"A CONSPIRACY of the People"

 

Ezekiel 22:29 "The people of the land have used oppression, and exercised robbery, and have vexxed the poor and needy: yea, they have oppressed the stranger wrongfully."

     Despite the fact that the sad condition to which GOD's people found themselves came about due to corrupt, conspiratorial leadership, the people actually could blame no one but themselves: "The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and MY people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof ?" (Jeremiah 5:21-31). The prophets, priests, and princes could not have continued in their treachery and deceit if the people had stood by the WORD of GOD and refused to follow these deceivers. Amazingly, what happened in Ezekiel's day is happening again today. Many of the tragic occurrences in the Christian world are the direct result of too many believers following the course of least resistance. They first tolerate false teaching and compromise in the churches they attend; next they learn to go along with it, and finally, they are taken over by it. Sometimes they complain when situations get bad, but by then it is generally too late. Conspiracies of every kind need to be exposed at the earliest possible moment even though the deceived would prefer not to be disturbed.

     Whenever GOD's people forsake HIM, the FOUNTAIN of LIVING WATERs, they are only left with "broken cisterns, that can hold no water" (Jeremiah 2:13 pictured above). Try as they may to find alternative sources of peace and satisfaction, all will fail them. Sadly, it is so easy to come to the place where we hypocritically honor the LORD with our lips while our heart is actually far from HIM (Isaiah 29:13 pictured above; Matthew 15:7-9). If we are to be of any use to GOD, then we must be willing to submit to HIS will. Those who forsake HIS WORD will fall victim to the conspirators and become "good for nothing" (Jeremiah 13:10). MHR

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"A CONSPIRACY of the Princes"

 

Ezekiel 22:27 "Her princes in the midst thereof are like wolves ravening the prey, to shed blood, and to destroy souls, to get dishonest gain."

     The conspiracy in Ezekiel's day involved not only religious leaders but political ones as well. Today's text describes the princes as ravenous wolves who used their political power to shed innocent blood, destroy souls, and acquire dishonest gain. In Isaiah 1:23 (pictured above) the LORD further described them as "rebellious," companions of thieves, "lovers of gifts, and seekers of rewards, refusing to give justice to the fatherless or widows. GOD also depicted these wicked leaders to Micah 7:1-7 as devious politicians who "do evil with both hands earnestly, the prince asketh, and the judge asketh for a reward; and the great man, he uttereth his mischievous desire: so they wrap it up."

     Such descriptions sound as if they could have come from today's news reports regarding the deceit and fraud of political leaders in our own country and around the world. It is no wonder that GOD warns HIS people: "Put not your trust in princes, nor in the son of man, in whom there is no help" (Psalm 146:3 pictured above). Several well-known, conservative religious leaders in our day wrongly encourage believers to support groups such as the Reconstructionists (Christians trying to rebuild society) or the Dominionists (Christians attempting to take over society), both of which emphasize an effort to bring about the kingdom of GOD upon the Earth through a mixture of political reform, economic planning, and religion. However, our responsibility is to preach the Gospel to every creature and thereby also teach them the WORD of GOD; for this is man's true need. Politicians cannot bring to pass CHRIST's kingdom; only HIS coming return can and will accomplish that glorious end. The prophecies on the Millennial kingdom will literally be fulfilled at that time. MHR

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"The Most Important Vitamin Supplement"

 

Psalm 105:1-8

"O give thanks unto the LORD;

call upon HIS name: 

make known HIS deeds among the people.

Sing unto HIM, sing psalms unto HIM:

talk ye of all HIS wondrous works. 

Glory ye in HIS Holy name: 

let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD.

Seek the LORD, and HIS strength:

seek HIS face evermore.

Remember HIS marvelous works that HE hath done;

HIS wonders, and the judgments of HIS chosen. 

HE is the LORD our GOD; 

HIS judgments are in all the Earth.

HE hath remembered HIS covenant for ever, 

the WORD which HE commanded 

to a thousand generations."

     Many see the importance of taking vitamin A, B, C, D, and E supplements. However, one vitamin is far more important than these. It is vitamin G. Apparently, "vitamin G" is an outdated name for riboflavin, a B-vitamin that supports eye, heart, nerve, and antioxidant health. This may be helpful, but the true vitamin G has more health benefits than all other vitamins and supplements combined. The G stands for "Gratitude," and this supplement is not taken once a day but, rather, continually throughout the day. The attitude of gratitude is to be constant, "giving thanks always for all things unto GOD and the FATHER in the name of our LORD JESUS CHRIST" (Ephesians 5:20). The Gratitude supplement is recognized for its significant emotional and spiritual value and is defined as "an appreciation or thanks for benefits received": "Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all HIS benefits" (Psalm 103:2). Vitamin G contributes to overall well-being and to a life that is content and satisfied. Practicing gratitude can increase joy and improve inner health by fostering a GOD-conscious outlook on life. Failure to take Vitamin G will result in crankiness, discouragement, self-pity, and many other negative effects. Indeed, this is the one vitamin that GOD commands us to take -- "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of GOD in CHRIST JESUS concerning you" (1st.Thessalonians 5:18). Incorporating thanksgiving as a daily habit will translate into "thanks-living"; enjoying a life that is bursting with praise and appreciation for all that GOD has done. Have you counted your spiritual blessings lately ? Are you grateful for all that you have in CHRIST (Ephesians 1:3 pictured above)? Do not neglect the most essential vitamin of all, Gratitude ! GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"GOD'S Message to You"

 

After being a Christian for well over 30 years; I've heard many messages. But you will never hear a greater message than the one contained in this post - GOD's Message - to you.

The Bible Declares. . .

1. ALL HAVE SINNED

"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" Romans 3:23.

"The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?" Jeremiah 17:9.

"All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on HIM the iniquity of us all." Isaiah 53:6.

The Bible Declares. . .

2. SIN'S PENALTY

"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD." Romans 6:23.

"And Death and Hell were cast into the Lake of Fire. This is the second death." Revelation 20:14.

The Bible Declares. . .

3. SIN'S PENALTY WAS PAID

"But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us."  Romans 5:8.

"For CHRIST also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that HE might bring us to GOD, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the SPIRIT:" 1st.Peter 3:18.

"Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved, . .For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:" 1st.Corinthians 15:1-2a,3-4.

The Bible Declares. . .

4. WE MUST REPENT (A turning to GOD from your sin)

"For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of but the sorrow of the world worketh death." (2nd.Corinthians 7:10).

"Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts and let him return unto the LORD, and HE will have mercy upon him, and to our GOD, for HE will abundantly pardon." Isaiah 53:7.

The Bible Declares. . .

5. WE MUST RECEIVE CHRIST

"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 1:12.

We need to exercise our faith by receiving JESUS as our personal LORD and SAVIOR. Faith and repentance (a turning to GOD from your sin) are both necessary for salvation.

The Bible Declares. . .

6. YOU CAN BE SAVED TODAY, IF YOU WANT TO BE

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the LORD JESUS, and shalt believe in thine heart that GOD hath raised HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved." Romans 10:9.

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." Romans 10:13.

GOD LOVES YOU AND WANTS

YOU TO EXPERIENCE PEACE

AND ETERNITY IN HEAVEN

WITH HIM.

I hope you noticed the caption at the top of this post that read "GOD's Message to You." Scripture is GOD's WORD - HIS message to us - and not our "theory." We pray that after reading these six thoughts from GOD's WORD that you believe the message GOD has given us. HE gives free pardon of sin, and a "know-so" salvation. You don't have to hope that GOD will save you or hope that someday you will go to Heaven. The Bible says in 1st.John 5:13, "These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the SON of GOD, that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the SON of GOD."

Do you know where you're going when you die ?

WHAT YOU MUST DO:

1. Admit your need of a SAVIOR (I am a sinner).

2. Be willing to turn to GOD from your sin (repentance).

3. Believe that JESUS CHRIST died on the cross and rose again for you.

4. Through prayer, invite JESUS to come into your heart and life (receive HIM as your personal LORD and SAVIOR).

If you would be willing to turn to CHRIST In repentance and faith, pray this simple prayer of salvation:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me. Come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for you always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

I hope that the above post has moved you to repentance and faith in JESUS CHRIST right now, before it is too late. GOD's WORD tells us in 2nd.Corinthians 6:2b, "Behold, Now is the accepted time; Behold, Now is the day of salvation." No one is promised any more time than the moment you are now living. Receive CHRIST today !

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"How THANKFUL Are You ?"

 

2nd.Timothy 3:1-2 "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,"

     The wicked spirit of the age sadly has affected not only the unregenerate world but, far too often, even the hearts of Christians. In today's text, one of the evidences of "the last days" is unthankfulness. The apostle's command in Colossians 3:15 is "be ye thankful," and Paul repeats the same admonition in other verses in this epistle as well: "Do all in the name of the LORD JESUS, giving thanks to GOD and the FATHER by HIM" (Colossians 3:17); "giving thanks unto the FATHER. . ." (Colossians 1:12). The Old Testament likewise directs the believer to have a spirit of thankfulness. Psalm 100:4 exhorts the reader to "enter into [GOD's] gates with thanksgiving, and into HIS courts with praise: be thankful unto HIM, and bless HIS name." The prophet Jonah declared, "But I will sacrifice unto THEE with the voice of thanksgiving. .." (Jonah 2:9 pictured above).

     If we nurture a spirit of thanksgiving toward our heavenly FATHER, it will help to foster in us a spirit of appreciation toward others as well when they have gifted us or encouraged us or dealt with us in kindness. Indeed, we will learn to be thankful for even the simplest things in life, recognizing that all that we are or have comes from GOD and is often ministered to us through other people. Let us heed the LORD's calls to thankfulness and not join the spirit of the age, which leads to ingratitude. Allow the HOLY SPIRIT to work in your heart and challenge you to be thankful. "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto GOD" (Philippians 4:6 pictured above). "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of GOD in CHRIST JESUS concerning you" (1st.Thessalonians 5:18). How thankful are you ? JED

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.   www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"REAL Contentment"

 

1st.Timothy 6:1-8 " Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, that the name of GOD and HIS doctrine be not blasphemed. And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort. If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the WORDs of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; he is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strife's of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmising's, perverse disputing's of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content."

     Many today fall short of the LORD's will concerning the area of contentment. They find themselves in company with those described in verse five -- "supposing that gain is godliness" -- rather than joining the faithful few who recognize the truth of verse six (pictured above) "But godliness with contentment is great gain." This "great gain" is a value that GOD, not man, places upon SPIRIT-wrought godliness. The false charismatic teaching that health, wealth, and prosperity are always GOD's will for the believer has crept into even some fundamental churches. Many fail to distinguish the earthly, temporal blessings promised to Israel under the Law from the spiritual blessings the LORD provides to all who are IN CHRIST JESUS in this present dispensation.

     No person without CHRIST can ever find true satisfaction, and no Christian who is more interested in his own comfort than in perfect submission to the will of GOD can experience the genuine contentment the LORD provides for all who walk by faith, not by sight. Believers must realize that favorable circumstances alone do not yield happiness and that every child of GOD can experience sincere joy even amid the most difficult conditions and in the deepest trials. Authentic satisfaction in life depends upon simple faith in the many great and precious promises of GOD. We will know heartfelt gladness when our complete confidence is in the truth of Romans 8:28 (pictured above) --that GOD will work out HIS purpose in us for our good. It is a mistake to follow the way of the world, which seeks gratification in all the wrong places. May we remember that contentment is guaranteed to the believer who yields to the HOLY SPIRIT rather than the flesh. MHR

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"Do We Even Care ?"

 

Ezekiel 9:1-11 "HE cried also in mine ears with a loud voice, saying, Cause them that have charge over the city to draw near, even every man with his destroying weapon in his hand. And behold, six men came from the way of the higher gate, which lieth toward the north, and every man a slaughter weapon in his hand; and one man among them was clothed with linen, with a writer's inkhorn by his side; and they went in, and stood beside the brazen altar. And the glory of the GOD of Israel was gone up from the cherub, whereupon HE was, to the threshold of the house. And HE called to the man clothed with linen, which had the writer's inkhorn by his side; and the LORD said unto him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof.

And to the others HE said in mine hearing. Go ye after him through the city, and smite: let not your eye spare, neither have ye pity; slay utterly old and young, both maids, and little children, and women: but come not near any man upon whom is the mark: and begin at MY sanctuary. Then they began at the ancient men which were before the house. And HE said unto them. Defile the house, and fill the courts with the slain: go ye forth. And they went forth, and slew in the city

And it came to pass, while they were slaying them, and I was left, that I fell upon my face and cried, and said, Ah, LORD GOD ! wilt THOU destroy all the residue of Israel in THY pouring out of THY fury upon Jerusalem ? Then said HE unto me. The iniquity of the house of Israel and Judah is exceeding great, and the land is full of blood, and the city full of perverseness: for they say, The LORD hath forsaken the Earth, and the LORD seeth not. And as for ME also, MINE eye shall not spare, neither will I have pity, but I will recompense their way upon their head. And, behold, the man clothed with linen, which had the inkhorn by his side, reported the matter, saying, I have done as thou hast commanded me."

     In this portion of Ezekiel's vision, the prophet sees GOD's judgment poured out upon all in Jerusalem who were linked to the "image of jealousy" discussed in chapter eight. The just and righteous indignation of the LORD had been ignited. Today's text emphasizes an important element of GOD justice that we often overlook - not only were all who actually committed the abominations guilty in HIS eyes, but those who took a neutral stance concerning the wickedness in the land were culpable as well. In other words, the inhabitants of Jerusalem who did not perform the sins being committed by the elders but who were unbothered by these abominations were just as guilty of spiritual infidelity. The LORD distinguished between those who were concerned about the ever-growing apostasy and those who were spiritually apathetic, and HE spared the individuals who lamented over Judah's spiritual condition (vv.4-6).

     What about us ? Do we really care whether or not the truth of GOD's WORD is compromised and trampled underfoot by false teachers and their followers ? Are we grieved over the fact that multitudes are being deceived by the ecumenical movement, the charismatic movement, Catholicism, and the myriads of cults ? It should break our heart that deluded multitudes are facing eternity with a false hope that will condemn them to a Devil's Hell. When truth is compromised, indifference is unacceptable. GOD told Ezekiel to sound a warning: "Prophesy against them, prophesy, O son of man" (Ezekiel 11:4 pictured above). We cannot be silent when the righteous will of an all-Holy GOD is cast aside for worldly, man-centered "religious" efforts. The souls of men, women, and children are at stake ! Do we even care ? DWC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation