Tuesday, May 31, 2005

Deliverance

In a message dated 5/27/2005 12:04:49 AM Pacific Standard Time, Neil_Andersons_Daily_in_Christ@crosswalkmail.com writes:
Finally, brethren, whatever is true . . . let your mind dwell on these things (Philippians 4:8).

When Satan harasses you, you may be prone to languish in the shadows of your misery. You cry out for God to deliver you, like Jesus miraculously and instantaneously delivered the demonized people in the Gospels. But when you read through the Epistles, it is obvious that your deliverance has already been accomplished in Christ's work on the cross and His resurrection. Since you are with Christ in the light, you never again need to live in the shadows.

You must choose the truth and assume your responsibility to exercise your authority and resist the devil. From your position in Christ, you must resist the devil, renounce participation in his schemes, confess sin and forgive those who have offended you.

Lord, Your truth gives me life and leads me in the everlasting way. I embrace Your truth to direct my steps today.

Luke-treasure

    Luke 12:16  And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully:  

A rich man, a man already wealthy is blessed with a large harvest.

Luke 12:17  And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?  

He thought within himself, he did not consult God, because he was rich and trusted in his riches. A rich man is a covetous man, never having enough. This parable was for the man who wanted more of his brothers inheritance, he too was covetous and only spoke to Jesus because he wanted him to make him have more money. It is not wise to seek God only for material wealth, he knows what you need.

Luke 12:18  And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods.  

He wanted a building program so that he could have more room for all his goods. God is not interested in buildings or warehouses, he wants your heart. There are many big expensive church buildings with few people in them. Why waste God's money? Why build a warehouse to store wealth if your heart is not rich towards God? Who are we pleasing?  

Luke 12:19  And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.  

It was all flesh, the desires of the flesh.
 

Luke 12:20  But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?  

Who are you building for? Who will inherit your wealth? You can't take it where you are going. Is God impressed with your worldly splendor? Your soul will be required of you. What have you waiting for you, did you think of eternity?  

Luke 12:21  So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.  

This is a warning to those seeking the riches of this world with no thought of God and his judgment. What does God want from you?

Sunday, May 29, 2005

Luke-The inheritance

Luke 12:13  And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me.
Luke 12:14  And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you?
 

Who decides who receives the inheritance? Is it not the one who made the will or testament? Jesus did not want to interfere with another mans covenant. Perhaps it was the will that one should receive all or as the law, two thirds going to the older son? Some say it is not fair that God would send some to hell. God has made a covenant through the blood of Jesus. All must come through the blood of the Lamb to receive forgiveness. If a person refuses the covenant he cannot legally receive of the will. The will or testament is through the blood of Jesus and no other way. Like this man who desired that he be given the inheritance, it is not lawful, unless the man gives him grace. As the old covenant excluded the Gentiles, the New Covenant receives all who come through the blood. This is God's grace for you, yet it must be received through His covenant. No man can overrule his will and testament. The covenant stands. Will you come lawfully through the door that is Jesus to gain all things of God. Why look for another way? There is no other way.  

Acts 4:12  Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

The true problem with the man was covetousness.

Luke 12:15  And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.  

Thursday, May 26, 2005

Cell phone pornography

Playboy now wants to advertise their pornographic products by way of cell
phones.  There are approximately 170 million cell phones in this country
alone, so Playboy sees this as a huge market. 
Yes, I had heard that cell phones were trying to sell porn. They are doing this in Latin America, all in the name of "free speech."  But how about the Bible? They wish to remove God "separation of church and state."  Well "separation" is Biblical; Be ye separate from the world. Come out from among them. Also, Go ye and preach to all people. The dividing is here, it will not be hard for the angels to separate the goats from the sheep, they are already doing the separating themselves...

Wednesday, May 25, 2005

Luke-take no thought

  Luke 12:11  And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say: Luke 12:12  For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say.  

When dangerous times come, from the Pharisees and lawyers, from enemies of God, do not worry or rehearse what to say. God's Holy Spirit goes with you and will teach you what to say. Our words are not inspired, His words are. When brought to trial and you are innocent, when being persecuted for Christ Jesus' sake, let Him speak truth to you through the Spirit of truth.  

John 16:13  Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come.

John 16:14  He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you.
 

The battles that come because of our connection to God, are spiritual battles, that need the sword of the Spirit, the inspired word of God through you in time of need. Some of what comes to us is through our own doing, we also should receive the truth if we have failed to obey the law.

1 Pet 3:17  For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.
1 Pet 3:18  For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:
1 Pet 3:19  By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;

Tuesday, May 24, 2005

Luke-confession

Confession   Luke 12:6  Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?
Luke 12:7  But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.
 

Do not fear the Pharisees or men of power, but fear God who shall bring everything to His light of truth to be examined. God is concerned for all life, it is precious to him; including the lowly sparrows. How much more are you loved and known of God who made you for his fellowship and glory? He even knows the number of hairs on your head. What then? We respond with intimate words of love to the one who knows us so well. We tell Him of our love and worship of him. We cannot fool God.

Luke 12:8  Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of God:  

I confess that the Lord Jesus Christ is God's Son, sent to redeem me from satan's bondage. Through him I am become an adopted son of God with all the rights and privileges. The LORD God is my Father, my daddy who loves me and wants me to come to him. Jesus is our savior who acknowledges us before the Father in the presence of the angel witnesses.  

Mat 16:19  And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.  

We confess Jesus here, before men and Jesus confesses us to the Father, before angel witnesses.  

Rom 10:9  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.
Rom 10:10  For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
Rom 10:11  For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

Luke 12:9  But he that denieth me before men shall be denied before the angels of God.  

Do not deny Jesus even if it is your feelings at the moment. He is your hope and way to eternal life with the Father. Jesus has grace to forgive you if you have spoken against him. The Pharisees could repent and be forgiven after being convicted by God through His Spirit. Saul of Tarsus, later called the apostle Paul is an example of a repentant Pharisee, who was convicted of God, repented and was received by the Lord Jesus Christ.  

Luke 12:10  And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but unto him that blasphemeth against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven.  

This is called blaspheming the Holy Spirit.  

Mark 3:29  But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost hath never forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal damnation:
Mark 3:30  Because they said, He hath an unclean spirit.

For example saying that the power that Jesus had was of the devil. Refusing the conviction of the Holy Spirit, which leads you to repentance and the forgiveness of Christ Jesus. No Holy Spirit conviction means no repentance and a heart hardened towards God's only way to be forgiven. You cannot be forgiven if you ignore or reject the Spirit of God. Come to Jesus and become a child of God, what an awesome miracle this is.  

2 Pet 3:9  The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.
   

Monday, May 23, 2005

sins revealed

Sins revealed   Luke 12:1  In the mean time, when there were gathered together an innumerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.  

 In the mean time, as the Pharisees asked him question after question looking for a reason to condemn him. A great crowd assembled. They were stepping on each other to be where the action was. This was the entertainment of that time: Jesus speaking to the Pharisees. Jesus spoke to his close disciples: beware of the leaven, the sin of the Pharisees. What sin? Hypocrisy. They wished to trick Jesus, they were not sincere in their questions.

Luke 12:2  For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known.  

Jesus knew their hearts, all sins will be revealed.


Luke 12:3  Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.  

You can't hide your sins from God, they all will be made public.    

Luke 12:4  And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no more that they can do.    

Jesus speaks to his close friends, saying, do not be afraid of these hypocrites, they cannot touch your soul. They will pass away as will all flesh, then they will cry out to God, and he will not hear them, because they rejected His Son. So proud they are now, but they will see their lack. Fear them not.  

Luke 12:5  But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.  

Fear God, not man. Receive Jesus by faith and become children of God. This is a better way for you then the way of the legalizing Pharisees and lawyers. In Jesus we are free, in him we are forgiven of sins. No other kind of law keeping will bring eternal life, but instead, judgment and separation.

Galatians Studies

One man who received Jesus for a time returned to Judaism and the law. Another who came out of a cult is receiving pressure to return. Others have felt that they have lost out in their standing in Christ Jesus. They need to understand about the gospel and grace. Jesus is Lord, his blood still saves and his grace has made us free.  

 Eaglewings Galatians Studies  

  Monday at 5pm Pacific - 8pm eastern time (Gal 4:1-16,  Topics: Elements - Fulness of times - Abba - Observing days - Be as I AM - In weakness )  

 Thursday at 5pm pacific - 8pm eastern time (Gal 4:17-31,  Topics: Zealous - Bound or Free? - Two covenants - Born free )  

 Life - Eaglewings Bible  (an open room)    

Gal 4:29 But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.

Work outwardly

Phil 2:12  Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
Phil 2:13  For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
 

 Keep doing the good things. God has gifted you to see spiritual things. We see others failings first. The devil is busy putting his thoughts in our head... when we turn to Jesus to be like him, then we see our failings in the world. BUT, in him we are perfect, because God sees his son.

Thursday, May 19, 2005

Luke-Laying wait

Luke 11:53  And as he said these things unto them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to urge him vehemently, and to provoke him to speak of many things:
Luke 11:54  Laying wait for him, and seeking to catch something out of his mouth, that they might accuse him.
 

They could wait forever and never find a real fault with the words Jesus spoke; He spoke his Father's words. One thing we can learn from this is that with much speaking error can come from our lips, so we need to speak the word of God, especially to those laying wait to find reasons to accuse us. The devil is as a lion, laying wait for us to sin or say something foolish.  

1 Pet 5:8  Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
1 Pet 5:9  Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
 

The devil is a liar, so finding nothing wrong with Jesus, false witnesses were brought in to accuse him.  

Mat 26:63  But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.
Mat 26:64  Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
Mat 26:65  Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy.
Mat 26:66  What think ye? They answered and said, He is guilty of death.
 

 People who reject Jesus will reject his witnesses. They are foolish, playing the devils fool and sealing their damnation. Do not be afraid of them, instead, pray for them.

Wednesday, May 18, 2005

Luke-Blood guilty

  Luke 11:47  Woe unto you! for ye build the sepulchres of the prophets, and your fathers killed them.
Luke 11:48  Truly ye bear witness that ye allow the deeds of your fathers: for they indeed killed them, and ye build their sepulchres.
 

A sepulchre is a  memorial burial place, honoring a dead person, calling attention to their existence and departure. The Jewish father's did not honor the prophets, not wanting to hear God through them, for He convicted them of sin. Often the men of God were killed and later memorialized.

Luke 11:49  Therefore also said the wisdom of God, I will send them prophets and apostles, and some of them they shall slay and persecute:
Luke 11:50  That the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation;
Luke 11:51  From the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which perished between the altar and the temple: verily I say unto you, It shall be required of this generation.
 

 Jesus speaking prophetically from God judges this generation. Why was he upset with them? Because He came as their promised Messiah, their deliverer, Emmanuel, God with them, and they resisted his words and deeds. They wished to trap him with some offense for an excuse to kill him.  

 Mat 11:21  Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes.
Mat 11:22  But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment, than for you.
Mat 11:23  And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven, shalt be brought down to hell: for if the mighty works, which have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day.
Mat 11:24  But I say unto you, That it shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of judgment, than for thee.

Luke 11:52  Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered.  

By their interpretations of the laws, they removed the key to knowledge; faith. They entered not in to the Spiritual understanding ofGod's word and those who were understanding, they hindered. This is going on today in some places. Those who are close in the Spirit to understanding are hindered by those in authority who trust in traditions and the teachings of men, over the revelation of God's word through His Spirit.

1 John 4:6  We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.
 

 Can we be blood guilty? Have we shared Jesus with others? Who will tell them? He has removed our guilt through His blood, let us share the good news.

Tuesday, May 17, 2005

Luke-Lawyer's burdens

Luke 11:45  Then answered one of the lawyers, and said unto him, Master, thus saying thou reproachest us also.
Luke 11:46  And he said, Woe unto you also, ye lawyers! for ye lade men with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch not the burdens with one of your fingers.

 

 No man is able to keep all of God's laws. To not keep one of the laws places you under the curse of the law.  

 Deu 27:26  Cursed be he that confirmeth not all the words of this law to do them. And all the people shall say, Amen.  

 To break one law is to be in sin and separated from God. The Lawyers were the experts at interpreting the law of Moses. Because of their interpretations of the law, they added minute details and burdens to the law. They used the scriptures to impose religious bondage on the people. Jesus came to remove those burdens, for the Lawyers would not do so.  

 Mat 11:28  Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Mat 11:29  Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
Mat 11:30  For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.  

Gal 3:10  For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.
Gal 3:11  But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.
Gal 3:12  And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.
Gal 3:13  Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree:


  Faith in Jesus results in the grace of God. Jesus in you has kept all the laws, so we walk in freedom by His Spirit of truth. We no longer suffer, trying in the flesh to please God by laws and works. Christ Jesus has given us His Spirit and freedom to walk by faith, it is the work of God in us and by us, His grace through faith.

Doves and God's sent creatures

 
 When I get back to the apartment (after door to door prayer ministry); there was a dove sitting on my gate. And it walks off a few feet but doesn't fly away. It seemed right then, that God was saying to me, "That's right. Good job today."

Yes, sent to encourage you. I had a similar incident. I had been praying by the river, a place where the water runs over high rocks making the sound of rushing waters. I left the waters and walked the trail to where a bench was. I rested and in my right ear was the sound of rushing waters (voice of God) and in the left ear was the sound of a dove. A gentle cooing. What peace there was, as if God was saying, I have heard your prayers, be at peace.  

One more story from a lady I met on the chats. She told her story of much abuse at her home in Alaska from a stepfather. She had turned 17 and said I will kill myself. She headed for the river and saw a tree that had fallen over the river. She said, I will walk out on that tree and jump in the river. She walked out on the tree trunk looked into the river and looked to the left, an eagle landed and was looking at her . She looked to the right and a bear was watching her. Yes, God sends even his animals to help us when we need him. She did not kill herself, but she came to trust in God and found Jesus as her Savior.  

Another story of a young child in a bad home in the desert. She would walk the desert feeling safer there then at home. God sent a seagull to be her companion. The bird was with her giving her much comfort until it died..   Gary

Sunday, May 15, 2005

Persecution

 2 Tim 3:10  But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience,

2 Tim 3:11  Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me.


  Paul could say to the converts, follow me as I follow Jesus.  

1 Cor 4:15  For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.
1 Cor 4:16  Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me.  

To speak the truth is important, but so is living the truth. They knew his doctrines and teachings were sound words of truth. His manner of life was steadfast, disciplined, consistent and faithful. His purpose was to preach the gospel.  

Rom 15:20  Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation:  

He was long suffering with love. He wrote the love chapter in 1 Corinthians, by the Holy Ghost.  

1 Cor 13:4  Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,   Love is patient.  

1 Cor 13:7  Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
 

Even when persecuted, Paul continued. He trusted the Lord and the Lord delivered him.

2 Tim 3:12  Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.  

Have you been persecuted? If not, does any one see you living godly in Christ Jesus? How many who do this will be persecuted? All.  

 Mat 5:10  Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Mat 5:11  Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
Mat 5:12  Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

How should we react? Should we give them back double what they gave us? What did Jesus say?  

Mat 5:44  But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you,and persecute you;

Mat 5:45  That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
Mat 5:46  For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
Mat 5:47  And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
Mat 5:48  Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.

 2 Cor 4:8  We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
2 Cor 4:9  Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
2 Cor 4:10  Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
2 Cor 4:11  For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.

Flesh against Spirit. The ungodly opposes those of God.  

Gal 4:29  But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now.

 Persecution comes at the end times.

Luke 21:11  And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven.
Luke 21:12  But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake.
Luke 21:13  And it shall turn to you for a testimony.
Luke 21:14  Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer:
Luke 21:15  For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.
Luke 21:16  And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.
Luke 21:17  And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake.
Luke 21:18  But there shall not an hair of your head perish.
Luke 21:19  In your patience possess ye your souls.

2 Tim 3:13  But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.  

Evil men, demonic, sinful evil actions, bad character, bad actions, the opposite of Paul's example. Seducers, morally evil, seeking all manner of perversion. Satanic deception growing worse and worse.

2 Tim 3:14  But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;  

As evil increases we are to continue in godly behavior; the things you have learned and are assured of.  

2 Tim 2:2  And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.
2 Tim 2:3  Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.
2 Tim 2:4  No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.
 

Are their things you know with all surety, that cannot be changed by outward circumstances? This is building your house on the rock.

2 Tim 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.  

There is nothing said here of baptisms or tongues, the focus is Jesus Christ and his word.

2 Tim 3:16  All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:  

All scripture, not selected parts, but all scripture is given by inspiration of God.  

Inspiration: That extraordinary or supernatural divine influence vouchsafed to those who wrote the Holy Scriptures, rendering their writings infallible. (Eastons)   

God breathed the living word into existence through the various writers. Profitable, useful for doctrine, for finding error, for correction, for instruction in righteous living.  

2 Tim 3:17  That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

 Phil 1:27  Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;
Phil 1:28  And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.
Phil 1:29  For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;  

We are the people of God equipped to do his work in the end times. The body coming together has all the gifts. Together we discern, together we are overcomers by His power within us. As evil increases we must keep a steady course in the manner of life that God has given to us to follow. We are to be as Jesus, even if all oppose us.

Saturday, May 14, 2005

Thorn or messenger?

but out of them all the Lord delivered me.   That's 3 different places: Antioch, Iconium, & Lystra.... Out of them all, the Lord delivered him.... I was wondering, do U believe the Lord ever healed Paul of the thorn in his flesh?.... Perhaps this deliverence is speaking of something else, but I have heard some1 refer 2 this verse as proof that the Lord healed Paul of the thorn in his flesh later on in life.... J/w about your thoughts on this....
I see the answer in the verse that speaks of the thorn in the flesh, but I see things too simply perhaps?   2 Cor 12:7  And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
2 Cor 12:8  For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.
2 Cor 12:9  And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
2 Cor 12:10  Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
  The messenger of Satan...A messenger is an angel or devil of satan. Where does satan get to us first? In our thoughts, perhaps reminding Paul of his former wicked life. Wearing him down. Secondly the angel could direct another or others to persecute Paul. Most especially the Jewish leaders who opposed the gospel message. Everywhere he went they would follow.     buffet...Main Entry: [2]buffet
Date: 13th century
transitive senses
1 : to strike sharply especially with the hand :
CUFF
2 : to strike repeatedly :
BATTER <the waves buffeted the shore>
3 : to drive, force, move, or attack by or as if by repeated blows
intransitive senses
: to make one's way especially under difficult conditions
  Sounds like physical persecution...

Friday, May 13, 2005

Ask Jesus in your heart?

One such term or expression is "Ask Jesus into your heart".  The same expression is sometimes phrased, "Ask Jesus into your life", or "Invite Jesus into your heart".  NOWHERE DOES ONE FIND ANYTHING LIKE THIS IN THE BIBLE.  The Bible says, "Unless a man be born of the water and the spirit, he shall not enter the kingdom of heaven"-John 3:5  Why don't we use scripture?  Why not drop the traditional phraseology of the modern church?

I believe this is from Romans 10:9-10  

Rom 10:9  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.
Rom 10:10  For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

We must believe with the heart, God the Father must speak to our hearts through the Holy Ghost and Jesus becomes one with us through His Spirit. I suppose in truth we are connected to him as branches to the fvine (John5), yet he comes within us through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is our connection. As Jesus Spoke of the living waters, (John 4) an inexhaustible supply of his Spirit and His word flowing out to the worlds needs. All need Jesus.  

 John 1:12  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 1:13  Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Belief in the name of Jesus resulting in the power of God within to become Sons of God, His doing. We first must believe in Him and confess Him before men, God does the changing of our heart. The Baptism of Jesus is of the Spirit. Water baptism is in obedience, a sign of the new covenant. The presence of God's Spirit within is salvation, and Jesus is in the Spirit.   Denominations focus on certain things, the Bible is bigger than most see.  

Rom 8:9  But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

Wednesday, May 11, 2005

Luke-Woe, woe, woe

Luke 11:42  But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.  

Woe, an expression of grief, regret or distress. Woe unto you Pharisees, Jewish religious leaders who observed their own traditions and also the law of God. You tythe, giving ten percent of your increase even of herbs, that is fine; but ignore the weightier matters of God's law: judgment, knowing right from wrong and the love of God, which is your supreme duty and command.

Luke 11:43  Woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets.  

They loved the praise of people more than of God. They strutted around as peacocks, thinking they were above others, loving the power over them and their own advantage. Shepherd, do you fleece the flock? Are you using your position to Lord it over others and to gain wealth? Woe unto you, you must give an accounting to God.  

 John 12:43  For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.

Luke 11:44  Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are as graves which appear not, and the men that walk over them are not aware of them.  

 Inwardly they were as dead men. Outwardly they appeared as regal men of God.  

Mat 23:27  Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness.
Mat 23:28  Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.  

Jesus was not intimidated by His accusers. He let them know what God thought of them, for he was the Son of God.
 

Tuesday, May 10, 2005

Luke-All things are clean unto you

Luke 11:37  And as he spake, a certain Pharisee besought him to dine with him: and he went in, and sat down to meat.
Luke 11:38  And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first washed before dinner.
 

 The Pharisee observed many ceremonial laws and expected Jesus to do likewise. Jesus never broke God's law.

Luke 11:39  And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness.
Luke 11:40  Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also?
  

Picture a cup that is very clean on the outside, but on the inside is filthy. This is as the Pharisees. They loved to be seen and admired by others wearing their long religious robes, observing their laws to be seen of men.  

1 Sam 16:7  But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.  

Jesus knew the heart of the Pharisee who accused him. Jesus has a pure heart, He is God come in a man. God the Son, whose spirit came in the form of a man, Jesus. The world likes to accuse those of Christ, they first accused Him of sinning. Jesus turns the thoughts back around to the accuser. Accusers seldom are perfect, they are hiding their own sins by being aggressive.

Luke 11:41  But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you.  

Give alms, share your abundance with the poor and behold all things are clean unto you. Jesus spoke of the new thing, the New Covenant in his blood. No longer will the dietary laws be in affect, all things shall be made clean to eat. This was revealed to Peter in the book of acts.  

Acts 11:5  I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me:
Acts 11:6  Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.
Acts 11:7  And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat.
Acts 11:8  But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth.
Acts 11:9  But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.
Acts 11:10  And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven.

This was a new thing to the Jews. This also meant that God had cleansed the non-Jews, the Gentiles through faith in Jesus.  

2 Cor 5:17  Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
 

love Him back

You can have the knowledge of the Bible but still not get the full effect of the Bible if you do not have Jesus in your heart and even if you have a degree your teachings will not have an effect where as someone without going to school teachings will be effective though the Holy Spirit....... (A)

1 Cor 8:1  Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth.
1 Cor 8:2  And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.
1 Cor 8:3  But if any man love God, the same is known of him
.
 

Love is so important, with wisdom from God. The word charity I see as love in action, meeting anothers need. How can we meet God's need?  We love him back, thats about all we can do, and obey him.  

John 14:15  If ye love me, keep my commandments.

lack of faith in a storm

..I like the passage in Mark 4. Jesus was sleeping in the storm. His disciples were freaking.They thought.. Hey don't you care that we are about to die? The He rebukes the storm....He was not disturbed by the storm; but their lack of faith did disturb Him. (SC)
This bothers me too. I see times when I lack faith, looking at circumstances. One example was yesterday. It was raining buckets of water and hailing. I had an appointment outdoors with a businessman at 9AM, I called his secretary telling her I think we should cancel. He was not in his office, I was waiting for him to return the call. She cancelled the appointment, later he called and was upset with me. She cancelled the appointment because of my vision of tomorrow. Tomorrow came and it was sunshine, but I got to sleep in...lol.  One example of many, I sometimes do not see beyond the immediate storms, But, I see Jesus waiting on the shore for me, and you and all who trust in him...

Monday, May 9, 2005

Luke-Your Light

  Luke 11:33  No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth it in a secret place, neither under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light.  

 What good is it to light a candle and hide it? Are you ashamed of your candle? It's purpose is to give out light, let it shine.

Luke 11:34  The light of the body is the eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light; but when thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness.

Luke 11:35  Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness.

What is meant by a single eye? It refers to focusing on one thing, and we know that is God. We keep our eyes on the things of God, his Bible, his purpose, to be the light and truth reaching out to others. If we look at evil things, soon our thoughts will be in darkness. We must keep our minds on God's word.  

 Luke 11:36  If thy whole body therefore be full of light, having no part dark, the whole shall be full of light, as when the bright shining of a candle doth give thee light.  

Isn't that what God wants for us? It is what I want to.  

John 8:12  Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.   Jesus is the light of truth  

John 14:6  Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Let your light shine in a sin darkened world, so others may come to Jesus.   Eaglewings New Testament Studies

Sunday, May 8, 2005

Luke- Greater than Jonah

Luke 11:27  And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him, Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked.  

The woman wished to honor Jesus by giving honor to his mother. On mother's day we honor mothers, but Jesus was more like the image of His Father, God, than of his mother. Mary was blessed, but still a sinner.  

Luke 1:28  And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.

Luke 11:28  But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.  

He came to bring the word of he Father. His word is eternal and holy. Blessed are they that hear the word and keep it.

Luke 11:29  And when the people were gathered thick together, he began to say, This is an evil generation: they seek a sign; and there shall no sign be given it, but the sign of Jonas the prophet.
Luke 11:30  For as Jonas was a sign unto the Ninevites, so shall also the Son of man be to this generation.
  

Some do not accept the story of Jonah, calling it a myth. Jesus affirms the story as an illustration of his death, being in the grave three days, and his resurrection witness. When the Ninevites heard Jonah they repented and were saved from God's wrath. In the same manner, those who repent and receive the witness of Jesus are saved with eternal salvation.  

Heb 7:25  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.

Luke 11:31  The queen of the south shall rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation, and condemn them: for she came from the utmost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.
Luke 11:32  The men of Nineve shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: for they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here.


Saturday, May 7, 2005

Luke-Casting out spirits

  Luke 11:24  When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out.
Luke 11:25  And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished.
Luke 11:26  Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first.
 

Can a Christian have an unclean spirit, a demon? Nowhere in the Bible does it say that we are posessed by demons, we are either owned by satan or we belong to God through the Lord Jesus Christ.   In Christ we are given power to cast out demons. We must use this power with discernment. For example, we may cast demons out of a person, but we must be sure they receive Jesus and the Holy Spirit to fill the empty room of the heart. If not, seven other spirits more wicked then the one cast out may come in. Remember the Gadarenes man? He had a legion of demons and Jesus cast them out into a herd of swine. Afterwards the man was saved and wished to follow Jesus, a good desire.   Mark 5:18  And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him.

Mark 5:19  Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.

Can demons posess a Christian? No, we either are of Christ or we are of satan. Can demons cause problems, yes but we have God's power to resist them.  

James 4:7  Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
We can invite devils to influence us if we are into sin.

James 4:8  Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.

1 Pet 5:6  Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:
1 Pet 5:7  Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
1 Pet 5:8  Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
1 Pet 5:9  Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

One way satan can torment you as a Christian, is to believe his lies. What we believe will control us. Learn of who you are in Christ Jesus, do not listen to condemning words and words of sorrow. In the Lord Jesus Christ we have victory, walk in the Spirit of God and be all that you were created to be. A child of the most high God.   Eaglewings Ministries

Wednesday, May 4, 2005

Luke-Strongman

Luke 11:21  When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace:
Luke 11:22  But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils.
 

 Jesus is greater than the strongman; the devil.

Luke 11:23  He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.  

 No fence walking, you are either with Jesus or you are against him. All must decide who they will trust.  Hear the words of Joshua.    

Josh 24:14  Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD.
Josh 24:15  And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.
Josh 24:16  And the people answered and said, God forbid that we should forsake the LORD, to serve other gods;

Love never fails

1 Cor 13:4  Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,
1 Cor 13:5  Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;
1 Cor 13:6  Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth;
1 Cor 13:7  Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.
1 Cor 13:8  Charity never faileth:

Beautiful words. Have most of us been hurt by someone or something we loved? Sure, for we live in a world with both good and evil. This is why we must live in the Spirit and study the word of God. The natural man cannot make it alone. Failed love is a normal occurance. Words can be cheap. The tongue can bless or curse, It seems that the bad we often remember all too well. The Bible says to look on good things. We are to love God with all we are and others as ourselves. We must not be too quick to judge others.The alcoholic man, may have a daughter who loves him with all her heart. Pray for the man, that he will be free to truly love that daughter. Sin destroys lives; Jesus came to free us from sin and to bring us to the Father.

What greater love than to reconcile others to God the Father.We must have eyes of love, to look past the sin and see a person as Gods beloved.We are not to destroy lives, but to save them. Love gives, without expecting in return. How can you be hurt by that kind of love? This is the love in 1Cor 13, the love that Jesus has for us to share.

flesh and Spirit

 " Keep  watching and praying that you may not enter into temptation; the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak." -Matthew 26:40-41 NAS

Rom 7:22  For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:
Rom 7:23  But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
Rom 7:24  O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?
Rom 7:25  I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
Rom 8:1  There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

My flesh may fail. My strength may not be as it once was. Perhaps I get too many recurring coughs; the memory forgets to remember, all part of the older person. Yet, we are not old in His Spirit. His word renews my mind minute by minute. What is lost in the flesh is a gain in the spiritual walk. For when I am weak then He is strong.  

2 Cor 12:10  Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
Father help your weaker in body Saints, renew them first in the Holy Spirit. Bring new health and life to them...  

Rom 8:11  But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.
Rom 8:12  Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.
Rom 8:13  For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.
Rom 8:14  For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
Rom 8:15  For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
Rom 8:16  The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:
Rom 8:17  And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.
Rom 8:18  For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.
Rom 8:19  For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.

Tuesday, May 3, 2005

Luke-Finger of God

Luke 11:14  And he was casting out a devil, and it was dumb. And it came to pass, when the devil was gone out, the dumb spake; and the people wondered.  

A dumb devil, interesting.  

Luke 11:15  But some of them said, He casteth out devils through Beelzebub the chief of the devils.
Luke 11:16  And others, tempting him, sought of him a sign from heaven.
Luke 11:17  But he, knowing their thoughts, said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and a house divided against a house falleth.
Luke 11:18  If Satan also be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? because ye say that I cast out devils through Beelzebub.
 

A kingdom divided cannot stand, words to apply also to our nation, that appears to be divided over the name of Jesus and the ten commandments written by the finger of God.   What purpose would it be to cast out through the authority of the devil? Beelzebub, It is probably the same as Baalzebub ( q.v.), the god of Ekron, meaning "the lord of flies," or, as others think, "the lord of dung," or "the dung-god." (Easton's)

Luke 11:19  And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your sons cast them out? therefore shall they be your judges.  

Let your own son's speak to you of your error.

Luke 11:20  But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you.  

Jesus, with the finger of God, casting out devils, no doubt this was the presence of God's kingdom authority. This was the finger of God that was with Moses before the King of Egypt.  

Exo 8:19  Then the magicians said unto Pharaoh, This is the finger of God: and Pharaoh's heart was hardened, and he hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had said.   This was the same authority that met with Moses on Mt. Sinai and delivered the law.

Exo 31:18  And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.  

The Jewish leaders hearts were as Pharaohs heart, resisting the Lord. You can resist God and bring destruction or glorify him and be blessed. The power of God is at hand. His finger is pointed at you. Receive his power, by receiving Jesus, and a new life in Him.

Eaglewings Ministries


 

Monday, May 2, 2005

Luke: more Holy Spirit

Luke 11:11  If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent?
Luke 11:12  Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion?
 

A natural father should meet the needs of a child when asked. A good father will try to give the child good things. How much more will our heavenly Father give us good things when we ask Him in faith?

Luke 11:13  If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?  

What do we need most to be spiritual children of God? We need more of His Holy Spirit. Some refer to this as the way to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Hear the words of John the Baptist.  

John 1:33  And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.  

We are not His without having the Holy Spirit, for the Spirit is necessary for salvation. By grace are we saved by faith, it is the work of God.  

Rom 8:9  But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.  

 Some teach that when we are become children of God through faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, that we receive all of the Holy Spirit. There is one Spirit and many fillings. Are you completely filled with His Spirit, lacking nothing in truth and the power of God in your life? If not? Pray, as Jesus has spoken in this verse.  

How much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?  

One final thought. This was spoken to Jews under the old covenant. Jesus had not yet finished his purpose for coming. He had not yet made the way for our redemption through his shed blood and His resurrection from the dead.  

John 7:38  He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
John 7:39  (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
 

At Pentecost the promised Holy Spirit came and we are sealed by His Spirit.   

Eph 1:13  In whom ye also trusted (Jesus), after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
Eph 1:14  Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
 

It is praying through the Holy Spirit that we are connected to our heavenly Father. A spiritual experience cannot replace your need to hear God's word and to communicate in prayer. If you are not sure you are saved, for sure you need to pray asking for the Holy Spirit in your life. If you want more evidence, including knowledge of His gifts for you? Pray, ask for more of His Spirit of truth.

sow to reap

If you want something Godly to come out of your life...You have to get it in there!      Sow, sow, sow the Word of God into you life. What do you need? Joy, direction, peace, healing...comfort? Something else? What? Start with prayer. Lord; I need_______. Don't sow sparingly. Sow heavily...so you will reap abundance. Don't delay. Start planting today. You will reap a harvest. (gh)

Ask...I need. If we truly need something, ask, amen, sow the seed, read His promises and ask in His will.  

Seek..walk in faith, what you need may be in God's word already, seek his word first and pray, listening for his answer. Seek His presence in your life with all the Spiritual fruit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  

knock...Do not avoid opportunities and do not let your life be ruled by habits, good habits are still habits. Seek new directions and ministries, if an opportunity comes, go through the door. You have knocked, so when the door opens go through it.  

Sunday, May 1, 2005

Luke: Ask

  Luke 11:5  And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves;  

You can go to a friend at midnight, when in need.  

 Prov 17:17  A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.

Luke 11:6  For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him?
Luke 11:7  And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee.
 

We sometimes would rather not be bothered.

Luke 11:8  I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth.  

Because of his bothersome persistance, his boldness to continue asking, the man gave him his request, just to shut him up. The friend was a nuisance, but he got what he had requested. Think of Jesus as our best friend.  

Heb 4:15  For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
Heb 4:16  Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

Luke 11:9  And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.  

God is not seeing us as a nuisance. God is not asleep and if we are his friend he will hear our request, we need not continue begging him. Ask in faith based on your relationship to him through the Lord Jesus Christ.   Ask, and it shall be given you: seek, his things and you shall find; knock, inquire of God and he shall open up the blessings of God to you; now, that is a true friend.

Luke 11:10  For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.

Jesus is speaking to everyone chosen of the Father.  

John 15:13  Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
John 15:14  Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
John 15:15  Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
John 15:16  Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.

Ask on the basis of your relationship to the Lord Jesus Christ, he is our best friend and our Lord. Has he not promised?

Eaglewings New Testament Studies