#Colossians Chapter 1 verse 16 | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

bl00dst41ned · 18 days

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This is gonna be really long :)

I would start by reading your Bible! I know it seems so basic and it can be little parts each day, but it is really important to set aside a bit of time each day to read It. I would recommend starting in either John, James, and Colossians (there’s a lot of other great places to start too). Make sure when you read it, youre not just reading but actually understanding the text. I use the SOAP method: scripture, observations, application, prayer.

S: Basically you write down the verses that stand out to you (ik it’s tedious but it’s important!!)

O: basically write a summary of what you observed while reading (what’s happening in that chapter or the what you think is the message that is being conveyed)

A: how can you apply it to your life! Write down how you can apply the things that are being taught in the chapter to your life

P: pray!!! Ask Christ to give you wisdom and understanding of the chapter/chapters and ask Him to help you apply the message to your life.

Also, FIND A GOOD CHURCH!!! I know it’s hard, but it is SO SO important to socialize with people who can teach you more about God!! Not to mention, people who can hold you accountable. I wouldn’t recommend a huge church (often, members of the church can already have their own established groups and it’s hard to feel welcomed, but there are some great large churches out there). I think it’s really important to be in a church that welcomes you and makes an effort to get you involved in a Bible study group, the Church overall, and stuff like that. Ultimately, reading the Bible will help you to know what to look for in a good church. Here are some scriptures that talk about good churches: Acts 20:20, Acts 20:27, 1 Timothy 3:15, 1 Timothy 5:17, Romans 1:16 (a good church DOES NOT hide or deny parts of the Bible!!).

As for prayer life, it’s really important to pray a lot bc it is, essentially, talking to God. I would start by just remembering to pray in the morning and at night. The Lord’s Prayer is definitely something you should memorize, but it’s really important to personalize your prayers. Sometimes life really sucks and it’s hard to form words when praying but God knows what you need, and praying can be a crying session as well (I’m very familiar with these prayers).

I REALLY HOPE THIS HELPS AND I STRUGGLE WITH ALL THESE THINGS ALL THE TIME!! Make sure not to compare yourself to other Christians (I’ve tried it, wouldn’t recommend) that you think might be “holier” or “more righteous” but really the ultimate example is Jesus!! PLEASE PLEASE MESSAGE ME OR ASK A QUESTION!! Also, I love you❤️

P.S.: when you turn this into a religion and a bunch of rules, it’s pointless and hopeless. the Pharisees in the Bible followed all of the rules, yet were the most rebuked by Jesus. Following all the commandments each day is pointless without a relationship with Jesus.

Thank you for your answer ! 🫶🏾🤎

I've never really read the Bible, just gone off from what I learnt in catechism but I'll definitely try to.

For the church part, I'll have to grow a bit because I'm not comfortable yet asking my mom for this.

I know I shouldn't but I can't help but to compare myself to others. Like, just them being at Church yesterday and not me made me feel bad because, it's Easter, one of, if not the most important day for Christians and i'm not there. I just feel so bad.

#hey barcagirly <3 #thank you so much for the answer #means the world to me

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karl-cain-1 · 1 year

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THE LORD OUR GOD THE FATHER OF ALL THINGS SEEN AND UNSEEN. VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE. COLOSSIANS CHAPTER 1 VERSE 16. AND ST MATHEW CHAPTER 6 VERSE 6

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forty-things-to-think-over · 10 months

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Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.” So the Lord God formed from the ground all the wild animals and all the birds of the sky. He brought them to the man to see what he would call them, and the man chose a name for each one. He gave names to all the livestock, all the birds of the sky, and all the wild animals. But still there was no helper just right for him.

Genesis 2:18‭-‬20

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For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. And He is before all things, and in Him all things consist.

Colossians 1:16-17

All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Romans 8:28.

Adam was created by God, for God, in the image of God, to represent God, for the good of God. Intentionally designed by his maker to lack something, yet not be totally incomplete. Verse 19 says he went to work, did his job, and completed his first assignment. The thing Adam lacked wasn't ability. The phrase "help meet for him" can be translated back to ayzer used 21 times throughout the entire bible. Two of those times are in this chapter, one is in Isaiah, and the one in Isaiah is the only time it's used in reference to a type of help that people could provide. The other 18 times it was used it refers to a divine help sent by God to sustain you in times of trouble.

A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.

Ecclesiastes 4:12

For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them"

Matthew 18:20

Your marriage is a ministry. The world will know what God's love looks like by the way you respond to your spouse. Eve was sent by God to show Adam who he was meant to be; a husband, a father, things we have to earn through emotional and spiritual growth that we CANNOT do alone. My wife has a way of unintentionally showing me that there are places I need to grow within myself by virtue of things like how we load the dishwasher differently, her way or the right way. Yet, indirectly she pours into my soul hard truths that if accepted, repented upon, and turned over to God will enable me to grow into the man God wants me to be by way of the help made meet for me. So why did God create Eve? It wasn't Good for Adam to be alone.

#christian living #christian bible #christian marriage #marriage #adam and eve #marriage tips #kingdom marriage #prayer #marriage help #Jesus

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psalmonesermons · 1 year

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How to walk in the Spirit-4 Set your mind on things above Colossians 3:1-2 Sometimes we need to get our problems out from under the microscope and gaze into the observatory of God’s creation. This will help us keep a sense of perspective about our difficulties and problems. James says that ‘We must be both hearers and doers of God’s word.’ We must put the word of God in practice in our day to day lives. We have been made alive in the Spirit and so we must walk in the Spirit. This means that every day we must remember what God had said about us rather than what our circumstances say about us. Remember when Jesus told Peter to step off the boat and walk on the water to him. When Peter looked at the circumstances, he began to sink yet when he walked on Jesus’ word he began to walk on the water. Jesus of course caught Peter and that what he will do for you when you step out on faith on the word Jesus has given you. Amen. Returning now to our keynote scripture, the word ‘walk’ [1] in Galatians 5:16 means to walk around i.e. walk around in the Spirit e.g. he walks around if he owns the joint! Walk around in this verse means that you are putting into practice what you believe in your heart and are convinced about in your mind. So in other words we need to be convinced of the spiritual realities that Jesus has achieved for us. Jesus tells us that we are more than conquerors so why do we end up giving in so easily? And so often? Believers who walk around only in the natural flesh tend to be defeated in their lives and can often become grumpy and unhappy. Believers who walk around in the Spirit usually walk around in victory and uplift our brothers and sisters. Let us put off the deeds of the flesh. Amen Last passage of scripture Colossians 3:1 If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God. 2 Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. 3 For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. Set your minds on things above-learn them – and believe them. We find them conveniently in Colossians chapter 3. Here are some examples of setting your mind above: Put to death.. https://www.instagram.com/p/CmxPS39oXQm/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

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shammah8 · 5 days

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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

📅 SUN. 14TH APRIL 2024

THE DYNAMICS HAVE CHANGED

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For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily (Colossians 2:9).

Pastor Chris Says

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One remarkable distinction between Jesus and the prophets of old is that Jesus had the fullness of the Godhead dwelling in Him. The Holy Spirit was within Him, but the prophets only had the Holy Spirit come upon them from time to time.

For example, we read the story in Judges 6 when Gideon was chosen by God to deliver Israel from the Midianites. The Bible says, "But the Spirit of the LORD came upon Gideon, and he blew a trumpet; and Abiezer was gathered after him" (Judges 6:34).

Also, in the 14th chapter, we find the story of Samson who encountered a young lion while on his way to Timnath. The Spirit of the Lord came upon him, enabling him to tear the lion apart "as he would have torn a kid" (Judges 14:6).

In 1 Samuel 10:10, before Saul became king, the Spirit of the Lord came upon him, and he prophesied among the prophets. Also, read the story of David in 1 Samuel 16:13. After Samuel anointed David as the future king of Israel, the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him.

But today, the dynamics have changed. We're in the generation of Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit doesn't come on us like He did with those in the Old Testament. He lives in us now in His fullness. The Holy Spirit lives in you in His maximum capacity and entirety, just like Paul said about Jesus in Colossians 1:19, "For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell."

In the next chapter, Paul also reiterated, "For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily" (Colossians 2:9). Then in the very next verse, He was quick to add that we are complete in Him: "And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power" (Colossians 2:10).

So, today, just like Jesus, when you walk the streets, it's with the fullness of the Godhead. God Almighty, in His fullness, lives, walks and talks in you. Hallelujah! Can you see that you aren't an ordinary person? You're a God-carrying vessel, filled with His fulness, and doing extraordinary things. Glory to God!

🙏 P R A Y E R

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Dear Father, I thank you for the indwelling of your Holy Spirit within me. I'm a God-carrying vessel, replete with the maximum load of God. I am not an ordinary person; I am a vessel of divine power. I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. Amen.

📖 FURTHER STUDY:

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1 John 4:4; Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.

Ephesians 3:14-20; For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

[15] of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,

[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;

[17] that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,

[18] may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height;

[19] and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

[20] Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

Colossians 1:26-27; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:

[27] to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

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humbleservantprayerwall · 5 months

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Daily Devotionals 11-25-2023

Verses of the Day: Matthew 19:19/Galatians 1:11-17/1 Thessalonians 5:16-18/Luke 4:18/Obadiah 2:1/Nehemiah 9:27/Psalms 150:1/Colossians 3:17/Psalms 7:17/Proverbs 3:25-26/Romans 9:15/1 Corinthians 8:6/1 Samuel 16:1-13/Luke 11:23/Titus 1:15/Romans 6:18/Matthew 6:24/Romans 6:20-22/Romans 10:4/John 12:26/Matthew 11:29-30/Isaiah 26:13/Psalm 119:32/ Chapters of the Day: 1599 Geneva Bible 2 Chronicles…

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dailyaudiobible · 6 months

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10/29/2023 DAB Transcript

Lamentations 1:1-2:22, Philemon 1:1-25, Psalm 101:1-8, Proverbs 26:20

Today is the 29th day of October, welcome to the Daily Audio Bible and here we are at the threshold of a sparkly, shiny new week. And we’ve got some ground to cover this week. Before the week is over, we will enter a new month and we’re going to begin four, that's right four books in the Scriptures this week. So, in the Old Testament we will read through the book of Lamentations, which we’re about to get to and just a minute. And then begin the book of Ezekiel. And in the New Testament we’ll read Paul's letter to Philemon, which we will read today. And then move our way into the book of Hebrews. So, we’ve got some ground to cover and let's get to it. We’re gonna read from the Good News translation this week and we will begin by beginning the book of Lamentations.

Introduction to the Book of Lamentation:

And the book of Lamentations is a book that contains five poems and they’re poems of lament and grief. And this lament is over the fall and destruction of Jerusalem. And we covered some of that territory as we read through Jeremiah's prophecies. So, in Hebrew, this book is called Ica, which means how could this happen. And, of course, we know how it could happen. Jeremiah, the prophet, warned over and over, over decades of impending doom if the children of Israel didn't return from their wicked ways, and now, the prophecy has come true. And although Ica, or Lamentations, doesn't claim an author, and there's really no definitive proof, we have church tradition that tells us that the prophet Jeremiah wrote these Lamentations. So, we don't know that for a fact, but he was obviously intimate with the scenario and in the same time period. So, Lamentations was probably written somewhere in early 587 BC, as the Babylonians conquered and then completely destroyed Jerusalem in 586. Whether Jeremiah wrote this or not, someone who was an eyewitness, probably did. And today, in Jewish culture, on the ninth day of Hob, which is July 16 on the Western calendar, Lamentations is read on a day of fasting to commemorate the fall of Jerusalem. And as each poem is read, it provides a backdrop for personal reflection. Lamenting, that's never something that we sign up for, lamenting is never an easy thing, grief is certainly hard, but it also has a way of washing us clean because it strips us away until all that's left is what is true, what is bedrock in our lives. And it can be intensely painful, for sure, but it's also freeing in hindsight. And when we’ve fallen into the depths and there's no more depths to go to, then we find there's hope, there's nowhere to go but up, the euphemism says. There’s hope for our future, and we can find in this book of Lamentations much hope in our personal reflection. So, we begin Lamentations chapter 1 verse 1 through 2, 22.

Introduction to the Book of Philemon:

Okay so, as we enter the New Testament portion of our reading today, we come to the book of Philemon, it's just a little personal letter from the apostle Paul, that we’ll read today, all in one sitting. And it’s written to a church leader in the church at Colossae, so the Colossians and his name is Philemon. So, Philemon was one of the more wealthy and influential churchman and in in a strange twist of divine providence, Philemon had a servant, and his name was Onesimus. And Onesimus ran away and probably stealing from Philemon. So, stealing from his master in the process. And Onesimus ends up not in Colossae but in Rome where Paul is under house arrest, and so this runaway servant Onesimus comes under Paul's teachings and then becomes a follower of Jesus and becomes kind of like the servant of Paul, attends to Paul's needs. So, Paul's written a letter to the Colossians, right. He wrote the letter to the Colossians that we have in the New Testament, and he's preparing to send it back with another servant name Tychicus. But then he writes this very short personal letter to go along with the letter to the Colossians to the church at Colossae. He pens this personal letter to Philemon and then sends Onesimus, the runaway servant with Tychicus, back to Colossae. And as short as this little personal letter is, it packs a punch. It shows us the importance of forgiveness and it shows us that no matter what our level of authority is over another person, if they are a believer then they’re a brother or sister and we’re to treat them like family. And it also shows us a perfect example of how God does, in fact, work all things together for the good of those who love Him. And so, with that we read the letter to Philemon.

Commentary:

Okay, so, we’ve already talked quite a bit about the letter and the book that we entered into today. And we can see, as we were the first couple of chapters of Lamentations, that it's a gut punch, that it leads us into emotions and territory that are things that we try to avoid, and that's why it's here, because we shouldn't avoid these things. We should invite the Holy Spirit into them. And as we read these poems allow the Holy Spirit to move us through lament, right. And so, maybe we haven't you know, lived in a city with walls that have been torn down and a temple that is, like those things that we have witnessed through Jeremiah and now Lamentations. But we all have regrets. We all have things that we’re like, you know, I could've done that better. I wish I had done that differently. And, you know, now I'm going through what I'm going to because of that, or that sent me into a really hard season. So, a lot of times because it was hard, and because it was painful, we try to suppress and repress even going there, like even thinking about it anymore, like it’s just so painful. But the thing is, it's still inside of us, like it’s still inside, it's still there. Like, it may be shoved up into the attic or down into the basement of our hearts, but it's still there, and the Holy Spirit uses times of lament to bring us back, so that he can heal those places, rather than allowing them to continue to seep poison into our lives, and that's the invitation, as we go through books like Lamentations. And then obviously, this little, short letter to Philemon from the apostle Paul is a treasure to have because you know, we only have a few personal letters and they’re, the personal letters are mostly pastoral in nature. And so, here's this personal letter to a man who kind of leads a home church and he's basically saying Onesimus is my son in the face now and he has served me, and I would like him to continue to serve me, but he’s yours, so I'm sending him back to you in hopes that you will send him back to me. So, just this little glimpse into, sort of the back story of what's going on, aside from Paul giving theology and doctrine instruction. This is like a little side personal thing that gives us a glimpse into his existence and his circumstances as he's imprisoned in Rome.

And then we come to the Proverb, and we can't not talk about that for just a second. Gossip, gossip is like cancer. I have witnessed this so many times and in so many contexts. And gossip takes on many forms but usually always is paired with married to, assumptions. So, gossip doesn't become gossip until assumptions are made and blanks are filled in and a story is formulated and little bits from here and there are collected. Right, then it's spoken to somebody else and passed around, and the person that's being referred to isn't even there to speak. And so, when they find out that people have been talking about them behind their backs. Okay, then there's a confrontation and there's quarreling, then there’s argument, then there’s separation, then there's factions, then this whole community that you know, that’s involved is divided and you got all kinds of problems. And we’ve probably all seen this, maybe participated in it, maybe been on the receiving end of it but it just. Like, when have you ever seen gossip workout for good? Like, when have you ever seen a gossip, a person who collects all these little pieces of information and then tries to fill in the blanks and start spreading these things around, when have you seen that workout in a good way? It just never does, and it hasn't for a long time because we’re reading ancient wisdom here, thousands and thousands of years old and it didn't work then. So, we should get a clue that as juicy as it is, and it is entertaining as it might be, people's lives aren't there to entertain you and division never works out well. The Proverb tells us without wood, a fire goes out. So, we know that, right. You have a bonfire it's autumn, you have a bonfire out in the back somewhere, it's roaring. Everybody’s having a good time and then you pull all the logs out of the fire and fire goes out. The Proverb says, that's how it works with gossip. When you don't have it, because gossip is the fuel, it's the wood of the bonfire. If you remove it, then the division and quarreling will stop. We should remember this. All our words matter, all our words are creating the reality we live in, and words spoken as gossip are only adding fuel to a fire that is going to be tremendously destructive in the end.

Prayer:

And so, Father, we acknowledge this, we know this is true, and even in the context of the book of Lamentations, it may be our words, it may be gossip and quarreling and division and divisiveness that we have regrets over, that we need to invite You into and that we need to lament over. So much of our story boils back to our words. And so, we surrender, our tongues, our mouths, our thoughts, to You and acknowledge that without wood, a fire goes out. And without gossip, quarreling stops. Come Holy Spirit and lead us forward, we ask in Jesus name. Amen.

Prayer and Encouragements:

Hello, this is Just Judy for Jesus. And I am calling to let Junk to Treasure know that she is well loved, well respected and highly prayed for out here in this family’s world. Now, I know she’s going through bad times right now but let me tell you girl, you are well prayed for. I pray high on you. I pray, I lift you up. I lift you up high to let Jesus know, to reach down there with His beautiful loving hands and hold you and stroke your head and just tell you how much He loves you and things are gonna be okay. Like you say, take the junk that is thrown into our lives and turn it into treasure. We love you so much and we appreciate all the prayers that you pray. You never seem to leave anyone out, you’re just wonderful. And that will come back to you because you are God’s creature, you are God’s daughter, you are God’s love. And He will see you through this shallow deep valley and He will gladly walk you right out the other side to sunshine and happiness. So, hang in there Junk to Treasure. You will be okay. We will not stop praying for you. So, hang in there sweety. We love you so much. And God’s Yellow Flower, I love you too. You prayed for my brother when he was dying of cancer. And I’ll never forget it. He’s passed now. But I will never forget, you reaching out and praying for him. It was Bob Allen from Arizona. And Eyes of a Dove, I’ll pray for anything you want me to pray for, cause you are good too, you’re wonderful. Oh, there’s so many of you guys that I love out there. I don’t call in often, but I listen all the time. And I always so, oh God please be with those people, they’re so many of you that needs, we all need to get around that campfire and hold hands and pray for each other, hard and strong and long.

Hi, good evening, DAB’s, today is October 23rd, this is Gift of God calling in. Just wanna say thank you for all the prayers for Jaleeya, my cousin, the 9-year-old little girl that had to have surgery. She is recovering so well. She’s going into therapy but hey, the devil lost. When the doctors said that we had to call, my mom had to call in all the family members and they didn’t think she was gonna make it. But ha!! The devil, we laugh in your face. Because Satan you are a lie. She’s recovering well. And I just want to thank each and every one of you who said a prayer. And I also want to say a prayer for those who are in need. I don’t know all of your names. I do hear your prayers and I do pray for you, but I just want you to know that the God we serve is good. So, I’m gonna say a prayer. Heavenly Father, Lord we thank You. We thank you Lord God for all You do and all that You’ve done and all that You’re about to do. We thank You for every DABer, Lord God. We ask You to continue to watch over them and protect them. Lord, provide for them, Lord. Give them everything that they need, Lord God. Father, we just say thank You, Lord God. For You wake us up everyday, Lord God. And Lord, You allow us to be able to use every limb, Lord God. And Father, You give us the ability to understand and to comprehend everything that we do, that we do on our jobs. Father, we thank You in Jesus name. Amen.

Good morning, DAB family. This is Pamela, Resting in the Lord from Pennsylvania. Today, I’m calling in to pray for, to continue prayers for people dealing with trauma or stress of any kind with all the darkness in the world right now with the war in Israel. And there’s just darkness permeating into every part of our lives, it seems like. But we don’t have to be taken down by the enemy with that darkness. We can keep our mind on the Lord and His plans. And all the good that He has for our futures and keep our hope in Him and our mind on things above. I’m also calling in to pray for all of us who have challenges in our marriage. Either separated or divorced or living in a very difficult situation. I am among you as well. I wanna thank Kristen, Christ in Me for calling in with a prayer for a narcissistic husband, for Diana in Florida, I am saying that prayer over my husband. And I believe I’m seeing some differences. My husband and I are also attending a freedom course, with freedom curriculum with small groups and then a conference at the end. And it is transforming our lives. So, I’m praising God for that. Let’s pray. Heavenly Father, we know this world is coming into darkness, but that’s what you let us know in your word. We trust You to be the light in the darkness and trust in You for every single thing. In Jesus name.

Hello, I’m from Colorado. I was listening to, I believe October 4th or 5th podcast and a gentleman praying for his daughter, Ashton, who thought she was pregnant and but it turned out that the test was erroneous. She’s not but she desires deeply to have a child. And I really was moved by the father who loves his daughter, obviously. Requesting his prayers for her. So, I do pray for Ashton, Lord, pray for mercy on her. Give her the desires of her heart. And I know You know exactly what is best and I pray, certainly, primarily for that. That it be good, Lord, to whatever You’re working in the lives of that family. That You would bless them and encourage them and be with them, Lord always. Thank You for Your faithfulness to all Your people who are calling in. Many needs but You are faithful. You are just Lord. Lean not onto our own understanding but in all our ways, acknowledge Him and He will give us the desires of our heart. Thank You Father for Your faithfulness. I pray these things in Jesus name. Amen.

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lesfeldickbiblestudy · 6 months

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How can you help an unbelieving spouse find the Lord? [convertplayer id="nd033cxzi" width="700" height="525"] I Corinthians 7:10-16 "And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, (so this is The Word of God) Let not the wife depart from her husband: But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband; and let not the husband put away his wife. But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away. And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, (still in paganism) and if he be pleased to dwell with her, (who is now a believer) let her not leave him. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, (who is a believer) and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: (who is a believer) else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. (Paul says `let the unbelieving spouse go if that's the way they want it.') A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. For what knowest thou, O wife, (Who is a believer) whether thou shalt save thy husband? (who is lost) or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shall save thy wife?" Now we know that we can't save our spouse and the spouse can't save us, so what's Paul talking about? Well let me bring you back again to Peter's little epistle in I Peter Chapter 3. Here, especially in the city of Corinth, and this is the only letter where Paul deals with these things, and so consequently I have to feel that the Ephesians weren't under this kind of situation, nor the Philippians, or the Colossians. Maybe to a degree they were, but not like they were here in Corinth. It was just beyond comprehension, and everyone of these converts of Paul had been in idolatry. So if they were married then naturally they both were, so if one of them is saved and comes out of idolatry, and becomes a believing Christian then here we have in the home this division, as one is still in idolatry, and the other a believer. How were they going to handle it? The same would be for missionaries who minister to people who have more than one wife in the family. We're so immune to all these things, we've been so protected in our American society, but these things were real to these people. Now look what Peter says here. I Peter 3:1 "Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; (sounds like Paul doesn't it?) that, if any obey not the word, (they're not a believer) they (the husbands) also may without the word (without preaching at them, without dragging them to church, without bringing them under the television ministry, without saying a word, that lost husband may) be won by the conversation (or manner of living) of the wives," Now verse 2: I Peter 3:2-4 "While they behold your chaste conversation (manner of living) coupled with fear. (a reverence fear, rather than being scared to death) Whose adorning (speaking of the Godly, believing wife) let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; (but rather let her win the husband by) but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, (that born again spirit within that believing woman) even the ornament of a meek and quite spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price." Now what is Peter admonishing the believing wife to do? Listen, don't nag that unbelieving husband, don't preach at him, don't try to drag him to church because that's not going to work. So what does the wife do first and foremost? She lives an exemplary Christian life in front of him. I remember when I was teaching up in Iowa, and I had a Saturday night teenager class, and we would have 45 or 50 kids that would come in every Saturday night for Bible teaching. One of the neigh

bors of the host home wanted to know, "what in the world is going on in your house on Saturday night?" So Gladys the host, said, "well we have a Bible study for young people." The neighbor lady wanted to know if there was a chance that she could come and sit off in the corner someplace, and listen and watch, and naturally there wasn't a problem with that. So this lady, who was a doctor's wife, had a lovely home, but her husband was something else. And they don't mind me telling this story on them, as they share it with everyone now. But anyway, she came to that class on Saturday nights over a few weeks time, and Mary Beth was gloriously saved. Well it wasn't but a few weeks after that, and Iris and I were attending a wedding where she was also, and she met us out in the lobby of the church, and she started to weep - I mean weep. I said what in the world is the problem. And she said, "My husband John." I said, "Yeah, I've heard about John." You see John had more than one mistress, and his wife knew it, and as a result of her Salvation he became her number one burden. And so I took out my Bible and showed her these verses here in I Peter, and I told her that this wasn't going to be easy, but my Bible tells me that if you can do it, then God will do it. Well she said, "I'm willing to try." So I told her just to do what she knew John likes. If he loves a good T-bone steak have one ready when he comes in. If he likes hot apple pie, have one ready for him. Well to make a long story short, do you know how long it took to win John? 4 months. And old John told the story himself. John said, " I was in my office one Sunday morning, and had just seen my last patient, and I was in a hurry to get out to the country club. I was just gong to spend the day boozing it up with my buddies. Before I could get out of my clinic, The Lord just came on me with such conviction that my wife was such a far better person than I could ever hope to be, that right there in my office I dropped to my knees and said `Lord, I'm a sinner, save me, and The Lord did.'" And this man has now been a Church leader almost ever since. He is a living example of what a believing wife can do without saying a word. Most women get the idea that they're going to drag their husband to church, and get everybody trying to collar him, and that's not the way to do it according to my Bible. I've also seen it the other way around. In one instance the husband came to the class first and was saved, and got a burden for his wife to be saved, but she wanted nothing to do with The Word of God when he tried to read it to her. But he just kept living the example, and finally one day The Lord in His Sovereign Grace caused a friend of hers, who was a believer, to just stop in for coffee one morning, and in the process of having a cup of coffee, led this lady to The Lord. And they are still living the exemplary Christian life together today. So I know this works. So back to I Corinthians, and this is all Paul is saying, that if a wife or husband finds themselves still in a marriage relationship with a rank pagan unbeliever, to just hang in there. Don't break up the marriage if at all possible, but live the example so that the day will come when they will open their heart to The Gospel (Ref. I Corinthians 15:1-4) and then you can have a happy marriage relationship, a happy home, and of course the children will more than likely follow suit.

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christianengineers · 10 months

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Iprayministry 🇨🇦 Canada/ChristianEngineer

ONE YEAR BIBLE 2023

PROVERBS 1-PROVERBS 31

DO NOT LOVE THE WORLD

The World Is Passing Away

Prayer Verse:1John 2:15

Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. - 1John 2:15 (NIV)

READ:1JOHN 2:15-17

OR Whole Chapter

Let's Pray

God of creation, we have no experience of lasting joy in this world filled with sin and evil.

Love for the World pushes Out our Love for You.

Love for God and Love for the World Cannot Coexist.

You have commanded us not to love the sin of the world.

"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. The world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever." - 1John 2:15-17

Friendship with the world is enmity with God. - James 4:4;1Corinthians 10:14

Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away. - Matthew 24:35

May You continue to fill us with the Holy Spirit and guide us with the scriptures.

Satan is the ruler of this wicked evil world. - John 12:31

“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, - Mathew 6:24

May we love You and seek You diligently.

"You will seek me and find me when you me with all your heart." - Jeremiah 29:13

You love the people in the world and the beauty of the world not the sin in the world.

For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. - John 3:16

We cannot grow in grace if we're bound by the desires of this world.

May we set our minds on things above not on earthly things. - Colossians 3:2;1Corinthians 2:9

No love in this world can excel our love for You and Jesus Christ Your Son Amen. --- WPT29JN23

PrayerEngineer

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keeganbooks · 10 months

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KNOWING YOUR BIBLE

June 25, 2023: Dear Friends, Welcome back to this weekly blog on learning and knowing the Bible. As has been written many times, the Bible, being God’s Holy Word to its readers, is the most important book ever written. In 2nd Timothy, chapter 3, verse 16 is written, “All scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” A brief summary of the history of the writing of the Bible through the ages is as follows: St.Jerome is credited with copying the Bible into Latin from the Greek version and compiling the books into the Bible in the 400′s AD. The Greek version had been copied from the original Bible scrolls that were written by the authors of events that occurred starting in the 1800′s BCE through the 120′s AD. All timeframes are approximate. Once the Bible had been translated into Latin, the fame of the Bible begin to spread throughout the world. In the 1600′s AD, King James of England had the Bible translated into English. This important happening again helped the Word of God to spread throughout the World. Another important happening that has taken place in the past several decades has been that several different versions of the Bible have been written. For the follower of this blog, there may be needed advice when selecting a Bible to purchase for one’s own use. This help may come from a church leader, such as a Pastor or class teacher. Also consider using a Bible Store clerk or other employee for advice is selecting a Bible. In this week’s discussion, we will continue in our series on learning the Bible. This series started on April 23. Discussion on learning the names and locations of the Bible books, how to look for and search for Bible verses, learning the timeline of when either a specific Bible book was written or when the events that were written in a specific Bible book occurred, and focusing on how the books of the Bible are related, have been the primary topics in this series. Over the past 6 weeks, the focus has been on how the books of the Bible are related. The books can be related through the various geographic sites that are found in the Bible. Another way the books of the Bible can be related is through words and ideas that transverse through the many Bible books. To review these blogs, go to the May 14th blog and advance slowly, studying and contemplating on what has been written. The focus of this blog will continue on words and ideas that help in the realizaton of how and what God wanted to be taught through reading the Bible, that is, what God wanted each reader to learn through reading and studying the Bible. Verses with words and ideas will be listed below. All Bible verses are from the New Revised Standard (NSR) Version of the Bible. May God Bless Your Bible Study This Week! WORDS AND IDEAS PRAYER: Matthew, chapter 6, verses 5-22; Mark, chapter 1, verse 35; Jacob’s Prayer: Genesis, chapter 32, verses 22-32; David’s Prayer: 2nd Samuel, chapter 7, verses 18-29; Solomon’s Prayer: 2nd Chronicles, chapter 6, verses 6-22; Jesus’ prayer: Matthew, chapter 6, verses 9-15;Colossians, chapter 1, verses 9-10. THE WILL OF GOD: Matthew, chapter 6, verses 7-13; Ephesians, chapter 5, verses 15-20. 2nd Thessalonians, chapter 3, verses 12-13. Hebrews, chapter 13, verses 20-21.

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motiv8world · 11 months

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Rhapsody of Realities 30 May 2023: Knowing Who the Christian Is

SCRIPTURE: But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light. 1 Peter 2:9

You may read the four gospels and not get a picture of the Christian life and who the Christian really is. This is because the gospels don’t completely give us the full picture of the life of Jesus after His resurrection. The account of His life before His ascension was very brief.

It’s part of the reasons He told His disciples about the Holy Spirit -the Spirit of truth-who would show them things to come and guide them into all truth (John 16:12-13). Therefore, the most appropriate reference point for the Christian, as you study the New Testament, are the epistles.

Someone might ask, “How about the Book of Acts?” The Book of Acts is a catalogue of the acts of a baby Church. The Church in the Book of Acts had just started out in the Faith; so, it might not be the best expression of the Christian life, though it’s a good place to start. But for deeper and greater insights into the life of God’s new creature in Christ, you’d have to study the epistles!

For example, Paul’s epistle to the Roman church-the Book of Romans-is an extraordinary exposition of the doctrine of the supremacy of Christ and of faith in Christ as the source of salvation. Also, consider his beautiful letter to the Ephesian church; it details how new converts can grow in their spiritual knowledge of God and in the realities of the Kingdom.

Think about Peter’s writings; in chapter one verse four of his second epistle, he said, “Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature….” What a description of who the Christian is: we’re participators or sharers of God’s divine nature; associates of the God-kind-carriers or conveyors of the God-life. What a blessed reality!

There’s also the prophetic word on the millennial reign of Christ: everything the Lord promised to the Jews in the millennial reign is what He already gave the Church to enjoy today. Therefore, if you want to know about the Christian life and who the Christian is, you need the Book of Acts, the revelations and admonitions in the epistles, and all the promises prophetically given to the Jews in the Millennium. Hallelujah!

PRAYER: Dear Father, I’m thoroughly nourished, nurtured, sustained and fortified to attain spiritual maturity through the study of the realities of the new life in Christ. I make progress by the Spirit, and my profiting by the Word is unstoppable, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY

Colossians 1:26-27

26 The mystery of which was hidden for ages and generations [from angels and men], but is now revealed to His holy people (the saints),

27 To whom God was pleased to make known how great for the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ within and among you, the Hope of [realizing the] glory.

2 Corinthians 5:17

herefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come!

1 Peter 2:9 AMPC

But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God’s] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 15:1-17 & 1 Chronicles 3-4

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 14:12-21 & Numbers 33

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karl-cain-1 · 1 year

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THE LORD OUR GOD THE FATHER OF ALL THINGS SEEN AND UNSEEN. VISIBLE AND INVISIBLE. COLOSSIANS CHAPTER 1 VERSE 16. AND ST MATHEW CHAPTER 6 VERSE 6

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stpaullutheranchurch · 1 year

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2022 Christmas day

2022 Christmas Day

Old Testament: Isaiah 52:7-10

Psalm: Psalm 2

Epistle: Hebrews 1:1-6

Gospel: John 1:1-14

Sermon Text: John 1:1-14

Sermon Title: “The Word Became Flesh”

Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

“Serve the Lord with fear and trembling”. (Psalm 2:11) “The Lord has bared His holy arm before the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God”. (Isaiah 52:10) “Long ago … God spoke to our fathers through the prophets, but in these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son, by whom He also created the world”. (Hebrews 1:1-2)

“In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God”. (John 1:1) “All things were made through Him”. (John 1:3a) “The world was made through Him and yet the world knew Him not”. (John 1:10b) “The Word became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth”. (John 1:14a) “Blessed are all who take refuge in Him”. (Psalm 2:12b)

The Scriptural account of the birth of the Christ is recorded in three of the four Gospels. Last Sunday, we heard the brief account from Matthew 1. Matthew 2 speaks of the Magi/Wise Men and then we will hear (also from Matthew 2) about Joseph, Mary and the baby Jesus fleeing to Egypt to escape from the evil King Herod. Luke 1 records the angel Gabriel’s appearance to Mary and her visit with Elizabeth. Last evening, we heard the longer account of Jesus’ birth, involving the shepherds and angels, from Luke chapter 2. Finally, this morning, we have the account from the Apostle John; whose only direct words about the birth of Jesus are, “the Word became flesh and dwelt among us”. (John 1:14)

This is the central verse in our Gospel text this morning; perhaps in the whole Gospel of John. Everything leading up to it explains who this Jesus is; whose birth we celebrate today. How “by taking on human flesh, God the Son, the second person of the Trinity, comes into the world that He created; graciously bringing deliverance from spiritual darkness” (and sin) and making all who believe in Him, “children of God”. (John 1:12b)

John begins his Gospel in the same way as the book of Genesis; “in the beginning”. “In the beginning was the Word (Jesus) and the Word was with God and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God”. (John 1:1-2) Jesus is the Word and He has always existed; for in fact He was not just “with God”, He “was God”. (John 1:1b) The Psalm for Christmas day, which is a Messianic Psalm, a prophecy of Christ reads, “Serve the Lord with fear and rejoice with trembling … blessed are all who take refuge in Him”. (Psalm 2:11, 12b)

Not just at this time of year; but more so at this time of year; many critics of Christianity say that “Jesus never claimed to be God in the Bible”. This is either a blatant lie or sheer ignorance on the part of people who assert such things. For this is not the only place Scripture testifies to the deity of Christ; that He is true God as well as true man. “Long ago … God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days, God has spoken to us by His Son”. (Hebrews 1:1-2a)

In John chapter 8, Jesus calls Himself “I Am” which is the Old Testament name of God. Jesus is directly called God by the Apostle’s Paul, Thomas and John. Jesus also possesses attributes and abilities that can only belong to God. According to Holy Scripture, Jesus is almighty, all knowing, eternal, present everywhere, worshipped by angels, and forgives sins. This is just a partial list.

Jesus is not a created being, He is also the creator, as John makes clear in the Gospel. “All things were made through Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made”. (John 1:3) This is also affirmed in many places in Scripture, as Paul declared “By Him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible … all things were created through Him and for Him”. (Colossians 1:16-17) The Epistle reading this morning also speaks of Jesus as One “through whom He also created the world”. (Hebrews 1:2b) The Holy Scriptures repeatedly testify to the fact that Jesus is true God.

“In Him was life and the life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it”. (John 1:4-5) The darkness John speaks of is spiritual, which began with the fall into sin in the Garden of Eden. It describes the ignorance and blindness of the world; a world that does not recognize or even want to know their God, creator, and Savior. Despite the depths of our sin, the light of Christ has come and remains and the darkness cannot conquer/defeat it. As we heard in Isaiah’s prophecy last night, “those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them a light has shined”. (Isaiah 9:2)

The Word of God incarnate, Jesus, has come into this fallen world to bring life, eternal life to the world through His life, death, and bodily resurrection. As Jesus said of Himself, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6) and “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life”. (John 8:12b) and “I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in Me may not remain in darkness”. (John 12:46) As Isaiah also prophesied, “The Lord has bared His holy arm before the eyes of all the nations, and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God”. (Isaiah 52:10)

Next the Apostle John mentions, John the Baptist saying “He came as a witness … He was not the light, but came to bear witness about the light”. (John 1:7-8) At the birth of Jesus, “the true light, which enlightens everyone, was coming into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made through Him (as we heard earlier). (John 1:9-10a)

Despite this wonderful blessing of God becoming man in the person of Jesus, “the world did not (in fact refused to) know Him”. (John1:10b) Jesus even “came to His own, and His own people (the Jews) did not receive Him”. (John 1:11) The Gospels testify that many heard the preaching of Jesus and walked away unchanged. This was not because God did not desire them to be saved, for He “desires all to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth”. (1st Timothy 2:4)

Sadly, most of the world rejects the saving Gospel, the work of Christ Jesus for them. They chose to live in (and embrace) the darkness of this present world; reveling in rather than repenting of their sins; “but to all who did receive Him; who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God; who were born, not of blood, nor of the will of flesh nor of the will of man, but of God”. (John 1:12-13) “For no one can say Jesus is Lord, except in the Holy Spirit”. (1st Corinthians 12:3b)

This shows that there is nothing we can do to earn the forgiveness of sins and favor with God; He makes us His children strictly by adoption; which we receive “by grace, through faith”; “in the water and the Word. “When the goodness and lovingkindness of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to His own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and the renewal of the Holy Spirit”. (Titus 3:4-5)

Jesus, who is true God, who has all of the attributes of God that we spoke of earlier; the one who created the world and all it contains; took on human flesh in the womb of the Virgin Mary. The reason for His birth was this; the creator suffered, bled and died for His sinful creation; for me, for you. As true God and man, Jesus atoned for the sins of the whole world and after a short rest in the tomb, rose bodily on the third day; conquering sin, death, and the devil.

Jesus is now and forever, true God and true man. He is present with us in His Word and Sacrament, offering the forgiveness of sins, strengthening of faith; life and salvation to all who repent and believe the Gospel. The Word who was “in the beginning with God and was God” (John 1:2) has “become flesh and dwelt among us” (John 1:14a) and is forever incarnate in the person of Jesus Christ. He is and remains our light, our life, and our salvation; “God with us”; now and for all eternity. Amen.

The peace of God …

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psalmonesermons · 1 year

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Battling our invisible enemies

Ephesians 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood...

In various places in the Bible we catch glimpses of the unseen spiritual realm. A good example of this is found in 2 Kings 6 when the King of Syria send soldiers to capture Elisha and his servant.

2 Kings 6:14-17

There is also a fascinating story over in Daniel 10 in which Daniel has been praying and fasting for three weeks or so.

Daniel 10:12-14

In this chapter we find angels battling through with the answer to a man`s prayer. In the New Testament a passage which gives us great insight into the spiritual realm is found in

Ephesians 6:10-18.

10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;

16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:

18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

The bad news is that the heavenlies [1] are teeming with a huge host of organized malignant spirits who hate God and his people.

The good news is that Jesus Christ has completely defeated them with his victory on the cross, and by his resurrection and ascension.

Colossians 2:9-15

Verse 15; And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in it.

By His victory [2], Jesus has made it obvious that these evil spirits were powerless to prevent his resurrection, and because of this, this verse shows us that we should not fear death as he is able to resurrect each believer in turn. He has also given us a full suit of amour [3] to stand against the devil, which in essence is just living a deliberate holy lifestyle.

So, as we are in a battle with these wicked spirits (they are the ones who stir up persecution and write the scripts that set the standard for what goes in society), we must continue to struggle against them and their influence on individuals and groups.

But let us not forget that Jesus disarmed them by taking away their ability to put the fear of death into God`s people and hence we can stand against them and bring in God`s will into any particular situation.

Amen

Personal Prayer

Explanatory footnotes

[1] The church is engaged in a spiritual war, and its enemy is Satan and a host of unseen angelic and celestial enemies whose power vastly exceeds our own. With a few exceptions, our enemies remain invisible to our eyes, but they nevertheless are real, and so is their opposition. These celestial enemies come in various forms, as is suggested by the variety of terms used by Paul to identify them: “rulers ” these are the 5 star generals, “powers,” “world forces of this darkness,” “spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places”.

In this war Satan employs a variety of strategies to oppose and to defeat the Christian. Paul does not speak of one single “scheme”, but of his many “schemes” (plural), likewise, there are different parts of God’s armour that we must put on to counteract each of them. Satan’s opposition against the church is not a frontal attack, but a subversive attack through intrigue, deception, and trickery, so we must remain prayerful and alert (Eph 6:18, 1 Peter 5:8).

[2] Victory with the devil under our feet

Psalm 110:1The Lord says to my lord: “Sit at my right hand until I make your enemies a footstool for your feet.”

Victory over demons

Colossians 1:15 The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. 16 For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.

Victory over sin and the ability to pull down strongholds

2 Corinthians 10:4 For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds. 5 We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

[3] When we put on the armour, we are putting on Christ. Of course, the whole armour of God is describing a day-to-day lifestyle lived in the knowledge of all that God has provided to protect us. Please note we should always be praying. Sometimes we can extend the shield of our faith over others, what do you think?

It is important to remember that when we put on the “full armour of God” we are putting on Christ (Rom. 13:14) Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature. (Eph 4:23) to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. Our protection against Satan’s attacks is assured only when we take up the full armour of God. Satan’s schemes are many, and he attacks us at any point where we are weak. Our armour must be complete. We cannot pick and choose what parts of the armour we prefer, but rather we must put all of it on. We must be completely equipped, or we will be vulnerable to his attacks.

#christianity #bible study #bibletruth #blog post #blessings #psalmonesermons #faith #invisible enemies

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shammah8 · 11 months

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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

KNOWING WHO THE CHRISTIAN IS

Tuesday, May 30th .

Pastor Chris

_*But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people... (1 Peter 2:9).*_

You may read the four gospels and not get a picture of the Christian life and who the Christian really is. This is because the gospels don’t completely give us the full picture of the life of Jesus after the resurrection. The account of His life before His ascension was very brief.

It’s part of the reasons He told His disciples about the Holy Spirit—the Spirit of truth—who would show them things to come and guide them into all truth (John 16:12-13). Therefore, the most appropriate reference point for the Christian, as you study the New Testament, are the epistles.

For example, Paul’s epistle to the Roman church—the Book of Romans—is an extraordinary exposition of the doctrine of the supremacy of Christ and of faith in Christ as the source of salvation. Also, consider his beautiful letter to the Ephesian church; it details how new converts can grow in their spiritual knowledge of God and in the realities of the Kingdom.

Think about Peter’s writings; in chapter one verse four of his second epistle, he said, _*“Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature....”*_ What a description of who the Christian is: we’re participators or sharers of God’s divine nature; associates of the God-kind—carriers or conveyors of the God-life. What a blessed reality!

There’s also the prophetic word on the millennial reign of Christ: everything the Lord promised to the Jews in the millennial reign is what He already gave the Church to enjoy today.

Therefore, if you want to know about the Christian life and who the Christian is, you need the Book of Acts, the revelations and admonitions in the epistles, and all the promises prophetically given to the Jews in the Millennium. Hallelujah!

*PRAYER*

*Dear Father, I’m thoroughly nourished, nurtured, sustained and fortified to attain spiritual maturity through the study of the realities of the new life in Christ. I make progress by the Spirit, and my profiting by the Word is unstoppable, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.*

*FURTHER STUDY:* *Colossians 1:26-27* [Even] the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: 27 To whom God would make known what [is] the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

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

*1 Peter 2:9 AMPC* But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God's] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

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