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Good day. Today's video Cause and Effect is on the topic of: Contrary winds whether they are physical or spiritual, cause waves of doubt and uncertainty; the effect of these waves is fear and unbelief even unto death. The thief (devil) comes to steal, kill and destroy; our Lord Jesus Christ came that we might have life and life more abundantly. The spiritual winds include doctrine, the cares of this life, the deceitfulness of riches, and lusts of other things that enter into the heart and choke the word of God (Mark 4:18-19) that was sown in your heart at the beginning of your salvation; and the truth of the gospel of Christ that has been preached unto you by HIS apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers which were given for the perfecting of the saints, the work of the ministry, and for the edifying of the body of Christ, until we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: And that we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive (Ephesians 4:11-14). Ephesians 4:15-16 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (KJV) There is “one” gospel (doctrine) of Christ that will keep us on the sure foundation firmly anchored (hope) to the Rock of our salvation, so that when the storms or trials of our faith come, we will not be moved. We will hold fast knowing the truth of the gospel and that God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and of love, and a sound mind (2Timothy 1:7). This is why it is so important that our faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God; and to seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness on a daily basis and allow the Holy Spirit, which we have been given, to lead and guide us into all truth (John 16:13-15). Because the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance forever (Isaiah 32:17-18). We will remain anchored in the hope of salvation, not focusing on the problems or storms of this life that are causing waves of doubt and confusion stirring up fear and unbelief, but keeping our focus on the Lord Jesus Christ our sure foundation that will hold up to the waves, giving us strength and wisdom with which he too rebuked the winds and spoke unto the sea, “peace be still”, and calmed the waves and immediately safety was brought forth. And concerning doctrine, many in the Church are tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine (cause), by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; these winds of doctrine cause waves of doubt and uncertainty in what is truth, and they can lead to fear and unbelief (effect) in one’s walk in the Spirit if they allow it to enter into their heart. Knowing the truth that is in Jesus (Christ – Ephesians 4:20-21) will set you free and keep you free indeed; it will calm the contrary doctrinal winds so you can hear the still small voice of God guiding you into all truth which will put you immediately on a Rock-solid foundation (1Corinthians 10:4, 1Corinthians 1:24, Colossians 1:27) which will keep your heart and mind through Christ Jesus. So, brethren, let us cast all our care unto God and let him do the caring for us, and continue in the faith grounded and settled, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel by contrary winds of doctrine which are not of God, but of men, doctrines of devils that lie in wait to deceive (1Timothy 4:1-6) which will have a negative effect on you and your salvation. Psalm 55:22 Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. (KJV) God bless and keep the faith. Video scripture list in order left to right: Psalms 89:9, Mark 4:35-41, Bible refers to the seas as the masses of people, Revelation 20:13, Matthew 13:47-50, Psalms 107:27-30, Matthew 6:33, Psalms 107:20, Psalms 23:1-3, Amos 8:11-12, Wander = waver, stagger Matthew 7:14, Ephesians 4:5, James 1:2-8, Ephesians 4:11-16, Perfect = mature 1Timothy 6:9-10, Mark 4:19, Choke = to drown Luke 6:46-49, Psalms 127:1, 1Corinthians 2:9-10, Romans 8:9, 1Corinthians 3:11, Acts 4:10-12, Matthew 16:16-18, 1Corinthians 10:4, Isaiah 59:19, Shall lift up a standard = way of escape or deliverance Isaiah 54:11, Isaiah 32:17-18, James 5:16, John 6:16-21, 2Thessalonians 2:1-2, Shaken = move or agitate, which is a motion produced by waves Galatians 1:16 You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry or by clicking on our archive page link above - Doctrine of Christ Ministry Archive. Good day. Today's video It's All Good is on the topic of: Everyone lies; It's all good in Christ when we accept and partake of all things that we have been given access too by and through Jesus Christ. Our Father through his Son has provided everything needed for our salvation. When you were born again you received the measure or fullness of the gift of Christ; nothing was left out, it was a complete anointing of the Holy Spirit given in earnest until our adoption into the family of God is finalized at the judgement seat of Christ. Do know this brethren, that 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 (2 Timothy 3:16-17). As well as that in Christ dwells all the fulness of the Godhead bodily; and you are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power (Colossians 2:9-10). So, beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ (Colossians 2:8). For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end (Hebrews 3:14). So, to all that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ, it's all good. Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, according as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue. God bless and keep the faith. Video scripture list in order left to right: Matthew 11:25-30, Hebrews 2:1, Matthew 18:1-4, 1Peter 5:7, Ephesians 1:3, Mark 10:27, Matthew 6:33, Luke 6:38, Mark 5:28-34, Whole = complete, fulness, soundness, completion Acts 2:1-4, Filled = to supply, furnished, fulfilled Acts 3:1-6, Acts 3:16, Perfect = complete, whole Philippians 2:9-11 (name above every name) Acts 4:10-12 (no other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved) Colossians 1:9-13, 1John 2:20, 1John 2:27, Ephesians 6:10-17, Colossians 2:1-3, Colossians 2:4, Colossians 2:8, Colossians 2:16, Colossians 2:18, Ephesians 3:20, Colossians 4:12, 1Thessalonians 5:21-24, Wholly = complete, complete in all parts, nothing lacking, perfectly sound 1Corinthians 11:28-30, John 10:10, Philippians 4:11-13, Philippians 4:18-19, Colossians 2:8-10, 2Timothy 3:16-17 You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry or by clicking on our archive page link above - Doctrine of Christ Ministry Archive. Good day. Today's video Patient in Tribulation is on the topic of: Patient in tribulation. Our Lord Jesus Christ had his own trials, tribulations, and persecutions while here on this earth, even unto death, yet through all these things he committed himself unto God who is faithful and endured unto eternal life; and he has left us an example on how to persevere and overcome the world as he was tempted in all manner as we are yet he sinned not. How are going to handle the trials, tribulations, and persecutions that come with salvation; all those who live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. Will you rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, and continue instant in prayer so that you are able to respond in the Spirit, to hear the way of escape, or will you try to overcome on your own first, reacting in the flesh by leaning to your own understanding which is flawed and be overcome and the latter end is worse than the beginning? It is the trying of our faith (our trust and confidence in God and his plan of salvation that he planned for us personally from the foundation of the world, delivered unto us by and through Christ Jesus), that works patience (cheerful endurance, constancy, waiting); so, rejoice in the Lord always knowing he has your escape planned from the foundation of the world. Romans 5:1-5 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation (pressure, afflicted, anguish, trouble, persecution) worketh patience; And patience, experience (trustiness, tried character, proof); and experience, hope (expectation, confidence, faith): And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. (KJV) 1 Peter 2:19-25 For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. (KJV) Will you be patient in tribulation and wait for the perfect gift from above, an answer on how to overcome, the way of escape, so that you are able to stand before the Lord Christ having done all to stand, being made the righteousness of God in him through faith? Hebrews 4:16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (KJV) This is where you will find the way of escape. God bless and keep the faith. You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry or by clicking on our archive page link above - Doctrine of Christ Ministry Archive. Good day. Today we are posting Looking Within day four of five, written October 28, 2010. Our prayer is that you will be blessed and encouraged by this five day series of our writings. ***You can download a copy of the writings for personal use only by clicking on the Doctrine of Christ Ministry Archive page link above and scroll down to the year 2010.
Thursday, October 28, 2010 Looking Within Luke 17:20-21 And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation: (21) Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you. (KJV) No, no, no, crunching numbers in your head, trying to find peace by your bank account is not going to bring any real peace people! However, if you accessed the Spiritual treasure that you have available, you will find the peace of God that you were looking for in the first place. Hey let’s stop the insanity Church, because the reality is that looking outwardly for an answer is like a cat in a round barn who can never find a corner to pee in. Galatians 2:20-21 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. (21) I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain. (KJV) You’re going to have to learn to die to old things, old desires, old ways of looking at things if you truly intend on keeping peace with God. A life that was totally dictated and based on outward things now needs to be solely based on the inward if you are truly going to experience a resurrection, where Christ rises and becomes alive and real to you personally. There is a new man within you waiting to take over, but only when you let Him. Hebrews 10:35-39 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. (36) For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. (37) For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. (38) Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. (39) But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. (KJV) You know, the world that we live in today is one of a fast food drive through mentality. Get what you need on the run, and see if someday you can find peace. However, our Lord’s realm is just the opposite, where He says, stop what you are doing, give ear to my Word, and you will find what you were looking for all along. The just, or those that are justified by our Lord, are those that live by faith, what they hear personally from our Lord and not what the majority thinks. However, to stay on that path it takes some discipline and practice, making what you hear from our Lord a way of life and not just some weakly Sunday ritual. Oh and there is no withdrawing or falling back with our Lord, because when He asks us to do something by stepping out in faith, it means He made a way for it to be accomplished as well. 2 John 4:3-5 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (4) Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. (5) They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. (KJV) You know, it’s quite obvious to those that have exercised their Spiritual senses to tell the difference between what is of God and what is based on the world and its fallen interpretations. The only way that you will be able to know for sure is when you realize that the greater influence is within you and not outwardly based on large numbers. Many of what man calls a church is nothing more than a cheap worldly knock off version of what our Lord intended for a church. So today, did you look within realizing that someone greater was knocking on the door of your heart seeking entrance, or were you out and about in a world full of heartache and misery chasing a mirage? Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good morning. Today's video The Son - Part26 Conclusion on the topic of who the Son of God is; the eyes enlightened to Christ. Luke 10:22 All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him. (KJV) Matthew 16:15-17 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. (KJV) Faith in the revelation of the mystery of the gospel is what unlocks our spiritual understanding of Jesus Christ and enables us to see beyond the vail (the man) to see Christ; and it can only be revealed unto us by our Father in heaven. The disciples had faith that this man Jesus was the Messiah whom God promised he would send to deliver his people. And because of their faith, God enlightened the eyes of their understanding that enabled them to see Christ His Son and not just the man Jesus. For many the blindness (or the vail) that is upon their heart is concerning the man Jesus; unable as the Jews were to see the Messiah within him, Christ, God’s Son whom he sent in the likeness of sinful flesh. They began in the Spirit, but have allowed man to dictate the word of God instead of allowing the Holy Spirit to teach, lead and guide them in all truth (the truth that was in Jesus, which is also in you) so that they can know the only true God and Jesus Christ whom He sent. Jesus of Nazareth by Christ in him was able to overcome the world; and through the perfect sacrifice of these two one new man was made, Christ Jesus, who is sitting at the right hand of God forever making intercession for us. So, when your heart burns, you will know that the revelation came from God and not man. It is as though the chaff that was covering the seed is burned off so that you can fully see and understand the scriptures through His eyes, the spiritual understanding of the revelation of the mystery of the gospel, which is Christ (in you as he was in Jesus of Nazareth) our only hope of glory; the Son of the living God. Will you allow God to reveal his mystery in you so that you too can know how he made this same Jesus, who was crucified for you, both Lord and Christ? If you know the Son, you will know the Father also; and you will also be known of Him. John 14:15-21 If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. (KJV) God bless. You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good morning. Today's video The Son - Part24 is on the topic of who the Son of God is; in Christ dwells the fullness. Ephesians 4:7 But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. (KJV) John 1:16 And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for grace. (KJV) In Christ dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily; and we are complete in Him. Through Jesus Christ, the grace of God for mankind, received we this fullness; not of works lest any man should boast; it is a free gift. John 14:16-18 And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. (KJV) John 16:13-15 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you. (KJV) By the faith of Jesus Christ, through the operation of that same faith working in us, we are able to see the fullness of the gift of Christ which we have been given; because without faith it is impossible to please God, and he that comes to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him (Hebrews 11:6). Philemon 1:6 That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. (KJV) Of his fullness we have received the grace of God, his love shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit which was given unto us; and peace with God, as well as his peace which he gave us to keep our hearts and minds in agreement with him, and that our hearts may not be troubled, neither afraid. If God be for us who can be against us; the veil done away in Christ so that we can go boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in the time of need. 1 Peter 1:13-16 Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. (KJV) In Christ is the fullness of the fruit of the Spirit; the character of God our Father; as he said be ye holy as I am holy. We have access to God’s grace and truth which is able to make us free and keep us free, as well as make us wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 1 Peter 1:3-5 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. (KJV) Faith enlightens the eyes of our understanding to joy unspeakable, full of mercy and good fruits, which wisdom is pure, peaceable, gentle, easy to be entreated (persuaded of), given without partiality (1 Corinthians 13:9-13), and is sincere (without hypocrisy, pretense) so that we may know the riches and fullness of the kingdom of God within us, and be known of God, for when his image appears in us we shall be like him and we shall see him as he is, and we shall be seen as his. Romans 5:1-5 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. (KJV) Of God’s fullness have we received; a cup that runs over with the measure or fullness of the gift of Christ; exceedingly abundantly above all that we could ask or think according to the power (Christ) that works in us. Knowing that it is our Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom; all he is asking of you is to lose your life for Christ’s sake and follow in his Son’s footsteps so that of his fullness which he gave in Christ, shall he give unto you; that good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over: his exceeding riches in Christ Jesus his Son, in which all the fullness of the Godhead bodily dwells, and in whom you are complete. This is the will of God; to know him, and Jesus Christ whom he sent, and to be known of Him; for this is eternal life and that life is in his Son, Christ Jesus our Lord, the fullness of him that fills all in all. Jude 1:24-25 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen. You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good morning. Today's video The Son - Part22 is on the topic of who the Son of God is; once saved always saved? Only if you continue in the faith of the Son of God. The encouragement is to not neglect your salvation; don’t take it for granted. Each day we have a choice to continue in the faith remaining grounded and settled, and not moved away from the hope of the gospel, Christ in you the hope of glory. Hebrews 2:1-4 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip. For if the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; God also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will? (KJV) 1 Peter 4:17-19 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear? In Galatians chapter three it talks about those who began in the Spirit only to revert back to the flesh. We are warned throughout the scriptures to watch and pray always; to be sober and vigilant with our salvation because the devil as a roaring lion walks about seeking whom he may devour. And if we don’t keep watching diligently in the Spirit, the thief will find a way in and begin to steal, kill, and possibly destroy your salvation if he is not caught and cast out; all this because we are found sleeping (not watching). As we overcome and kill off those areas in our life that have been a hindrance in our walk and relationship with the Father in Christ, we need to be diligent in not allowing any leaven to enter in and begin to leaven the whole lump all over again. The warning is clear… Galatians 2:18 For if I build again the things which I destroyed, I make myself a transgressor. (KJV) So there are many distractions in this world that seek to lure you back into sin; but it is up to you to stand fast in the faith, by keeping your flesh (old nature) in subjection to the Spirit of Christ within you. We have been given wisdom and power to overcome the world by Jesus Christ, who overcame, himself being tempted in every manner as we are and yet sinned not; having given us an example to follow, as well as having given us a great cloud of witnesses throughout the scriptures, and through our brethren who are following in Christ’s sufferings, overcoming themselves. Today is the day of salvation, now is the accepted time. Today, now faith; choose you this day whom you will serve; the god of this world and the lusts thereof or the God of all creation who gave his Son, Christ Jesus, for an example of overcoming the works of the flesh (Galatians 5:19-21) and how to cultivate and grow in the fruit of the Spirit unto eternal salvation (Galatians 5:22-25). 2 Peter 1:2-11 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (KJV) Once saved, always saved? Let not your faith stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God, Christ in you. Our brother Paul confessed in Galatians 2:20, so should we also. Wherefore dear brethren, we will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though you know them, and be established in the present truth. Don’t let those things which you have heard and have been assured of, knowing from whom you learned them (not of men, but by the Spirit of the living God; leading and guiding you into all truth concerning God our Father and his Son Christ Jesus our Lord) slip by you into sin unto death. God bless. You can view all previous videos by going to our YouTube channel Doctrine of Christ Ministry. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Good morning, today's encouragement is to be content with such things as you have.
If you would like to download a copy click on the Daily Bread For Life Archive link above to access the link to get your downloaded copy. Have a blessed and prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Contentment 1 Timothy 6:6-8 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. (KJV) Contentment in verse 6 means sufficiency. Content in verse 8 means be enough, suffice, or be sufficient. Our sufficiency (ability) is of God. Jesus Christ gave us the ability to become the sons of God; now it is up to us to walk by faith knowing that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. He gave us the ability to overcome the world and its ways just as He did. He gave us the ability to be free from the fear of death; to have that confidence that we are one of His having done the will of God from the heart. This is great gain. So you ask then, what is the will of God? Take some time and read these scriptures (Romans 12:2, 1 Thessalonians 4:3-7, 1 Thessalonians 5:18, 1 Peter 4:1-2, 1 John 2:15-17) knowing that these are just a few that talk about His will; then allow the Holy Spirit to expound on them or add to them, and lead you into all truth of what our Father in heaven is asking of you personally. Knowing this, His will for you is anything that will bring you into a deeper relationship with Him, and that will lead you out of this world and into His eternal kingdom. Hebrews 13:5 Let your conversation (manner of life) be without covetousness; and be content (suffice, enough) with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. (KJV) The eyes of man are never satisfied; the natural man is covetous, it wants not only its own things but also the things of others; it is not satisfied with just food and raiment which is our basic need. If you give it an inch it wants to take a mile; it wants to be first, not last; it wants to be known, not unknown; it wants the approval of man, not of God only; it wants to be admired, not despised; it wants more and more. As Solomon wrote: vanity, vanity, all is vanity. All that is in this life will not satisfy the natural man, which is why we are encouraged to be content with what we have; because as 1 Timothy 6:7 states, we brought nothing into this world with us and it is certain we will carry nothing out. Now think about that, are you satisfied with what you have knowing that all your need (not wants) has been supplied, spiritually and physically by our Father in heaven? And if you don’t have what you need, did you ask? If God knows what we have need of and has provided in advance all that we need, why should we have to ask? Because in this is our Father glorified, through His Son Jesus Christ; and in this we acknowledge that we cannot get through this life on our own and that our Father will know best the need and how to supply it. It keeps us humble to know that our sufficiency is not of ourselves, knowing that without Him we can do nothing. Also remember, that if we don’t get what we ask for right away, examine first if it is a need or a want, is it the best thing for me (I might think it is but does my Father in heaven think so), is it in line with the will of God for my life, will it put me under bondage to this world to have this thing? It might well be that it is not the right time for it to come to pass as yet, because as we know He makes everything beautiful in its time. So seek the Father’s will first and if you believe it is in line with God’s will then continue to hold fast in faith, and remember to always thank our Father that He has supplied the need and for the manifestation thereof, and let patience have its perfect work. Know this also, that our Father in heaven is able to grant you the desires of your heart as long as those desires are not harmful to you spiritually or physically; He is not being mean by withholding, He has a reason, and besides His thoughts and ways are higher than ours; He sees and knows all things before they come to pass. His desire is that you would have life and life more abundantly in and through His Son Christ Jesus. So, is your soul worth selling out to the world for? To follow and seek after the things of man, and not the things of God? Can you be content with food and raiment, and such things as you have? Can you enter into His rest and cease from your own works knowing that God our Father has your best interests at heart? Hebrews 13:6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. (KJV) Having an eye of abundance (the natural man says we don’t have enough), the spirit man renewed in the things of God, will always see that we have enough and more left over, our cup running over. Dearly loved brethren, we have been given an abundant life in Christ Jesus our Lord, all that we need to make it through this life here on earth with strength and wisdom to overcome the world within us and to make our way in patient continuance with contentment in the kingdom and righteousness of God which is great gain in the sight of God our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ. God bless and remain content in Spirit and in truth. Amen. James 1:2-4 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; (3) Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. (4) But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. (KJV)
Have you ever seen a parent chasing a child, especially a toddler that is just learning to walk and wants to explore a bit? Oh, that child just seems to take off in the most dangerous direction, many times thinking something looks more interesting there. We as Christians get like that also, especially in our youth, something looks interesting and we are off and running exploring areas the Lord is not leading us in. Just like with the parent chasing down the child, it is not that they were trying to hold back something from them, no matter how interesting it looked, but rather were asking for them to wait before proceeding in an area they were not familiar with and could end up hurt in. Those that have matured in Christ, which is what letting patience have its perfect work is, have learned it is much easier staying yoked with Him and not getting ahead of Him. A good time to be patient, not that there is a bad time, is during a trial of our faith so that we can hear the Lord’s instruction and continue in His perfect will, lacking nothing, which includes confidence. Hebrews 10:35-37 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. (36) For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. (37) For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. (KJV) Whoa! Stop! You made your request to the Lord now wait for it to manifest. The Lord heard you the first time you made it, now it is a matter of waiting, that patience stuff again. Yet a little while, the answer is coming and it will not be too late or delayed (which is what the word tarry means) as your mind keeps telling you, but rather in due season on time, the Lord’s perfect timing. Oh but what about the deadline, well that’s just what it is, a deadline, one you need to let go of and grab the lifeline instead. Hebrews 10:38-39 Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. (39) But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. (KJV) What are you hearing right now, what is the message of faith the Lord asked you to grab hold of and not let go of? Not what your mind is telling you is going to happen, you know, like the worst case scenario we used to live by; but what is that Word that built you up and gave you the confidence in the first place telling you; is it still the one you will be holding to in the end? Again the Lord is saying, wait for me, don’t take off, quit drawing back to your own understanding but continue in the faith, believing that what the Lord promised He would deliver as well. It is our Father’s good pleasure to give you His kingdom, but how can you receive it if you are not there when it is given, but are off and running looking for an alternate answer? Romans 5:3-5 And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; (4) And patience, experience; and experience, hope: (5) And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. (KJV) Williams New Testament translation of Romans 5:3-5 3. And not only that, but this too: let us continue exulting in our sufferings, for we know that suffering produces endurance, 4. and endurance, tested character, and tested character, hope, 5. and hope never disappoints us; for through the Holy Spirit that has been given us, God's love has flooded our hearts. When trials or tribulations arise for the Word’s sake it is not something we enjoy, but our first response is to look for a quick escape. We need to look before we leap though so that we don’t jump into something worse than what we are dealing with already. The more one can learn patience and let it have its perfect work the more they will be able to identify their way of escape when the answer manifests; as well as knowing it is the Lord’s answer and not some quick short term fix. Rather than looking for someone to blame and putting a physical face to a spiritual issue, the truth will set you free and allow the love of God to continue flowing through your heart like a river of living waters. Romans 15:4-6 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. (5) Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: (6) That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (KJV) The patience and comfort of God is in His word, thus the reason why we need to spend quality time in it on a daily basis in order to be a partaker of it. It’s when we get ahead of the Lord or lose sight of His promises that we get in a hurry and start getting uncomfortable with the outcome He promised us. As long as you stay in agreement with the Lord, being likeminded and of one accord, then you will be speaking with one mouth and not double tongued or talking out of both sides of it. Romans 8:24-25 For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? (25) But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. (KJV) If you rely on things you can see, things that are temporal, then you will not have the patience to wait on the Lord. Our Lord operates in a realm that is not seen. Faith is the substance of our belief which is located in the realm of the Spirit, hidden to the carnal mind but readily revealed to spiritual people. The more you look into the unseen realm, the more you will see your answer and patiently, confidently endure to the end. So today, are you holding more to the word of God and less to the fallen realm, or have you fallen back into the realm of the flesh because you didn’t wait for God’s answer to manifest? Here is something to look into, could you imagine your walk with the Lord if you learned His patience and only spoke His word no matter what the outward circumstances try to dictate? Now that would be worth looking into wouldn’t it? I hope you do. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. Isaiah 40:29-31 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. (30) Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: (31) But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (KJV)
Have you ever gotten in hurry only to end up frustrated by red lights; you know those days where it seems like we hit them all? Christians are like that, they get in a big hurry and then get frustrated and worn out because they get ahead of our Lord and act before hearing all His instructions. When driving, red means stop because it allows other traffic to move to the place they need to be, while you need to wait for the green light to proceed. Of course it goes without saying the perils one can get themselves into if they don’t wait and decide to proceed on red. Besides the trouble you get yourself into by breaking a simple law, it can hurt and affect others as well if you don’t obey simple instructions. The same holds true spiritually; many are used to man’s ways and timing, which seems to get more fast paced daily, and miss God’s way and timing, especially that patience part. There is definitely a big difference between man’s patience and the Lord’s. Knowing the difference can save you a world of hurt and frustration so that you don’t end up so weary and utterly falling short. Psalms 145:14-15 The LORD upholdeth all that fall, and raiseth up all those that be bowed down. (15) The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season. (KJV) Oh but I prayed and the Lord didn’t answer me so I just went ahead anyway. Well no wonder you fell as verse 14 makes reference to, and need to be picked up and dusted off again. Was it so much that the Lord didn’t answer your prayer, or maybe He didn’t answer it the way you thought He should, or in the time you thought was appropriate? Has the Lord failed you or any other of His people before, or was it you that failed to wait until you knew it was time to proceed forward, you know like getting the green light? So if you were the one that took off before the light changed, is it the Lord’s fault you ended up in a wreck and had to speed dial 911? Psalms 123:1-2 Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in the heavens. (2) Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes wait upon the LORD our God, until that he have mercy upon us. (KJV) Think of a waiter, interesting name isn’t it for one that waits on customers in a restaurant? If the waiter is in a hurry and doesn’t get all of the order correct it ends up with a complaint from the customer and sent back to the kitchen to be redone. You know, my life before the Lord was one of always in a hurry, I never had time to do things right the first time; so think how frustrating it was when it had to be redone a second time to make up for my lack of patience in doing it right the first time around. Hebrews 6:12-15 That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. (13) For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, (14) Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee. (15) And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. (KJV) It’s not like God has a history of failure, and it’s not like going to a casino where you hope to get a lucky break once in a while, but quite the opposite is true. I can’t think of anyone above God and neither could He, so when He made promises to Abraham as He has with all those that choose to believe Him, He swore it by Himself, guaranteed it in fact. What one needs to make note of though is, verse 12 points out not only hearing the message of faith but then being a doer of it, which sometimes includes patiently waiting on the answer. God’s word is forever settled in heaven and will endure, the question is will you be settled in His promise and endure to the end also so that you can obtain what is promised? Psalms 37:7-9 Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. (8) Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. (9) For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth. (KJV) Oh by the way, did someone tell you this world is fair? If they did let me be the one to tell you it is not. Just like with negligent drivers who run red lights or drive too fast causing injury to others, man’s ways are not fair or just and never will be because they are stuck in a fallen realm and in bondage to their fallen natures. There are times you are going to endure grief, but be reminded that we are only on this earth for a short time and then our Lord is going to return and set things right, and put all those evil doers in their place. That’s why we are reminded that as much as possible we should live peaceably with all men. The wrath of man does not work the righteousness of God, because it causes one to react in the flesh rather than respond in a spiritual manner. Isaiah 25:8-9 He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will wipe away tears from off all faces; and the rebuke of his people shall he take away from off all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken it. (9) And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, and he will save us: this is the LORD; we have waited for him, we will be glad and rejoice in his salvation. (KJV) Red means stop; stop getting angry and in a hurry, but wait until there is a green light to proceed forward. Verse 8 reminds us of what is going to take place shortly for the body of Christ when they inherit this earth. When driving, one sets out for a certain destination and sometimes gets detoured or delayed for certain reasons, sometimes to avoid hazardous conditions. When driving forward in your walk with the Lord it is vital to be patient and endure to the end so that you can make it to the destination God intended for you also. Keep looking forward and forget what is behind, and wait till you see what God has for you. God bless and have a prosperous day in Christ Jesus our Lord. |
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