" 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

Please do not resent me for sending you this post. I love your soul, and I want to tell you that if you have never been truly born again, you are on a journey to a place where you will burn forever and ever.

     You see, the human race began when GOD created the first man, Adam. Adam was created sinless, yet he was also created with the ability to choose whether he would accept or reject GOD's rule, in other words, free will. GOD commanded Adam not to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil; for in that day that he ate from the tree, he would die. "And the LORD 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) GOD gave Adam just one rule, just one.

     Adam disobeyed GOD's commandment and ate of the tree of knowledge, and on that day, he died spiritually. "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) The Bible states here that because Adam sinned, all people are born with the nature to sin. If you have never been truly born again, you are still spiritually dead toward GOD, just like Adam. If you continue in this condition until death takes you from this world, you will be eternally condemned to the Lake of Fire. "And whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the Lake of Fire." (Revelation 20:15)

     JESUS loves you. HE loved you even before you were born into this world. "But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." (Romans 5:8) GOD's love for you is greater than all human understanding. By sending HIS SON, JESUS, to the Earth to die for sinful man, HE prepared the way of salvation to keep you and me from this Lake of Fire. "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)

     "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 yea 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) JESUS died upon a cross and shed HIS blood so that you could be saved. "But this MAN, after HE had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of GOD;" (Hebrews 10:12) JESUS paid it all ! Salvation is waiting for everyone who will repent (a turning to GOD from your sin) and by faith receive JESUS as your personal LORD and SAVIOR. "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)

     Please listen to GOD's WORD. "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) 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.

     Will you bow your head and call on JESUS to save your soul right now ? The decision is yours. "Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuades me to be a Christian." (Acts 26:28) Almost is not good enough. Almost will send you to a Devil's Hell. Call upon JESUS today to save your soul, before it is too late.

     "BEHOLD, NOW is the accepted time; BEHOLD, NOW is the day of salvation." (2nd.Corinthians 6:2b) JESUS said, "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." Come to JESUS, HE is calling you now !

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"The Believer Will Never Thirst, Die, or Be Lost !"

 

John 4:9-15 "Then saith the woman of Samaira unto HIM, How is it that THOU, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria ? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. JESUS answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of GOD, and WHO it is that saith to thee. Give ME to drink: thou wouldest have asked of HIM, and HE would have given thee living water. The woman saith unto HIM, Sir, THOU hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast THOU that living water ?

Art THOU greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle ? JESUS answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. The woman saith unto HIM, Sir give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw."

     "HE would have given thee living water . . . The water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life . . . He that believeth on ME . . . out of his belly (innermost being) shall flow rivers of living water . . . He that believeth on ME shall never thirst" (vv.10,14; John 7:38; 6:35 pictured above). Water in these verses is symbolic of life. Water is essential for physical life. If we were to stop drinking, we would die. At least sixty percent of the adult body is made of water, and every cell in the body needs it to keep functioning. Experts say a person can only live three or four days without water. Life depends upon it. JESUS told the Samaritan woman that when she drank from the well, she would soon become thirsty and need to drink again (v.13). The body uses water, disposes of it, and daily needs a new supply.

     But, the living water that the LORD JESUS CHRIST provides is different. When a person believes on JESUS for salvation, he immediately receives an eternal supply of water -- a well of water that will never run dry. He will never again thirst (v.14): he will never die (John 8:51 pictured above; John 11:26), he will never be without the gift of GOD, which is eternal life (vv.10,14; Romans 6:23); he will never be without the SPIRIT of GOD, the very ONE WHO causes living water to flow out of the Christian's innermost being (John 7:38-39). What a strong rebuke these verses give to every person who denies the eternal security of the believer ! In order to lose your salvation, the well would have to run dry; the SPIRIT would need to leave; you would have to thirst and drink all over again -- all things which these verses say can never happen ! Praise the LORD for this eternal living water ! GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"This is MY BELOVED SON . . . !"

 

In the Bible, a commandment came forth from GOD. . . "Hear ye HIM !" HE spoke of HIS beloved SON, JESUS. If you are not sure what will happen to you after you die, why don't you read on and see what JESUS said will happen ?

If you reject JESUS, you will be judged one day by HIS WORD. Hear ye HIM ! "And if any man hear MY WORDs, and believe not, I judge him not: For I came not to judge the world, but to save the world. He that rejecteth ME and receiveth not MY WORDs, hath one that judgeth him: the WORD that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day." (Juhn 12:47-48).

If you do not believe in JESUS, you will die in your sins. Hear ye HIM ! "I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: For if ye believe not that I AM HE, ye shall die in your sins." (John 8:24). "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of GOD." (Romans 2:23).

JESUS said you will not get to Heaven without HIM. There is no other way ! Hear ye HIM ! "I AM the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE: no man cometh unto the FATHER, but by ME."  (John 14:6).

If you do not believe on JESUS, you are already condemned to a burning Hell ! Hear ye HIM ! "He that believeth on HIM is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten SON of GOD." (John 3:18).

If you are lost, you need to be saved from the wrath of GOD. Hear ye HIM ! "For the SON of MAN is come to save that which was lost." (Matthew 18:11). "Neither is there salvation in any other: For there is none other name under Heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12).

Those of us who are saved, GOD has commanded that we "Go, ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature." (Mark 16:15).  "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)

"For they being ignorant of GOD's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of GOD." (Romans 10:3) You need GOD's righteousness. Without it, you will go to a Devil's Hell. At this moment, you can receive GOD's righteousness. Hear ye HIM ! "But as many as received HIM, to them gave HE the power to become the sons of GOD, even to them that believe on HIS name." (John 1:12)

If you would be willing to turn to CHRIST in repentance (a turning to GOD from sin) 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.

Pray to JESUS, and ask HIM to come into your heart, to save you, and to forgive you of your sins. "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." (Romans 10:9,13).

The words JESUS spoke stand sure - today, tomorrow and forever ! Hear ye HIM ! "Heaven and Earth shall pass away: but MY WORDs shall not pass away." (Matthew 24:35).  "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment." (Hebrews 9:27).  Do you realize that the first half of this verse is proved as a fact each time someone dies ? It is also a fact that one day, you too will die, and you can also be sure that you will be judged by the WORD JESUS spoke ! What is your choice ?

____ I CHOOSE TO REJECT JESUS. . .  Hear ye HIM !  "But whosoever shall deny ME before men, him will I also deny before MY FATHER which is in Heaven." (Matthew 10:33). "And he that believeth not the SON shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abideth on him." (John 3:36).

____ I CHOOSE TO ACCEPT JESUS AS MY SAVIOR. . .  Hear ye HIM ! "And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of MY hand." (John 10:28) "He that hath the SON hath life, and he that hath not the SON of GOD hath not life." (1st.John 5:12).

The WORD of GOD says, "BEHOLD, NOW is the accepted time; BEHOLD, NOW is the day of salvation." (2nd.Corinthians 6:2b). JESUS said, "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." (John 5:24).  Come to JESUS and HEAR ye HIM !

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

" GOD Will Do It ! "

 

Isaiah 9:6-7 " For unto us a CHILD is born, unto us a SON is given: and the government shall be upon HIS shoulder: and HIS name shall be called WONDERFUL, COUNSELOR, The MIGHTY GOD, The EVERLASTING FATHER, The PRINCE of PEACE. Of the increase of HIS government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon HIS kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this."

     Books have been written that deal exclusively with the names attributed to the LORD JESUS CHRIST in the WORD of GOD. What a tremendous blessing these studies are as we increase our understanding of the LORD's glory, HIS divine attributes, and HIS purpose. Today's text is a case in point. HE is indeed "WONDERFUL" in every way, and HE is certainly the believer's exalted "COUNSELOR" as well (v.6 pictured above). These names in our text speak of the greatness of our LORD from eternity past to HIS transcendent future glory in the Millennial Kingdom. We also see in this passage another prophecy concerning the birth of JESUS CHRIST -- written more than 700 years before HE was born. Just as the first prophecy concerning HIS incarnation literally came to pass, so too will the 1000-year reign over the earthly kingdom that HE has covenanted to Israel, happen.

     Notice the dispensational division in the first part of verse six separating CHRIST's prophesied birth and the promised kingdom that HE will establish at HIS second advent (not the Rapture). We in the church age are between those two events. It is important that we distinguish between the prophecies that relate to Israel and those that are specifically for the church. The kingdom CHRIST shall usher in world peace and a righteous reign in which HE will rule on David's throne in Jerusalem. The church will not, nor is it called to, "bring in the kingdom." Kingdom-building is not the church's mission, and no kingdom will exist until CHRIST's return (Zechariah Chapter 14). GOD will absolutely bring to pass all that HE has promised. "The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this" (v.7 posted at top of post). MHR

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: The Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

" L O S T ! "

 

LOST   LOST   LOST   

LOST. To a three-year-old, being lost is not being able to see mother -- even though she is in the next aisle at the grocery store.

LOST. To the ten-year-old, being lost is getting into the woods and not knowing the way out.

LOST. To the traveler, being lost is making a wrong turn somewhere so that he will never reach his destination unless he gets help.

     Scramble all these pictures and we see ourselves. All mankind is lost. We are in the woods and cannot find our way out. But we notice that the signs and sights on the road we are traveling are not the ones we want. The choices we made previously are not bringing us to our goal.

     Simply stated, we can't find our FATHER; we don't know the way home.

And the solutions are always the same:

1. Recognize that we are lost.

2. Check the compass, road map or GPS.

3. Listen for FATHER's call. 

4. Ask advice. 

5. Call for help !

     The three-year-old finds her mother by calling for her or hearing her call. The ten-year-old can find his way home if he has a compass or can see the sun. The traveler checks his map, or GPS, or asks advice -- but only after he realizes that he is LOST.

    Sad to say, most people today do not know that they are lost. They go merrily on their way to destruction. But the Bible says, "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way." (Isaiah 53:6).

     Yes, we have gone astray, but the good news is that the LORD is "not willing that any should perish," (2nd.Peter 3:9a). And so, as a loving FATHER, GOD is calling to you. Right now, reading this post is HIS call.

     How can you find your way back ? The Bible is the compass and road map that points the way to life. Asking advice from other Christians is also a wise thing to do.

     In brief, the Bible tells us that we rebelled against GOD and separated ourselves from HIM. All our efforts of good works, religious rites like water baptism, cannot save us. So, GOD sent HIS only begotten SON, JESUS CHRIST, to become man. (And so, HE is called SON of MAN) HE died for us to pay for our sins in full. "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). 

     Understanding that we are sinners and are unable to do anything to save ourselves; we must come to JESUS by faith, believing that HE has paid for our sins in full. "For the SON of MAN is come to seek and to save that which was lost." (Luke 19:10).

     In Matthew 18 and Luke 15 we read the beautiful story of how JESUS, the GOOD SHEPHERD, looks for one lost sheep. YOU are that lost sheep. When you come to JESUS, HE rejoices and says to others, "Rejoice with ME; for I have found MY sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in Heaven over one sinner that repenteth." (Luke 15:6-7) To repent means a turning, a changing of direction from something to something. When a person repents, they are turning to GOD from their sin.

     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.

     You are very valuable in GOD's sight. In fact, HE gave HIS life for HIS lost sheep even while they were HIS enemies. HE does not want any of them to be lost ! Come to HIM today ! The LORD JESUS said, ". . .I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish..." (John 10:28a) Everlasting life is ours when we receive CHRIST as our personal LORD and SAVIOR. Do it today, tomorrow may be too late !

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

" COMMITMENT "

Philippians 1:19-21 "For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the SPIRIT of JESUS CHRIST, according to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also CHRIST shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is CHRIST, and to die is gain."

 A FERVENT COMMITMENT

     As Christians, we must understand that our very reason for existence is to glorify our LORD. JESUS paid the ultimate sacrifice for us -- HE suffered and died on Calvary's cross to pay for our sins although we did not deserve it nor even desire it. When we believe the Gospel, trusting fully in the sufficient work of JESUS for our salvation, we entered into the body of CHRIST, and we now possess mercy and grace greater than we could possibly comprehend ! Should we not, therefore, spend our life in service to the ONE WHO gave so great a sacrifice and WHO blesses us so richly every day ? The Apostle Paul lived each day with the realization that JESUS paid a tremendous price for him; thus, he pledged himself to glorifying his SAVIOR. Verse twenty reveals the full extent of Paul's commitment to magnify the LORD in every aspect of his life.

     After reading our text, did you notice the passion and fervency in Paul's desire to dedicate his life to the glory and service of GOD ? He defined this longing as his "earnest expectation and . . .hope" (v.20 pictured below). Paul truly wanted to do GOD's will as he ministered to believers and as he preached the Gospel to the lost. Why did he desire this ? It was because Paul loved the LORD and enjoyed close fellowship with HIM. A commitment to magnify GOD stems from a knowledge of the LORD and HIS WORD. We must consider whether or not we have this same earnest desire. If not, then perhaps we are neglecting to spend enough time getting to know our SAVIOR; maybe we are failing to grasp HIS love for us or are overlooking HIS many blessings. Let us purpose to draw closer to GOD and ardently live for the ONE WHO paid so great a price for us.

A SERIOUS COMMITMENT

     The Apostle Paul fervently and passionately committed himself to glorifying GOD through his ministry. But passion and fervency were not an end in themselves. Many people feel strongly about countless different things, yet their feelings do not always translate into action. Paul, on the other hand, was serious about his commitment. In verse twenty he expressed his resolute desire: "that in nothing I shall be ashamed." Notice the word "nothing." The Apostle did not want anything to exist in his ministry that would cause him to bring reproach upon the name of JESUS CHRIST, nor did he want something in his life that would lead to the LORD's disapproval at the Judgment Seat of CHRIST. In order to fulfill his commitment, the Apostle Paul needed to completely yield himself to the LORD, which he certainly did. He firmly and genuinely committed his life to accomplishing GOD's will, thereby bringing glory to his SAVIOR.

     Are we serious about our relationship with the LORD ? Do we claim to desire GOD's will or give the impression to others that the LORD occupies the foremost place in our heart when, in reality, we care little about pleasing HIM or giving HIM the priority in our life ? Such should never be the case. GOD's WORD reminds us that "no man can serve two masters" (Matthew 6:24). Halfhearted loyalty does not exist -- either we are dedicated to serving and glorifying GOD, or we are devoted to serving and glorifying something or someone else. Where do you stand ? As believers, we must be serious in our commitment to do everything for the honor and glory of GOD (1st.Corinthians 10:31). Our prayer ought to be like the Apostle Paul's: "that in nothing I shall be ashamed" (v.20).

A COMMITMENT TO BOLDNESS

     The Apostle Paul passionately and seriously dedicated himself to accomplishing GOD's will and magnifying the LORD in every area of his life. While such a commitment is certainly noble and GOD-honoring, it is by no means easy on the flesh. Paul's beliefs and actions were different from the unbelieving pagan world around him, and because he preached the Gospel to the lost and forthrightly ministered to other believers, he certainly faced trials and persecution from the world. Yet the Apostle refused to allow the fear of man to dictate his ministry. The very fact that Paul penned this letter to the church of Philippi from prison reveals his devotion to boldly ministering for his LORD regardless of the cost. In verse twenty, the apostle told the Philippian saints that he committed himself to honoring GOD "with all boldness."

     The days in which we live are likewise marked by paganism and intolerance toward biblical Christianity. Sadly, many believers are dishonoring the LORD because they have let the fear of man alter their direction and service for GOD. Rather than boldly proclaiming, "Thus saith the LORD," they are more concerned about what others think of them; consequently, they refuse to live a life that is different from the world. Rather than seeking the approval of GOD, they are striving to gain the approbation of other men or ministries. As fundamentalists, we must lovingly but resolutely speak the truth; in addition, we must bravely reject worldliness and compromise. Paul surrendered himself to courageously preaching the Gospel, ministering to others, and honoring CHRIST in his life. Are we committed to this same boldness in our life and ministry ?

A COMMITMENT TO CONSISTENCY

     Paul passionately and seriously committed himself to magnifying the LORD as he lived and ministered according to GOD's will. Furthermore, he purposed to boldly honor his SAVIOR regardless of what other men thought or said. Certainly, his life was not easy on the flesh, but the LORD gave Paul many blessings as well. Regardless of whether the Apostle faced times of abundance or hardship (Philippians 4:11-13 pictured above), he determined to glorify his GOD by faithfully serving HIM at all times. In verse twenty of our text, he pledged that "as always, so now also CHRIST shall be magnified." To the Apostle Paul, commitment was not merely a word -- it was a lifestyle. He completely devoted his life to glorifying CHRIST in the good times as well as the bad.

     The WORD of GOD constantly urges us to remain consistent and diligent in our walk with the LORD. First Corinthians 15:58 commands us to be "steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the LORD." Notice also Paul's confident exhortation to the Thessalonian believers that they "both do and will do the things which we command you" (2nd.Thessalonians 3:4). The value of a consistent walk and witness cannot be overemphasized. We must never live for GOD one day and then live for self or for someone else the next; to do so only hinders our relationship with GOD and ruins our testimony before the world. Can we honestly say that JESUS CHRIST is magnified in our life and ministry at all times, or must we admit that we only strive to please HIM at certain times -- perhaps when all seems to be going well ? We must heed the example of Paul, who committed himself to living diligently and consistently for his LORD.

A PHYSICAL COMMITMENT

     Commitment begins in the heart, but ultimately, we must carry it out through physical effort. Paul fervently and seriously devoted himself to boldly and consistently magnifying GOD by yielding to HIS will and obediently serving HIM in every aspect of life and ministry. Yet the Apostle knew that this inward dedication required outward exertion. In verse twenty, Paul says he was committed to magnifying CHRIST "in my body"; in Romans 6:12-13 he elaborates on what this means: "Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto GOD, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto GOD." To magnify the LORD through one's body means to subject every body part to the will of the LORD. You have a choice to make every single day !

     Sadly, we sometimes deceive ourselves into thinking that we can live like the world and still honor and glorify GOD because we have inwardly "committed" to doing HIS will. We assume that as long as our motives are pure, and our sincerity is genuine then GOD will somehow approve of our conformity to the world. But such thinking reveals a serious lack of biblical knowledge and discernment. GOD has called us to be holy and set apart from worldliness, and if we want to do HIS will, we must live transformed lives that are different from the unsaved (Romans 12:1-2 pictured above; 1st.Peter 1:14-16). We must be dedicated to maintaining a lifestyle that is consistent with GOD's will as revealed in HIS WORD. Are we faithfully glorifying the LORD JESUS CHRIST in our body each day ?

A FEARLESS COMMITMENT

     Despite the fact that the Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the Philippian church while he was under arrest, the reader does not sense any degree of hopelessness or despair on the part of the Apostle. Rather, Paul exudes a confidence that can emanate only from one who is placing his complete trust in the omnipotent CREATOR. In verse twenty, Paul tells the Philippians he is committed to magnifying GOD in his body "whether it be by life, or by death." He continues, "For me to live is CHRIST, and to die is gain" (v.21). Paul understood that GOD would accomplish HIS will in his life whether he lived or died. He knew the Philippian believers were praying for him, and he completely yielded himself to the control of the HOLY SPIRIT (v.19). Paul was not afraid of life or of death. He realized that each had its benefits (Philippians 1:23-24 pictured above), and he also accepted that GOD had a plan for his life which transcended his own preferences.

     Today, we must take the time to consider whether we are truly committed to magnifying the LORD JESUS CHRIST through our life and ministry. In Romans 12:1, the Apostle tells us that complete yieldedness to GOD is our "reasonable service." Our SAVIOR has done so much for us that the very least we can do is give HIM our life to use as HE sees fit. If we are passionately and seriously dedicated to being the kind of faithful servants GOD wants us to be, then we will demonstrate boldness, consistency, yieldedness, and fearlessness as we share the Gospel with the lost and minister to fellow believers. Paul was certainly a good example of one who fully yielded himself to committed, faithful, GOD-honoring Christian service. Can this be said of us ? MDC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

 

"How GOD Speaks to HIS Own"

 

Isaiah 8:19-22 "And when they shall say unto you, Seek unto them that have familiar spirits, and unto wizards that peep, and that mutter: should not a people seek unto their GOD ? for the living to the dead ? To the Law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this WORD, it is because there is no light in them. And they shall pass through it, hardly bestead and hungry: and it shall come to pass, that when they shall be hungry, they shall fret themselves, and curse their King and their GOD, and look upward. And they shall look unto the Earth; and behold trouble and darkness, dimness of anguish; and they shall be driven to darkness."

     Countless numbers of people have turned away from the Bible and become infatuated with the new age movement and its emphasis on occultic practices. Additionally, the "Third Wave" teaching of the charismatic movement have captivated the imaginations of many Pentecostals and have led them in an unbiblical attempt to contact the spirit world. "Deliverance ministries" draw upon extrabiblical sources for information on how to supposedly combat evil. Even those who claim to believe the Bible find themselves empathizing with some of these teachings and, in so doing, align themselves with what our text forbids: seeking after familiar spirits and wizards (v.19 pictured above). Alleged contact with angels and spirit guides, purported messages from the dead, and a turning to astrologers, soothsayers, sorcerers, and clairvoyants for guidance have grown by leaps and bounds. Especially deceptive are those charismatics who take advantage of ones who are untaught in the WORD of GOD by leading them to believe that their unscriptural practices are actually visible manifestations of the HOLY SPIRIT.

     We are not to look for direction from those who have "familiar spirits" (v.19). The LORD instructs us to examine and judge all teachings and teachers solely by HIS HOLY WORD. GOD says "no light" is in any person who comes up with a message that is contrary to HIS WORD (v.20 pictured above). Therefore, people who are searching for "more light" by embracing the "good in all religions" are deceiving themselves and others. Those who seek guidance from extrabiblical revelations can expect confusion. They walk in darkness, not light; they follow Satan, not the LORD. Beware of all such danger ! MHR

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

 

"Safeguard Against Sin"

 

Psalm 119:9-16 "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way ? by taking heed thereto according to THY WORD. With my whole heart have I sought THEE: O let me not wander from THY commandments. THY WORD have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Blessed art THOU O LORD: teach me THY statutes. With my lips have I declared all the judgments of THY mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of THY testimonies, as much as in all riches. I will meditate in THY precepts, and have respect unto THY ways. I will delight myself in THY statutes: I will not forget THY WORD."

     The individual who thinks he can live the life that GOD desires for him without expending any effort is a fool (vv.9-10,14). We must "exercise [ourselves] . . . unto godliness (1st.Timothy 4:7 pictured below), and this necessarily includes being "nourished up in the WORD's of faith and of good doctrine" (1st.Timothy 4:6 pictured above). If we neglect the teaching of GOD's WORD, then we will surely wander out of the place of HIS divine blessing. If, on the other hand, we give heed to the WORD of GOD, humbly receiving by faith HIS promised cleansing from sin, and with a "whole heart" (v.10) trust the LORD to accomplish in us what HE has promised, then no satanic oppression will defeat us. GOD will keep us safe within the confines of HIS many great and precious promises.

     A teachable spirit guards against sin (vv.11-12,15-16). Should we ever come to the place where we feel we have all the answers or think that a humble consideration of simple Bible truths is no longer necessary, then we are ready for a fall. We must rejoice in, meditate in, delight in, and hide in our heart the WORD if we are to be delivered from '[sinning] against THEE" (v.11). This entails more than merely committing biblical texts to memory -- it is keeping them in the heart. This is not just a mental exercise; it is allowing GOD's WORD to saturate and motivate our inner man.

     Another deterrent against Satan's devices is to constantly declare GOD's testimonies to others (v.13). A witness for the LORD must stay sharp, for the enemy of our faith is resolute in his attempt to silence truth. But GOD's hand of blessing and protection is upon those ambassadors who determine to make HIM known (Matthew 28:19-20 pictured above). DWC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"Painful Omniscience"

 

Isaiah 53:1-12 "Who hath believed our report ? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed ? For HE shall grow up before HIM as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: HE hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see HIM, there is no beauty that we should desire HIM. HE is despised and rejected of men; a MAN of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from HIM; HE was despised, and we esteemed HIM not. Surely HE hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem HIM stricken, smitten of GOD, and afflicted. 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. 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.

HE was oppressed, and HE was afflicted, yet HE opened not HIS mouth: HE is brought as a LAMB to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so HE openeth not HIS mouth. HE was taken from prison and from judgment; and who shall declare HIS generation ? for HE was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of MY people was HE stricken. And HE made HIS grave with the wicked, and with the rich in HIS death; because HE had done no violence, neither was any deceit in HIS mouth. Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise HIM; HE hath put HIM to grief: when THOU shalt make HIS soul an offering for sin, HE shall see HIS seed, HE shall prolong HIS days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in HIS hand. HE shall see of the travail of HIS soul, and shall be satisfied; by HIS knowledge shall MY righteous SERVANT justify many; for HE shall bear their iniquities. Therefore will I divide HIM a portion with the great, and HE shall divide the spoil with the strong; because HE hath poured out HIS soul unto death: and HE was numbered with the transgressors; and HE bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors."

     We are often grateful that our loving GOD did not reveal beforehand a devastating event in our life. HE mercifully keeps us from knowing what will occur in the next hour, day, month, or year. If we knew of a tragic end for a precious baby, a loved one, or even ourselves, each day could be overshadowed with despair. Even a possible terminal diagnosis can bring intense distress. Just as a wise parent may not tell his child about an upcoming difficulty, GOD at times spares us from what would be overwhelming to us and desires that we simply trust and enjoy HIM in every moment.

     How poignant it is to think of our SAVIOR's omniscience. Certainly, one of the most humanly agonizing aspects of HIS earthly life was knowing:

HE understood the Old Testament Scriptures that applied to HIS sufferings and death.

HE "knew what was in man" in John 2:25 and 6:64

HE perceived Judas' approaching betrayal in Luke 22:21-22.

HE knew of Peter's coming denials in Luke 22:34

HE knew of the disciple's abandonment in Matthew 26:31

HE knew about the inevitable disgrace and agony of the cross in Matthew 16:21.

HE even had to live among the terrible sins that HE would later bear upon the cross. How our hearts faint as we try to comprehend what HE suffered because of HIS love for us and HIS devotion to the FATHER's will.

HE knew what was before HIM and could say, "For the things concerning ME have an end" in Luke 22:37

HE endured the cross and, realizing the joy that set before HIM, disregarded the shame in Hebrews 12:2 (pictured above).

May we follow in HIS steps as we trust GOD's will and sufficiency for us and, in "our light affliction" (2nd.Corinthains 4:17), bow in worship before our SAVIOR, knowing that HIS chosen path for us is perfect (Psalm 18:30). GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"Study Hard for WHOSE Approval ?"

2nd.Timothy 2:14-19 "Of those things put them in remembrance, charging them before the LORD that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. Study to show thyself approved unto GOD, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the WORD of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker (cancer): of whom is Hymeneus and Philetus: who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. Nevertheless the foundation of GOD standeth sure, having this seal. The LORD knoweth them that are HIS. And, let everyone that nameth the name of CHRIST depart from iniquity (sin)."

     Throughout the letters of 1 and 2 Timothy, Paul admonishes his son in the faith, Timothy, to be a man of GOD who honors and glorifies the LORD above all. He wants Timothy to be a person of integrity whom people can follow -- not as some cult leader but as one who uprightly, with a faith that is absolutely pure from distortion, dilution, or doctrinal defection. Every chapter in these two wonderful letters to Timothy as well as in the epistle to Titus spells out for pastors and for those who are under their direction something important to implement into their daily lives.

     It is only through the Scriptures that the man of GOD can discern what to do and how to behave. One of the characteristics every pastor should manifest is that he is to be diligent in the WORD; put simply, it is his duty to carefully delve into the Bible when he prepares to feed GOD's people. Within the word "study" (v.15 pictured at top of post) is the ideal of persistent zeal. Correctly understanding the Scriptures is something the LORD expects the pastor to pursue with due diligence; he is to stick with it, exercising the mental capacities he has been given by GOD. Today, it seems that too many pastors have other priorities for their time. While some of their obligations may indeed be important, often church leaders are neglecting what it takes to present substantial spiritual meals for the body of CHRIST when they gather together corporately to hear the teaching of GOD's WORD. Pastor, put forth the proper effort when you preach the WORD; fellow believer, enable your pastor to have adequate time to study so that your church can "grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST" (2nd. Peter 3:18 pictured above).

     It is fascinating to consider the reasons people give when asked what motivates them to do a particular service, activity, or job. Some state that they are striving to improve the lives of people in economically disadvantaged regions of the world. Others claim their desire is to leave the planet a better place for their children. Many admit that they are living for power, prestige, or prosperity. The list is endless. 

     What, then, should drive a pastor -- or any other believer -- to live according to the teachings of Scripture ? Every child of GOD should walk in such a way that will meet with the LORD's commendation (v.15 pictured above). It is imperative to understand that GOD approves certain things but does not tolerate other things. How can we determine what HE accepts and what HE rejects ? Again, we must return to the beginning of verse fifteen where we find the word "study." Pastors, Sunday school teachers, or any other church leaders must communicate only that which meets with GOD's approval, for HE cares about the accuracy of the message given by those who articulate HIS WORD to others.

     The word "approved" (v.15) means that after something has been tested or examined, it is determined to be acceptable, having met specific requirements or expectations. In this verse, those who are "approved" have fulfilled what GOD has intended for them. Romans 14:18, 16:10, both pictured above, and other passages use this word in the same way. In everything we do throughout the day, we must remember that our purpose is to glorify the LORD. Do our thoughts and deeds meet HIS expectations for HIS followers ? Let us live in such a way that we "may please HIM" (v.4) every moment of every day.

     The reason for diligent, persistent, fervent labor in the study of GOD's WORD is not so the pastor or layperson can merely answer some Bible trivia questions or respond to every question that he is asked. It is not simply so he can attain good grades or academic awards while attending Bible college or seminary. And it certainly is not so he can impress intellectuals with his knowledge of what is found in Scripture, which is insignificant or worthless anyway as far as this world system is concerned. Rather, the ultimate motivation for the attentive, fervent study of the WORD of Truth is so that the child of GOD can gain the LORD's approval of his life and ministry.

     How does any believer know that he or she has met with GOD's approbation (approval) ? The LORD does not sit us down in a formal classroom and give us written tests in order to ascertain our knowledge of HIS WORD. Rather, the approval of GOD is determined by how a person handles the Scriptures, especially amid temptations and influences to compromise and misapply what the WORD teaches. Do we consistently interpret what the text actually says, or do we make it mean something that fits our own personal agenda ?

     One example of a biblical text that is often mishandled is Proverbs 22:28; 23:10, which speaks of not moving ancient boundaries. This command is about not stealing another's property and has nothing to do with changing one's principles or ministry touchstones. Plenty of texts do, indeed, teach the continuation of godly standards, but attempting to use these verses in Proverbs to make this point is not a valid interpretation of Scripture. Only the proper handling of GOD's WORD will meet with HIS approval. GDF

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright,  FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation