"Getting a Grip on the Bible"

 

Written by Dr. Tom Sexton

Deuteronomy 6:6-7, "And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down and when thou risest up."

Every child of GOD should have a working knowledge of the Bible.

Why Do We Need a Grip on the Bible ?

The Bible says in Daniel 11:32b, "The people that do know their GOD shall be strong and do exploits." Compare this verse with Hosea 4:6a, "MY people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. . ." So why do we need a grip on the Bible ?

For assurance of our salvation. The Bible says in II Timothy 3:15, "And that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in CHRIST JESUS."

To keep our heart and life clean. The question is, "Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way ? by taking heed thereto according to THY WORD." (Psalm 119:9). As we spend time in the Bible, GOD's WORD will search our hearts.

To have direction for our life. Psalm 119:105, "THY WORD is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." GOD has a path for every life. GOD's WORD will show us the path. ". . .HE marketh all my paths." (Job 33:11b).

To make right decisions in our life. Psalm 119:95b, ". . .I will consider THY testimonies." We should consider GOD's WORD before making life changing decisions. These are just a few reasons why we need to know GOD's WORD. What we do with the Bible will determine what the LORD does with us.

How Can We Get a Grip on the Bible ?

II Timothy 2:15, "Study to shew thyself approved unto GOD, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the WORD of truth." There are five methods by which we can get a firm grip on GOD's WORD.

HEAR It:

Romans 10:17, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the WORD of GOD." We hear the WORD of GOD as it is preached and taught. There is a blessing for hearing the WORD. "Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the WORDs of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand." (Revelation 1:3). We forget 90% of what we hear. We encourage every Christian to take notes when the Bible is being taught. We will retain more of what we write than what we only hear.

READ It:

Revelation 1:3, "Blessed is he that readeth. . ."  I Timothy 4:13, "Till I come, give attendance to reading." We should have a schedule to read the WORD of GOD. As we read, GOD speaks to our hearts. We should mark verses that speak to us or verses that help us. We remember more of what we read than what we hear.

STUDY It:

II Timothy 2:15, "Study to shew thyself approved unto GOD, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the WORD of truth." When we study the Bible, we are searching GOD's WORD. Acts 17:11, "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the WORD with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so." When studying the Bible,we can study people, events, subjects, promises, doctrines, and the list could go one. The more methods we use to study the Bible the more we glean from it.

MEMORIZE It:

Psalm 119:11, "THY WORD have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against THEE." As we put the WORD of GOD to memory, we are hiding it in our hearts. Make a list of verses you want to put to memory and start working on memorizing them.

MEDITATE On It:

Joshua 1:8, "This Book of the Law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success." This is the most powerful method of getting a grip on GOD's WORD. GOD promises success to those who meditate on HIS WORD, also see Psalm 1:1-6. It is while we meditate on the WORD that the HOLY SPIRIT teaches us the truth of GOD's WORD.

I John 2:27, "But the anointing which ye have received of HIM abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in HIM." This truly is the most powerful of all the methods of getting a grip on the Bible. This is when GOD opens our hearts and minds of understanding to HIS WORD.

The LORD can bring to remembrance what we have hid in our hearts. The Bible says, "But the COMFORTER, which is the HOLY GHOST, WHOM the FATHER will send in MY name, HE shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you." (John 14:26). GOD said when HIS people could not remember that, ". . .HE remembered for them. . ." (Psalm 106:45).

When we pray for people who have hid the WORD of GOD in their hearts, the HOLY SPIRIT can awaken the verses that ". . .liveth and abideth for ever. . ." (I Peter 1:23), the verses that are ". . . a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12).

Below is a bit of imagery to represent how hard it is to get a grip on the Bible with only one or two of the above methods of study:

1.  The little finger represents hearing GOD's WORD. If all we do is hear the WORD, we will not be able to hold the WORD (Bible).

2.  The ring finger represents reading GOD's WORD. We can hold the WORD better with two fingers but still will not have much of a grip.

3.  The middle finger represents studying GOD's WORD. We get a better grip when we include this method, but it does not take much to pull the Bible out of our hand.

4.  The index finger (the trigger finger) represents memorizing the WORD of GOD. This method gives us more of a grip, but we still cannot hold onto it.

5.  The thumb represents meditating on GOD's WORD. This method strengthens all the others, and we have a good grip on GOD's WORD when we use them all !

So let us follow through with all of the wonderful methods of Bible Study and we will have a good grip on GOD's WORD.

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

WordToTheWorld@aol.com      www.FiveStarChristianMinistries.com

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"Do We Have What It Takes ?"

 

By Dr. Tom Sexton

"Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established: And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches."  Proverbs 24:3-4.

Do we have what it takes to make a difference in our world today ?

One thing is always the same, and that is GOD uses HIS people to carry on HIS work. Down through the centuries we read about men and women who had what it took to impact their world for the cause of CHRIST.

My beloved pastor, Dr. Lee Roberson, said, "Everything rises and falls on leadership." One of the great truths I learned from Dr. Roberson was to believe every person we meet can have a part in what the LORD JESUS has given us to do.

We must find some way for people to invest their lives in the LORD's work. Think of a target. every church member is not a bullseye Christian, but every child of GOD can, at some level, have a part in GOD's plan for the ages.

We need Christians who have "understanding of the times, to know what" GOD's people ought to do," 1st.Chronicles 12:32. Will GOD find, among us believers, those who have what it takes to make a difference in our world ? What do we need ? These three powerful words, in our text, help us to know what GOD is looking for: "Through wisdom. . .understanding. . .and knowledge shall the chambers be filled. . ."

"Knowledge"

"And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches." Proverbs 24:4

First, we need to know GOD. Paul said, "That I may know HIM, and the power of HIS resurrection," Philippians 3:10. Do you know the LORD JESUS as your personal "SAVIOR" ? This is where we all begin. Nail down your salvation. Remove all doubt.

Second, we need to know GOD's WORD. The Bible says, "MY people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" Hosea 4:6. We need to have a firm grip on GOD's WORD. We need to have HIS WORD in our heart. We need to get direction from GOD and HIS WORD.

Third, we need to know the challenges we are facing. The Bible says, "the children of Issachar, . . .which were men that had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do; . . ." 1st.Chronicles 12:32.

GOD is looking for believers who know what is going on. HE wants us to have the big picture, to know all the facts. "Knowledge" is knowing. Sadly, we know very little about our nation. For example:

Do we know how many different nations are represented in our public schools and Universities ? Do we know how many young people are enrolled in our public schools ? Do we know how many babies we have lost through abortion ? How can we make a difference if we do not know what is different in the world around us ?

"Wisdom"

"Through wisdom is an house builded;" Proverbs 24:3

"Wisdom" is the ability to work with people who have "knowledge." I used to think that what believers needed were people skills to work with people, but now I know that "people skills" is not in the Bible. GOD's people need "wisdom."

One of the things GOD tells us about Moses is, "Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds." Acts 7:22. In other words, he knew how to work with people, all people. 

I believe that GOD has put in people every gift HE has for humanity. We who know GOD must help get the right person doing the one thing GOD has for them. And that, my Friend, takes "wisdom." "Wisdom" is the ability to find the people with "knowledge" and help them to do with their lives what GOD has put them here to accomplish.

The good news is, "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of GOD." James 1:5

"Understanding"

"by understanding it is established:" Proverbs 24:3

The reason little is accomplished or "established" for GOD in this world is because very few believers have "understanding." "Understanding" is seeing the big picture of what GOD is doing and putting together all the resources to accomplish it.

"Knowledge" is not enough. You must know JESUS and HIS WORD. "Wisdom" is not enough. We must put "knowledge" to work. Believers who have "understanding" of the times we live in, and "knowledge" of what needs done, will be given the "wisdom" to work with people.

"Understanding" is the most important because it lets us see what we, with CHRIST, are building.

Moses was on a mission from GOD to lead the children of Israel out of Egypt into the promised land. GOD gave Moses and incredibly special gift. HE gave him, "Bezaleel" to help him.

The Bible says, "And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, . .I have called by name Bezaleel. . .And I have filled him with the SPIRIT of GOD, in wisdom . . . understanding, and in knowledge" Exodus 31:1-3.

GOD gave Moses a gift for the work he was to accomplish. GOD goes on to say that Bezaleel would teach others to "make all that I have commanded thee;" Exodus 31:6. (Read Exodus 38:22).

No wonder the Apostle Paul prayed for the church at Ephesus, "That the GOD of our LORD JESUS CHRIST, the FATHER of glory, may give unto you the SPIRIT of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of HIM: That the eyes of your understanding being enlightened: that ye may know what is the hope of HIS calling, and what the riches of the glory of HIS inheritance in the saints," Ephesians 1:17-18.

We need "knowledge, wisdom, and understanding" to have what it takes to do the work of the LORD. Do you have what it takes ?

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

WordToTheWorld@aol.com

www.FiveStarChristianMinistries.com

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"HEAVEN - GOD's Gift to Believer's"

 

JESUS said, "I go and prepare a place for you. . .that where I AM, there ye may be also." (John 14:3).

The longer people live, the more they think about Heaven. Untold numbers of songs and poems have been written about that beautiful place.

Heaven is a place with beauty beyond our dreams. The Bible says, "Eye hath not seen nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which GOD hath prepared for them that love HIM." (1st.Corinthians 2:9).

Heaven is a glorious city with streets of "gold...walls of jasper, and gates of pearl..."  (Revelation 21:18,21).

Heaven is a real place, and GOD wants everyone to go there. Sadly, many will never go to Heaven because they have never come to CHRIST for salvation.

JESUS is the ONLY Door to Heaven.

JESUS said, "I AM the door; by ME if any man enter in, he shall be saved." (John 10:9). JESUS died for our sins and paid our sin debt in full. JESUS rose from the grave. HE said, "Because I live ye shall live also." (John 10:7).

JESUS said that believers "never die." Their body dies but believers have everlasting life, they don't die. They close their eyes in death and open them in Heaven.

In death Christians are "absent from the body, and. . .present with the LORD." (2nd.Corinthians 5:8). Everyone is going to live forever somewhere, one day we will see it's true. Is Heaven going to be your eternal home when you die ?

YOU can go to Heaven.

Acknowledge you are a sinner.

The Bible says, "As it is written, There is NONE righteous, no, not one. . .For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" (Romans 3:10,23).

Believe CHRIST died for you.

The Bible says, "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD. . .GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." (Romans 6:23; 5:8).

Call upon HIM to save you.

The Bible 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 whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Romans 10:9,13).

If you would be willing to turn to GOD in repentance and faith pray this prayer:

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 and help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

GULF COAST BAPTIST CHURCH

312 SE 24th. Avenue

Cape Coral, FL  33990

(239) 574-1000

GulfCoastBaptis@aol.com

www.gulfcoastbaptistchurch.com

H E A V E N

By Tom Sexton

There are no shadows

In death with JESUS.

There are no valleys

We must walk through.

Death is only a doorway, 

And all of Heaven awaits you.

Our vision on earth is limited

We see only into the blue,

But in death our vision is endless

All of Glory comes into view.

Death takes hold of the body,

And our race on earth is through.

The battle for us is over. 

With open arms HE welcomes you.

So, fear not the end of life's journey.

Believe what GOD says is true.

Death has been defeated !

Heaven is HIS gift to you.

Printed in memory of Pastor Tim Hawkins

WordToTheWorld@aol.com

www.FiveStarChristianMinistries.com

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"Tell It To JESUS ! "

 

"Casting all your care upon HIM;

for HE careth for you." 1st.Peter 5:7

"Trust in HIM at all times. . .

pour out your heart before HIM:

JESUS is a refuge for us."  Psalm 62:8

GOD loves you. JESUS said, "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

JESUS Said We Are Loved.

JESUS said, "For GOD so loved the world. . ." You are a 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.

JESUS Said We Are of Worth.

JESUS 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. Our sin must be paid for. "For the wages of sin is death. . ." Romans 6:23.

JESUS "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. 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.

JESUS Said We Can Have Hope.

GOD wants us to know that we can have hope. JESUS said, ". . .that whosoever believeth in HIM should not perish. . ."

Life is fragile, and people are perishing. JESUS said I 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. HE rose from the dead, and HE said, ". . .Because I live, ye shall live also." John 14:19.

JESUS Said Our Life Can Have Purpose.

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

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

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

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

JESUS said, "If ye shall ask any

thing in MY name, I will do it . . .

Call unto ME, and I will answer

thee, and show thee great and

mighty things, which thou

knowest not."

John 14:14; Jeremiah 33:3

Gulf Coast Baptist Church

Pastor Rober Butz

Pastor Tom Sexton, Pastor Emeritus

312 SE 24th. Avenue

Cape Coral, FL 33990

(239) 574-1000

GulfCoastBaptist@aol.com

www.gulfcoastbaptistchurch.com

https://www.FiveStarChristianMinistries.com

Printed in Memory of Dalton Cash

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"PORNOGRAPHY: Death of a Marriage"

By Dr. Tom Sexton

The Bible tells us that, "Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire." (Jude 1:7)

"Fornication" is a word GOD uses to describe all sexual sins including Pornography. This sin had captured men, women, and children in "Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them..." People of Sodom and Gomorrah passed on their sexual perversions to their children and to their future generations. JESUS spoke of looking on a woman to lust after her during HIS earthly ministry in Matthew 5:28 pictured below.

Sadly, in our day, many young brides enter into a marriage with dreams of hope and love, then are shocked when they discover a pornography problem with their husband during their marriage. And not just a problem, but a serious addiction.

Premarital counseling from parents, pastors, and others in a couple's life, should be told about a serious problem such as sexual addiction before entering into a marriage, especially a marriage where children will be born. Sexual addictions create a tremendous problem in a marital relationship and usually they are passed on to the children in the family.

Marrying to rid oneself of a pornography addiction is very foolish and nothing more than wishful thinking in a couple's relationship. This problem should be addressed 100% before marriage.

A wife cannot solve this kind of addiction in her husband's life because she does not begin to understand what will be required of her in their physical relationship within the marriage.

A young bride, who has discovered this hidden sin in the man she has chosen to spend the rest of her life with; and raise a family, must not keep this a secret from the ones who can help.

If a family member, of the husband, knew of such an addiction and chose to keep it from the bride, before marriage, they have committed a horrible sin against their family and the children who will be born.

They also have disqualified themselves from helping the new couple and their family, because they have proven themselves untrustworthy, and cannot be trusted with the future of others.

It may take years before they will have a loving, trusting relationship with their daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. The reason I say this so strongly is because people become what they are willing to accept.

The Bible says, "It is not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment." (Proverbs 18:5 pictured below) A family member, who knew of this addiction and chose to keep it a secret, may find themselves entangled in the same sin. We all are becoming what we are willing to accept.

Young wives and mothers my choose not to fight nor to say or do anything that would bring shame on their family's good name because of this sin, but their silence is a mistake. They must get help, or the problem will only get bigger and possibly consume their children in the home.

In my ministry I have witnessed the children of such men entering this wicked lifestyle in their teenage years. Sadly, their fathers have by then lost all influence to help their own children from going into the world their fathers are addicted to and consumed with.

The Bible says, "the men of Sodom were wicked and sinners before the LORD exceedingly" (Genesis 13:13 pictured above) Lot became one of the men of Sodom, lost his influence and could not help his married children escape the judgement of GOD on Sodom and Gomorrah.

The Bible says, "And Lot went out, and spake unto his sons in law, which married his daughters, and said, Up, get you out of this place; for the LORD will destroy this city. But he seemed as one that mocked unto his sons in law."  (Genesis 19:13 pictured below)

Lot lost his married daughters forever. How foolish for a husband and father to follow the example of Lot which "vexed his righteous soul." (2nd.Peter 2:8)

WINNING  VICTORY

The Bible says that GOD "delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;) The LORD knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:"  (2nd.Peter 2:7-9).

We must remember that GOD is able to deliver. The LORD JESUS taught HIS disciples to pray, "And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For THINE is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen." (Matthew 6:13).   What can we do ?

Do not try to hide it from GOD.

"If we say that we have fellowship with HIM, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth. . .If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, HE is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (1st.John 1:6-9). This sin cannot be hidden from GOD.

Confess and forsake it.

"He that covereth his sins shall not prosper but: whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy." (Proverbs 28:13 pictured below).

It is not enough just to confess this sin; it must also be forsaken.

Make NO provisions for it.

"Put ye on the LORD JESUS CHRIST, and make no provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof." (Romans 13:14).

"I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes." (Psalm 101:3).

Disconnect all means of connecting to the vile world of pornography, not only for your sakes but also for your family's sake.

Choose your friends very carefully.

"He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed." (Proverbs 13:20).

Surround yourself with good godly friends.

Make yourself accountable.

Be accountable to your pastor.

"Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the WORD of GOD: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. . .Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you." (Hebrews 13:7,13).

No one will be able to win this victory without spiritual help.

Be accountable to you wife.

"Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of GOD." (Ephesians 5:21).

The Bible says, "Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD." (Proverbs 18:22 pictured below)

The Bible also says, "By this I know that THOU favourest me, because mine enemy doth not triumph over me." (Psalm 41:11).

Our three great enemies are: the world, the flesh, and the devil. A wife, with the favor of the LORD, can help you win personal victory over the sin of pornography.

You must let your wife help you. You are in this battle together as one !

Be accountable to your Christian friends.

"Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." (Proverbs 27:17).

Good friends will help you keep your sword sharp !

Die to self.

"In CHRIST JESUS our LORD, I die daily." (1st.Corinthians 15:31).

"I am crucified with CHRIST: nevertheless I life; yet not I, but CHRIST liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the SON of GOD, WHO loved me, and gave HIMSELF for me." (Galatians 2:20 pictured below).

You must live the "crucified" life.

Never accept this as normal

behavior for our day !

"It is not good to accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment." (Proverbs 18:5 pictures earlier in this post).

Fathers must always remember that those who follow them will become what they themselves are willing to accept. We are all, today, what we have been willing to accept !

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

By Dr. Tom Sexton

WordToTheWorld@aol.com

www.FiveStarChristianMinistries.com

https://www.fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

 

"Death Has Been DEFEATED !"

 

Dr. Tom Sexton

Printed in Memory of Dalton Cash

01/05/2004 - 02/11/2025

Everything about death changed when JESUS rose from the grave. In the Old Testament the Psalmist said, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for THOU art with me; THY rod and THY staff they comfort me." (Psalm 23:4)

There are no valleys and no shadows in death, for the believer, since JESUS rose from the grave. Death has been defeated. JESUS said, "I AM HE that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I AM alive for evermore, AMEN; and have the keys of Hell and of Death." (Revelation 1:18).

There is no fear in death for the child of GOD.

The Bible says, in death we are "absent from the body, and. . .present with the LORD." (2nd.Corinthians 5:8b). JESUS said that Christians never die. HE said to Martha, "I AM the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in ME, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in ME shall never die. Believest thou this ?" (John 11:25-26 pictured above).

GOD created man in HIS image. GOD made man a living soul (Genesis 2:7). Man is "spirit and soul and body." (1st.Thessalonians 5:23)

When our body dies, we do not die. Everyone who has ever lived is still alive today somewhere in their forever. For the child of GOD their forever home IS Heaven.

In the Book of Job this question is asked, "If a man die shall he live again ?" GOD did not answer the question, in the Old Testament, but JESUS did when HE told Martha "whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die." (John 11:26). A Christian never dies.

JESUS said we will not even see death.

JESUS said to HIS followers, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, IF a man keep MY saying, he shall never see death." (John 8:51 pictured above). Our body dies, but we never die, and we do not see death when our body dies.

We see our friends and loved ones, who die in the faith, close their eyes and leave this world in death. But what we see, they do not see.

We see what happens on the outside because man looks on the outside; but the one dying does not see what we see: they see JESUS. In other words, they leave their body behind in death because GOD will one day give them a glorious body.

When Steven was put to death, by stoning, for preaching the Gospel, he said, "Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the SON of MAN standing on the right hand of GOD." (Acts 7:56). Steven did not see his body dying, he saw JESUS standing, welcoming him home to Heaven.

When our loved ones leave this world, in death, they do not see what others around them see; they see JESUS standing, welcoming them home to Heaven. Heaven is GOD's gift to HIS children.

Heaven is GOD's Gift to Believers

JESUS said, "I go and prepare a place for you. . .that where I AM, there ye may be also." (John 14:2-3). Heaven is a place with beauty beyond our dreams.

JESUS is the only door to Heaven. JESUS said, I AM the DOOR: by ME if any man enter in, he shall be saved." (John 10:9). JESUS died for our sins and paid our sin debt in full. After three days JESUS rose from the grave.

HE said, "Because I live ye shall live also." (John 10:7). "JESUS said. . .I AM the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in ME, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die." (John 11:25-26).

JESUS said that believers "never die." Their body dies, but believers have everlasting life. They do not die. They close their eyes in death and open them in Heaven. In death, Christians are "absent from the body, and. . .present with the LORD." (2nd.Corinthians 5:8b). Everyone is going to live forever somewhere; one day we will see it is true. Is Heaven going to be your eternal home when you die ?

You Can Go To Heaven

Acknowledge you are a sinner. The Bible says, "As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one. . .For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" (Romans 3:10,23).

Believe CHRIST died for you. The Bible says, "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD." "GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." (Romans 6:23;5:8).

Call upon HIM to save you. The Bible 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." (Romans 10:9).

If you would be willing to turn to GOD in repentance and faith, pray this prayer:

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.

Everlasting life is ours when we receive CHRIST as our personal LORD and SAVIOR. GOD bless you.

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

HEAVEN

By Tom Sexton

There are no shadows in death with JESUS.

There are no valleys we must walk through.

Death is only a doorway,

And all of Heaven awaits you. 

Our vision on earth is limited -

We see only into the blue,

But in death our vision is endless - 

All of Glory comes into view.

Death takes hold of the body,

And our race on earth is through. 

The battle for us is over. 

With open arms HE welcomes you.

So, fear not the end of life's journey.

Believe what GOD says is true.

Death has been defeated !

Heaven is HIS gift to you.

Printed in memory of Dalton Cash

01/05/2004 - 02/11/2025

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