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Tarfoot · 11-04-23, 21:57

The Invitation into Faith

Faith is a command. Without faith, it is impossible to please God. It is written, “Now the just shall live by faith; but if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him” (Hebrews 10:38, NKJV).

Unbelief is a bottomless pit of fear and discouragement. It begins with fearing what we cannot see. One fear leads to another, then we begin fearing everything present and future. The result is uncontrollable anxiety and despair. This is not a small issue with God. It is a matter of life and death.

Today, if you are tormented by fear, I have a word for you. The opposite of fear is faith, and faith is an invitation to partake of the great goodness of the Lord. I refer you to one of the most encouraging promises in God’s Word. Let it sink deep into your soul.

“Oh, how great is your goodness, which you have laid up for those who fear you, which you have prepared for those who trust in you in the presence of the sons of men! You shall hide them in the secret place of your presence from the plots of man; you shall keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues” (Psalm 31:19-20).

Hold tight to your faith! God has a bold and glorious promise: “Trust me and I will pour out my goodness upon you. I will hide you in my presence and will not allow strife and fear to overwhelm you.”

It is also written, “Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward” (Hebrews 10:35), and “He who comes to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him” (Hebrews 11:6). The rewards of faith are strength, peace and calm in the storm. God rejoices in our faith, and the decision is ours to make. Right now it is within our power to choose to trust him in our present and future trials.

May God help us all hold fast to our faith. Do not give up. We are too close to the end of the race.

“You are my hiding place; you shall preserve me from trouble; you shall surround me with songs of deliverance. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with my eye” (Psalm 32:7-8).

Tarfoot · 14-04-23, 19:21

Giving Thanks Always

“Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:20 NKJV).

We are all pressed down by problems and distress, but Paul has given us the answer when he tells us to “do it unto the Father.” The great preacher John Calvin said that singing and giving thanks always is all feigning and hypocrisy unless we are fully persuaded that God is our Father.

Often we don’t feel like giving thanks, and we can’t sing. Dire circumstances shatter our spirits. There are times the heart cries, “Lord, do you really expect me to sing and make melody when I hurt so badly? I am so burdened down with cares that I can barely lift my head. It’s hard to praise and speak hymns in my heart. There is too much fear, grief and doubt.”

God is not severe with us when we hurt. We are his children, and these words are given us to find solace and relief in such times. We become so focused on our difficulties that we lose more than our song. We drift further and further away from God’s eternal promises. In spite of all we face, our Lord says, “Give thanks always.”

It is easy to become ungrateful for all he has done in the past. We get swallowed up in praying only for ourselves, our needs and our families. We cannot lift up our eyes and see those who are suffering much more than we are. I am convicted when I think about this. I want to face tomorrow determined to sing to the Lord and give thanks each day for all things and in all things. It may be a weak, inaudible song, but there is a divine, supernatural power in doing it.

God has heard your cry, and he is working out the solution even now! Continue giving thanks always and never stop singing love songs to our precious Lord and Savior.

Tarfoot · 16-04-23, 21:18

Sharing in Christ’s Great Goodness

“If you ask anything in my name, I will do it” (John 14:14, NKJV). We show the measure of our Christ by what we ask in his name. We are told to ask large and to expect great things. We show forth the greatness of Christ by the greatness of our requests. We have so little of Christ because we ask so little.

We limit our petitions to material things. It’s true that we are to make our needs known, but to ask only for food and shelter is to diminish our vision of his greatness.

The kingdom of God is “joy and peace in the Holy Ghost!” We serve a triumphant Christ, and we are called to share in the triumph. Do you have joy and peace in the Holy Ghost? Do you go to his throne and ask the Father “in the name of Jesus?”

God wants us to think big and ask big. Asking “in Jesus’ name” is an invitation to share in God’s great goodness laid up for those who believe.

What about the hungry crowd of 5,000 in the New Testament when Jesus asked his disciples what they should do? He said, “Show me your plan to feed them. What can be done to meet this crisis?” Jesus already had a plan, but he was testing their faith. Who could have conceived of feeding that mass of people with five loaves of bread and two fish?

God will not tell us what his plan is. He will not even give us a hint. He insists on our having faith in his promises, his majesty, his past miracles on our behalf. His word to us is “Believe!” Your Lord has a way prepared, and he has the power to fulfill his plan.

Faith is evidence that cannot be seen. There can be no rest for us in our fiery trials until we believe he stands ready to do the unthinkable, the impossible. Our part is to simply trust that he will perform what he has promised.

Tarfoot · 19-04-23, 14:19

The Mighty Hand of God

“Your right hand, O Lord, has become glorious in power; your right hand, O Lord, has dashed the enemy in pieces” (Exodus 15:6, NKJV).

Even though some Christians know they are forgiven and safe, they lack a sense of power against the flesh. They have not come into the knowledge of ‘full deliverance’ from their evil nature. By his blood, he secures us; then by his mighty hand, he breaks the power of sin in us. Sin still dwells in us, but it does not rule!

What an incredibly encouraging word in these days of disillusionment and super-human efforts to be free of sin's power! Yet we are so reluctant to acknowledge the work of God's hand. It goes against our pride, our sense of justice and even our theology to accept the truth that our deliverance from sin's dominion comes from a power other than our own. However, look at our example: Israel went out armed, but all the battles were the Lord's. “…the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands” (1 Samuel 17:47).

The blood secured Israel from divine judgment, but the high hand of God delivered them from the power of the flesh. They had experienced security and rejoiced in it; now they needed power. Power to once and for all do away with the old enemy, and power to arm them against all the new enemies to come. That power is in the Lord's high and mighty hand.

We have been given great and precious promises surpassing those given to Israel. God has promised to deliver us from all evil and seat us in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, free from the dominion of sin.

However, first we must learn to hate sin. No agreements or compromises. Coddle your sin, play with it, let it remain, refuse to demolish it, and one day it will become the most painful thing in your life.

Do not pray about victory over the sins of the flesh until you have cultivated a hatred for them. God will have nothing to do with our excuses and appeasement. Are you enslaved by a secret sin that causes turmoil and anguish both physically and spiritually? Do you hate it with a passion? Do you feel God’s holy wrath against it? Until you do, victory will never come.

Tarfoot · 21-04-23, 23:58

The Path of Surrender

God begins the process of surrender by knocking us off our high horse. This literally happened to Paul. He was going his self-assured way, riding toward Damascus, when a blinding light came from heaven. “He fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?’” (Acts 9:4, NKJV).

Paul knew something was missing in his life. He had a knowledge of God but no firsthand revelation. Now on his knees, he heard these words from heaven: “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads” (Acts 9:5). The words turned Paul’s world upside down. Scripture says, “He, trembling and astonished, said, ‘Lord, what do you want me to do?’” (Acts 9:6). Paul’s conversion was a dramatic work of the Holy Spirit.

Paul was being led by the Holy Spirit into the surrendered life. He had no other ambition, no other driving force than this new life. “Indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ” (Philippians 3:8).

By today’s standards of success, Paul was a total failure. He didn’t construct any buildings. He didn’t have an organization. The methods he used were despised by other leaders. In fact, the message Paul preached offended large numbers of his hearers. At times, he was even stoned for preaching it.

When we stand before God at the judgment, we won’t be judged by our ministries, achievements or number of converts. There will be but one measure of success on that day. Were our hearts fully surrendered to God? Did we lay aside our own will and agenda and take up his? Did we succumb to peer pressure and follow the crowd, or did we seek him alone for direction? Did we run from seminar to seminar looking for purpose in life, or did we find our fulfillment in him?

I have but one ambition, and that is to learn more and more to say only those things the Father gives me. Nothing I say or do of myself is worth anything. I want to be able to claim, “I know my Father is with me because I do only his will.”

Tarfoot · 25-04-23, 20:19

Family Research Council

The hand of the Lord came upon me and brought me out in the Spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley; and it was full of bones. Then He caused me to pass by them all around, and behold, there were very many in the open valley; and indeed they were very dry. And He said to me, "Son of man, can these bones live?" So I answered, "O Lord God, You know." - Ezekiel 37:1-3

It's easy to get distracted by things we want only to realize that the greatest gift we have outside of our salvation through Jesus is the very breath we take. Take a moment to praise the Lord for the breath you take, which we so often take for granted.

In today's Stand on the Word bible reading, we read the most familiar verses of Ezekiel, which can be found in chapter 37, verses 1-14. This passage gives Ezekiel's vision, in which God revealed that only He could give life to dry bones. We read in verse 8, "I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them, but there was no breath in them." In verse 10, we see why we ought to praise the Lord for the very breath we take. "So I prophesied as He commanded me, and breath came into them, and they lived, and stood upon their feet, an exceedingly great army." Praise the Lord, for it was when God breathed upon these dry bones that they could live again.

Ezekiel's vision reveals God's promise to restore Israel and reminds us that we can do nothing apart from Him. If you have been in a spiritually dry season, I encourage you to ask the Lord to breathe fresh upon you today. If your life is full and everything is great, take a moment, list your blessings, and give thanks to God. I often begin prayer times by taking a deep breath and praising the Lord.

The hymn "Count Your Blessings" opens with this verse and then the refrain:

When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Count your blessings, name them one by one;
Count your blessings, see what God hath done;
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done.

Take another moment to count your blessings and give praise to the Lord. Your day will be changed as you take time to acknowledge and thank Him for what He has done.

Heavenly Father, we praise You for every breath we take. May we never take it for granted. Lord, I ask you to breathe fresh upon anyone who is in a spiritually dry season today. As you raise them, may they run the race before them with a sense of urgency and be about the work you have commanded and commissioned them to do for your glory and honor. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Tarfoot · 27-04-23, 18:28

Here's a great 15 minute video.....

Tarfoot · 01-05-23, 14:31

The Tears of the Righteous

The Bible declares emphatically that not one tear of his children falls to the ground. David wrote, “You number my wanderings; put my tears into your bottle; are they not in your book? When I cry out to you, then my enemies will turn back; this I know, because God is for me” (Psalm 56:8, NKJV). The tears of the godly are so precious to him, he preserves them. If God preserves my tears, will he not preserve me?

It is almost too fantastic to take it all in. What strikes me in such a word is that if he counts every tear of mine, then how precious is my blood to him, my livelihood, my needs? Christ assured his disciples, “Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows” (Luke 12:6-7).

Until we are persuaded in our minds that God takes special notice of each and every affliction which we endure, it is impossible we can ever obtain such confidence so as to believe that he would put our tears into his bottle. Can we believe that truth — that the God who numbers every hair on our heads and bottles every tear — will he not then interpose on our behalf? Hear this word in your spirit: Every tear you have shed over past sins, every tear shed in times of afflictions and stress, every tear shed over lost souls is written in his book.

You may say, “I don’t weep. I seldom shed tears.” I believe in soul tears, which only God sees, inward, silent tears shed often in times of trouble and need. Not one of your tears has been wasted. Not one is in vain.

Even at the end of time, God will attend to our tears once more. “I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people. God himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.’” (Revelation. 21:4). To believe in God is to believe this incredible truth!

Tarfoot · 03-05-23, 19:23

In Luke 11:1, we read that Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples."

In Luke 11:2-4 we find the response of Jesus to his disciple: "So He said to them, "When you pray, say:

Our Father in heaven,
Hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.
Your will be done
On earth as it is in heaven.
Give us day by day our daily bread.
And forgive us our sins,
For we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us.
And do not lead us into temptation,
But deliver us from the evil one."

Then in Luke 11:5-13, we find additional instruction on prayer that helps us see that persistence and expectancy in praying is vital to our prayer life.

"And He said to them, "Which of you shall have a friend, and go to him at midnight and say to him, 'Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has come to me on his journey, and I have nothing to set before him'; and he will answer from within and say, 'Do not trouble me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give to you'? I say to you, though he will not rise and give to him because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will rise and give him as many as he needs. "So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish? Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!"

I encourage you to do as one of the disciples did and ask the Lord to teach you to pray. When you do, He will open doors of instruction for you. The opportunities will be different but each time, He will provide you with instructions on what to pray for and how to pray about it during your prayer times.

As you begin this time of instruction, I encourage you to pray the Lord's Prayer over the next forty-five days asking the Lord to give you a spiritual breakthrough in your life and for our nation. Ask the Lord to put the Lord's Prayer on your heart and mind so that you begin praying it before you even get out of bed.

Another way to grow in your prayer life is by meeting and praying with others. This week I want to make you aware of one opportunity where you can gather and pray.

This week we observe the National Day of Prayer, an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May to invite people to pray for our nation. It was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. You can visit https://www.nationaldayofprayer.org/ to find prayer events near you.

"Jay" Johnston, frc.org

Tarfoot · 04-05-23, 13:55

Day of Prayer Task Force.

Let us pray:

We come with fervent hearts to praise You, Lord. You are the Word, the Way, Truth and Life. You are the Alpha and Omega, Lion of Judah, and Almighty God, who was, and is, and is to come. You clothed Yourself in flesh and dwelt among us, to remove our sin and clothe us in Your righteousness, that we might dwell with You forever and ever.

With broken, humbled hearts we repent of our sins. Confessing to You our faithlessness, prayerlessness, and disobedience. Forgive us for our doubt, our prideful and quarrelsome words that reveal our unclean hearts. Cleanse us and renew a right and steadfast spirit within us, we pray.

With grateful hearts we thank You fervently for the blessings in our life and throughout America; they are more than we are able to count. We will remember Your grace and testify to Your goodness in all generations. Help us to refrain from complaining, but instead be prompted to pray faithfully in every circumstance. Teach us to have a content heart, knowing You are always enough for our every need.

As the church, we commit to pray and love our neighbor and nation as You loved us, that our reputation in this world would be rooted in Your love. Holy Spirit, work and overflow through us in every prayer, thought, word, and deed. May our character, conversations, and conduct reflect the righteousness in which You clothed us and commanded us to live.

With an obedient heart we put on the full armor of God; Your breastplate of righteousness guards our heart from which flows the springs of life. We pray fervently for our communities and country; the people who are in the church, family, education, business and workplace, military, government, arts, entertainment and media. Every person is Your workmanship, fearfully and wonderfully created and loved.

With hopeful hearts we pray that all would choose to receive Your love and follow You. We pray that America would confess, “Jesus is Lord,” and reflect Your righteousness in every sphere of influence and every aspect of our lives. We ask that heavenly hope would flood our hearts, silence hate, and that You will heal our land. Believing You –– all You are, all You said, and all You have promised –– we pray fervently in the righteousness that avails much.

In Jesus’s name we pray, Amen!

Tim Wildmon, President
American Family Association

Tarfoot · 05-05-23, 14:09

The Coming of Jesus

I believe Jesus is coming soon. We see the Lord moving in astonishing ways around the world, and events are rapidly moving toward the day of his return.

“So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near – at the doors! But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but my Father only” (Matthew 24:33,36, NKJV).

Those who know the scriptures have a Holy Ghost inner sense of the Lord’s return. We hear the call of the Holy Spirit dwelling in us, crying, “Even so, Lord Jesus, come.” Jesus said, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns” (Matthew 24:42,44, 46).

Beloved, do you feel or sense that these are the last of the last days? Do you share the longing for his appearance? You are in good company! There are millions of people around the world who are also looking up, waiting with great anticipation for our Lord’s return.

Until then, God wants us to stand out as believers, as messengers of hope in our hopeless world. We do not despair because we know that Jesus Christ’s triumphant return will bring an end to the evil and hopelessness that have poisoned mankind since the serpent spoke to Adam.

When the Lord comes back to earth, he wants to find us hopeful, ready and working hard to spread his message of hope to the world. Even though we don’t know the day or hour, we know he can come at any time. Let us gather the harvest with joy as we await that great day.

What a day that will be! “The dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18). Look up, and be encouraged; our redemption is drawing near. AMEN

Tarfoot · 07-05-23, 15:47

Friedberg Moravian to celebrate 250th Anniversary

Friedberg Moravian Church is celebrating the congregation’s 250th Anniversary in 2023. Special services and activities will be held throughout the year, including a Singstunde April 23, Anniversary Lovefeast May 7, Walk to Adam Spach’s homesite September 23, Praise and Worship Conference October 20-22, a commissioned choral anthem and historical reflections.

Our activities will be guided by scripture, Psalm 100:5 “For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” We are praising God for all the blessings and comfort He has provided for us over the years. We have so much to celebrate! God has surely been the rock of our salvation from generation to generation.

Our history began in August 1754 when Adam and Maria Spach came to what is now the Arcadia Township in Davidson County. While living in Maryland, Adam came to know the Moravians and helped found the Graceham Church. Based on his association with Moravians, he wanted to live near the new settlement in the Wachovia tract. Adam first visited Bethabara in September 1754. He and his family visited frequently, seeking safety in the settlement during the French and Indian War (1754-1763).

Within a few years, Spach and his neighbors had established a new community south of the Ens Creek. They continued to request that Moravians hold worship services there. Finally on November 24, 1759, Ludolph Gottlieb Bachhof held the first public service in Spach’s home.

On May 6, 1766, Brother Peter Frey, Sr. became the first person laid to rest in “God’s Acre”. During 1770, a Moravian Society was organized, Bachhof became the first minister, Sunday services began, and a school was started. The first lovefeast, Easter service and Christmas lovefeast were also held.

In 1771, the name “Friedberg” (Hill of Peace) was approved by the congregation. In 1772, the Society was consecrated as a Moravian Brethren’s Congregation. On April 4, 1773, Friedberg officially became a congregation of the World Wide Unity of the Brethren after action by Synod in Herrnhut. This is our anniversary date.

Friedberg has always been grounded in Biblical Truth. We honor our heritage and deep faith in the Lord Jesus Christ by proclaiming the Gospel openly through worship, witness, Bible study, missions, fellowship, and community service. Though we are certainly thankful for our past, we are most focused on our future. Please join us in celebrating 250 years!

Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Tarfoot · 11-05-23, 14:51

It Was Settled on the Cross

We must once and for all understand what Christ did for us at the cross. He forever took away the sin which separated us from God; from here on, we will always have the right to enter his presence without hesitation. We are accepted in God's sight. There is not a single thing in his heart against us!

Stop and consider the sublime efficacy of Christ's blood. We are fully pardoned because the cross cleared us in God's eyes. We may lose sight of that, but God never does. The veil was torn to allow us to enter directly into God’s presence. He says, “You are accepted! Come boldly to my throne, for you are my beloved.”

Settle this in your heart. If God is satisfied, we should also be satisfied. Is there anything between you and your Father in heaven? You may say, “My heart condemns me! I've said and done things that would grieve the Spirit. I feel unworthy, and the heavens seem closed off to me.” To all this, you can answer, “But God is greater than my thoughts or feelings, and he has accepted me!”

Do you hate your sins? Have you confessed them? Do you believe that “that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins” (Acts 13:38 NKJV)?

Many Christians falter when it comes to accepting forgiveness. They live with unnecessary fear and bondage because they don’t understand the victory of the cross. There is now nothing blocking access to God except our fear and lack of knowledge. When the veil was split, he came out of the holiest of holies to directly commune with you and me.

How incredible! God was so anxious to forgive us that he made himself a sacrifice for our sins. Sin was judged and the offense was removed. Now God can say, “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more” (Hebrews 8:12). He has closed the distance between us!

God does not desire to impute sin against us. Instead, he seeks to reconcile us to himself. He longs for us to live in the blessedness of knowing the sin question was forever settled at the cross.

Tarfoot · 15-05-23, 14:21

Turning Your Anxiety into Healing

Jesus didn’t mess around when he talked about fear. His core message was “I, not your fear, am in control.”

Are fear and anxiety part of our God-given makeup? Oddly, yes. Fear alerts us to danger, and anxiety is our physical response to those alerts. Life from birth to grave is filled with such moments. While on earth Jesus felt the anxiety of those to whom he ministered. His words about fear were designed to not only calm them but also to help them grow in their spiritual walk.

We are all plagued by fear at one time or another. In my younger years, most of my life decisions were in some way tied to my fears. Yes, I wanted to please God, but it was my own expectations and standards for success that I focused on. I was driven by a mighty fear of failure that threatened at times to consume me.

Your fears may be about a relationship, money or illness. You might suffer from depression, or maybe you just carry around a general anxiety about the state of the world. No matter the battle, Jesus invites us to view life through his divine lens. “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33, ESV).

Peace and freedom from fear come only when we disconnect our hearts and minds from the values of the world. This is a conscious, deliberate act. It is interrupting the endless stream of harassing thoughts to say, “Lord, give me your perspective, right here, right now. Help me to let go and see that it is all in your control. I will worship you, not my fears.”

Being attentive to what lies beneath our fears clues us in to what matters to us, and therefore what needs adjusting. “He’s got the whole world in his hands,” says the song. Do you believe it? Or are you mired in needless worry and fear?

It is when we seek the face of God our creator, when we turn our attention fully to him, that we find rest and safety. “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you” (Isaiah 26:3).

Tarfoot · 17-05-23, 14:34

Daniel 9:4-19 (Daniel's Prayer)

"I prayed to the LORD my God and made confession, saying, "O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, we have sinned and done wrong and acted wickedly and rebelled, turning aside from your commandments and rules. We have not listened to your servants, the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land. To you, O Lord belongs righteousness, but to us open shame, as at this day, to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to all Israel, those who are near and those who are far away, in all the lands to which you have driven them, because of the treachery that they have committed against you. To us, O LORD, belongs open shame, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because we have sinned against you. To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him and have not obeyed the voice of the LORD our God by walking in his laws, which he set before us by his servants, the prophets. All Israel has transgressed your law and turned aside, refusing to obey your voice. And the curse and oath that are written in the Law of Moses, the servant of God, have been poured out upon us because we have sinned against him. He has confirmed his words, which he spoke against us and against our rulers who ruled us by bringing upon us a great calamity. For under the whole heaven, there has not been done anything like what has been done against Jerusalem. As it is written in the Law of Moses, all this calamity has come upon us; yet we have not entreated the favor of the LORD our God, turning from our iniquities and gaining insight by your truth. Therefore the LORD has kept ready the calamity and has brought it upon us, for the LORD our God is righteous in all the works that he has done, and we have not obeyed his voice. And now, O Lord our God, who brought your people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and have made a name for yourself, as at this day, we have sinned, we have done wickedly. "O Lord, according to all your righteous acts, let your anger and your wrath turn away from your city Jerusalem, your holy hill because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem, and your people have become a byword among all who are around us. Now therefore, O our God, listen to the prayer of your servant and to his pleas for mercy, and for your own sake, O Lord, make your face to shine upon your sanctuary, which is desolate. O my God, incline your ear and hear. Open your eyes and see our desolations and the city that is called by your name. For we do not present our pleas before you because of our righteousness, but because of your great mercy. O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive. O Lord, pay attention and act. Delay not, for your own sake, O my God, because your city and your people are called by your name."

Tarfoot · 21-05-23, 19:27

Marvelous Grace

What in us attracts the marvelous grace, mercy and pardon of our Savior? Is it beauty, goodness or strength? Is it a unique potential or special gift?

No! It is our great need and utter helplessness that attracts his grace. It is our weakness that attracts his strength. Our helpless condition is exemplified by the man in Mark chapter two: “Then they came to him bringing a paralytic…” (Mark 2:3, NKJV).

Here is a picture of absolute helplessness, a man without an iota of strength or power. Observe this trembling, weak, helpless creature fated to spend the rest of his life imprisoned in his own bed. He is you and me before we knew anything of Christ's power.

Jesus stood before this helpless man and did not even mention his physical condition. The Lord brought him into the Father's presence clean and cleared. “When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven you’” (Mark 2:5). What a beautiful picture of the love of God in Christ Jesus! Here is a helpless man, too overwhelmed by his infirmity to even whimper.

Show me the child of God who struggles against a hated, intractable sin, one who is crushed beneath a load of guilt and despair, who feels helpless and weak; and I will show you the one who is the object of abundant grace. Where sin abounds, grace abounds much more (see Romans 5:20).

When you have repented, stand by faith on the finished work of the cross. Through faith in him, your sins are under the blood. You now live on the other side of the veil, seated with Christ in heavenly places, fully accepted and one with Christ and the Father. You are no longer separated from God by sin. You are more than a conqueror, living and moving in the Spirit. You are the apple of his eye, renewed in your mind and made an heir to all that belongs to Christ the Lord!

Tarfoot · 25-05-23, 03:16

Expressing the Completeness of Christ

Romans 11:17-19 says that we are grafted as wild olive branches into Christ, the holy tree and root. The same Spirit and power that was in him enables and quickens us. We sit like Christ at the right hand of God by faith. How do we know our sins are forgiven? By faith alone. We take God's word for it and are in turn blessed with peace of mind.

So it is with God’s power. We must take his word that his power is now at work in us, causing us to will and to do of his good pleasure. He empowers us to face our weakness with faith that he will help us walk in obedience.

The paralyzed man who stood, walked and carried his bed is a type of the believer who has mastery over sin. What an expression of Christ's power he was! Just think of the hope his faith and healing must have given to all who were helpless and in need.

Isn't this what God is after today? Is he not seeking triumphant believers who will show the world how Christ completely delivers us from the clutches of sin?

Those around us should see believers who live above the lusts and pleasures of this world. Our society desperately needs more men and women who love their spouses and are faithful, parents who nurture and train their children in the ways of the Lord, and young people who practice purity and separation from all that defiles.

We have enough Christian resources. What we do not have enough of are Christians who truly show who Jesus is. There is a shortage of those of whom it can be said, “There goes a Christian who really expresses who Jesus Christ is! There is one who has nothing to promote and nothing to prove but Christ, risen and glorified. There stands a person who shines with the beauty and simplicity of the Lord. There is one who has what I'd like to have, a reality that cannot be denied.”

This should become the one and only goal of our lives: to fulfill God's intention, to be a witness who expresses the fullness and completeness of Christ.

Tarfoot · 26-05-23, 14:51

He Makes Wars to Cease

“He makes wars to cease...” (Psalm 46:9, NKJV). What welcome news this is to the child of God shattered and torn by warfare of the soul. The battle in my soul is his battle, and he alone can end it. My loving Father will not permit the flesh or the devil to bully me into defeat. My war is clearly defined by James, who wrote, “Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members?” (James 4:1). These pleasures include covetousness, pride and envy, enemies of the soul that are common to us all.

Throughout the ages, holy men of God have asked, “Will the lust-war in me ever end while I am alive?” That question sounds familiar, doesn’t it? It is the same question we who love the Lord still ask today.

The war, of course, will end. It will inevitably be followed by the greatest peace ever known. How will it end, though, and who will end it? Sometimes it is our battle and our obligation to enforce godly discipline in our lives. If it is a battle beyond our control, God will end it in his time and way. Until then, he will give us patience and the assurance that he loves us to the end.

The Greek word used by James is stratenomai, which suggests a battle against carnal tendencies, a soldier at war. It is derived from stratia, which means a host, or army encamped. Didn't David speak of hosts encamped against us? Our carnal inclinations come against us as a powerful force determined to undermine and keep us in turmoil in hopes of shipwrecking our faith by attacking our minds with fear and unbelief.

However, if you study the Hebrew word for war used by David in Psalm 46:9, there is cause for great rejoicing. It is milchamah, which means to feed on, consume and devour.

What the Word says to us here is simply marvelous. God is going to stop the enemy from consuming us, from devouring us. He will no longer permit lust to feed on us or overcome us. Be encouraged! God will cause our inner war to cease. This is his battle, and he never loses. Amen

Tarfoot · 28-05-23, 19:33

Discouragement

When we are hurt, lonely, afraid and overwhelmed, we are often prone to turn aside from our true source of peace and look to human resources. How tragic! We know God is still on the throne, waiting for us to call on him. We know the answer to our needs is to be found alone with God, shut in with him. We will even confess to our spiritual friends, “I know I need to pray. I know God has the answer, and I need to turn to him.”

It is discouragement of the worst kind to give in to fear and despair while ignoring the majesty and faithfulness of a loving Father. God said to Israel, “...I have talked with you from heaven… In every place where I record my name I will come to you, and I will bless you” (Exodus 20:22, 24 NKJV). Sadly, Israel answered, “God has forgotten; he hides his face: he will never see” (Psalm 10:11). “But Zion said, ‘The Lord has forsaken me, and my Lord has forgotten me.’” (Isaiah 49:14).

Are you a discouraged Christian? You are if you ignore the Lord's majestic promises and doubt that he will fulfill them. He means it when he says, “Can a woman forget her nursing child, and not have compassion on the son of her womb? Surely they may forget, yet I will not forget you” (Isaiah 49:15-16).

We will be downcast if we keep carrying unnecessary burdens of guilt, fear, loneliness, anxiety and turmoil simply because we refuse to rest on the Lord's great and precious promises. These words from Romans remind us to rest in him: “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” (Romans 8:28).

David reminds us in the psalms, “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their cry. …The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles” (Psalm 34:15,17).

Let us not become impatient and act according to our feelings. When we get into trouble and cry out to God, all of heaven goes into motion on our behalf. If we could see into the spiritual world to behold the good things he is preparing for us, it would be an incredible sight for our eyes.

Tarfoot · 30-05-23, 23:57

Faith Founded on the Word

God is concerned that we are being shaken in our faith, that we don’t trust him during a crisis. Beloved, our worst sin is our unwillingness to believe he will do what he promised. That offends him more than adultery, fornication, drug or alcohol abuse or any other sin of the flesh. He desires – he requires – trust in him.

His Word says, “The Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials” (2 Peter 2:9 NKJV). “God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear” (1 Corinthians 10:13).

These verses are either the gospel or they are lies. If they are the gospel, it is vital that we stand on them. God wants us to be able to say, “Lord, if I die standing here, trusting you to see me through, then let me die in faith. Live or die, I’m yours.”

Now, I admit that’s radical. Could you go that far to say, “live or die?” Many of Jesus’ followers did. They and countless others through the centuries had that uncompromising faith, many even unto death. They weren’t superhuman or endowed with special gifts. What they did have was the real deal, a faith that subdued every doubt and fear. They stood solid on the promises of God. They said, “Let all the winds and waves of hell come at me. I stand in the shadow of his wings, and that’s all I need.”

God yearns to bring you into that place of trust. He wants you never again to fear but to truly rest in his power and ability. He knows how to deliver you from all snares, trials and temptations. There is peace unlimited in that place. When we fully trust in the Lord, we can say with songwriter Thomas Chisholm,

“Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father,
there is no shadow of turning with thee.
Thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not;
as thou hast been, thou forever wilt be.
Great is thy faithfulness!”

Tarfoot · 01-06-23, 14:03

Looking unto Jesus

“Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2, NKJV).

If you were to ask me what is happening in the world right now, I would answer, “Everything Jesus warned us would happen in the last days!” He foretold that men’s hearts would fail them for fear of what is happening on earth. He warned of earthquakes in various places, nation rising against nation and ethnic group against ethnic group. We have lived to see the beginning of all the end-time prophecies being fulfilled before our very eyes.

What did Jesus tell us to do when we see this? “Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near” (Luke 21:28). Now, this sounds counter-intuitive because it’s a natural human response to be anxious when we see and hear dire news. We read the prediction of earthquakes in the Bible, and here they are in today’s headlines. Rumors of wars and uprisings today echo old prophesies that are now coming to life before our very eyes. We are flooded with foreboding; our adrenaline spikes, and we can feel the anxiety coursing through our veins. Our hearts “fail us for fear.” Will we make it? Will our families survive?

Jesus is adamant. “Look up,” he says. “Stay focused on me.” He continually pulls our thoughts back to him. Psalm 46:2 should be written on our hearts: “Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.” David’s calming words are a reminder that God has brought us this far and he will take us to the finish line.

God’s desire is that we draw close to him and never forget that he has all things under his control. Let your heart be encouraged that he is coming soon. Our redemption is at hand! “Let us hold fast the profession of our hope without wavering; for He who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23).

Tarfoot · 05-06-23, 00:10

Hope in the Coming Storm

David gives us a clear picture of Jesus’ attitude in the face of the coming storm. Peter preached from David’s psalms, which speak prophetically of Christ, saying, “I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is at my right hand, that I may not be shaken” (Acts 2:25, NKJV). The literal meaning here is “I was always in his presence, beholding his face.” David added, “Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope” (Acts 2:26).

Here is the secret: Jesus kept the Father always before his face! He continually sought out secret places to be shut in with his Father. It was only after being in God’s presence that Christ came forth to minister, fully persuaded that his Father was always with him. “He’s right beside me and nothing on this earth can move me.” The Greek word for move here means “agitated, shaken or disturbed.” Jesus was saying, “No evil, trouble or misfortune can cast me down or shake my confidence. My Father is in complete control.”

Beloved, if we’re going to face the coming storm, we must be prepared so nothing disturbs our spirit. The only way to do that is to spend time in the Father’s presence beholding his face. We have to be shut in with him in prayer, practicing his presence, seeking him until we’re thoroughly persuaded that he is at our right hand.

The Lord assures us, “Don’t be moved or agitated by anything you see. Keep your eyes focused on me and you’ll retain your joy.” Peter quoted the psalms and David’s words, saying, “You have made known to me the ways of life; You will make me full of joy in your presence” (Acts 2:28).

He was essentially declaring, “I faced everything that you will face in the closing days of time. I had the same foreboding because I saw the coming storm. I ran into the presence of my Father, and he calmed my spirit by showing me the outcome. In his presence I found all the joy, hope and rest I would ever need to the very end.”

My flesh will rest in hope.

Tarfoot · 06-06-23, 14:43

When our enemies heard that it was known to us and that God had frustrated their plan, we all returned to the wall, each to his work. From that day on, half of my servants worked on construction, and half held the spears, shields, bows, and coats of mail. And the leaders stood behind the whole house of Judah, who were building on the wall. Those who carried burdens were loaded in such a way that each labored on the work with one hand and held his weapon with the other. And each of the builders had his sword strapped at his side while he built. The man who sounded the trumpet was beside me. And I said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, "The work is great and widely spread, and we are separated on the wall, far from one another. In the place where you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us." - Nehemiah 4:15-20

Before these verses, we read in verse 14, "And I looked and arose and said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, "Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes."

In this verse, Nehemiah set the table for his and the Israelites' work of building the wall and defending themselves. Nehemiah motivated them, but that was not enough to finish the job. The Israelites recognized that each had a specific role in building the wall. For the job to be completed, the Israelites had to understand their role and that every assignment was significant, and they had to be in a place to hear the trumpet.

This is also true of our spiritual roles; as followers of Jesus, we function best when we use the gifts and talents given to us by God. We must recognize that each gift is meaningful and all are necessary to accomplish the assignments God has for us. The kingdom work before us can be achieved with greater unity when followers are using their God-given gifts and talents and not functioning out of jealousy or competition with someone else's gifts and talents.

Living out the Great Commandment and the Great Commission should be our focus as followers of Christ. We should take this to heart as followers of Jesus so we can stand together and be about our heavenly Father's business until the trumpet sounds.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gifts, talents, and assignments You have given Your followers. May each follower of Christ be faithful in carrying out their assignment while using the gifts and talents You have given them. Lord Jesus, may Your Kingdom come, and Your will be done here on earth as in Heaven. In Jesus' Name. Amen.

As we seek to advance faith, family, and freedom together, may the Holy Spirit be free to work in your life.

Tarfoot · 07-06-23, 15:18

Tested by Our Falls and Failing

Our failures constantly test us. I do not mean that Christians who fall back into old sins and turn back to the world are being tested. No, those believers face a shipwreck of faith. I am talking about believers who are growing in holiness and are set on following the Lord. Peter gave them a warning: “You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked” (2 Peter 3:17 NKJV).

Some of you may have taken a fall in spite of all the progress you’ve made with the Lord. For example, maybe you’ve had a family disagreement. You may say, “It was a fit of anger. I was provoked by my own family, and I blew up. I can’t understand it. I thought I was becoming a little sweeter, a little more like Jesus, but somebody pushed the wrong button, and I lost it. I’m only human.”

It doesn’t matter that you were provoked or even that you were in the right. The provoking simply proved you need deliverance. Scripture says, “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice” (Ephesians 4:31).

God is going to keep testing you until you say, “I’ve got a spirit in me that’s got to go.” You will see no growth in Christ, no peace at home or on the job, until you can say, “You’re right, Lord. Take it out!”

If you’re being tested in this area or any other area for that matter, you may be thinking, “I feel so unworthy. How much ground have I lost? Does the Lord still love me?”

Friend, if you have truly repented, you haven’t lost any ground whatsoever. God puts his loving arms around you and says, “I allowed that to happen so you would see what is in your heart, but be assured that you’re making progress. You have said you want to walk with me, and I am teaching you. I know what is inside of you and will allow you to be provoked until you are free.”

Are you being tested? If so, pray, “Lord, you have put your finger on some areas in me that need to change. Help me make those changes and encourage me that I’m not going backward. I’m going forward with you!”

Tarfoot · 11-06-23, 22:44

Fine-Tuning Your Mind and Spirit

If there is one word that expresses God’s nature, it’s harmony. From the moment he spread out the heavens and filled the earth with life, every component worked together. We see this symphony all around us, from the stars to the jungles to the hidden caverns deep in the ocean.

It is the same with humans. God designed every part of us to work together in divine synchronicity. Today, even with our advanced knowledge, we have only scratched the surface of the interconnection between mind, body and spirit.

What we know for sure is that good, balanced health is up to us and that we are stronger in some areas than in others. Squeezing in time for physical exercise competes with my need to spend time with God. My phone and computer threaten me with mental overload, and I’m then stressed around my loved ones. Where do we find balance?

First, ask God to show you the areas in your life that need nourishment. Sometimes we even need to ask for desire and motivation. Ask for wisdom, for resources, for help from others. He is the source, so ask big! Scripture gives us a boost of faith: “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16, ESV).

Second, take it one step at a time. One phone call to encourage someone, ten minutes in prayer or a walk around the block are more beneficial than you think. It’s important to set realistic goals that give us confidence to move forward.

Third, reach out. Galatians 6:2 says, “Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Asking for help honors God and gives others an opportunity to serve. People in leadership often struggle with this, feeling like they should always be the ones to help. It’s important to remember how much Jesus relied on his disciples and modeled relational living.

Don’t underestimate your value. You and I are exquisitely designed and worthy of care. As “instruments of righteousness” (see Romans 6:13), our lives are a song of praise to our creator. “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:23).

Tarfoot · 13-06-23, 16:27

"For the people of Israel and the sons of Levi shall bring the contribution of grain, wine, and oil to the chambers, where the vessels of the sanctuary are, as well as the priests who minister, and the gatekeepers and the singers. We will not neglect the house of our God." - Nehemiah 10:39

We often hear of work deferred on buildings because the owner sees it as someone else's responsibility or does not want to use his or her financial resources to maintain the structure. What could have been a minor repair turns into a significant undertaking with a heftier price tag.

When the Israelites began rebuilding the temple and the city of Jerusalem, they agreed not to neglect the house of God. They also agreed to bring in tithes and offerings throughout the year. In Nehemiah 10:28 and the following verses, we see that they agreed to spend money in ways that brought glory to God. The Bible calls us to be givers, aligning ourselves with God, the ultimate giver.

While church and other ministry buildings exist and house good work, there is a house of God that is greater than any physical building. We read in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body." These two verses should motivate us to read and study the Bible, pray, and spend time in the presence of God. Sadly, we often allow our hearts to instead be divided by the things of this world.

Today, I urge you not to neglect your spiritual body, so you don't fall into spiritual death. In John 10:10, we read, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." God desires the best for your life. May you receive what He has for you today and never neglect it.

Heavenly Father, I thank you for every person reading this word. I pray that they have professed their faith in Jesus, have a hunger to read and study the Bible, and will not neglect their dwelling place. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Tarfoot · 16-06-23, 14:25

God’s Military Outpost in Us

Peter said, “[We] are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time” (1 Peter 1:5, NKJV). I see in this a prophecy that in these last days God is once more going to reveal his keeping power to his people.

Christ prayed to the Father concerning his disciples, saying, “While I was with them in the world, I kept them in your name. Those whom you gave me I have kept; and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the scripture might be fulfilled” (John 17:12). The disciples were sustained by a mighty power outside of themselves. They could not have made it a single day without Christ's keeping power.

What a glorious prayer Christ prayed on our behalf! “I do not pray that you should take them out of the world, but that you should keep them from the evil one” (John 17:15).

In the Greek, the work ‘kept’ is very expressive. As used in 1 Peter 1:5, it means “to establish a military outpost, to guard, hem in, protect with a garrison, to establish a fortress with a full military line, with full military apparatus, to discern the enemy far in advance and protect from danger.” Not only is the Lord a strong tower, but he establishes in us a fully-manned military base. We actually become a powerful outpost with armies of soldiers and weapons ready for combat and with a lookout who sees the oncoming enemy far in advance.

Jesus prayed, “Keep them from the evil...” The Greek word for ‘keep’ means “deliverance from the effect or influence of anything bad, evil, grievous, harmful, lewd, malicious, or wicked” and “deliverance from Satan himself and all that is corrupt or diseased.”

Put it all together, and it seems almost too good to believe. We are God's military outpost, protected by a fully-equipped spiritual army in full battle array, completely informed of every enemy plan and device, wholly defended against Satan and every evil power. We can now understand what the scripture means when it says, “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4).

Tarfoot · 19-06-23, 14:51

Investing in Morals or Hearts?

At the beginning of Acts when Jesus was resurrected and found the disciples, do you remember what they asked him when they saw him? “So when they had come together, they asked him, ‘Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?’ He said to them, ‘It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority’” (Acts 1:6-7, ESV). They wanted a type of Christian nationalism for Israel.

We have to be careful when we start asking God questions like “When will you heal the sick? When will you take my prodigal children and bring them back to the cross? When will you cause churches to be holy and righteous?”

When we ask these questions, are we asking deep down, “When will you come and let the glory of your name be known?” Or are we asking, “Will you at this time restore the nation of America to its former glory?”

If we are invested more in changing the morals of our nation than we are in people’s hearts turning to God, we are living under a theology of man’s glory rather than a theology of the cross. We used to be ‘moral’ in America. In the 1950s, our culture was very ‘moral’, but so many people were still lost. People down in the South almost all went to church. If you were a real estate agent or salesman of some sort, the best place to make contacts and build a better business was in church. So many people back then were no more Christian than they are, or aren’t, today. People desperately needed a theology of the cross that didn’t depend on their hard work to perfect themselves or earn God’s blessing.

This is why Paul wrote, “But we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles” (1 Corinthians 1:23). We should be like him and say, “I don't preach personal glory that comes through prosperity and materialism and God doing what I want for my life. Nor do I preach national glory that says my nation is better than yours. I don't preach anything but the cross of Jesus Christ. Through him and him alone will people be saved and lives transformed!”

Tarfoot · 20-06-23, 17:38

Just Before Victory

If you are suffering, it may be that God is working things out for you in his own way. It is most often the sovereign work of our God unfolding a master plan known only to him. Through all the suffering of God's people, he is at work. Study your Bible, and you will discover these same patterns in the lives of all of God's people. In case after case, when God began to fulfill his promise, the roof seemed to cave in first!

Think of Daniel and the three Hebrew children. They gave themselves to a life of holiness and separation from the world and all its pleasures. Daniel pledged himself to a life of prayer, tears and intercession, but what did that get him and his three friends? Testing just before victory.

You don't go from the prayer closet to some mountaintop victory; you go to the lions' den. You don't go from consecration to a life of ease and blessing only; you go to the fiery furnace. These men were not afraid to face pain and suffering, because they knew it always ended in God having his way.

Think of Elijah. God gave him a glorious promise of a spiritual awakening in the land, an outpouring of abundant rain and a new day of victory for God's people. Look at all the confusion that broke out after the promise was given. Jezebel threatened his life, chasing him into hiding in the mountains. Wicked forces killed the prophets of God, and the land continued in wickedness and drought.

Can you imagine how confused Elijah must have been? “What kind of answered prayer is this? I'm left all on my own. Where is the Lord? Has his promise failed?” All the while God was doing exactly what he said he would do. The confusion would soon pass and the answer would be forthcoming.

Christ left his disciples a promise that could have seen them through all the confusion and pain, but they were too broken up in sorrow to remember. He had told them, “After I am risen, I will go before you into Galilee” (Matthew 26:32, NKJV). In other words, “Don't try to figure it all out. Don't question the time of confusion. It's not your battle. God is at work! When this is all over, I will still be going before you. Your shepherd will still be there.” What an encouraging word!

Tarfoot · 25-06-23, 00:23

Why Do the Righteous Suffer?

Some people read the Book of Job and think that the driving question behind it is “Why does God allow suffering?”

The real issue behind Job, though, is “The righteous suffer, and we sometimes don’t know why.” The Bible openly admits that the righteous will suffer simply because of their acts of faith. “We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother's righteous. Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you” (1 John 3:12-13, ESV). “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12).

As a missionary in the Middle East for many years, I saw believers endure persecution that would be unimaginable in the West, at least for now. A pastor swept off to jail where interrogators break his arms. A girl murdered by her own father for leaving Islam. It can become so easy to murmur in our hearts, “God, why do you allow this?” When we process this question outside of scripture, we will be tempted to bitterness and despair.

The righteous suffer for doing what is right. We deserve glory and get pain instead. It may feel bitterly unfair, and it is. That said, suffering helps to sever us from our umbilical cord to the world. I do not say this to make light of anyone’s suffering. Pain is never easy to address because it’s always complicated and deeply personal. However, it is also a stark reminder that we will only experience the blessings of heaven after death, not in this world.

When we engage with suffering, especially when it’s for doing good, we may easily become overwhelmed. Meditating on scripture is never more important than at these moments. “Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. …Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful” (James 5:7-8,11).

Tarfoot · 26-06-23, 14:56

The Root of Our Perfection

Billy Graham once said, “Anxiety is the natural result when our hopes are centered in anything short of God and his will for us.”

When we believe we're meant to live a perfect life, there is a sense of a mandate to be flawless. It’s good to desire holiness and perfection, but the angst that comes from failure to attain them often generates anxiety, stress and fear that we aren’t right with God. We’re never at peace, and we can’t enjoy the fullness of the presence of God and a hunger satisfied because we think our perfection is up to us. It’s exhausting and unattainable.

All the anxiety in the world won’t make you a better person or a more perfect Christian. Rather than tormenting ourselves with what we lack, we are called to examine our hearts and offer our insufficiency up to him. Hear the words of the apostle Paul: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6, ESV).

The coastal forests stretching from central California to southern Oregon are home to the giant redwoods, some of earth’s oldest, most magnificent trees. These towering beauties are a literal look back through time. When we stand awestruck at the foot of an old-growth redwood tree, it’s hard to believe that it began its climb as a mere seedling. Although tiny and hundreds of years away from become a giant, the small plant is perfect at every stage of growth. Its size and vulnerability belie the greatness in its DNA.

We too, as God’s handiwork, are complete at every phase of growth when we receive our sustenance from him. When Jesus said, “You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48), he was compelling us to take on his perfection. His words and Spirit are the nourishment that pushes us upward. Our struggles to please others and impress God are real, sometimes lifelong battles, but the Lord offers a way out. “My power is made perfect in weakness,” he says (2 Corinthians 12:9). He takes the long view sees our great potential even when we are small and wavering. When we entrust our lives to him, we are complete, perfect at every stage of growth.

Tarfoot · 28-06-23, 18:51

Prayer Post

But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid." And Peter answered him, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, "Lord, save me." Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" - Matthew 14:27-31

This passage is probably familiar to you. You might have heard it as early as Vacation Bible School or Sunday School, or in a read-aloud Bible Storybook. But this is not simply a story for children. Even as adults, it is applicable to our walk with Christ.

Two concepts found in these verses can hinder a person from living courageously for Jesus: doubt and fear. In verse 30, we see that Peter is afraid, and then in verse 31, Jesus rebukes Peter for his doubt. We must recognize that when we give into doubt and fear, we are no longer focused on Jesus. We are allowing a lie to take over when we should and can be living courageously for God. Here are a few verses that remind us of God's faithfulness and should encourage us to live courageously for Him: Isaiah 41:10, Deuteronomy 31:6, Joshua 1:5, Matthew 28:20, and Philippians 4:6.

So many people get caught up in doubt, but Jesus asked Peter, "Why did you doubt?" We have the Word of God, which tells us we don't need to live life as doubters. Make the decision today that when storms come your way, you will have the courage to trust in Jesus. Take a moment to thank the Lord for Hebrews 13:5, which says, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." And may you be ready to say and live out Hebrews 13:6: "So we can confidently say, "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?"

Heavenly Father, we thank and praise that you never leave or forsake us. Forgive us for our doubt and fear. Lord Jesus, today we commit to being Your faithful followers. We will keep our eyes fixed upon You and trust You with our lives. We commit, as followers of Jesus, to live courageously for You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Tarfoot · 01-07-23, 17:44

Nothing but the Cross of Christ

In Galatians, the Apostle Paul wrote, “But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Galatians 6:14, ESV).

The crucifixion and resurrection of our Lord is the unique, incomparably central point for all of mankind and all of history. All of history is split before Jesus and after his work on the cross. It radically changed the whole world. However, it not only changed the world, it also radically changed us. So for how many of you is the ‘before and after Christ’ not just a historical thing but also a personal BC and AD in your life? The realization of the cross and Jesus’ presence changes everything.

The cross is not only the unchanging reminder of God’s eternal intentionality but also his invitation into an eternity with him. Nothing before that invitation is comparable to what comes afterward. Everything that has been ruined and broken by men can be restored at the cross of Jesus Christ, and you would never want to go back.

No one was better equipped to talk about the power of the cross than the Apostle Paul. Very few people had the level of formal training in religious matters and scripture than him. On top of that, very few people had a deeper revelation of the nature of God, salvation and grace; yet Paul also was a man who experienced some of the most incredible manifestations of the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts, visions, healings and visitations. He even talked about being transported in the Spirit to the third heaven.

Despite all that, he declared that his message, ministry, mind, soul, heart, passion, priorities, convictions and preaching would all be fixed on the cross. The world and all of his achievements and accomplishments in it had been crucified to him. It was dead. That’s how much it was worth to him, compared to the cross. The glory of the gospel and his Lord Jesus Christ crucified on the cross and raised from the grave eclipsed every other thing in Paul’s life.

Do we also live and think that way about the cross? Do we truly grasp how beautiful and powerful God’s work there was? Let’s be crucified to the world and everything it offers to give us value. Let’s fully embrace the cross and the glory of Christ!

Tarfoot · 02-07-23, 20:18

The Power of Being Forgiven

Jesus tells us, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears my word and believes in him who sent me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life” (John 5:24, NKJV). Indeed, the scriptures tells us from cover to cover that once the Lord forgives our sins, he wipes them from his memory.

“I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake; and I will not remember your sins” (Isaiah 43:25).

“I have blotted out, like a thick cloud, your transgressions, and like a cloud, your sins. Return to me, for I have redeemed you” (Isaiah 44:22).

“This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord: ‘I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds I will write them,’ then He adds, ‘Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.’” (Hebrews 10:16-17).

Here is abundant good news for every Christian who’s ever sweated, striven or worked to mortify the deeds of his flesh in his own strength. Does this include you? How many promises have you made to God, only to break them? Here is your good news, reported in the book of Micah: “I, the Lord, will subdue all your iniquities.” God has given us image after image in these passages of how he wipes our sins from memory. He blots them out; he remembers them no more; he buries them in the sea; he “subdues” them, meaning he chases them down and captures them.

Isaiah even tells us God takes our trespasses and flips them over his shoulder. “But you have lovingly delivered my soul from the pit of corruption, for you have cast all my sins behind your back” (Isaiah 38:17). This means God will never look at our sins or acknowledge them again.

Now let me ask you, if God forgets our sins, why don’t you and I? Why do we always allow the devil to dig up some muck or mire from our past and wave it in our face, when all our sin is already covered by Christ’s blood? The cleansing, forgiving power of Christ’s blood is all-encompassing. It covers our entire lives!

Tarfoot · 03-07-23, 18:09

Faith and Finance: A Winning Combination

There are few topics more fraught with anxiety than money. Because it is one of the most personal areas of life, even talking about it is socially taboo. If we have been taught poor money skills, we are ashamed and have a hard time seeking help.

Christians often carry additional stress about money. Some have been taught that having wealth is sinful. We all know the parable of the stingy rich man who would not help Lazarus. Here’s another verse most Christian are familiar with: “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God” (Mark 10:25, ESV). Conversely, there are those who preach that prosperity is manifest evidence of God’s favor on our lives.

Fortunately, balance and focus are found in scripture. “Keep your heart with all vigilance,” we are cautioned, “for from it flow the springs of life” (Proverbs 4:23). God is far more interested in our attitude toward money than he is in money itself.

Diligence in knowing our appetites and aligning them with God’s values determines the financial direction our lives will take. In the process, we must be mindful of our vulnerabilities. Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful and desperately sick; who can understand it?” The heart and mind are cunning and can convince us that a poor choice is actually a great one. Anxiety shows up when we realize that we’ve diverged from sound scriptural principles.

Staying focused requires a two-pronged approach. Number one is the practical: Am I spending more than I have? The guide is to live principally, modestly and below our means. Don’t buy things you can’t afford and bury yourself in debt. Decide daily to make good decisions and seek sound advice. When you feel that cautionary nudge of the Spirit, listen to it. God may be steering you away from trouble.

Second, decide to live in contentment. Don’t covet what others have. Resist allowing social media and shopping sites to feed your hunger for more stuff. Surround yourself with like-minded people. Evaluate your spending habits and examine your motives. Ask yourself, “Am I pleasing God? Am I living a life of balance and deliberation?”

Good stewardship requires our full attention. The rewards are peace of mind, confidence, wisdom and a fruitful life that is pleasing to God.

Tarfoot · 07-07-23, 15:53

A Life of Prayer

The Holy Spirit has come to lead us into a life of prayer. “Likewise the Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered” (Romans 8:26, NKJV).

Consider what Paul is saying about the Holy Spirit’s role in our prayer life. We get so confused about prayer, making it seem so complicated. Go into any Christian bookstore, and you’ll find countless books on the subject, replete with detailed formulas on how to pray. These theories end up raising even more questions. For example:

· When does prayer become intercession?

· Is intercession measured by fervency, loudness or the amount of time I spend on my knees?

· I am instructed to pray according to God’s will, but how do I know his will?

· How do I go about praying? Do mental prayers count?

· What exactly do I pray for?

Such confusion can be so overwhelming that it causes many to avoid praying.

Never has there been a time when the prayers of God’s people are needed more than now. We live in a world gone mad. As global events worsen, conspiring to rob people of peace, societies everywhere are looking for a source of comfort. They aren’t finding it in psychotherapy, dead religion or worthy causes.

The Bible has told us, “The world cannot receive [him], because it neither sees him nor knows him; but you know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you” (see John 14:17).

One of our greatest concerns should be that we maintain a prayer life. When we neglect prayer, we grieve the Spirit of God. Yes, it is possible for us to grieve the Holy Spirit. Paul writes as much when he says, “And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption” (Ephesians 4:30). Indeed, the Spirit shares God’s grief over his people’s unbelief and prayerlessness. There are many powerful ways the Holy Spirit plays a role in our prayers.

· The Holy Ghost manifests the presence of Christ in us.

· The Spirit seals God’s promises in our hearts.

· The Comforter speaks hope to us.

· The Spirit releases his rivers of comfort, peace and rest in our souls.

Tarfoot · 11-07-23, 22:47

The New Life

So I tell you this, and insist on it in the Lord, that you must no longer live as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their thinking.
They are darkened in their understanding and separated from the life of God because of the ignorance that is in them due to the hardening of their hearts.
Having lost all sensitivity, they have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed.
That, however, is not the way of life you learned
when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus.
You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires;
to be made new in the attitude of your minds;
and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.
"In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry,
and do not give the devil a foothold.
Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Tarfoot · 19-07-23, 20:30

Taking Up Our Cross

When Jesus said, “Take up your cross and follow me,” he wasn’t speaking about self-flagellation. The cross is the Holy Spirit showing us how to live through the mind of Christ. It is a lifelong process of shedding our need for control and daily giving our will to God.

Say you’re a new Christian and are hit with a serious adversity, a life-threatening illness, tragedy or financial loss. Not only does it hit, but it begins to drag out. “This isn’t fair,” you might say. “I’m a little mad at God for allowing this to overtake my life.” We’re so full of questions and bereft of answers that we want to turn away. God seems insufficient and uninterested in our welfare.

Although we feel faithless, this is the time to stay faithful. These times of holding on to God rather than ourselves are when wisdom and maturity are established deep within us. This is the taking up of the cross of Christ.

Throughout our lives, giving up our own will and submitting to God will include seasons of heartache and soul-searching. There will be pressure from the enemy to pull away and reclaim our self-will. Satan wants nothing more than to separate us from the power of the cross. It is a certainty that we will become discouraged, tired, frustrated and sorely tempted.

Jesus addressed this on two fronts. “He said to all, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.’” (Luke 9:23-24, ESV). First, he said to take up his cross every day. Our life in Christ is renewed every morning and requires the nourishment of prayer and time in the Word. This helps us to be alert to the nudges of the Spirit as well as the subtle attacks of the enemy.

Second, Jesus reminds us that the Christ-life is a kingdom upside down: controlling your own life will cause you to lose it; giving your will over to the mind of Christ will save your soul. The reward is a life rich with wisdom and the gaining of an understanding of God that is only accessed through adversity. Not only that, it provides us with opportunities to lift up fellow men and women who also struggle with letting go.

Tarfoot · 23-07-23, 20:35

The River of Life

The prophet Ezekiel was given an incredible vision. Scripture says the hand of God carried him to a very high mountain, where a man appeared to him “whose appearance was like the appearance of bronze” (Ezekiel 40:3, NKJV).

Of course, the man was none other than Christ himself. He ushered Ezekiel to the door of God’s house where he gave the prophet an amazing vision of the future of God’s people. It revealed what the body of Christ will become as the end-times draw to a close. “He brought me back to the door of the temple; and there was water, flowing from under the threshold of the temple toward the east…” (Ezekiel 47:1).

Images of water in the Bible almost always represent the Spirit of God. This vision clearly reveals a mighty outpouring of the Holy Spirit in the last days. The vision was so overwhelming in scope, Ezekiel couldn’t comprehend it. He couldn’t even comment on its meaning; all he could do was report it. In fact, before the vision was finished, the Lord stopped and asked Ezekiel, “Have you seen this?” God was asking, “Do you grasp the magnitude of what you’re seeing? Do you see what these rising waters speak of? I know this revelation is awesome and mind-boggling to you, but I don’t want you to miss the true meaning. The waters indicate the way all things will end.”

The prophet Isaiah had a glimpse of the same river that appeared in Ezekiel’s vision, yet Isaiah saw even more. According to Isaiah, God’s people in the last days will enjoy great protection against all satanic attack: “There the majestic Lord will be for us, a place of broad rivers and streams, in which no galley with oars will sail, nor majestic ships pass by” (Isaiah 33:21).

Isaiah is speaking here of slave-driven warships. He’s giving us a picture of the enemy, the devil, as he tries to launch an attack on all who swim in the river. God is making it clear to us in these passages that his living waters are off-limits to Satan. As the psalmist testifies, “Let those be put to shame and brought to dishonor who seek after my life; let those be turned back and brought to confusion who plot my hurt. … let the angel of the Lord chase them” (Psalm 35:4-6).

Tarfoot · 27-07-23, 15:21

Love Aligned to the Word

When our love is aligned with God’s Word—when we embrace his love for us and love one another unconditionally—we live without fear. We can live in the here and now and stand before him with boldness on the day of judgment.

When all fear is gone, we are in perfect love. Listen to these words sung by David: “Honor and Majesty are before him; strength and gladness are in his place” (1 Chronicles 16:27, NKJV). The root word for “gladness” in the Old Testament means “jumping for joy” and enjoying the fullness of perfect love.

Right now, the world is drowning in fear. Humankind trembles over global warming, terrorism, war, shaky economies, mass murders, political chaos and widespread addiction to drugs, alcohol and porn. How can we make any impact for Christ if we’re tormented with the same spirit of fear the world has? What kind of hope can we offer — indeed, what kind of gospel do we preach — if it doesn’t change us and deliver us from fear?

God brought in the New Covenant to assure his church of his love and full pardon of sin. With joy, he revealed his delight in us so that we could feel his heart of love and live our days without fear. “The ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with singing, with everlasting joy on their heads. They shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away” (Isaiah 35:10). “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?... Though an army may encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war may rise against me, in this I will be confident” (Psalm 27:1, 3).

It is time for God’s people to put everything in his hands. I urge you to stop trying to think your way out of trouble. Instead, rest in the power of God’s Word. Let the Lord put gladness in you today. Your glad heart will encourage all those who are fearful around you. “The Lord will open to you his good treasure, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season, and to bless all the work of your hand” (Deuteronomy 28:12).

Tarfoot · 29-07-23, 14:02

The Precious Promises of God

Where does corruption and trouble in the world come from? It comes from evil desires in depraved people. Even Christians deal with evil desires that want to pop up in their lives. There’s corruption in the world, but God said, “I’ve sent my Son into the world that you might not only have eternal life but that you will also be saved from the evil in the world” (see John 3:16). How do we take hold of this freedom?

Let’s look at the life of the great Christian man of faith George Muller. He ran orphanages and was led peculiarly to not ask for funds. He just trusted God through prayer and faith to see all the needs supplied. Muller once said, “I can’t make it through the day with all my responsibilities without starting the day with God in his Word. I can’t even pray effectively until I have faith, but faith comes by hearing the Word of God.”

In the Bible, there are commands, historical narrative, poetry, worship songs, but there are also lots of promises that God is making. Every part of the Bible is important, but what are the promises God makes to us, to you specifically, in his Word?

The apostle Peter encouraged the persecuted church by saying, “His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises, so that through them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped from the corruption that is in the world because of sinful desire” (2 Peter 1:3-4, ESV).

By believing God’s promises of salvation, we become partakers in the divine nature. Now, we don’t become gods like some new age religions would claim, but we share in God’s divine nature. How? By trusting God more and more, and having our faith grow. Increasingly, we share in the power and goodness of the Holy Spirit who has come to live inside us. Peter said that we gain that by believing and hanging onto God’s promises.

How about asking God to give you more wisdom and discipline to read the Bible and search for his promises?

Tarfoot · 30-07-23, 22:15

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.
Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies.
For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have?
But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.
In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness. We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us through wordless groans.
And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for God's people in accordance with the will of God.
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters.
And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.

What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?
He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?
Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God who justifies.
Who then is the one who condemns? No one. Christ Jesus who died—more than that, who was raised to life—is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?
As it is written: "For your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered."
No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,
neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. AMEN

Tarfoot · 01-08-23, 15:16

Mustard Seed Faith

And he said, "With what can we compare the kingdom of God, or what parable shall we use for it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when sown on the ground, is the smallest of all the seeds on earth, yet when it is sown, it grows up and becomes larger than all the garden plants and puts out large branches so that the birds of the air can make nests in its shade."
- Mark 4:30-32

The Parable of the Mustard Seed, recorded three times in the Gospels, is one of Jesus' shorter parables. We find it in Matthew and Luke, in addition to being recorded in Mark 4:30-32. In studying, I learned that a mustard plant can grow between 6 and 20 feet high. Yes, one of the tiniest seeds becomes a tree where birds come and perch in its branches. I also learned that mustard trees have eight growth stages: germination, leaf development, stem elongation, inflorescence emergence, flowering, fruit development, ripening, and senescence. I also learned that farmers find it helpful as a cover crop that can help if erosion in their fields is an issue. We also know that the leaves and the seeds can be used for consumption.

Growing a mustard plant or tree requires care and attention. Just so, if we want our faith to grow in Christ, we need to be sure we are giving care and attention to our relationship with Him. Spiritual transformation is a lifelong process of obedience to Jesus. This parable shows us that the kingdom of God starts small and that through the faithfulness of Jesus and His disciples, it is growing and spreading throughout the world. Jesus teaches that the faith of His followers is like the mustard seed. The kingdom of God is established and grows through these humble beginnings. May you be encouraged today to lean more than ever into Jesus and pursue a mustard-seed faith.

Heavenly Father, may our faith be like a mustard seed, and may we grow to be used as your servants to accomplish much for the kingdom of God. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

Tarfoot · 03-08-23, 16:08

The Comforter Has Come

Jesus calls the Holy Spirit “the Comforter.” It is one thing to know the Holy Spirit as our comforter, but we must also know how he comforts us, so we can distinguish what comfort is of flesh and what is from the Spirit.

Consider the person who is overcome with loneliness. He prays for the comfort of the Holy Spirit and expects that comfort to come as a feeling. In fact, he imagines it as a kind of sudden breath from heaven, like a spiritual sedative to his soul.

This feeling of peace may actually come to him, but the next morning it is gone. As a result, he starts to believe the Holy Spirit has refused his request. No, never! The Holy Spirit doesn’t comfort us by manipulating our feelings. His way of comforting is vastly different and is clearly outlined in scripture. No matter what the problem, trial or need, his ministry of comfort is accomplished by bringing truth. “When he, the Spirit of truth, has come, he will guide you into all truth” (John 16:13, NKJV).

The fact is that our comfort springs from what we know, not what we feel. Only truth overrules feelings! The comforting ministry of the Holy Spirit begins with this foundational truth: God is not mad at you; he loves you.

“Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us” (Romans 5:5). The Greek meaning here is even stronger than the translation suggests, saying that the love of God is made to “gush forth” into our hearts by the Holy Spirit.

You may be carrying an unbearable burden caused by fear, shame, sorrow, afflictions, temptations or discouragement. No matter how it happened, comfort is needed. This is the moment when a voice is heard, echoing through every corridor of your soul. It is the voice of the Holy Spirit declaring, “Nothing can separate you from the love of God.”

Once you believe it, this truth quickly becomes a fountain of living water, sweeping away every stumbling block. “But the Helper [Comforter], the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you” (John 14:26).

Tarfoot · 05-08-23, 01:47

On the New Self

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.
Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.
Because of these, the wrath of God is coming.
You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived.
But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.
Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices
and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator.
Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, but Christ is all, and is in all.
Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts.
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. AMEN

Tarfoot · 15-08-23, 19:47

Pray for Boldness in the Name of Jesus

"And when they had prayed, the place in which they were gathered together was shaken, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness." - Acts 4:31

A meeting of religious leaders had gathered in Jerusalem and they were annoyed by the missionary efforts of Peter and John (Acts 4:1-18). You see, Peter and John were out teaching and proclaiming the Gospel, and these leaders were trying to shut them down. They were questioned about what authority they had to do this teaching, and they responded that their authority came from the name of Jesus. When word spread to other believers about the effort to shut them down, they began praying. They did not give in to fear and threats; they started praying for boldness. God answered!

I know of situations where religious leaders and people in authority have attempted to shut down and discourage the work of Christ for reasons they feel are justifiable. Today, we have examples where people are praying and reading scripture on the street and being told to stop, and some have even been arrested with no clear evidence they are breaking the law. We also encounter situations that bring on personal discouragement and fear that keep us from fulfilling what God wants to do in our lives. May we not fall into the traps of despair and judgment but rather call on Jesus. The Lord wants the Gospel to be shared, people to be praying, and ministry to be happening that glorifies Him, so all the world will know that He gave His life for us to have life abundant and eternal. As a follower of Christ, may you pursue what God has called you to do in the name of Jesus despite the hurdles you may need to overcome. Today would be a good day for you to pray and call others to pray.

May you gather with fellow believers to pray for boldness to go and proclaim the gospel. I encourage you to also pray that religious leaders and those in authority would not hinder the work of the gospel.

Heavenly Father, we praise You, Lord, that You give us the authority to go and proclaim the gospel. Lord Jesus, may we call out in Your name as we pray for boldness to daily share the gospel and to live our life in a way that glorifies You. Lord Jesus, I also ask that we, as leaders in churches and communities, not hinder the work of the gospel but that you would position each of us to lead or cheer others who are championing the cause of Christ. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Tarfoot · 17-08-23, 18:46

Living above the Storm Clouds

You and I need a greater understanding of God’s love. After reading 1 John, I realized how very little I know about living in God’s love. “And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love and he who abides in love abides in God and God in him” (1 John 4:16, NKJV).

Many Christians know about God’s love for them only theologically. They have learned the scriptures and have heard them preached, and yet their understanding is limited to a line from a children’s chorus: “Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.”

We believe God loves us, the world and the lost, but it is an abstract faith! Not many Christians can say with authority, “I know Jesus loves me because I understand what his love is. It is the foundation of my daily walk.”

Is your daily walk bereft of belief in God’s love? Do you instead live under a cloud of guilt, fear and condemnation? God did not save you to live in condemnation. Jesus said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears my word and believes in him who sent me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life” (John 5:24). “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit” (Romans 8:1).

Guilt and condemnation are of the devil. One meaning of condemnation is wrath. This means that on the Judgment Day you will be free from God’s wrath. But condemnation also means “the feeling of never measuring up to standards.” And the Word is teaching us that the believer will not be subject to the feeling of never measuring up!

“That Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height – to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God” (Ephesians 3:17-19).

Rooted and grounded means “to have a deep and stable foundation of knowing and understanding God’s love for you.” That knowledge is the foundational truth upon which all other truths must build!

Tarfoot · 22-08-23, 19:46

Earnest Prayer

"So Peter was kept in prison, but earnest prayer for him was made to God by the church." - Acts 12:5

In Acts 12, we see that Peter was obedient and the church was stunned, despite their earnest prayers. In Acts 12:5, we know the church was praying for Peter, and while they were praying, Peter was sleeping. According to Acts 12:7, when an angel struck Peter to wake him up, as he got up, the chains fell off his hands. After he was delivered from prison, he went to the house of Mary, where people had gathered to pray for his deliverance. The scriptures tell us that Peter knocked on the door, and while they recognized his voice, they did not believe it was him.

We can learn from the early church to earnestly pray about a matter before us. We need to gather as the early church did to pray about the issues before us today, like parental rights, life issues, gender ideology issues, family matters, prodigals, troubled marriages, and so much more. We can find humor in what happened as Peter was delivered. The church did not give in as they prayed, but even so, they were stunned by the results. We may find ourselves in similar situations of surprise as we pray and God answers. We read in Acts 12:24, "But the word of God increased and multiplied."

As I was reading and praying over these verses in preparation to share, I had a thought. What if those who read this post would commit to earnest prayer by calling or texting a friend or friends at noon each day to pray about a matter that is on their heart or commit to praying every day at noon for the family and our nation? As I see it, both the family and our nation are under attack, and it's time we earnestly pray. Beloved, I am not talking about a campaign but a time of prayer that becomes a part of your daily life. Please consider the idea, and if you are willing, reach out to a friend, start praying, and see how the Holy Spirit begins working in families and our nation.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the example of praying people in the early church. Lord, would you move on our hearts to constantly pray for families and our nation? Lord, we confess we cannot do this without the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, so deliver us from our lack of earnest prayer, and help us join with a friend or family member to cry out to you to strengthen and restore our families and our nation to bring glory and honor to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Tarfoot · 25-08-23, 19:06

Go Confidently to the Storehouse

Here is how you go to God’s storehouse to get what you need.

1. Come boldly to his throne, and ask large for all the grace and mercy you need to see you through every temptation and trial. The devil has a million ways to make you feel guilty, fearful and confused; and he’ll tell you, “You feel this way because you’ve got junk in your heart!” However, I stopped looking in my heart a long time ago because it’s always blackened and stained, yet it’s as white as snow to my Father because it is covered with the blood of the Lamb. It does not matter how you feel. Simply look to God’s Word for what Jesus has done. He has wiped your slate clean.

2. Remind God that it was his idea for you to come in. You didn’t go the Lord saying, “Father, I want everything you have.” He invited you in saying, “All I have is yours. Come and get it!”

3. Take God at his Word. The Bible says that everything he has for us is obtained by faith. You need only say in faith, “Lord Jesus, flood me with your peace because you have said that it is mine. I claim rest for my soul.” You can’t work this up or praise it down. It comes from being rooted and grounded in a deep understanding of God’s love for you. This comes not in a feeling but rather in the Word that he himself has spoken: “In my house is bread enough to spare!”

4. Take God’s Word and hammer all your fear, guilt and condemnation to pieces. Reject it all; it is not of God. You can say, “Let the devil come at me with his lies. My Father knows it already, and he has forgiven and cleansed me. There is no guilt or condemnation toward me. I am free!”

Dear ones, I believe that if you ask the Spirit right now to help you seize this truth, to become rooted and grounded in it, the coming days will be the greatest you have ever had. You can say, “Lord Jesus, I know I will make mistakes, but nothing can shake me because you have everything I need to be an overcomer.” Come into his storehouse, and claim all that is yours from your loving Father!

Tarfoot · 29-08-23, 16:52

Essential Faith

"But some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, 'Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved.' And after Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and debate with them, Paul and Barnabas and some of the others were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and the elders about this question. So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, describing in detail the conversion of the Gentiles, and brought great joy to all the brothers. When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and the elders, and they declared all that God had done with them. But some believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees rose up and said, 'It is necessary to circumcise them and to order them to keep the law of Moses.'

The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter. And after there had been much debate, Peter stood up and said to them, 'Brothers, you know that in the early days God made a choice among you, that by my mouth the Gentiles should hear the word of the gospel and believe. And God, who knows the heart, bore witness to them, by giving them the Holy Spirit just as he did to us, and he made no distinction between us and them, having cleansed their hearts by faith. Now, therefore, why are you putting God to the test by placing a yoke on the neck of the disciples that neither our fathers nor we have been able to bear? But we believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will.'"
- Acts 15:1-11

A debate arose in the early church about the requirements for salvation. It was believed by some that to be saved, Gentile believers must follow the customs and laws of Moses, including circumcision. This belief threatened the unity of believers.

We see Paul, Barnabas, and other believers leave for Jerusalem to address this issue with the apostles and elders. What transpired was a discussion about essential beliefs. May we all strive to promote unity within the body of Christ as we focus on the gospel's essential message.

Peter stood up among the people to question what they were saying, asking why they would call for a requirement they could not fulfill. He began telling the stories of Gentiles and how the Holy Spirit brought transformation regardless of their background. Peter's words affirm that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ and not works. Christianity does not require any work for salvation, unlike all other religions.

Thankfully, we do not live under the Old Testament law, where people were required to live a certain way and do certain things to be made right with God. As we see what happened in the Garden of Eden, man could not fulfill those requirements. People have put on human requirements for salvation that are not from God. People hear they must clean up their lives before coming to Christ, or they must go to a particular church, or dress a certain way, and if they do not do these actions or others, they cannot receive salvation. You will not find anywhere in the Bible where God has works requirements for a person to receive salvation. The Bible is clear that a person must confess his sins, believe in Jesus, and publicly proclaim that Jesus is Lord. It is trusting in the grace, mercy and atoning work of Jesus that brings salvation, not any work or action of our own doing.

Acts 15 is a beautiful reminder to followers of Jesus that our unity is grounded in our faith in Christ. May you be free from legalism and artificial requirements or expectations, knowing that what matters most is the condition of our hearts and our faith in God.

Heavenly Father, thank You for salvation through Jesus. Lord, let us take this lesson to heart, seeking unity with fellow believers and placing our trust in the grace that flows from the cross of Christ. Lord Jesus, may we live out our spiritual walk with humility, love, and a life-long commitment to the gospel -- that salvation is a gift from God, received through faith, and available to all who believe. Amen

11-04-23, 21:57	#1301
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You The Invitation into Faith Faith is a command. Without faith, it is impossible to please God. It is written, “Now the just shall live by faith; but if anyone draws back, My soul has no pleasure in him” (Hebrews 10:38, NKJV). Unbelief is a bottomless pit of fear and discouragement. It begins with fearing what we cannot see. One fear leads to another, then we begin fearing everything present and future. The result is uncontrollable anxiety and despair. This is not a small issue with God. It is a matter of life and death. Today, if you are tormented by fear, I have a word for you. The opposite of fear is faith, and faith is an invitation to partake of the great goodness of the Lord. I refer you to one of the most encouraging promises in God’s Word. Let it sink deep into your soul. “Oh, how great is your goodness, which you have laid up for those who fear you, which you have prepared for those who trust in you in the presence of the sons of men! You shall hide them in the secret place of your presence from the plots of man; you shall keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues” (Psalm 31:19-20). Hold tight to your faith! God has a bold and glorious promise: “Trust me and I will pour out my goodness upon you. I will hide you in my presence and will not allow strife and fear to overwhelm you.” It is also written, “Therefore do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward” (Hebrews 10:35), and “He who comes to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of those who diligently seek him” (Hebrews 11:6). The rewards of faith are strength, peace and calm in the storm. God rejoices in our faith, and the decision is ours to make. Right now it is within our power to choose to trust him in our present and future trials. May God help us all hold fast to our faith. Do not give up. We are too close to the end of the race. “You are my hiding place; you shall preserve me from trouble; you shall surround me with songs of deliverance. I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with my eye” (Psalm 32:7-8). __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

14-04-23, 19:21	#1302
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Giving Thanks Always “Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:20 NKJV). We are all pressed down by problems and distress, but Paul has given us the answer when he tells us to “do it unto the Father.” The great preacher John Calvin said that singing and giving thanks always is all feigning and hypocrisy unless we are fully persuaded that God is our Father. Often we don’t feel like giving thanks, and we can’t sing. Dire circumstances shatter our spirits. There are times the heart cries, “Lord, do you really expect me to sing and make melody when I hurt so badly? I am so burdened down with cares that I can barely lift my head. It’s hard to praise and speak hymns in my heart. There is too much fear, grief and doubt.” God is not severe with us when we hurt. We are his children, and these words are given us to find solace and relief in such times. We become so focused on our difficulties that we lose more than our song. We drift further and further away from God’s eternal promises. In spite of all we face, our Lord says, “Give thanks always.” It is easy to become ungrateful for all he has done in the past. We get swallowed up in praying only for ourselves, our needs and our families. We cannot lift up our eyes and see those who are suffering much more than we are. I am convicted when I think about this. I want to face tomorrow determined to sing to the Lord and give thanks each day for all things and in all things. It may be a weak, inaudible song, but there is a divine, supernatural power in doing it. God has heard your cry, and he is working out the solution even now! Continue giving thanks always and never stop singing love songs to our precious Lord and Savior. __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

16-04-23, 21:18	#1303
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Sharing in Christ’s Great Goodness “If you ask anything in my name, I will do it” (John 14:14, NKJV). We show the measure of our Christ by what we ask in his name. We are told to ask large and to expect great things. We show forth the greatness of Christ by the greatness of our requests. We have so little of Christ because we ask so little. We limit our petitions to material things. It’s true that we are to make our needs known, but to ask only for food and shelter is to diminish our vision of his greatness. The kingdom of God is “joy and peace in the Holy Ghost!” We serve a triumphant Christ, and we are called to share in the triumph. Do you have joy and peace in the Holy Ghost? Do you go to his throne and ask the Father “in the name of Jesus?” God wants us to think big and ask big. Asking “in Jesus’ name” is an invitation to share in God’s great goodness laid up for those who believe. What about the hungry crowd of 5,000 in the New Testament when Jesus asked his disciples what they should do? He said, “Show me your plan to feed them. What can be done to meet this crisis?” Jesus already had a plan, but he was testing their faith. Who could have conceived of feeding that mass of people with five loaves of bread and two fish? God will not tell us what his plan is. He will not even give us a hint. He insists on our having faith in his promises, his majesty, his past miracles on our behalf. His word to us is “Believe!” Your Lord has a way prepared, and he has the power to fulfill his plan. Faith is evidence that cannot be seen. There can be no rest for us in our fiery trials until we believe he stands ready to do the unthinkable, the impossible. Our part is to simply trust that he will perform what he has promised. __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

19-04-23, 14:19	#1304
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You The Mighty Hand of God “Your right hand, O Lord, has become glorious in power; your right hand, O Lord, has dashed the enemy in pieces” (Exodus 15:6, NKJV). Even though some Christians know they are forgiven and safe, they lack a sense of power against the flesh. They have not come into the knowledge of ‘full deliverance’ from their evil nature. By his blood, he secures us; then by his mighty hand, he breaks the power of sin in us. Sin still dwells in us, but it does not rule! What an incredibly encouraging word in these days of disillusionment and super-human efforts to be free of sin's power! Yet we are so reluctant to acknowledge the work of God's hand. It goes against our pride, our sense of justice and even our theology to accept the truth that our deliverance from sin's dominion comes from a power other than our own. However, look at our example: Israel went out armed, but all the battles were the Lord's. “…the Lord does not save with sword and spear; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands” (1 Samuel 17:47). The blood secured Israel from divine judgment, but the high hand of God delivered them from the power of the flesh. They had experienced security and rejoiced in it; now they needed power. Power to once and for all do away with the old enemy, and power to arm them against all the new enemies to come. That power is in the Lord's high and mighty hand. We have been given great and precious promises surpassing those given to Israel. God has promised to deliver us from all evil and seat us in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, free from the dominion of sin. However, first we must learn to hate sin. No agreements or compromises. Coddle your sin, play with it, let it remain, refuse to demolish it, and one day it will become the most painful thing in your life. Do not pray about victory over the sins of the flesh until you have cultivated a hatred for them. God will have nothing to do with our excuses and appeasement. Are you enslaved by a secret sin that causes turmoil and anguish both physically and spiritually? Do you hate it with a passion? Do you feel God’s holy wrath against it? Until you do, victory will never come. __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

21-04-23, 23:58	#1305
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You The Path of Surrender God begins the process of surrender by knocking us off our high horse. This literally happened to Paul. He was going his self-assured way, riding toward Damascus, when a blinding light came from heaven. “He fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?’” (Acts 9:4, NKJV). Paul knew something was missing in his life. He had a knowledge of God but no firsthand revelation. Now on his knees, he heard these words from heaven: “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. It is hard for you to kick against the goads” (Acts 9:5). The words turned Paul’s world upside down. Scripture says, “He, trembling and astonished, said, ‘Lord, what do you want me to do?’” (Acts 9:6). Paul’s conversion was a dramatic work of the Holy Spirit. Paul was being led by the Holy Spirit into the surrendered life. He had no other ambition, no other driving force than this new life. “Indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ” (Philippians 3:8). By today’s standards of success, Paul was a total failure. He didn’t construct any buildings. He didn’t have an organization. The methods he used were despised by other leaders. In fact, the message Paul preached offended large numbers of his hearers. At times, he was even stoned for preaching it. When we stand before God at the judgment, we won’t be judged by our ministries, achievements or number of converts. There will be but one measure of success on that day. Were our hearts fully surrendered to God? Did we lay aside our own will and agenda and take up his? Did we succumb to peer pressure and follow the crowd, or did we seek him alone for direction? Did we run from seminar to seminar looking for purpose in life, or did we find our fulfillment in him? I have but one ambition, and that is to learn more and more to say only those things the Father gives me. Nothing I say or do of myself is worth anything. I want to be able to claim, “I know my Father is with me because I do only his will.” __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

25-04-23, 20:19	#1306
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Family Research Council The hand of the Lord came upon me and brought me out in the Spirit of the Lord, and set me down in the midst of the valley; and it was full of bones. Then He caused me to pass by them all around, and behold, there were very many in the open valley; and indeed they were very dry. And He said to me, "Son of man, can these bones live?" So I answered, "O Lord God, You know." - Ezekiel 37:1-3 It's easy to get distracted by things we want only to realize that the greatest gift we have outside of our salvation through Jesus is the very breath we take. Take a moment to praise the Lord for the breath you take, which we so often take for granted. In today's Stand on the Word bible reading, we read the most familiar verses of Ezekiel, which can be found in chapter 37, verses 1-14. This passage gives Ezekiel's vision, in which God revealed that only He could give life to dry bones. We read in verse 8, "I looked, and tendons and flesh appeared on them and skin covered them, but there was no breath in them." In verse 10, we see why we ought to praise the Lord for the very breath we take. "So I prophesied as He commanded me, and breath came into them, and they lived, and stood upon their feet, an exceedingly great army." Praise the Lord, for it was when God breathed upon these dry bones that they could live again. Ezekiel's vision reveals God's promise to restore Israel and reminds us that we can do nothing apart from Him. If you have been in a spiritually dry season, I encourage you to ask the Lord to breathe fresh upon you today. If your life is full and everything is great, take a moment, list your blessings, and give thanks to God. I often begin prayer times by taking a deep breath and praising the Lord. The hymn "Count Your Blessings" opens with this verse and then the refrain: When upon life's billows you are tempest tossed, When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, Count your many blessings name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done. Count your blessings, name them one by one; Count your blessings, see what God hath done; Count your blessings, name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done. Take another moment to count your blessings and give praise to the Lord. Your day will be changed as you take time to acknowledge and thank Him for what He has done. Heavenly Father, we praise You for every breath we take. May we never take it for granted. Lord, I ask you to breathe fresh upon anyone who is in a spiritually dry season today. As you raise them, may they run the race before them with a sense of urgency and be about the work you have commanded and commissioned them to do for your glory and honor. In Jesus' Name, Amen. __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

27-04-23, 18:28	#1307
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Here's a great 15 minute video..... __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

01-05-23, 14:31	#1308
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You The Tears of the Righteous The Bible declares emphatically that not one tear of his children falls to the ground. David wrote, “You number my wanderings; put my tears into your bottle; are they not in your book? When I cry out to you, then my enemies will turn back; this I know, because God is for me” (Psalm 56:8, NKJV). The tears of the godly are so precious to him, he preserves them. If God preserves my tears, will he not preserve me? It is almost too fantastic to take it all in. What strikes me in such a word is that if he counts every tear of mine, then how precious is my blood to him, my livelihood, my needs? Christ assured his disciples, “Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows” (Luke 12:6-7). Until we are persuaded in our minds that God takes special notice of each and every affliction which we endure, it is impossible we can ever obtain such confidence so as to believe that he would put our tears into his bottle. Can we believe that truth — that the God who numbers every hair on our heads and bottles every tear — will he not then interpose on our behalf? Hear this word in your spirit: Every tear you have shed over past sins, every tear shed in times of afflictions and stress, every tear shed over lost souls is written in his book. You may say, “I don’t weep. I seldom shed tears.” I believe in soul tears, which only God sees, inward, silent tears shed often in times of trouble and need. Not one of your tears has been wasted. Not one is in vain. Even at the end of time, God will attend to our tears once more. “I heard a loud voice from heaven saying, ‘Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people. God himself will be with them and be their God. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.’” (Revelation. 21:4). To believe in God is to believe this incredible truth! __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

03-05-23, 19:23	#1309
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You In Luke 11:1, we read that Jesus was praying in a certain place, and when he finished, one of his disciples said, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples." In Luke 11:2-4 we find the response of Jesus to his disciple: "So He said to them, "When you pray, say: Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins, For we also forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one." Then in Luke 11:5-13, we find additional instruction on prayer that helps us see that persistence and expectancy in praying is vital to our prayer life. "And He said to them, "Which of you shall have a friend, and go to him at midnight and say to him, 'Friend, lend me three loaves; for a friend of mine has come to me on his journey, and I have nothing to set before him'; and he will answer from within and say, 'Do not trouble me; the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give to you'? I say to you, though he will not rise and give to him because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will rise and give him as many as he needs. "So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish? Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!" I encourage you to do as one of the disciples did and ask the Lord to teach you to pray. When you do, He will open doors of instruction for you. The opportunities will be different but each time, He will provide you with instructions on what to pray for and how to pray about it during your prayer times. As you begin this time of instruction, I encourage you to pray the Lord's Prayer over the next forty-five days asking the Lord to give you a spiritual breakthrough in your life and for our nation. Ask the Lord to put the Lord's Prayer on your heart and mind so that you begin praying it before you even get out of bed. Another way to grow in your prayer life is by meeting and praying with others. This week I want to make you aware of one opportunity where you can gather and pray. This week we observe the National Day of Prayer, an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May to invite people to pray for our nation. It was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. You can visit https://www.nationaldayofprayer.org/ to find prayer events near you. "Jay" Johnston, frc.org __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

04-05-23, 13:55	#1310
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Day of Prayer Task Force. Let us pray: We come with fervent hearts to praise You, Lord. You are the Word, the Way, Truth and Life. You are the Alpha and Omega, Lion of Judah, and Almighty God, who was, and is, and is to come. You clothed Yourself in flesh and dwelt among us, to remove our sin and clothe us in Your righteousness, that we might dwell with You forever and ever. With broken, humbled hearts we repent of our sins. Confessing to You our faithlessness, prayerlessness, and disobedience. Forgive us for our doubt, our prideful and quarrelsome words that reveal our unclean hearts. Cleanse us and renew a right and steadfast spirit within us, we pray. With grateful hearts we thank You fervently for the blessings in our life and throughout America; they are more than we are able to count. We will remember Your grace and testify to Your goodness in all generations. Help us to refrain from complaining, but instead be prompted to pray faithfully in every circumstance. Teach us to have a content heart, knowing You are always enough for our every need. As the church, we commit to pray and love our neighbor and nation as You loved us, that our reputation in this world would be rooted in Your love. Holy Spirit, work and overflow through us in every prayer, thought, word, and deed. May our character, conversations, and conduct reflect the righteousness in which You clothed us and commanded us to live. With an obedient heart we put on the full armor of God; Your breastplate of righteousness guards our heart from which flows the springs of life. We pray fervently for our communities and country; the people who are in the church, family, education, business and workplace, military, government, arts, entertainment and media. Every person is Your workmanship, fearfully and wonderfully created and loved. With hopeful hearts we pray that all would choose to receive Your love and follow You. We pray that America would confess, “Jesus is Lord,” and reflect Your righteousness in every sphere of influence and every aspect of our lives. We ask that heavenly hope would flood our hearts, silence hate, and that You will heal our land. Believing You –– all You are, all You said, and all You have promised –– we pray fervently in the righteousness that avails much. In Jesus’s name we pray, Amen! Tim Wildmon, President American Family Association __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

05-05-23, 14:09	#1311
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You The Coming of Jesus I believe Jesus is coming soon. We see the Lord moving in astonishing ways around the world, and events are rapidly moving toward the day of his return. “So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near – at the doors! But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, but my Father only” (Matthew 24:33,36, NKJV). Those who know the scriptures have a Holy Ghost inner sense of the Lord’s return. We hear the call of the Holy Spirit dwelling in us, crying, “Even so, Lord Jesus, come.” Jesus said, “Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns” (Matthew 24:42,44, 46). Beloved, do you feel or sense that these are the last of the last days? Do you share the longing for his appearance? You are in good company! There are millions of people around the world who are also looking up, waiting with great anticipation for our Lord’s return. Until then, God wants us to stand out as believers, as messengers of hope in our hopeless world. We do not despair because we know that Jesus Christ’s triumphant return will bring an end to the evil and hopelessness that have poisoned mankind since the serpent spoke to Adam. When the Lord comes back to earth, he wants to find us hopeful, ready and working hard to spread his message of hope to the world. Even though we don’t know the day or hour, we know he can come at any time. Let us gather the harvest with joy as we await that great day. What a day that will be! “The dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore comfort one another with these words” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18). Look up, and be encouraged; our redemption is drawing near. AMEN __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

07-05-23, 15:47	#1312
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Friedberg Moravian to celebrate 250th Anniversary Friedberg Moravian Church is celebrating the congregation’s 250th Anniversary in 2023. Special services and activities will be held throughout the year, including a Singstunde April 23, Anniversary Lovefeast May 7, Walk to Adam Spach’s homesite September 23, Praise and Worship Conference October 20-22, a commissioned choral anthem and historical reflections. Our activities will be guided by scripture, Psalm 100:5 “For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” We are praising God for all the blessings and comfort He has provided for us over the years. We have so much to celebrate! God has surely been the rock of our salvation from generation to generation. Our history began in August 1754 when Adam and Maria Spach came to what is now the Arcadia Township in Davidson County. While living in Maryland, Adam came to know the Moravians and helped found the Graceham Church. Based on his association with Moravians, he wanted to live near the new settlement in the Wachovia tract. Adam first visited Bethabara in September 1754. He and his family visited frequently, seeking safety in the settlement during the French and Indian War (1754-1763). Within a few years, Spach and his neighbors had established a new community south of the Ens Creek. They continued to request that Moravians hold worship services there. Finally on November 24, 1759, Ludolph Gottlieb Bachhof held the first public service in Spach’s home. On May 6, 1766, Brother Peter Frey, Sr. became the first person laid to rest in “God’s Acre”. During 1770, a Moravian Society was organized, Bachhof became the first minister, Sunday services began, and a school was started. The first lovefeast, Easter service and Christmas lovefeast were also held. In 1771, the name “Friedberg” (Hill of Peace) was approved by the congregation. In 1772, the Society was consecrated as a Moravian Brethren’s Congregation. On April 4, 1773, Friedberg officially became a congregation of the World Wide Unity of the Brethren after action by Synod in Herrnhut. This is our anniversary date. Friedberg has always been grounded in Biblical Truth. We honor our heritage and deep faith in the Lord Jesus Christ by proclaiming the Gospel openly through worship, witness, Bible study, missions, fellowship, and community service. Though we are certainly thankful for our past, we are most focused on our future. Please join us in celebrating 250 years! Winston-Salem, North Carolina __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

11-05-23, 14:51	#1313
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You It Was Settled on the Cross We must once and for all understand what Christ did for us at the cross. He forever took away the sin which separated us from God; from here on, we will always have the right to enter his presence without hesitation. We are accepted in God's sight. There is not a single thing in his heart against us! Stop and consider the sublime efficacy of Christ's blood. We are fully pardoned because the cross cleared us in God's eyes. We may lose sight of that, but God never does. The veil was torn to allow us to enter directly into God’s presence. He says, “You are accepted! Come boldly to my throne, for you are my beloved.” Settle this in your heart. If God is satisfied, we should also be satisfied. Is there anything between you and your Father in heaven? You may say, “My heart condemns me! I've said and done things that would grieve the Spirit. I feel unworthy, and the heavens seem closed off to me.” To all this, you can answer, “But God is greater than my thoughts or feelings, and he has accepted me!” Do you hate your sins? Have you confessed them? Do you believe that “that through this Man is preached to you the forgiveness of sins” (Acts 13:38 NKJV)? Many Christians falter when it comes to accepting forgiveness. They live with unnecessary fear and bondage because they don’t understand the victory of the cross. There is now nothing blocking access to God except our fear and lack of knowledge. When the veil was split, he came out of the holiest of holies to directly commune with you and me. How incredible! God was so anxious to forgive us that he made himself a sacrifice for our sins. Sin was judged and the offense was removed. Now God can say, “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more” (Hebrews 8:12). He has closed the distance between us! God does not desire to impute sin against us. Instead, he seeks to reconcile us to himself. He longs for us to live in the blessedness of knowing the sin question was forever settled at the cross. __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

15-05-23, 14:21	#1314
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Turning Your Anxiety into Healing Jesus didn’t mess around when he talked about fear. His core message was “I, not your fear, am in control.” Are fear and anxiety part of our God-given makeup? Oddly, yes. Fear alerts us to danger, and anxiety is our physical response to those alerts. Life from birth to grave is filled with such moments. While on earth Jesus felt the anxiety of those to whom he ministered. His words about fear were designed to not only calm them but also to help them grow in their spiritual walk. We are all plagued by fear at one time or another. In my younger years, most of my life decisions were in some way tied to my fears. Yes, I wanted to please God, but it was my own expectations and standards for success that I focused on. I was driven by a mighty fear of failure that threatened at times to consume me. Your fears may be about a relationship, money or illness. You might suffer from depression, or maybe you just carry around a general anxiety about the state of the world. No matter the battle, Jesus invites us to view life through his divine lens. “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33, ESV). Peace and freedom from fear come only when we disconnect our hearts and minds from the values of the world. This is a conscious, deliberate act. It is interrupting the endless stream of harassing thoughts to say, “Lord, give me your perspective, right here, right now. Help me to let go and see that it is all in your control. I will worship you, not my fears.” Being attentive to what lies beneath our fears clues us in to what matters to us, and therefore what needs adjusting. “He’s got the whole world in his hands,” says the song. Do you believe it? Or are you mired in needless worry and fear? It is when we seek the face of God our creator, when we turn our attention fully to him, that we find rest and safety. “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you” (Isaiah 26:3). __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

17-05-23, 14:34	#1315
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Daniel 9:4-19 (Daniel's Prayer) "I prayed to the LORD my God and made confession, saying, "O Lord, the great and awesome God, who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, we have sinned and done wrong and acted wickedly and rebelled, turning aside from your commandments and rules. We have not listened to your servants, the prophets, who spoke in your name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land. To you, O Lord belongs righteousness, but to us open shame, as at this day, to the men of Judah, to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and to all Israel, those who are near and those who are far away, in all the lands to which you have driven them, because of the treachery that they have committed against you. To us, O LORD, belongs open shame, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because we have sinned against you. To the Lord our God belong mercy and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against him and have not obeyed the voice of the LORD our God by walking in his laws, which he set before us by his servants, the prophets. All Israel has transgressed your law and turned aside, refusing to obey your voice. And the curse and oath that are written in the Law of Moses, the servant of God, have been poured out upon us because we have sinned against him. He has confirmed his words, which he spoke against us and against our rulers who ruled us by bringing upon us a great calamity. For under the whole heaven, there has not been done anything like what has been done against Jerusalem. As it is written in the Law of Moses, all this calamity has come upon us; yet we have not entreated the favor of the LORD our God, turning from our iniquities and gaining insight by your truth. Therefore the LORD has kept ready the calamity and has brought it upon us, for the LORD our God is righteous in all the works that he has done, and we have not obeyed his voice. And now, O Lord our God, who brought your people out of the land of Egypt with a mighty hand, and have made a name for yourself, as at this day, we have sinned, we have done wickedly. "O Lord, according to all your righteous acts, let your anger and your wrath turn away from your city Jerusalem, your holy hill because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem, and your people have become a byword among all who are around us. Now therefore, O our God, listen to the prayer of your servant and to his pleas for mercy, and for your own sake, O Lord, make your face to shine upon your sanctuary, which is desolate. O my God, incline your ear and hear. Open your eyes and see our desolations and the city that is called by your name. For we do not present our pleas before you because of our righteousness, but because of your great mercy. O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive. O Lord, pay attention and act. Delay not, for your own sake, O my God, because your city and your people are called by your name." __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

21-05-23, 19:27	#1316
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Marvelous Grace What in us attracts the marvelous grace, mercy and pardon of our Savior? Is it beauty, goodness or strength? Is it a unique potential or special gift? No! It is our great need and utter helplessness that attracts his grace. It is our weakness that attracts his strength. Our helpless condition is exemplified by the man in Mark chapter two: “Then they came to him bringing a paralytic…” (Mark 2:3, NKJV). Here is a picture of absolute helplessness, a man without an iota of strength or power. Observe this trembling, weak, helpless creature fated to spend the rest of his life imprisoned in his own bed. He is you and me before we knew anything of Christ's power. Jesus stood before this helpless man and did not even mention his physical condition. The Lord brought him into the Father's presence clean and cleared. “When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven you’” (Mark 2:5). What a beautiful picture of the love of God in Christ Jesus! Here is a helpless man, too overwhelmed by his infirmity to even whimper. Show me the child of God who struggles against a hated, intractable sin, one who is crushed beneath a load of guilt and despair, who feels helpless and weak; and I will show you the one who is the object of abundant grace. Where sin abounds, grace abounds much more (see Romans 5:20). When you have repented, stand by faith on the finished work of the cross. Through faith in him, your sins are under the blood. You now live on the other side of the veil, seated with Christ in heavenly places, fully accepted and one with Christ and the Father. You are no longer separated from God by sin. You are more than a conqueror, living and moving in the Spirit. You are the apple of his eye, renewed in your mind and made an heir to all that belongs to Christ the Lord! __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

25-05-23, 03:16	#1317
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Expressing the Completeness of Christ Romans 11:17-19 says that we are grafted as wild olive branches into Christ, the holy tree and root. The same Spirit and power that was in him enables and quickens us. We sit like Christ at the right hand of God by faith. How do we know our sins are forgiven? By faith alone. We take God's word for it and are in turn blessed with peace of mind. So it is with God’s power. We must take his word that his power is now at work in us, causing us to will and to do of his good pleasure. He empowers us to face our weakness with faith that he will help us walk in obedience. The paralyzed man who stood, walked and carried his bed is a type of the believer who has mastery over sin. What an expression of Christ's power he was! Just think of the hope his faith and healing must have given to all who were helpless and in need. Isn't this what God is after today? Is he not seeking triumphant believers who will show the world how Christ completely delivers us from the clutches of sin? Those around us should see believers who live above the lusts and pleasures of this world. Our society desperately needs more men and women who love their spouses and are faithful, parents who nurture and train their children in the ways of the Lord, and young people who practice purity and separation from all that defiles. We have enough Christian resources. What we do not have enough of are Christians who truly show who Jesus is. There is a shortage of those of whom it can be said, “There goes a Christian who really expresses who Jesus Christ is! There is one who has nothing to promote and nothing to prove but Christ, risen and glorified. There stands a person who shines with the beauty and simplicity of the Lord. There is one who has what I'd like to have, a reality that cannot be denied.” This should become the one and only goal of our lives: to fulfill God's intention, to be a witness who expresses the fullness and completeness of Christ. __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

26-05-23, 14:51	#1318
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You He Makes Wars to Cease “He makes wars to cease...” (Psalm 46:9, NKJV). What welcome news this is to the child of God shattered and torn by warfare of the soul. The battle in my soul is his battle, and he alone can end it. My loving Father will not permit the flesh or the devil to bully me into defeat. My war is clearly defined by James, who wrote, “Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members?” (James 4:1). These pleasures include covetousness, pride and envy, enemies of the soul that are common to us all. Throughout the ages, holy men of God have asked, “Will the lust-war in me ever end while I am alive?” That question sounds familiar, doesn’t it? It is the same question we who love the Lord still ask today. The war, of course, will end. It will inevitably be followed by the greatest peace ever known. How will it end, though, and who will end it? Sometimes it is our battle and our obligation to enforce godly discipline in our lives. If it is a battle beyond our control, God will end it in his time and way. Until then, he will give us patience and the assurance that he loves us to the end. The Greek word used by James is stratenomai, which suggests a battle against carnal tendencies, a soldier at war. It is derived from stratia, which means a host, or army encamped. Didn't David speak of hosts encamped against us? Our carnal inclinations come against us as a powerful force determined to undermine and keep us in turmoil in hopes of shipwrecking our faith by attacking our minds with fear and unbelief. However, if you study the Hebrew word for war used by David in Psalm 46:9, there is cause for great rejoicing. It is milchamah, which means to feed on, consume and devour. What the Word says to us here is simply marvelous. God is going to stop the enemy from consuming us, from devouring us. He will no longer permit lust to feed on us or overcome us. Be encouraged! God will cause our inner war to cease. This is his battle, and he never loses. Amen __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

28-05-23, 19:33	#1319
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Discouragement When we are hurt, lonely, afraid and overwhelmed, we are often prone to turn aside from our true source of peace and look to human resources. How tragic! We know God is still on the throne, waiting for us to call on him. We know the answer to our needs is to be found alone with God, shut in with him. We will even confess to our spiritual friends, “I know I need to pray. I know God has the answer, and I need to turn to him.” It is discouragement of the worst kind to give in to fear and despair while ignoring the majesty and faithfulness of a loving Father. God said to Israel, “...I have talked with you from heaven… In every place where I record my name I will come to you, and I will bless you” (Exodus 20:22, 24 NKJV). Sadly, Israel answered, “God has forgotten; he hides his face: he will never see” (Psalm 10:11). “But Zion said, ‘The Lord has forsaken me, and my Lord has forgotten me.’” (Isaiah 49:14). Are you a discouraged Christian? You are if you ignore the Lord's majestic promises and doubt that he will fulfill them. He means it when he says, “Can a woman forget her nursing child, and not have compassion on the son of her womb? Surely they may forget, yet I will not forget you” (Isaiah 49:15-16). We will be downcast if we keep carrying unnecessary burdens of guilt, fear, loneliness, anxiety and turmoil simply because we refuse to rest on the Lord's great and precious promises. These words from Romans remind us to rest in him: “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” (Romans 8:28). David reminds us in the psalms, “The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their cry. …The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles” (Psalm 34:15,17). Let us not become impatient and act according to our feelings. When we get into trouble and cry out to God, all of heaven goes into motion on our behalf. If we could see into the spiritual world to behold the good things he is preparing for us, it would be an incredible sight for our eyes. __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

30-05-23, 23:57	#1320
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Faith Founded on the Word God is concerned that we are being shaken in our faith, that we don’t trust him during a crisis. Beloved, our worst sin is our unwillingness to believe he will do what he promised. That offends him more than adultery, fornication, drug or alcohol abuse or any other sin of the flesh. He desires – he requires – trust in him. His Word says, “The Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials” (2 Peter 2:9 NKJV). “God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear” (1 Corinthians 10:13). These verses are either the gospel or they are lies. If they are the gospel, it is vital that we stand on them. God wants us to be able to say, “Lord, if I die standing here, trusting you to see me through, then let me die in faith. Live or die, I’m yours.” Now, I admit that’s radical. Could you go that far to say, “live or die?” Many of Jesus’ followers did. They and countless others through the centuries had that uncompromising faith, many even unto death. They weren’t superhuman or endowed with special gifts. What they did have was the real deal, a faith that subdued every doubt and fear. They stood solid on the promises of God. They said, “Let all the winds and waves of hell come at me. I stand in the shadow of his wings, and that’s all I need.” God yearns to bring you into that place of trust. He wants you never again to fear but to truly rest in his power and ability. He knows how to deliver you from all snares, trials and temptations. There is peace unlimited in that place. When we fully trust in the Lord, we can say with songwriter Thomas Chisholm, “Great is thy faithfulness, O God my Father, there is no shadow of turning with thee. Thou changest not, thy compassions, they fail not; as thou hast been, thou forever wilt be. Great is thy faithfulness!” __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

01-06-23, 14:03	#1321
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Looking unto Jesus “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2, NKJV). If you were to ask me what is happening in the world right now, I would answer, “Everything Jesus warned us would happen in the last days!” He foretold that men’s hearts would fail them for fear of what is happening on earth. He warned of earthquakes in various places, nation rising against nation and ethnic group against ethnic group. We have lived to see the beginning of all the end-time prophecies being fulfilled before our very eyes. What did Jesus tell us to do when we see this? “Now when these things begin to happen, look up and lift up your heads, because your redemption draws near” (Luke 21:28). Now, this sounds counter-intuitive because it’s a natural human response to be anxious when we see and hear dire news. We read the prediction of earthquakes in the Bible, and here they are in today’s headlines. Rumors of wars and uprisings today echo old prophesies that are now coming to life before our very eyes. We are flooded with foreboding; our adrenaline spikes, and we can feel the anxiety coursing through our veins. Our hearts “fail us for fear.” Will we make it? Will our families survive? Jesus is adamant. “Look up,” he says. “Stay focused on me.” He continually pulls our thoughts back to him. Psalm 46:2 should be written on our hearts: “Therefore we will not fear, even though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.” David’s calming words are a reminder that God has brought us this far and he will take us to the finish line. God’s desire is that we draw close to him and never forget that he has all things under his control. Let your heart be encouraged that he is coming soon. Our redemption is at hand! “Let us hold fast the profession of our hope without wavering; for He who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23). __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

05-06-23, 00:10	#1322
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Hope in the Coming Storm David gives us a clear picture of Jesus’ attitude in the face of the coming storm. Peter preached from David’s psalms, which speak prophetically of Christ, saying, “I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is at my right hand, that I may not be shaken” (Acts 2:25, NKJV). The literal meaning here is “I was always in his presence, beholding his face.” David added, “Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope” (Acts 2:26). Here is the secret: Jesus kept the Father always before his face! He continually sought out secret places to be shut in with his Father. It was only after being in God’s presence that Christ came forth to minister, fully persuaded that his Father was always with him. “He’s right beside me and nothing on this earth can move me.” The Greek word for move here means “agitated, shaken or disturbed.” Jesus was saying, “No evil, trouble or misfortune can cast me down or shake my confidence. My Father is in complete control.” Beloved, if we’re going to face the coming storm, we must be prepared so nothing disturbs our spirit. The only way to do that is to spend time in the Father’s presence beholding his face. We have to be shut in with him in prayer, practicing his presence, seeking him until we’re thoroughly persuaded that he is at our right hand. The Lord assures us, “Don’t be moved or agitated by anything you see. Keep your eyes focused on me and you’ll retain your joy.” Peter quoted the psalms and David’s words, saying, “You have made known to me the ways of life; You will make me full of joy in your presence” (Acts 2:28). He was essentially declaring, “I faced everything that you will face in the closing days of time. I had the same foreboding because I saw the coming storm. I ran into the presence of my Father, and he calmed my spirit by showing me the outcome. In his presence I found all the joy, hope and rest I would ever need to the very end.” My flesh will rest in hope. __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

06-06-23, 14:43	#1323
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You When our enemies heard that it was known to us and that God had frustrated their plan, we all returned to the wall, each to his work. From that day on, half of my servants worked on construction, and half held the spears, shields, bows, and coats of mail. And the leaders stood behind the whole house of Judah, who were building on the wall. Those who carried burdens were loaded in such a way that each labored on the work with one hand and held his weapon with the other. And each of the builders had his sword strapped at his side while he built. The man who sounded the trumpet was beside me. And I said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, "The work is great and widely spread, and we are separated on the wall, far from one another. In the place where you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us." - Nehemiah 4:15-20 Before these verses, we read in verse 14, "And I looked and arose and said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, "Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes." In this verse, Nehemiah set the table for his and the Israelites' work of building the wall and defending themselves. Nehemiah motivated them, but that was not enough to finish the job. The Israelites recognized that each had a specific role in building the wall. For the job to be completed, the Israelites had to understand their role and that every assignment was significant, and they had to be in a place to hear the trumpet. This is also true of our spiritual roles; as followers of Jesus, we function best when we use the gifts and talents given to us by God. We must recognize that each gift is meaningful and all are necessary to accomplish the assignments God has for us. The kingdom work before us can be achieved with greater unity when followers are using their God-given gifts and talents and not functioning out of jealousy or competition with someone else's gifts and talents. Living out the Great Commandment and the Great Commission should be our focus as followers of Christ. We should take this to heart as followers of Jesus so we can stand together and be about our heavenly Father's business until the trumpet sounds. Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gifts, talents, and assignments You have given Your followers. May each follower of Christ be faithful in carrying out their assignment while using the gifts and talents You have given them. Lord Jesus, may Your Kingdom come, and Your will be done here on earth as in Heaven. In Jesus' Name. Amen. As we seek to advance faith, family, and freedom together, may the Holy Spirit be free to work in your life. __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

07-06-23, 15:18	#1324
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Tested by Our Falls and Failing Our failures constantly test us. I do not mean that Christians who fall back into old sins and turn back to the world are being tested. No, those believers face a shipwreck of faith. I am talking about believers who are growing in holiness and are set on following the Lord. Peter gave them a warning: “You therefore, beloved, since you know this beforehand, beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked” (2 Peter 3:17 NKJV). Some of you may have taken a fall in spite of all the progress you’ve made with the Lord. For example, maybe you’ve had a family disagreement. You may say, “It was a fit of anger. I was provoked by my own family, and I blew up. I can’t understand it. I thought I was becoming a little sweeter, a little more like Jesus, but somebody pushed the wrong button, and I lost it. I’m only human.” It doesn’t matter that you were provoked or even that you were in the right. The provoking simply proved you need deliverance. Scripture says, “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice” (Ephesians 4:31). God is going to keep testing you until you say, “I’ve got a spirit in me that’s got to go.” You will see no growth in Christ, no peace at home or on the job, until you can say, “You’re right, Lord. Take it out!” If you’re being tested in this area or any other area for that matter, you may be thinking, “I feel so unworthy. How much ground have I lost? Does the Lord still love me?” Friend, if you have truly repented, you haven’t lost any ground whatsoever. God puts his loving arms around you and says, “I allowed that to happen so you would see what is in your heart, but be assured that you’re making progress. You have said you want to walk with me, and I am teaching you. I know what is inside of you and will allow you to be provoked until you are free.” Are you being tested? If so, pray, “Lord, you have put your finger on some areas in me that need to change. Help me make those changes and encourage me that I’m not going backward. I’m going forward with you!” __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

11-06-23, 22:44	#1325
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Fine-Tuning Your Mind and Spirit If there is one word that expresses God’s nature, it’s harmony. From the moment he spread out the heavens and filled the earth with life, every component worked together. We see this symphony all around us, from the stars to the jungles to the hidden caverns deep in the ocean. It is the same with humans. God designed every part of us to work together in divine synchronicity. Today, even with our advanced knowledge, we have only scratched the surface of the interconnection between mind, body and spirit. What we know for sure is that good, balanced health is up to us and that we are stronger in some areas than in others. Squeezing in time for physical exercise competes with my need to spend time with God. My phone and computer threaten me with mental overload, and I’m then stressed around my loved ones. Where do we find balance? First, ask God to show you the areas in your life that need nourishment. Sometimes we even need to ask for desire and motivation. Ask for wisdom, for resources, for help from others. He is the source, so ask big! Scripture gives us a boost of faith: “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16, ESV). Second, take it one step at a time. One phone call to encourage someone, ten minutes in prayer or a walk around the block are more beneficial than you think. It’s important to set realistic goals that give us confidence to move forward. Third, reach out. Galatians 6:2 says, “Bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Asking for help honors God and gives others an opportunity to serve. People in leadership often struggle with this, feeling like they should always be the ones to help. It’s important to remember how much Jesus relied on his disciples and modeled relational living. Don’t underestimate your value. You and I are exquisitely designed and worthy of care. As “instruments of righteousness” (see Romans 6:13), our lives are a song of praise to our creator. “May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:23). __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

13-06-23, 16:27	#1326
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You "For the people of Israel and the sons of Levi shall bring the contribution of grain, wine, and oil to the chambers, where the vessels of the sanctuary are, as well as the priests who minister, and the gatekeepers and the singers. We will not neglect the house of our God." - Nehemiah 10:39 We often hear of work deferred on buildings because the owner sees it as someone else's responsibility or does not want to use his or her financial resources to maintain the structure. What could have been a minor repair turns into a significant undertaking with a heftier price tag. When the Israelites began rebuilding the temple and the city of Jerusalem, they agreed not to neglect the house of God. They also agreed to bring in tithes and offerings throughout the year. In Nehemiah 10:28 and the following verses, we see that they agreed to spend money in ways that brought glory to God. The Bible calls us to be givers, aligning ourselves with God, the ultimate giver. While church and other ministry buildings exist and house good work, there is a house of God that is greater than any physical building. We read in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, "Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body." These two verses should motivate us to read and study the Bible, pray, and spend time in the presence of God. Sadly, we often allow our hearts to instead be divided by the things of this world. Today, I urge you not to neglect your spiritual body, so you don't fall into spiritual death. In John 10:10, we read, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly." God desires the best for your life. May you receive what He has for you today and never neglect it. Heavenly Father, I thank you for every person reading this word. I pray that they have professed their faith in Jesus, have a hunger to read and study the Bible, and will not neglect their dwelling place. In Jesus' Name, Amen. __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

16-06-23, 14:25	#1327
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You God’s Military Outpost in Us Peter said, “[We] are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time” (1 Peter 1:5, NKJV). I see in this a prophecy that in these last days God is once more going to reveal his keeping power to his people. Christ prayed to the Father concerning his disciples, saying, “While I was with them in the world, I kept them in your name. Those whom you gave me I have kept; and none of them is lost except the son of perdition, that the scripture might be fulfilled” (John 17:12). The disciples were sustained by a mighty power outside of themselves. They could not have made it a single day without Christ's keeping power. What a glorious prayer Christ prayed on our behalf! “I do not pray that you should take them out of the world, but that you should keep them from the evil one” (John 17:15). In the Greek, the work ‘kept’ is very expressive. As used in 1 Peter 1:5, it means “to establish a military outpost, to guard, hem in, protect with a garrison, to establish a fortress with a full military line, with full military apparatus, to discern the enemy far in advance and protect from danger.” Not only is the Lord a strong tower, but he establishes in us a fully-manned military base. We actually become a powerful outpost with armies of soldiers and weapons ready for combat and with a lookout who sees the oncoming enemy far in advance. Jesus prayed, “Keep them from the evil...” The Greek word for ‘keep’ means “deliverance from the effect or influence of anything bad, evil, grievous, harmful, lewd, malicious, or wicked” and “deliverance from Satan himself and all that is corrupt or diseased.” Put it all together, and it seems almost too good to believe. We are God's military outpost, protected by a fully-equipped spiritual army in full battle array, completely informed of every enemy plan and device, wholly defended against Satan and every evil power. We can now understand what the scripture means when it says, “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

19-06-23, 14:51	#1328
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Investing in Morals or Hearts? At the beginning of Acts when Jesus was resurrected and found the disciples, do you remember what they asked him when they saw him? “So when they had come together, they asked him, ‘Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?’ He said to them, ‘It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority’” (Acts 1:6-7, ESV). They wanted a type of Christian nationalism for Israel. We have to be careful when we start asking God questions like “When will you heal the sick? When will you take my prodigal children and bring them back to the cross? When will you cause churches to be holy and righteous?” When we ask these questions, are we asking deep down, “When will you come and let the glory of your name be known?” Or are we asking, “Will you at this time restore the nation of America to its former glory?” If we are invested more in changing the morals of our nation than we are in people’s hearts turning to God, we are living under a theology of man’s glory rather than a theology of the cross. We used to be ‘moral’ in America. In the 1950s, our culture was very ‘moral’, but so many people were still lost. People down in the South almost all went to church. If you were a real estate agent or salesman of some sort, the best place to make contacts and build a better business was in church. So many people back then were no more Christian than they are, or aren’t, today. People desperately needed a theology of the cross that didn’t depend on their hard work to perfect themselves or earn God’s blessing. This is why Paul wrote, “But we preach Christ crucified, a stumbling block to Jews and folly to Gentiles” (1 Corinthians 1:23). We should be like him and say, “I don't preach personal glory that comes through prosperity and materialism and God doing what I want for my life. Nor do I preach national glory that says my nation is better than yours. I don't preach anything but the cross of Jesus Christ. Through him and him alone will people be saved and lives transformed!” __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

20-06-23, 17:38	#1329
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Just Before Victory If you are suffering, it may be that God is working things out for you in his own way. It is most often the sovereign work of our God unfolding a master plan known only to him. Through all the suffering of God's people, he is at work. Study your Bible, and you will discover these same patterns in the lives of all of God's people. In case after case, when God began to fulfill his promise, the roof seemed to cave in first! Think of Daniel and the three Hebrew children. They gave themselves to a life of holiness and separation from the world and all its pleasures. Daniel pledged himself to a life of prayer, tears and intercession, but what did that get him and his three friends? Testing just before victory. You don't go from the prayer closet to some mountaintop victory; you go to the lions' den. You don't go from consecration to a life of ease and blessing only; you go to the fiery furnace. These men were not afraid to face pain and suffering, because they knew it always ended in God having his way. Think of Elijah. God gave him a glorious promise of a spiritual awakening in the land, an outpouring of abundant rain and a new day of victory for God's people. Look at all the confusion that broke out after the promise was given. Jezebel threatened his life, chasing him into hiding in the mountains. Wicked forces killed the prophets of God, and the land continued in wickedness and drought. Can you imagine how confused Elijah must have been? “What kind of answered prayer is this? I'm left all on my own. Where is the Lord? Has his promise failed?” All the while God was doing exactly what he said he would do. The confusion would soon pass and the answer would be forthcoming. Christ left his disciples a promise that could have seen them through all the confusion and pain, but they were too broken up in sorrow to remember. He had told them, “After I am risen, I will go before you into Galilee” (Matthew 26:32, NKJV). In other words, “Don't try to figure it all out. Don't question the time of confusion. It's not your battle. God is at work! When this is all over, I will still be going before you. Your shepherd will still be there.” What an encouraging word! __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

25-06-23, 00:23	#1330
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Why Do the Righteous Suffer? Some people read the Book of Job and think that the driving question behind it is “Why does God allow suffering?” The real issue behind Job, though, is “The righteous suffer, and we sometimes don’t know why.” The Bible openly admits that the righteous will suffer simply because of their acts of faith. “We should not be like Cain, who was of the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own deeds were evil and his brother's righteous. Do not be surprised, brothers, that the world hates you” (1 John 3:12-13, ESV). “Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted” (2 Timothy 3:12). As a missionary in the Middle East for many years, I saw believers endure persecution that would be unimaginable in the West, at least for now. A pastor swept off to jail where interrogators break his arms. A girl murdered by her own father for leaving Islam. It can become so easy to murmur in our hearts, “God, why do you allow this?” When we process this question outside of scripture, we will be tempted to bitterness and despair. The righteous suffer for doing what is right. We deserve glory and get pain instead. It may feel bitterly unfair, and it is. That said, suffering helps to sever us from our umbilical cord to the world. I do not say this to make light of anyone’s suffering. Pain is never easy to address because it’s always complicated and deeply personal. However, it is also a stark reminder that we will only experience the blessings of heaven after death, not in this world. When we engage with suffering, especially when it’s for doing good, we may easily become overwhelmed. Meditating on scripture is never more important than at these moments. “Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains. You also, be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. …Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast. You have heard of the steadfastness of Job, and you have seen the purpose of the Lord, how the Lord is compassionate and merciful” (James 5:7-8,11). __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

26-06-23, 14:56	#1331
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You The Root of Our Perfection Billy Graham once said, “Anxiety is the natural result when our hopes are centered in anything short of God and his will for us.” When we believe we're meant to live a perfect life, there is a sense of a mandate to be flawless. It’s good to desire holiness and perfection, but the angst that comes from failure to attain them often generates anxiety, stress and fear that we aren’t right with God. We’re never at peace, and we can’t enjoy the fullness of the presence of God and a hunger satisfied because we think our perfection is up to us. It’s exhausting and unattainable. All the anxiety in the world won’t make you a better person or a more perfect Christian. Rather than tormenting ourselves with what we lack, we are called to examine our hearts and offer our insufficiency up to him. Hear the words of the apostle Paul: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6, ESV). The coastal forests stretching from central California to southern Oregon are home to the giant redwoods, some of earth’s oldest, most magnificent trees. These towering beauties are a literal look back through time. When we stand awestruck at the foot of an old-growth redwood tree, it’s hard to believe that it began its climb as a mere seedling. Although tiny and hundreds of years away from become a giant, the small plant is perfect at every stage of growth. Its size and vulnerability belie the greatness in its DNA. We too, as God’s handiwork, are complete at every phase of growth when we receive our sustenance from him. When Jesus said, “You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48), he was compelling us to take on his perfection. His words and Spirit are the nourishment that pushes us upward. Our struggles to please others and impress God are real, sometimes lifelong battles, but the Lord offers a way out. “My power is made perfect in weakness,” he says (2 Corinthians 12:9). He takes the long view sees our great potential even when we are small and wavering. When we entrust our lives to him, we are complete, perfect at every stage of growth. __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

28-06-23, 18:51	#1332
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Prayer Post But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, "Take heart; it is I. Do not be afraid." And Peter answered him, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." So Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came to Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid, and beginning to sink he cried out, "Lord, save me." Jesus immediately reached out his hand and took hold of him, saying to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" - Matthew 14:27-31 This passage is probably familiar to you. You might have heard it as early as Vacation Bible School or Sunday School, or in a read-aloud Bible Storybook. But this is not simply a story for children. Even as adults, it is applicable to our walk with Christ. Two concepts found in these verses can hinder a person from living courageously for Jesus: doubt and fear. In verse 30, we see that Peter is afraid, and then in verse 31, Jesus rebukes Peter for his doubt. We must recognize that when we give into doubt and fear, we are no longer focused on Jesus. We are allowing a lie to take over when we should and can be living courageously for God. Here are a few verses that remind us of God's faithfulness and should encourage us to live courageously for Him: Isaiah 41:10, Deuteronomy 31:6, Joshua 1:5, Matthew 28:20, and Philippians 4:6. So many people get caught up in doubt, but Jesus asked Peter, "Why did you doubt?" We have the Word of God, which tells us we don't need to live life as doubters. Make the decision today that when storms come your way, you will have the courage to trust in Jesus. Take a moment to thank the Lord for Hebrews 13:5, which says, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." And may you be ready to say and live out Hebrews 13:6: "So we can confidently say, "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to me?" Heavenly Father, we thank and praise that you never leave or forsake us. Forgive us for our doubt and fear. Lord Jesus, today we commit to being Your faithful followers. We will keep our eyes fixed upon You and trust You with our lives. We commit, as followers of Jesus, to live courageously for You. In Jesus' Name, Amen. __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

01-07-23, 17:44	#1333
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Nothing but the Cross of Christ In Galatians, the Apostle Paul wrote, “But far be it from me to boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Galatians 6:14, ESV). The crucifixion and resurrection of our Lord is the unique, incomparably central point for all of mankind and all of history. All of history is split before Jesus and after his work on the cross. It radically changed the whole world. However, it not only changed the world, it also radically changed us. So for how many of you is the ‘before and after Christ’ not just a historical thing but also a personal BC and AD in your life? The realization of the cross and Jesus’ presence changes everything. The cross is not only the unchanging reminder of God’s eternal intentionality but also his invitation into an eternity with him. Nothing before that invitation is comparable to what comes afterward. Everything that has been ruined and broken by men can be restored at the cross of Jesus Christ, and you would never want to go back. No one was better equipped to talk about the power of the cross than the Apostle Paul. Very few people had the level of formal training in religious matters and scripture than him. On top of that, very few people had a deeper revelation of the nature of God, salvation and grace; yet Paul also was a man who experienced some of the most incredible manifestations of the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts, visions, healings and visitations. He even talked about being transported in the Spirit to the third heaven. Despite all that, he declared that his message, ministry, mind, soul, heart, passion, priorities, convictions and preaching would all be fixed on the cross. The world and all of his achievements and accomplishments in it had been crucified to him. It was dead. That’s how much it was worth to him, compared to the cross. The glory of the gospel and his Lord Jesus Christ crucified on the cross and raised from the grave eclipsed every other thing in Paul’s life. Do we also live and think that way about the cross? Do we truly grasp how beautiful and powerful God’s work there was? Let’s be crucified to the world and everything it offers to give us value. Let’s fully embrace the cross and the glory of Christ! __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

02-07-23, 20:18	#1334
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You The Power of Being Forgiven Jesus tells us, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who hears my word and believes in him who sent me has everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but has passed from death into life” (John 5:24, NKJV). Indeed, the scriptures tells us from cover to cover that once the Lord forgives our sins, he wipes them from his memory. “I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions for my own sake; and I will not remember your sins” (Isaiah 43:25). “I have blotted out, like a thick cloud, your transgressions, and like a cloud, your sins. Return to me, for I have redeemed you” (Isaiah 44:22). “This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord: ‘I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds I will write them,’ then He adds, ‘Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.’” (Hebrews 10:16-17). Here is abundant good news for every Christian who’s ever sweated, striven or worked to mortify the deeds of his flesh in his own strength. Does this include you? How many promises have you made to God, only to break them? Here is your good news, reported in the book of Micah: “I, the Lord, will subdue all your iniquities.” God has given us image after image in these passages of how he wipes our sins from memory. He blots them out; he remembers them no more; he buries them in the sea; he “subdues” them, meaning he chases them down and captures them. Isaiah even tells us God takes our trespasses and flips them over his shoulder. “But you have lovingly delivered my soul from the pit of corruption, for you have cast all my sins behind your back” (Isaiah 38:17). This means God will never look at our sins or acknowledge them again. Now let me ask you, if God forgets our sins, why don’t you and I? Why do we always allow the devil to dig up some muck or mire from our past and wave it in our face, when all our sin is already covered by Christ’s blood? The cleansing, forgiving power of Christ’s blood is all-encompassing. It covers our entire lives! __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

03-07-23, 18:09	#1335
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 1,912 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,107 Times in 992 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Faith and Finance: A Winning Combination There are few topics more fraught with anxiety than money. Because it is one of the most personal areas of life, even talking about it is socially taboo. If we have been taught poor money skills, we are ashamed and have a hard time seeking help. Christians often carry additional stress about money. Some have been taught that having wealth is sinful. We all know the parable of the stingy rich man who would not help Lazarus. Here’s another verse most Christian are familiar with: “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God” (Mark 10:25, ESV). Conversely, there are those who preach that prosperity is manifest evidence of God’s favor on our lives. Fortunately, balance and focus are found in scripture. “Keep your heart with all vigilance,” we are cautioned, “for from it flow the springs of life” (Proverbs 4:23). God is far more interested in our attitude toward money than he is in money itself. Diligence in knowing our appetites and aligning them with God’s values determines the financial direction our lives will take. In the process, we must be mindful of our vulnerabilities. Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful and desperately sick; who can understand it?” The heart and mind are cunning and can convince us that a poor choice is actually a great one. Anxiety shows up when we realize that we’ve diverged from sound scriptural principles. Staying focused requires a two-pronged approach. Number one is the practical: Am I spending more than I have? The guide is to live principally, modestly and below our means. Don’t buy things you can’t afford and bury yourself in debt. Decide daily to make good decisions and seek sound advice. When you feel that cautionary nudge of the Spirit, listen to it. God may be steering you away from trouble. Second, decide to live in contentment. Don’t covet what others have. Resist allowing social media and shopping sites to feed your hunger for more stuff. Surround yourself with like-minded people. Evaluate your spending habits and examine your motives. Ask yourself, “Am I pleasing God? Am I living a life of balance and deliberation?” Good stewardship requires our full attention. The rewards are peace of mind, confidence, wisdom and a fruitful life that is pleasing to God. __________________ I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people -- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4