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God's Love and God's Hand

7/3/2022

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14 if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land."
2 Chronicles 7:14

Our country has had God's hand on it, but this is going to end if we don't turn back to God. Look at all the awful stuff happening in our country. This is the beginning of God's judgment. God's righteous right hand -- the favor of God. We have been protected by all kinds of evil. But, if we don't turn back He will discipline us. 

"25 Worship the Lord your God, and his blessing will be on your food and water. I will take away sickness from among you,
 26 and none will miscarry or be barren in your land. I will give you a full life span." Exodus 23:25-26

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord,

    the people he chose for his inheritance." Psalm 33:12

The United States -- it was built on Christian truth. It wasn't until the 1960s that people began saying this wasn't true. We were the first country to ever break away from a Super Power successfully. All state constitutions mention God. God ordained us to be a light to the nations, to this world. We are mocking Him with our flagrant sin and our choices. Look at what our country is putting out into the world. 

The Beginning Lines of the Declaration of Independence:
"When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness."

God has given us warnings against falling away from God. 

13 The Lord warned Israel and Judah through all his prophets and seers: “Turn from your evil ways. Observe my commands and decrees, in accordance with the entire Law that I commanded your ancestors to obey and that I delivered to you through my servants the prophets.” 2 Kings 17:13

God is warning us. We see the lessons in history. He warned his people over and over but they insisted on ignoring those warnings. One thing they did was worship Baal who demanded child sacrifice. Not much different than what people do now -- abortion on demand. Killing children for own benefit. 

"12 Jehoiachin king of Judah, his mother, his attendants, his nobles and his officials all surrendered to him. In the eighth year of the reign of the king of Babylon, he took Jehoiachin prisoner. 13 As the Lord had declared, Nebuchadnezzar removed the treasures from the temple of the Lord and from the royal palace, and cut up the gold articles that Solomon king of Israel had made for the temple of the Lord. 14 He carried all Jerusalem into exile: all the officers and fighting men, and all the skilled workers and artisans—a total of ten thousand. Only the poorest people of the land were left. 15 Nebuchadnezzar took Jehoiachin captive to Babylon. He also took from Jerusalem to Babylon the king’s mother, his wives, his officials and the prominent people of the land. 16 The king of Babylon also deported to Babylon the entire force of seven thousand fighting men, strong and fit for war, and a thousand skilled workers and artisans. 17 He made Mattaniah, Jehoiachin’s uncle, king in his place and changed his name to Zedekiah. 18 Zedekiah was twenty-one years old when he became king, and he reigned in Jerusalem eleven years. His mother’s name was Hamutal daughter of Jeremiah; she was from Libnah. 19 He did evil in the eyes of the Lord, just as Jehoiakim had done. 20 It was because of the Lord’s anger that all this happened to Jerusalem and Judah, and in the end he thrust them from his presence." 2 Kings 24:12-24

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord,
    the people he chose for his inheritance." Psalm 33:12

Is that us, the United States, now? No!

There was another time in history where we wouldn't discuss differences with each other; when all we did was divide ourselves and see others as enemies -- the Civil War. We lost more men in that war than ALL the wars combined America has been part of (and that doesn't include civilians). 

God has no use for America if we don't serve Him. 


"Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." Galatians 6:7


"18 The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness, 19 since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. 20 For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. 21 For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. 22 Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools" Romans 1:18-22

Sound familiar?

God's love is waiting for our return. 

9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9

What do we do?

"19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord, 20 and that he may send the Messiah, who has been appointed for you—even Jesus." Acts 3:19-20

AND PRAY!!!

"2 I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people-- 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. 3 This is good, and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all people. This has now been witnessed to at the proper time." 1 Timothy 2:1-6
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Absolute Truth

6/26/2022

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"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."
2 Timothy 3:16-17

We live in the post-truth society -- now what matters is how people feel. Even science is no longer based on absolute truth -- We need to get back to absolute truth. Start with

#1 The bible. It has never been disproven. In fact, the more that is found the more it is proven. 
We, in this country, are reaping what we have sown. But we can still turn back to God. 



#2 Jesus Christ.

He was and is. Not a question that He existed. And He left no room for us to just think him as a teacher or a moral person. We either accept Him as the Son of God or not.

No one comes to the Father except through Jesus Christ. 


#3 Follow His Commands.

“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you." Matthew 5:11-12

We will get persecuted. We won't be popular.


"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16

We need to let our lights shine!

"But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?" Matthew 5:44-46

We need to love our enemies -- love everyone.

When the crowds heard this, they were astonished at his teaching.

"34 Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. 35 One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: 36 “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” 37 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’[a] 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[b] 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.'" Matthew 22:33-40

Start with loving God and then loving people.

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Jehova Tsaba -- Warrior

6/12/2022

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"David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied." 1 Samuel 17:45

One of God's names is Jehova Tsaba -- the Warrior God. Jesus is also the Warrior God! Always has been. And will come back this way.


 "Then Moses and the Israelites sang this song to the Lord:
“I will sing to the Lord,
    for he is highly exalted.
Both horse and driver
    he has hurled into the sea.

2 “The Lord is my strength and my defense[a];
    he has become my salvation.
He is my God, and I will praise him,
    my father’s God, and I will exalt him.
3 The Lord is a warrior;
    the Lord is his name." Exodus 15:1-3

(This is the first published poet by a woman)

Here God saves His people. They are not warriors. They've been slaves for hundreds of years. That's all they know. He is showing them Himself as a Warrior, a Fighter on their behalf.


"David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied." 1 Samuel 17:45

Here God's name is Jehova Sabaoth which means Lord of Hosts or Lord of the Angel Armies.

Lord Almighty = Warrior God.


"This is what the Lord says,
he who appoints the sun
    to shine by day,
who decrees the moon and stars
    to shine by night,
who stirs up the sea
    so that its waves roar--
    the Lord Almighty is his name:" Jeremiah 31:35

God is a God of Power.


"Lift up your heads, you gates;
    be lifted up, you ancient doors,
    that the King of glory may come in.
8 Who is this King of glory?
    The Lord strong and mighty,
    the Lord mighty in battle.
9 Lift up your heads, you gates;
    lift them up, you ancient doors,
    that the King of glory may come in." Psalm 24:7-9 

The War Continues today


"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand." Ephesians 6:12-13

We're serving the Warrior God. If you have a commander you respect you will do anything for Him. 

Jesus does not smell like hand lotion! We need to remember who He really is -- a Warrior. He is not wimpy. Not a doormat. He is mighty\ 

"36 Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.” 37 “You are a king, then!” said Pilate. Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.'" John 18:36-37

He speaks with authority. He always speaks with authority. He never backs down. He is the Lion of Judah:


"5 Then one of the elders said to me, “Do not weep! See, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has triumphed. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.'" Revelation 5:5

Jesus will come back as a conqueroring Warrior.

A king’s rage is like the roar of a lion,

    but his favor is like dew on the grass." Proverbs 19:12

He voluntarily became the Lamb. He surrendered His power to save us. He was still the Son of God.

The Return of the King!

"I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war. 12 His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. 13 He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. 14 The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean." Revelation 19:11-14

Jesus challenged Leaders.

 “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters." Matthew 12:30

 "You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of." Matthew 12:34

Jesus the Conqueror

"When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. 18 I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades." Revelation 1:17-18

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace.
 In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." Romans 8:37

We are also conquerors through Jesus. 

Are we followers of the Warrior King?

28 Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, 29 for our “God is a consuming fire.” Hebrews 12:28-29

What did Moses, Joshua and David do? They listened to God. They spoke to God. They did what He asked them to do. And they called on Him when they were in trouble.

45 David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.
 46 This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head. This very day I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds and the wild animals, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. 47 All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.” 1 Samuel 17:45-47
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In Spirit and in Truth

6/5/2022

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“The Lord is my strength and my defense[a];
    he has become my salvation.
He is my God, and I will praise him,
    my father’s God, and I will exalt him." Exodus 15:2

Webster's definition of worship: 
: 1. to honor or show reverence for as a divine being or supernatural power
2: to regard with great or extravagant respect, honor, or devotion 

Songs, sacrifice, recognizing who God is and who we are -- all part of worship. Biblical examples are shown to us by Abraham, Moses, the prophets, the kings, even Jesus in the garden. Worship is essential to being a Christian. 


24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:24-25

"Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord;

    let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.
2 Let us come before him with thanksgiving
    and extol him with music and song." Psalm 95:1-2

"Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name;

    worship the Lord in the splendor of his[a] holiness." Psalm 29:2

"Come, let us bow down in worship,

    let us kneel before the Lord our Maker;" Psalm 95:6

"Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth.

2     Worship the Lord with gladness;
    come before him with joyful songs.
3 Know that the Lord is God.
    It is he who made us, and we are his[a];
    we are his people, the sheep of his pasture." Psalm 100:1-3

Worship God. Praise God all the time. Worship in heaven and yet to come:

"8 Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under its wings. Day and night they never stop saying:
“‘Holy, holy, holy
is the Lord God Almighty,’[a]
who was, and is, and is to come.”
9 Whenever the living creatures give glory, honor and thanks to him who sits on the throne and who lives for ever and ever, 10 the twenty-four elders fall down before him who sits on the throne and worship him who lives for ever and ever. They lay their crowns before the throne and say:
11 “You are worthy, our Lord and God,
    to receive glory and honor and power,
for you created all things,
    and by your will they were created
    and have their being.'" Revelation 4:8-11

No matter who we are or how important we are in this world, we will always just be people and God will always be God. Every knee will bow. All creatures and all people will acknowledge Jesus as God -- either willingly or otherwise.




"11 Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. 12 In a loud voice they were saying:
“Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain,
    to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength
    and honor and glory and praise!”

13 Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, saying:
“To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb
    be praise and honor and glory and power,
for ever and ever!'" Revelation 5:11-13

Worship in Spirit and Truth


23 Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. 24 God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in the Spirit and in truth.” John 4:23-24

15 Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name." Hebrews 13:15

Worship is Doing

"Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.
 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." Romans 12:1-2

Worship is a verb.

As a recipient of Christ's sacrifice, live your life in response to what you have received. Everything we do should be in response to Jesus's sacrifice.

Worship is Knowing


13 Is anyone among you in trouble? Let them pray. Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise. 14 Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord. 15 And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven." James 5:13-15

Worship is obedience. 

Worship is Telling

"5 you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house[a] to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ." 1 Peter 2:5

10 You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister[a]? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God’s judgment seat. 11 It is written:
“‘As surely as I live,’ says the Lord,
‘every knee will bow before me;
    every tongue will acknowledge God.’”[b]" Romans 14:10-11

Doing, Knowing and Telling -- Each of us knows someone who doesn't know Jesus. We need to tell them.

Life of Worship:

“The Lord is my strength and my defense[a];
    he has become my salvation.
He is my God, and I will praise him,
    my father’s God, and I will exalt him." Exodus 15:2
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Living Grateful in Hateful Times

5/29/2022

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11 Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. 12 As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy[a] met him. They stood at a distance 13 and called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” 14 When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed. 15 One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. 16 He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan.17 Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? 18 Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” 19 Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.”
Luke 17:11-19

Be like the one, the foreigner; don't be like the 9.

"Praise the Lord, my soul;
    all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
  Praise the Lord, my soul,
    and forget not all his benefits—" Psalm 103:1-2

"rooted
 and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." Colossians 2:7

The more we know the more we should be grateful. The world needs to see joyful Christians.

There was a gratitude study done by Berkeley in 2017. They took three groups of students who were having issues with mental health (Anxiety, depression, etc). One group was the control group -- they didn't do anything different. The second group got together weekly to discuss their problems. The third group was instructed to write a letter each week, a letter of gratitude to someone. The results of the study were thus:

1. Expressing gratitude unshackles you from negative emotions.
2. Even if the letter wasn't sent the act of writing the gratitude letter was enough to cause positive change.
3. Gratitude benefits takes time -- but it gets better and better. 
4. Gratitude has long-lasting effects on the brain an dhow it works. It changes our physical brains.

Practice gratitude regularly. When we do this we will see a real difference in our entire lives. 

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

 "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful." Colossians 4:2

Live the life of gratefulness. Daily! Must be deliberate or it won't happen.

"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
 16 Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." Colossians 3:15-17

Change yourself, change your world. In our prayer and despair, we are grateful. 

"Live in peace with each other. 14 And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:13-18

Start from the fact that we are blessed. 

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Fear Not!

5/16/2022

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​Fear is a powerful thing. It can be good (like getting us to react fast to a poisonous snake, getting out of the road when a car is about to hit us, etc.) but it can also paralyze us. In today's social climate people fear so much that they just blindly obey the authorities and government to just get along. 

Love of God = no fear of man

The opposite of love is fear. 


"The Lord is my light and my salvation--
    whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life--
    of whom shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1

"For I am the Lord your God

    who takes hold of your right hand
and says to you, Do not fear;
    I will help you." Isaiah 41:13

Memorize those verses. 

Fear is the opposite of love. Fear can take us over and make us do things we don't want to do if we don't fight it with faith and love. 

We are never alone


1 God is our refuge and strength,
    an ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
    and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam
    and the mountains quake with their surging.[c]" Psalm 46:1-3

God always was -- before time -- and always will be. This life on earth is just a wisp of life. Do what Jesus did. Jesus healed. Jesus preached. That is what the disciples did. This is what we are called to do.

Our worth is not measured on earth by God -- the way the world measures our worth.


26 “So do not be afraid of them, for there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.
 27 What I tell you in the dark, speak in the daylight; what is whispered in your ear, proclaim from the roofs. 28 Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. 29 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care.[a] 30 And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. 31 So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." Matthew 10:26-31

Christ is with us. Always with us.

​Peace of God vs the world's peace

"23 Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. 24 Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.
25 “All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."  John 14:23-27

The world says, "Be afraid and behave!""

God knows what is best for us. Seek him.

Fear Not


"
So do not fear, for I am with you;
    do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
    I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

I called and you heard me


Those who were my enemies without cause
    hunted me like a bird.
53 They tried to end my life in a pit
    and threw stones at me;
54 the waters closed over my head,
    and I thought I was about to perish.

55 I called on your name, Lord,
    from the depths of the pit.
56 You heard my plea: “Do not close your ears
    to my cry for relief.”
57 You came near when I called you,
    and you said, “Do not fear.” Lamentations 3:52-57

If fear starts coming over you, call out to God. He is there. 

Therefore, be confident in power and love


 So we say with confidence,
“The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.
    What can mere mortals do to me?”[a] Hebrews 13:6

"For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline."
2 Timothy 1:6-7

Love like Christ did. Self-discipline, read word; pray and listen -- 2 way conversation.

Jesus was not afraid ever.


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Underdog!

5/8/2022

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13 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." Matthew 7:13-14

Have you ever felt:

-- unwanted
-- unloved
-- unintelligent
-- un.....

​God is bigger than any "un" you might feel.


7 For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline."
2 Timothy 1:7

We love underdog stories (check out this year's Kentucky Derby race for an incredible underdog story: Just click here)

We love to hear the underdog stories, but we usually don't like being the underdog. It's uncomfortable and without faith it is the pits!

Paul was an underdog:

15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.
 16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen." 1 Timothy 1:15-17

And when he got saved the disciples didn't believe him!

Plus, Paul wrote a lot of his letters from prison!

Jesus was the ultimate underdog:
Known as A carpenter's son
Called Illegitimate
Homeless
Not wealthy monetarily
Not from an important family
Just a wandering preacher -- no church
Powerless against the Romans and Pharisees
Not a military leader

But He is who changed the world.

The Message of Christ:

Be the underdog. Be last. Be the servant.


31 But many who are first will be last, and the last first.” Mark 10:31

Go for what God wants.

13 “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.
 14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it." Matthew 7:13-14

Follow the narrow path.


19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.
 20 Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’[a] If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. 21 They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me." John 15:19-21

Jesus's way isn't the popular way. Following Jesus means the world will hate you. But hang on Jesus says.


32 “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.
 33 Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Luke 12:32-34

Go against the world. You're going to be challenged. You will be persecuted. Love, love, love. 


28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

We are working for the kingdom of God. The last will be first.


"You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved." Matthew 10:22

God's will in Christ.

6 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly.
 7 Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:6-8

At just the right time! Jesus came at just the right time. He will come again at just the right time. We are living at the just the right time to do Christ's work. The world is spinning out of control. God put us here for His reasons. We're here to do something. Use it for our strength -- the Word of God.


"10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. "11 “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." John 10:10-11

God wants us to have a full life. Hold on!

"
9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”" Joshua 1:9

7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5:7

28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who[a] have been called according to his purpose." Romans 8:28

There was Jesus! In the dark spots, in the alleys, He was and is there. God's timing, God's will, God's message:

"The Lord makes firm the steps

    of the one who delights in him;
24 though he may stumble, he will not fall,
    for the Lord upholds him with his hand." Psalm 37:23-24

God is with us!


33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” John 16:33

63 million children have been killed in our country since Roe vs Wade was passed.

Follow God's word and You're good!

Don't forget.


8 But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. 9 The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." 2 Peter 3:8-9

People are suffering. Between now and then do God's work. We can overcome the world, sin and death because Jesus already has!


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Faith is an action

5/1/2022

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"What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? 15 Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. 16 If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? 17 In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." James 2:14-17

If God tells you to do something and you don't do it, it's sin. If God tells you something and you make excuses you aren't following Jesus.

"If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them." James 4:17

The example has been given in Jesus Christ.

"I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you." John 13:15

Jesus went and found the people who needed healing, who needed saving. He kept on healing, kept on preaching, kept on forgiving no matter the reaction he got from others.

Have a servant heart


​"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, 24 since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." Colossians 3:23-24

Everything we do should lead to this way of life (in above verses). We can't "sell" Christianity with earthly rewards. Jesus doesn't promise these. But the life is rewarding -- it is abundant life! Rewards for following Christ in deeds:

"Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.
 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life." 1 Timothy 6:17-19

Everyone of us are wealthy. We are doing really well compared to most people in the world. Put your hope in God, not in riches. The abundant life is living the life of Christ right now. 

The day is coming:


 "'When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. 32 All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. 33 He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. 34 “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. 35 For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’ 37 “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’ 40 “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’"
Matthew 25:31-40

The deciding factor is what they DID for Jesus. Don't just think or wish -- DO! When you don't do it to others, you aren't doing it for Jesus. How can we claim we know Christ if we don't live as He calls us to live?

Actions and Truth
 

"
Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth." 1 John 3:18

Pray for people right now. We have to put our hands on people -- get real, get honest, do, do, do.

"We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your[a] faith;
 7 if it is serving, then serve; if it is teaching, then teach; 8 if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead,[b] do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully." Romans 12:6-8

Everyone has gifts. Use them for the kingdom of God. Use what you've been given.

WARNING:

There is danger in inactivity. You can defend really well but you'll never win just defending. Unless you go on the offensive you will never gain, never win.

"As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead." James 2:26

Is your faith dead?

"They claim to know God, but by their actions they deny him. They are detestable, disobedient and unfit for doing anything good." Titus 1:16

"With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him." Daniel 11:32

Defense and offense. We have to be moving out -- moving forward. Step out. Do. We have no excuse to have faith without action.

 “‘If you can’?”
 said Jesus. “Everything is possible for one who believes.” Mark 9:23

"He replied, 
“Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”" Matthew 17:20

Do! You're strong enough!
Pray knowing God is listening and working. Do the work. Our faith has to be a verb in our lives. This is what we are meant to do. 

Evaluate yourself -- work out your salvation with fear and trembling. 

What if Jesus asks you, "What did you do for me?" 

Even the demonws know who Jesus is but that's not faith. Faith without action is worthless. Be engaged wholly.



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The Hierarchy of Needs

4/24/2022

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We are taught Maslow's hierarchy of needs: physical, safety, love/belonging, esteem and finally self-actualization. But, according to scripture this isn't God's way. We can be well fed but miserable. We can put up all safety measures like alarms and cameras, but it is a false security. We hear all songs about love but they are usually about loss or wanting it. We are told to have self-esteem but still 97% of young girls have body issues of accepting themselves as they are. 

God's way is based in Him and His Word.


"Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me."  Luke 9:23

Here are God's Hierarchy of Needs:

#1 Acknowledge who we are and who God is -- we are sinners. He is God Almighty, perfect in all ways. 

"Jesus looked at him and loved him. '
One thing you lack,' he said. 'Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.'" Mark 10:21

Jesus loved the rich young man. He knew his riches were what was holding him to the world and not letting him follow God fully. Is something in your life holding you to the world and stopping you from following Christ fully?

"But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.
 8 What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ 9 and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in[a] Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith."  Philippians 3:7-9

Any gain in this world, if we embrace it, is a loss to our faith. We need to set Self aside and follow Jesus fully. 

"I can do all this through him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13

#2 Reconciliation between us and God and us and others.

"So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer.
 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation." 2 Corinthians 5:16-19

"Jesus answered, 'I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" John 14:6

#3 Understand the love of God through the Spirit.
We aren't enough -- so what. God's love completes us!

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13

"If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?
 18 Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth." 1 John 3:17-18

We are to be overflowing with love and hope! If we don't understand how much God loves us how can we be vessels of love and hope? The world needs his hope and love. 

3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,
 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others." Philippians 2:3-4

#4 We need fellowship with each other.

We always can do more together than alone. 

24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds,
 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:24-25

"As iron sharpens iron,

    so one person sharpens another." Proverbs 27:17

20 For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” Matthew 18:20

#5 Physical needs -- God knows what we need 

We don't need to dwell on our physical needs. God will take care of them.

19 And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

 
33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:33-34

We don't need to scramble to get our needs met. God will take care of these for us. He loves us.

#6 Safety.

We need safety of course, but our true safety is ifound in God.

"In peace I will lie down and sleep,

    for you alone, Lord,
    make me dwell in safety." Psalm 4:8

34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." Matthew 6:34

9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

15 Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father[a] is not in them.
 16 For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. 17 The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever." 1 John 2:15-17

18 The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen." 2 Timothy 4:18

The Lord's prayer shows this list too!

9 “This, then, is how you should pray:
“‘Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
10 your kingdom come,
your will be done,
    on earth as it is in heaven.

11 Give us today our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts,
    as we also have forgiven our debtors.

13 And lead us not into temptation,[a]
    but deliver us from the evil one.[b]’


#1. Father -- acknowledge him and who we are.
#2 Our daily needs.
#3 Reconciliation
#4 Safety
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Moving Forward

4/17/2022

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The world is lost. We all know the world is lost. If the world was honest the world would admit to being lost. So what do we need when we are lost? We need a way forward. 

Our way forward is Christ.
"Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2 because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh,God  did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, 4 in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.5 Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. 6 The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. 7 The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. 8 Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God." Romans 8:1-8

God went His son to fulfill the Law to make a way for us to be with Him in heaven. 

You have to choose -- the world or Jesus.

"Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.'" John 14:6

Jesus is the door!


"To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps." 1 Peter 2:21

Follow in His steps wherever He leads us.

The path forward is marked. 

The markers left by Christ are clear.


"Trust in the Lord with all your heart
    and lean not on your own understanding;
  in all your ways submit to him,
    and he will make your paths straight.[a]" Proverbs 3:5-6

"Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did." 1 John 2:6

Live in me as I live in the Father is what Jesus says. 

Do as I do -- Love as I love.


​"13 “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. 15 I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. 16 Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them." John 13:13-17

"My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you." John 15:12

Resurrection makes all things new!

"So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here! 18 All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19 that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation." 2 Corinthians 5:16-19

Jesus will physically return to earth!


Do as I do.

“Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.
 38 Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.”  39 He also told them this parable: “Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into a pit? 40 The student is not above the teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like their teacher." Luke 6:37-47

See in the above passage --  your action reaps. If you judge you will be judged. don't judge and you won't be judged; don't forgive and you won't be forgiven, etc....

They are Promises and Warnings.

“Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say? 47 As for everyone who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice, I will show you what they are like. 48 They are like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built. 49 But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete.” Luke 6:46-49

Set your mind on the Resurrection. Don't be a fan. Be a follower.

"Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. 3 For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ, who is your[a] life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory." Colossians 3:1-4

Don't be deceived. 

We are never left alone.

"In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy
 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, 6 being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Philippians 1:4-6

Challenge: Be a well-trained student. Use discipline. Get into the Word. Do what Jesus does. Follow Him.

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    Shannon Hinrichs

    Dupree Baptist Church Pastor

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