Friday, October 4, 2024

"My Approach to GOD"

 

Hebrews 4:9-16 "There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of GOD. For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as GOD did from HIS. Let us labor therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. For the WORD of GOD is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in HIS sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of HIM with WHOM we have to do. Seeing then that we have a great HIGH PRIEST, that is passed into the heavens, JESUS the SON Of GOD, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an HIGH PRIEST which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that ye may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need."
How are we, as believers, to approach GOD:

( 1) I approach GOD with a sense of duty. "Men ought always to pray" (Luke 18:1). It is my moral obligation to maintain constant contact and communication with my GOD.

( 2) I approach GOD with a sense of delight. Consider the example of Anna (Luke 2:37) who had a faithful and fulfilling prayer life. To her, prayer was a daily delight and joy.

( 3) I approach GOD with a sense of privilege. What an honor it is to say. "My FATHER," and to come before the throne of grace (not the throne of judgment).

( 4) I approach GOD with an attitude of humility (a bowed head, bended knee, and yielded heart). I am in the presence of GOD. I have no inherent right to be before GOD. It is only by HIS grace that I come.

( 5) I approach GOD with confidence (Hebrews 10:19). Boldly I approach (v.16) ! I know my sins are taken care of forever (Hebrews 10:17) ! I know I am fully accepted in CHRIST (Ephesians 1:6) ! I know I am dressed in HIS righteousness, faultless to stand before HIS throne !

( 6) I approach GOD with reverence (see the example of CHRIST in John 17:11,25). May I never forget WHO it is that receives my prayers. 

( 7) I approach GOD with thanksgiving (Colossians 4:2 pictured above). Whenever I go to pray, I must make sure to take thanksgiving with me !

( 8) I approach GOD fervently -- with intensity, energy, and earnestness (Colossians 4:2,12).

( 9) I approach GOD with alertness. I must stay awake and maintain mental clarity (Colossians 4:2). "Watch and pray" (Matthew 26:40-41) !

(10) I approach GOD in submission. HE is not a "genie" to WHOM I demand what I want. "Not my will but THINE be done !" May the attitude of my heart be this: "I delight to do THY will, O my GOD" (Psalm 40:8). GWZ

"Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." (Hebrews 4:16)
Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie
Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.
Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation



Tuesday, October 1, 2024

" Critical Days "

 

1st.Timothy 2:1-4 " I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of GOD our SAVIOR; WHO will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth."
     The United States of America is facing a most critical time as a nation. In just over a month, we, the people, will be a part of the process of electing a president, our commander in chief. Throughout this past year, the news has been filled with reports of protests and counter protests, many of them anything but peaceful. Disorder and dissension have been the course of the day in numerous cities. Yet, the process of choosing a president and other elected officials goes on. We are still a nation of laws; we have a Constitution that guarantees us certain rights as citizens of this land. 
     Chaos and destruction seem to abound on every hand, but GOD is still on HIS throne as SOVEREIGN of this world. We as believers do have recourse -- aside from just the ballot box. Listen to the words of the Apostle Paul in today's Scripture text: "I exhort therefore, that first of all supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of GOD our SAVIOR; WHO will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth." Yes, we can, should, and must pray. The forces of satanic evil have gathered to destroy the country we love and the principles upon which it was founded. Heed Paul's words to pray for our president and the leaders of our nation -- all who are in authority -- in order that we may, in freedom, continue to live peaceable lives in all godliness and honesty. It is the right thing to do, and it will give us opportunities to be a witness for our LORD. So pray, vote, and continue to pray. Our hope is in the LORD ! JED
Your servant in the LORD,
Julie
Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.
Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation