Monthly Archives: February 2011

Reflections in Psalms – Day 68 – Offended

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Psalm 119:161-168

SCHIN
161 Princes have persecuted me without a cause: but my heart standeth in awe of thy word.
162 I rejoice at thy word, as one that findeth great spoil.
163 I hate and abhor lying: but thy law do I love.
164 Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments.
165 Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.
166 Lord, I have hoped for thy salvation, and done thy commandments.
167 My soul hath kept thy testimonies; and I love them exceedingly.
168 I have kept thy precepts and thy testimonies: for all my ways are before thee.

Journaling:

1. Find all the things the Bible will do for you
2. Find the things you are suppose to do with your Bible
3. Find the things the Bible is likened to

So many times I have heard Psalm 119:165 quoted! It’s a poignant verse and one that cuts to the core of the human heart! How often we see someone leave a church because of what the Pastor said. Just what is the Lord trying to teach us in this thought-provoking verse? The word “offend,” according to Noah Webster’s 1828 Dictionary, means:

To disturb, annoy, or cause to fall or stumble.

Applying the definition to verse 165 is quite enlightening, isn’t it? Those who love God’s word have GREAT peace and NOTHING will disturb them – NOTHING will annoy them – NOTHING will cause them to fall or stumble. Very interesting! In my 31 years of salvation, I have heard many an excuse as to why a Christian has chosen to leave a church. To name a few:

  • The Pastor’s always in our business
  • The church is legalistic
  • They are too large
  • They are too small, etc.

I think you get it.  Something isn’t quite right in the spiritual life of someone who is led to leave a church without a just cause. If the Pastor is preaching God’s word without compromise, the believer should consider Psalm 119:165 before making such a move! He should ask himself, “Is what the Pastor saying in God’s word?”  If yes, then he  should seek out why he’s offended by it. God may be wanting to teach him something.  Rather than buck at the preaching, he should ask the Lord for wisdom (James 1:5)!

Psalm 119:165 says one will have great peace when one loves His word more than one’s self. Why are we so offended by the preaching? Sometimes it’s because it’s something that has hit home – a pet sin, if you will, that we just do not want to give up. One family left our church because the Pastor spoke against Little League! The games and practices were always during church services and he said parents are teaching children that sports are more important than being at church. This family had not yet signed their child up for Little League, but because the preaching interfered with their plans, that was enough for them and they left! Had the parents loved God’s word more than life itself, they would have not been offended by the preaching but, instead, would have heeded the warning. How sad indeed! :-(

There are so many obstacles in our lives – some placed there by Satan and others are a result of our own sin. Each time we are annoyed with the preaching, we cause our hearts to become calloused. Once the callous thickens, we spend less time in the word of God and more time with people who agree with our sin. Satan would love nothing better than to eat us alive. How did Jesus deal with the temptations brought before Him in Matthew Chapter 4?  Three times Satan tried to tempt Him and three times Jesus answered, “It is written…”! If Jesus Christ, our Lord, used Scripture to fight the Devil’s attacks, how much more should we? Jesus was teaching us by example here!

Is it any wonder that people are easily offended these days?  They aren’t in the word of God; well, maybe on Sundays. Therefore, they are not equipped with its armour (Ephesians 6:13). I don’t know who penned this phrase, “The Bible will keep you from sin and sin will keep you from the Bible.”  What a great truth this is! (Psalm 119:11) The more a Christian reads, learns and applies God’s word to his life, the more he will love it – the closer he will grow to his God. It’s simple truth!

Great peace have they that love thy law: and nothing shall offend them. The more we have been fed during our private time with God, the less the preaching will offend us. And if the preaching does bothers us, we will go home and search the Scriptures (Acts 17:11) and ask the Holy Spirit to teach us (James 1:5).

Reflections in Psalms – Day 67 – Quicken Me!

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Psalm 119:153-160

RESH
153 Consider mine affliction, and deliver me: for I do not forget thy law.

154 Plead my cause, and deliver me: quicken me according to thy word.

155 Salvation is far from the wicked: for they seek not thy statutes.

156 Great are thy tender mercies, O Lord: quicken me according to thy judgments.

157 Many are my persecutors and mine enemies; yet do I not decline from thy testimonies.

158 I beheld the transgressors, and was grieved; because they kept not thy word.

159 Consider how I love thy precepts: quicken me, O Lord, according to thy lovingkindness.

160 Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth for ever.

Journaling:

1. Find all the things the Bible will do for you
2. Find the things you are suppose to do with your Bible
3. Find the things the Bible is likened to

Today’s verses were a tremendous blessing to me.  I noticed a pattern in these eight verses! Three times the Psalmist asks God to quicken him! I do believe that this is worth looking into! :-)

Just what does this word quicken mean? Noah Webster’s 1828 Dictionary defines it as:

To revive; to cheer; to reinvigorate; to refresh by new supplies of comfort or grace. Ps. 119.

Don’t you just love this? I know that I was quickened just by reading the definition!

The Psalmist asks God to quicken him three different times:

1. Quicken me according to thy word – Revive me, cheer me, reinvigorate me, refresh me! Take a moment to read:

Lamentations 3:21-25 This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. 22 It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23 They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. 24 The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. 25 The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.

2. Quicken me according to thy judgments – Our Heavenly Father sees us for who we really are! He knows every weakness and sin and, therefore, He gives us His word to correct us and teach us.  (Hebrews 4:12, II Timothy 3:16, John 14:16-17, John 14:26)

3. Quicken me according to thy lovingkindness – Notice how these two words are combined as one?  I don’t believe that this is a coincidence.  This word is found 26 times in Psalms, Jeremiah and Hosea combined:

Psalm 17:7, Psalm 26:3, Psalm 36:7, Psalm 36:10, Psalm 40:10, Psalm 40:11, Psalm 42:8, Psalm 48:9, Psalm 51:1, Psalm 63:3, Psalm 69:16, Psalm 88:11, Psalm 89:33, Psalm 92:2, Psalm 103:4, Psalm 107:43, Psalm 119:88, Psalm 119:149, Psalm 119:159, Psalm 138:2, Psalm 143:8, Jeremiah 9:24, Jeremiah 16:5, Jeremiah 31:3, Jeremiah 32:18, Hosea 2:19

Take the time to read each one.  Each time, it is referring to God and to His grace, mercy and salvation!  Does this not cause you to jump for joy? Does this not quicken you?

There is none who can have this same lovingkindness as God.  It is a word that belongs to Him alone, in my opinion.  None other can show grace and mercy as our God can!  None other can provide salvation as Christ can (Acts 4:12). He is our only hope!  Our Father loves us so much that by His mercy we are not consumed (Lamentations 3:22).  Our Father loves us so much that by His grace we are saved (Ephesians 2:8-9)!

The Psalmist had been made alive through God’s word – he found grace and salvation there – he found mercy there – he found joy and encouragement there! How can one find this unless one is certain he has God’s true word? Our King James Bible contains the pure, preserved and inspired word of God (Psalm 12:6-7)! Therefore, we, too, can experience the very essence of the Psalmist’s joy today!  Glory! :-)

Reflections in Psalms – Day 66 – In the Night Hours

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Psalm 119:145-152

KOPH
145 I cried with my whole heart; hear me, O Lord: I will keep thy statutes.
146 I cried unto thee; save me, and I shall keep thy testimonies.
147 I prevented the dawning of the morning, and cried: I hoped in thy word.
148 Mine eyes prevent the night watches, that I might meditate in thy word.
149 Hear my voice according unto thy lovingkindness: O Lord, quicken me according to thy judgment.
150 They draw nigh that follow after mischief: they are far from thy law.
151 Thou art near, O Lord; and all thy commandments are truth.
152 Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old that thou hast founded them for ever.

Journaling:
1. Find all the things the Bible will do for you
2. Find the things you are suppose to do with your Bible
3. Find the things the Bible is likened to

Sleeplessness!  Oyyyy!  How many times have I fought this night after night!  I know I’m not alone because I see countless sleep aids on the shelves at my local pharmacy. However, there’s something to be said about sleeplessness!  The Christian really ought to take a different look at it.  Instead of viewing sleeplessness as a hardship, let’s view it from another angle.  Could it be that God is trying to get our attention?

How many times have we ignored this God-given opportunity and opted to watch television instead – or even read a book! In Psalm 63:6, David meditates on God’s word as he lays in his bed. We see it here in today’s text as well. Psalm 119:147-148 reveal the Psalmist’s battle with sleeplessness and how he dealt with it.

What a great opportunity for God to get our attention. It’s really the only time of day where there aren’t any of life’s distractions. I use to do my Bible reading at bedtime because I was a “night person” and that was my favorite way to unwind from the day’s events. Then my children came along and so did exhaustion: I found myself crawling into bed for that much needed sleep! :-) I had to rearrange my time with the Lord to the early hours of the morning before the children awoke. This is when He taught me that my mornings were my best time to spend with Him.

David not only meditated on God’s words while he was laying down in bed but he also got up early to meet with his Lord (Psalm 63:1).There’s something to be said about getting up early before everyone else. The house is still and the day’s events have not yet begun. I have peace and quiet, as well as time to think before the hustle bustle begins. When I would wait until later, I felt like a sprinter at the starting line: the gun would go off and there I went! Whoosh! My time with the Lord was a blur and I got out of it what I put into it!  I didn’t remember what He had tried to teach me – how sad is that?! When I began to get up before the rest of my family, I discovered a peaceful time which gave me a chance to actually think about what I was reading. I was allowing the Holy Spirit of God to speak to me through His word AND I was carrying it with me the rest of the day!  I could apply what God had taught me.

O.K., so back to topic: why are the night hours so important during those sleepless times? I suppose I’m no different than most Christians who allot a certain amount of time for my devotional time and study time. But what about those times that God wants to teach me something more than that? I suppose I could liken it to college courses. Not all courses have the same amount of credit hours, right? Some take longer than others because of the subject matter. It’s the same way with my time with the Lord. Not all His lessons for me can be condensed into my “allotted” time! He may have more for me and I will fail to glean what I need if I cut my time with Him short! The night hours give the Lord our undivided attention – everyone is in bed and our day has ended and the next has not yet begun. Granted we are losing precious sleep. However, we couldn’t sleep anyway, right? And furthermore, can’t God keep us awake during the day even though we only got a few hours of sleep?  Of course He can!

This is our time with our Heavenly Father – this is a time that He has allowed and we can only benefit from it! The Psalmist used his time to cry and pour his heart out to the Lord. Maybe he had a repentant heart over a certain sin; maybe he was afraid of his enemies; maybe the latter was a result of the former. Whatever his reasons were to be crying, he knew that he would find solace in God’s word (Psalm 119:151-152). His confidence did not yield disappointment but quite the opposite! He knew that God’s word was everlasting and he could depend on it! He walked away encouraged by the Creator of the universe – the One who knew him best and knew how to encourage him (Lamentations 3:21-23)!

The next time you are awakened in the middle of the night, don’t squander those precious moments in front of the television! Instead, get up and ask the Lord if He is the one who awakened you – then open your Bible and let Him speak to you!

Reflections in Psalms – Day 65 – Righteousness

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Psalm 119:137-144

TZADDI
137 Righteous art thou, O Lord, and upright are thy judgments.
138 Thy testimonies that thou hast commanded are righteous and very faithful.
139 My zeal hath consumed me, because mine enemies have forgotten thy words.
140 Thy word is very pure: therefore thy servant loveth it.
141 I am small and despised: yet do not I forget thy precepts.
142 Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and thy law is the truth.
143 Trouble and anguish have taken hold on me: yet thy commandments are my delights.
144 The righteousness of thy testimonies is everlasting: give me understanding, and I shall live.

Journaling:
1. Find all the things the Bible will do for you
2. Find the things you are suppose to do with your Bible
3. Find the things the Bible is likened to

Today’s text reveals a Psalmist with an attitude of gratitude toward God’s word, in my opinion. It’s as if he prepared his heart and he was ready to receive the day’s instruction (Psalm 119:137-38). What a great start to our devotional time. God used these two verses to prepare my heart! I like to pray and sing a hymn just before starting to read or write.  My heart is made ready – no matter what issues of the day are on my mind – I’m now ready to hear from the Lord.

We’re not just reading any book. We have the holy word of God before us. How great is that? We are so blessed to have an opportunity to sit down any time we want to and hear from our Heavenly Father! As if that isn’t enough, His word will never mislead us or take us down a path of sinfulness (Psalm 119:140). The Psalmist recognized this and expressed his love for it! He understood that as along as he stayed in God’s word, he would be receiving righteous truth (Psalm 119:142)!

No matter what the situation is in our lives, we know that God is there ready to help us, to teach us and to guide us! The Psalmist recognized this in his own life and he knew where to go for help. Read Psalm 119:43 – even though trouble and anguish were all around him, he was able to say: “yet thy commandments are my delights”!

Sadly, Christians today do not realize the power they have in their Bible!  Within its pages are direction, comfort, instruction, correction, etc. All breathed by a holy and righteous God (2 Peter 1:21)!  This is no ordinary book, dear friend! Our King James Bible is God’s word for us in our very own language! How merciful is that? How easy is that? We do not have to rely on the Hebrew or Greek – we have our very own English copy and God promises to reveal to us exactly what He wants to teach us (John 14:26)! To top it off, the word of God is living! It’s not archaic at all, but it is new and fresh each time we open it and read it (Lamentations 3:21-23)! What other book can do that?  None!

The Psalmist closes this segment with the cherry on top of the sundae! Psalm 119:144 “The righteousness of thy testimonies is everlasting: give me understanding, and I shall live. God’s words will never expire! They are everlasting! Why would anyone want to take a man’s word when he can have God’s word, which is everlasting?! Furthermore, what promise of man can guarantee you life everlasting? God’s word promises eternal life! On a side note, a quick search for the words ‘eternal life’ (in my King James Bible), revealed that it appears in 30 verses! It must be an important message then! (John 3:14-21) Is it any wonder that Satan works so hard to keep the Christian from reading the Bible?

What more can we ask for? God’s word provides so much to the believer! Is it any wonder that Jesus said it is to be our very food (Luke 4:4)? How precious is God’s word to you?

Reflections in Psalms – Day 64 – An Education

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Psalm 119:129-136

PE
129 Thy testimonies are wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them.
130 The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.
131 I opened my mouth, and panted: for I longed for thy commandments.
132 Look thou upon me, and be merciful unto me, as thou usest to do unto those that love thy name.
133 Order my steps in thy word: and let not any iniquity have dominion over me.
134 Deliver me from the oppression of man: so will I keep thy precepts.
135 Make thy face to shine upon thy servant; and teach me thy statutes.
136 Rivers of waters run down mine eyes, because they keep not thy law.

Journaling:

1. Find all the things the Bible will do for you
2. Find the things you are suppose to do with your Bible
3. Find the things the Bible is likened to

Today’s text just jumped right out to me! It’s as if it shows the process of a Parent (God, our Father) educating His child (you and me). Go ahead and re-read these eight verses with that concept in mind and I believe you will see where I will be going with today’s devotional. :-)

I get up in the morning and sit down with my Bible (my precious letters from God) sitting in front of me. I’m eagerly searching His word to find my golden nugget of the day (Psalm 119:127)!  What will today’s golden nugget be?  Will it be a word of encouragement to uplift me?  Will it point to a sin for which my Father wants me to repent and forsake?  Or, possibly, it could be a warning to prepare me for something in the future (Psalm 119:105)? Oh how blessed the child of God is to have His precious word!  We should thirst after it and long for Him to communicate to us (Psalm 119:129)!

As I sit reading, I eagerly await to see the light that He is about to shine on a particular verse (Psalm 119:130). “What is it, Lord? I want to understand (James 1:5) so please show me.  Give me the water from Thy fountain this day for I’m thirsting for it!” As I continue to read, the light shines on an area that I know my Father wants changed. Oh how great is His mercy unto me!  He gently molds me into the child He wishes me to become (Romans 9:21) – He is molding me to be the likeness of His Son (Romans 6:4).  On this earth, I look like my earthly father and have my mother’s eyes.  My Heavenly Father is molding me to look like His Son by shining the light from His word onto my life! :-)  What a beautiful picture, indeed!

As I take my golden nugget of the day, I desire to apply it to my spiritual walk (Psalm 119:133). The Lord’s word lights my way throughout the day.  I am able to clearly recognize when I’m going the wrong way. I asked for His guidance before I finished my time with Him, therefore, I know He is faithful and will order my steps (Psalm 119:134).

If I take my eyes off that precious light along the way, I will most certainly fall (Psalm 119:135). How can I hurt my Father this way? His word has brought me under conviction and caused this sinner to repent! When was the last time I cried a river of tears over my sin as the Psalmist did?  I truly believe that the closer we get to the heart of our Father through His word, the more grieved we are when we sin against Him!

Reflections in Psalms – Day 63 – Standing Firm

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Psalm 119:121-128

AIN
121 I have done judgment and justice: leave me not to mine oppressors.
122 Be surety for thy servant for good: let not the proud oppress me.
123 Mine eyes fail for thy salvation, and for the word of thy righteousness.
124 Deal with thy servant according unto thy mercy, and teach me thy statutes.
125 I am thy servant; give me understanding, that I may know thy testimonies.
126 It is time for thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void thy law.
127 Therefore I love thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold.
128 Therefore I esteem all thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.

Journaling:

1. Find all the things the Bible will do for you
2. Find the things you are suppose to do with your Bible
3. Find the things the Bible is likened to

Standing up for what is in alignment with God’s word is not always easy.  I can sense the frustration expressed by the Psalmist in these next eight verses. Here in Psalm 119:121, he tells the Lord how he has done what is right in His sight and he pleads that God would not allow his enemies to overcome him.  So many times we do what we know to be right but we create waves and ruffle some feathers in the process.  It’s never easy taking a stand for what is righteous!  In fact, it is then that we will receive persecution.  Many a Christian mouth has been silenced for fear of the repercussions from those who hate God’s word! To submit to this is cowardly! We are no better than Peter (Matthew 26:74) when he denied knowing Christ!  Oh what a wicked world we would change if Christians would be bolder in speaking out for what is right!

I can almost hear the Psalmist (Psalm 119:122) as he pleads to God in the night hours: “Lord, I know that what I have to do is the right thing in this situation and I know that those who oppose me will create a major stink over this! Please let me be secure (safe) in Your word as I stand for what is right.”  He pleaded his cause so much that he couldn’t even see straight (Psalm 119:123)!  ”I’ve cried and searched my Bible in the wee hours of the night, to the point where I can’t see straight, Lord!  If I’m wrong, show me – deal with me mercifully if I am, and show me Your will so I can do that which is right! (Psalm 119:124) And Lord, I’m your child so please give me understanding in this situation as I read Your word! (Psalm 119:125).  I want to do what is right!”  Can’t you just hear him?

What a prayer!  How many times have I personally prayed a similar prayer in time of crisis!!?? Horrible sins are going on all around me! But when I speak up for what is right, I’m told I’m judgmental or legalistic. Read Psalm 119:126 as the Psalmist experiences the same thing. I can’t tell you how many times I have prayed this verse (in my own words) when I see the injustices of abortion and sodomy in our land! “Lord, please judge these wicked, wicked sins and purge our land. Heal our land, Lord! These people do not care a thing about Your word and we’re seeing the effects of their sin through your judgments!” The Psalmist’s enemies didn’t take God’s laws seriously back then either!

The last two verses reflect a heart that has found peace after long sleepless hours begging God for His guidance. I love when the Lord puts a verse right in front of my eyes and I’m covered like a warm blanket by His Spirit as He gives me the answers I’ve been searching for! Psalm 119:127-128 reveal that the Psalmist got exactly what he needed from his time in the word! So much so, he compares it to fine gold – priceless! There can be no price placed when God gives peace and comfort! The joy that comes in the morning after a night of tears and pleading is a wonderful reward for our search! (Psalm 30:11) The enemy can be all around us but we can be safe in God’s shelter!

You can be certain that you will encounter much persecution when you stand on God’s word! The separated Christian will not only suffer at the hand of the unsaved but will also suffer at the hand of believers who have been led astray by wrong doctrine. Let’s take abortion, for example. A sad statistic is found at http://abortionno.org:

Women identifying themselves as Protestants obtain 37.4% of all abortions in the U.S.; Catholic women account for 31.3%, Jewish women account for 1.3%, and women with no religious affiliation obtain 23.7% of all abortions. 18% of all abortions are performed on women who identify themselves as ‘Born-again/Evangelical’.

Has this sickened you? It ought to! What a horrible testimony to the Lord, Jesus Christ! I can’t believe that true born-again believers would have an abortion. If a woman believes herself to be saved and does have an abortion, I think she should seriously look to God’s word and reevaluate her profession of faith. If she is saved, repentance is surely needed! Nonetheless, the world sees these statistics as fact as it relates to abortions by born-again believers! The smear on Christ’s name is just horrible!!! When confronting women about abortion, whether in person or by way of the Internet, we are criticized, called names, and are verbally abused. How can this be so? A murderous act has been performed because the child is a mere inconvenient consequence!  Wake up, Christian! Speak up!

We must stand on what is right, as did the Psalmist in today’s text! We must seek the Lord’s guidance and direction in His word when we need to know what to do in His name. When was the last time you can say you experienced Psalm 119:123?  God will give us wisdom if we ask Him for it (James 1:5).

Stand firm, Christian; the Lord is nigh!  Our time is short!

Reflections in Psalms – Day 62 – Compromise

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Psalm 119:113-120

SAMECH
113 I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love.
114 Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.
115 Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.
116 Uphold me according unto thy word, that I may live: and let me not be ashamed of my hope.
117 Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe: and I will have respect unto thy statutes continually.
118 Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for their deceit is falsehood.
119 Thou puttest away all the wicked of the earth like dross: therefore I love thy testimonies.
120 My flesh trembleth for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments.


Journaling:

1. Find all the things the Bible will do for you
2. Find the things you are suppose to do with your Bible
3. Find the things the Bible is likened to

People, today, are not afraid of most anything, let alone God’s judgment! To them, God is a “figure head” and a religious thought – “He doesn’t really exist, does He”? But just in case, they will muster up some “fire insurance” to hopefully keep them from going to Hell. And, really now, this loving God would never cast anyone into Hell, would He? This is pretty much the mentality of the unsaved individual. There are also those who just do not believe there is a God, let alone fear Him.  Why reverence/fear something you don’t believe in?  In fact, the average person doesn’t fear law enforcement officers like they did just 30-40 years ago. The respect and fear for authority is almost a thing of the past.

I’m not going to cover Hell or God’s judgment on the unsaved world in today’s post. However, I merely wanted to emphasize how little today’s born-again believer trembles for fear of God and His judgments, let alone the unsaved world. If the believer did, there would be more righteous living going on, wouldn’t there? There would be a separated people making an impact on the world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, not only in word but in their testimony!  What happened to being able to tell someone was a Christian because they lived like a Christian?

On the most part, today’s Christian is worldly. He is content to enjoy the world’s pleasures and indulge, all under the guise of Christian liberty. This breaks my heart because this was never practiced by Jesus Christ, or His disciples. In fact, they were first named “Christians” in Antioch.  We can read about this in Acts 11.  In fact, why not take a moment to read that Chapter and see why they were named this?  Does this definition resemble your Christian walk?  The Christians at Antioch were making an impact on their city!  People’s lives were changing because of them!  Are people’s lives changing because of you?

Who should we be patterning our lives after? Should we be listening to famous preachers of today? Should we pattern our lives according to our Pastor? What happens when that preacher goes astray? Our pattern is torn – so where do we go now?  Granted, the Apostle Paul told his followers to do as he did in I Corinthians 11:1, but that statement was followed by: “even as I also am of Christ.” He wasn’t telling people to have blind faith in a preacher but to follow that preacher IF “he is of Christ.”  How can one be certain their Pastor is following after Christ?  The Holy Spirit, who resides within you, will show you through the word of God, friend!  What you hear from the pulpit will match what is in your Bible!

Better yet, rather than looking to man for answers, why not look to Jesus Christ? His walk here on earth was perfect, was it not? He led a sinless life, did He not? His word contains truth, does it not? Then why in the world would you want to pattern your Christian walk according to someone who does not pattern his life to Christ? I have personally seen the pastor of a church drinking a beer and speaking vulgar slang words! Is this the type of pastor that patterns his life to Christ?  Is this the type of pastor who should be leading other Christians?  This is not Christian liberty, my friend.  NO WHERE in Scripture is there an account of any disciple (after Christ’s Ascension) getting tipsy and using the Lord’s name in vain or vulgar language.  There is, however, an account of a man and his wife lying and struck down dead because of it!

The Lord Jesus Christ calls us to be different! Titus 2:14 and I Peter 2:9 say we are to be a peculiar people. That word means different or set apart to Him.  Our Saviour gave Himself for us, redeemed us from ALL iniquity, and purified us unto Himself so that we would be zealous of GOOD works and we would show forth the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvelous light! Does that sound like Christians who would want to cuss, drink, compromise God’s word – all in the name of Christian liberty? Galatians 5:1 speaks of a Christian’s liberty.  However, this liberty is freedom from the yoke of bondage of the Law. Christ sets us free to experience true freedom and liberty – freedom from the Law that even the Jews could not keep – a freedom from knowing that nothing we do can measure up to God.  Our liberty is in Jesus Christ because He paid it all!  He did not give us liberty to act like the world!  His liberty is in the ability to say no to sin!  He gave us a new life, II Corinthians 5:17, which gives us freedom from such things!

We are warned in God’s word that there are false teachers in our midst who want to lead those tender new Christians and weak Christians astray. In fact, they are so cunning that they even lead the “seasoned” Christian astray as well (II Peter 2:1-3).  How can one recognize a false teacher?  Get in the word of God, Christian!  The more you read it, the more you will be able to recognize a fraud when you hear one!  The expert in counterfeit money doesn’t study the counterfeit bills; he studies the real thing in order to recognize the fake!  Become an expert at recognizing counterfeit preachers!

How does one prevent being led astray? Do not follow man but follow after the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the only one who has led a sinless life and is the only one who can lead us in the paths of righteousness. He has called us to lead separated lives – not compromise!  Take a moment to read:  II Corinthians 6:14-17, I Thessalonians 5:22, II Thessalonians 3:13-15, II Thessalonians 3:6, II Timothy 3:10-14, Ephesians 5:11-18.

Is it any wonder why the Psalmist kept turning to God’s word? He encountered the enemy at every turn but yet he kept strong in the word of God! Why? The Psalmist feared God’s judgment more than his enemy, that’s why. So where does that put us? Do we tremble at the thought of God’s judgment as it relates to our compromise? If we did, we would not be compromising but would be living that “peculiar” life that Christ called us to live. We would not be trying to cover our sin under the title, “Christian liberty.”  I’m led to believe that “Christian Liberty” is the new definition for compromise!  If you do drink alcohol, Christian, and say you’re not drinking to the point of drunkeness (which you know is spoken evil of in the word), what about your brother in Christ?  What if your brother in Christ sees you having a fun time, will he know if you’re having wholesome fun or will he think you just had a few drinks? This analogy can be applied to many areas of our life!

Study the word of God, Christian, before you pattern your life after what the world considers O.K.!  It’s not them you will be standing before when you die!

Reflections in Psalms – Day 61 – Lighthouse

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Psalm 119:105-112

NUN
105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
106 I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments.
107 I am afflicted very much: quicken me, O Lord, according unto thy word.
108 Accept, I beseech thee, the freewill offerings of my mouth, O Lord, and teach me thy judgments.
109 My soul is continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law.
110 The wicked have laid a snare for me: yet I erred not from thy precepts.
111 Thy testimonies have I taken as an heritage for ever: for they are the rejoicing of my heart.
112 I have inclined mine heart to perform thy statutes alway, even unto the end.

Journaling:

1. Find all the things the Bible will do for you
2. Find the things you are suppose to do with your Bible
3. Find the things the Bible is likened to

Psalm 119:105 is probably one of the most memorized Bible verses there is.  Why? Because this verse is packed with insight and encouragement.  God’s word, when read and heeded, is likened to a lamp that lights a man’s way in a dark and evil world.

A beautiful depiction of today’s text is Heceta Head Lighthouse (pictured above) in Florence, Oregon. I have the privilege of living about ten miles from this most beautiful piece of architecture!  I’ve visited it countless times and learned some interesting facts about its history.  Its “positioning” along the mountain side is unique.  So much so, it is known to be the most photographed lighthouse in the United States.  Notice how far the Lighthouse Keeper’s dwelling is from the lighthouse.  There are no paved roads leading to the lighthouse, even today.  It is a well trodden pathway.

Before electricity, Heceta Head Lighthouse was powered by candlelight and kerosene fuel. Supplies had to be carried from the road at sea level all the way to the Keeper’s house for storage, then eventually to the lighthouse (the total hike is about half a mile)! The Lighthouse Keeper had to walk uphill on a winding path from his house (located on the far right of the picture), all the way up to the lighthouse.  It was not a straight shot, nor was it a level path at that.  There are obstacles on the pathway, such as large roots protruding through the ground from beautiful old trees. One can easily trip and stumble over these roots without light.

Every three to four hours, the Assistant Lighthouse Keeper had to make the trek up the winding mountain path with just the light from his lantern. Many times I have walked that pathway – there are no guardrails to keep one from falling off that steep edge! Picture in your mind’s eye as the Keeper’s lantern lights up his way in a very dark place to keep him from stumbling – from straying off course – from falling off the edge! He would never leave home without his lantern as it would be too costly – yes, even deadly!  Even to this day, there are no street lamps to cast light onto that pathway in the dark of night.

Anyone who has been in a forest after nightfall can tell you that it is pitch dark. Without the moon to cast some light, one cannot walk ten feet without stumbling. One can’t even see the hand in front of his face!  Isn’t that a beautiful depiction of what God’s word does for the believer? When we read God’s word, and apply the wisdom that the Holy Spirit is trying to teach us, it is likened to a lamp that warns us of impending troubles (think of the end times, for example, and what the Bible teaches the believer). Revelation 1:3 promises a blessing for those who read and understand the word!  The perfect provider of light, our God, is in charge of lighting our way when we cannot see for ourselves.  I John 1:5, James 1:17 and John 8:12 are wonderful verses on this topic! This same God is also called Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, and the Prince of Peace!!!  Our future is as dark to us as that pathway without a lantern. Ah, but we have the light of the word of God, which is promised to be a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path!

Not only does the word light our way and direct us for the upcoming end times, it also shows us how to live our lives for the Lord Jesus Christ. The light of the word shines on our sin and convicts the Christian so he can repent and forsake that sin!  There are accounts of liars who have met their death in Acts 5.  In this beloved Book, there are instructions on how to run a church. The Bible also instructs us in what the role of each family member is and how the husband is the head. This blessed lamp, the Holy Bible, lights the way of the Christian and guides him through every avenue of life. Yes, tumultuous times are forthcoming, for prophecy tells us so, as we are living in the end times. However, the believer can rest assured that none of it happens without God’s hand upon it.

Today’s text is also a beautiful picture of how God does not leave His child in the dark! He is our lighthouse, pointing the way, if you will, and promises to have answers for every area of our lives, no matter how dark and dismal those times may be! What a beautiful testimony to the Lord when a Christian is going through severe testing but that Christian is at peace!  This Christian’s resolve is in exact proportion to the time he spent in the word of God! How else can one explain the peace and comfort Christian parents receives as they grieve the loss of their child? How else can one explain the sweet peace given to the Christian during extreme financial troubles?  That Christian does not know his future be he knows Who holds his future!

The child of God is precious in His sight. God showed us how much so in Psalm 8:4-6! God visits His children (through the work of Christ and His Holy Spirit). He has crowned us with glory and honour and He has made man to have dominion over everything He created! That, my friend, shows me how special I am to the King of Glory!

The rest of the verses, Psalm 119:106-112, seem to be the trickling effects of verse 105. The Psalmist lists his difficulties and then proclaims how God’s word has brought him through them all!  Is it any wonder that God’s words were precious to him?

Question: Are you in the dark about what to do in a certain matter in your life? Answer: Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Question: Do you wonder if you should marry a certain person? Answer: Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Question: Are you afraid of what tomorrow may bring? Answer: Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Question: Where will you spend eternity? Answer:  Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path!

God has given us a “lighthouse” called the King James Bible, my friend. God wants it to be a lamp unto your feet, and a light unto your path; that is its purpose!  So why not seek God’s will within its pages?  He promises to be a lamp unto your feet, and a light unto your path!

Reflections in Psalms – Day 60 – Wisdom

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Psalm 119:97-104

MEM
97 O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day.
98 Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.
99 I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation.
100 I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.
101 I have refrained my feet from every evil way, that I might keep thy word.
102 I have not departed from thy judgments: for thou hast taught me.
103 How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth!
104 Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.

Journaling:

1. Find all the things the Bible will do for you
2. Find the things you are suppose to do with your Bible
3. Find the things the Bible is likened to

These verses are extremely controversial, aren’t they? Many “church” leaders tell their people that only they can interpret the Scriptures.  I came out of such a religion (Roman Catholicism).  Granted, the Catholic Church has backed down a bit and now allows its members to read the Bible, but this was not always the case.  But their permission comes with a “warning” that the layman’s interpretation may be wrong so they must double check with their priest to be certain.

This is quite different from what today’s verses state! Let me ask you, dear reader, a question.  Is God’s word true or isn’t it?  If you have not read yesterday’s devotional, take a moment to read it now before continuing then click on “Back” on your Browser.  John 17:17 says that God’s word is truth.  Jesus spoke these words and, furthermore, He states that the word sanctifies us – it sets us apart, but from whom or what?

The Psalmist confirms in Psalm 119:98-100 that by reading God’s word, and meditating on it, he can be wiser than his enemies, even his teachers and the “ancients” (his forefathers). These same “church” leaders will tell you that the “fundies” (fundamentalists) are incorrectly interpreting the Scriptures.  Others claim that we cannot have God’s word today because the “original autographs” are not here any longer. However, the word says in 2 Peter 1:20-21 that NO scripture is of ANY private interpretation.  Psalm 12:6-7 promises us that the word is preserved by God.  It is the Holy Spirit of God that impressed upon holy men as to what to write down.  To deny this truth is to deny the power of God!

We can and we do have the ability to read God’s word, as a born-again Christian, and understand what we are reading without needing anyone to interpret it for us!  Why? Because the Holy Spirit of God resides within us and interprets to us what the words mean.  Look at James 1:5!  We don’t need to get our wisdom from man: In fact, man’s wisdom is foolishness to God – I Corinthians 3:19.  I will probably receive a few comments on this post from precious, deceived Roman Catholics, asking how I can account for so many different interpretations of the same verse by Christians. Let me answer these comments right here and now. Let’s look at the following passage and you will see how CLEAR God makes it for us:

~I Corinthians 2:10-16 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. 11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. 12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. 16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.

Who reveals the word of God to us?  I Corinthians 2:10 says that God, the Holy Spirit does. Furthermore, the Holy Spirit searches the deep things of God because man cannot do so (1 Corinthians 2:11).  Paul continues to tell us that the born-again Christian does not have the spirit of the world any longer but the spirit, which is of God (HIS Holy Spirit). Because we have His Holy Spirit living within us, I Corinthians 2:12 continues to say that He will give to us the wisdom – He will explain to us exactly what He meant. Furthermore, I Corinthians 2:13 says that He will teach us what we need to know so we can compare spiritual things with spiritual! Lastly, dear friend, 1 Corinthians 2:14 explains why there are so many different interpretations. The ones who interpret differently are considered “natural man” by Paul. The natural man, the unsaved man, cannot receive the things of the Holy Spirit! The Bible will sound foolish to them. Christ, through His precious Holy Spirit teaches the born-again Christian and gives us the mind of Christ. If you step into a church filled with true born-again Christians, you will hear the same interpretation of Scripture amongst them. It is only in the world that the Bible is misinterpreted. Why? Because it is being interpreted by those who do not possess the Holy Spirit – the unsaved!

God is the one who gives wisdom to His child (James 1:5).  He promises to give ample wisdom to those who seek it.  Wisdom comes from fearing (reverencing) God.  Read: Psalm 111:10, Proverbs 1:7, and Proverbs 9:10.  When one fears God, he recognizes that he is a sinner in need of repentance unto salvation.  At the moment that sinner recognizes his sinfulness and need for Christ, he begins to receive wisdom.  That wisdom applied results unto salvation and, then, understanding followed.  Read Job 28:28.  Once we are saved, we run away from evil – that is our desire as I Peter 3:10-12 instructs.  Today’s “supposed Christian” mingles with the world and does not run away from evil.  That is why they cannot understand the Scriptures.  First off, they are not truly born again as II Corinthians 5:17 plainly explains.  That is the key to living a separated life unto Christ.  How can a Christian live by I Peter 1:16 except he have the Holy Spirit residing in him?  We are blessed with the ability and power to say “No!” to sin.  We have the ability to quote Scripture when in the midst of temptation and be able to overcome it (I Corinthians 10:13).

God loves His child and provides us with clear teaching as to how to find Him, receive Him, and to follow Him!  Any author can tell you that he/she is the best one to interpret their work because they wrote it.  Why, then, would God leave us at the mercy of someone else’s interpretation of His word?

Praise His holy name!!

Reflections in Psalms – Day 59 – Settled

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Psalm 119:89-96

LAMED
89 For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.
90 Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth.
91 They continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all are thy servants.
92 Unless thy law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction.
93 I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me.
94 I am thine, save me; for I have sought thy precepts.
95 The wicked have waited for me to destroy me: but I will consider thy testimonies.
96 I have seen an end of all perfection: but thy commandment is exceeding broad.

Journaling:

1. Find all the things the Bible will do for you
2. Find the things you are suppose to do with your Bible
3. Find the things the Bible is likened to

The Psalmist opens this next section of Psalm 119 with an emphatic verse.  He has complete and unshakable confidence in his statement.  Along with Psalm 12:6-7, these verses support the fact that God can and did preserve His word throughout the ages!

God does not preserve His word for a period of time; nor is His word preserved through the capability of man or his intelligence! God’s word is settled in heaven (Psalm 119:89).  I see several things, just in this one verse:

  1. Who:  Whose word is referenced in Psalm 119:89?  Thy word – God’s word, not man’s.  The Devil’s desire is to corrupt the word of God for several reasons: to remove the deity of Jesus Christ and, therefore, so man cannot find salvation, and so he (the Devil) can take God’s place.  The only time Lucifer is mentioned in the Bible is in Isaiah 14:12.  But don’t go finding his name in the NIV, NASB, ESV, etc.  It can only be found in the King James Bible!  Why?  Because the Devil, Lucifer, does not want man kind knowing the truth about him or about Jesus Christ, the Saviour.  If the Devil can place doubt in man’s mind about the inspired and preserved word of God, he has succeeded already.  He removed his name from Isaiah 14:12 and replaced it with “morning star,” which is a name for Jesus Christ (Revelation 22:16).  Ask yourself, Christian, “Who stands to gain from changing God’s word?” Satan stands to gain – and he has succeed in producing over 200 different versions of the Bible.  Is it any wonder the world is falling apart at the seams?!  Is it any wonder that the world doesn’t think God’s word exists today?
  2. What:  What is spoken of in this verse?  God’s word is what is settled.  God’s word is what shows man his sin.  God’s word is what leads man to salvation. God’s word speaks about His Blessed Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.  Psalm 12:6-8 give us a clearer picture about the purity and eternality of God’s word and what happens to the “scholars” who change His word:(6) The words of the Lord are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. (7) Thou shalt keep them, O Lord, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever. (8) The wicked walk on every side, when the vilest men are exalted. God’s word is perfect. He has promised to preserve those words for us for ever!  It’s settled! The men who are responsible for the corrupt translations have done a horrible act. They have followed their father, the Devil, and have taken down many souls with them. Oh the price they will pay throughout eternity for changing God’s word! It is a frightening thing to be in the hands of an angry God: ~Revelation 22:18-19 For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: 19 And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.  No author on earth would appreciate someone else changing their writing.  In fact, there are laws against it and it is called plagiarism!
  3. Where:  Where is God’s word settled?  Heaven!  Heaven is the perfect dwelling place.  No sin can enter Heaven.  No corruption can enter Heaven. God’s plans for mankind were spoken, written and settled – PERIOD.  Once a court of law in our land reaches a settlement in a trial, it cannot be changed.  It is final! This is what the word means.  It’s not rocket science and even a child can understand it.
  4. When: How long is God’s word settled? FOR EVER! It will not change – it cannot be changed. The Devil has changed it through the years by using his minions. However, God’s word is settled forever and we know Who will win in the end! Ignorant man, despite his knowledge and Ph.D.’s, has been the puppet of the all-time Deceiver, the Father of Lies, Satan! But the Victor is Jesus Christ, Lord of Lords and King of Kings! He preserved His words for us through the uncorrupted King James Bible. We do have God’s word in the English language. All others are heretical attempts to discredit the blood of Christ, His virgin birth, His deity, and His triumpant return!
  5. For How Long: Psalm 119:90-91 give us an answer!  God is faithful – His word is faithful – His promises are for ever!  The faithfulness of His word continues to ALL generations (verse 90) and they continue according to His word!

God’s word existed before the creation of all things. His word spoke everything into existence. His word is as much with us today as much as it was with people living before, during and after Christ!  How strange it is that people can believe that God created all things in the universe yet He is not able to keep His word from corruption!  You limit God by saying such things!  God’s abilities are limitless and powerful – just read and enjoy the following verses:

Deuteronomy 3:24,
Deuteronomy 9:3,
II Samuel 22:32-34,
I Chronicles 29:12,
Psalm 18:1-2,
Psalm 62:7-8,
Psalm 68:35,
Luke 1:37,
Isaiah 40:28-31,
Job 9:4,
Jeremiah 5:22,
Jude 1:25.

It’s settled, my friend. God has settled it!