Moses prophecy about Christ fulfilled after 1,400 years.
Now after 2,000 years we know Christ is coming soon so
"Face to Face" would be good for worship time. [Did you
know this is Tony's favorite song]?
Verse 1
Face to face with Christ my Savior,
Face to Face what will it be--
When with rapture I behold Him,
Jesus Christ who died for me?
Chorus:
Face to Face I shall behold Him,
Far beyond the starry sky;
Face to face in all His glory,
I shall see Him by and by!
Verse 2
Only faintly now I see Him,
With the darkened veil between,
But a blessed day is coming
When His glory shall be seen.
[Chorus]
Verse 3
Face to face! O blissful moment!
Face to face--to see and know;
Face to face with my Redeemer,
Jesus Christ who loves me so.
[Chorus]
[Lyrics: Carrie E. Breck; 1Cor.13:12]
[Music: Grant Colfax Tullar]
I Corinthians 13:12 KJV For now we see through a
glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in
part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Moses Prophecy Christ
From the story of John 6:14-15 when people saw this miracle that Jesus did, they said, “He must truly be a prophet who is coming unto the world.” Where did the people learn that He might be a prophet? It goes back to the time of Moses found in Deut.18:15-19 in NCV.
A Prophet…Like Me.
Moses said: “The Lord your God will give you a prophet like me, who is one of your own people. Listen to him. v16 This is what you asked the Lord your God to do when you were gathered at Mount Sinai. You said, “Don’t make us listen to the voice of the Lord our God again, and don’t make us look at this terrible fire anymore, or we will die.” v 17 So the Lord said to me, “What they have said is good. v18 So I will give them a prophet like you, who is one of their own people. I will tell him what to say, and he will tell them everything I command. v19 This prophet will speak for me; anyone who does not listen when he speaks will answer to me.
Moses prophecy “a prophet like me” was Jesus Christ, the Messiah. Like Moses, this Prophet was to be an Israelite and would speak God’s word. The Jews of Jesus’ time were expecting the coming of this great Prophet. The date of writing that Moses had written was in 1405 B.C. and the people realized this Jesus Christ, the Messiah when Jesus was about 30 years old and that year would be about 30 A.D. [The birth of Jesus about 4 AD]. So that would be about 1,400 years of waiting for the coming of Christ, the Messiah. So the people knew about this and want to “force” Jesus to be their King, but it was the wrong time. The right time for His coming when Jesus will become the King, riding on the white horse and the Israelite will finally realize this is the true Messiah.
What does this means to me? Awesome learning when it comes to the topic of study devotion. My heart feels like a butterfly and excited to learn about the prophecy and where it fits in the Bible. There’s a lot to cover, but it is enough food to eat spiritually for today and may God touch your heart and bless you today.
A Prophet…Like Me.
Moses said: “The Lord your God will give you a prophet like me, who is one of your own people. Listen to him. v16 This is what you asked the Lord your God to do when you were gathered at Mount Sinai. You said, “Don’t make us listen to the voice of the Lord our God again, and don’t make us look at this terrible fire anymore, or we will die.” v 17 So the Lord said to me, “What they have said is good. v18 So I will give them a prophet like you, who is one of their own people. I will tell him what to say, and he will tell them everything I command. v19 This prophet will speak for me; anyone who does not listen when he speaks will answer to me.
Moses prophecy “a prophet like me” was Jesus Christ, the Messiah. Like Moses, this Prophet was to be an Israelite and would speak God’s word. The Jews of Jesus’ time were expecting the coming of this great Prophet. The date of writing that Moses had written was in 1405 B.C. and the people realized this Jesus Christ, the Messiah when Jesus was about 30 years old and that year would be about 30 A.D. [The birth of Jesus about 4 AD]. So that would be about 1,400 years of waiting for the coming of Christ, the Messiah. So the people knew about this and want to “force” Jesus to be their King, but it was the wrong time. The right time for His coming when Jesus will become the King, riding on the white horse and the Israelite will finally realize this is the true Messiah.
What does this means to me? Awesome learning when it comes to the topic of study devotion. My heart feels like a butterfly and excited to learn about the prophecy and where it fits in the Bible. There’s a lot to cover, but it is enough food to eat spiritually for today and may God touch your heart and bless you today.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Jesus, The Prophet
John 6:14-15 NCV
"Truly, He is the Prophet"
When the people saw this miracle that Jesus did,
they said, "He must truly be the Prophet who is
coming unto the world." Jesus knew that the people
planned to come and take him by force and make him
their king, so he left and went into the hills alone.
Dorothy:
After Jesus had fed 5,000 men plus women and children
with just two fish and five loaves, People tried to force
Jesus to become king. Have you notice the word 'force'?
Only Satan used that kind of force. The word "force" has
an interesting meaning. The closest meaning for here is
strength used against a person or taken by violence and
power to control. This was why Jesus had to leave because
the people tried to use their strength to control Jesus to
become the King. This could caused problem for Romans
if Jesus had become a King. It was not the right time.
Holy Spirit is a gentle person and He never does anything
by force. Gentleness is one of the nine fruits of the Spirit
[Galatians 5:22-23]. It is the gentleness that people
could see Christ in us. It is the kind of character that the
Holy Spirit continues to work in our hearts to have the
'gentle spirit' inside of us. It took me years to really
learn the difference between the 'forceful' character and
a 'gentle' character inside of us. I pray this would touch
you. May God bless you today.
"Truly, He is the Prophet"
When the people saw this miracle that Jesus did,
they said, "He must truly be the Prophet who is
coming unto the world." Jesus knew that the people
planned to come and take him by force and make him
their king, so he left and went into the hills alone.
Dorothy:
After Jesus had fed 5,000 men plus women and children
with just two fish and five loaves, People tried to force
Jesus to become king. Have you notice the word 'force'?
Only Satan used that kind of force. The word "force" has
an interesting meaning. The closest meaning for here is
strength used against a person or taken by violence and
power to control. This was why Jesus had to leave because
the people tried to use their strength to control Jesus to
become the King. This could caused problem for Romans
if Jesus had become a King. It was not the right time.
Holy Spirit is a gentle person and He never does anything
by force. Gentleness is one of the nine fruits of the Spirit
[Galatians 5:22-23]. It is the gentleness that people
could see Christ in us. It is the kind of character that the
Holy Spirit continues to work in our hearts to have the
'gentle spirit' inside of us. It took me years to really
learn the difference between the 'forceful' character and
a 'gentle' character inside of us. I pray this would touch
you. May God bless you today.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Jesus’ Biggest Thanksgiving
What was Jesus biggest Thanksgiving He has ever
given when He was on earth? He fed 5,000 men plus
women and children with just fishes and loaves.
Awesome? A time of thanksgiving that Jesus prayed
and thank God for food is an excellent example for
us to remember the day of thanking God for plenty
of food and His blessing on us.
Matthew 14:18-21 NCV
Jesus said, “Bring the bread and the fish to me.”
Then he told the people to sit down on the grass.
He took the five loaves and the two fish and, looking
to heaven, he thanked God for the food. Jesus divided
the bread and gave it to his followers, who gave it
to the people. All the people ate and were satisfied.
Then the followers filled twelve baskets with the
leftover pieces of food. There were about five
thousand men there who ate, not counting women
and children.
References: Mark 6:39-43; Luke 9:14-17; John 6:10-13
HAVE A HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY!
given when He was on earth? He fed 5,000 men plus
women and children with just fishes and loaves.
Awesome? A time of thanksgiving that Jesus prayed
and thank God for food is an excellent example for
us to remember the day of thanking God for plenty
of food and His blessing on us.
Matthew 14:18-21 NCV
Jesus said, “Bring the bread and the fish to me.”
Then he told the people to sit down on the grass.
He took the five loaves and the two fish and, looking
to heaven, he thanked God for the food. Jesus divided
the bread and gave it to his followers, who gave it
to the people. All the people ate and were satisfied.
Then the followers filled twelve baskets with the
leftover pieces of food. There were about five
thousand men there who ate, not counting women
and children.
References: Mark 6:39-43; Luke 9:14-17; John 6:10-13
HAVE A HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Prophecy about Christ
Matthew 3:11-12 NCV
“I baptize you with water to show that your hearts and lives have changed. But there is one coming after me who is greater than I am, whose sandals I am not good enough to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. He will come ready to clean the grain, separating the good grain from the chaff. He will put the good part of the grain into his barn, but he will burn the chaff with a fire that cannot be put out.”
John the Baptist, Prophecy about Christ
John the Baptist prophesied that Jesus will baptize them with the Holy Spirit and with fire. He was telling people what kind of work Christ will do as an example of wheat, the grain, separate the good grain from the chaff. There will be many people who will accept Christ and will enter heaven (grain into his barn) and also many who will reject Christ will go to hell (burn with fire forever).
John the Baptist was called by God to be a prophet for Him. So people will know that Christ will be among them. John told the disciples, “Behold the Lamb of God.” John prophesied that Jesus will become the Lamb, the One who will take away the sin of the world and this man is the Son of God. [John 1:29-34,35]. God told John the Baptist that he will see the Spirit come down and rest on a man; he is the One who will baptize with the Holy Spirit. John the Baptist said, “I have seen this happen, and I tell you the truth: This man is the Son of God.”
The word “prophecy” itself means “to speak forth,” and it involves two kinds of things: (1) a message for the people of the day and time in which the prophet lived, and (2) predictions of future events for the comfort, warning and guidance of God’s people.
John the Baptist gave message to people about Christ’s coming in his day and time that God had chosen. John the Baptist predict about Christ’s coming. This was an excitement time for Israel who had been waiting for the Messiah. This was a comfort time that “God through His Son will visit with them.” Christ also came to warn about the wrong way and also give guidance how to live the right way. [This was fulfillment through the Book of Gospels].
What can we learn from this? God spoke to John the Baptist about Christ. God wants to speak with you, too. Listen to Him.
“I baptize you with water to show that your hearts and lives have changed. But there is one coming after me who is greater than I am, whose sandals I am not good enough to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. He will come ready to clean the grain, separating the good grain from the chaff. He will put the good part of the grain into his barn, but he will burn the chaff with a fire that cannot be put out.”
John the Baptist, Prophecy about Christ
John the Baptist prophesied that Jesus will baptize them with the Holy Spirit and with fire. He was telling people what kind of work Christ will do as an example of wheat, the grain, separate the good grain from the chaff. There will be many people who will accept Christ and will enter heaven (grain into his barn) and also many who will reject Christ will go to hell (burn with fire forever).
John the Baptist was called by God to be a prophet for Him. So people will know that Christ will be among them. John told the disciples, “Behold the Lamb of God.” John prophesied that Jesus will become the Lamb, the One who will take away the sin of the world and this man is the Son of God. [John 1:29-34,35]. God told John the Baptist that he will see the Spirit come down and rest on a man; he is the One who will baptize with the Holy Spirit. John the Baptist said, “I have seen this happen, and I tell you the truth: This man is the Son of God.”
The word “prophecy” itself means “to speak forth,” and it involves two kinds of things: (1) a message for the people of the day and time in which the prophet lived, and (2) predictions of future events for the comfort, warning and guidance of God’s people.
John the Baptist gave message to people about Christ’s coming in his day and time that God had chosen. John the Baptist predict about Christ’s coming. This was an excitement time for Israel who had been waiting for the Messiah. This was a comfort time that “God through His Son will visit with them.” Christ also came to warn about the wrong way and also give guidance how to live the right way. [This was fulfillment through the Book of Gospels].
What can we learn from this? God spoke to John the Baptist about Christ. God wants to speak with you, too. Listen to Him.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Prophecy to Pharisees
Matthew 3:1-3 NIV
About that time John the Baptist began preaching in the desert area of Judah. John said, “Change your hearts and lives because the kingdom of God is near.” John the Baptist is the one Isaiah the prophet was talking about when he said: “This is a voice of one who calls out in the desert; ‘Prepare the way for the Lord. Make a road straight for Him.’”
John the Baptist, Prophecy to Pharisees
John the Baptist was a prophet and he was preaching and telling the people to prepare the way for Christ. He told the people to repent and be changed and be baptized in the water to prepare themselves for the coming of Christ. John had an insight, revealing the true spiritual condition of the Pharisees when they felt they did not need to repent and be changed because they were “preachers.” The Pharisees felt that coming from the line of Abraham, they were worthy Israelite of God and that they did not need to repent of the sins. John the Baptist warned them that they were no better than anyone and they still need to repent. When they refused to repent, John as a prophet had the foresight and warned them of God’s judgment against the Pharisees. That was the work of the prophet, he speak for God [Matthew 3:4-10].
What exactly does the word prophecy really means? In the Old Testament, the word “prophecy” itself means “to speak forth,” and it involves two kinds of things: (1) a message for the people of the day and time in which the prophet lived, and (2) predictions of future events for the comfort, warning and guidance of God’s people.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, we pray for people who may need to repent and turn from their ways and accept Jesus Christ as their Savior. We have authority over Satan from blinding their eyes that they do not need to be changed or need to repent. Through the blood of Jesus open their eyes to see the need to come back to You, Father through Jesus Your Son. We pray that they will open their eyes to see Your love for them and forgive their sins and redeem them through the cross of Jesus whom we love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
James 4:10 “Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord and He shall lift you up.” James 4:6 “…God resist the proud, but give grace unto the humble.”
About that time John the Baptist began preaching in the desert area of Judah. John said, “Change your hearts and lives because the kingdom of God is near.” John the Baptist is the one Isaiah the prophet was talking about when he said: “This is a voice of one who calls out in the desert; ‘Prepare the way for the Lord. Make a road straight for Him.’”
John the Baptist, Prophecy to Pharisees
John the Baptist was a prophet and he was preaching and telling the people to prepare the way for Christ. He told the people to repent and be changed and be baptized in the water to prepare themselves for the coming of Christ. John had an insight, revealing the true spiritual condition of the Pharisees when they felt they did not need to repent and be changed because they were “preachers.” The Pharisees felt that coming from the line of Abraham, they were worthy Israelite of God and that they did not need to repent of the sins. John the Baptist warned them that they were no better than anyone and they still need to repent. When they refused to repent, John as a prophet had the foresight and warned them of God’s judgment against the Pharisees. That was the work of the prophet, he speak for God [Matthew 3:4-10].
What exactly does the word prophecy really means? In the Old Testament, the word “prophecy” itself means “to speak forth,” and it involves two kinds of things: (1) a message for the people of the day and time in which the prophet lived, and (2) predictions of future events for the comfort, warning and guidance of God’s people.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, we pray for people who may need to repent and turn from their ways and accept Jesus Christ as their Savior. We have authority over Satan from blinding their eyes that they do not need to be changed or need to repent. Through the blood of Jesus open their eyes to see the need to come back to You, Father through Jesus Your Son. We pray that they will open their eyes to see Your love for them and forgive their sins and redeem them through the cross of Jesus whom we love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen!
James 4:10 “Humble yourself in the sight of the Lord and He shall lift you up.” James 4:6 “…God resist the proud, but give grace unto the humble.”
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Prophecy to Disciples
Jesus said, “Let not your heart be troubled, Ye believe in God, believe also in Me” [John 14:1]. Jesus was with the disciples when He told them that He was going back to His Father and Jesus gave prophecy to His disciples. “In My Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also” [John 14:2-3].
The disciples were troubled at heart when they learned Jesus was leaving and they had many questions what could they do after He left them. Jesus gave them prophecy that Holy Spirit, their Comforter will come and be with them and He will teach them many things. The disciples were comforted when Jesus said, “I will come again and take you home with Me.” This was a prophetic promise to disciples and it brought peace and assurance to their troubled hearts.
What does this apply to us?
We have the Holy Spirit who works inside of us and many times we don’t know what is going to happen between now and the future. Romans 8:26-27 tells us that the Spirit, himself speaks to God for us, even begs God for us with deep feelings that words cannot explain. God can see what is in our hearts. Holy Spirit is like a prophet, speak to God for us. Holy Spirit has an insight and foresight. Holy Spirit sees inside of us and also sees everything around us that would burden our heart to pray through the Spirit.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, sometimes we get scared not knowing what to expect from day to day, and we thank You for having the Holy Spirit as our Comforter to pray through us and that You would give us peace and assurance to our troubled hearts. Thank You for the word of prophecy from Jesus that He will come again and take us home with Him. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
Song: Draw Me Nearer
I am thine O Lord, I have heard Thy voice
And it told of Your love for me.
But I long to rise in the arms of faith
And be closer draw to Thee.
Draw me nearer, nearer Blessed Lord
To the cross where Thou has died.
Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord…
To Thy precious bleeding side.
[Out of memory and my favorite worship song]
The disciples were troubled at heart when they learned Jesus was leaving and they had many questions what could they do after He left them. Jesus gave them prophecy that Holy Spirit, their Comforter will come and be with them and He will teach them many things. The disciples were comforted when Jesus said, “I will come again and take you home with Me.” This was a prophetic promise to disciples and it brought peace and assurance to their troubled hearts.
What does this apply to us?
We have the Holy Spirit who works inside of us and many times we don’t know what is going to happen between now and the future. Romans 8:26-27 tells us that the Spirit, himself speaks to God for us, even begs God for us with deep feelings that words cannot explain. God can see what is in our hearts. Holy Spirit is like a prophet, speak to God for us. Holy Spirit has an insight and foresight. Holy Spirit sees inside of us and also sees everything around us that would burden our heart to pray through the Spirit.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, sometimes we get scared not knowing what to expect from day to day, and we thank You for having the Holy Spirit as our Comforter to pray through us and that You would give us peace and assurance to our troubled hearts. Thank You for the word of prophecy from Jesus that He will come again and take us home with Him. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
Song: Draw Me Nearer
I am thine O Lord, I have heard Thy voice
And it told of Your love for me.
But I long to rise in the arms of faith
And be closer draw to Thee.
Draw me nearer, nearer Blessed Lord
To the cross where Thou has died.
Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord…
To Thy precious bleeding side.
[Out of memory and my favorite worship song]
Thursday, November 20, 2008
The Bible is a book of Prophecy
Some people think it is very difficult to study the prophecy. Why do we need to really know about the future or even to spend time on investigating the portions of Scripture that do not directly concern us? The answer is, “All Scripture…is profitable…” 2 Tim.3:16.
We need to gain this knowledge of prophecy which will make our Christian experience richer. 1 John 3:3 NIV “Christ is pure, and all who have this hope in Christ keep themselves pure like Christ.” This Scripture clearly teaches the purity which influences our life as a Christian and knowing that Jesus Christ is coming soon. This is a future prophecy. Jesus said, “Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you [John 15:3]. Keeping in touch with Jesus through His Word prepares us for His coming.
Note: It is through hope and expectation in Christ’s coming to help the Christian to avoid entangling (get involved with) himself in the many worldly movements and practices of these last days which, if entered into, would “dull” (lose) his spiritual sensibilities (sense). And perhaps even loses God’s desire for the Christian’s readiness for the Lord’s coming. [readiness= getting ready for]
Prophecy is the closest thing that “God could reveal His secrets unto His servants” [Amos 3:7]. God’s purposes in revealing His plans for the future to His children is His desire for fellowship with them in revealing His mind and heart to them. “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him.” To Abraham, His friend, God revealed why He had to send judgment against Sodom and Gomorrah. This led to a very intimate (close) conversation between Abraham and the Lord about preserving (saving) some righteous in Sodom.
How close can God come to you and reveal His secret to you? God has a desire to talk with you like He talked with Abraham. Oh the wonder of it all that God just want you and have fellowship with you.
Song:
Oh, the wonder of it all, the wonder of it all,
Just to think that God loves me.
Oh, the wonder of it all, the wonder of it all,
Just to think that God loves me.
We need to gain this knowledge of prophecy which will make our Christian experience richer. 1 John 3:3 NIV “Christ is pure, and all who have this hope in Christ keep themselves pure like Christ.” This Scripture clearly teaches the purity which influences our life as a Christian and knowing that Jesus Christ is coming soon. This is a future prophecy. Jesus said, “Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you [John 15:3]. Keeping in touch with Jesus through His Word prepares us for His coming.
Note: It is through hope and expectation in Christ’s coming to help the Christian to avoid entangling (get involved with) himself in the many worldly movements and practices of these last days which, if entered into, would “dull” (lose) his spiritual sensibilities (sense). And perhaps even loses God’s desire for the Christian’s readiness for the Lord’s coming. [readiness= getting ready for]
Prophecy is the closest thing that “God could reveal His secrets unto His servants” [Amos 3:7]. God’s purposes in revealing His plans for the future to His children is His desire for fellowship with them in revealing His mind and heart to them. “The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him.” To Abraham, His friend, God revealed why He had to send judgment against Sodom and Gomorrah. This led to a very intimate (close) conversation between Abraham and the Lord about preserving (saving) some righteous in Sodom.
How close can God come to you and reveal His secret to you? God has a desire to talk with you like He talked with Abraham. Oh the wonder of it all that God just want you and have fellowship with you.
Song:
Oh, the wonder of it all, the wonder of it all,
Just to think that God loves me.
Oh, the wonder of it all, the wonder of it all,
Just to think that God loves me.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Rejoice in the Lord
Philippians 4:4
NCV: Be full of joy in the Lord always. I will say again, be full of joy.
KJV: Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.
Dorothy:
During those 13 days of having studying the Word of God and sharing on Fresh Manna devotion causes my heart to rejoice in the Lord and I sense a deep peace. "Those who love Your teachings will find true peace" [Psalm 119:165a]. I will read the Fresh Manna again for few days because it bring deep peace and rejoicing in my heart to know more about the Bible. It is easy for us to forget God's Word and it is important to go over them again until it goes deep into our soul. Whenever we read or study His Word, it stays in our hearts forever. This may be the reason why Paul rejoice because He knew the Word of God is everlasting life. God's Word brings peace. Thank you Holy Spirit for being our teacher. "He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance..."[John 14:26].
Song: Rejoice in the Lord
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice.
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice.
Rejoice, Rejoice, again I say rejoice.
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice.
NCV: Be full of joy in the Lord always. I will say again, be full of joy.
KJV: Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice.
Dorothy:
During those 13 days of having studying the Word of God and sharing on Fresh Manna devotion causes my heart to rejoice in the Lord and I sense a deep peace. "Those who love Your teachings will find true peace" [Psalm 119:165a]. I will read the Fresh Manna again for few days because it bring deep peace and rejoicing in my heart to know more about the Bible. It is easy for us to forget God's Word and it is important to go over them again until it goes deep into our soul. Whenever we read or study His Word, it stays in our hearts forever. This may be the reason why Paul rejoice because He knew the Word of God is everlasting life. God's Word brings peace. Thank you Holy Spirit for being our teacher. "He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance..."[John 14:26].
Song: Rejoice in the Lord
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice.
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice.
Rejoice, Rejoice, again I say rejoice.
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice.
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Moved By the Holy Spirit
2 Peter 1:21
NCV: No prophecy ever came from what a person wanted to say, but people led by the Holy Spirit spoke words from God. KJV: For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
When Peter wrote two letters, he was becoming old and he wanted the generations to remember these things after he was gone. Peter was not making up stories about Christ. Peter and the disciples had seen the greatness of Jesus with their own eyes. Peter wanted the Christians to understand that “No prophecy in the Scriptures ever comes from the prophet’s own interpretation” [2 Pet.1:20]. “Men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke by God.” 1,500 years (1400 BC-97 AD) and more than 35 prophets wrote 66 books prove that the Holy Spirit is the author of the Bible.
Dorothy: How is the Bible different than other books? [I like to share this notes from Introduction to Prophecy by Frank M. Boyd—by the Gospel Publishing House (1948)]. “The Bible, God’s divine book, the sacred word of the Christian faith, differs in many ways from sacred writings of other religious—the Vedas and Shastras of Hinduism; the Zend-Avesta of the Zoroastrian fire-worshipers of Persia; the Koran of the Mohammedans—concerning the concept of God, but there is one fundamental difference. That difference is in the fact that the sacred books of all other religious have not a word of prophecy or prediction of future events, while the Bible is full of such predictions—some already fulfilled, others in process of fulfillment in our day and time, and still others to be fulfilled in the future. Fulfilled prophecy and attested miracles, constitute the twin pillars which uphold the structure of the inspiration of the Scripture.”
[Meaning of the word: ATTEST 1. declare to be true or genuine. 2. to certify, as by oath. 3. to serve as proof of. v.i.= to bear witness to.] Note: Twin pillars: One pillar is fulfilled prophecy. Second pillar is attest miracle. Top “stone” of those two pillars is the Bible. So twin pillars hold up the building of the Bible, the Inspiration of the Scripture.
The Bible is a Book of Prophecy. Prophecy is a powerful witness when it became fulfilled. Thirty-five authors in the span of 1,500 years all came in harmony with the Scripture is a miracle. This is a proof of Holy Spirit’s work.
Prayer: Thank You, God, that You are the only God that will make Your promises and prophecies come to the fulfillment and that You will fulfilled the rest of the prophecies soon. Yes, You are the real living God in Jesus’ name, amen.
NCV: No prophecy ever came from what a person wanted to say, but people led by the Holy Spirit spoke words from God. KJV: For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit.
When Peter wrote two letters, he was becoming old and he wanted the generations to remember these things after he was gone. Peter was not making up stories about Christ. Peter and the disciples had seen the greatness of Jesus with their own eyes. Peter wanted the Christians to understand that “No prophecy in the Scriptures ever comes from the prophet’s own interpretation” [2 Pet.1:20]. “Men moved by the Holy Spirit spoke by God.” 1,500 years (1400 BC-97 AD) and more than 35 prophets wrote 66 books prove that the Holy Spirit is the author of the Bible.
Dorothy: How is the Bible different than other books? [I like to share this notes from Introduction to Prophecy by Frank M. Boyd—by the Gospel Publishing House (1948)]. “The Bible, God’s divine book, the sacred word of the Christian faith, differs in many ways from sacred writings of other religious—the Vedas and Shastras of Hinduism; the Zend-Avesta of the Zoroastrian fire-worshipers of Persia; the Koran of the Mohammedans—concerning the concept of God, but there is one fundamental difference. That difference is in the fact that the sacred books of all other religious have not a word of prophecy or prediction of future events, while the Bible is full of such predictions—some already fulfilled, others in process of fulfillment in our day and time, and still others to be fulfilled in the future. Fulfilled prophecy and attested miracles, constitute the twin pillars which uphold the structure of the inspiration of the Scripture.”
[Meaning of the word: ATTEST 1. declare to be true or genuine. 2. to certify, as by oath. 3. to serve as proof of. v.i.= to bear witness to.] Note: Twin pillars: One pillar is fulfilled prophecy. Second pillar is attest miracle. Top “stone” of those two pillars is the Bible. So twin pillars hold up the building of the Bible, the Inspiration of the Scripture.
The Bible is a Book of Prophecy. Prophecy is a powerful witness when it became fulfilled. Thirty-five authors in the span of 1,500 years all came in harmony with the Scripture is a miracle. This is a proof of Holy Spirit’s work.
Prayer: Thank You, God, that You are the only God that will make Your promises and prophecies come to the fulfillment and that You will fulfilled the rest of the prophecies soon. Yes, You are the real living God in Jesus’ name, amen.
Friday, November 14, 2008
All Scripture Is Inspired
2 Timothy 3:16-17
NCV: All Scripture is given by God and is useful for teaching, for showing people what is wrong in their lives, for correcting faults, and for teaching how to live right. Using the Scriptures, the person who serves God will be capable, having all that is needed to do every good work.
KJV: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
“Scripture” as used in 2 Tim. 3:16 referred to the Old Testament writing (3:15). The New Testament writings came later to put together with Old Testament, called “the Bible.” For us today, Scripture refers to the authoritative writings of the O.T. and N.T., “the Bible.” So Paul affirms that all Scripture is inspired by God. The word “inspired” comes from two Greek words: theos, meaning “God,” and pneo, meaning “to breathe.” So, “inspired” means “God-breathed.” All Scripture is therefore God-breathed; it is the very life and Word of God. [Some note from Zondervan].
Dorothy: I want to know what the dictionary would define the inspiration so I looked it up. The root meaning of the word inspire is to put thought, feeling, life, force into something. It is like arouse or influence by a divine force. The inspiration is a noun and it is more of influence of thought and strong feelings on good actions. So the commentaries note seems clearer and very exciting to realize that it is “God-breathed.” When I study this topic, I thought ‘wow, God-breathed’? I remember Peter mentioned that the “holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost” [2 Pet.1:21b]. I think I will continue this study on the next Fresh Manna.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, amazing that all Scripture is God-breathed from You. So studying Your Word is God-breathed. No wonder You want us to study Your Word, God-breathed. Studying Your Word cause us to feel alive, active and motivate to worship You, to love You, to sing to You and be in the fullness of Your Holy Spirit. I pray for my friends and families to get to know You as a personal God and stay in the union with You through Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen!
Note: Donald C. Stamps who was a missionary in Brazil, the writer of study notes and articles and the co-workers put together The Full Life Study Bible. Donald died November 7, 1991. This Bible was a precious gift from a friend and it became a blessing to me and Tony. God bless you.
NCV: All Scripture is given by God and is useful for teaching, for showing people what is wrong in their lives, for correcting faults, and for teaching how to live right. Using the Scriptures, the person who serves God will be capable, having all that is needed to do every good work.
KJV: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.”
“Scripture” as used in 2 Tim. 3:16 referred to the Old Testament writing (3:15). The New Testament writings came later to put together with Old Testament, called “the Bible.” For us today, Scripture refers to the authoritative writings of the O.T. and N.T., “the Bible.” So Paul affirms that all Scripture is inspired by God. The word “inspired” comes from two Greek words: theos, meaning “God,” and pneo, meaning “to breathe.” So, “inspired” means “God-breathed.” All Scripture is therefore God-breathed; it is the very life and Word of God. [Some note from Zondervan].
Dorothy: I want to know what the dictionary would define the inspiration so I looked it up. The root meaning of the word inspire is to put thought, feeling, life, force into something. It is like arouse or influence by a divine force. The inspiration is a noun and it is more of influence of thought and strong feelings on good actions. So the commentaries note seems clearer and very exciting to realize that it is “God-breathed.” When I study this topic, I thought ‘wow, God-breathed’? I remember Peter mentioned that the “holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost” [2 Pet.1:21b]. I think I will continue this study on the next Fresh Manna.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, amazing that all Scripture is God-breathed from You. So studying Your Word is God-breathed. No wonder You want us to study Your Word, God-breathed. Studying Your Word cause us to feel alive, active and motivate to worship You, to love You, to sing to You and be in the fullness of Your Holy Spirit. I pray for my friends and families to get to know You as a personal God and stay in the union with You through Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen!
Note: Donald C. Stamps who was a missionary in Brazil, the writer of study notes and articles and the co-workers put together The Full Life Study Bible. Donald died November 7, 1991. This Bible was a precious gift from a friend and it became a blessing to me and Tony. God bless you.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Sharper Sword
Hebrews 4:12-13
KJV: For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and SHARPER than any two edged SWORD, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.
NCV: God’s word is alive and working and is SHARPER than a double-edged SWORD. It cuts all the way into us, where the soul and the spirit are joined, to the center of our joints and bones. And it judges the thoughts and feelings in our hearts. Nothing in all the world can be hidden from God. Everything is clear and lies open before Him, and to Him we must explain the way we have lived.
The Word of God is a sharp sword that cuts into our innermost being. It means that the Word of God has the power to judge us. The Word of God is a discerner. God is a person, who discerns and He can see everything. Reading or studying the Word of God helps us to see clearly whether our thoughts and motives are spiritual or fleshly. The Sword, like the Word of God, has two sharp sides, (1) either cutting to save our lives or (2) judging us unto eternal death. Jesus Himself explains that the Spirit gives life and the Word that He speaks is life. The flesh doesn’t give life [John 6:63]. Jesus Himself said what will judge us in the last day is His word [John 12:48].
The meaning of the words:
Discern= 1. to perceive; see clearly; distinguish; recognize.
Discerner= A person who discerns.
Perceive= 1. to understand 2. be aware of through senses; see, hear, taste, smell, or feel.
Distinguish= 1. tell apart 2. see or show the difference.3. separate into different groups. In another word, show the difference between things.
The meaning of the words might help us to understand the purposes of the Word of God, the discerner. It is important to ask the Holy Spirit to open our hearts and minds to grasp the meaning of Heb. 4:12-13. If you remember John 15:1-2, it explains that God, the Father is the gardener and He cuts off every branch that does not produce fruit. He trims and cleans every branch that produces fruit so that it will produce even more fruit. Notice the words, “He cuts, He trims and He cleans our branches.” Why? God wants to make more fruits in our lives [Galatians 5:22-24]. Gal. 5:16-26 is an example what Paul was teaching the Christians to know the difference between The Spirit and the human nature. So Paul’s teaching the Word of God is like a sword cutting off the “fleshly problem” and to bring more fruits in their lives. May God richly bless you.
KJV: For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and SHARPER than any two edged SWORD, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.
NCV: God’s word is alive and working and is SHARPER than a double-edged SWORD. It cuts all the way into us, where the soul and the spirit are joined, to the center of our joints and bones. And it judges the thoughts and feelings in our hearts. Nothing in all the world can be hidden from God. Everything is clear and lies open before Him, and to Him we must explain the way we have lived.
The Word of God is a sharp sword that cuts into our innermost being. It means that the Word of God has the power to judge us. The Word of God is a discerner. God is a person, who discerns and He can see everything. Reading or studying the Word of God helps us to see clearly whether our thoughts and motives are spiritual or fleshly. The Sword, like the Word of God, has two sharp sides, (1) either cutting to save our lives or (2) judging us unto eternal death. Jesus Himself explains that the Spirit gives life and the Word that He speaks is life. The flesh doesn’t give life [John 6:63]. Jesus Himself said what will judge us in the last day is His word [John 12:48].
The meaning of the words:
Discern= 1. to perceive; see clearly; distinguish; recognize.
Discerner= A person who discerns.
Perceive= 1. to understand 2. be aware of through senses; see, hear, taste, smell, or feel.
Distinguish= 1. tell apart 2. see or show the difference.3. separate into different groups. In another word, show the difference between things.
The meaning of the words might help us to understand the purposes of the Word of God, the discerner. It is important to ask the Holy Spirit to open our hearts and minds to grasp the meaning of Heb. 4:12-13. If you remember John 15:1-2, it explains that God, the Father is the gardener and He cuts off every branch that does not produce fruit. He trims and cleans every branch that produces fruit so that it will produce even more fruit. Notice the words, “He cuts, He trims and He cleans our branches.” Why? God wants to make more fruits in our lives [Galatians 5:22-24]. Gal. 5:16-26 is an example what Paul was teaching the Christians to know the difference between The Spirit and the human nature. So Paul’s teaching the Word of God is like a sword cutting off the “fleshly problem” and to bring more fruits in their lives. May God richly bless you.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
The Wrath of God
Revelation 19:15b-16 NCV:
“…and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will crush out the wine in the winepress of the terrible anger of God the Almighty. On his robe and on his upper leg was written this name: King of kings and Lord of lords.”
The verse quote, "rule them with a rod of iron" means to destroy them. Do you ever wonder what does this quote really means “He will crush out the wine in the winepress?” Have you ever seen the old fashioned big winepress with people whose feet would stomp over and over until it crushed the grapes and the juice or wine would flow out into the barrel? This is the picture of how God feels toward anyone who does not believe in His Son [John 3:36]. God has a personality: He loves, He cares, He hates, and He grieves.
John 3:36 “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but THE WRATH OF GOD ABIDETH ON HIM.
Is it hard to imagine that God so love the world that He could become an angry God sometime? If you read the Old Testament stories from the book of Judges about how the people turned into sins and worship their idols, and forgot about the True Living God who should be worshiped, then you would understand why God allow enemies to come into their land and defeat the Israelite. What was the result? They cried out to the Lord for help and God always send a Judge to help them defeat the enemies and they would have peace as long as they worship the True Living God.
John 3:36 is something we could pray that somehow the Holy Spirit would open their eyes to understand the terrible wrath of God on the person when he or she does not believe and accept God’s Son, Jesus Christ as their Savior. We pray that Holy Spirit would somehow reach their hearts through hearing the Word of God and that their eyes would be open to understand that God does love them and want to give them eternal life. But to reject His Son and they need to understand that God has the right to become angry because they will not have eternal life in heaven. This is something to think about and share with our friends if they know about this verse from John 3:36.
The conversation could begin like this: Did you know that God is angry when someone rejects His Son? Maybe they say: No, I didn’t know. Do you have the proof that God can be an angry God? Sure, it is found in John 3:36. You could go from there. God bless you.
“…and he will rule them with a rod of iron. He will crush out the wine in the winepress of the terrible anger of God the Almighty. On his robe and on his upper leg was written this name: King of kings and Lord of lords.”
The verse quote, "rule them with a rod of iron" means to destroy them. Do you ever wonder what does this quote really means “He will crush out the wine in the winepress?” Have you ever seen the old fashioned big winepress with people whose feet would stomp over and over until it crushed the grapes and the juice or wine would flow out into the barrel? This is the picture of how God feels toward anyone who does not believe in His Son [John 3:36]. God has a personality: He loves, He cares, He hates, and He grieves.
John 3:36 “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but THE WRATH OF GOD ABIDETH ON HIM.
Is it hard to imagine that God so love the world that He could become an angry God sometime? If you read the Old Testament stories from the book of Judges about how the people turned into sins and worship their idols, and forgot about the True Living God who should be worshiped, then you would understand why God allow enemies to come into their land and defeat the Israelite. What was the result? They cried out to the Lord for help and God always send a Judge to help them defeat the enemies and they would have peace as long as they worship the True Living God.
John 3:36 is something we could pray that somehow the Holy Spirit would open their eyes to understand the terrible wrath of God on the person when he or she does not believe and accept God’s Son, Jesus Christ as their Savior. We pray that Holy Spirit would somehow reach their hearts through hearing the Word of God and that their eyes would be open to understand that God does love them and want to give them eternal life. But to reject His Son and they need to understand that God has the right to become angry because they will not have eternal life in heaven. This is something to think about and share with our friends if they know about this verse from John 3:36.
The conversation could begin like this: Did you know that God is angry when someone rejects His Son? Maybe they say: No, I didn’t know. Do you have the proof that God can be an angry God? Sure, it is found in John 3:36. You could go from there. God bless you.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Sharp Sword
Revelation 2:12b
KJV: “These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges.” NCV: “The One who has the sharp, double-edged sword…”
There is a prophecy about Christ’s coming to earth in Revelation 19:13-16. He will come with His armies of heaven, riding on a white horse. His mouth will be a sharp sword. He will defeat the nations who will fight against Him. His name is called The Word of God.
Revelation 19:13-15a NCV:
“He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven, dressed in fine linen, white and clean, were following him on white horses. Out of the rider’s mouth comes a SHARP SWORD that he will use to defeat the nations…”
Jesus will simply speak the word and His word is sharper than two-edged sword. His word will probably be like a “laser-beam” and become like shooting swords against the enemies. All who opposed Him will be destroyed.
The Word of God mentioned that there will be armies that will come with Christ riding on white horses. How do they qualify to join armies of the Lord? God called Paul to teach us, ‘Born-again Believers’ from the word of God, how to be prepared for the battle against Satan. It is found in Ephesians 6:10-18. Put on the whole armor of God means to put God first and study His Word to help us prepare for the battles against the devil’s evil tricks. This is important preparation and be ready to join the army of the Lord in the future.
Like Him, we will speak as sharp sword because Jesus gave us the authority over the enemies. In Luke 10:19 Jesus said, “Behold, I give unto you POWER TO TREAD ON SERPENTS AND SCORPIONS, and OVER ALL THE POWER OF THE ENEMY: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” Wow, I pray that your eyes will be opened to see the Truth from the Lord Jesus Christ who loves us so much and how He wants to bless us with everlasting life and with everlasting love. May God richly bless you today.
KJV: “These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges.” NCV: “The One who has the sharp, double-edged sword…”
There is a prophecy about Christ’s coming to earth in Revelation 19:13-16. He will come with His armies of heaven, riding on a white horse. His mouth will be a sharp sword. He will defeat the nations who will fight against Him. His name is called The Word of God.
Revelation 19:13-15a NCV:
“He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. The armies of heaven, dressed in fine linen, white and clean, were following him on white horses. Out of the rider’s mouth comes a SHARP SWORD that he will use to defeat the nations…”
Jesus will simply speak the word and His word is sharper than two-edged sword. His word will probably be like a “laser-beam” and become like shooting swords against the enemies. All who opposed Him will be destroyed.
The Word of God mentioned that there will be armies that will come with Christ riding on white horses. How do they qualify to join armies of the Lord? God called Paul to teach us, ‘Born-again Believers’ from the word of God, how to be prepared for the battle against Satan. It is found in Ephesians 6:10-18. Put on the whole armor of God means to put God first and study His Word to help us prepare for the battles against the devil’s evil tricks. This is important preparation and be ready to join the army of the Lord in the future.
Like Him, we will speak as sharp sword because Jesus gave us the authority over the enemies. In Luke 10:19 Jesus said, “Behold, I give unto you POWER TO TREAD ON SERPENTS AND SCORPIONS, and OVER ALL THE POWER OF THE ENEMY: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” Wow, I pray that your eyes will be opened to see the Truth from the Lord Jesus Christ who loves us so much and how He wants to bless us with everlasting life and with everlasting love. May God richly bless you today.
Monday, November 10, 2008
God’s Word is Sword
Ephesians 6:17
KJV: “…and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
NCV: “…take the Sword of the Spirit which is the word of God.”
The word of God is like the sword that God has given us to fight against Satan. In the story of Jesus’ victory over the temptations of Satan, each time Jesus defeated Satan by declaring, “It is written” and it stands as “God’s infallible Word” [Luke 4:1-11; Mat.4:1-11]. Infallible means incapable error; dependable; reliable. When Jesus quoted “It is written,” it means that God’s word cannot be changed. God’s word cannot be compromised.
It is like Satan tried to manipulate, to work or handle skillfully, to manage artfully or shrewdly, often in unfair ways. Satan tried to “use” Jesus for his own selfish purposes. Jesus knew Satan’s goal from three different kinds of temptations. Jesus quoted, “It is written” from God’s word to defeat Satan’s selfish goal.
What was Satan’s goal? Satan wanted and today still wants to be number one, above God. In order to do that, Jesus would have to give in to Satan, but Jesus refused because God is to be worshiped, not Satan. This is where we learn from Jesus how to use the Sword of the Spirit which is the word of God.
Dorothy: Why is it so important for me to study His word?
Since the beginning of my salvation at the age of 13, there were many battles and temptations that I had faced and there were times I became confused. Even though I would read through the Bible, but still I did not have the understanding of God’s Word to learn how to fight the temptations in the right way.
I was like a baby in Christ just learning to drink milk and not skillful with God’s Word yet. Through the years of studying God’s Word, and with the help of Holy Spirit, I grew spiritually and learned to see the difference between good and evil [Heb. 5:14]. KJV: But strong meat belongeth to them that are full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
NCV: But solid food is for those who are grown up. They have practiced in order to know the difference between good and evil.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I pray that You, through the Holy Spirit gives us wisdom to study Your Word. Your Word becomes our guide for daily living against our enemy, Satan. Thank You for the wonderful Word of Life in us. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen!
KJV: “…and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”
NCV: “…take the Sword of the Spirit which is the word of God.”
The word of God is like the sword that God has given us to fight against Satan. In the story of Jesus’ victory over the temptations of Satan, each time Jesus defeated Satan by declaring, “It is written” and it stands as “God’s infallible Word” [Luke 4:1-11; Mat.4:1-11]. Infallible means incapable error; dependable; reliable. When Jesus quoted “It is written,” it means that God’s word cannot be changed. God’s word cannot be compromised.
It is like Satan tried to manipulate, to work or handle skillfully, to manage artfully or shrewdly, often in unfair ways. Satan tried to “use” Jesus for his own selfish purposes. Jesus knew Satan’s goal from three different kinds of temptations. Jesus quoted, “It is written” from God’s word to defeat Satan’s selfish goal.
What was Satan’s goal? Satan wanted and today still wants to be number one, above God. In order to do that, Jesus would have to give in to Satan, but Jesus refused because God is to be worshiped, not Satan. This is where we learn from Jesus how to use the Sword of the Spirit which is the word of God.
Dorothy: Why is it so important for me to study His word?
Since the beginning of my salvation at the age of 13, there were many battles and temptations that I had faced and there were times I became confused. Even though I would read through the Bible, but still I did not have the understanding of God’s Word to learn how to fight the temptations in the right way.
I was like a baby in Christ just learning to drink milk and not skillful with God’s Word yet. Through the years of studying God’s Word, and with the help of Holy Spirit, I grew spiritually and learned to see the difference between good and evil [Heb. 5:14]. KJV: But strong meat belongeth to them that are full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
NCV: But solid food is for those who are grown up. They have practiced in order to know the difference between good and evil.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I pray that You, through the Holy Spirit gives us wisdom to study Your Word. Your Word becomes our guide for daily living against our enemy, Satan. Thank You for the wonderful Word of Life in us. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen!
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Grow Through The Word of God
1 Peter 2:2-3
KJV: As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the lord is gracious.
NCV: As newborn babies want milk, you should want the pure and simple teaching. By it you can grow up and be saved, because you have already examined and seen how good the Lord is.
As born-again children of God we long for and crave the pure milk of God’s Word in our life. God’s Word has the power to give new life. Peter testifies that we are born again “by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever” [1 Peter 1:23; 2 Tim. 3:15; James 1:18]. It is for this reason that Jesus Himself is called “the Word of life” [1 John 1:1].
God’s Word releases grace, power, and revelation by which we as believers grow in faith and in our commitment to Jesus Christ. Isaiah uses a powerful picture: just as water from the sky causes things to grow physically, so also the word that proceeds out of the mouth of God causes us to grow spiritually [Isaiah 55:10-11]. Peter pictured the same thought when he writes that by drinking the pure milk of the word of God, we grow in our salvation [1 Peter 2:2]. A sure sign of our spiritual growth is a strong desire to feed on the living and abiding Word of God.
Here are the examples of references from the Bible.
1. We become eagerly to hear God’s word.
2. We seek to understand God’s word.
3. We praise God’s word.
4. We are to love God’s word.
5. Let the Word be our joy and delight.
6. We accept what the word of God says.
7. We hide God’s Word deep within our hearts.
8. We learn to trust God’s Word.
9. We place our hope in His promises.
10. We obey what God commands us to do.
11. We live according to God’s word.
12. God calls those who minister the word to handle it rightly.
13. We are to preach or teach or share God’s word faithfully.
14. All believers are called to share the message of God’s word.
[Acts 17:11; Matt.13:23; Ps. 56:10; Ps.119:47; Ps.119:16; 1Thes.2:13; Ps.110:11; Ps. 119:42; Ps.130:5; Ps.119:10,17; Ps.119:9; 2Tim.3:15; 2Tim.4:2; Acts 8:4]
KJV: As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the lord is gracious.
NCV: As newborn babies want milk, you should want the pure and simple teaching. By it you can grow up and be saved, because you have already examined and seen how good the Lord is.
As born-again children of God we long for and crave the pure milk of God’s Word in our life. God’s Word has the power to give new life. Peter testifies that we are born again “by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever” [1 Peter 1:23; 2 Tim. 3:15; James 1:18]. It is for this reason that Jesus Himself is called “the Word of life” [1 John 1:1].
God’s Word releases grace, power, and revelation by which we as believers grow in faith and in our commitment to Jesus Christ. Isaiah uses a powerful picture: just as water from the sky causes things to grow physically, so also the word that proceeds out of the mouth of God causes us to grow spiritually [Isaiah 55:10-11]. Peter pictured the same thought when he writes that by drinking the pure milk of the word of God, we grow in our salvation [1 Peter 2:2]. A sure sign of our spiritual growth is a strong desire to feed on the living and abiding Word of God.
Here are the examples of references from the Bible.
1. We become eagerly to hear God’s word.
2. We seek to understand God’s word.
3. We praise God’s word.
4. We are to love God’s word.
5. Let the Word be our joy and delight.
6. We accept what the word of God says.
7. We hide God’s Word deep within our hearts.
8. We learn to trust God’s Word.
9. We place our hope in His promises.
10. We obey what God commands us to do.
11. We live according to God’s word.
12. God calls those who minister the word to handle it rightly.
13. We are to preach or teach or share God’s word faithfully.
14. All believers are called to share the message of God’s word.
[Acts 17:11; Matt.13:23; Ps. 56:10; Ps.119:47; Ps.119:16; 1Thes.2:13; Ps.110:11; Ps. 119:42; Ps.130:5; Ps.119:10,17; Ps.119:9; 2Tim.3:15; 2Tim.4:2; Acts 8:4]
Saturday, November 8, 2008
God's Word Is Power
Hebrews 1:3c
KJV: “…upholding all things by the word of his power…”
NCV: “He holds everything together with his powerful word.
The Power of the Word of God.
The word of God is eternally fixed in heaven. It is a dynamic and powerful and it accomplishes great things. The word of God is the creative word. According to the creation account, things came into being when God spoke his word [Genesis 1:3-4, 6-7,9]. David wrote, “By the word of the Lord were the heavens made” [Psalm 33:6].
The writer of the Hebrews, “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God” [Heb. 11:3a]. John wrote, “All things were made by Him” [John 1:3a]. According to John, the Word that God used to create all things was Jesus Christ [John 1:1-3].
It takes faith to understand that God created the world out of nothing. It takes faith to be divinely inspired when we read of God’s creation in the book of Genesis. The first chapter of Genesis tells us that God had spoken His word and the world was created. Hebrew 11:6 tells us that “Without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” We must believe God is out there. We don’t see God with our eyes, but we can see His creations in many things. That is enough to believe God and put our faith in Him and His Word.
Prayer from Revelation 4:11:
KJV: Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. NCV: “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, because You made all things. Everything existed and was made, because you wanted it.” [In Jesus’ name, amen!]
Song: Thou Art Worthy
Thou art worthy, Thou art worthy, Thou art Worthy, O Lord,
To receive glory, glory and honor, Glory and honor and power.
For Thou hast created, hast all things created: Thou hast created all things. And for Thy pleasure they are created, For Thou art worthy, O Lord. [Lyrics and Music: Pauline M. Mills]
KJV: “…upholding all things by the word of his power…”
NCV: “He holds everything together with his powerful word.
The Power of the Word of God.
The word of God is eternally fixed in heaven. It is a dynamic and powerful and it accomplishes great things. The word of God is the creative word. According to the creation account, things came into being when God spoke his word [Genesis 1:3-4, 6-7,9]. David wrote, “By the word of the Lord were the heavens made” [Psalm 33:6].
The writer of the Hebrews, “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God” [Heb. 11:3a]. John wrote, “All things were made by Him” [John 1:3a]. According to John, the Word that God used to create all things was Jesus Christ [John 1:1-3].
It takes faith to understand that God created the world out of nothing. It takes faith to be divinely inspired when we read of God’s creation in the book of Genesis. The first chapter of Genesis tells us that God had spoken His word and the world was created. Hebrew 11:6 tells us that “Without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” We must believe God is out there. We don’t see God with our eyes, but we can see His creations in many things. That is enough to believe God and put our faith in Him and His Word.
Prayer from Revelation 4:11:
KJV: Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. NCV: “You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, because You made all things. Everything existed and was made, because you wanted it.” [In Jesus’ name, amen!]
Song: Thou Art Worthy
Thou art worthy, Thou art worthy, Thou art Worthy, O Lord,
To receive glory, glory and honor, Glory and honor and power.
For Thou hast created, hast all things created: Thou hast created all things. And for Thy pleasure they are created, For Thou art worthy, O Lord. [Lyrics and Music: Pauline M. Mills]
Friday, November 7, 2008
Thy Word Is Settled
Psalm 119:89 KJV: For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.
God spoke to Adam and Eve; God spoke His word to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Moses.
God spoke to the entire nation of Israel at Mount Sinai when he recited the Ten Commandment; the words that they heard were His words. God also spoke through the prophets. Jesus spoke was the word of God to the people and to the 12 disciples. God spoke to Paul. God speaks to us today.
The word of God is the written record of what the prophets, apostles, and Jesus has spoken the Scriptures. What was written in the Bible was the word of God. The oneness or unity of the Bible is a miracle. It is a library of 66 books, written by over 35 different authors, in a period of approximately 1,500 years. What kind of authors that God had chosen to write His word through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit? They were humans; educated and uneducated, including kings, fishermen, public officials, farmers, teachers, and physicians. For 35 authors, with such varied backgrounds, to write on so many subjects over a period of about 1,500 years in absolute harmony, was a mathematical impossibility. It started with Moses [who wrote 5 books] in the year of 1400 BC until John [who wrote 5 books] ending in 97 AD. It could not happen! Then how do we account for the Bible? The only explanation is: “Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” [2 Peter 1:21b]. NCV: “…people led by the Holy Spirit spoke the words from God.”
Again, Psalm 119:89 declared that “Thy word is settled in heaven forever.” Do you see why it is important to study His Word? It is a miracle that we have the Bible in our hands. It is a miracle that we have so many translations to help us understand His word better. His Word is Fresh Manna from Heaven. The Bible is Fresh Manna from Heaven. Praise the Lord! NCV says, “Lord, your word is everlasting; it continues forever in heaven.”
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for the marvelous Bible. Thank you for the miracle. Sometimes we don’t realize what we have in our hands, the Bible. I pray that our hearts be more open to Your words, fresh manna to feed our soul day by day. May Your word enrich our spirits, our hearts and minds through Jesus’ name and the blood of Jesus covers us. Amen!
God spoke to Adam and Eve; God spoke His word to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Moses.
God spoke to the entire nation of Israel at Mount Sinai when he recited the Ten Commandment; the words that they heard were His words. God also spoke through the prophets. Jesus spoke was the word of God to the people and to the 12 disciples. God spoke to Paul. God speaks to us today.
The word of God is the written record of what the prophets, apostles, and Jesus has spoken the Scriptures. What was written in the Bible was the word of God. The oneness or unity of the Bible is a miracle. It is a library of 66 books, written by over 35 different authors, in a period of approximately 1,500 years. What kind of authors that God had chosen to write His word through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit? They were humans; educated and uneducated, including kings, fishermen, public officials, farmers, teachers, and physicians. For 35 authors, with such varied backgrounds, to write on so many subjects over a period of about 1,500 years in absolute harmony, was a mathematical impossibility. It started with Moses [who wrote 5 books] in the year of 1400 BC until John [who wrote 5 books] ending in 97 AD. It could not happen! Then how do we account for the Bible? The only explanation is: “Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit” [2 Peter 1:21b]. NCV: “…people led by the Holy Spirit spoke the words from God.”
Again, Psalm 119:89 declared that “Thy word is settled in heaven forever.” Do you see why it is important to study His Word? It is a miracle that we have the Bible in our hands. It is a miracle that we have so many translations to help us understand His word better. His Word is Fresh Manna from Heaven. The Bible is Fresh Manna from Heaven. Praise the Lord! NCV says, “Lord, your word is everlasting; it continues forever in heaven.”
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for the marvelous Bible. Thank you for the miracle. Sometimes we don’t realize what we have in our hands, the Bible. I pray that our hearts be more open to Your words, fresh manna to feed our soul day by day. May Your word enrich our spirits, our hearts and minds through Jesus’ name and the blood of Jesus covers us. Amen!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
I Say Unto You
John 1:1, 18; 10:30 NCV
v1: In the beginning there was the Word. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. v18: No one has ever seen God. But God the only Son is very close to the Father, and he has shown us what God is like. v10:30: “The Father and I are one.”
1 John 5:20 NCV
We also know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding so that we can know the True One and in his Son, Jesus Christ. He is the true God and the eternal life.
I SAY UNTO YOU.
Jesus introduced His sayings with “I say unto you” [Mat.5:18,20,22,32,39; 11:22,24; Mark 9:1; 10:15; Luke 10:12; 12:4; John 5:19; 6:26; 8:34]. Everything that Jesus spoke was the word of God, for He is, after all, God. He had divine authority within Himself to speak the word of God. It is so important to listen to Jesus’ words that “He that heareth my word, and believeth on him (the Father) that sent me (Jesus), hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation” [John 5:24]. Jesus is so closely identified with the word of God that He is actually called “the Word’.
“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us [John 1:14b]. “We write to you about the Word” [1 John 1:1b]. “...his name is the Word of God” [Rev. 19:13b].
What does this mean to me?
I remember in 1974, there was a Harvest Choir who came to Peoria, Illinois at Assembly of God. Karen Crews preached a sermon, “If you want to see Jesus, just come to the altar and bring your Bible; open them and read His Word. He will become real to you.” I have never forgotten this quote and when I want Jesus to become real to me, I’ll study His Word and let His Word become active and alive inside of me. Praise God. I pray for the Deaf everywhere to be able to read His Word through watching the American Sign Language in Jesus’ name, amen.
v1: In the beginning there was the Word. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. v18: No one has ever seen God. But God the only Son is very close to the Father, and he has shown us what God is like. v10:30: “The Father and I are one.”
1 John 5:20 NCV
We also know that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding so that we can know the True One and in his Son, Jesus Christ. He is the true God and the eternal life.
I SAY UNTO YOU.
Jesus introduced His sayings with “I say unto you” [Mat.5:18,20,22,32,39; 11:22,24; Mark 9:1; 10:15; Luke 10:12; 12:4; John 5:19; 6:26; 8:34]. Everything that Jesus spoke was the word of God, for He is, after all, God. He had divine authority within Himself to speak the word of God. It is so important to listen to Jesus’ words that “He that heareth my word, and believeth on him (the Father) that sent me (Jesus), hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation” [John 5:24]. Jesus is so closely identified with the word of God that He is actually called “the Word’.
“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us [John 1:14b]. “We write to you about the Word” [1 John 1:1b]. “...his name is the Word of God” [Rev. 19:13b].
What does this mean to me?
I remember in 1974, there was a Harvest Choir who came to Peoria, Illinois at Assembly of God. Karen Crews preached a sermon, “If you want to see Jesus, just come to the altar and bring your Bible; open them and read His Word. He will become real to you.” I have never forgotten this quote and when I want Jesus to become real to me, I’ll study His Word and let His Word become active and alive inside of me. Praise God. I pray for the Deaf everywhere to be able to read His Word through watching the American Sign Language in Jesus’ name, amen.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Word…Not Return
Isaiah 55:10-11
KJV: “For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return to me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”
NCV: Rain and snow fall from the sky and don’t return without watering the ground. They cause the plants to sprout and grow, making seeds for the farmer and bread for the people. The same thing is true of the words I speak. They will not return to Me empty. They make the things happen that I want to happen, and they succeed in doing what I send them to do.
Isaiah 55:12 NCV:
So you will go out with joy and be led out in peace.
WORD… NOT RETURN UNTO ME VOID.
The power and the influence of God’s word are never canceled or become void or empty. The word VOID means containing nothing; useless; empty or a feeling of emptiness; of no legal force. We have a choice when everyone hears God’s Word. When we hear His Word, we receive spiritual life and enter heaven. Anyone who refused God’s Word, God condemned them to hell.
When God send His Word, something must happen. God gave many prophecies in the Bible and some of them have been fulfilled and yet there are more that will be fulfilled in God’s time. We can count on God to keep His promises. . May the Holy Spirit help us to understand that God’s Word that will not return to Him ‘for nothing.
Song:
Singing His praises
Singing His love
Singing His praises
Come from above
Singing His praises
Glorious divine
Singing His praises
Jesus is mine.
[Dorothy Callies]
KJV: “For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return to me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.”
NCV: Rain and snow fall from the sky and don’t return without watering the ground. They cause the plants to sprout and grow, making seeds for the farmer and bread for the people. The same thing is true of the words I speak. They will not return to Me empty. They make the things happen that I want to happen, and they succeed in doing what I send them to do.
Isaiah 55:12 NCV:
So you will go out with joy and be led out in peace.
WORD… NOT RETURN UNTO ME VOID.
The power and the influence of God’s word are never canceled or become void or empty. The word VOID means containing nothing; useless; empty or a feeling of emptiness; of no legal force. We have a choice when everyone hears God’s Word. When we hear His Word, we receive spiritual life and enter heaven. Anyone who refused God’s Word, God condemned them to hell.
When God send His Word, something must happen. God gave many prophecies in the Bible and some of them have been fulfilled and yet there are more that will be fulfilled in God’s time. We can count on God to keep His promises. . May the Holy Spirit help us to understand that God’s Word that will not return to Him ‘for nothing.
Song:
Singing His praises
Singing His love
Singing His praises
Come from above
Singing His praises
Glorious divine
Singing His praises
Jesus is mine.
[Dorothy Callies]
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Your Words
Jeremiah 15:16b
KJV: "...thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart..."
NKJV: "Your Word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart."
Jeremiah 15:16 NCV
Your words came to me, and I listened carefully to them. Your words made me very happy, because I am called by Your name, LORD God All-Powerful.
THY WORDS… JOY AND REJOICING OF MINE HEART
Jeremiah was very different from the people in two ways.
First, He loved the word of the Lord; it was a joy and delight to his heart. One sure sign that we are children of God is our intense love for the inspired Word of God. Secondly, Jeremiah was loyal to God and His righteousness and because of that; his people did not like to hear God’s Word of warning to turn away from their sins and idolatry. Jeremiah separated himself from wicked people who continued to do their sinful actions. So Jeremiah became isolated and lonely. Jeremiah could not take part of any festive occasions because God was bringing judgment against Israel.
If you remember the story of King Nebuchadnezzar from Babylon and the armies had captured Jerusalem and the people. Why did this happen? Israelite did not love God’s Word and did not want to obey God’s warning. Then they were taken captive and carried away to Babylon for 70 years. Daniel read Jeremiah’s writing and Daniel prayed for His people to turn to the Lord. They returned home. They heard the Word of God from Ezra who read from the scroll. They repent. They changed their ways. They turned to the Lord and asked God to forgive them for the wicked ways. The people learn to love God’s Word and God blessed the Israel with Temple they rebuild and also Nehemiah helped to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
What does this apply to us?
Let us love the Word of God like Jeremiah loves the Word. It is important to study His Word. His Word influences us. His Word changes us. His Word put joy in our hearts. God put rejoicing in our heart when we read or study His Word. The Lord blessed those who love His Word. Hallelujah!
Prayer:
Dear Lord, help us to love Your Word….Thank You Holy Spirit for bringing the Word of God. Your Word is many things. Thank You for Your great blessings when we read Your Word. Thank you for rejoicing in our heart when we love Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.
KJV: "...thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart..."
NKJV: "Your Word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart."
Jeremiah 15:16 NCV
Your words came to me, and I listened carefully to them. Your words made me very happy, because I am called by Your name, LORD God All-Powerful.
THY WORDS… JOY AND REJOICING OF MINE HEART
Jeremiah was very different from the people in two ways.
First, He loved the word of the Lord; it was a joy and delight to his heart. One sure sign that we are children of God is our intense love for the inspired Word of God. Secondly, Jeremiah was loyal to God and His righteousness and because of that; his people did not like to hear God’s Word of warning to turn away from their sins and idolatry. Jeremiah separated himself from wicked people who continued to do their sinful actions. So Jeremiah became isolated and lonely. Jeremiah could not take part of any festive occasions because God was bringing judgment against Israel.
If you remember the story of King Nebuchadnezzar from Babylon and the armies had captured Jerusalem and the people. Why did this happen? Israelite did not love God’s Word and did not want to obey God’s warning. Then they were taken captive and carried away to Babylon for 70 years. Daniel read Jeremiah’s writing and Daniel prayed for His people to turn to the Lord. They returned home. They heard the Word of God from Ezra who read from the scroll. They repent. They changed their ways. They turned to the Lord and asked God to forgive them for the wicked ways. The people learn to love God’s Word and God blessed the Israel with Temple they rebuild and also Nehemiah helped to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
What does this apply to us?
Let us love the Word of God like Jeremiah loves the Word. It is important to study His Word. His Word influences us. His Word changes us. His Word put joy in our hearts. God put rejoicing in our heart when we read or study His Word. The Lord blessed those who love His Word. Hallelujah!
Prayer:
Dear Lord, help us to love Your Word….Thank You Holy Spirit for bringing the Word of God. Your Word is many things. Thank You for Your great blessings when we read Your Word. Thank you for rejoicing in our heart when we love Your Word. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Write These Things
Jeremiah 36:2
Write… all the words that I have spoken to you.
Dorothy:
The Lord has touched my heart to write the words
that have inspired me, convicted me, changed me
and blessed me. He wants me to share this with you.
Please share this with others who may be blessed
too. It is a very simple Fresh Manna if you allow
Holy Spirit to become real to you and let Him bless
you with His Word. Let Him refresh your soul, your
heart and your mind in the Lord.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
PS. Sometime for other kind of computer or network,
this might work.
http:\\www.dotcallies.blogspot.com\
Write… all the words that I have spoken to you.
Dorothy:
The Lord has touched my heart to write the words
that have inspired me, convicted me, changed me
and blessed me. He wants me to share this with you.
Please share this with others who may be blessed
too. It is a very simple Fresh Manna if you allow
Holy Spirit to become real to you and let Him bless
you with His Word. Let Him refresh your soul, your
heart and your mind in the Lord.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
PS. Sometime for other kind of computer or network,
this might work.
http:\\www.dotcallies.blogspot.com\
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