For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of

1Co 9:16 For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!

Good morning again dear friends, I am so glad that the Lord is a patient and loving God. I am so glad that He saved an unworthy sinner as I. I have been thinking about Gods holiness and how that we are only able to come into His presence because of the Lord Jesus Christ. If it were not for Jesus, then I would in no doubt not be sitting in the position I am sitting in today. we are no doubt in this day and age buffeted from every side with temptation, and our flesh. God however said that when we are tempted He has made a way of escape. Paul says here in Corinthians, I have nothing to glory of, that is, in and of himself, because there are none righteous no not one. I fall into this category everyday my dear friends, I am a man in the flesh, however saved by the blood of Jesus Christ and have no other desire but to write unto you about the Lord Jesus Christ and His greatness. I want to see people come to know the Jesus Christ as their personal Savior, to redeem their souls from the everlasting hell fire that is to come. My friend it is appointed unto man to die once, then the judgement. Where do you find yourself today? I praise God that I have bowed the knee and I accepted Jesus for the remission of my sins, that knowing if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins. The Lord has made the ultimate sacrifice, He has shed His blood that I may have everlasting life. I know dear readers that you say to yourselves "boy he sure talks about Jesus a lot". When it comes down to it, even though I am married, and have a child, and I thank my God for them. I still have nothing without Jesus and His grace and mercy. I am undone today as Jeremiah was in the old testament, I see our present world getting wickeder and wickeder and the people just living life frivolously. This hurts me because many, and this may include you do not know of the wonderful love of God, and that He wishes none should perish, but all come unto repentance through Jesus Christ. I am tired of the lives that are destroyed because of sin, and iniquity. I see children devastated and paying for their parents sin, I see parents paying for their children's sin because they as parents didn't raise them in the understanding of the Lord. I pray that today there would be another with the same burden for people to say, woe unto me if I preach not the gospel. Let your light shine today Christian that others may desire to ask why you are so different, why do you walk in this world with a purpose, rather than just existing. May God bless you today saint of God, and remember whatsoever ye do, do unto the Lord.

The Church Part III

Again my dear friends what an opportunity for me to brag on the Lord, last night was an excellent service in the house of God. What would this world be like without the ability of a preacher to meet with the people in the church house and hear the Word of God? I shudder at the thought of it as I read through the book of Revelation and the end times. Now we shall continue on today with some points of the responsibilities of the church as a whole to fulfill until the return of the Lord Jesus Christ. All this of course I encourage you to go back and look in your bibles and read.

1. The church is to edify the believers (1 Cor 14:26; Eph 4:11,12,16)
2. The church is to discipline its members (Mt 18:17; Rom 16:17; 1 Cor 5:1-13)
   this of course in no way substitutes for the command of self-discipline (1 Cor 11:31), and
   sovereign discipline (1 Cor 11:32) if we were to follow in these examples then the role of
   church discipline would not be needed.
3. The church is to provide a place for fellowship for believers (Acts 2:42,47; 1 Cor 1:9,10; 2 Cor 8:4)
   There are also certain things to be aware of as the church concerning fellowship some to
   be reminded of are:
   a. The reason for fellowship-The Lord Jesus Christ (1 Jn 1:3)
   b. The dangers of loosing fellowship- Sin (1 Cor 10:16,21)
   c. The responsibilities of fellowship:
   i. To confess our faults
   ii. To rebuke sin in each other (not to destroy, but to restore)
   iii. To forgive one another
   iv. To bear one anothers burdens
   v. To comfort and exhort one another
   vi. To pray for one another
   vii. To edify one another
4. The church is to care for its own in the time of need (2 Cor 8,9; 1 Tim 5:1-16)
5. The church is to be an enlightening and restraining in this present age (Mt 5:13-16)

Friend I hope this study has been as much a delight for you as this has for me. I encourage you to look at the bible and study out what has been presented and see if you are lining up with scripture. My desire is to see you in fellowship in all services that are offered in the church house and find yourself serving instead of sitting. As the bible states in 1st Corinthians we are all many members of one body, not all can be the body. Strive to examine yourself and get things right with the Lord, then ask Him to place you where you are needed and can be used of Him.

The Church Part II

Dear friends let us continue on with our study of the church, that is the visible organism that is to be alive rather than dead in this present age. Yesterday I left off with the point of the individual believers membership into a true independent new testament church, and how the individual church is autonomous that is self governing. You see as we read through scripture I can point out every single church that was established and I cannot see where these single church's ever had anybody but a single pastor as the leader. I say all of this because it gives rise to substitute organizations to do the work of the responsibility of each autonomous congregation. For example, the church was given the duty of caring for the widows, Acts 6:1, but now welfare does that. The church was also told to take care of the poor and needy, Gal. 2:10; but now the Salvation Army has taken over that role. You see if you cannot commit yourself to a church ( a local body of like minded believers) then you will become para-church and fall into the misconception of universalism, or liberal theology in which will errode the need for separated, sanctified living from its members. Now I think I have rode this horse long enough, if we haven't figured out the need for a local assembly then I will be more than glad to carry that on through separate discussion via e-mail. I would like to look at some of the scriptural purposes of the church versus what a lot of people "think" the church should be. I made a statement yesterday of the church not being a meeting house of men to gather together just to debate the worlds problems for we know according to II Tim Chapter 3 that in the last days there will be perilous times, that is my friend, this world is not going to get any better no matter what they tell you about the advances of science. That is why I believe every member of their local congregation should be aware of some of the tasks and responsibilities that the bible teaches, and quite frankly some of these renewed my thought process after I started studying them out. In no real numerical value on the order that I mention these I will start off with the need of the church to glorify God,

1. To Glorify God-I mean why else would we gather together after a long and tiring day or week of work with life's problems facing us? The church should glorify God through its preaching and ministry (1 Pet 4:11), through its fruitbearing (Jn 15:8), through its giving, through our acknowledging of Gods Son, since this is the foundation of the church, and the bridegroom who will receive His bride one day. The church should also glorify God through its witnessing, through its loving, and its love for the Word of God.
2. The church has been given the command to evangelize the world in Matthew 28:19, Mark 16:15, Luke 24:47, John 20:21 and Acts 1:8 supports this role.
3. The church is to instruct believers (Mt 28:19, I Tim 4:6), dear friend I know for a fact that our modern day schools puffed up with all this worlds wisdom is not about to help you in your spiritual walk with the Lord Jesus Christ, much less mention Him unless it is in opposition as to what the Lord did for us individually and for the church.
4. Not only does the church have the responsibility to instruct believers, but to edify believers for the work of the ministry(Eph 4:11, 12,16).

Friend there are many more points that I would like to share with you but time would not allow me to go on today. Again, I will follow up tomorrow with more of the purposes of the church and see if we can't examine ourselves while reading in the bible and see if where we are choosing to go to church fits the example of a local independent new testament church?

And upon this rock I will build my church

Mat 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

Good morning to you dear friends as I mentioned yesterday I would like to look at the church, its purpose, and its make up. In the above referenced verse we find that Peter had just declared Jesus as the Christ, the Son of the Living God. Now all this if you will read before hand was revealed unto Peter by faith, and faith alone. This is where the rock comes in, it is upon that solid foundation, faith, that Christ was to build His church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Peter did not start the church as some would have you to believe. The Lord loved the church, the bride of Christ so much that He died for it. I would specifically like to focus on the local New Testament Independent Church of the bible. One in which there are certain distinctions made from today's teachings of certain false doctrines, and ideas. All this will of course as the local New Testament assembly is, be explained through scripture. You say then what is the church and I say the church is an organism; living, breathing, growing, and going forward in the Lords work until His return. The church is not some organization where men gather to debate the worlds problems. The church is much more than shallowness of brick and mortar, as the bible teaches wood, hay and stubble will burn in the fire, so why would the church that our Lord and Savior built be anything associated with these items. The church is not associated with the state or government, as we are a separated assembly of believers each to a local authority under the Pastor of that certain assembly. In European countries it is a very popular belief that the the church and state are one, or that there is a certain state denomination that is supported and said to be the only true church, while scripture will support otherwise. The church is not the Kingdom as some would have you to believe, as the Kingdom is future(Acts 15:16) and the church is to be built during this present age (Eph 4:12). Almost all non-scriptural aspects of a church that claims to be new testament is that they will have a single thing in common, they cannot and will not come under the authority of a single Pastor as the authority, no instead they will heap to themselves multi levels of authority, or councils that will demand obedience, or some type of fellowship that would tell the sub-ordinate church's what they should be doing, teaching, and preaching. A non new testament church will also allow just about anybody to become a member and participate in their functions, without any true profession of faith or obedience to Christ or the scriptures. This is where a lot of church's start to allow the world to infiltrate their church's and it no longer operates under the authority of Christ, but under the ideas and wills of men and women with agendas. An actual local new testament church is quite different as its composition of membership differs and its governing differs. A true local new testament church is comprised of saved(scriptural regeneration), baptized believers into a local congregation distinctly lead by a Pastor as the leader of the church, as Christ is the head of the church. A true local new testament church has a pastor in authority and the church is autonomous (that is self governing), they do not belong to some convention, fellowship, board, or otherwise that would dictate their worship, preaching, or teaching. Dear friend this will be all for today I will stop at this point and I will pick this up again tomorrow as I want to digest this slowly along with you. If you cannot wait until tomorrow then leave a comment and I will be more than glad to try and answer it in tomorrows post along with the continuation of this study. I hope this has helped so far and may God bless.

It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power

Act 1:7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. Act 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.


Good morning friends, and dear readers. What a wonderful Lords day we had yesterday at Calvary Baptist Church. The Lord was so gracious as to add unto the church 2 new families which we accepted by public profession of faith. The Lord is so good to us and we are overjoyed at His word, that in Acts 2:47 it is written "And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved." You see the Lord said that if we sow we shall reap, and sometimes it appears to us that the ground is non-fertile anymore. However I have been thinking a lot about the "church" and its responsibilities, so I want to start tomorrow a simple study for as long as the Lord leads on the church. You see in the above scripture that it is not for you to know the times or seasons, and this was in reference as to whether Jesus had returned to establish His kingdom. The disciples where no doubt excited, and in their excitement I believe they lost focus again a little on the purpose of Jesus Christ's death, burial, and Resurrection. First off it is in Gods own time as to when Jesus will return, and that means until His return we are to occupy, that is to be busy...what are we to be doing you might ask? Well the answer can be found in the very next verse and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. I believe it is every church's responsibility to start at their doorstep and reach their community for Jesus, then as the Lord allows expand your reach into the uttermost. Now of course this will require prayer, and work. Again I stated that sometimes the ground seems a little non fertile today, people seem to be even more non receptive to the Word of God, and the things of God. Just as the Lord showed us yesterday He will no doubt show you, if you sow with tears, ye shall reap bountifully...for "it is not for you to know the times or seasons." It can get a little discouraging sometimes when it seems like all that is going on is the sowing, you might ask when is the harvest coming? The Lord also left us this in His word Luk 10:2 Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest. We shouldn't be wrapped up in the time of the harvest, but that we are working for the harvest. We need to be labourers sowing, in due season, in which we know not, will be the reaping. Friend can you say today the Lord has found you busy in the field? Maybe you need to get busy and today can be the start of it? Friend you may be lost in sin and know nothing of the harvest that is coming forth, let me warn you that if you are not born again, that is accepting the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior then you will not be able to work the fields because you are lost in them. I encourage you today to read the scriptures and see what the Lord has done for you in His death on the cross and the reason for it, then you too after conversion can enter in and be a laborer for the Lord and understand His greatness.

New Features Test

Now I'm getting dangerous as I have found ways to make my blog more interactive.  I should be able to post on here some preaching and teaching via hyperlink!! 

Teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.

Tit 1:10 For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, especially they of the circumcision: Tit 1:11 Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake.

Good morning dear Friends and i hope all that had a Thanksgiving had a wonderful one. As for me and my family it was awesome. Good food, good fun, and good fellowship abounded greatly. I came across this verse this morning and it was just impressed on me to write about those that would try my dear friend to add unto or take away from the preaching, assembling, or testifying of the things of God. Friend we come across many during the day that are unruly and vain talkers pertaining to the things of God, and as it states in the next verse, whose mouths must be stopped. Dear Christian when somebody in your presence starts talking foolishly about God and His greatness then I believe it is our responsibility to speak up for Him and be a good witness and testimony. Now don't get me wrong there should never be a time where you get in such a heated argument that you loose your temper and you begin to get so angry that you are yelling and carrying on like a lost person. Remember we are to win over the gainsayers with our chaste conversation, the Word of God, not our own views. We must be gentle but firm in face of opposition to Gods word, but harmless as doves. Then there are those who would deceive for filthy lucre..the bible says to buy the truth and sell it not. Friend I exhort you today to listen to the word of God and search your hearts and leave the TV preachers alone. Find yourself a good bible believing church, one that would preach the whole counsel of God rather than that which would play on your emotions and take your money or keep you in bondage by some superficial ordinance that is not even biblical. For if any man preach not Christ crucified for the remission of our sins, and that he was placed in a tomb, only to be risen and seen of many before His accession, then that person is of the Antichrist. There are many things being taught today for filthy lucre's sake, and I want you to beware and go back and read the bible to see whether those things be true. It grieves me greatly to see whole houses under some false teaching concerning Christ and the things of God. I wish that there were a way for me to visit with each and every person to show them directly from the bible and answer their questions concerning salvation, and the true walk of a believer. Friend I ask for no money, or things of this earth save one thing and that is by this blog one would come to know Jesus Christ as their personal savior, and that I may magnify the Lords name because of what He did in order for that new believer and me to rejoice together. Now don't get me wrong but I want to ensure you understand that I am NOT against the tithe, and offerings, I just am tired of these goofy books written by "preacher" and "teachers", or these silly seminars that would only take your money and leave you with no spiritual strengthening. Friend if your looking to some book written about the Word of God to gain money, riches, a title, a position, some way for you to get ahead in life on an easier path, then you've missed it dear reader, because its not about us in this lifetime, but about the Lord Jesus Christ in the eternity that is coming. Do you know the Lord today as your personal Savior, if so then I hope and pray that you are in a true bible believing church,if your not then I encourage you to seek one out, give me an e-mail and I will help you to find one. If you don't know Christ as your personal then why don't you leave me a comment and I would be more than glad to contact you and show you what the bible says about salvation. Until tomorrow may God bless.

For the LORD is good

Psa 100:4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
Psa 100:5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

Friends you can rest assured that on the day that I enter into the Lords presence that I am going to enter in to His rest with thanksgiving. No more will this feeble minded man have to worry about anything. As I enter into the Kings court I can only imagine the multitudes that will be there with me to worship the Lord Jesus Christ. Today friends where ever you are is thanksgiving here in America. As the preacher said the other night, this is truly a Christian holiday. This is the time that we gather together as families for no other purpose but to give thanks to the Lord. This is the time that we can look back over the year and remember where the Lord has brought us from. We can also look forward and give thanks for the things that the Lord will do for us according to His will. The number one thing that I thank God for is sending His Son, Jesus Christ to die for my sins, that I could call upon His name for salvation. If it was not for the Lord dying for my sins then there would be absolutely nothing to be thankful about as I would be still aimlessly wandering around in sin and never appreciate anything. When the Lord saved me I became a new creature in Him, the Lord opened my eyes, and my heart to look upon this world in a different view. I now see sinners in need of a Savior, I see Christians that need to be restored into fellowship with the Lord, I see the many things that Jesus saved me from and I am overjoyed for. Dear reader if you have not accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior then today you can, as bible states "2Co 6:2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.) " If you will accept the Lord as your personal Savior then you could join the many that have already and you too can enter His court with praise, be thankful unto Him, and bless His name. I also would like to thank God for our pastor, for without him and the people I would not be able to worship a Holy God in completeness. I love the church and the people who are made up of it. I thank God for my family and that all of them are saved. I thank God that He is God, ever present, all knowing, all merciful, long suffering, and that there is no other. Friend what are you thankful for today? Can you praise the Lord with me, as I lift up His name? If not then I would love to hear from you, and tell you more about Jesus and His sacrifice for our sins. To God be the Glory and may all of you have a wonderful thanksgiving.

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach

Luk 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, Luk 4:19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.

Again the Lord never ceases to amaze me, we were blessed to have a message from Pastor D.A. Emmerson from Lifegate Baptist Church in Louisiana. Pastor D.A. preached his heart out and I believe that it did all those in attendance good to hear what the Lord put on his heart. The meeting again started off with some wonderful music from the Gilley family out of Decatur. This softened our hearts to receive the word. Pastor D.A. brought his message from the above text, he made some very fine points and the main thought was the Pattern of Christ. In the above text it mentions preaching 3x. If it isn't clear enough folks it is the foolishness of preaching that God chose to use to work in peoples lives. None of this modern day 50 minutes of contemporary singing then a 10 minute sermonette, no it is the message from the Word of God that pierces the soul and brings us to repentance. Notice also the different folks to preach to..
1. To the poor-the gospel message is not just for the rich, and those that are held in esteem in life, for the Lord commanded us to go into the highways and hedges that His house may be full. You see the gospel is a whosoever will gospel, not a class of people gospel. Remember dear friend that the Lord God owns all the riches in glory, and that means that precious soul that's waiting to hear the gospel.
2. To the brokenhearted-How about preaching to those needing comfort. In days like this there are enough things to become brokenhearted about, instead why not give them a message of hope? A message of the King the Lord Jesus Christ, to encourage them to turn to Him for their every need which He will give unto them if they will accept Him as their personal savior.
3. To preach deliverance to the captives- Oh saint of God, how we must not keep our mouths shut to them that are captive to sin. It is in our hearts and by the power of God that we can give them a message of deliverance. Remember the time that the devil had you in his hands? Help them break the chains of bondage by showing them the power of Christ and what He has done in your life.
4. To the blind-Again friend be not discouraged, but instead lean unto the Lord Jesus and by the power of the Holy Spirit all the things that you don't understand , all the things the devil would try to blind you with shall be lifted away. Dig into the old blessed Book, and ask that your sight would be restored. This can only be by the truth from the Bible.
5. To set at liberty them that are bruised-Dear child of God this is for you, if at anytime some man has offended you or hurt you then know this if anything else..the Lord Jesus Christ will never leave you or forsake you. Dear friend it is for us to go to them and love them and restore them. Let us do everything within our heart to restore such a one to fellowship with the saints and with a Holy God.
6. To preach the acceptable year of the Lord- To preach our hearts out that there is Jesus Christ who died for our sins, was buried, and risen. Not only is Christ sitting on a throne on the right hand of God, but He is returning again in full power and glory to rule and reign forever more.

Friend I hope this helps you today to see that we are to be a strong witness to the power of the risen Savior, and the ability of Him to change our lives that we may serve a Holy God. We should ever be pressing for the prize of the high mark of our calling to preach the gospel to every creature, tribe, and tongue in this world until Jesus glorious return.

Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths

Jer 6:16 Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.

The Lord is great, He answered my prayers last night about our thanksgiving jubilee at Calvary Baptist Church. We started off the service with a wonderful family that sang together, what a blessing. If you have never heard them I encourage you to check them out they are sure to be a blessing http://www.ffministry.org/. Then it was time for the preaching, whew what a message for today's time. Bro Black from east Tennessee nailed the bulls eye in many areas that pertain to our lives as Christians. From the scripture he used it couldn't have been more relevant for us. I have went back and meditated on this and will write what the Lord has helped me to see.
1. Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths--don't leave doctrinal teaching for a compromising generation, it may not bring in the crowds like modern day rock concerts, but bless God it still glorifies Him by faithfulness. There are enough things in this world to satisfy the flesh and the church house should not be one of them. The bible says to see, I like to think that would mean to open our eyes and watch our lives, how are we living? Are we glorifying God, or walking farther from Him? Ask for the old paths, remember dear friends that there is nothing new under the sun as the preacher says in Ecclesiastes. The bible, the Word of God does not have to be re-written to make it understandable for a new generation, no dear friend to understand it you must be born again. Leave that perverted version you may have alone and get a good King James bible.
2. Where is the good way, and walk therein--the bible says in Pro 16:25 There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death. Then the bible is very clear that there is the way of the righteous person, and we are to desire to walk in righteousness with God, and He will keep us, guide us, and lead us in all truth through His Son Jesus Christ. The bible says to walk therein, the Lord didn't say come to the church hear the message and sit down, no the the Lord commanded us that we are to be doers, not hearers only..so get up today and walk in the commandments of the Lord.
3. and ye shall find rest for your souls-- what a joy it is to know the God in heaven knows that these bodies and minds are feeble at best, we are given opportunity to rest. we can rest in His love, we can have rest for our souls because of the Lord Jesus Christ and the finished work on the cross of Calvary, no more do we have to wander. The Lord said in Mat 11:28 Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Now brings me to the saddest part of today's devotion, But they said, We will not walk therein. What a shame to be so bold in heart, we are constantly walking some way, why does it have to be in opposition to God? Friends, Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. Why continue to harden your hearts and push away from a wonderful God who sent His only begotten Son to die for your sins? Won't you accept Him today? This may be the only opportunity for you to know that the Lord Jesus Christ laid down His life as a sacrifice for the remission of your sins that you may have eternal life and fellowship with Him. Friend if you can take a moment to quit walking in unrighteousness and stand, and see what the Lord has done for you concerning salvation, then ask for forgiveness of your sins, and call upon His name then thou shalt be saved!! Glory to God in the highest you can begin a new walk and live in fellowship with Him. Bless you dear reader today, I hope that you are able to praise the Lord Jesus Christ with your heart, and confess Him with your mouth.

He said unto them, Doth this offend you?

Joh 6:61 When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you?
I apologize dear friends as I am having computer difficulties, so as this makes its way out it is a little late, if by chance you read these in the usual morning posts. Sunday was great, and the preaching of Pastor Tony Ayers at Calvary Baptist Church just keeps getting better. What a heart for people and the things of God. During our Sunday school hour Bro Ward ( our local church sent missionary for church planting in the western U.S.A.) started out by using text from John Chp 6:66-69, I went back and was reading a little before that and verse 61 jumped out at me. It made me smile a little as I know that if my Savior had trouble getting through to an unregenerate society then it shouldn't surprise us as laborers for Christ that we won't have some to be offended by our life and walk, teaching and preaching. What a great chapter on some of the teachings of the deity of Christ, and of salvation and other doctrines. You see Jesus had been teaching on doctrine and now the time was come to have discipleship tested during this teaching. Would they be there with him, or would they leave? Would they be offended as Jesus exhorted them to leave the law and follow after Him as the Messiah? Discipleship is our lives as Christians, ever growing in the Lord so we may serve the Lord. Some of us choke down doctrine, others accept it gladly. Again the bible clearly states in the last days that people will heap to themselves teachers having itching ears, and that my friend is what I see daily. People wandering around in their Christians lives like a person thrown overboard on a rough sea. They have nothing to keep them afloat, or to bring them to safety, because of false doctrine. We are like in the days of old, doing that which is right in our own eyes. What a shame as the bible clearly states that 2Ti 3:16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: Did you see there friend, doctrine is listed first so that the rest may be accomplished in our lives to lead us in the way to go. It is because people are offended that they cannot handle doctrinal preaching in this day and age, what a shame. I see too many as I witness in these days that don't even have a handle on the doctrine of salvation much less anything else. This grieves me greatly because if you can't believe the way the bible says to come unto Jesus for your salvation then the rest of the teachings of scripture will in no likewise be of effect for you. Being offended keeps us from being humble, being offended keeps us from fellowship, and being offended keeps us from God. I challenge you today to earnestly seek in your heart to forgive rather than be offended, and to remember 2Ti 3:14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; 2Ti 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.

Not forsaking the assembling of yourselves together

Hbr 10:25
Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.

Good morning friends, I am in another state getting ready for my baby sisters wedding. What a joy it is for me to be gathered together with my family. I hope and pray that all goes well today. I am honored to have a part in this special occasion in my sisters life, not only that but my brother who is the pastor of The Church of the Harvest will be officiating over it. Now to my main point for what I have been thinking about along with the other things that go through this feeble mind. Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together...there are many many reasons as to why I believe the Lord had this spelled out for us in scripture. The first thing of course is so that we are reminded to bring ourselves in fellowship together to worship Him in spirit and in truth. For what would we have without the fellowship, we would all be drug down by the devil and his constant barrage of attacks. we would be overcome because we would eventually have the Word of God choked out of our lives because of no encouragement, no preaching, and no teaching. The second reason I can think of is the fact that who you hang around is what most likely what you will tend to learn from. I don't recommend hanging out with lost people and going to their places just to be a friend, as this will eventually rub off and destroy your fellowship with God, and with others because where you may end up could ruin your testimony. I am not saying don't have anybody who is lost as an acquaintance, but don't make it a point to go to the local bar to win them for Jesus. Remember we live in this world but we are not of this world, so be careful on what kind of assembling together that you do. Another point is the actual physical presence in the church house, or congregation of yourselves with other people in public, it goes to confirm that you are not ashamed of Jesus Christ and what He has done for you in your life. Assembling yourselves together in worship and adulation is just one part, the other is the fact that when you are there you are an encouragement to others to set the flesh aside and put the problems they are facing into the hands of God. I personally can tell you when I first started going to church after I was saved that when a member who was faithful didn't show up for service it kinda made me question what happened as I always enjoyed their presence after a long and tiring day of listening to the worlds garbage. I can also speak from experience that if you show up in the church house it fires up the preacher and your services will be the more fulfilling. Nothing makes me happier than to see other believers gathered together every time the church house doors are opened, I love the people, the preaching, and the power of God when He is being exalted. The power of God that I am referring to is the Lords presence in peoples lives and watching Him change us for His use. I thank God that in the United States at this point and time we are allowed to gather together to worship publicly, but my dear friends there is coming a day when we may have to secretly gather together just to worship. So you see it is that much more important that you forsake not the assembling together, as these liberties must be enjoyed while we have them. Just to finish off let me make this last point..if for anything else, we as believers have this wrote down in the Word of God, and lets admit it, we don't want to disobey God now do we? The last part of the verse says as ye see the day approaching..that my friend is in reference to that great Day of the Lord, when Jesus shall come and gather us up in Glory. Why should we miss out on the opportunity at every chance to gather together and worship Jesus in the here and now, and why shouldn't we encourage each others as believers. I know that when you are not present in the church house that, that I miss you, and I speak for my Pastor on this one too, that he misses you and is concerned for you. Friend my challenge to you today is to find yourself in the House of God at every opportunity, starting tomorrow..

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Rom 1:17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.

Dear friend I hope today has found you well and able to glorify God. I have been burdened with the words of many as I talk with them concerning their faith. Notice I didn't say religion, no because I don't care about some religion, what I care about is if you know Jesus as your personal Savior? The bible says that we are all sinners, it is by grace through faith that we are saved, not of ourselves lest any man should boast. Why dear friend would you then try to think that anything that you or me can do can merit the sacrifice for salvation? You see a lot of people I have been talking to lately put their faith in themselves, whether they want to admit to it or not. They think that they can live an incorruptible life, one in which they must not sin, and if they do then they have lost thier salvation. Well friend the more I read the bible the more I see how much of a dirty rotten sinner I am. Even when I think that I am living righteously for God there is some sin somewhere in my life, therefore I am a sinner saved by grace, nothing more. What a life I would lead as every second that God allows me to breath there is some sin in my life and I would never make it to heaven. For me to "do good things" is a deceitful lie even unto myself as the bible says there are none righteous no not one. I thank God in heaven for Jesus Christ however, the One that can cleanse me, and keep me. For my faith is in His power to uphold me and lead me, for if it wasn't for Jesus I would still be lost in the desires of my sinful heart. I have read more and more versus in the dear old blessed book about how God is able, and Jesus is able to save me, cleanse me, seal me, lead me, teach me, send me, show me, and take me through life. Not at one time in that last sentence did I say I can do anything, it is by Gods power that I am able. It is by His power and His alone that I can even call upon His name. I cannot physically see God at this moment, but by faith I know He is there, and His righteousness is revealed unto me. I also know that the just shall live by faith, that is trusting Jesus. Trusting Jesus to forgive me when I have done wrong, trusting Jesus to make a way of escape when temptation from this flesh is before me, trusting Jesus to be my all in all, for it is not by myself that I can do anything. In reference to salvation, I am trusting Jesus and the word of God as to the finished work on the cross of Calvary, that I may believe on Him that died on the cross and as Jesus said "It is finished". No more do I have to worry about death, and the grave, as I will be caught up in Glory with Him and receive an incorruptible body, one without spot or blemish. This of course is not until that day when the trump of God shall sound and all the dead in Christ shall rise. Until then friend we should continue in the things that the bible teaches, being a witness to all that God has written for our lives that others may know of our Blessed Redeemer Jesus Christ. It is by the blood that was shed for me by Jesus that I can be reconciled unto God and come into fellowship with Him, nothing I could have done, nor nothing that I still do can change the fact that my salvation is in the hands of the Lord Jesus Christ and Him alone. I am a child of the King and entered into the family of God the father. I am His son, thruough Jesus Christ, by faith alone.

We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you

Col 1:3 We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,

Good morning friends, after a wonderful night of service in church and a message that allowed me to meditate a little more on God, versus me, I came across this in my heart today. I am so glad that I have the opportunity to pray for others and the ability to bring these requests before God through Jesus Christ our Savior. There are some that are in need today that are very close friends, and I would that you pray with me that God would have His will and way in their lives. Last night after hearing some great preaching from Pastor Tony at Calvary Baptist Church, I was convicted about the verse he choose to use for his message. Mar 6:52 For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened. He brought our a great point in the fact we are so quick to forget what God has done in our lives. So after a storm blew through last night one of our church members had a leaky roof, and because God has always been gracious to me, he allowed me to learn some roofing skills from a dear brother in south Georgia. Now I would like to thank this dear brother because if it wasn't for his care and compassion when I was a little younger and ignorant I probably would have never been able to help out last night. It meant a lot to me in my heart to give back a little in life as my dear brother has given to me during my times of need, so I thank you for putting up with me, our family misses your family and we love ya'll. Getting back to the point of not considering the miracle of the loaves, this hit me in the heart and immediately I started meditating on the things the Lord has done for me, boy what a mighty God we serve. Not only did Jesus save me, he sanctified me, not only sanctified, but sealed me unto that glorious day of His return. That's just the beginning friends, it would probably take 5 volumes to fill in just the past few years of my life.
So today I wanted to just focus on giving God the glory and the thanks for all that he has done. There are many rough days in our lives, but as the preacher said last night, maybe if we look to what God has done those things won't matter. You know the more I think as I type I just want to thank God for sending somebody my way for giving me the gospel truth, for if it wasn't for that invitation to accept Jesus as my personal Savior then this post would never be able to be written. Friend I would also like to pray with you for your needs in Gods time and His will.
Eph 3:16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man;
So now I would like to say thank you to Jesus for allowing me to accept His sacrifice for the remission of my sins, and that through Him I may have eternal life and fellowship with God in heaven.

Lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears

Act 28:27 For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.

Well it has finally begun, the Christmas blast. I have never heard so much ridiculousness in my life. I had a women barge into my office today telling me I had to buy pointsettas, and telling me she was intent on having me bring "Santa Claus" to our Christmas party. Friend, if you still believe in some joker who magically intrudes into your house to bring gifts I am sorry. This also goes for the fact that not only do some worship this thing, but they also offer up food and drink (could be idol worship eh?) All this from professing Christians no less, not even a hint of glorifying God for sending His Son to this earth born of a virgin that day. Now I understand that most people worship out of ignorance, but from ones that never miss church it blows my mind. I couldn't keep my mouth shut any longer and I informed this dear believer that there was no such thing as "Santa". Her response was, My momma told me to always believe and I'll receive so I believe in him. Boy if we could ever muster enough spiritual fortitude to worship the Lord Jesus Christ the way we worship some of the heathen idols in our lives then we could possibly see a change. Now I know most of you will say what harm does it do to teach them of this? Well my dear friend, for one lets not begin our childrens lives by lying to them. Secondly, how in the world are you going to put your faith into something that has no interest in your life other than to bring a "gift" to you once a year and do this by judging all your actions throughout the year. Well my friend I would rather put my faith in the Lord who gave His life as a gift for all eternity, rather than in some materialistic thing once a year. The Bible says Eph 2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
Please don't misunderstand me I love these dear people, I just pray that they will put this stuff behind them and worship the one and only true God-Jehovah. I will try to have a better subject for tommorow but I just couldn't hold it in any longer on the foolishness of people who worship pagen ideas. Just in case anybody does wonder, I don't believe in the "easter bunny", "tooth fairy", and "trick or treating" either. To this I can only bring about the following verses at the moment as to idols. 2Co 6:15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 2Co 6:16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 2Co 6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. 2Co 6:18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God

Rom 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Friends good day to you, as I have been studying I am looking at trying to grow in the faith and strive for maturity. As I read through Romans I came across this verse that is so encouraging, however the more I read it and meditated upon it, I was convicted of a few things. What I would like to do is break down what has been brought before me and be an encouragement to you today. I hear this verse like so many others mistreated and only halfway explained. First I would like to say that if you are not a child of God, i.e. Born Again as the bible states, then this verse will do you no good, no matter who says it to you, or how many times you may repeat it as some chant.Now I want to look at this sentence in its entirety and attempt to break this out.
And we know...we see here that we can know, and have faith in the word God at this point and juncture because it has been proven. It has been proven by the saints before, that through trial and tribulation that Paul was able to overcome, it was proven when Jesus our Savior was hung on the cross of Calvary that all might be saved. These two points show that we can know because of past experiences no matter how troubled they may have seem to been, they worked out for the glory of God and His purpose. Friend there should be no doubt in this verse as you and I also have been through trials and temptations, and in the end if you study it out completely you will see that it did work out for the good.That all things work..again all things work, there is a moving action behind this statement. God does not just allow things to happen in our lives, they work in our lives. Whether it be to bring some evil out, or to add grace in, situations are constantly at work in our lives.Work Together... this goes to show that they are synonymously working, there is no single working. As to the situation there is a reaction, therefore there must be a working together. During that working together it is the event that triggers the heart and mind to make a reaction. It is both of these stimuli that lets God work in our lives, either by obedience to His word or disobedience therefore allowing Him to receive the glory. You may ask how does God receive the glory through our disobedience, well friend, it just goes to prove Gods word is true, there are none righteous, no not one, and we are all in need of a Savior, Jesus Christ. Through our disobedience God is allowed to work in our lives proving His love for us. For Good...while we see the different elements at work here in this verse I love to talk about the goodness of God. It was His long suffering that allowed us time for repentance. Rom 2:4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance? You see whether in riches, or poverty it is the goodness of God that leadeth. The other goodness is the manifold grace that is allowed to work in our lives, instructing us as we continue to walk with God in our daily bible reading and prayer time. The good that comes out of it is another step towards maturity able to accept situations for what they are, and learn to lean not to thy own understanding. To them that love God...you see here friend is when it starts to make application to our lives as Christians. I cannot see where people can encourage a nonbeliever with this verse as it pertains to those that love God. How do the lost know of the love of God if they have never put their trust in Him for their own salvation? Shame on the preacher that would write books, and preach from the pulpit to a lost and dying world that everything will be just OK because of half this verse. I would rather have them read the whole verse and use every word as I am trying to today. Maybe you are lost today friend and are trying to understand this verse and why things don't work out in your life, just go to your knees today, and call upon the name of the Lord Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, then you can begin to understand what is that love that God had for you, and the love you can have for Him. To them who are called according to His purpose...once born again dear friend you will have been called, you may not exactly understand it now, however the call is a to a life of maturity and holiness that only the Lord can provide through Him and His love. Believer you are called to be a witness for Jesus Christ, and with that being said there will be many days and situations that this verse will apply in its fullness.

Sinner I love you today and maybe you have read this and feel led to just bow your head and ask the Lord Jesus Christ into your heart that you might be forgiven of all your sins because of the finished work on the cross of Calvary, or Saint you may be going through a trial or tribulation, but be strong and of a good courage because the Lord knows your needs and is willing and able to meet them.

And what shall I more say?

Heb 11:32 And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets:

What a wonderful weekend that God allowed me to have. Saturday started off with a great time of prayer and fellowship with the men of the church. We gathered together and went out to go plinking, what a joy to have fun and be safe. The next greatest thing that day was a surprise visit by my folks, where they were able to spend the night and join us for church the next morning. What a wonderful service we had in the AM as the Pastor brought a message from his heart about the sacrifice of the soldier in honor of our men and women in the Armed Forces. The message was likened to ourselves as we are enlisted when we join the family of God into the Lords Army. I am not speaking of some type of radical double talk, but the sincerity of which we that love God will do as a soldier does. As our daily verse shows, and what shall I say more, there is to much to say about God and His people in one post so I will sum up what has been on my hear throughout the day.

1. In America's army it is an all volunteer fighting force, to be in the Lords army it is a free conscience decision to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior. Then the enlistment begins.
2. In America's army you don't just become the leader there is much training involved and time to prove yourself, in the Lords army you aren't automatically some spiritual giant ready to take on the devil and the whole world alone, you must read your bible and pray, be built up in the faith. It's a growing process.
3. In America's army it is a battle for physical territory, in the Lords army its a battle for spiritual territory. The battle is for our hearts against the wiles of the devil.
4. In America's army it takes dedication, discipline, and a desire to serve to be effective, in the Lords army it also takes dedication to do the things that normally you wouldn't want to do, discipline to read your bible, pray and be humble, and a desire to serve versus always being chided to do the things mentioned, for out of the heart come the issues of life. God would want you to give your all willingly.
5. In America's army as you learn to lead you teach others to follow and train them, in the Lords army we are to be learning to do so that we may teach others to be.

To begin the enlistment in the army of the United States of America there is an oath that is taken. It goes something like this:

"I, _____, do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God."

Now dear reader you may say what of this, well I just wanted you to take a challenge and see the wording of this document and apply it to your lives as a Christian. When you join the military you are no longer a single entity, no you are a team, a family if you will. The same goes when you join into fellowship with one another in serving the Lord, your a family of believers, and there ought to be some sort of dedication to our lives in the way we devote ourselves to God and to each other. In the oath of enlistment you see that the enlistee recognizes a few things in order for them to become effective soldiers.
1. They will defend a document from an enemy whether it be foreign or domestic, we as Christians should read enough of our Bible that we can defend its values and commandments from an enemy both foreign (those that don't inhabit our land) and domestic (those that would try from within our own borders to eradicate the Word of God).
2. The soldier will bear faith (trust) and allegiance (the loyalty of a citizen to his or her government or of a subject to his or her sovereign.), we should bear a loyalty to the Lord Jesus Christ and trust Him for all that He has done and is willing to do in our lives.
3. The soldier affirms this to positions of authority, setting themselves and their desires aside for the use of those in authority, we as Christians should be heeded to God and His perfect will for our lives. This also goes for the man of God in the pulpit, that we have a commitment to him as the under shepherd, the man appointed of God to lead. We should set our selfish desires aside and bear our cross for the work that needs to be done.
4. The soldier has a set of rules that he must attain to so that he knows how to conduct himself, not only in battle, but in everyday service, we as Christians have a set of rules and those are contained in the Word of God, the bible in its entirety.

Friend I hope this was a blessing today to see that as much as there is a service man willing to forsake all for the good of his country, that there are those in the Christian life willing to forsake all for their heavenly father. We must not forget the ultimate soldier however was the Lord Jesus Christ, as he bore his cross in willful desire that none should perish, but all come unto repentance for their sins. Jesus lead the way, and made the way that we can enter into His rest through the shedding of His blood on the cross of Calvary.

My grace is sufficient for thee:

2Co 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.

Good morning friends and saints. I am troubled in heart as I have been praying as to what the Lord would have me study next for my morning studies. Right now there is much on my mind and heart about suffering. There are a lot of people suffering today, not only in health, but in spiritual agony. The Lord said that there would be suffering in our lives, I believe it is how we react to that suffering is what we will get out of it. It is very easy dear Christian to get the wrong attitude during our trials and temptations, our physical infirmities, and also our spiritual lives. There is the suffering of the Godly that draws us ever closer to the Lord Jesus, depending on His grace and mercy to bring us through, it is during these times that our walk is usually the closest and most precious. When we are brought through we can rejoice in the Lord and not of ourselves. In 2 Corinthians 12:9 I was encouraged because of the Lords response how personal it was, he said "for thee". My Lord and Savior knows exactly what is troubling me and He will bring you and I through, though at the time it may seem an eternity, we must stay drawn nigh unto Him. Not all suffering is bad, as it teaches us to have compassion for others, and many of the times it is to get something out of our lives that we may become stronger. Another instance is suffering for the Lord Jesus Christ as He has said that those who live Godly shall suffer persecution. There are many examples and things dealing with suffering, and no way for me to cover all in one post. I would that you pray along with me today for those that are suffering that they may be comforted in Christ Jesus, and that according to His will and timing the suffering can be turned to joy. I like the book of Job, a man that suffered beyond many of us in our lives in America, or in our Christian lives I should say. Even through it all Job refused to curse God, for Job knew in the day that he would curse God, then God would surly not deliver Him from his problems. Friend if you are suffering today do not fear, for we have the promise of our Savior Jesus Christ, as He hath said..I will never leave you or nor forsake you. Keep your heart clean and talk with Him that you may be comforted in your time of need. The Lord desires to hear from you that He may prove that He is not a liar. Now it would not do the Lord Jesus Christ justice if I did not mention also though that the infirmity you have may be there for His glory; how's that you say? Well if we look at the life of Paul he had an infirmity that evidently made him suffer, in fact his suffering was enough to petition the Lord three times, and the Lord in His grace, wisdom and mercy responded with...And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: Depend on the Lord and He shall see you through, that the end thereof you may be established and built up in the faith resting in the promises of Jesus our Redeemer.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ:

Rom 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

Good morning readers, and I hope this days post will find you well and looking forward to another glorious day that the Lord God has extended His grace and mercy to this earth that we may tell others. What do we have to tell others about you may say? The love of God, the warning of the judgement of God, the longsuffering of God, and above all else 2Pe 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. Friends we are to be occupying this earth until the glorious return of the Lord Jesus Christ, that one day when the trumpet sounds we shall be caught up with Him. This occupying is to be busy, we are to be proclaiming the gospel to every nation, tongue and tribe under heaven. Now when I read this passage this morning I have stated it before, I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. Well just of emphasis I will repeat it again..the gospel of Christ. You see I believe that there are some afraid to explain the gospel in the truth of the matter and just so I am clear here is my belief of the gospel...
1. Christ was the Messiah, born of a virgin. (notice I didn't say a young lady, or young woman,
no friend the bible was pretty clear a virgin.)
2. Christ lived a sinless life in the flesh, tempted as we were tempted yet without sin.
3. Christ was nailed to the cross on Calvary, shedding His blood for the sins of the world.
4. Christ won the victory over death, hell, and the grave.
5. Christ went to the grave having His body laid in a tomb.
6. Christ rose again on the third day in the flesh, and ascended to heaven after forty days being
seen of many.
7. Christ is seated on the right hand of God the Father, until that day when He shall return in all
power and glory and reign forever as King of Kings, and Lord of Lords.

Now friends be not deceived as all those that speak of the Lord Jesus would have somewhat against what I said because they do not agree with that as the gospel message, no instead they preach another gospel. We have heard of the prosperous gospel, the gospel that only applies to a certain class of people, the gospel of works, and even that tainted gospel of election. Some big theologians and even great TV personalities won't even preach the whole counsel of God, they will dodge and turn around every corner when it comes to this message afraid of what the Lord has said concerning this. The gospel is a whosoever gospel for in the following versus we see Joh 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Now when I say that some would not preach the whole counsel of God, let us examine the verse following Joh 3:17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. Joh 3:18 He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. You see friend its not about how great I can be, or how much money I can make, or what things I do, and believe it or not there is NOTHING that I can even say to make you or myself feel any better to make it sound like the gospel. Here then is the point I am trying to make, there is a choice, and that choice is of free will, today you have the opportunity to stop and read for yourselves whether this be true or not. The world says "there is a way" emphasis on the word way, for there are many ways to do things....but the Word of God says in John 14:6 Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me. If we look to those that proclaim a false gospel there are those that also will not even preach what we deserve (Hell) and do no justice to the gospel message, that those who don't believe are condemned already, you see they don't want to bring up the fact that it was Jesus who did this for them, no instead they are putting their faith in how good they can be, or what type of experience you can have with the Lord. The only thing I remember is that I was a sinner in need of a Savior, I accepted that fact, and when I came to that point and place in my life and confessed to the Lord Jesus Christ my sins and asked for repentance and accepted His atoning sacrifice on the cross, did I receive forgiveness of my sins and received Him as my Lord and Savior that I may have everlasting life. This message is for you today friend, for you know not the day, the time, or the hour that the Lord would return, what would He find you doing today? Wherever on this planet you may read this, I beg you to consider your ways, and look at the biblical way to what I have said and accept that free gift of salvation, that I may rejoice with you in heaven.

And they said, We are witnesses

Jos 24:22 And Joshua said unto the people, Ye are witnesses against yourselves that ye have chosen you the LORD, to serve him. And they said, We are witnesses.

Here we are at the last recorded dealings with Joshua and Israel. In the 40 years that he was the general, we also saw him as their spiritual leader. He was confirmed by God in sight of Israel and the children listened. In Chp 23 we saw Joshua bring the leaders together and encourage them to lead in the proper manner, now he brings the tribes together along with the leaders to give them the last challenge of his life. Joshua begins by presenting the nation of Israel in sight of the Lord and reminds them how God had chosen them, as in times past their forefathers didn't seek the Lord as they were serving other gods. Friend it is the same in our life, I don't remember looking for Jesus when He found me. It was because I was a sinner in need of a savior that He came my way and offered His life in my place for the remission of my sins, all I had to do was accept that atoning sacrifice. Joshua then reminds them how thier nation was born through the mud pits and bondage of Egypt, but by God hand they were delivered out and sent to possess a land that they did not labour for, and cities that they did not build. This land was prepared for them, just as our heavenly home is being prepared for us by the Lord Jesus Christ. You see Jesus said he would never leave us or forsake us, and I can't remember a day in my life when He hasn't provided all the necessities in life for me..food, clothing, and a roof over my head. The Bible says to only trust Him, which in the Old Testament is a New Testament word for faith. Joshua then reminds them of Gods great care and His commandments to be #1 in their lives, if they would just put away all other gods and serve the Lord Jehovah then and only then would God continue to bless them above all measure, however if they decided that they wanted to serve other gods then they would be removed. Now all this was done in the sight of the leaders, the judges, and the tribes (people). I believe this was done so that all were in one accord as God is a God of order and free will. I believe God was giving them the option as a nation to make a decision, today friend you have a decision to make, will you accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal savior and walk in fellowship with Him, or will you harden your heart and continue to serve the world and things contained therein? Remember it is appointed unto men to die once then the judgement, you never know when that hour, nay that minute may be where your life is over on this earth. Is it really worth it to fumble around and try to gain worldly possession and prestige? All the things gained today can in an instance be gone tomorrow. What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world and loose his own soul? I praise God in the presence of Joshua and in the sight of God the nation of Israel choose the Lord. They affirmed this by stating Jos 24:21 And the people said unto Joshua, Nay; but we will serve the LORD. They were sincere, they were setting themselves on the right track, now they must prepare for the next steps in their lives. In the beginning of the book of Joshua there is a death, and here at the end there are two. We see in the beginning it was with the death of Moses that brought Joshua in the position of leadership, and here at the end it is the death of Joshua, and the death of Eleazar the son of Aaron has died. Notice at the end of the book that there is no one commissioned to replace them, it is up to the children of Israel and their leaders, the judges to maintain what was done that day. Friend I hope that today would be the day, that like the children of Israel when challenged with the question of choose you this day whom ye will serve.. you would humble yourself if you haven't and call upon the name of the Lord Jesus Christ that you may have eternal life and that I may rejoice with you in your decision and we will once day be brought up together in that Holy city prepared for you and me to worship at the feet of our King.

Be ye therefore very courageous to keep and to do all that is written

Jos 23:6 Be ye therefore very courageous to keep and to do all that is written in the book of the law of Moses, that ye turn not aside therefrom to the right hand or to the left;

Joshua is coming to the end of his life, but before he goes on he knows that there is much yet to do and say to secure the hearts of the Israelites. Joshua calls on the leadership for a meeting, what a joy it must have been to look out on the people that were willing to follow God. There were in attendance all those able to make a difference by leading the people. I pray today for our president and our leaders no matter what position they may be in, that's right folks I also pray for my boss and my boss's boss. Here we have an opportunity to show that we have humility for those in a position over us, let us do it with meekness. Jesus was meek, but effective, a lot of people confuse meekness with weakness, but what a difference there is. As Joshua gathers together the leaders he begins to give the nation some advice in order to follow after God whole heartily.
1. Do not mix with the other nations. (Joshua knew in so doing that their false
religions and unconverted hearts would ruin what God was doing)
2. Take heed unto yourselves. (Serve the Lord God with all your hearts, mind, and
soul. Take caution lest you fall, and in so doing have others fall with you)
These were just two of the many exhortations given unto the leaders, for as the Bible says.."unto whom much is given, much is required". I have learned that all things rise and fall on leadership. Leaders are to be training leaders to replace themselves, as was Joshua here. They didn't know it but he was giving them ample instruction on how to carry on after he was gone. Leaders who grow in pride and try to horde knowledge and power unto themselves are ignorant, so is today's modern society of "I know more than you do". Folks we are to be helping one another, it is just like in the Word of God when it comes to salvation, why should I leave that hid in my heart so others wouldn't know what the Lord Jesus Christ has done for me? Is it not a commission from the Lord to Go ye therefore...if the gospel be hid, it is hid from them that are lost. Be a leader, take those steps to get out in your Jerusalem, and work your way to the uttermost, train others to go door knocking, teach others how to witness. Now Joshua also had instructed them not only of their responsibility as leaders, but, their responsibility if they failed in doing as leaders. Notice the following..Else if ye do in any wise go back, and cleave unto the remnant of these nations, even these that remain among you, and shall make marriages with them, and go in unto them, and they to you: Know for a certainty that the LORD your God will no more drive out any of these nations from before you; but they shall be snares and traps unto you, and scourges in your sides, and thorns in your eyes, until ye perish from off this good land which the LORD your God hath given you. Friends this was a light exhortation to ensure that his point was being made, DO NOT MIX with the unbelieving nations. The same goes today as we have such an issue with young folks who do not know the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior and get married to one that does, the Bible says..2Co 6:14 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? If it goes wrong in the beginning, don't expect it to get any better. Leaders of today the same message applies in our commitments, and leagues, and partnerships...be ye not unequally yoked. Remember the unbelieving do not look at situations, or life in the same way you do, so naturally they don't respond the same way as we think they ought to.

And they possessed it, and dwelt therein.

Jos 21:43 And the LORD gave unto Israel all the land which he sware to give unto their fathers; and they possessed it, and dwelt therein.

We see from chapters 14-23 the dividing of the land amongst the tribes as the Lord had promised. Now they weren't completely finished with the conquest in every part, but a majority was taken. In chapter 20 we see the cities of refuge that were set up for the people as Moses commanded, and the dividing of the 48 cities for the Levites, for we have read that they should have no land to posses. The Levites inheritance was a city out of each tribe, where they would be priests and serve from. In Chapter 22 we see the return of the two and a half tribes to the original land on the other side Jordan that was also promised by Moses. Unfortunately during their travels back over there was a misunderstanding between the congregation of Israel, and the two and a half tribes. There was an alter raised and ever so watchful the children of Israel had mistaken it for an alter to false God's. Now friend I thank God that Israel had enough sense to pay attention to these things and challenge the intent behind this, as to many people raise up things in Christendom that are false, and we allow it to happen. Let us take the mixing of false teaching today that seems to be rampant unto many, the people do not have the fortitude today as there was in the past to question the things that go on, no instead we want to embrace all these unbiblical themes so we can feel more spiritual. Christian Yoga is not Christian, Scientology cannot be married to Christian virtues or the tenets of the faith. 2Co 6:15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? Remember dear friends, we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ for the finished work on the cross of Calvary, the shedding of His blood for the remission of our sins. Christ paid a debt that we could not pay, and He did this for us, not that this old wretch, or any of us for that matter deserved it. What religion has had their god die in their place that they may have everlasting life? What religion has had their god lower themselves to walk among men in sinlessness, only to go before others and be falsely accused and beaten, and hung for all the world to know that it was grace that saved us! What other religion with your idols who have eyes and see not, mouths which speak not, and ears and hear not have ever had you in mind to provide for you? I get excited when I read in the Bible of the people in their times that took a stand for the things that were wrong against God. There are too many sissy footed folk out there today who know to do right, and what is right from wrong and don't speak out against it for fear. Friend in love we ought to expose the false teachings and doctrines that have polluted our worship of a Holy God. Take a stand as the children of Israel did, if the preacher isn't preaching from the old blessed book, then get out of there and pray that God would lead you to a bible believing church. When I say bible believing I mean a good old fashioned King James bible, none of these loose perversions of today's feel good crowd. The congregation of Israel questioned this alter, and upon further examination found it to be raised as a memorial to Jehovah God, as a witness between them that the Lord is God. I challenge you today to raise up an alter in your home, not of brick and stone, but one in your hearts that the Lord is God, live a life submitted to the Lord Jesus Christ that others may know that it is He that loved you and saved you. Friend I encourage you to search the Scriptures daily, walk with God, and pray. These are the things that will draw us closer to Him and allow His Word to penetrate our hearts that we might not be led astray by false teachers after worldly gain. The bible says in Romans; But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 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. I like the children of Israel who were not ashamed of their God, am not ashamed of the Lord Jesus Christ. I hope and pray today would be the day that you would read this and turn from the things that are false, and look unto the Lord Jesus for salvation. Once you have received the Lord as your personal savior, then you to can possess it (eternal life) and dwell therein...

but I wholly followed the LORD my God.

Jos 14:8 Nevertheless my brethren that went up with me made the heart of the people melt: but I wholly followed the LORD my God.

Good day to all, as I have been reading in chapter 14 of our daily walk I came across this verse and it stuck with me. But I wholly followed the LORD my God. You see Caleb was a young man when he and Joshua went forth to spy out the land, and as Joshua was commissioned to lead the people of Israel, Caleb was promised a portion of the land because of his steadfastness. I would that we all would set it in our hearts to wholly follow Jesus, just as this man did through trial and tribulation following God no doubt. When you look at Caleb's life he could have just gotten jealous because of Joshua's position, however Caleb just stayed the course, you see friend he knew of the promise from God, and he looked to raise his children in that blessed land. The Bible says Luk 9:62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. I don't believe that Caleb looked back, he wiped the sweat from his brow and dug in harder and went forward, there was a possession to receive. There are many days that we need to just dig in and settle it in our hearts and minds, no matter what may come against us, we will serve the Lord. As Paul came up against many things in his walk that could have discouraged him, he said...for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. Paul wholly followed the Lord, and we to can overcome the things that set before us through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Because the other spies heart did melt, and Caleb had faith the inheritance fell toward him, he loved his God and it showed through the length of time that he served. Even during the time of rest Caleb still had enough in him to say... As yet I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me: as my strength was then, even so is my strength now, for war, both to go out, and to come in. Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spoke in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims were there, and that the cities were great and fenced: if so be the LORD will be with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said. Faith in God, and heart to serve my friends is where this mans character showed through. Let us look to ourselves and see where we stand today and make a commitment to wholly follow the Lord.

and the LORD said unto him, Thou art old and stricken in years

Jos 13:1 Now Joshua was old and stricken in years; and the LORD said unto him, Thou art old and stricken in years, and there remaineth yet very much land to be possessed.

The once young and vibrant general has now come to a point and place, where after all the battles are subdued for a little while and there is rest, there is now time for reflection. In this chapter we see the Lord has called upon Joshua and told him of his plight, thou art old and stricken in years, but still there is much to do. There is no way that Joshua could carry on these battles in his condition, there needs to be another to grab the mantle and go forward. As Joshua entered into Moses work, he now can be as Moses was provided for. Now this doesn't give excuse friend for us to just lay down and never do anything for the Lord just because we are older and more mature, for as the Lord said there remaineth yet very much land to be possessed. In the older saints lives there is much to accomplish, may we as long as we have breath give honor and glory to God, and labour until that final day that the Lord calls us home. I would like also bring to the attention that Joshua was the oldest along with Caleb in the nation at this time. Here again I would like to bring out the point of older age that it is to be used to pass down to the younger generations the lessons of life, the encouragement of the many things that were accomplished, and the joy of serving the Lord. If you have been around for any length of time, and you have not received the Lord Jesus as your savior, then today could be the day Friend as what a shame it would be to add an extra day to your life, another gray hair, or another pain in the bones of the body and never experience the peace of God during this life. Remember Heb 9:27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: How sad it would be to miss out on the Lord Jesus Christ because you say I am old and stricken in age, I cannot accept Him because it's just too late, you don't know what I have done. Friend that's all right, I sure don't know the things you may have done, but Jesus does, and He is willing to forgive you if you confess your sins to Him and ask Him as your personal Saviour. It's never to late in life to accept Him, if you will just call upon His name for the remission of sins, trusting, and believing. Now Joshua wasn't down and out, no he still had many things to do before it is his time to retire, he knew that he must do the things that he was ordained to do quickly in his service to the Lord. There is still much land that the Lord was ready to give unto the children of Israel, and Joshua begins by explaining some of the property to them and promising them that it will be theirs. Again we see the importance of the geography of this land, and how even today it plays a major role in current events. Those that are not in the know often wonder why this area in the middle east is in much turmoil, but if we would study our Bibles and not skip these chapters with names and places then we would come to understand more.

These are the Kings of the lands...All the Kings thirty and one

Jos 12:1 Now these are the kings of the land, which the children of Israel smote, and possessed their land on the other side Jordan toward the rising of the sun, from the river Arnon unto mount Hermon, and all the plain on the east: Jos 12:7 And these are the kings of the country which Joshua and the children of Israel smote on this side Jordan on the west, from Baalgad in the valley of Lebanon even unto the mount Halak, that goeth up to Seir; which Joshua gave unto the tribes of Israel for a possession according to their divisions;

Now we see here friends, that the Lord is a God of order. We look at this chapter and say brother, so what of the names of all these folks. Well it just so happens that our Lord took time out to mention them so I believe it is our duty to understand why. If we look at this more closely we will notice that the list started at Jericho, and then worked it's way to the final conquest. These kings were many in number in just a small portion of the world. If the land flowing with milk and honey could support this many nations then imagine what it must be like to just have inherited this area? Glory to God, as he not only gave the Israelites some dirt, he gave them everything they needed to be prosperous, and to live. As I read through, some of these places jump out at you, the kings were in cities that are later mentioned in the Bible, take Kedesh for example, it was made into one of the Levitical cities of refuge. Not only does God list these in order, but he lists every kings name thirty one to be exact. They are known unto God, just as we are known unto Him. Whether we live for Him, or against Him it is irrefutable that He knows us. As the God in heaven upon His throne He has established all things for His glory. What a God I would serve if He didn't know me. At one point in my life I didn't know Him, but since the Lord is gracious and long suffering He knew me enough to send His very Son Jesus to die for the remission, and atonement of my sins, that I might have fellowship again. Not only do we see that the Lord knows us, but He provides for us. Look at the terrain that was taken in these conquests. There were the valleys, the rivers and the mountains. The valleys good enough the grow the best of crops, the rivers to feed these areas with refreshing waters, and the mountains a natural barrier and protectant to the people. The same goes for us today as we rush about in our jobs and our lives to chase after the things of this world, what a shame if we could only learn how to be content with what God has provided us. Mat 6:25-32 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. Has it not been proven time and again starting with the children in Israel, until today in present times, have faith in God. Hopefully we have all seen that God knows us and is willing that none should perish, but all come unto repentance. If it were not for God and His mercy and grace, these pieces of history would never had made it this far for us to understand Him more clearly.