Month: March 2016

Luke 6:20 “Then He lifted up His eyes toward His disciples, and said: ‘Blessed are you poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.’”

Dear God, Father to us all.

It is wonderful to know that You, God in three; the Trinity, lift up any that are poor and oppressed and show each what will be theirs in  the new earth. I like the way it is written in the Clear Word, Translation, and “Happiness doesn’t come from being rich.  You can be poor and still be happy because you know that God’s whole kingdom is yours.”

Hunger will be no more either in heaven and the new earth or for anyone who weeps now, all tears and sorrow will flee away in heaven and the new earth and instead our mouths will be full of praise and happiness.  No one will say hateful things or falsely accuse us in heaven, either.  Hallelujah, a place free from sin and we will not be mixed up emotionally or be sad.

Heaven with Jesus will be worth being true to Him now here on this sinful earth, no matter what transpires, for He always gives us the ability to follow Him and endure.

If and when we suffer because of our faith in Jesus, I have the comforting words of Paul to cling to, knowing he went through much because He stayed true always and fearlessly served Jesus. He says not only is it a privilege to follow Jesus, but also to be persecuted, as He was.  Also there are the stories in Your Bible, about the lives of many of the prophets of old that illustrate, that Your grace and strength is always sufficient.  Even though in normal circumstances no one plans to die prematurely or be persecuted and put to death, these faithful martyrs, did so with praises on their lips to their God, for You gave them the joy, peace and strength to endure, as is illustrated by the lives of many, many of your true and faithful servants.

Jesus, You truly are our example, and we can never be called upon to endure in the same way You did for us in order to fulfil the plan of Salvation, which gives each of us on earth, freedom from sin and death, followed by eternal life; if we simply accept You and Your offer, humbly and in obedience.

Thank You and praises to God in three, the Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit (Ghost).

Please God, forgive my wrong thoughts and attitudes, and fill me with Your Spirit, so that I can live as Jesus did and follow Him truly, in all circumstances.

Amen

 

 

Deuteronomy 8:3 “So He humbled you, allowed you to hunger, and fed you with manna which you did know nor did your fathers know, that He might make you know that man shall not live by bread alone; but man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of the Lord.”

Dear God,

Fill my mind and heart with true words of thanks and praise, for You alone are good, and love and care for me, and each one of us.  More than that You created and create all things and because of that we are precious to You, even though we are as tiny specks in the universe.  Also only You know the end from the beginning and everything that ever was and ever will be.  You have each person in your vision, even when they are allowed to die.

When someone who is a friend and close to me in age, and they die, not only do I miss them, but I realize what the years have wrought, forming a steady progression toward my own death.  This is sobering!  Many of my friends, family members and I, have our hope, fastened upon Jesus and in the knowledge that He comes again, to take His own dear children home to heaven, and death is just a sleep; before Jesus as the life giving Creator, calls me (us) to new life, with a new body.  Our friends and loved ones are not gone for ever, and with our loved ones and those we know, heaven will be sweet.

Thank You for reminding me God, that as the Children of Israel depended upon You for every mouthful in the wilderness, so do I during my lifetime.  You keep me alive and have a plan for my life.  As it was wrong for the people in the desert to complain about the manna food, that You sent them, that kept them alive and healthy, so it is wrong for me to complain about Your plans, my circumstances and Your provision for me.

I rejoice that I have a provision of the simple foods you provide, remembering that when You gave the Children of Israel the flesh food they whined for; many of them died.  Not from eating the food so much, but from their sinful ungrateful, rebellion toward You, as their God, Creator and Provider of all.  However it is interesting to note, that excessive eating of flesh food is very unhealthful, and for me as a total plant based vegetarian, very unattractive as a food source, and I am grateful that I have access to many luscious plant based foods.

In the strength of the Holy Spirit I can and desire to love and serve You truly and obediently, today and all days.

Amen

Luke 5: 27, 28 “Later, Jesus went out and saw a tax collector named Levi sitting at the place for playing taxes.  Jesus said to him, ‘Come with me.’ Levi left everything and went with Jesus.”  Quoted from, “The Friend Forever Bible”.

Dear God,

On this lovely day of moderate heat, blue skies, fluffy white clouds and little chirping birds, it feels so right to thank and praise You above all.  I enjoyed preparing the ground and planting the vegetable seedlings.  I look forward to the soon coming lush green growth of the lettuce, mixed Chinese greens, rocket and broccoli.  I also look forward to the arrival of my order of seeds for the garden and micro greens, ordered from an enticing catalogue.  I am very grateful, that You have provided us with nutritious foods that some of us are privileged to be able to grow in our gardens.

I read in the first chapters of Luke, that Jesus had been taking the attention of the people wherever He went ‘like a storm’.  Though His actions and words had the impact of a storm, He actually provided peace, needed life direction and answers to soul needs, along with comfort and healing.  In Luke 5 He was still choosing the team of men that would accompany Him, as disciples during the time of ministry on earth.  He knew the blend of personalities and abilities needed for the now, and for the years of being His messengers after He had returned to heaven.  The Holy Spirit works on every heart directing them to their God, and everyone has free choice to accept or reject these overtures by the Spirit.  The men Jesus chose, had been slowly responding to the Spirits ’still small voice’ and so when Jesus came along, and suggested that they leave all and follow Him, they made such a sacrifice without hesitation or a backward thought of repining.

I wonder if I or many of us would respond when such a request or sacrifice, comes our way?  Work upon my heart and mind dear God, so that I will always follow and do as You ask, no matter the place or the sacrifice.  Also that I will know without a shadow of a doubt, that it is Your voice that calls, and not my own idea, or the devils suggestion.

Jesus called Levi, who was from the hated occupation of tax collector, due to the fact that they collected money for the Romans, who were the conquering force at the time.  Not one to be chosen by human terms, but Jesus representing heaven, knew his heart, which was not revealed on his exterior.  A lesson we the inhabitants of earth, often need to learn, we only know a little of what goes on inside a person, even when we know them well, it has been reported.  Therefore it is unwise to pass solid judgement upon a person’s motivation or unspoken opinion.

Levi was so happy that Jesus had accepted him by asking him to join the team, that he threw a celebratory meal for Jesus.  Naturally his friends, fellow tax collectors and other ‘notable well heeled’ personages where there. V29 “In his home Levi gave a big dinner for Jesus.  Many tax collectors and other guests were also there.”  Such an event always miffs some people, because so many of us, due to our sinful self-interest, either think we should have been along, or that we would not risk our reputation to eat with someone who was not socially acceptable by church or community standards.  I am so glad God, that because of Your infinite patience, that You bear long with us.  And finally some of us do ‘get it’ and humble ourselves and in Your strength, attempt to follow Your way of love and equality.  V30” The Pharisees and some of their teachers of the Law of Moses grumbled to Jesus’ disciples ‘Why do you eat and drink with those tax collectors and other sinners?”  Surprise, surprise, I wonder if they really thought they were not sinners?  The well-known passage in Isaiah, referring to Jesus, (which He had read aloud in the temple) told of the morality of each person who has ever lived, V 6”All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned, everyone to his own way;………”

Amen

Mark 10:15 “Assuredly, I say unto you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, will by no means enter it.”

Dear God,

I am grateful that You never tire of me, and that You always love me, and continue to be interested in me as a person, as well as in my comings and goings.  I am also grateful to be able to read the scriptures freely, and for the ones I have read today.  Especially for the reminder in Deuteronomy 1 and 2, that You led and cared for the children of Israel all through their 40 years of wilderness wanderings, despite what they had done against You and continued to do through the generations.  Therefore I believe You will not weary of me either.

I again commit my life to You today and ask that the Holy Spirit will be my strength, so that I can indeed discern Your loving voice, which gives affirmation, council, correction and direction, even though I have often been dull of hearing, wayward, untrusting, self-opinionated and even rebellious toward You in the past.  I am sorry, and truly want to be humble and obedient child as a Yours should be.

You know that at present, all seems too much for me to consider, for I am very tired.  However I am confident that I will be carried through all, because of Your promise to be our strength and comfort, and I have always found this to be so, otherwise I would be in despair most likely.

I appreciate the times when I can interact with the children that are in the care of my daughter.  It is a joy to see how easily they learn to believe in and love Jesus.  Even though, because of their various past experiences and learning difficulties, they have problems with some areas of school, they do not have any trouble learning that they have a guardian angel, which will go with them (us) when they play, travel and every other place they go. It is beautiful to see their simple trust in You and the joy they have in going to church and their own program of songs, lesion and craft.  I am confident from Your word, that they are loved and cared for by You, more than we know, or are capable of giving ourselves.

Thank You for hearing my prayers for them and myself, and be my strength now, so that I can be a worthy influence in their lives, and be the type of influence that will never destroy the simplicity of their belief or faith in You, God, the Father, Jesus or the angels.

Thank You that the salvation story is simple enough for a small child to believe, and I ask that I will indeed ‘receive the kingdom of God as a little child’.

Amen

 

 

Mark 9:31 ‘………..”The Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of men and they will kill Him.  And after He is killed, He will rise the third day.”

Dear God,

How lovely it is to hear the bird song in numbers, as they sing a chorus in the soft light of a pale blue sky, enhanced by fluttering green leaves; all testifying of Your powers of creation, love and mercy.  I thank You for supplying me with the strength and wisdom for my daily tasks; even if a little more slowly than usual.  Lord open my mind and all there is of me, so I can truly be Your loving child and witness.  I am sorry for the times I miss the lessons You would teach me, because I am so engrossed in life circumstances or my own preconceived ideas.  Sadly not only do I miss the lesson You have for me, but the opportunity to show Your love and teaching to others.

Just so, the disciples did not know that Jesus taught of Himself in Mark 9:31 and they did not take the opportunity to ask for clarification.  They had previously been occupied in disputing about who would be the greatest in the kingdom of Jesus, when He set it up.

The good news to me is that I can grow in knowledge of, allegiance to, and implementing the purpose of Jesus, as I put myself aside, and follow Him with my whole heart.  This is what the disciples did, after Jesus had died and risen from the grave alive.  They and many other disciples of Jesus, in repentance put all else aside and then they chose to come closer to their Lord, in fasting and prayer.

Then as Jesus had promised, the Holy Spirit came down and filled them, and the ‘lights’ and ‘action’ came on in the lives of the seeking disciples, as reported in the book of Acts.

In Mark 9:43 on, Mark relays more of the teaching of Jesus, telling us all, it would be better to lose an eye or body part, if any of them, were to be a hindrance or cause us to sin which can only lead to eternal death.   To God it is especially grievous for me or anyone else to deliberately lead another into sin, and even more grievous if we badly treat a child/ or lead any child into sin.

Again today, I joyfully choose You Jesus, and by the Holy Spirit I will put my selfish desires aside, and seek You in prayer, and then follow, as You lead with love and wisdom; that is divine, and so very precious.

Amen

 

Luke 9:2 “He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.”

Dear God,

Praise Your wonderful and holy name, for You are all powerful and glorious.  Today in 1 Samuel 6 and Luke 9: 1-17, I have been impressed with Your love and power.  Yet above even those two aspects, is the beautiful truth that You love every one of us, even the people who do not accept, believe in, or do as You ask.  It is also true, that for those who accept You and for those who do not accept You; it does not change the fact that all on earth and in the universe, are subject to You, as our Creator whether we admit it or not.  For those of us who have accepted You and are Christians; it is a delightful experience to be loved by You and love and give honour in return.

In the Luke 9 account, Jesus is now grown up and filled with the Holy Spirit and in contact with His Father in heaven: was by His activities and witness, turning all in his radius of contact, upside down.  I can imagine, if this was happening here where I live, we would all view Him on whatever IT medium of our preference; and maybe go to see him live.  We would want to watch what He did and listen to His speeches, and hopefully do what He said, as we saw the sick healed, people raised to life, as well as food materializing at His words of blessing, or demons responding to His words, and being cast out of their victims.

Amazingly even His disciples, ordinary men, were given power from Him, and went forth, Luke 9:6 “So they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.”

Later, as so often had happened previously, Jesus took the disciples away from the people crush and bustle, so the He could quietly converse and pray with and for them.  Also what had frequently occurred in the past did so again on this occasion, when the people went looking and found His location; Jesus did not turn them away.  Luke 9:11 “…..He received and spoke to them about the kingdom of God and healed those who had need of healing.”

Even though the disciples had recently healed and worked miracles by the power of God, they were still baby Christians, with an underdeveloped faith at this time, and did not realize how they were going to feed 5000.  They did not manifest strong faith even in the presence of their Master, who had previously performed to the human mind and experience, astounding miracles.  Once again in great power from on high, Jesus created enough bread and fish for everyone there.

Jesus You also know my belief and faith level, and that they are in need of growth.  I ask again today, that as I come to You in Bible study and prayer, my faith and trust will develop, as a plant grows in the sun.  I open up my heart and mind, for You to grow them, as needful for me to be a complete, vibrant Christian.

Amen

John 12:23 “He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.”

Dear God,

Thank You for answered prayer, along with Your peace, strength, wisdom and love.  I need all the divine interventions given to me, and You alone know my needs.  It is of great comfort to know, that my prayers are heard and sins forgiven, and graciously I am granted the righteousness of Jesus to cover my sinful body like a garment, along with all the Holy Spirit brings to my life.

The bible account given in John 12:20-25, tell of some Greeks who had come to worship at the feast and asked to see Jesus.  His words to them were deep and meaningful then, as they are for me now.  He told them in verse 23, “The hour has come that the Son of Man should be glorified”.  I have read that Jesus was glorified and that I now have real hope of eternal life, when we choose to give our life to Him and serve Him.  Verse 25-26 “He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. V. 26 “If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me: and where I am, there My servant will be also.  If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honour.”

Though many have been put to death because they have remained faithful to Jesus, most Christians in my part of the world, have not been called upon to give their physical life for Jesus, even so there can be severe tests and trials in life of different types.  I know strength and help will come when I today and each day determine to offer You my whole heart and obedience.

Speak to my heart today especially please, so I know Your will in regards, to what I should take on, and what I should say no to, in regards to every day and future helping activities.

Lord You know my failings and weaknesses as I interacted with others sometimes I have had uncharitable thoughts and have allowed irritations to creep in. You also know I truly want to be Your person and blessing in all my interactions with others.  You alone can change and empower me.   According to Your recorded words, it is Your will for anyone who sees their need and asks for a heart change and empowerment of divine grace, to work with us, and so make it happen.

I give You all my praise and thanks again today.

Amen

John 10:16 “And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd.”

Dear God,

I thank and praise You, for all Your love, and provision in all areas.  Especially for salvation through Jesus Christ, and His love for me as a sinner, which is above human, for He is Your divine Son, most beloved.  It is not something we sinful, created beings could or would do – go to a small mainly hostile place, from our beautiful heavenly home, with the purpose of reclaiming those living upon earth, from sin and death.  Sin, which has the automatic consequence of death, was incited by the originator of all sin, Satan, when in heaven as the beautiful, unfallen angel Lucifer.  Satan (who was Lucifer in his unfallen condition) and the other fallen angels have no power over God or Jesus, and could only act toward Christ as God allowed whilst Jesus was on earth in human form.

Jesus, as our Shepherd keeps us safe and leads us to good pastures, and then to places of rest and refreshing; He also attends our wounds and hurts with aid designed to heal.  As with every shepherd in the time of Jesus, He also knows each one of His children personally and we as His children know Him.  This is our blessed privilege.

But we, His children are not an exclusive group, for Jesus would have everyone to be one of His followers.  There is only one way to salvation, and it is through being in the one united flock of Jesus and following Him.  Thank You Jesus for Your invitation, and the commission to invite as many others to also join His flock, as I can.

Forgive me, for not always caring enough to let others know that they are all welcome in Your flock, which acknowledges You as the true Shepherd, able and willing to lead us to a life of peace and joy.

Jesus knew that His Father loved Him greatly and fully supported Him for what He came to earth to do.  John 10:17 “Therefore the Father loves Me, because I lay down My life that I may take it again.”

Previously, the plan had been made between You, Father God and Jesus, as Your Son, that He would become our sin substitute.  Death could not contain God, Your Son, and as planned He did arise to life on the third day, showing the entire universe that He had conquered sin and death.

We now know that His power will raise us up from corruptible death to life immortal.  In the meantime during our earthly life, as we confess our sins and are forgiven them, we have the assurance that Christ is not only our Lamb of sacrifice, a recompense for every sin; but is our High Priest in heaven making atonement for all our confessed sin, coming out of true our true repentance.

Thank You Jesus, I again today accept You as my Lord and Saviour, as well as my Shepherd, and desire to be one of Your obedient sheep who will in the power of the Holy Spirit, follow You faithfully wherever You go.

Hallelujah, my Saviour is risen, ready and waiting!

Amen