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September 2016
Aerykah wrote: "Happy September, Y'all!! :DA new month has arrived so here's a new discussion thread for September Devotionals.
Only a couple of people are actually scheduled to do devotions so there are several..."
Thank you! Do you want me to move today's devotion over here?
Mod
You're welcome. You don't have to, but you can if you want to. :)
Sorry I didn't do last Friday's devotion, there has been so many things going on here (mom being sick, and looking for a new house) that I didn't have time and I also forgot.
So it might be that I can't handle a devotional anymore, at least not on Friday as it is the busyest day for me now :-/
So it might be that I can't handle a devotional anymore, at least not on Friday as it is the busyest day for me now :-/
That's okay, Felicity. Do you have another day that would work better for you?
Karis wrote: "That's okay, Felicity. Do you have another day that would work better for you?"
I don't know right now. I'll let you know when things are sorted out :-)
I don't know right now. I'll let you know when things are sorted out :-)
Okay :) Thanks for letting me knew in advance. Sorry about your mother being ill. I'll keep her (and you) in my prayers.
Karis wrote: "Okay :) Thanks for letting me knew in advance. Sorry about your mother being ill. I'll keep her (and you) in my prayers."
Thanks Karis :-)
Thanks Karis :-)
No problem :)
Mod
So it might be that I ..."
That's totally understandable. I've re-marked Friday as a "free day". If you ever decide that you'd like to post a devotional, don't hesitate to just pick one of the free days & post it. :)
Prayers for your mom & that the house hunt will go well!
Abounding Love That Overcomes All Offense ~*~ Thursday's Devotion
**We pray that our love would abound as we set our heart to confront all offense in our heart.
And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ. (Phil. 1:9-10)
**We ask the Spirit to reveal pockets of unperceived offense working in our heart.
Who can understand his errors? Cleanse me from secret faults. Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me. Then I shall be blameless, and I shall be innocent of great transgression. (Ps. 19:12-13)
Our Confession: In Personal Or Corporate Life (In Time And Eternity)
**Our anchor is our confession that “the Lord is good, His mercy endures forever.” The good leadership of Jesus speaks of His perfect love and infallible wisdom. His mercy enduring says that no one is disqualified from the benefits of His leadership if they come to Him.
**This song was sung at strategic times in redemptive history. For example, it was sung at the dedication of the tabernacle of David (I Chr. 16:34, 41), temple of Solomon (II Chr. 5:13; 7:3, 6), and in the war led by Jehoshaphat, which prophetically foreshadows the Armageddon campaign (II Chr. 20:21). The end-time battle comes to a head at the Valley of Jehoshaphat (Joel 3:2, 12), or the Valley of Berachah (II Chr. 20:26, 16), also called the Valley of Decision (Joel 3:14).
And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed those who should sing to the Lord, and who should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army and were saying:
“Praise the Lord,
For His mercy endures forever.”
Now when they began to sing and to praise, the Lord set ambushes against the people of Ammon, Moab, and Mount Seir, who had come against Judah; and they were defeated. (II Chr. 20:21-22)
**Our confession is that Jesus’ loving leadership works all things for good in our life. Jesus overrules the evil that others plan against us (Gen. 50:20), as well as our own bad choices.
And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. (Rom. 8:28)
He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me was love. (Song 2:4)
We declare that Jesus is worthy of our unqualified trust and our sacrificial obedience. (Rev. 5:12)
**Our true view of Jesus’ leadership comes to the surface in context to His redemptive judgments.
And I saw something like a sea of glass mingled with fire, and those who have the victory over the beast, over his image and over his mark and over the number of his name, standing on the sea of glass, having harps of God. They sing the song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying:
“Great and marvelous are Your works,
Lord God Almighty!
Just and true are Your ways,
O King of the saints!
Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name?
For You alone are holy.
For all nations shall come and worship before You,
For Your judgments have been manifested.” (Rev. 15:2-4)
**This confession is our war cry against the Antichrist’s accusation against Jesus’ leadership.
Then he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme His name, His tabernacle, and those who dwell in heaven. It was granted to him to make war with the saints and to overcome them. And authority was given him over every tribe, tongue, and nation. (Rev. 13:6-7)
And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death. (Rev. 12:11)
Hope everyone has a blessed Thursday! ♥
I Hope This Helps Many Of Us ~*~ Saturday's Devotion
Seeing Obstacles Through God's Eyes
Joshua 2
Jericho was the first city that the Israelites needed to conquer in their quest for the land of Canaan. When Joshua sent a pair of spies to check it out, he probably didn't realize that he would receive a glimpse of God's impressive behind-the-scenes activity.
God wants us to look at every obstacle through the lens of His unlimited strength and resources. Anything that appears to block His plans is an opportunity for Him to demonstrate His sovereign power. Just because we don't see anything happening, that doesn't mean He's inactive.
Always remember that God is at work on the other side of our obstacles, arranging the details and bringing His plans to fruition. When the spies returned to Joshua, they reported that the people of Jericho were scared to death. Having heard about the Jews' deliverance from Egypt and the parting of the Red Sea, they were gripped by fear of the Lord.
The stage was set for the conquest, yet by that point, Joshua had done nothing. Sometimes we think we need to be involved in the solution to our problem, but God is not limited with regard to whom or what He can use to accomplish His will. In this case, He worked in the hearts of the enemy by instilling demoralizing fear.
For Christians, great obstacles need not be reasons for discouragement. Although much of the Lord's activity is silent and invisible, we can be sure He is dynamically working out His will for our lives. When the pieces of His plan are in place, He will move us on to victory.
Used with permission from In Touch Ministries, Inc. (c) 2016 All Rights Reserved.
Mod
I Hope This Helps Many Of Us ~*~ Saturday's Devotion
Seeing Obstacles Through God's Eyes"
Thanks for sharing that, Urs. You've no idea how relevant that is to my life right now... :)
I am so glad! Not for your obstacles, of course, but that it was there for you, too. I SO needed it. I think it's fascinating that when I go looking for something, how God just makes something pop out at me! He is SO awesome to us all. :)
Prayers for your strength, understanding, and encouragement as you work through your obstacles. *hugs*
Mod
Thank you so much! *hugs back* We're praying for you & your family too.
Aerykah wrote: "You're absolutely right. He always brings us just what we need when we need it. :)Thank you so much! *hugs back* We're praying for you & your family too."
Thank you! I greatly appreciate your prayers and support. :)
Urs wrote: "
I Hope This Helps Many Of Us ~*~ Saturday's Devotion
Seeing Obstacles Through God's Eyes
Joshua 2
Jericho was the first city that the Israelites needed to conquer in their quest for the land of..."
This encouraged me as well :-) Thanks!
I Hope This Helps Many Of Us ~*~ Saturday's Devotion
Seeing Obstacles Through God's Eyes
Joshua 2
Jericho was the first city that the Israelites needed to conquer in their quest for the land of..."
This encouraged me as well :-) Thanks!
Felicity wrote: "Urs wrote: " I Hope This Helps Many Of Us ~*~ Saturday's Devotion
Seeing Obstacles Through God's Eyes
Joshua 2
Jericho was the first city that the Israelites needed to conquer in their quest for..."
I am SO glad, Sweetie! Blessings to you. :)
We Remember On This Day ~*~ Special Sunday Devotion
Today is a day for remembering. God said for us to be careful about what we harbor and don't let go. He said that we are to forgive and let go. You may think you have forgiven and moved on, but that is not necessarily so. You may choose to forget and because you stop thinking about it, you think you have forgiven. When you don't/won't forgive, you create a barrier between you and the Lord. You also jeopardize your health and inner well-being. We have to remember that God does and makes everything happen for a purpose and reason. If we thwart those plans, we suffer consequences. Our God is an awesome God! If you are harboring ill will and unforgiveness, you must ask God for help, and work on getting it straight and letting it go.
**(Matthew 18:23-34; Genesis 50:20 = Scripture to secure what I wrote above.)
Many lives caved in, in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington, DC, fifteen years ago. So many lives lost, so many touched in some kind of way. I even had a cousin that was supposed to be in a meeting in the twin towers that day, but got a call that he was needed in a different office. There were many stories like that, but there were so many more that were horror ridden, and I hope we have constantly prayed for those people and their families. That they would be comforted, but more importantly that they would forgive. Bless them, Lord! ♥︎
~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~ ~*~
When Your Life Caves In
“And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.” - Mark 13:26
When we come to a place where we don’t understand what’s happening...when everything seems to be caving in, there is Jesus. We always have the forgiveness of the cross, the victory of the empty tomb, and the hope of Christ’s imminent return.
When we go to the doctor and he tells us we have a malignancy. When we hear that we as a couple are infertile and cannot bear a child. When we have to declare bankruptcy. When we are laid off work. When we read a note that our spouse has left. When a loved one dies because of a terrorist act.
We have a Savior...and we have a choice to believe or not to believe! At that time we can begin to murmur, criticize, grumble, or despair. Or we can yield to the Savior and hear Him say, “My child, no matter what is happening, this is how much I love you. Look to the cross. Look to the empty tomb. Look for Me. I’m coming again.”
from Love Worth Finding by Adrian Rogers
Urs wrote: "For Christians, great obstacles need not be reasons for discouragement. Although much of the Lord's activity is silent and invisible, we can be sure He is dynamically working out His will for our lives. When the pieces of His plan are in place, He will move us on to victory."I love that statement! It is reminds me of this verse from Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." That chapter goes on to describe some of the experiences of those dear saints who have gone on before us, who we will see one great and glorious day!
We truly NEED the Lord, and our love and faith in God will be increased as we study His holy word, and seek to obey Him.
May all of us make sure we always have an appointed time to meet with the LORD in His Word and by prayer...and be attentive to the voice of His Holy Spirit throughout the day! And trust that He is working out all the details in our lives, because He is "to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose." (Romans 8:28)
You all are in my prayers!
With the love of Christ,
C. Read
Devotional for Today, 13 September 2016/10 Elul 5776, Tuesday:Interestingly, today is the 23rd Anniversary of when Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin shook hands with PLO chairman Yasser Arafat at the White House after signing the Oslo Accords granting limited Palestinian autonomy. With that in mind, I hope you will prayerfully consider these passages that the Lord has led me to share.
2 Timothy 2:14-26 “Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.
Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are His. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.
If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.
Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.
And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.”
There is so much I could say about that passage, but I want to emphasize that, as Christians, it is of the utmost importance that we read and study God’s word for ourselves, especially in this time of such great deception. It is just as the Lord said:
Matthew 24:4-5 “And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in My name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.”
Paul warned about a time when people will not want to hear the truth--where they are more comfortable hearing things that make them "feel good" in their sin. We are living in that time! And for mature Christians, who have been commissioned by the Lord to serve Him, we would all do well to remember this next passage:
2 Timothy 4:1-5 “I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom;
Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.”
Satan and his evil workers are very active these days, and it is our obligation to stand for the truth and against the lies that are spoken in the name of the Lord. We are living in such a time that we must be very watchful and prayerful, and I hope to encourage God’s people to do just that.
1 Peter 5:1-11 “The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:
Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;
Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.
And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time:
Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
To Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.”
One last passage that I hope you will prayerfully consider:
Ephesians 6:10-20 "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might.
Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
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.
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.
Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;
Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.
And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;
And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,
For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak."
“Real Christians” we need to band together and let this be a place where we will earnestly pray “for the peace of Jerusalem,” and for God’s people everywhere!
With the love of Christ,
C. Read
C. wrote: "Devotional for Today, 13 September 2016/10 Elul 5776, Tuesday:
Interestingly, today is the 23rd Anniversary of when Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin shook hands with PLO chairman Yasser Arafat..."
I love how you put 10 Elul 5776 as well :-) (It's soon 5777!!)
It's great that you did the devotional mostly in Bible passages, it's always the best thing!
Interestingly, today is the 23rd Anniversary of when Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin shook hands with PLO chairman Yasser Arafat..."
I love how you put 10 Elul 5776 as well :-) (It's soon 5777!!)
It's great that you did the devotional mostly in Bible passages, it's always the best thing!
Hi Felicity,Yes, the New Year is coming! I love this time of year! And I absolutely agree, God's Word is the best!
Take care, and I hope you have a very blessed day!
C.
C. wrote: "Devotional for Today, 13 September 2016/10 Elul 5776, Tuesday:Interestingly, today is the 23rd Anniversary of when Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin shook hands with PLO chairman Yasser Arafat..."
This is wonderful! Thank you, so much, for this great devotion! I learned something new today! :D
C. wrote: "Urs wrote: "For Christians, great obstacles need not be reasons for discouragement. Although much of the Lord's activity is silent and invisible, we can be sure He is dynamically working out His wi..."Isn't that awesome?! I love to read/hear anything that comes from Dr. Charles Stanley! Profound! :)
Isn't it a great feeling when you read something and it encourages other Scripture from your heart?! I love how God works through us in EVERYthing! I am glad you felt blessed by this, and thank you for stopping by!
Blessings!
14 September 2016Hi Urs,
Yes, God can work through everything! And I have found that God even uses the enemy at times!
I am reminded of a verse in regard to the invisible things...
2 Corinthians 4:18 "While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal."
Thank you for making me feel welcome! Blessings to you too!
Cathy
C. wrote: "14 September 2016Hi Urs,
Yes, God can work through everything! And I have found that God even uses the enemy at times!
I am reminded of a verse in regard to the invisible things...
2 Corinthi..."
Oh, yes, He uses the enemy! How awesome and amazing is that?! :D
And more Scripture that came to mind regarding invisible things:
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1
For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope, for why does one still hope for what he sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with perseverance. Romans 8:24-25
I am so glad you could feel my invitation to feel welcome! We are in this walk together! :D
14 September 2016Hi Again Urs,
Those are great passages too! I can't wait till all of our "hopes" are fully realized in that glorious place that God has prepared for those of us who love Him and His holy word!
Signing off for today. Hope you and all the other "Real Christians" who visit this site have a very blessed day tomorrow!
With the love of Christ,
C.
P.S. We are living in some very difficult and trying times! Please keep looking to the Lord Jesus! He is true and faithful always!
Encouraging Words Of JESUS ~*~ Thursday's Devotion
Most Often Quoted
One of the greatest, and most often quoted, verses in the Bible is actually a quote from Jesus.
John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that He gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
Jesus Said that He Is
**The Water of Life
John 4:13, 14 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.
**The Good Shepherd
John 10:10, 11 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.
**Eternal Life for His Sheep
John 10:27-30 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand. My Father, which gave them Me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of My Father’s hand. I and My Father are one.
**The Way, The Truth and The Life
John 14:6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.
Jesus Invites All to Follow Him!
**Seek the Kingdom of God First
Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
**Ask, Seek, Find
Matthew 7:7,8 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
**Jesus and the Children
Matthew 19:14 But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto Me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
**Gain the Whole World
Mark 8:34-37 And when He had called the people unto Him with His disciples also, He said unto them, Whosoever will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for My sake and the gospel’s, the same shall save it. For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
**He Calls Sinners
Luke 5:31, 32 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
On What His Followers Should Do
**Be a Light in the World
Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
**Love Your Enemies
Matthew 5:43-44 Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
**Do Unto Others
Matthew 7:12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
**The Greatest Commandment: Love God and Your Neighbour
Matthew 22:37-40 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
**Be a Servant to Others
Mark 10:45 For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
*waves to everyone* I hope this helps encourage us all today and every day! Blessings! ♥
C. wrote: "14 September 2016Hi Again Urs,
Those are great passages too! I can't wait till all of our "hopes" are fully realized in that glorious place that God has prepared for those of us who love Him and..."
Yes, He is faithful and true. For now! For always! :D Thank you, so much! Blessings for a great day for you, too!
15 September 2016Hi Urs,
Even though God's word was written so long ago, it is even more relevant today, for those who have "eyes to see."
Thank you for taking the time to share those wonderful passages!
God bless and keep you--always!
With the love of Christ,
C.
On the Proving Ground ~*~ Saturday's Devotion
“Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my reins and my heart. For Thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in Thy truth.” - Psalm 26:2-3
How do automobile manufacturers make sure their vehicles are safe for people to drive? They put their vehicles onto a proving ground. They’re driven hundreds of miles over rough roads and through water and heat--screeching, turning, twisting, hitting the brakes, accelerating to top speeds. They want to see if that automobile will stand the test.
It is the same with our spiritual lives. God gives the test first and the lesson afterwards. Read throughout Scripture and you will find this to be true. Joseph was tested. David was tested. Moses was tested. Peter was tested.
When God gets ready to prove you, He is not going to test you in the good times because that is not a test. Anybody can serve God in the sunshine.
The test is not how you behave when there is victory all around; the test is how you behave when God brings you to the wilderness. He wants to know what is in your heart. Are you fully devoted to God?
from Love Worth Finding by Adrian Rogers
Urs wrote: " On the Proving Ground ~*~ Saturday's Devotion
“Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my reins and my heart. For Thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in Thy truth.” - Psalm 2..."
As I was reading this tonight I am reminded of this wonderful passage:
Deuteronomy 8:1-3 "All the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers.
And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep His commandments, or no.
And He humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that He might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live."
I have found that Truth is the divider...
Thank you for your devotion Urs!
C.
Devotional for Today 20 September 2016 / 18 Elul 5776-TuesdayWe can learn so much from the prophets of God, and how He responded to His people. As I was reading Ezekiel, I see how much God hates sin. He despises sin so much that it caused God to hide His face from His people and send them into captivity.
Ezekiel 39:23-24 “And the heathen shall know that the house of Israel went into captivity for their iniquity: because they trespassed against Me, therefore hid I My face from them, and gave them into the hand of their enemies: so fell they all by the sword. According to their uncleanness and according to their transgressions have I done unto them, and hid My face from them.”
I also see how merciful the Lord God Almighty is!
Ezekiel 39: 25, 29-- "Therefore thus saith the LORD God; Now will I bring again the captivity of Jacob, and have mercy upon the whole house of Israel, and will be jealous for My holy name;" (vs 29) "Neither will I hide My face any more from them: for I have poured out My Spirit upon the house of Israel, saith the LORD God."
This is such an important time to be very watchful and attentive to the voice of the Lord. Prophecy is coming to pass before our very eyes, and it is an exciting time to be alive, but it can be equally distressing, especially for those who do not know the Lord.
In so many ways, the United States of America has followed in the footsteps of ancient Israel. Jesus Christ is the same Today, yesterday, and forever, and God will use the enemy to correct and admonish His people who have sinned against Him, and tainted His holy name.
Ezekiel 39:7 “So will I make My holy name known in the midst of My people Israel; and I will not let them pollute My holy name any more: and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, the Holy One in Israel. “
We desperately need the Spirit of God working in our lives, and it is my sincere prayer that He will pour out His love, mercy, and grace upon those of us who love Him and are called according to His purpose!
May God's will be done on earth as it is in Heaven! You all at “Real Christians” are in my prayers!
With the love of Christ,
C. Read
HAPPY BLESSED FALL THURSDAY!! ~*~ Thursday's Devotion
We have so much to be thankful for on this amazing first day of God's Fall Time! Fall Time reminds me so much of peace. Are you seeking peace? That ultimate over all peace that only God can give?
Of course I want to share with something from Dr. Charles Stanley. I never fret or worry that you folks will take away, or gather up, anything wrong from what he shares and/or says. I know that he pulls everything from the Word, and always, always proves it. Yes, I adore the man, too, but that is because he lives for God! ♥
Peace, Joy, and Contentment
Nehemiah 2:1-8
Discouragement can rob peace, joy, and contentment. But I have great news if you feel disheartened: You’re not stuck!
I’ve known people who appeared to be in an impossible situation. A few years later, however, they were in a terrific place, either in terms of their circumstances or their emotions. The reason? They never gave up. Instead of sulking in self-pity, they chose to believe God, step out in faith, and climb out of the emotional pit.
Nehemiah is a good example. He had every reason to feel defeated, because his people were in trouble. After receiving news that the city wall had been destroyed, this man of God acknowledged profound disappointment and grieved. Though pain flooded his soul, he didn’t allow himself to stay in that low place. Instead, Nehemiah cried out to God, seeking direction.
Sadness in the presence of royalty was punishable by death. But the Lord answered Nehemiah’s prayer with amazing power, prompting the king to notice his servant’s sad countenance and then to ask what he could do to help. This miracle led to the rebuilding of the wall and the redemption of God’s people.
The Lord can take an impossible situation--no matter what it is--and move in ways mightier than you can imagine.
Do you live in eager expectation of what the Lord will do? Or have you chosen to linger in the depths of despair? Like Nehemiah, turn your disappointment into a petition for God’s help. He can restore your hope and prevent negative emotions from gaining a stranglehold on your life.
Used with permission from In Touch Ministries, Inc. (c) 2016 All Rights Reserved.
Mod
I didn't used to even visit this thread, but now that I've been reading the devotions here... I was missing out before, wasn't I?!
C. wrote: "Urs wrote: " On the Proving Ground ~*~ Saturday's Devotion
“Examine me, O Lord, and prove me; try my reins and my heart. For Thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in Thy truth..."
Well, hey there! Thank you for thanking me for my devotion! :) I know that sounds silly, but I always hope someone gets something from what I post. TRUTH IS the divider, and we must adhere to it!
Hope you are having a super blessed Friday! Forgive me for being so late with getting back to you! :)
C. wrote: "Devotional for Today 20 September 2016 / 18 Elul 5776-TuesdayWe can learn so much from the prophets of God, and how He responded to His people. As I was reading Ezekiel, I see how much God hates ..."
Jesus Christ is the same Today, yesterday, and forever, AMEN! That is a constant that we can always depend on. Thank you for this great encouraging devotion. I'm sorry I am so late getting to this, but it came at just the right time--which is what God planned for me, especially! :)
Aerykah wrote: "Thank you so much for sharing these devotions, ladies!! :)I didn't used to even visit this thread, but now that I've been reading the devotions here... I was missing out before, wasn't I?!"
hehe! Maybe... ;) But nothing like the time God intended for you to see them than His time! ♥
HAPPY BLESSED FRIDAY! :D
C. wrote: "What a beautiful picture!"Isn't that lovely? Just so great with that amazing Scripture! :D
Hope you will have a blessed Fall Time!
The Cross ~*~ Saturday's Devotion
Personally, I'm not a fan of cross jewelry. I don't mean to offend anyone that is, but for myself, I feel like it takes away from it. Since there are crosses everywhere, we have become accustomed to the sight and can easily brush past one without thinking twice. If we see a particularly beautifully ornamented cross, we might pause and admire the intricate carvings or glittering diamonds, but the cross was not a beautiful place where wonderful things happened. Should it really be ornamented? It's a painful, wretched place where we humans did the unthinkable, unforgettable. It's where a son was torn apart from his father. Where an innocent man was wrongly sentenced. It was death. It was sacrifice.
But!
Because of the resurrection, we remember the cross. We remember that we should have been on the cross. That we were on the cross. That the cross is a place where our old selves died.
I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. Galatians 2:20.
And precisely because Christ is in us, through Christ, we can live our new lives free from sin. Granted, it's not that easy. We have to kill our old selves constantly. Paul had to die daily (I affirm, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. I Corinthians 15:31), so I say we probably have to die hourly, at least.
So next time you see a cross, why not take a moment to crucify your old self again? You probably can't do that too much. I know I can't.
Happy Saturday, Y'all. Hope yours is super blessed! ♥
Urs wrote: " The Cross ~*~ Saturday's Devotion
Personally, I'm not a fan of cross jewelry. I don't mean to offend anyone that is, but for myself, I feel like it takes away from it."
Hi Urs,
I am reminded of an excerpt from my testimony when you said: "It's a painful, wretched place where we humans did the unthinkable, unforgettable. It's where a son was torn apart from his father. Where an innocent man was wrongly sentenced. It was death. It was sacrifice."
Thank you for the wonderful reminder, and I will share my thoughts about what God did for us on the cross in my devotion tomorrow--the Lord willing.
Take care! And God bless!
With the love of Christ,
C. Read
C. wrote: "Urs wrote: " The Cross ~*~ Saturday's Devotion
Personally, I'm not a fan of cross jewelry. I don't mean to offend anyone that is, but for myself, I feel like it takes away from it."
Hi Urs,
I a..."
Parts of your testimony? Oh, WOW, C! That is quite interesting! Have you shared that here, yet? Yes, the Lord willing, I will be looking forward to your devotion!
Blessings to you!
*hugs*
Devotional 27 September 2016 / 24 Elul 5776 ~ TuesdayWE NEED THE LORD!
After reading Urs Saturday Devotional on the Cross of Christ, especially as it relates to what God had to go through when His Son was crucified, I am reminded of what I wrote in my book “Walking With the Enemy: A Testimony,” by C. Read.
“In Conclusion…
I would like to address those who have rejected God for whatever the reason. Whether it is based on a misunderstanding because of your own perception or that of another; either way the end result is the same: You need the LORD!
Or you could be someone who was also misled into believing lies in place of the truth; either way, the end result is the same: You need the LORD!
Or maybe you are one who has rejected the church altogether because of an encounter with an improper representative of the LORD Jesus Christ; either way, the end result is the same: You need the LORD!
Regardless of your individual circumstances, if you have never experienced the amazing grace of God, and His incredible forgiveness, the end result is the same: You need the LORD! And I pray that you have come to that same conclusion.
I have made many mistakes during my walk with God; and even now, I still have times I feel so unworthy to be called a servant of the most high God; but that just reminds me of how much I need the LORD!
Let me tell you, if you ever meet up with the one, true, and only living God while on this earth, He can fill the void in your life. He will replace despair with hope, emptiness with purpose and meaning, hatred and bitterness with love and joy, discontentment with satisfaction, along with an abiding peace that nothing or nobody in this world could ever give you, only Him!
All of us have an inner desire to love, and to be loved, and only true love that lasts forever comes from God. He purposefully meant it to be that way, so that if we ever left God out of our lives we would realize that something was missing and hopefully we would go searching for Him. But I am sorry to say that most people are looking in all the wrong places for the love and joy that only the LORD God can give.
As God has allowed me to understand what took place as Jesus lived out His time on this earth, the hardest thing for me to deal with is the pain and anguish that I am sure my Father went through while He stood by and watched as they made a mockery of His dear Son. Can you imagine what it was like? Which of us would even consider giving up our only son with the knowledge that he was going to be ridiculed and laughed at by the entire world, beaten almost to the point of death, and nailed to a cross as a criminal, even though He was perfectly innocent?
But God knew it all! In fact, He planned it all! He knew that Jesus’ sacrifice was the only way to win the ultimate victory over sin and death. That’s what His love is all about. To love someone so much that you are willing to give up everything you are, everything you own, even your very life, so as to prove your love. What a truly awesome God He is!
And you must know that has to be the most heartbreaking of experiences for a Father: to stand by and watch the misuse, the abuse, and the murder of His only Son; unless of course, the same was to have happened to His wife. And I am here to tell you, He has experienced that sorrow as well.
But just as the death of His dear Son was not in vain because almighty God was able to raise Him up again, so too shall He bring back to life His glorious bride that shall rule and reign with Him forever and ever, world without end. Amen!
My LORD and my God has endured great pain, suffering, and sorrow for all of mankind, even to this day; and if you have not yet begun to understand what God has done in giving us His Son, then you don’t know Him very well.
But the most important thing for you to consider right now is whether or not you will be allowed entry into His heavenly kingdom; and it all hinges on what you do while it is still called Today.
Hebrews 3:17–13 Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To-day if ye will hear His voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness: When your fathers tempted Me, proved Me, and saw My works forty years.
Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known My ways. So I sware in My wrath, They shall not enter into My rest.)
Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.
I ask you, who are you going to follow? There are only two choices; there is no middle ground in this battle for your soul. Satan would love for you to continue in his kingdom. But my Father would rather that you joined Him in His.
And He proved it by giving you a way to be reunited back to Him through Christ Jesus, His Son. And you must come through that door! There is no other way to God the Father and His holy city.
God will forgive you for any rejection of Him because of your ignorance of the truth, but if you purposefully reject the voice of God and blasphemy His holy name, you will never be forgiven in this world or in the world to come. Please seriously consider what I am saying. (Please read Matthew 12:31, Mark 3:28-29, and Luke 12:10).
John 3:16–17 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.
One of the greatest pleasures I could ever receive would be if the LORD uses my testimony to show the world that they need to be saved from eternal death and hell, and that lost souls would embrace the truth and turn from their sin, and come to the LORD Jesus Christ, by faith in Him.
I will never forget the wonderful gift that I was given by a young Marine in Yuma, Arizona. Even though I was a complete stranger, he just came up to me, handed me a Bible and said, “Here, I think you need to read this.” And praise God, I did!
Like I have always told my children, the greatest gift I could ever receive from them is if they would truly love, honor, and obey the LORD God almighty with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love their neighbors as themselves; that it would please me immensely. And the same holds true for you!
If you were to willingly give your allegiance to the one, true and only living God, and sincerely worship Him in Spirit and in truth, due to the testimony of Jesus Christ in my life, that would bring such a tremendous joy to my heart; and not to my heart only, but more importantly, to the heart of God!"
You all "Real Christians," and visitors, have a very blessed week!
With the love of Christ,
C. Read
C. wrote: "Devotional 27 September 2016 / 24 Elul 5776 ~ TuesdayWE NEED THE LORD!
After reading Urs Saturday Devotional on the Cross of Christ, especially as it relates to what God had to go through when H..."
Awesome devotion, C. Thank you! I'm glad what I posted prompted you to do this---I don't think I knew you had written a book! :O Now I am more excited! xD I am going to go see if I can find your book over at Amazon. I am excited to read it. Again, thank you for this wonderful, encouraging, uplifting devotion!
Are You Distorted? ~*~ Thursday's Devotion
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. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever. I John 2:15-17
When God made you, He gave you certain impulses—like the impulse of hunger and thirst, the need for rest, the need for achievement, and the need for pleasure and sex.
All these are God-given instincts. And there is nothing dirty or impure about any of those.
For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. Romans 8:13
But the flesh takes these things and distorts, perverts, twists, and misuses them.
Hunger turns to gluttony; sex turns to immorality; the need for recreation turns to debauchery; and the need for rest turns to laziness.
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. Romans 8:7
The flesh, that old nature, takes the things of God and perverts and twists them and tries to get us to fulfill a legitimate desire in an illegitimate way.
How will we avoid the flesh taking over? Look at the verse: “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfill the lust of the flesh.” - Galatians 5:16 When you are submitting moment by moment to the Holy Spirit, the flesh will not be in the driver’s seat.
Blessings to all on this Thursday evening!
Urs wrote: "C. wrote: "Devotional 27 September 2016 / 24 Elul 5776 ~ TuesdayWE NEED THE LORD!
After reading Urs Saturday Devotional on the Cross of Christ, especially as it relates to what God had to go thr..."
I am thankful to know that it was a blessing to you!
Urs wrote: " Are You Distorted? ~*~ Thursday's Devotion
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. For all that is in the world—the lus..."
Amen! This is such an extremely timely and important topic. Thank you Urs!
C. wrote: "Urs wrote: " Are You Distorted? ~*~ Thursday's Devotion
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. For all that is in the w..."
It really is. A lot of us don't like to hear it, but every Word of the Bible is to be obeyed. We all fall and stumble, but to blatantly ignore it... yeah. :/
Thank you! And you're welcome!
A new month has arrived so here's a new discussion thread for September Devotionals.
Only a couple of people are actually scheduled to do devotions so there are several "free" days where anyone can share a devotion if they would like to.
- Sunday: Lee-Lette
- Monday: Andrea
- Tuesday: C. Read
- Wednesday: free
- Thursday: Urs
- Friday: free
- Saturday: Urs
(Please correct me if I'm wrong on this schedule.)
We haven't been having any specific topic so just share what God lays on your heart to share. :) And know that we truly appreciate your willingness to participate.
If anyone would like to volunteer to do devotions for a particular day of the week, please message me, Karis, or Lee-lette & we will help you out in any way we can! :)