" Is Something MISSING in YOUR Life ?"

 

WHAT IS MISSING ?

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My Friend, are you dead or alive ? Do you ever feel that there is something important missing from your life ? A vital part of your existence that isn't there, and has never been there ? An empty void and longing, deep within the depths of your soul, crying out to be filled ?

HOW DID IT HAPPEN ?

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In the Garden of Eden, before man's fall, Adam and Eve were alive, that is, they were "spiritually" alive. They walked in perfection, and oneness with GOD. "And the LORD GOD commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the Garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die." (Genesis 2:16-17)

On that day, when they disobeyed GOD and ate of the fruit, they died a "spiritual" death. Sin entered in, and they were separated from GOD. Since then, every one of us has been born into sin. "Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:" (Romans 5:12). "Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me." (Psalm 51:5) "As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:" (Romans 3:10) "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" (Romans 3:23)

The results of sin are a spiritual death, a physical death, and if you die without JESUS CHRIST, an eternal death. This is eternal separation from GOD in a Devil's Hell.

WHAT HAS BEEN DONE ABOUT IT ?

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JESUS CHRIST, the GOD-MAN, was not a partaker of man's sinful bloodline. HE was perfect, sinless, righteous, holy, born of a virgin, and GOD in the flesh. "In the beginning was the WORD, and the WORD was with GOD, and the WORD was GOD. The same was in the beginning with GOD. All things were made by HIM; and without HIM was not any thing made that was made." (John 1:1-3) "And the WORD was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld HIS glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the FATHER,) full of grace and truth." (John 1:14)

HE came to seek and to save that which was lost. HE offered HIMSELF the perfect, sinless sacrifice unto GOD, to redeem man from the sin which separates him from GOD. "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)  HE came to give life back unto men. ". . .I AM come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly." (John 10:10)  "Verily, verily, I say unto you, he that heareth MY WORD, and believeth on HIM that sent ME, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. Verily, verily, I say unto you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the SON of GOD: and they that hear shall live." (John 5:24-25)

NOW IT IS UP TO YOU.

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My Friend, do you hear HIS voice calling you through these Scriptures ? HE wants to breathe life into you. This receiving of new life from JESUS CHRIST is what HE called being born again. We see this in the Bible when JESUS tells Nicodemus, ". . .Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of GOD. . .That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the SPIRIT is spirit." (John 3:3,6)

My Friend, repent ! Repentance is a turning to GOD from your sin, and embracing the LORD JESUS CHRIST by faith and be born of GOD. GOD promised in Romans 10:9,13 "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. . .For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." 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, AMEN.

When you turn to GOD, the missing link will be found, and the empty void will be filled. You will be one with GOD. HE will be your FATHER, and you will be HIS son/daughter. You can rejoice with us in this great truth forever. AMEN ! "He that hath the SON hath life; and he that hath not the SON hath not life." (1st.John 5:12)

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

" GOD Loves You ! "

 

"For GOD so loved the world, 

that HE gave HIS only begotten

SON, that whosoever believes 

in HIM should not perish, but

have everlasting life." ~ John 3:16

     This great Bible verse reveals four truths from the heart of GOD for all people.

We are loved.

GOD wants us to know that we are loved. The LORD JESUS said, "For GOD so loved the world. . ."  You are part of this world, and GOD loves you. HE gave HIS SON for you, and HE wants you ". . .to know the love of CHRIST. . ." (Ephesians 3:19).

We are of worth.

The LORD also wants us to know that we are of worth. We are so dear to GOD ". . .that HE gave HIS only begotten SON. . ."

The Bible teaches us that we are all sinners. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD" (Romans 3:23). And sin must be paid for. "For the wages of sin is death. . ." (Romans 6:23).

But the Bible also teaches us that ". . .CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures" (1st.Corinthians 15:3). GOD demonstrated HIS love for us and our worth to HIM when HE sent HIS SON to die in our place.

The good news is that the LORD JESUS paid our sin debt in full when HE died on the cross, "For HE hath made HIM to be sin for us. . ." (2nd.Corinthians 5:21). CHRIST loved us and gave HIMSELF for us as payment for our sin.

You may ask, "How can GOD forgive my sin ?" HE can because of what JESUS did. ". . .While we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us" (Romans 5:8).

We can have hope.

GOD wants us to know that we can have hope. HE said ". . .that whosoever believes in HIM should not perish. . ."  Life is fragile, and people are perishing. But CHRIST came ". . .that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly" (John 10:10).

In a world where so many have lost hope, GOD wants us to know that the ". . .LORD JESUS CHRIST. . .is our hope" (1st.Timothy 1:1). When HE arose from the dead, HE said, ". . .Because I live, ye shall live also" (John 14:19).

We can have purpose.

GOD wants us to know that we can have purpose in life. HE desires that we ". . .should not perish, but have everlasting life."  "And this is the promise that HE hath promised us, even eternal life" (1st.John 2:25).

     You may ask, "How can I receive GOD's promise of eternal life ?"

Acknowledge that you are a sinner, "for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD" (Romans 3:23).

Believe that the LORD JESUS died for you, for "CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures" (1st.Corinthians 15:3).

Call upon the LORD to save you, "for whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved" (Romans 10:13).

     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.

     The LORD JESUS said, ". . .I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish. . ." (John 10:29)  Everlasting life is ours when we receive CHRIST as our personal SAVIOR.

Now that you're a Christian:

*  Share your new-found faith with your family and friends (Acts 16:31-33).

*  Identify with CHRIST through believer's baptism and become part of a local Bible-believing church (Acts 2:41,47)

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

GULF COAST

BAPTIST CHURCH

312 SE 24th. Avenue

Cape Coral, FL 33990

(239) 574-1000

GulfCoastBaptistChurch@aol.com

www.gulfcoastbaptistchurch.com

" Born to Trouble ! "

 

Job 5:6-7  "Although affliction cometh not forth of the dust neither doth trouble spring out of the ground; yet man is born unto trouble, as the sparks fly upward."

     For certain people, this life can be exceedingly difficult. Some face one problem after another. Perhaps an illness strikes and gets resolved, only to be followed by a tragedy in which the person loses his or her earthly possessions. Then, a close relationship, maybe a marriage, dissolves. The list of life's troubles is varied and boundless. Job knew these misfortunes firsthand. The opening two chapters of this book are stunning in their seeming cruelty and injustice - if looked upon from a purely human, temporal perspective. Here is a man, living in obedience to the LORD to the best of his ability, seeking to do all he can to follow the LORD. Job was reputed for his godly reverence and for abstaining from evil (Job 1:1 pictured above), and he even presented offerings to GOD on behalf of his family members just in case they should sin against HIM (Job 1:5). Despite his faithfulness to the LORD, Job had his possessions and livelihood taken from him (Job 1:13-17); additionally, that very same day, his grown children tragically all died (Job 1:19). His troubles continued into the next chapter when his own health deteriorated.

     GOD never explained to Job why any of this fell upon him, why he had to endure such heartache and pain in this life. Even in the final chapters, after Job and his friends had complained and traded accusations and conjectures, the LORD did not reveal HIS divine purposes to Job (Chapters 38-41). Pointing to many examples within HIS creation, GOD demonstrated that, ultimately, it is HE who is in control of our circumstances, regardless of how tragic or "unfair" they might seem. Job learned this important lesson (Job 42:1-5 partially pictured above), and may we, likewise, acknowledge GOD's sovereign authority over all. GDF

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

" A Light for Our Way ! "

 

Psalm 119:105-112  "THY WORD is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep THY righteous judgments. I am afflicted very much: quicken me, O LORD, according unto THY WORD. Accept, I beseech, THEE, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD, and teach me THY judgments. My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget THY Law. The wicked have laid a snare for me: yet I erred not from THY precepts. THY testimonies have I taken as an heritage fore ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart. I have inclined mine heart to perform THY statutes always, even unto the end."

     The Bible enables the believer not to stumble in this dark, sin-cursed world: "THY WORD is a lamp unto my feet" (v.105a). The WORD of GOD also offers encouragement for walking along the path of uprightness, for it promises that the LORD will meet our distresses and weaknesses with HIS enabling grace (v.107). The enemy will do whatever he can to cause us to fall, but GOD's illuminating truth will reveal to us the snares (v.110). Finally, the WORD also will provide its readers with true, inner joy (v.111 pictured above). When we consider all of the aforementioned blessings the Scriptures have to offer, we must keep in mind that what the LORD gives, we must personally receive - "THY testimonies have I taken" (v.111a). We must apply the WORD's light to our life, for it is only when we allow it to guide us that we can be sure not to falter.

     Notice the psalmist's response to the light: "I have inclined mine heart to perform THY statutes always" (v.112 pictured above). Our continual heartfelt desire should be to accomplish the FATHER's will, for therein lies the key to walking in the light. Many professing Christians know the right path but they refuse to follow it - it is no wonder, then, that so many fall for Satan's devices. A determined resolution to obey the WORD must be in the believer's heart before he can hope to enjoy its blessings (v.106). The ever-present dangers of the enemy and, for some, even the threat of physical death should serve as constant reminders to the Christian of the brevity of life and, therefore, the supreme importance of living that life by the light of the WORD (vv.109-110). We can count on the WORD of GOD to guide us safely through life's journey to that heavenly city. DWC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

" Righteous Indignation ! "

 

Psalm 119:97-104  "O how love I THY law ! it is my meditation all the day. THOU through THY commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. I have more understanding than all my teachers: for THY testimonies are my meditation. I understand more than the ancients, because I keep THY precepts. I have refrained my feet from every evil way, that I might keep THY WORD. I have not departed from THY judgments: for THOU hast taught me. How sweet are THY WORDs unto my taste ! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth ! Through THY precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way."

     The LORD grants spiritual understanding to those who love HIM with a pure heart and are willing to walk in the light of HIS precious WORD: "Through THY precepts I get understanding (v.104a). Our love for the truth should motivate us to dig deep into the Scriptures, and as long as we do not allow sin to harden our heart and dull our ears, the HOLY SPIRIT will speak to us through the WORD. The psalmist loved GOD's Law and pondered its truth night and day, so it is no wonder that his study of Scriptures resulted in a knowledge that surpassed even the learned (vv.97-100). Notice, too, that connection between understanding the Bible and obeying it: "I understand. . .because I keep THY precepts" (v.100 pictured above). Often we rebel against the LORD and then wonder why the Bible seems to have lost its attraction, yet deep down we know the answer. We yearn for GOD's WORD only when we are walking in HIS will.

     Notice the final phrase of our text: "Therefore I hate every false way" (v.104b). How different this mindset is from what we hear today. Both the world and much of Christendom tell us to always be positive and never negative. They advise us to always look for the good in everything, even if that requires a conscious oversight of the bad. NO ! We must label and handle accordingly anything that is contrary to the divine standard of GOD's WORD. The HOLY SPIRIT will never lead a believer to endorse what GOD condemns or to accept what GOD rejects. Let us meditate on today's text and ask ourselves if GOD would have us to be a bit more negative at times. If we truly love GOD's Law (v.97 pictured above), we will battle against and "hate every false way" (v.104b). DWC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

" The Burning Hell ! "

 

     GOD has prepared a place of eternal punishment for all those who reject HIM. It is called Hell, and it is a place of everlasting fire. The Bible, GOD's Holy WORD, states in Psalm 9:17, "The wicked shall be turned into Hell, and all the nations that forget GOD." Also in John 3:36 it states, "He that believes on the SON has everlasting life: and he that believes not the SON shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abides on him."

     Hell was originally prepared for the Devil and his angels (demons). The Bible says in Matthew 25:42, ". . .Depart from ME, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels:" However, if you reject GOD's SON, JESUS CHRIST, and the payment HE has made for you, you will spend all eternity in Hell !

     Should you reject GOD and go to Hell, you will never again be bothered by a Christian giving you a Gospel tract or post. Nor will you have to worry about anyone knocking on your door and inviting you to church again. However, you will remember every sermon you ever heard, every Gospel tract or post that you rejected, and every kind word from a Christian friend pleading with you to be saved.

     The Bible tells the story of a man who went to Hell. It says, ". . .the rich man also died, and was buried; and in Hell he lifted up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame." (Luke 16:22-24) Should you reject GOD and the opportunities HE has given you to trust HIM, you too will one day be like the rich man that you just read about. You will be crying and begging for one drop of water to cool your scorched tongue, but it will be too late !

     My Friend, PLEASE don't let anyone convince you that when you die it will all be over. The Bible says in Hebrews 9:27, "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:" GOD says judgment will follow your death. Now is the time to get ready to meet HIM, because your Judgment Day could be today !

     JESUS asked this question in Matthew 23:33: ". . .how can ye escape the damnation of hell ?" The answer is so simple, and it is found in GOD's Holy WORD. To escape Hell, you must first realize that you are a sinner, and that you deserve Hell because of your sins. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" (Romans 3:23)  "For the wages of sin is death. . ." (Romans 6:23a)

     Secondly, you must realize that JESUS CHRIST, GOD's only SON, paid sin's penalty that you deserve. The Bible states in Romans 5:8 "But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." Also the Gospel is simply stated in 1st.Corinthians 15:1-2a,3-4,  "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:" JESUS CHRIST left Heaven and came into this world of sorrow. Just think, HE left the streets of gold and the rejoicing of angels to come to this Earth and be crucified, so you could escape the burning Hell. John 3:16 says, "For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believes in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life."

     There is nothing that you can do to earn this gift of everlasting life. The Bible says, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of GOD: Not of works, lest any man should boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9)

     Finally, you must ask JESUS CHRIST to save you. Romans 10:9-10,13 says, "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. For with the heart man believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. . .For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." 

     If you would be willing to turn to CHRIST in repentance (a turning to GOD from your sin) and faith; to be saved from the burning Hell, pray this simple prayer or one like it:

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.

     Please do not reject GOD. The Bible gives you this final warning: "And whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the Lake of Fire." Let GOD write your name in the LAMBS Book of Life. Trust HIM today !

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

" Come to the LIGHT ! "

 

John 3:16-19 "For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believes in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life. For GOD sent not HIS SON into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through HIM might be saved. He that believes on HIM is not condemned: but he that believes not is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten SON of GOD. And this is the condemnation, that LIGHT has come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil."

     GOD's desire for man is not condemnation but salvation: "For GOD sent not HIS SON into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through HIM might be saved" (v.17). This is why the previous verse assures us that "GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believes in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life" (v.16). Those wonderful words, recorded by John, fell from the lips of JESUS. HE went on to say, "He that believes on HIM is not condemned: but he that believes not is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten SON of GOD (v.18). Some people respond that GOD is not fair, that HE is somehow at fault for their unbelief. But JESUS continued on to explain the condemnation: "This is the condemnation, that LIGHT is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil" (v.19).

     In describing JESUS CHRIST, the living WORD, John had already revealed that "in HIM [CHRIST] was life; and the life was the light of men. And the LIGHT shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not" (John 1:4-5 2nd picture above). Men did not eagerly seize upon the LIGHT, and yet, the LIGHT continues to shine. So, today, the majority of people will not come to the LIGHT because their deeds are evil, they hate the LIGHT, and they do not want to be reproved. But JESUS said, "He that doeth truth cometh to the LIGHT, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in GOD" (John 3:21 pictured above). "Come to the LIGHT, tis shining for thee; Sweetly the LIGHT has dawned upon me; Once I was blind, but now I can see; The LIGHT of the world is JESUS." Yes, HE is truly the "LIGHT of life" (John 8:12 pictured below). JED

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

" ALL THIS I DID FOR YOU ! "

 

I CAME. . . .because of your sin.

"This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that CHRIST JESUS came into the world to save sinners;"   (1st.Timothy 1:15a)

"As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:"    (Romans 3:10)

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

I DIED. . . .to pay for your sin.

"But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us. Much more then, being now justified by HIS blood, we shall be saved from wrath through HIM."  (Romans 5:8-9)

"But HE was wounded for our transgressions, HE was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon HIM; and with HIS stripes we are healed."    (Isaiah 53:5)

"In WHOM we have redemption through HIS blood, even the forgiveness of sins:"    (Colossians 1:14)

"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)

I AROSE. . . .to keep you saved eternally.

"And this is the record, that GOD hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in HIS SON."     (1st.John 5:11)

"Wherefore HE is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto GOD by HIM, seeing HE ever liveth to make intercession for them."     (Hebrews 7:25)

"MY sheep hear MY voice, and I know them, and they follow ME: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of MY hand."      (John 10:27-28)

YOU MUST REPENT. . . .Repentance is a turning to GOD from your sin, admitting you are guilty and that you cannot do anything to save or help save yourself. 

"I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish."    (Luke 13:3)

"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. For MY thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways MY ways, saith the LORD."    (Isaiah 55:7-8)

"Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to HIS mercy HE saved us,"     (Titus 3:5a)

"But to him that worketh not, but believeth on HIM that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness."      (Romans 4:5)

YOU MUST TRUST. . . .putting your complete faith in JESUS CHRIST to save you.

"For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believes in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life."    (John 3:16)

"HE staggered not at the promise of GOD through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to GOD; and being fully persuaded that, what HE had promised, HE was able also to perform."    (Romans 4:20-21)

"To declare, I say, at this time HIS righteousness: that HE might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in JESUS. . .Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the Law."    (Romans 3:26,28)

You may ask, "How can I receive GOD's forgiveness and promise of eternal life ?"

Acknowledge that you are a sinner, "for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD" (Romans 3:23)

Believe that the LORD JESUS died for you, for "CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures" (1st.Corinthians 15:3)

Call upon the LORD to save you, whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved" (Romans 10:13)

If you would be willing to turn to CHRIST in repentance and faith, pray this simple prayer or one like it:

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.

WHAT IS YOUR DECISION ?

____  I choose to trust JESUS as my personal SAVIOR.

"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. For with the heart man believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. . .For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved."    (Romans 10:9-10,13)

____  I choose to reject JESUS and keep my way.

". . .But he that believes not is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten SON of GOD."    (John 3:18b)

"And whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the Lake of Fire."    (Revelation 20:15)

JESUS said, ". . .BEHOLD, NOW is the accepted time; BEHOLD, NOW is the day of salvation."    (2nd.Corinthians 6:2b)  Yes, today IS the day of salvation. No one is promised any more time than the very moment they are in. Receive CHRIST's forgiveness today !

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

" GOD's Plan: Commencement "

 

Jeremiah 10:12 "HE hath made the Earth by HIS power, HE hath established the world by HIS wisdom, and hath stretched out the heavens by HIS discretion."

     The Scriptures are a marvelous record of all GOD presently wants us to know about HIMSELF, ourselves, and HIS plan for the ages. They contain the storyline revealing GOD's intentions and purposes for HIS creation. The LORD has gone on record, telling us how it all began: by HIS very WORD. At HIS command the cosmos, including planet Earth, was formed, and HE filled our planet with HIS creation. In addition to Genesis 1-2, where do we find declarations of GOD's creative acts ? "When I consider THY heavens, the work of THY fingers, the moon and the stars, which THOU has ordained" (Psalm 8:3 pictured at top of post).  "By the WORD of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of HIS mouth" (Psalm 33:6 pictured above). "All things were made by HIM; and without HIM was not any thing made that was made" (John 1:3 pictured below). "For by HIM were all things created, that are in Heaven, and that are in Earth, visible and invisible" (Colossians 1:16). "THOU art worthy, O LORD, to receive glory and honor and power: for THOU has created all things, and for THY pleasure they are and were created" (Revelation 4:11).

     Believing it is GOD WHO commenced everything in this world is vital. Evolutionists have assaulted not just the Bible but also common sense and rational thinking. It is imperative that we firmly stand on the infallible, inerrant, GOD-breathed revelation (2nd.Timothy 3:16-17 pictured below). Trust GOD's WORD with regard to the creation account. Rest assured that the LORD has told us the truth concerning everything recorded in HIS WORD, including how this planet began and how man came into existence. If we can believe the Bible for the redemption of our soul, certainly we can believe its record of life's origins. GDF

Your servant in CHRIST,
Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

" No Greater Love ! "

 

Romans 5:1-11 "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with GOD through our LORD JESUS CHRIST: by WHOM also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of GOD. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: and hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of GOD is shed abroad in our hearts by the HOLY SPIRIT which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time CHRIST died for the ungodly.

For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us. Much more then, being now justified by HIS blood, we shall be saved from wrath through HIM. For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to GOD by the death of HIS SON, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by HIS life. And not only so, but we also joy in GOD through our LORD JESUS CHRIST, by WHOM we have now receive the atonement."

     "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" (John 15:13 pictured above). On January 13th., 1982, Air Florida Flight 90 plunged into the icy waters of the Potomac River. This incident is remarkable because of the heroics of one man. Arland Williams. Seventy-five souls were on that flight, but only five survived. Treading water, six people fought to survive. They struggled with broken arms and legs, and two had collapsed lungs. A rescue helicopter came about fifteen minutes after the crash. They dropped a lifeline to one man who grabbed it and was carried to safety. The helicopter returned for Williams, but he passed the line to a flight attendant who was saved. Again, they returned, and Williams  caught the line but gave it to a severely injured man who was rescued along with two-other women. It was now twenty-nine minutes since the crash had occurred, and Williams's turn came at last. However, he could not be found. He had put everyone else ahead of himself.

     In remembering this incident, how our hearts turn to the self-denying, sacrificial love of our SAVIOR: "For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us" (vv.7-8 pictured at top of post). Some would dare to lay down their life for friends, but CHRIST gave HIS life willingly for HIS enemies (v.10), for the ungodly (v.6), and for vile sinners (v.8). Hymnwriters have pondered the greatness of this sacrifice: "Amazing love, how can it be, that THOU my GOD shouldst die for me ?"  "How can it be ? How can it be ? That GOD should love a soul like me ?" GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide

Used  with  permission.   www.featoday.org

"When the RESTRAINER Is Gone, WATCH OUT !"

 

2nd.Thessalonians 2:1-13 "Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, and by our gathering together unto HIM, that ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the Day of CHRIST is at hand. Let no man deceive you by any means: for that Day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that  man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition: who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called GOD, or that is worshiped; so he as GOD sitteth in the temple of GOD, showing himself that he is GOD. Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things ? And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only HE WHO now letteth will let, until HE be taken out of the way.

And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the LORD shall consume with the SPIRIT of HIS mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of HIS coming: even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause GOD shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be damned who believed not the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. But we are bound to give thanks always to GOD for you, brethren beloved of the LORD, because GOD hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the SPIRIT and belief of the truth:"

Johnstown Flood of 1889

     The Johnstown Flood (1889) was one of the most tragic events in American history, causing 2,209 deaths (almost 700 more than died on the Titanic). The South Fork Dam was the product of poor engineering; it restrained 3.8 billion gallons of water primarily so that rich people could enjoy fishing and boating on Lake Conemaugh. Then it happened. Days of heavy rain caused the dam to fail. The restraint was removed, and the entire lake emptied into a mountain ravine with a force that was able to carry trees and railroad cars. The wall of water was 35 feet high traveling at 40 miles per hour heading for Johnstown about 14 miles away. The people had little warning and little time to evacuate, and, thus, they perished.

     Today the forces of evil are being restrained by GOD HIMSELF WHO dwells in HIS church. Evil is rampant in our day, but not as bad as it could be and not as terrible as it will be. GOD tells us that the Day is coming when the RESTRAINER will be removed and the dam will break: "And now ye know what withholdeth (what restrains or holds back) that he (the man of sin) might be revealed in his time. For the mystery of iniquity (lawlessness) doth already work: only HE (the HOLY SPIRIT) WHO now letteth (restrains) will let (restrain), until HE be taken out of the way" (vv.6-7 pictured at the top of the post). Believers are the salt of the earth. We do not eliminate societal corruption, but we hinder it, and slow it down. When the HOLY SPIRIT - indwelt church is removed by the rapture (the catching away), the forces of lawlessness will be unleashed. Antichrist will be revealed, and woe to the Earth dwellers ! May we be salt in the midst of corruption and light amid great darkness (Matthew 5:13-16 pictured above). GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

" GOD Loves You ! "

 

"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."

~ John 3:16

We are loved.

This great Bible verse reveals four truths from the heart of GOD for all people.

GOD wants us to know that we are loved. The LORD JESUS said, "For GOD so loved the world . . ."  You are part of this world, and GOD loves you. HE gave HIS SON for you, and HE wants you ". . .to know the love of CHRIST. . ." (Ephesians 3:19).

We are of worth.

The LORD also wants us to know that we are of worth. We are so dear to GOD, ". . .that HE gave HIS only begotten SON. . ."

The Bible teaches us that we are all sinners. "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD" (Romans 3:23). And sin must be paid for. "For the wages of sin is death. . ." (Romans 6:23a).

But the Bible also teaches us that ". . .CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures" (1st.Corinthians 15:3). GOD demonstrated HIS love for us and our worth to HIM when HE sent HIS SON to die in our place.

The good news is that the LORD JESUS paid our sin debt in full when HE died on the cross. "For HE hath made HIM to be sin for us. . ." (2nd.Corinthians 5:21). CHRIST loved us and gave HIMSELF for us as payment for our sin.

You may ask, "How can GOD forgive my sin ?" HE can because of what JESUS did. ". . .While we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us" (Romans 5:8).

We can have hope.

GOD wants us to know that we can have hope. HE said ". . .that whosoever believeth in HIM should not perish. . ." Life is fragile, and people are perishing. But CHRIST came ". . .that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly" (John 10:10).

In a world where so many have lost hope, GOD wants us to know that the ". . .LORD JESUS CHRIST. . .is our hope" (1st.Timothy1:1). HE rose from the dead, and HE said, ". . .Because I live, ye shall live also" (John 14:19).

We can have purpose.

GOD wants us to know that we can have purpose in life. HE desires that we ". . .should not perish, but have everlasting life." 

"And this is the promise that HE hath promised us, even eternal life" (1st.John 2:25).

You may ask, "How can I receive GOD's promise of eternal life ?"

Acknowledge that you are a sinner, "for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD" (Romans 3:23).

Believe that the LORD JESUS died for you, for "CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures" (1st.Corinthians 15:3).

Call upon the LORD to save you, "for whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved" (Romans 10:13).

If you would be willing to turn to the LORD in repentance and faith, pray this simple prayer or one like it:

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.

The LORD JESUS said, ". . .I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish. . ." (John 10:28). Everlasting life is ours when we receive CHIRST as our personal SAVIOR.

Now that you're a Christian:

*  Share your new-found faith with your family and friends (Acts 16:31-33)

*  Identify with CHRIST through believer's baptism and become part of a local Bible-believing church (Acts 2:41,47).

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

GULF COAST BAPTIST CHURCH

Pastor Tom Sexton

312 SE 24th. Avenue 

Cape Coral, FL  33990

(239) 574-1000

GulfCoastBaptist@aol.com

www.gulfcoastbaptistchurch.com