, let us pray without ceasing !!!
Saturday, March 5, 2016
5th March 2016
==========
A personal statement : I have no intention to point fingers or hold these thoughts against any individual or group. I follow a reading plan as my way of learning and I highlight verses that touches me or makes me mull around. Accept my sincere apologies if these are not of your liking…:) let me know I will take ur name off my list :) Let’s talk the language of LOVE …
Cheers,
Geebz
============
So Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant,and whoever wants to be first among you must be the slave of everyone else. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:42-45)
We all tend to read the KJV but NLT speaks in more a common language…notice the words ”flaunt authority”, "Whoever wants to be a leader among you”! A few verses above these, we see Jesus speaking of his death and resurrection, that he would be betrayed. James and John asks a favour, if they could sit at Jesus’ right and left side when Jesus sits in His glorious throne. Jesus says it is not for him to decide who sits on his side. We see disciples were indignant after hearing what James and John asked, they mightn’t have paid attention to what Jesus said but were outraged! These words are said to that “mind bogged” disciples, the difference between the leaders and officials of this world and Kingdom of God! Leader needs to be a servant, whoever wants to be first must be a slave of everyone. What position do we need?? How far can we go to take up the servantship ?What humble service are we ready to do for God and to our brethren? Are we able to put the needs of others into our daily agendas? May God bless us to be good servants for Christ !!
Friday, March 4, 2016
4th March 2016
Salt is good for seasoning. But if it loses its flavor, how do you make it salty again? You must have the qualities of salt among yourselves and live in peace with each other.” (Mark 9:50, NLT)
In the olden times salt was used as a seasoning, a preservative, and as purifier. When salt is used to season, it not only adds flavour to the food but brings out the flavours thats present in the food, it enhances flavour ! How can we enhance the flavour? By a lot of effort, we have to continually cultivate a life of faith through prayer, worship, learning the Holy Bible. Even when challenging situations we need to handle them with perseverance and hope for it will refine and build our character. We need to cultivate it within us !!!
When salt is used to preserve it signifies permanence ..when something is salted, it will last longer both literally and symbolically. Being a person of faith is a long-term commitment requires perseverance
Salt is used as a purifying ward against evil. If we focus on wrong things(jealousy, resentment, blame, fear, fame, name) it can “contaminate” us. …. “have salt within yourselves” means to have a unique flavory, have perseverance, and to focus on the right things. However, we must understand although salt is powerful it can also symbolise destruction…Lot’s wife turned into a pillar or salt! Adding too much salt in food makes the food taste terrible. Let us not loose our flavour or be that salt that overpowers or harms but live in peace with everyone!
Thursday, March 3, 2016
3 March 2016
John said to him, "Teacher, we saw someone who doesn't follow us casting out demons in your name; and we forbade him, because he doesn't follow us." But Jesus said, "Don't forbid him, for there is no one who will do a mighty work in my name, and be able quickly to speak evil of me. For whoever is not against us is on our side. For whoever will give you a cup of water to drink in my name, because you are Christ's, most certainly I tell you, he will in no way lose his reward.” (MARK 9:38-41)
Just like his (their) nickname (John & James––the Sons of Thunder) John seems to be much ready to act hastily. He reports of what they did to someone who cast out demon using Jesus' name. John isn’t asking Jesus how to handle the person but says what they did probably expecting Jesus to praise or confirm their action. John says "he doesn't follow us.”. In modern language the "certified" disciples tried to stop an "uncertified" disciple but one who is successful in casting out demon using Jesus' name. I’m assuming John’s concern is not only with protecting the sanctity of Jesus' name, but also with protecting the disciples' unique status. They drew a circle to keep that person out. But Jesus who touched lepers, who ate with tax collectors and sinners RE-DRAWS a wide circle to include him too. This “someone” may not meet the standard of authentic discipleship, YET Jesus shows sympathy and encourages. It doesn’t mean Jesus will open doors to any religious activity, it had two conditions do "a mighty work.”, "in my name"––in the name of Jesus (not use His name in vain).
A similar thing occurred during Moses’s time. Moses appointed seventy elders, to whom God gave them gift of prophecy. 2 people who weren’t part of it prophesied which casued Joshua to ask Moses to stop them, but Moses said ..only if all of God’s people were prophets!
What is our stand…do we draw a circle too…or do we re-draw it like Christ or do we consider others as inferior or less?? Christ wants us all to GENUINELY put aside petty jealousies and to respect the gifts of those who work in His name(remember Jesus also warns of the deceivers) . However, these beliefs must adhere to the fundamentals of the faith and in-line with The Word of God!!
Just like his (their) nickname (John & James––the Sons of Thunder) John seems to be much ready to act hastily. He reports of what they did to someone who cast out demon using Jesus' name. John isn’t asking Jesus how to handle the person but says what they did probably expecting Jesus to praise or confirm their action. John says "he doesn't follow us.”. In modern language the "certified" disciples tried to stop an "uncertified" disciple but one who is successful in casting out demon using Jesus' name. I’m assuming John’s concern is not only with protecting the sanctity of Jesus' name, but also with protecting the disciples' unique status. They drew a circle to keep that person out. But Jesus who touched lepers, who ate with tax collectors and sinners RE-DRAWS a wide circle to include him too. This “someone” may not meet the standard of authentic discipleship, YET Jesus shows sympathy and encourages. It doesn’t mean Jesus will open doors to any religious activity, it had two conditions do "a mighty work.”, "in my name"––in the name of Jesus (not use His name in vain).
A similar thing occurred during Moses’s time. Moses appointed seventy elders, to whom God gave them gift of prophecy. 2 people who weren’t part of it prophesied which casued Joshua to ask Moses to stop them, but Moses said ..only if all of God’s people were prophets!
What is our stand…do we draw a circle too…or do we re-draw it like Christ or do we consider others as inferior or less?? Christ wants us all to GENUINELY put aside petty jealousies and to respect the gifts of those who work in His name(remember Jesus also warns of the deceivers) . However, these beliefs must adhere to the fundamentals of the faith and in-line with The Word of God!!
Wednesday, March 2, 2016
2 March 2016
And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? (Mark 8: 36,37)
Often times believers think this verse does not apply to them but to those who are not saved! This applies to anyone who spends all their energy seeking contentment based on possessions, position, or power. All the efforts is ultimately worthless if our intentions and motives are not right with God. The position/power/fame/name is what even spiritually anointed people may fall in trap for!! Whatever we have on earth or gained or attained is TEMPORARY; it cannot be exchanged for OUR soul. If we work hard at getting what we want, we might have a "pleasurable” life, but there will be a void/hollow and emptiness if it isn’t really entered around JESUS?? Let us continue the pursuit of God more than the selfish pursuit in all realms!! If we truly follow Jesus, we will OBEY him…He will show us what it means to live abundantly now and to have eternal life as well.
Often times believers think this verse does not apply to them but to those who are not saved! This applies to anyone who spends all their energy seeking contentment based on possessions, position, or power. All the efforts is ultimately worthless if our intentions and motives are not right with God. The position/power/fame/name is what even spiritually anointed people may fall in trap for!! Whatever we have on earth or gained or attained is TEMPORARY; it cannot be exchanged for OUR soul. If we work hard at getting what we want, we might have a "pleasurable” life, but there will be a void/hollow and emptiness if it isn’t really entered around JESUS?? Let us continue the pursuit of God more than the selfish pursuit in all realms!! If we truly follow Jesus, we will OBEY him…He will show us what it means to live abundantly now and to have eternal life as well.
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
1 March 2016
He looked up and said, "I see people; they look like trees walking around." Once more Jesus put his hands on the man's eyes. Then his eyes were opened, his sight was restored, and he saw everything clearly. (Mark 8:24,25)
Why did jesus use two steps to restore the blind man’s eye sight? Couldn’t he have it done at one go? At the fist stage the man sees with a blurred vision but when Jesus touches again he sees clearly. Is it telling us something about spiritual sight?
The chapter begins with Jesus feeding a 4000, then we see Pharisees coming to argue with Jesus, then Jesus & disciples leave on a boat. Jesus warns his discples of the "leaven of the Pharisees” referring to false teaching of the Pharisees. But disciples thought Jesus was talking about “literal" bread. Jesus then rebuked the disciples by asking how they could be SO BLIND after having seen and been with him.
Could this miracle have to show something about His disciples’ understanding of Jesus?? They could “see” but their understanding was still very poor, they needed a second touch. Their understanding was coming in stages. We might be church goers, know several verses of the bible, can re-tell several stories of the bible, but our sight/our proper understanding and revelation of Christ matters!! We all experience God in stages but let us ask God to heal us of any blurred or cloudy spiritual vision…At the end of the chapter we read about Peter’s revelation of Christ !!! Let us pray that healing to touch our inner eyes!
Why did jesus use two steps to restore the blind man’s eye sight? Couldn’t he have it done at one go? At the fist stage the man sees with a blurred vision but when Jesus touches again he sees clearly. Is it telling us something about spiritual sight?
The chapter begins with Jesus feeding a 4000, then we see Pharisees coming to argue with Jesus, then Jesus & disciples leave on a boat. Jesus warns his discples of the "leaven of the Pharisees” referring to false teaching of the Pharisees. But disciples thought Jesus was talking about “literal" bread. Jesus then rebuked the disciples by asking how they could be SO BLIND after having seen and been with him.
Could this miracle have to show something about His disciples’ understanding of Jesus?? They could “see” but their understanding was still very poor, they needed a second touch. Their understanding was coming in stages. We might be church goers, know several verses of the bible, can re-tell several stories of the bible, but our sight/our proper understanding and revelation of Christ matters!! We all experience God in stages but let us ask God to heal us of any blurred or cloudy spiritual vision…At the end of the chapter we read about Peter’s revelation of Christ !!! Let us pray that healing to touch our inner eyes!
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)