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Tarfoot · 31-05-25, 23:48

Where Are Your Accusers?

Christ delivered the beatitudes to a fractured and hopeless body of believers: "Blessed are you who are poor in spirit, who mourn, and who are broken. You are blessed not because you've done anything to earn it, but because I am with you" (see Matthew 5:2-11).

What a revelation! We are blessed simply because Jesus is with us. The blessing of Immanuel, "God with us" (see Matthew 1:23) takes on a whole new meaning in light of Isaiah's prophecy: "I will...give you as a covenant to the people...to apportion the desolate heritages" (Isaiah 49:8, ESV).

The blessing of Christ's presence was going to silence all accusing voices. This silencing happened literally in the woman caught in adultery (see John 8:1-11). The religious leaders brought her to Jesus and demanded that he accuse her, but secretly, they had another reason for bringing her before Jesus. They wanted to accuse him.

Have you ever heard Christians accuse God of something? I hear it from people all the time in my pastoral counseling: "God isn't working in my life. I pray faithfully, but he doesn't answer. I've done everything I can, but he still hasn't set me free." This is exactly what Satan wants us to do: accuse God in our hearts. It creates an endless cycle of bondage.

Jesus answered the adulterous woman's accusers and his own. "He stood up and said to them, 'Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her'" (John 8:7). God was no longer the one being accused. Jesus had turned the spotlight where it belonged, on their own sin. They responded by going away one by one.

Note what Jesus then said, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" (John 8:10). Today, Jesus says to us, "Where are your accusers? Where are the voices that say, 'You're sinful, hopeless, a failure?' They're gone! I am your righteousness now, and I have silenced them all."

When these voices continue to scream and shout in our ears, we will hear another voice above them all that says, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me" (John 10:27). Christ's voice will speak to us, "I have silenced your accusers." His truth cuts through all clamor and din with his peace, which passes all understanding.

Tarfoot · 01-06-25, 15:48

The Gospel of Love and Truth

If there are two concepts that are under attack more than anything else in our culture, they are love and truth. However, it's not these concepts that are under attack; rather, it's Christ who is under attack because Christ is love and Christ is truth.

What we must realize is that truth and love are inextricably linked. They are undivorceable. If you think you can love without truth, you are deceived. The apostle Paul said, "Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ" (Ephesians 4:15, ESV). We must realize and remember that the truth is love.

Sometimes, love is encouragement. Sometimes, love is correction and rebuke. At times, love is about saying "no". However, in God's economy, love is doing what is right for someone, regardless of the personal cost to you. Love is not tolerance. It is not giving in to other people's sins.

When someone says, "Don't all roads lead to God?" Love is looking at that person in the most compassionate and humble way and responding, "Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through him" (see John 14:6). The truth is love!

The apostle Paul writes to the Galatians, "I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel... As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed. For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God?... If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ" (Galatians 1:6-10).

In these verses, Paul draws a line in the sand because if we get the gospel wrong, we get everything wrong. As Christians, we must proclaim the whole truth. There is no gospel without preaching sin and repentance, without talking about heaven and hell.

The gospel is not about good people working hard to do better. It is about being dead in sin and trespass and being supernaturally raised to life by Jesus Christ through the power of his Spirit. It's a spiritual rebirth that comes through faith in Christ, and we must present it in its fullness.

Tarfoot · 02-06-25, 23:24

We Are Not Condemned

"Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God" (Revelation 12:10, ESV).

Satan's accusations are one thing Jesus came to deal with as our living, breathing covenant. God did not send a theology to crush the lies of Satan. He sent Jesus. The earliest prophecy in Genesis stated that Satan would bruise the Messiah's heel but Jesus would crush the devil's head (see Genesis 3:15). Two thousand years ago, Jesus brought that reality into our lives.

Occasionally, I wake up in the middle of the night with anxiety. It's as if I've done something wrong, but I don't know what. That feeling comes from the accuser. He whispers, "You're no good, worthless, a burden to others. Look at your history and how many times you've messed up. You'll never change." Our relationship with that voice began in the Garden of Eden, but when Jesus came, he declared, "That ends right now." He added an amazing reassurance, saying, "Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father" (John 5:45).

It is absolutely essential that we build on the firm foundation of knowing that God does not accuse us. This foundation is not based on law, accusations, or despair, but rather on the glorious and gracious action of God himself. When he hears an accusation against us, he tells Jesus, "Crush it." In that moment, we will hear the voice of the Holy Spirit saying, "Do not listen to that lie. It has been destroyed on the cross." God does not accuse you because his Son has set you free.

Jesus said to the woman caught in adultery, "Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more" (John 8:11). The Bible makes it clear that we are going to sin. However, when we do, the voice we hear will be the voice of the Holy Spirit. He brings conviction for our transgressions; yet it is a hopeful conviction, one that leads to joyful repentance rather than despair.

Friend, we have been given Jesus, and in our time of discouragement, we will hear his voice above all others saying, "Neither do I condemn you." May God supply you with his grace to build on that foundation and rejoice!

Tarfoot · 04-06-25, 00:01

The Joy of the Lord is Our Strength

"And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength." - Nehemiah 8:10b

In the book of Nehemiah, when the Israelites returned from captivity and rebuilt Jerusalem's walls, we find in the first verses of Nehemiah 8 that they convened to have the law read publicly. A priest and scribe, Ezra, read, and the people wept bitterly upon hearing the words of the law. However, Nehemiah, Ezra, and the Levites encouraged them to be happy and said to them, "And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength." (Nehemiah 8:10, ESV). Today, we can also take heart from the fact that our strength lies in the Lord.

Joy is not merely a feeling; it is a firm belief grounded in our walk with God. When we accept the joy of knowing and loving the Lord, we are strengthened by Him to make that next move in overcoming the hindrances of life, which always divert and discourage us from living according to the Lord's plan and purposes for our lives. This joy of the Lord transcends circumstances and helps us to overcome fear, discouragement, and doubt.

As you go about your day, seek the Lord. When you are facing discouraging circumstances, pause for a moment and consider His goodness. Friends, we must rejoice in the Lord and be grateful for the blessings that surround us. I pray you invite the Holy Spirit to work in your life, filling your heart with His joy, transforming you spiritually, and reviving your spirit as you trust the Lord and receive all He has for you.

Today, I pray that you choose joy and lean into the power of the Lord. Remember: He delights in you and calls on You to trust in Him. While reading and preparing to write to you today, two songs came to mind that I would like to share with you: a Children's Song we sing in Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, "The Joy of the Lord," and the second is a traditional Hymn, "Only Trust Him." May these songs and God's Word be used in your heart to encourage others and spread His love.

Tarfoot · 06-06-25, 03:22

Enthroned as King

The apostle Paul writes that when Jesus comes again, "He will manifest in his own time, he who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords" (1 Timothy 6:15, NKJV). Paul is saying, in essence, "When Christ comes, he is going to show everybody who is Lord!"

It doesn't matter what things look like on the outside. Everything may seem out of control, and it may look as if the devil has taken power. However, the truth is that God has put all things under Jesus's feet, and he remains the king over everything.

"For by him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through him and for him" (Colossians 1:16).

This passage proves that almighty God has appointed Jesus Christ as Lord, and all dominion has been given into his hands. Yet all around we see our society and government dethroning Christ, refusing to acknowledge his authority and kingship. We are removing God from our schools and courts and ignoring him in the making of our laws. Now, we are reaping a terrible harvest.

I believe America's rejection of Christ's lordship is the reason behind all the bloodshed, violence, racial hatred, moral decay, drug abuse, and outbreak of deadly sexual diseases in our society. Lawmakers, educators, and the media have made God an unspeakable subject.

However, my concern goes beyond America's rejection of Jesus's authority. I believe the problem of Christ's dethroning is much worse and much more tragic because it is happening in his Church. It's true! Our exalted Lord is being dethroned in churches throughout the land and in the lives of a multitude of believers.

It is understandable that ungodly people would want to dethrone Christ. But how it must grieve God to see Christ dethroned by those who call themselves by his name.

Beloved, scripture tells us that God the Father has enthroned Christ as king over all nations and all creation and as Lord over the Church. "He is the head of the body, the church...that in all things he may have the preeminence" (Colossians 1:18).

Tarfoot · 07-06-25, 21:38

Cultivating a Spiritual Legacy

The word cultivate is used in farming. It is what farmers do when they plant seeds in the right soil, pull weeds, and expect a day of harvest. As mothers and fathers, we cultivate an environment in our homes to give emotional and spiritual growth to our children. A place of faith and trust in God. We come with an attitude of prayer, asking God to help nurture a legacy around us.

How are you doing to cultivate your home, your marriage, and an environment that doesn't just know the Bible and a few verses but believes the Word of God? Have you created a life of prayer and faith around you?

In 1 Samuel 1, we are introduced to a woman named Hannah, who is deeply distraught because she is unable to have children. She is in a place of deep, deep anguish and heartache. Scripture says, "She was deeply distressed and prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly" (1 Samuel 1:10, ESV).

Hannah prayed to the Lord and made a vow that if he gave her a son, she would give him in service to the Lord. So she dedicated him to the Lord's purposes and his kingdom (see 1 Samuel 1:11).

Like Hannah, God often works through our brokenness and difficulty to produce something for his kingdom. In times of brokenness and distress, God will stir our hearts to pray a prayer of faith and believe God for our families, children, and our nation.

Today, I want you to know that if you are walking with God and cultivating an environment of faith, he will answer. Perhaps it's a prayer for biological children or grandchildren who are far away from God. Perhaps it's a prayer for God to bring biological or spiritual children into your life. Your situation may seem impossible, but I urge you to pray like Hannah, who poured out her soul to the Lord.

The idea of dedicating our children to the Lord originates from this story. Through prayer, Hannah broke through to God from a place of desperation. As Christians, we must cultivate a spiritual life that will help our children, spouses, and families walk with God. It is an act of worship and our highest calling to cultivate an environment that fosters spiritual growth in our homes!

Tarfoot · 09-06-25, 23:31

Faith for Dry Bones

In Ezekiel, God showed the prophet a valley full of bones and asked, "Son of man, can these bones live?" (Ezekiel 37:3, ESV).

God asks the same of us today. Can the dry bones in your situation come to life? Can your rebellious child be revived? Can your unsaved loved ones be brought to Christ? It is a question of faith. Do you believe this can happen? It is also a question of desire. Do you want this to happen?

Are you grieved by the dry bones in your life? If your answer is no, that's a sign of dryness, a lack of spiritual passion over the dark condition of the world. Here was Ezekiel's answer: "O Lord God, you know" (Ezekiel 37:3). This was a response of trust that said, "Lord, only you know these things. You have given me a vision of horrific death. Are you suggesting these bones can live? Is it really possible?" The very question awakened Ezekiel's faith. It was what God was waiting to hear, and he does the same with us to stimulate our faith.

"Then he said to me, 'Prophesy over these bones'" (Ezekiel 37:4). Once our faith is engaged and he has stirred our faith, he calls us to action. He asks us to address our situation of dry bones in faith. We are to speak life into our families, believing that God empowers our words. We are to speak life on our jobs, knowing that he holds us in his hand no matter how dark the environment is. To do this, God must breathe his life into our being: "I will...put breath in you, and you shall live, and you shall know that I am the Lord" (Ezekiel 37:6).

God did just that for Ezekiel. The prophet testifies, "So I prophesied as I was commanded" (Ezekiel 37:7). Can you say this about your walk with God? Have you said everything the Lord wants you to say, even the difficult things? That is the power of the proclamation of the gospel.

What happened when Ezekiel prophesied in faith? Ezekiel witnessed all the dry bones on the valley floor come together to form living bodies. I will lay sinews upon you, and will cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and you shall live, and you shall know that I am the Lord" (Ezekiel 37:6)

Tarfoot · 10-06-25, 23:34

Remember and Return

"Remember the law of my servant Moses, the statutes and rules that I commanded him at Horeb for all Israel." - Malachi 4:4

Amidst distractions and uncertainty, Malachi 4:4 reminds us of the importance of remembering and living out the Lord's commandments, even as Malachi warns that the prophetic voice of the Lord will soon go silent for 400 years. This verse serves as a reminder that God's laws provide a divine blueprint for our lives, leading us to a transformed relationship with Christ. When we reflect on the lessons Moses learned, we recall the covenant between God and His people, which is characterized by love and guidance.

As we meditate on this Scripture, let us consider how we can apply its teachings in our daily lives. When we remember and embrace God's laws, we are encouraged by the Holy Spirit to align our lives with the Lord. This calls us to have hearts of obedience, not out of duty, but out of love and gratitude for the grace we receive through our relationship with Jesus. We find that every commandment guides us toward an intimate relationship with God and an understanding of the mission and purpose of our lives.

I pray and encourage you to find a way, that works for you and your schedule, to commit to studying, reading, and meditating on the Word of God today and every day. Invite the Holy Spirit to assist you in reading and studying God's Word to transform your life. As you follow His teachings, you will discover the power and strength to overcome your difficulties through Christ, guidance to make godly choices, and the tools to serve others in His name. Friends, remember that obeying God's commands aligns us with Him and leads to greater joy, peace, and contentment as we are drawn closer to the heart of God. I hope and pray that you embrace His ways and His Word so that your path may be bright.

Take a moment to reflect on your relationship with the Lord. Here are two questions to consider as you start reflecting on your personal relationship with Jesus:

Have you wandered away from the truth found in God's Word?
Do distractions and stress dull your spiritual hunger?

If you find yourself away from the Lord, call out to Him today. God's call is clear, beloved: Remember and return. His promises still stand, and His heart longs to walk closely with you once more. "Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your heart as in the rebellion" (Hebrews 3:15).

As you read and pray over these prayer points, may God use them in your life to advance faith, faith, and freedom.

21-Day Matthew Family Bible Challenge
Read: Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Matthew 4:4; 2 Timothy 3:14-17; Acts 17:11
Pray for families as they read the Gospel of Matthew daily together over the next twenty-one days. Pray that the Lord would use this time to strengthen families, heal hurting or broken families, and reignite a passion for God and His Word in homes across the country. Pray that this Bible Reading Challenge would ignite a passion for spending time in God's Word that lasts beyond the 21 days of the challenge. May the seeds that are planted during this Family Bible Challenge lead to a generation of believers who loves the Lord their God with all their heart, mind, soul, and strength. Pray for those family members without a relationship with Jesus to come to Christ during these twenty-one days.

Tarfoot · 11-06-25, 21:14

Pray First!

Scripture makes it clear that the answer to everything in our lives is prayer mixed with faith. The apostle Paul writes, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God" (Philippians 4:6, NKJV). Paul is telling us to seek the Lord in every area of our lives and to thank him ahead of time for hearing us.

Paul emphasizes that we must always pray first, not as a last resort. Jesus tells us, "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you" (Matthew 6:33). We are to go to the Lord first!

Our ministry receives heart-wrenching letters from many broken Christians. Families are breaking up; people who walked faithfully with Christ for years live in fear and defeat. Each person has been overcome by something: sin, depression, worldliness, covetousness. Year after year, their problems seem to worsen. Yet, what shocks me most about their letters is that very few of these Christians ever mention prayer. They turn to tapes, books, counselors, call-in radio programs, and various therapies, but rarely to prayer.

Why is it so hard for Christians to seek God for their desperate needs during times of crisis? After all, the Bible stands as one long testimony that God hears the cries of his children and answers them with tender love.

"The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their cry"(Psalm 34:15).

"The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles" (Psalm 34:17).

"Now this is the confidence that we have in him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of him" (1 John 5:14-15).

"And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive" (Matthew 21:22).

Beloved, reflect on these promises in scripture. They are overwhelming evidence of God's care. Today, seek the Lord in prayer!

Tarfoot · 12-06-25, 19:56

The light of the gospel shines brightly in the darkness

When we look at the darkness in our world, it's easy to become discouraged. But as Christians, you and I have tremendous hope! Not only does the increasing darkness mean that Jesus is coming soon, but we can take courage in this great truth:

As the world grows darker, the light of the gospel shines more brightly!

God didn't leave us here on this earth to worry and complain about the state of our culture. He called us to shine the light of Christ.

How do we do that? In Colossians 4:5-6, Paul gave us these simple instructions: "Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person."

We shine the light of the gospel through our conduct and our speech.

As Christians, we are to conduct our relationships in a way that makes people say, "I want what you have." We ought to be the best neighbors, friends, and employees we can be, so that when unbelievers see the joy we have in following God, they want to know more about faith in Christ.

But it's impossible to lead anyone to Christ by conduct alone. Some Christians think, I'll just share Christ through my actions so I don't risk offending anyone with my words. But no one can understand how to be saved only by observing the way you live. Words are always necessary to share the gospel. In this passage, Paul gave us two pointers for shining the light of Christ with our words:

"Let your speech always be with grace." There's no reason to be arrogant or brash toward unbelievers. Luke 4:22 says of Jesus, "Gracious words . . . were falling from His lips." The gospel may be offensive to some unbelievers, but we don't have to be offensive in sharing it.
"Seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person." Salt enhances flavor and creates thirst. We do the same by tailoring our message to people's interests and needs. When Jesus talked to an educated Jew, He used an illustration from the Old Testament (John 3). But when He spoke with a Samaritan getting water from a well, He offered her "living water" to satisfy her spiritual thirst (John 4).

If you and I are going to make a difference in this dark world, we must be ready to shine the light of Christ with our actions and words.

I encourage you to pray, as Paul did, "that God will open up to [you] a door for the word, so that [you] may speak forth the mystery of Christ" (Colossians 4:3). Be warned: This is a prayer the Lord loves to answer!

Think about the people you see often: your neighbor, your friend, your coworker, the checkout person at the supermarket, and so on. If you want to shine the light of the gospel in this dark world, then start by simply having a conversation.

The doors God opens for sharing the gospel may be subtle. It's unlikely that someone will ask you, "How can I go to heaven?" But they might reveal they're struggling in their marriage. You should be empathetic, but you can also share the lasting solution to their problem-a relationship with Jesus Christ.

Or someone might vent their frustrations about politics. You can say, "I'm concerned about our country too. But may I share why no political leader can solve our deepest problems, and why I'm looking to another Leader?" Use that opportunity to point to the hope of Christ.

Tarfoot · 14-06-25, 01:14

Costly Love

When I use the word "lukewarm" to describe a person's love for Jesus, I don't mean he is cold toward the Lord. Rather, I mean his love is inexpensive, not costly.

When Jesus addressed the church in Ephesus in Revelation 2, he first commended them for all they had done. He acknowledged that they had labored hard in the faith, hating sin and compromise, refusing to accept false doctrines, never fainting or giving up when persecuted, and always taking a stand for the gospel. Yet Christ said he held one thing against them: they had forsaken their fervent, costly love for him. "Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love" (Revelation 2:4, NKJV).

Somehow, amid all their good works, they had left behind their loving, disciplined walk with Jesus. He told them, "You have left your first love and forsaken the costly discipline of coming into my presence to commune with me."

Jesus was speaking here of believers who started with a burning love for him, not to cold, nominal Christians who never loved him in the first place. He was saying, "It's possible for someone who once had a heart of love for me to let their zeal become lukewarm to the point of seldom praying at all."

Think about how insulting this must be to Christ, our bridegroom. What kind of marriage can there be when a husband and wife have no private times of intimacy? That is what Jesus was talking about here. He wants moments with you all to himself.

It does not matter how loudly you praise the Lord in church, how much you claim to love him, or how many tears you shed. You can give generously, love others, hate sin, and rebuke wrongdoers, but if your heart is not continually drawn to Christ's presence, you have lost your love for him.

All our works are in vain unless we return to our bright, burning love for Jesus. We must realize that loving Jesus isn't just about doing things. It involves the daily discipline of maintaining a relationship, which will cost us something.

Tarfoot · 14-06-25, 16:08

A Sacrifice of Prayer

Christians who neglect prayer have distorted their priorities. Many believers pledge to pray whenever they can find the time. Yet, seeking Christ becomes less important to them each week than washing the car, cleaning the house, visiting friends, eating out, shopping, or watching sports events. They simply don't make time to pray.

People were no different in the days of Noah and Lot. Their top priorities were eating and drinking, buying and selling, marrying, and caring for their families. They had no time to heed the messages of God's impending judgment, so no one was prepared when judgment fell.

Nothing has changed over the centuries. For many Christians today, God remains at the bottom of their priority list, while income, security, pleasure, and family are at the top.

Beloved, the Lord does not want your leftovers, those little bits and pieces of time when you only have a moment to make a quick prayer request. That isn't a sacrifice of prayer. The prophet Malachi wrote, "And when you offer the blind as a sacrifice, is it not evil? And when you offer the lame and sick, is it not evil? Offer it then to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you favorably?" (Malachi 1:8, NKJV).

Malachi was saying, "You're bringing just any old farm animals to sacrifice in God's presence, careless, thoughtless, secondhand gifts. Try giving those kinds of offerings to your governor, and see what happens!"

God expected his people to go through their flocks carefully, examining every animal and choosing the most perfect specimen for sacrifice to him. Likewise, God expects the same from us today. He wants our quality and unrushed time to be a priority.

I once met with the pastor of one of America's largest churches. He was one of the busiest ministers I had ever seen. He told me without apology, "I have no time to pray." What he really meant was he gave no priority to prayer. When I visited his church, I sensed no moving of God's Spirit in the congregation. It was one of the most spiritually dead churches I had ever preached in. How could there be any life if the pastor didn't pray?

Make prayer a priority in your life above all else, including family, career, and leisure time. Today, make a sacrifice of prayer!

Tarfoot · 15-06-25, 17:38

God's Life-Giving Breath

So many churches have seminars, books, websites, podcasts, and meetings for every age group and need. These things are designed for good, but they are nothing if God's Spirit is not breathed into them. In fact, such things have the subtle power to rob us of the life God desires for us.

Consider this tragic scene where God shows Ezekiel a valley of bones. "And I looked, and behold, there were sinews on them, and flesh had come upon them, and skin had covered them. But there was no breath in them" (Ezekiel 37:8, ESV).

This reminds me of churches that have every program and strategy in place but no life. As we go through the motions of church, we are deceived into thinking we are spiritual. It may seem like dry bones are hooking together, but in reality, they lack the life-giving breath of God. I would trade 1,000 worship services and 10,000 strategies for a single breath from his Spirit. Only God can breathe life into what we do so that these dry bones might live.

"Then he said to me, 'Prophesy to the breath'" (Ezekiel 37:9). The Hebrew word for "breath" here is ruach, meaning the Spirit of God. Once again, God commanded Ezekiel to prophesy. The first time, he was to prophesy to bones, meaning people; but this second command is to prophesy to God himself, to the Holy Spirit.

What is God saying? He is telling us that preaching to one another and articulating doctrine is not enough. We cannot just speak to man about the things of God. We must also talk to God about man, beseeching him to act.

God calls men and women of faith to cry out to him to enter their situation and change things. Our eyes cannot see, our ears cannot hear, and our mouths cannot speak anything of him unless he first animates us. When he does this, the results amaze us: "I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and [the bones] lived and stood on their feet" (Ezekiel 37:10). Only God's Holy Spirit can bring life.

God's breath brings us to our feet with boldness. It brings dry bones to life and brings light to a dark and despairing environment. Out of chaos, Jesus produces life. Out of ashes, he produces beauty. Into a horrific situation that the enemy means only for destruction, Jesus breathes new life!

Tarfoot · 16-06-25, 17:54

Do Not Lose Heart

"And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart" (Galatians 6:9, NKJV). This verse carries the connotation of somebody running a race, but halfway or two-thirds of the way, they quit because of exhaustion or pain.

Similarly, there are times when we want to draw back from the work God has entrusted into our hands because of pain or exhaustion. However, we are given an incredible promise. First is the admonition to not grow weary in doing good, for we will reap in the proper time or God's timing if we don't lose heart.

However, the question to ponder is why do people lose heart? Why do they quit? Those who know the redemption of Christ and have been given the Spirit of God know the truth of God's word. Our commission on this earth is not to live for ourselves. The purest expression of the Christian life is found in living for the benefit of others.

While on this journey, Jesus Christ promises to give us all that we need. He'll comfort us in times of sorrow, give us strength in times of weakness, and provide encouragement in times of discouragement. He will keep us running for a divine reason, to reach the lost because that is Christ's mission on earth.

Many lose heart because they have no vision for life in the future. Proverbs says, "Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he" (Proverbs 29:18, KJV). When we lose the vision of God for our future, it is inevitable that we will lose heart.

People lose heart when they fall into constant complaining. The psalmist writes, "I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed" (Psalm 77:3). Complaint is the opposite of faith. Our situation may be difficult, but we must learn not to complain because heaven is our eternal home.

There is no guarantee in God's Word that everything will be easy. There will be times of exhaustion and pain. Still, the Bible says, "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). Not some things, all things are still working together for good because of our love for God and because we are called according to his purpose.

Tarfoot · 18-06-25, 00:39

Come to Jesus

"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." - Matthew 11:28-30

Are you tired? Are you burning the candle at both ends? We have a beautiful and humble offer from Jesus: "Come to me." The invitation is not merely to the weary and the exhausted but to all who have burdens such as worry, anxiety, guilt, and sorrow. Friends, I pray that you accept Jesus' invitation to lay down your worries and cares at His feet as He provides us shelter and rest.

When we come to Jesus, we exchange our heavy yoke for His light one. Even though Jesus does not promise the elimination of our problems, He promises that we will never face them alone as we trust God to help us overcome them. The promise Jesus offers brings healing and rest to our weary mind and soul. Christ's work in our lives enables us to face life's trials with grace and peace.

Friends, if we accept the call to journey to Jesus, we are entering into a relationship in which you will grow and develop in the character of Christ. I am talking here of an ongoing discipleship journey that leads you to trust and follow God, to turn your ways into the ways of God, which will set you free.

As you reflect on this verse and come to Jesus I share this song with you today.

https://youtu.be/zNuSfM6i_bI?si=boA8HihTU_VvZBiz

Heavenly Father, thank you for extending an invitation to come to you. Lord, I pray for all who are carrying burdens and worn out from the battles in this world that they will come and find rest in You. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Tarfoot · 18-06-25, 19:24

A Boast-worthy Testimony

We live in a time when biblical predictions have become visible realities. Paul wrote that in the last days, perilous times would come upon the earth (see 2 Timothy 3:1). Right now, things are taking place we could not have imagined a few years ago.

Jesus predicted that men would become lovers of themselves, lovers of money, hateful, and arrogant. Today, our nation's leaders cannot agree on the most basic common principles. If someone has the nerve to mention sin, he is called a bigot and made an outcast. As God's Word is moved to the sidelines of the culture, sin becomes more and more prevalent.

Pastors feel the spiritual bombardment. Week after week, another marriage may be falling apart, kids harm themselves out of self-hatred, and drugs are more widespread than ever. Sadly, there are fewer voices to help, as reports of an increased number of pastors leave the ministry.

As Christ's church, we cannot fall asleep to these things. The Old Testament speaks of the sons of Issachar, a group that had a knowledge of the times and skill in dealing with the world (see 1 Chronicles 12:32). Can the same be said of the church today?

If we discern the times, we know this is not a moment for half-measures. The only way for us to "deal with the world" is not to let church be business as usual. Jesus said of certain demonic spirits, "This kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting" (Matthew 17:21, NKJV). In these times, our prayers must be fervent because, without spiritual change, things look too bleak.

In the midst of darkness, Jesus calls us to be light. A message for such a time is this: "Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world" (1 John 4:4, ESV). God has done awesome works in the lives of his people, and each one of us is called to proclaim his glory through a boast-worthy testimony.

What does a boast-worthy testimony look like? As the apostle Paul said in scripture, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord" (2 Corinthians 10:17). To do the kind of boasting Paul describes, we must have a testimony worthy of boasting, bringing all glory to God.

Tarfoot · 20-06-25, 23:23

Enter with Boldness

Hebrews contains an incredible promise. It says God's door is always open to us, giving us total access to the Father. "Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which he consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, his flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water" (Hebrews 10:19-22, NKJV).

A few verses later, we are warned that the day of the Lord is fast approaching. "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the day approaching" (Hebrews 10:25). God is saying, "Even now, as the time of Christ's return draws closer, you must seek my face. It is time to go into your secret closet and get to know me."

Beloved, I believe we are already seeing these signs today. Our financial system is close to a total meltdown, violence and immorality are on the rise, and our society is pleasure-focused. False prophets or "angels of light" have deceived many with their doctrines of demons. At any time, we can expect to see the hour of tribulation, which will cause men's hearts to fail with fear.

Before all this happens, though, the writer of Hebrews says, "Don't let the truth slip away from you! Stay awake and alert. You have an open door into God's holy presence, so go into him with full assurance of faith, making your petitions known. Christ's blood has already made the way for you, and nothing stands between you and the Father."

What an assurance that we have every right to enter boldly into the holy of holies to receive all the help we need!

Tarfoot · 22-06-25, 20:57

A Yielded Life Produces Peace

Do you want Jesus to be king of your life? Are you willing to do everything he commands? Then let me show you two wonderful blessings that come to all who enthrone Jesus as king of their lives.

First, scripture says if you will submit yourself to Jesus, waiting to receive his counsel and direction, you will partake of his holiness. "Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but he for our profit, that we may be partakers of his holiness" (Hebrews 12:9-10, NKJV).

Paul commanded us to come to Jesus, asking him to give us dominion over all our sins and fears: "And do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace" (Romans 6:13-14).

God is saying, "If you want to know abundant life, a true and full life, then submit yourself to me. I will give you life without fear, guilt, or condemnation!"

Second, those who submit to the lordship of Christ will walk in peace without fear or anxiety. "To grant us that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all the days of our life... Through the tender mercy of our God, with which the dayspring from on high has visited us; to give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace" (Luke 1:74-75,78-79).

When a person has enthroned Christ in his heart, such a life produces peace that passes all understanding, and you can see that peace in the person's face and demeanor. If we yield our lives to him, he will shine his light into our darkness and guide us into peace and rest. What a wonderful promise!

Tarfoot · 24-06-25, 13:50

Faith That Moves Mountains

"And Jesus answered them, 'Truly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what has been done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' it will happen. And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.'" - Matthew 21:21-22

I find it amazing that we read in Scripture the very Word of Jesus, as seen in Matthew 21:21-22, and yet we often ignore His teachings and choose to disobey. The Words recorded in Scripture are from the One who gave His life for us, and who loves us the most. Let's review what Jesus tells us, "Truly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what has been done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' it will happen. And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith." As we pray and exercise our faith, may we all begin to experience the life Jesus desires for us and see our prayers align with God's will.

Friends, right here in these two verses, we are reminded of the incredible power of faith. Jesus uses the metaphor of moving mountains to illustrate that with genuine belief, nothing is impossible. The mountains symbolize the obstacles and challenges we face in life, whether those are our current circumstances, personal struggles, relational issues, or a BHAG -- a big, hairy, audacious goal.

When we come before the Lord in prayer, He invites us to bring our mountains to Him. But the key is not merely in asking but believing. May our faith in and trust in God increase, and may the work of the Holy Spirit refocus our vision, directing our minds from the size of our problems to the size of our God.

Beloved, I pray that this will serve as a reminder that our prayers are powerful and effective when rooted in unwavering faith. As you face your mountains today, remember that with God, you hold the power to overcome. Have faith in His promise, believe in His goodness, and watch Him move the mountains in your life.

Tarfoot · 26-06-25, 21:07

The Lordship of Christ

Those who submit to Christ's lordship have an increase in strength and knowledge of him. They literally gain new mental and physical strength. They do not faint along the way because Jesus pours his own strength into them as they go.

"For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy" (Colossians 1:9-11, NKJV).

God will keep those who submit to his lordship blameless until the day of Christ's coming. If we submit to Jesus, doing as he commands and not leaning on our own understanding, we will never lack anything. He will supply everything we need to please him. The Lord himself will hold and keep us blameless to the very end!

"That you were enriched in everything by him in all utterance and all knowledge, even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you, so that you come short in no gift, eagerly waiting for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will also confirm you to the end, that you may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord" (1 Corinthians 1:5-9).

Beloved, we are to entrust our lives into Jesus's care. It then becomes his responsibility to hold and keep us: "But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one" (2 Thessalonians 3:3). He says, "If you keep me enthroned on your heart, I'll keep you blameless until my coming. I'll keep you from falling."

"Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator" (1 Peter 4:19).

Tarfoot · 28-06-25, 02:40

Bearing Fruit

Jesus said, "Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away; and every branch that bears fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit... If anyone does not abide in me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned" (John 15:2, 6, NKJV).

This portion of scripture convicts me deeply. I have read and re-read these powerful words of Christ, and I cannot escape their convicting power. The Holy Spirit has impressed upon me the importance of understanding these words, "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away; and every branch that bears fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit" (John 15:1-2).

This matter of Christians bearing fruit is not optional with God. He watches over his vine and all the engrafted branches with great jealousy and concern, patiently waiting for the branches to bring forth fruit. He stands beside it with a pruning knife in hand, lovingly looking for the slightest evidence of corruption, blight, or disease that could hinder growth. God expects fruit from every branch. Without fruit, it is impossible to honor and glorify him or be a true disciple of Christ. Jesus said, "By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be my disciples" (John 15:8).

Bearing fruit has everything to do with pleasing God, fulfilling our mission in Christ, and having our prayers and petitions answered. Jesus said, "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you" (John 15:16).

Actually, bearing fruit concerns what we are becoming, rather than simply what we are doing. I am bearing fruit when nothing hinders the flow of Christ's life into me. That is what Jesus meant when he said, "You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you" (John 15:3).

Beloved, Jesus is saying, "Because you believed my word, trembling over it, letting it reveal every hidden secret, bringing to light every dark thing, and allowing the Word of God to purge you, the hindrances are all gone!"

Tarfoot · 28-06-25, 22:24

Hear His Voice

Millions have been converted because one man heard God's voice. Saul "fell to the ground, and heard a voice" (Acts 9:4, NKJV). When Saul became Paul, he continued to hear the voice of the Lord. He knew his shepherd's voice.

Peter allowed the Savior's voice to come to him. "Peter went up on the housetop to pray... And a voice came to him..." (Acts 10:9, 13). The Gentile race was welcomed into the kingdom, along with the house of Cornelius, because Peter obeyed this voice.

We also must allow God's voice to come to us. "For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. Today, if you will hear his voice" (Psalm 95:7).

Oh, what God could do with Christians who learn to hear from heaven! Yet instead of waiting for God's voice to come to us, we run to counselors and psychologists, read books, and listen to programs, hoping to hear from him. We want a leader to follow, a plan, or a clear word of direction. Few know how to go to the Lord and hear his voice.

God wants to shake the earth once more. The whole universe is ready for Holy Ghost convulsions! "See that you do not refuse him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused him who spoke on earth, much more shall we not escape if we turn away from him who speaks from heaven, whose voice then shook the earth; but now he has promised, saying, 'Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven'" (Hebrews 12:25-26).

He has promised, "Once again, my voice will be heard. Those who hear will shake the earth. Heaven and earth will be moved. By the hearing of my voice, whatsoever is loosed on earth shall be loosed in heaven."

To the last church, the Laodicean church, the Lord cries, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with me" (Revelation 3:20).

Beloved, be ready for the last call of Christ to the church: "Open up. Let me into your secret closet. Talk with me and let me talk with you. That's how I will keep you from the hour of temptation that is coming on all the world."

Tarfoot · 30-06-25, 17:47

Amazing Grace

The grace that Jesus says he pours out upon us is unparalleled in the history of all mankind. The word "grace" has become almost as common as the word "prayer" in the Bible. We all go, "Oh, yes, I believe in grace. Sure, of course." We sing the hymn "Amazing Grace" and emphasize the second word, agreeing that grace is wonderful, a thing we all enjoy.

But wait, that's not all that grace is! It is so much more than we could ever imagine. Why are our hearts not exuberant with worship or enamored with grace? Because, to us, grace has become minimized and acceptable. It has become normal, average, something we are content with.

As I talk about this revolutionary, unmerited grace, this gift from God that changes your heart and produces fruit in you, many of you say, "Grace...yes, but..." If you are one of these, you are dangling in the realm of legalism. You are escaping the realm of grace and becoming trapped in trying to do it yourself.

See what Paul says about this to the Galatian church: "O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you?... Let me ask you only this: Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing with faith? Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?" (Galatians 3:1-3, ESV).

Sadly, many of us say, "Thank you, Jesus, for your grace on the cross. That grace has cleansed me and given me a clean slate. Thank you for my fresh start, but now I can do it myself." The problem is that you cannot do it yourself. Many are offended by grace because grace says we can't do it on our own; every time we try, we fail miserably.

Friend, do you want to be free today? Then say, "I'm a failure on my own; I cannot keep the law of God by myself." After that, thank God for his amazing grace.

Tarfoot · 07-07-25, 21:41

Faith Is Your Victory

Have you failed? Is there a sin that easily besets you? Do you feel like a weakened coward, unable to get the victory over secret sin? Yet with that weakness in you, is there also a consuming hunger for God? Do you yearn for him?

"For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith" (1 John 5:4, NKJV).

Your hunger and thirst for God are the keys to your victory. That makes you different from all others who have been guilty of failing God. It sets you apart. You must keep that hunger alive. Keep thirsting after righteousness. Never justify your weakness, never give in to it, and never accept it as a part of your life.

Faith is your victory. Abraham had weaknesses; he lied, almost turning his wife into an adulteress. But "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness" (Romans 4:3).

Sure, you have failed. Maybe yesterday or even today! Do you believe Jesus has the power to ultimately free you from sin's power? Do you believe the cross of Jesus means sin's bondage is broken? Do you accept the fact that he has promised to deliver you from the snare of Satan?

Let me tell you exactly where I believe the victory lies. Let your heart accept all the promises of victory in Jesus. Let your faith tell your heart, "I may not be what I want to be yet, but God is at work in me, and he has the power to loosen sin's hold on me. It may be little by little, but the day will come when faith will conquer. I will not always be a slave. I am not the devil's puppet and will not be his victim. I am a weak child of God, wanting the strength of Jesus. I am going to come forth as pure gold tried in the fire. God is for me!"

Beloved, commit it all to him. He will keep you from falling and present you faultless before the throne of God with exceeding joy!

Tarfoot · 10-07-25, 17:26

Strength in Weakness

A woman once wrote to me, "My marriage is failing. I seem to do everything wrong in raising my children. I feel like I am not worth anything to anybody. I've not been a very good wife, mother, or Christian. I must be the world's worst failure."

When men and women think they can do nothing right, God delights in using our failures. The kind of people the Lord is looking for are those who know that if anything good happens through them, it must be because of God. All the hotshot Christians who go about bowling people over with their great abilities never impress God.

God looked down on a scheming, base, weakling of a man named Jacob and said, "Fear not, you worm Jacob...I will help you... Behold, I will make you into a new threshing sledge with sharp teeth... You shall rejoice in the Lord, and glory in the holy one of Israel" (Isaiah 41:14-16, NKJV).

Men often use God to achieve fortune, fame, honor, and respect. Talent, personality, and cleverness are used to advance God's kingdom, but God is not impressed. His strength is perfected in our weakness. We are unable to obey his commandments in our own strength.

God calls us to a life of holiness and separation. He tells us we can be free from the bondage of sin. His Word presents some impossible challenges: "Resist the devil. Walk in the Spirit. Come out from among them. Love your enemies. Leave behind all your fears. Put down your lustful desires. Let no sin have dominion over you."

When you think honestly about how little you can do on your own to fulfill these challenges, you realize how very weak you are. Your heart begins to cry, "Lord, how can we do such great, holy things?" That is when our Lord takes over! He comes with such a comforting message: "Lay down your weapons. Quit trying to be so self-sufficient and strong. I am your weapon and your strength. Let me do what you never can do. I will give you my righteousness, holiness, rest, and strength."

Beloved, we cannot save ourselves or please him in any way other than by receiving the blessings of the cross by faith. Today, let him be in charge of your growth in holiness.

Tarfoot · 12-07-25, 02:26

Jesus Is Near

Are you facing a crisis that has driven you to your knees? Physical pain, financial turmoil, troubled marriage? Has your trial continued so long that your spirit has sunk into despondency?

Multitudes of Christians face excruciating situations beyond their control, and things seem hopeless. They've exhausted all their resources and pressed forward, believing that God will meet their needs; but their situation has gone from bad to worse. The more they pray, the further away God seems, and they think he no longer cares.

If this describes you, I want to encourage you. Do not give up! Jesus is near to you. He desires to meet your needs and give you a breakthrough, no matter how desperate your circumstances are.

A scene in Mark's gospel addresses a desperate circumstance. A man named Jairus was a devoted God-fearer in an immediate crisis. "Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name, and seeing [Jesus], he fell at his feet and implored him earnestly, saying, 'My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well and live.'" (Mark 5:22-23, ESV).

Imagine Jairus's desperation. His young daughter was deathly ill, and when he learned that Jesus the healer was nearby, he ran to the Messiah. This man probably fell on his face and begged for a miracle, saying, "Lord, unless you do this, I have no hope. Doctors can't help me. You must make my miracle happen."

Note the exact phrase Jairus uses in the verse above: "So that she may be made well and live" (Mark 5:23). Jairus believed the Lord for the impossible, declaring, "Jesus, you can!" He knew that if Christ touched his daughter, she would be healed.

We know the rest of Jairus's story. Jesus told the entire household, "Why are you making a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but sleeping" (Mark 5:39).

Today, your situation may seem beyond hope, but not to Jesus. He raised Jairus's daughter from the dead, and he is ready to step into your situation with the same resurrection power.

Tarfoot · 12-07-25, 19:28

Amazing Faith

When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, said, "I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith." Luke 7:9

In Luke 7:9, there is a moment in the Bible where Jesus is amazed at the faith of the centurion. Now the centurion, as a man of power, understood what it was to command and be commanded. He also knew he didn't have to have Jesus come to his house for his servant to be made well; he just needed to say the word. The centurion's faith impressed Jesus, and in it is a life lesson about believing and trusting.

We face challenges that, from our perspective, seem impossible to overcome. We find ourselves in situations where we feel powerless, much like the centurion. However, it is in these moments that our faith shines and guides us through the impossible. Beloved, we must acknowledge that no matter what, no matter how it appears or feels, may we all declare today that we will trust in God and His Word.

Every morning, I encourage you to ask God to increase your faith and the faith of others. I challenge you to dedicate time each day to read God's Word and trust it. May you fill your life with scripture -- placing it on your walls, in your car, speaking it aloud over your life -- and watch God start moving in areas you once considered hopeless. Friends, we can join with God and His Word in believing that with Christ, all things are possible. I encourage you to ask the Lord to step in and see it as an opportunity to believe Him for the impossible.

I am reminded of the song "What Faith Can Do" by Kutless and invite you to pause and listen, and ask the Lord if He is amazed by your faith in Him. You may have to let go of all the things of this world that you have been holding onto and place your complete faith in Jesus to do what He needs to do in your life.

Friends, let us examine our faith today. Do we limit the power of God from working on the impossible? We can, like the centurion, come to Jesus with faith, knowing that our limitations do not bind His authority.

Pray with Me:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for this powerful word from Luke 7:9. Lord, I am trusting You to make my faith an extraordinary faith as I live this life, believing You to do what You need to do to make me to be who I am supposed to be by living as a person with remarkable faith in You in order to do all You will do for Your glory! In Jesus Name, Amen.

Tarfoot · 14-07-25, 23:27

Two Absolutes

The longer we live for Christ, the more difficult it is for us to accept easy, cure-all solutions. In our own struggles, we have found great comfort and help in two wonderful absolutes.

The first absolute is that God really loves me. God is not in the business of condemning his children. He is a loving Father who wants only to lift us out of our weaknesses.

I caught a glimpse of that love recently while walking in the woods around our farm. Not once did I stop to consider the birds flying about, free and healthy. Suddenly, on the ground just ahead, a crippled little bird flopped around. Struggling so hard to fly, the baby bird could only flip over helplessly in the dust. I stooped down to pick it up. It was then that a familiar scripture came flashing through my mind. "Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will" (Matthew 10:29, NKJV).

I once thought that verse read, "Not a sparrow falls to the ground without the Father knowing about it." However, Matthew's version states that no sparrow falls without the will of the Father.

You see, we are that sparrow. God is with us, even when we fall. The Father does not fall into our sin, but he does come down to our fallen condition. He does not abandon us on our way down.

Sometimes we recognize his great love only when we hit bottom. We have won a great victory if we can be convinced God loves us even in our wounded, crippled condition. Our strength is renewed by his everlasting love. Just rest in that wonderful love. Don't panic. Deliverance will come.

The second absolute is that it is our faith that pleases him the most. "But without faith, it is impossible to please him" (Hebrews 11:6). God counts our trust as righteousness. "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness" (Romans 4:3). We may not understand why he sometimes seems to take a long time to intervene, but we know he will keep his word to us.

Tarfoot · 16-07-25, 01:01

The Overcoming Christian

A person who believes that power is equally divided between God and Satan is double-minded and unstable in all their ways. This explains why "in time of temptation [some] fall away" (see Luke 8:13). They fall back into fear and lose sight of God's mighty power.

Jesus taught to "watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Matthew 26:41). The spirit of God in you yearns to teach you confidence in his power, but the flesh seeks to give in to fear.

I believe fear, not weariness, put the disciples to sleep while Jesus prayed in the garden. They had just received the news that Jesus would be betrayed and delivered into the hands of sinful men, that Peter would become a traitor, and that they would all be offended and scattered. Suddenly, they forgot all his miracles, his mighty power to heal the sick and raise the dead, and his power to multiply loaves and fishes. They were terrified of being abandoned by the Lord. They slept the sleep of doomed men.

When Jesus asks us to pray that we not be led into temptation, he is saying, "Pray that you learn to trust God's power now, instead of having to go back again and again into the arena of temptation until the lesson is learned!"

The Bible says that "the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations" (2 Peter 2:9). How? By putting you under fire until you come out singing, "He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world" (1 John 4:4).

At times, you may have to yield to temptation. Even the saintliest of God's people occasionally do. That is why God made special provisions for those who fail: "And if anyone sins, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous" (1 John 2:1).

Our Lord is not nearly as grieved by our yielding to temptation as he is by our not learning how to deal with it. He is hurt more because we have not trusted his power to deliver. God is hurt not so much by what we do as by what we do not do. The overcoming Christian is one whose life confesses, "God has the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. Amen!"

Tarfoot · 17-07-25, 21:08

No More Excuses

"But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, 'I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it. Please have me excused.' And another said, 'I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them. Please have me excused.' And another said, 'I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.'" Luke 14:18-20

The Parable of the Great Banquet in Luke 14:18-20 describes guests invited to a large banquet making excuses not to attend. One says he bought a field and needs to inspect it; another says he purchased five yoke of oxen and is on his way to test them; still another says he recently got married. Each invited guest excuses himself from the feast with a distraction that prevents him from sharing in the celebration of a big banquet.

Our reflection on this passage encourages us to ask: What excuses do we make that hinder our full commitment to God's invitation? Maybe it's our busy schedules, our fears, or our feelings of insecurity about whether we are deserving. But God calls us to live abundantly and joyfully as He extends an invitation for us to join His banquet of grace and love.

Today, I urge you to set aside your excuses and say "yes" to God's invitation. Friends, we need to seize every opportunity to grow, connect, and serve that God provides. Remember, being in His presence, even for a moment, is an opportunity to taste and see that He is good.

Beloved, may we not overlook the blessings God has for us. I pray that you will dedicate yourself to walking in faith, releasing distractions, and moving forward to recognize the work of the Holy Spirit and say "yes" to the feast and the transformative power of God's love in your life. As you forsake all for Christ, you can set aside all distractions and excuses and accept His invitation to join Him in the work He is doing. AMEN

Tarfoot · 19-07-25, 00:21

Resurrection Power

"There came from the ruler's house some who said, 'Your daughter is dead.'" (Mark 5:35, ESV).

This news must have struck Jairus's heart like a knife. He had just heard Jesus tell the woman with the issue of blood that her suffering was over, and now he was being told that his suffering had only begun. I picture this godly man thinking, "My lack of faith allowed my daughter to die.

There is an important message in this passage for everyone whose situation has fallen apart completely. Maybe your healing didn't come to pass, or your marriage has ended. Maybe that lost loved one never came to Jesus. We simply don't understand why God allows some tragedies to happen.

The kind of faith Jesus calls for in this scene is the most difficult kind to have. Every circumstance tells us that it's too late for God to intervene. However, Jesus is looking for a very particular faith in such times, a faith that says, "Yes, my situation is past all hope, but Jesus can still do this." This kind of faith was required of Abraham. His son Isaac was already considered dead when Abraham raised a knife to slay him in obedience to the Lord, yet just when the promises of God seemed to be untrue, the Lord intervened (see Genesis 22).

That is exactly the way Jesus intervened for Jairus. He told him, "Do not fear, only believe" (Mark 5:36). I don't believe Christ was requiring faith of Jairus here as much as he was speaking faith into him. Just as the Lord said at the creation, "Let there be light," so he said to Jairus, "Let there be faith."

Friend, if Jesus were to speak audibly to you today, I believe he would say the same to "Have faith!" He knows you are beyond all your own strength and abilities, and he is creating faith in you. He is prophesying over you, saying, "Just have faith for your marriage, for your children, your physical affliction, your finances, your work in ministry, for every area of life that even now lies on its deathbed."

We know the rest of Jairus's story. Jesus told the entire household, "Why are you making a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but sleeping" (Mark 5:39). Your situation may look hopeless too, but it doesn't to Jesus. He raised Jairus's daughter from the dead, and he is ready to step into your situation with the same resurrection power!

Tarfoot · 23-07-25, 17:08

God Chooses the Weak

"God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty" (1 Corinthians 1:27, NKJV).

God still chooses the weak to show forth his strength. Have you ever grieved over weakness? Have you felt insignificant, frail and useless to God? Have you looked upon others who seem so strong, so perfect, and thought of yourself in comparison as too sinful, too dull to be used by God? God is not looking for spiritual giants but rather for ordinary saints with childlike faith who have lost all confidence in the flesh.

God will confound the strong and wise by anointing those who are considered weak and foolish as his instruments. The Lord will bypass those who lean on the arm of flesh, who trust in their talents, knowledge, background, and family reputation. Instead, he will raise up the brokenhearted, weak, and weary. He will pour on them a spirit of praise and a baptism of love. He will show them his greatness, faithfulness, covenants; and they will become strong in the Lord and in the power of his might.

Is there a spirit in you that urges you on to new and higher places in the Lord? Is there a fire for God ignited within? Do you feel a drawing to a renewed faith and trust in God? Be thankful! That is the call of Jesus Christ the Lord!

His promises to us are great and precious. "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).

"As it is written: 'Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love him.' But God has revealed them to us through his Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God" (1 Corinthians 2:9-10).

Tarfoot · 25-07-25, 01:24

He Did Not Threaten

Here is an amazing truth connected with Christ's suffering: "...When he suffered, he did not threaten, but committed himself to him who judges righteously" (1 Peter 2:23, NKJV).

What a tremendous statement! "When he suffered, he threatened not." He never once defended himself against those who mistreated him. He punished no one nor retaliated against anyone.

How unlike us. We threaten when suffering gets unbearable; we defend ourselves; we constantly protect our rights and reputation. Worst of all, we threaten God. It's a very subtle thing, and most of us are not aware of what we are doing. When our prayers go unanswered, when trouble and disaster strike our lives, when it seems as though the Lord has let us down, when we end up lonely and in pain -- we pull back on God. We slack on prayer and Bible reading. We still love him, but we let go of our zeal. We begin to drift, and our faith becomes dull and inactive.

Those responses are all threats against the Lord.

Every time we back off from seeking the Lord with all our hearts, we are threatening him. It's a subtle way of saying, "Lord, I did my best, and you let me down."

The Lord has infinite patience with those of us who hurt. He waits lovingly until we return to his tender care. However, if we refuse to wake up and renew our faith and hope in him, it can become a way of life and a threat to God's faithfulness. Some become so disillusioned, they give in to their lusts and passions. They indulge their desires because the battle seems so hopeless. It's their way of saying, "What's the use? I call on God to help me, to deliver me, but help never comes. I've still got this thing in me after all my tears and prayers."

Our mentality finally comes to this: "I have a right to do it because I've been hurt so badly." It's a threat to God, a way of getting even with him for not answering prayer on our schedule.

Beloved, there is hope! The Lord alone is our keeper. He will not let his children slip or fall. We are held in the palm of his hand. Let us do as Christ did. He "committed himself to him who judges righteously" (1 Peter 2:23). That is to place your life completely in God's hands. Give up your struggle. Quit trying to accomplish anything in your own strength. Commit the keeping of your body and soul to the Lord of Hosts!

Tarfoot · 28-07-25, 14:40

A Spark

A spark is temporary, lasting only a second before going out. A spark has a purpose, though, to ignite things, to get something started. For example, a spark is needed on a gas grill to start the flame that does the cooking. A spark in itself isn't a fire, though; it won't cook the meat.

In order to live in the fullness that God intends for our lives, we need a flame that is fueled continually by the oil of God's compelling grace. David's life shows us the difference. He had the same spiritual experiences that Saul did, being touched and anointed by God's hand. However, the spark that David received was fanned into a flame. "Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day forward. And Samuel rose up and went to Ramah" (1 Samuel 16:13, ESV). This last phrase "from that day on" shows us the difference in David and Saul's lives. Once David received a spark from God, he guarded it, stoked it, and fueled it. He decided, "I want this spark to increase into a burning flame for the Lord."

When God's spark comes, it may soothe us, but it is also meant to create a fire that refines us. The flame of his holiness cleanses us of things that do not belong; and as it burns away the dross of sin, it causes us to hate our compromise. It also stirs in us a passion to be holy so that we say as David did, "Lord, I want to be clean before you and have a right spirit."

Many Christians resist this. Conviction can lead to change, and we may not be willing to change some of our habits or things we covet. David addressed the resistance of his own heart, pleading, "Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit" (Psalm 51:11-12).

Note David's emphasis on obedience in this verse. The apostle Paul could have disobeyed God's direction and gone his own way in missions. In fact, he was chomping at the bit to take the gospel into Asia, but he also spoke of being forbidden by the Holy Spirit to go there. Paul knew that if he proceeded on his own, he would grieve the Holy Spirit. He still would have been saved and loved by God, but he would have quenched the Spirit's power to move in his life.

That's exactly what happened to King Saul. As he kept disobeying, the power of God's Spirit to use him kept diminishing. After a while, Saul no longer heard God's voice or felt the stirring of his Spirit because he had never allowed the initial spark to fan into a cleansing flame. We must not allow this to be our path. We ought to choose to have a heart like David and Paul!

Tarfoot · 29-07-25, 18:53

A Song in Hard Times

"For there those who carried us away captive asked of us a song, and those who plundered us requested mirth, saying, 'Sing us one of the songs of Zion!' How shall we sing the Lord's song in a foreign land?" (Psalm 137:3-4, NKJV).

The people of God were in the hardest place of their lifetime. As they were carried away, their captors required of them a song. There was no life in them anymore, nothing but depression, despair, hopelessness.

Multitudes of Christians are in the same position today. You may be trapped by your circumstances, or the devil is coming at you with an old temptation. You are on the edge of giving up, thinking, "I can't make it. In spite of all my crying and praying, that old bondage is going to hound me forever!"

When Israel fell into Babylonian bondage, their captors cried to them, "Sing for us! Play for us. We've heard all about you and what your God did for you. Now take out your tambourines and bring out your harps. Play us a song. Show us your joy in your God!"

I do not believe this demand was made only in mockery. I believe it was also a pitiful plea. The Babylonians' gods had left them empty and dry. They had no hope, but they had heard Israel singing to their God who had seen them through impossible circumstances. They said, "These people have a God who can open a sea for them. His fire comes down from heaven, and he stands against their enemies. There's got to be something to this God of theirs."

Like all the world, they wanted to see a people who'd endured the same problems they had and faced the same battles they'd faced and despite this, could still sing and shout and hold their faith in the darkest of hours. They needed a testimony. It is important that the children of God, wherever they are, at whatever time, sing out, "God, I believe you, no matter what is happening."

The world is shouting to us, "You can show us a miracle! It isn't the Red Sea opening up that impresses us. We don't need the blind given sight or the lame healed. Can you look at the darkest hour of your life, a situation that's hopeless to all human reasoning, and yet smile with joy, singing praises to God? That's the miracle we want to see."

Tarfoot · 04-08-25, 19:59

Heal My Unbelief

"But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. For let not that man suppose that he will receive anything from the Lord" (James 1:6-7, NKJV).

The world is full of Christians who will not hold on to God's Word. They think it is an innocent thing to sit at the table in the house of God and murmur and complain, as if God doesn't hear. God does hear our murmurings! They are accusations that he does not care, insinuations that he has let us down.

God has warned me not to give voice to nagging doubts and fears, not to my wife, not to friends, not to loved ones, not to colleagues. God says to take those doubts to the cross and say, "Jesus, heal my unbelief. Take it out."

Israel spent forty years in turmoil, backbiting, complaining, bitterness, and jealousy. What a miserable existence they led while claiming to be the children of God, claiming to be holy. That was their testimony, not God's.

You must come to a place where you trust him. If you learn it now, you will sing and shout with praises to your deliverer the next time a crisis comes! Oh, the victory will be there; but more importantly, you will have dealt a deathblow to all doubt, fear, and unbelief.

Where do you start? By looking right into the mirror of God's Word. Consider your words and actions over the last thirty days. Have you been murmuring or complaining? You may answer, "Yes, but I haven't been murmuring at God!" Oh yes, you have. No matter where or to whom you complain, it is all directed at God.

God says, "Trust me, and I'll see you through. Just commit your ways to me." What does that require? Simply this: Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord. Beloved, turn to God today and say, "Lord, I've done everything I know how to do in my situation. I know there's nothing I can do to fix the problem anyway. I'm going to trust you and wait for your victory."

Let God make you a testimony to the world, a witness of his faithfulness. Love him with all your heart right now. Give him all your problems, all your faith, and all your trust!

Tarfoot · 07-08-25, 21:21

Unseal My Lips

When God sparks a fire in us, it is not meant for our benefit alone. It is meant to set us ablaze with zeal for the lost in our nearby communities and around the world. David wrote in the psalms, "Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will return to you. Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, O God of my salvation, and my tongue will sing aloud of your righteousness. O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare your praise" (Psalm 51:13, 15-ESV).

If we allow this flame to burn within us, it will compel us to take the good news beyond our church walls. We'll realize, "This fire burning inside me will not be quenched. Woe is me if I keep it inside!"

We simply cannot contain our zeal when we have been personally cleansed by God and filled with a persistent hunger to have his life dwelling within us. This makes us want to shout his praises to the world. Some of the best Sunday worshipers I know are those who cry out, "Thank you, Jesus, that today my coworker is sitting next to me in the pew experiencing your amazing love."

If we do not have this kind of fire, it will not matter how powerful our church services are. Heavenly flames could rest on our heads and we could all fall on our faces in awe, but those things alone do not show the power of Pentecost. As long as revival is contained in church, it probably isn't revival. If there is a true fire burning, it will move us to create a fire in our city.

Our prayer has to be, "God, if you are going to touch me with a spark, then cause me to speak to sinners. Anoint me to teach them about your love. Send me into the byways with the compelling love of Jesus."

If the fire of God's Holy Spirit is operating in your life, you can know your life is no longer a spark but a torch.

Tarfoot · 09-08-25, 15:22

His Lovingkindness

We are to preach about the Lord's lovingkindness to all mankind. David said, "I have not hidden your righteousness within my heart; I have declared your faithfulness and your salvation; I have not concealed your lovingkindness and your truth from the great assembly" (Psalm 40:10, NKJV).

David not only appropriated this wonderful message for himself, he knew it was sorely needed by the whole congregation and by a hurting world. David was grateful to God for such great love, because he was surrounded by his own failings: "Mine iniquities have taken hold upon me" (Psalm 40:12). It does not matter how badly people have sinned, God still loves. That is why he sent his Son, and that is what we should be preaching to the world!

Can you say with David, "I have not concealed thy lovingkindness from the great congregation"?

Perhaps one of the most quoted and sung verses in all of God's Word is "Because your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise you" (Psalm 63:3). You may ask, "What do you mean, his lovingkindness is better than life?" Life is short! It fades like the grass, which is here one season and gone the next. His lovingkindness will endure forever. A billion years from now, Jesus will be as tender and loving to us as he is now. Others can take your life from you, but they cannot take away his lovingkindness.

The greatest proclamation of his lovingkindness is joyful praise. Stop and think for a moment. God is not mad at you anymore. If you're ready to forsake your sins, you can be forgiven and restored this very moment.

The Word says nothing can come between our Lord and us, no sin, no guilt, no condemning thoughts. You can say, "My life is a blessing to the Lord, and I can rejoice and praise him. I am clean, free, forgiven, justified, sanctified, and redeemed."

If you really understood how tender he is toward you, how patient, how caring, how ready to forgive and bless, you would not be able to contain yourself. You would shout and praise him until you had no voice left.

Beloved, Jesus is coming, and we are ready to go. You have a loving, tender Father who cares about you. He has bottled every tear you have ever shed. He has seen your every need and known your every thought, and he loves you!

Tarfoot · 10-08-25, 20:50

Give It All Away

"Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully" (2 Corinthians 9:6, ESV).

God wants you to obey him even when things are not going your way. If your marriage is hurting, begin to minister to others in need. When your children are in difficult situations, start serving in the children's ministry. When your finances are almost at rock bottom and you don't see any resources coming your way, give whenever the Holy Spirit touches your heart and prompts you to give.

God wants you to obey him, my friends. When you obey him, you will see the windows of heaven open to you. God will not withhold his hand from you because he longs to pour out his blessing on you, to show you his favor.

This is an encouragement to trust God's desire to bless you. I want to see you blessed, and I encourage you to receive the fullness of God's blessing whether you have much or little. God honors that.

Maybe you have only a little bit of time to serve others in the kingdom of God because your job is so demanding or you must travel a lot. You may have little time to give to your church, but take that little bit that you have and begin to pour it out on others. You will find that God will multiply your time and efforts, and you will find yourself with more time to do other things plus more time to be with God.

When you find yourself giving away the smallest of things, being generous like Jesus is generous, then the Holy Spirit will use the simplest, almost foolish things of this world and return a blessing to you. "Give, and it shall be given unto you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap" (Luke 6:38).

Tarfoot · 11-08-25, 19:52

This Poor Man Cried

At the start of Psalm 51, we read that David appealed to the tender, forgiving mercies of God: "Have mercy upon me, O God, according to your lovingkindness; according to the multitude of your tender mercies, blot out my transgressions" (Psalm 51:1, NKJV).

David knew what to do. "This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles" (Psalm 34:6). "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles" (Psalm 34:17).

Dear saint, this is your victory over sin: the absolute confidence that no matter how grievously you have sinned or fallen, you serve a Lord who is ready to forgive, anxious to heal, and possesses more lovingkindness toward you than you could ever need.

The devil will come to you and say, "If you get off the hook too easily, you'll jump right back into sin." He will make you feel miserable, unworthy to lift your hands in praise to God or even to pick up his Word.

Here is your weapon. Cry out as David did, with all of your heart. Go to God, and say to him, "Lord, you love me. I know you are ready to forgive me. I confess!"

At that very moment, you are clear with God. You don't have to pay for your sin. God loves you so much that he gave his Son, who has already paid for it. A merciful, loving advocate is yearning to help and deliver you. "My little children, these things I write to you, so that you may not sin. And if anyone sins, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous" (1 John 2:1).

Tarfoot · 13-08-25, 23:19

Get to Know Jesus

After meeting the ten lepers (see Luke 17:11-19), Jesus and the apostles probably had something to eat and were far up the road beyond the village. Suddenly, they heard someone shouting. Looking back, they saw a man running toward them. Perhaps it took a moment to recognize him.

It was the Samaritan leper. When he came up to Jesus, he fell prostrate at his feet and broke out in praise and thanksgiving. Out of his innermost being poured adoration for the Son of the living God, "You're the Son of God! Glory!"

Jesus looked down at him and said, "Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? Were there not any found who returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?" (Luke 17:17-18).

Beloved, that is the question Jesus is still asking today. Of the many multitudes he has cleansed and made whole, only a remnant are drawn back to him. So where are all the others? They are in the same place the nine healed lepers ended up: lost in the church, swallowed up by religion.

I believe in the Bible; and if the statistic from this story in Luke's gospel is accurate, ninety percent of those who are touched by Jesus end up going back to some dead, dry church. They never get into Jesus because they get lost in religion.

The nine lepers were anxious to get on with their lives and back to their families. They said, "I want my self-respect back. I want to go to the synagogue again and study about the coming Messiah."

You may say, "What's wrong with all that? Isn't a man commanded to provide for his household? Doesn't David speak of meditating on the deep things of God? Aren't Christians supposed to be motivated to work diligently, to do exactly what the nine lepers did? Besides, didn't Jesus tell them to go directly to the priest?"

Yes, that is all true, but it all becomes meaningless if you do not first get to know Jesus! Without being close to him, all the Bible studies and church activities are hollow. First, we must return to Jesus and learn to hear his heart.

Tarfoot · 19-08-25, 02:37

Therefore, holy brothers and sisters, who share in the heavenly calling, fix your thoughts on Jesus, whom we acknowledge as our apostle and high priest.
He was faithful to the one who appointed him, just as Moses was faithful in all God's house.
Jesus has been found worthy of greater honor than Moses, just as the builder of a house has greater honor than the house itself.
For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything.
"Moses was faithful as a servant in all God's house," bearing witness to what would be spoken by God in the future.
But Christ is faithful as the Son over God's house. And we are his house, if indeed we hold firmly to our confidence and the hope in which we glory.

A Rest for the People of God
So, as the Holy Spirit says: "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion, during the time of testing in the wilderness,
where your ancestors tested and tried me, though for forty years they saw what I did.
That is why I was angry with that generation; I said, 'Their hearts are always going astray, and they have not known my ways.'
So I declared on oath in my anger, 'They shall never enter my rest.'"
See to it, brothers and sisters, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called "Today," so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.
We have come to share in Christ, if indeed we hold our original conviction firmly to the very end.
As has just been said: "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts as you did in the rebellion."
Who were they who heard and rebelled? Were they not all those Moses led out of Egypt?
And with whom was he angry for forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose bodies perished in the wilderness?
And to whom did God swear that they would never enter his rest if not to those who disobeyed?
So we see that they were not able to enter, because of their unbelief.

Tarfoot · 20-08-25, 17:25

Under His Control

Men's hearts are failing them for fear over the things happening on this earth (see Luke 21:26). Even devout Christians are getting caught up in this wave of fear and anxiety about the future. People are afraid the ship is sinking. Mankind is yearning for security.

Does it all sound scary? Certainly, everything appears to be falling apart, as far as the natural eye can discern. In his honest moments, even the skeptic must admit that something apocalyptic is taking place in the world.

Along with a vision of calamities, God has given me a very special message of hope for all true believers. I desperately questioned God about all the things I saw coming. I asked him to show me how Christians can do all they have to do in a limited time when so many are going into hiding. How can Christians keep fear out of their hearts? How can they face all the news reports and anticipate all the calamities and disasters without being afraid for their homes and children? Do they abdicate and turn this old world over to the devil and let him have his way? Do they pay off all their bills, salt away some reserves in the bank, then just try to ride it out while hoping that a better day will come? Do they buy a farm or a piece of land and flee to the country, hoping they can escape the coming tragedies? Do they let their motivation die and surrender to fear? Do they abandon all their dreams and ambitions and become hermits?

Dear friend, hear what the Holy Spirit spoke to me. It was just five little words, but they were so powerful that they awakened in me a glorious new hope and faith.

Here are those five little words: God has everything under control.

That is right. Everything is under control! You and I and everything that touches us are under his control. No matter how things look in this drunken world, all things are still working together for good to everyone who loves God and are the called according to his purpose (see Romans 8:28).

The future looks evil and foreboding, but David said, "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me" (Psalms 23:4, NKJV). The future is under God's control, so we need not fear.

Tarfoot · 22-08-25, 23:19

God Is at Work

A key message for believers today is that God has the future all preprogrammed. He knows the exact moment Christ will return. The final tribulation, the judgment, and the battle of Armageddon are all on his calendar.

The God who controls all of heaven and earth said, "Behold, the nations are as a drop in a bucket, and are counted as the small dust on the scales... All nations before him are as nothing, and they are counted by him less than nothing and worthless" (Isaiah 40:15, 17, NKJV).

God wants us to keep working until the return of Christ. That simply means that we are to work as though the end will never come and live as though it were coming tomorrow.

God is still keeping count of the hairs on our heads. He is still counting the sparrows that fall, still hearing petitions before they are asked, and still answering before being called. He is still giving abundantly more than we can ask or think (See Matthew 6:25-34). So why be afraid?

Prepared Christians, wake up! Everything is under control, and God is at work. He is saving, healing, baptizing, and getting his house in order. To fear is to blaspheme. We are commanded to encourage ourselves in the Lord and to begin to sing and rejoice as we see the final hour approaching. Someone may ask, "How can I rejoice when I see this old sin-cursed world falling apart?"

My answer is the Bible's answer. "For we know that the whole creation groans and labors with birth pangs together until now. Not only that, but we also who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for the adoption, the redemption of our body" (Romans 8:22-23).

A woman in labor may scream because of pain, yet in her heart she rejoices because of the new birth taking place. The kingdom of God is coming. The kingdom of Satan is falling. So the Christian can say with confidence, "God has everything under control!"

Tarfoot · 24-08-25, 21:47

Facing Difficult Days

"Understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless...lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people" (2 Timothy 3:1-5, ESV).

Paul is speaking here of dedicated churchgoers but describes them as having only a form of godliness. Paul said these Christians were "always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth" (2 Timothy 3:7). In other words, they listened to all gospel teachings but never took them to heart. That made them powerless, Paul said, because they "opposed the truth" (see 2 Timothy 3:8).

We may never face the same trials that the New Testament believers did, but God still gives us New Testament power. We'll surely face trials of our own because we are not immune to what is coming on the world, but those hardships can produce in us a power like we have never seen before.

That is why we can't afford to be normal in our faith any longer. Think about the fast-growing number of nonbelievers in our world. Each one represents a soul headed to hell, someone for whom Jesus died. Those numbers alone call us to rise above "normal" Christianity, to proclaim Christ's gospel without fear or hindrance. That requires his power, which cannot be achieved or obtained on our own merits; it is received only through his grace.

I have paraphrased Leonard Ravenhill many times, but this comment of his bears repeating: "Christianity today is so subnormal that if any Christian began to act like a normal New Testament Christian, he would be considered abnormal."

Are you not only hearing God's Word but doing it? Or is there a disparity between Christ's power and your life? Pray with me, "Lord, I'm tired of settling for normal Christianity. Merge my life with your heavenly power. I am an empty vessel. Fill me with your power! Whatever it costs, Lord, lead me where you want me to go." Pray this, and you will see his power released in your life.

Tarfoot · 25-08-25, 20:10

A New World Is Coming

The Bible says that scoffers will appear in the last days, mocking the message that Jesus Christ is going to return to set up a new kingdom. Mockers are saying, "Where is Jesus? I don't see any evidence that he is coming. Everything continues as it has from the beginning!"

If you were to try to convince these scoffers that Jesus is coming to purge the earth with fire and set up a kingdom of eternal righteousness, they would call you insane. Many ridicule the very idea of a second coming of Christ. Without batting an eye, though, these same mockers turn around and claim that a "new world order" is coming.

Such scoffers have bought into a lie from hell. Satan always manufactures a counterfeit just before the real thing comes. He knows King Jesus is about to return and that his new world is at the door. The devil wants to keep his own children deceived by promoting a fantasy world and every false hope. Now he has concocted a new, demonic doctrine of a coming new age to keep people from accepting the reality of the coming Christ.

The new age counterfeit in my time has been the so-called "Age of Aquarius." The eleventh constellation has to move into its final position in the sky, and it will supposedly bring a "new world order."

Secularists say this new world order is just about to dawn. They predict a catastrophic calamity will occur, and a new world order will arise out of the chaos, ushering in a society of love, understanding, and world peace. All diseases will be cured. Wars will cease. Poverty will be no more. The only Christ that will exist will be a Christ-consciousness, a worldwide mindset of brotherhood. Self-love will be king, and pleasure will be the focus of all.

I have bad news for all such new age scoffers. I am sorry, but you have been hoodwinked by the devil. Oh, there is a new world coming, all right. Every kingdom of this world will soon become our Lord's, and all his enemies will become his footstool. Christ is coming back to establish his holy kingdom, and scoffers will not have any part in it. "Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells" (2 Peter 3:13).

Tarfoot · 28-08-25, 15:57

A Perfect Covenant

"Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people" (Hebrews 2:17, ESV).

I've always wondered about one phrase in this verse, "he had to." This passage refers to Jesus, of course. Why would Jesus have to do anything? He's God. We read that he chose to come to earth, chose to heal, chose to love everyone around him. So, why does this say he had to become flesh and serving as a living sacrifice for our sins? Couldn't he just as easily have declared from heaven, "I'll send angels to bring redemption to humankind?" Here is one of the few instances in the Bible where the Lord is engaging in a commanded endeavor. Why?

We all know that under the New Covenant our sins are covered by Christ's gift of grace. What is a covenant? It is an agreement between two or more parties where each is required to fulfill certain terms. There are many kinds of covenants, including a marriage covenant, where two people become one entity. Legal contracts are covenants for businesses when two owners merge their efforts so that both sides benefit. Peace treaties between nations are covenants, where warring sides agree to cease hostilities and benefit one another in other ways.

Throughout the Bible, we see God making covenants with his people. In each case, he says, "Here is what I'll do on my end. As you keep your end, here are the blessings and benefits that will come to you." God has always kept his end of these covenants, yet man has never been able to. He has continually failed to uphold his end in every covenant.

The Lord foresaw all this. From the very beginning, he made plans to put into place a perfect covenant that could not be broken. He would enact a covenant like none before it, one with a unique provision: a surety that neither side would ever break the covenant.

He did it by making the covenant not with man but with Jesus. Many Christians think the New Covenant is exclusively an agreement between God and man, but it is not; it is a covenant between the Father and his Son. Christ was who God chose to make this covenant with, not Adam, not Noah, not you, not me. Jesus himself is the guarantee that the covenant is being kept. Every other man would fail at this, but Jesus keeps the covenant perfectly. That is our surety!

Tarfoot · 29-08-25, 20:59

The Day of the Lord Is Coming

When the day of the Lord comes, none of the following will be allowed to enter: "But the cowardly, unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death" (Revelation 21:8, NKJV).

Think of the horror and deception of what secular people put their hope in. Millions today are totally convinced that a leader who is not Christ will come to give them hope. They believe that soon they will finally have peace and be fulfilled; that all guilt, fear and condemnation will vanish; that sin will no longer haunt them; that they will be able to freely indulge in homosexuality and fornication with no penalty, disease or retribution. They assure themselves, "Away with born-again religion. Away with all the condemnation that causes people to feel bad about themselves. We're going to have a new world where we can do as we please. No one will bother us or upset us."

They are about to face a tragic awakening. When they find themselves in a godless hell, a mocking devil will gleefully proclaim, "Welcome to your new world order!"

It is no wonder hell will be a place of weeping, wailing and gnashing of teeth. There the lie will be exposed in an eternal furnace of fire. Suddenly, the damned will cry, "I've been deceived! The world leaders and freedom that I was convinced was coming is an everlasting hell." The horror of that deception will continue to grow in intensity throughout all eternity.

Multitudes in America are turning to the occult, Hollywood executives, Wall Street tycoons, Broadway actors, government leaders, people from all walks of life. They are embracing the secular world's false gospels: Scientology, channeling, satanism, voodoo, astrology, all kinds of demonic religions of the east. They are blind and deceived, believing a lie.

The apostle Peter tells us the truth about the coming new world and what it will be like. "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the works that are in it will be burned up" (2 Peter 3:10). The present world is going to dissolve. Indeed, the Lord will unleash his reserved fire to purge both the heavens and the earth. God's new kingdom and world will come then, and his children who's hope has been in him will rejoice. There will be no room for corruption. The new world will be filled with voices glorifying God!

Tarfoot · 01-09-25, 00:21

Stir Up Our Minds

"Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of reminder)" (2 Peter 3:1, NKJV). Peter's message about the end of the present world and the beginning of the new earth is meant to stir up a hope in us and keep us from being anchored to this world.

This is the truth meant to 'stir up our minds' "Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness" (2 Peter 3:11). All that people hold precious, all that they labor a lifetime to keep and enjoy, is going to dissolve in a sudden burning.

Try to imagine it. All Wall Street firms, corporate offices, banks, computer headquarters--gone! The United Nations will vanish. State and federal capitol buildings will burn to oblivion. Fort Knox and all its gold will disappear. There will not be any more manufacturing plants, skyscrapers, bridges, tunnels, airplanes, or trains. There will not even be any ashes left. God's Word clearly says that all these things shall be burned up or "dissolved".

The Greek word for "dissolved" means "to loosen, break up, and melt down." In other words, God is going to break up the party. He will pry people loose from everything they lust after and then melt it all in intense heat.

Many Christians get too comfortable in this world and end up turning away from the Lord. Prosperity, acceptance, or recognition captures their hearts and minds.

I want to share with you a truth that will help you rejoice if the secular workplace never fully accepts you. If you are devoted to Jesus, it doesn't matter where you work--a bank, in a school, cleaning the streets, wherever--you will experience some rejection, condescension, or misunderstanding. You may receive little or no credit for what you do. You may be persecuted, ridiculed, talked about behind your back. You realize you will never be "one of the guys" or part of the "the girls" group. So you never feel comfortable or truly secure. Why is this so?

It is all the Lord's doing. He permits it so you will not become hooked on this transient world.

Tarfoot · 03-09-25, 23:38

The Final Harvest

"And it shall be that if you earnestly obey my commandments which I command you today, to love the Lord your God and serve him with all your heart and with all your soul, then I will give you the rain for your land in its season, the early rain and the latter rain, that you may gather in your grain, your new wine, and your oil"(Deuteronomy 11:13-14, NKJV).

The planting and harvest seasons in Israel were just the opposite of ours. The first rains, which softened the ground, fell from October to the end of December, just before planting season. The last rains fell from March through April, just prior to harvest, and those rains ripened the harvest.

It is important to note that these two outpourings always had to do with the harvest, "that you may gather in"... Beloved, if you want to judge any move of the Holy Spirit to discern if it is of God or of flesh, then use this criterion: The Spirit's work is always focused on the harvest of souls.

No matter what kind of manifestations you see in a so-called revival, it is not a true move of God unless it is focused on the harvest. The Holy Ghost rains always fall to produce an ingathering of souls.

God poured out his Spirit in the former rain at Pentecost to prepare and soften the ground for the gospel seeds to be sown. Spirit-filled sowers were sent out from the Upper Room that day to Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and the uttermost parts of the earth to make disciples of Jesus Christ.

The church has now seen almost 2,000 years of sowing and growing, and it is harvest time! All who have died in Christ up to now represent the first-fruits or the early harvest, but Zechariah prophesies a final harvest, and that is the reason Jesus has not yet come (see Zechariah 12:10). The Lord has been waiting patiently for his final, mighty harvest of the earth.

"Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain" (James 5:7).

31-05-25, 23:48	#1601
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Where Are Your Accusers? Christ delivered the beatitudes to a fractured and hopeless body of believers: "Blessed are you who are poor in spirit, who mourn, and who are broken. You are blessed not because you've done anything to earn it, but because I am with you" (see Matthew 5:2-11). What a revelation! We are blessed simply because Jesus is with us. The blessing of Immanuel, "God with us" (see Matthew 1:23) takes on a whole new meaning in light of Isaiah's prophecy: "I will...give you as a covenant to the people...to apportion the desolate heritages" (Isaiah 49:8, ESV). The blessing of Christ's presence was going to silence all accusing voices. This silencing happened literally in the woman caught in adultery (see John 8:1-11). The religious leaders brought her to Jesus and demanded that he accuse her, but secretly, they had another reason for bringing her before Jesus. They wanted to accuse him. Have you ever heard Christians accuse God of something? I hear it from people all the time in my pastoral counseling: "God isn't working in my life. I pray faithfully, but he doesn't answer. I've done everything I can, but he still hasn't set me free." This is exactly what Satan wants us to do: accuse God in our hearts. It creates an endless cycle of bondage. Jesus answered the adulterous woman's accusers and his own. "He stood up and said to them, 'Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her'" (John 8:7). God was no longer the one being accused. Jesus had turned the spotlight where it belonged, on their own sin. They responded by going away one by one. Note what Jesus then said, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" (John 8:10). Today, Jesus says to us, "Where are your accusers? Where are the voices that say, 'You're sinful, hopeless, a failure?' They're gone! I am your righteousness now, and I have silenced them all." When these voices continue to scream and shout in our ears, we will hear another voice above them all that says, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me" (John 10:27). Christ's voice will speak to us, "I have silenced your accusers." His truth cuts through all clamor and din with his peace, which passes all understanding. __________________ 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 Last edited by Tarfoot; 31-05-25 at 23:58.

01-06-25, 15:48	#1602
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You The Gospel of Love and Truth If there are two concepts that are under attack more than anything else in our culture, they are love and truth. However, it's not these concepts that are under attack; rather, it's Christ who is under attack because Christ is love and Christ is truth. What we must realize is that truth and love are inextricably linked. They are undivorceable. If you think you can love without truth, you are deceived. The apostle Paul said, "Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ" (Ephesians 4:15, ESV). We must realize and remember that the truth is love. Sometimes, love is encouragement. Sometimes, love is correction and rebuke. At times, love is about saying "no". However, in God's economy, love is doing what is right for someone, regardless of the personal cost to you. Love is not tolerance. It is not giving in to other people's sins. When someone says, "Don't all roads lead to God?" Love is looking at that person in the most compassionate and humble way and responding, "Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through him" (see John 14:6). The truth is love! The apostle Paul writes to the Galatians, "I am astonished that you are so quickly deserting him who called you in the grace of Christ and are turning to a different gospel... As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed. For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God?... If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ" (Galatians 1:6-10). In these verses, Paul draws a line in the sand because if we get the gospel wrong, we get everything wrong. As Christians, we must proclaim the whole truth. There is no gospel without preaching sin and repentance, without talking about heaven and hell. The gospel is not about good people working hard to do better. It is about being dead in sin and trespass and being supernaturally raised to life by Jesus Christ through the power of his Spirit. It's a spiritual rebirth that comes through faith in Christ, and we must present it in its fullness. __________________ 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

02-06-25, 23:24	#1603
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You We Are Not Condemned "Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God" (Revelation 12:10, ESV). Satan's accusations are one thing Jesus came to deal with as our living, breathing covenant. God did not send a theology to crush the lies of Satan. He sent Jesus. The earliest prophecy in Genesis stated that Satan would bruise the Messiah's heel but Jesus would crush the devil's head (see Genesis 3:15). Two thousand years ago, Jesus brought that reality into our lives. Occasionally, I wake up in the middle of the night with anxiety. It's as if I've done something wrong, but I don't know what. That feeling comes from the accuser. He whispers, "You're no good, worthless, a burden to others. Look at your history and how many times you've messed up. You'll never change." Our relationship with that voice began in the Garden of Eden, but when Jesus came, he declared, "That ends right now." He added an amazing reassurance, saying, "Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father" (John 5:45). It is absolutely essential that we build on the firm foundation of knowing that God does not accuse us. This foundation is not based on law, accusations, or despair, but rather on the glorious and gracious action of God himself. When he hears an accusation against us, he tells Jesus, "Crush it." In that moment, we will hear the voice of the Holy Spirit saying, "Do not listen to that lie. It has been destroyed on the cross." God does not accuse you because his Son has set you free. Jesus said to the woman caught in adultery, "Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more" (John 8:11). The Bible makes it clear that we are going to sin. However, when we do, the voice we hear will be the voice of the Holy Spirit. He brings conviction for our transgressions; yet it is a hopeful conviction, one that leads to joyful repentance rather than despair. Friend, we have been given Jesus, and in our time of discouragement, we will hear his voice above all others saying, "Neither do I condemn you." May God supply you with his grace to build on that foundation and rejoice! __________________ 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

04-06-25, 00:01	#1604
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You The Joy of the Lord is Our Strength "And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength." - Nehemiah 8:10b In the book of Nehemiah, when the Israelites returned from captivity and rebuilt Jerusalem's walls, we find in the first verses of Nehemiah 8 that they convened to have the law read publicly. A priest and scribe, Ezra, read, and the people wept bitterly upon hearing the words of the law. However, Nehemiah, Ezra, and the Levites encouraged them to be happy and said to them, "And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength." (Nehemiah 8:10, ESV). Today, we can also take heart from the fact that our strength lies in the Lord. Joy is not merely a feeling; it is a firm belief grounded in our walk with God. When we accept the joy of knowing and loving the Lord, we are strengthened by Him to make that next move in overcoming the hindrances of life, which always divert and discourage us from living according to the Lord's plan and purposes for our lives. This joy of the Lord transcends circumstances and helps us to overcome fear, discouragement, and doubt. As you go about your day, seek the Lord. When you are facing discouraging circumstances, pause for a moment and consider His goodness. Friends, we must rejoice in the Lord and be grateful for the blessings that surround us. I pray you invite the Holy Spirit to work in your life, filling your heart with His joy, transforming you spiritually, and reviving your spirit as you trust the Lord and receive all He has for you. Today, I pray that you choose joy and lean into the power of the Lord. Remember: He delights in you and calls on You to trust in Him. While reading and preparing to write to you today, two songs came to mind that I would like to share with you: a Children's Song we sing in Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, "The Joy of the Lord," and the second is a traditional Hymn, "Only Trust Him." May these songs and God's Word be used in your heart to encourage others and spread His love. __________________ 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

06-06-25, 03:22	#1605
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Enthroned as King The apostle Paul writes that when Jesus comes again, "He will manifest in his own time, he who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings and Lord of lords" (1 Timothy 6:15, NKJV). Paul is saying, in essence, "When Christ comes, he is going to show everybody who is Lord!" It doesn't matter what things look like on the outside. Everything may seem out of control, and it may look as if the devil has taken power. However, the truth is that God has put all things under Jesus's feet, and he remains the king over everything. "For by him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through him and for him" (Colossians 1:16). This passage proves that almighty God has appointed Jesus Christ as Lord, and all dominion has been given into his hands. Yet all around we see our society and government dethroning Christ, refusing to acknowledge his authority and kingship. We are removing God from our schools and courts and ignoring him in the making of our laws. Now, we are reaping a terrible harvest. I believe America's rejection of Christ's lordship is the reason behind all the bloodshed, violence, racial hatred, moral decay, drug abuse, and outbreak of deadly sexual diseases in our society. Lawmakers, educators, and the media have made God an unspeakable subject. However, my concern goes beyond America's rejection of Jesus's authority. I believe the problem of Christ's dethroning is much worse and much more tragic because it is happening in his Church. It's true! Our exalted Lord is being dethroned in churches throughout the land and in the lives of a multitude of believers. It is understandable that ungodly people would want to dethrone Christ. But how it must grieve God to see Christ dethroned by those who call themselves by his name. Beloved, scripture tells us that God the Father has enthroned Christ as king over all nations and all creation and as Lord over the Church. "He is the head of the body, the church...that in all things he may have the preeminence" (Colossians 1:18). __________________ 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

07-06-25, 21:38	#1606
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Cultivating a Spiritual Legacy The word cultivate is used in farming. It is what farmers do when they plant seeds in the right soil, pull weeds, and expect a day of harvest. As mothers and fathers, we cultivate an environment in our homes to give emotional and spiritual growth to our children. A place of faith and trust in God. We come with an attitude of prayer, asking God to help nurture a legacy around us. How are you doing to cultivate your home, your marriage, and an environment that doesn't just know the Bible and a few verses but believes the Word of God? Have you created a life of prayer and faith around you? In 1 Samuel 1, we are introduced to a woman named Hannah, who is deeply distraught because she is unable to have children. She is in a place of deep, deep anguish and heartache. Scripture says, "She was deeply distressed and prayed to the Lord and wept bitterly" (1 Samuel 1:10, ESV). Hannah prayed to the Lord and made a vow that if he gave her a son, she would give him in service to the Lord. So she dedicated him to the Lord's purposes and his kingdom (see 1 Samuel 1:11). Like Hannah, God often works through our brokenness and difficulty to produce something for his kingdom. In times of brokenness and distress, God will stir our hearts to pray a prayer of faith and believe God for our families, children, and our nation. Today, I want you to know that if you are walking with God and cultivating an environment of faith, he will answer. Perhaps it's a prayer for biological children or grandchildren who are far away from God. Perhaps it's a prayer for God to bring biological or spiritual children into your life. Your situation may seem impossible, but I urge you to pray like Hannah, who poured out her soul to the Lord. The idea of dedicating our children to the Lord originates from this story. Through prayer, Hannah broke through to God from a place of desperation. As Christians, we must cultivate a spiritual life that will help our children, spouses, and families walk with God. It is an act of worship and our highest calling to cultivate an environment that fosters spiritual growth in our homes! __________________ 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

09-06-25, 23:31	#1607
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Faith for Dry Bones In Ezekiel, God showed the prophet a valley full of bones and asked, "Son of man, can these bones live?" (Ezekiel 37:3, ESV). God asks the same of us today. Can the dry bones in your situation come to life? Can your rebellious child be revived? Can your unsaved loved ones be brought to Christ? It is a question of faith. Do you believe this can happen? It is also a question of desire. Do you want this to happen? Are you grieved by the dry bones in your life? If your answer is no, that's a sign of dryness, a lack of spiritual passion over the dark condition of the world. Here was Ezekiel's answer: "O Lord God, you know" (Ezekiel 37:3). This was a response of trust that said, "Lord, only you know these things. You have given me a vision of horrific death. Are you suggesting these bones can live? Is it really possible?" The very question awakened Ezekiel's faith. It was what God was waiting to hear, and he does the same with us to stimulate our faith. "Then he said to me, 'Prophesy over these bones'" (Ezekiel 37:4). Once our faith is engaged and he has stirred our faith, he calls us to action. He asks us to address our situation of dry bones in faith. We are to speak life into our families, believing that God empowers our words. We are to speak life on our jobs, knowing that he holds us in his hand no matter how dark the environment is. To do this, God must breathe his life into our being: "I will...put breath in you, and you shall live, and you shall know that I am the Lord" (Ezekiel 37:6). God did just that for Ezekiel. The prophet testifies, "So I prophesied as I was commanded" (Ezekiel 37:7). Can you say this about your walk with God? Have you said everything the Lord wants you to say, even the difficult things? That is the power of the proclamation of the gospel. What happened when Ezekiel prophesied in faith? Ezekiel witnessed all the dry bones on the valley floor come together to form living bodies. I will lay sinews upon you, and will cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and you shall live, and you shall know that I am the Lord" (Ezekiel 37:6) __________________ 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

10-06-25, 23:34	#1608
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Remember and Return "Remember the law of my servant Moses, the statutes and rules that I commanded him at Horeb for all Israel." - Malachi 4:4 Amidst distractions and uncertainty, Malachi 4:4 reminds us of the importance of remembering and living out the Lord's commandments, even as Malachi warns that the prophetic voice of the Lord will soon go silent for 400 years. This verse serves as a reminder that God's laws provide a divine blueprint for our lives, leading us to a transformed relationship with Christ. When we reflect on the lessons Moses learned, we recall the covenant between God and His people, which is characterized by love and guidance. As we meditate on this Scripture, let us consider how we can apply its teachings in our daily lives. When we remember and embrace God's laws, we are encouraged by the Holy Spirit to align our lives with the Lord. This calls us to have hearts of obedience, not out of duty, but out of love and gratitude for the grace we receive through our relationship with Jesus. We find that every commandment guides us toward an intimate relationship with God and an understanding of the mission and purpose of our lives. I pray and encourage you to find a way, that works for you and your schedule, to commit to studying, reading, and meditating on the Word of God today and every day. Invite the Holy Spirit to assist you in reading and studying God's Word to transform your life. As you follow His teachings, you will discover the power and strength to overcome your difficulties through Christ, guidance to make godly choices, and the tools to serve others in His name. Friends, remember that obeying God's commands aligns us with Him and leads to greater joy, peace, and contentment as we are drawn closer to the heart of God. I hope and pray that you embrace His ways and His Word so that your path may be bright. Take a moment to reflect on your relationship with the Lord. Here are two questions to consider as you start reflecting on your personal relationship with Jesus: Have you wandered away from the truth found in God's Word? Do distractions and stress dull your spiritual hunger? If you find yourself away from the Lord, call out to Him today. God's call is clear, beloved: Remember and return. His promises still stand, and His heart longs to walk closely with you once more. "Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your heart as in the rebellion" (Hebrews 3:15). As you read and pray over these prayer points, may God use them in your life to advance faith, faith, and freedom. 21-Day Matthew Family Bible Challenge Read: Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Matthew 4:4; 2 Timothy 3:14-17; Acts 17:11 Pray for families as they read the Gospel of Matthew daily together over the next twenty-one days. Pray that the Lord would use this time to strengthen families, heal hurting or broken families, and reignite a passion for God and His Word in homes across the country. Pray that this Bible Reading Challenge would ignite a passion for spending time in God's Word that lasts beyond the 21 days of the challenge. May the seeds that are planted during this Family Bible Challenge lead to a generation of believers who loves the Lord their God with all their heart, mind, soul, and strength. Pray for those family members without a relationship with Jesus to come to Christ during these twenty-one days. __________________ 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

11-06-25, 21:14	#1609
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Pray First! Scripture makes it clear that the answer to everything in our lives is prayer mixed with faith. The apostle Paul writes, "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God" (Philippians 4:6, NKJV). Paul is telling us to seek the Lord in every area of our lives and to thank him ahead of time for hearing us. Paul emphasizes that we must always pray first, not as a last resort. Jesus tells us, "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you" (Matthew 6:33). We are to go to the Lord first! Our ministry receives heart-wrenching letters from many broken Christians. Families are breaking up; people who walked faithfully with Christ for years live in fear and defeat. Each person has been overcome by something: sin, depression, worldliness, covetousness. Year after year, their problems seem to worsen. Yet, what shocks me most about their letters is that very few of these Christians ever mention prayer. They turn to tapes, books, counselors, call-in radio programs, and various therapies, but rarely to prayer. Why is it so hard for Christians to seek God for their desperate needs during times of crisis? After all, the Bible stands as one long testimony that God hears the cries of his children and answers them with tender love. "The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their cry"(Psalm 34:15). "The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles" (Psalm 34:17). "Now this is the confidence that we have in him, that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. And if we know that he hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of him" (1 John 5:14-15). "And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive" (Matthew 21:22). Beloved, reflect on these promises in scripture. They are overwhelming evidence of God's care. Today, seek the Lord in prayer! __________________ 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

12-06-25, 19:56	#1610
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You The light of the gospel shines brightly in the darkness When we look at the darkness in our world, it's easy to become discouraged. But as Christians, you and I have tremendous hope! Not only does the increasing darkness mean that Jesus is coming soon, but we can take courage in this great truth: As the world grows darker, the light of the gospel shines more brightly! God didn't leave us here on this earth to worry and complain about the state of our culture. He called us to shine the light of Christ. How do we do that? In Colossians 4:5-6, Paul gave us these simple instructions: "Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person." We shine the light of the gospel through our conduct and our speech. As Christians, we are to conduct our relationships in a way that makes people say, "I want what you have." We ought to be the best neighbors, friends, and employees we can be, so that when unbelievers see the joy we have in following God, they want to know more about faith in Christ. But it's impossible to lead anyone to Christ by conduct alone. Some Christians think, I'll just share Christ through my actions so I don't risk offending anyone with my words. But no one can understand how to be saved only by observing the way you live. Words are always necessary to share the gospel. In this passage, Paul gave us two pointers for shining the light of Christ with our words: "Let your speech always be with grace." There's no reason to be arrogant or brash toward unbelievers. Luke 4:22 says of Jesus, "Gracious words . . . were falling from His lips." The gospel may be offensive to some unbelievers, but we don't have to be offensive in sharing it. "Seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person." Salt enhances flavor and creates thirst. We do the same by tailoring our message to people's interests and needs. When Jesus talked to an educated Jew, He used an illustration from the Old Testament (John 3). But when He spoke with a Samaritan getting water from a well, He offered her "living water" to satisfy her spiritual thirst (John 4). If you and I are going to make a difference in this dark world, we must be ready to shine the light of Christ with our actions and words. I encourage you to pray, as Paul did, "that God will open up to [you] a door for the word, so that [you] may speak forth the mystery of Christ" (Colossians 4:3). Be warned: This is a prayer the Lord loves to answer! Think about the people you see often: your neighbor, your friend, your coworker, the checkout person at the supermarket, and so on. If you want to shine the light of the gospel in this dark world, then start by simply having a conversation. The doors God opens for sharing the gospel may be subtle. It's unlikely that someone will ask you, "How can I go to heaven?" But they might reveal they're struggling in their marriage. You should be empathetic, but you can also share the lasting solution to their problem-a relationship with Jesus Christ. Or someone might vent their frustrations about politics. You can say, "I'm concerned about our country too. But may I share why no political leader can solve our deepest problems, and why I'm looking to another Leader?" Use that opportunity to point to the hope 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 Last edited by Tarfoot; 12-06-25 at 20:03.

14-06-25, 01:14	#1611
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Costly Love When I use the word "lukewarm" to describe a person's love for Jesus, I don't mean he is cold toward the Lord. Rather, I mean his love is inexpensive, not costly. When Jesus addressed the church in Ephesus in Revelation 2, he first commended them for all they had done. He acknowledged that they had labored hard in the faith, hating sin and compromise, refusing to accept false doctrines, never fainting or giving up when persecuted, and always taking a stand for the gospel. Yet Christ said he held one thing against them: they had forsaken their fervent, costly love for him. "Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love" (Revelation 2:4, NKJV). Somehow, amid all their good works, they had left behind their loving, disciplined walk with Jesus. He told them, "You have left your first love and forsaken the costly discipline of coming into my presence to commune with me." Jesus was speaking here of believers who started with a burning love for him, not to cold, nominal Christians who never loved him in the first place. He was saying, "It's possible for someone who once had a heart of love for me to let their zeal become lukewarm to the point of seldom praying at all." Think about how insulting this must be to Christ, our bridegroom. What kind of marriage can there be when a husband and wife have no private times of intimacy? That is what Jesus was talking about here. He wants moments with you all to himself. It does not matter how loudly you praise the Lord in church, how much you claim to love him, or how many tears you shed. You can give generously, love others, hate sin, and rebuke wrongdoers, but if your heart is not continually drawn to Christ's presence, you have lost your love for him. All our works are in vain unless we return to our bright, burning love for Jesus. We must realize that loving Jesus isn't just about doing things. It involves the daily discipline of maintaining a relationship, which will cost us something. __________________ 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 Last edited by Tarfoot; 14-06-25 at 01:21.

14-06-25, 16:08	#1612
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You A Sacrifice of Prayer Christians who neglect prayer have distorted their priorities. Many believers pledge to pray whenever they can find the time. Yet, seeking Christ becomes less important to them each week than washing the car, cleaning the house, visiting friends, eating out, shopping, or watching sports events. They simply don't make time to pray. People were no different in the days of Noah and Lot. Their top priorities were eating and drinking, buying and selling, marrying, and caring for their families. They had no time to heed the messages of God's impending judgment, so no one was prepared when judgment fell. Nothing has changed over the centuries. For many Christians today, God remains at the bottom of their priority list, while income, security, pleasure, and family are at the top. Beloved, the Lord does not want your leftovers, those little bits and pieces of time when you only have a moment to make a quick prayer request. That isn't a sacrifice of prayer. The prophet Malachi wrote, "And when you offer the blind as a sacrifice, is it not evil? And when you offer the lame and sick, is it not evil? Offer it then to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you favorably?" (Malachi 1:8, NKJV). Malachi was saying, "You're bringing just any old farm animals to sacrifice in God's presence, careless, thoughtless, secondhand gifts. Try giving those kinds of offerings to your governor, and see what happens!" God expected his people to go through their flocks carefully, examining every animal and choosing the most perfect specimen for sacrifice to him. Likewise, God expects the same from us today. He wants our quality and unrushed time to be a priority. I once met with the pastor of one of America's largest churches. He was one of the busiest ministers I had ever seen. He told me without apology, "I have no time to pray." What he really meant was he gave no priority to prayer. When I visited his church, I sensed no moving of God's Spirit in the congregation. It was one of the most spiritually dead churches I had ever preached in. How could there be any life if the pastor didn't pray? Make prayer a priority in your life above all else, including family, career, and leisure time. Today, make a sacrifice of prayer! __________________ 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

15-06-25, 17:38	#1613
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You God's Life-Giving Breath So many churches have seminars, books, websites, podcasts, and meetings for every age group and need. These things are designed for good, but they are nothing if God's Spirit is not breathed into them. In fact, such things have the subtle power to rob us of the life God desires for us. Consider this tragic scene where God shows Ezekiel a valley of bones. "And I looked, and behold, there were sinews on them, and flesh had come upon them, and skin had covered them. But there was no breath in them" (Ezekiel 37:8, ESV). This reminds me of churches that have every program and strategy in place but no life. As we go through the motions of church, we are deceived into thinking we are spiritual. It may seem like dry bones are hooking together, but in reality, they lack the life-giving breath of God. I would trade 1,000 worship services and 10,000 strategies for a single breath from his Spirit. Only God can breathe life into what we do so that these dry bones might live. "Then he said to me, 'Prophesy to the breath'" (Ezekiel 37:9). The Hebrew word for "breath" here is ruach, meaning the Spirit of God. Once again, God commanded Ezekiel to prophesy. The first time, he was to prophesy to bones, meaning people; but this second command is to prophesy to God himself, to the Holy Spirit. What is God saying? He is telling us that preaching to one another and articulating doctrine is not enough. We cannot just speak to man about the things of God. We must also talk to God about man, beseeching him to act. God calls men and women of faith to cry out to him to enter their situation and change things. Our eyes cannot see, our ears cannot hear, and our mouths cannot speak anything of him unless he first animates us. When he does this, the results amaze us: "I prophesied as he commanded me, and the breath came into them, and [the bones] lived and stood on their feet" (Ezekiel 37:10). Only God's Holy Spirit can bring life. God's breath brings us to our feet with boldness. It brings dry bones to life and brings light to a dark and despairing environment. Out of chaos, Jesus produces life. Out of ashes, he produces beauty. Into a horrific situation that the enemy means only for destruction, Jesus breathes new 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

16-06-25, 17:54	#1614
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Do Not Lose Heart "And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart" (Galatians 6:9, NKJV). This verse carries the connotation of somebody running a race, but halfway or two-thirds of the way, they quit because of exhaustion or pain. Similarly, there are times when we want to draw back from the work God has entrusted into our hands because of pain or exhaustion. However, we are given an incredible promise. First is the admonition to not grow weary in doing good, for we will reap in the proper time or God's timing if we don't lose heart. However, the question to ponder is why do people lose heart? Why do they quit? Those who know the redemption of Christ and have been given the Spirit of God know the truth of God's word. Our commission on this earth is not to live for ourselves. The purest expression of the Christian life is found in living for the benefit of others. While on this journey, Jesus Christ promises to give us all that we need. He'll comfort us in times of sorrow, give us strength in times of weakness, and provide encouragement in times of discouragement. He will keep us running for a divine reason, to reach the lost because that is Christ's mission on earth. Many lose heart because they have no vision for life in the future. Proverbs says, "Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he" (Proverbs 29:18, KJV). When we lose the vision of God for our future, it is inevitable that we will lose heart. People lose heart when they fall into constant complaining. The psalmist writes, "I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed" (Psalm 77:3). Complaint is the opposite of faith. Our situation may be difficult, but we must learn not to complain because heaven is our eternal home. There is no guarantee in God's Word that everything will be easy. There will be times of exhaustion and pain. Still, the Bible says, "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). Not some things, all things are still working together for good because of our love for God and because we are called according to his purpose. __________________ 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

18-06-25, 00:39	#1615
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Come to Jesus "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." - Matthew 11:28-30 Are you tired? Are you burning the candle at both ends? We have a beautiful and humble offer from Jesus: "Come to me." The invitation is not merely to the weary and the exhausted but to all who have burdens such as worry, anxiety, guilt, and sorrow. Friends, I pray that you accept Jesus' invitation to lay down your worries and cares at His feet as He provides us shelter and rest. When we come to Jesus, we exchange our heavy yoke for His light one. Even though Jesus does not promise the elimination of our problems, He promises that we will never face them alone as we trust God to help us overcome them. The promise Jesus offers brings healing and rest to our weary mind and soul. Christ's work in our lives enables us to face life's trials with grace and peace. Friends, if we accept the call to journey to Jesus, we are entering into a relationship in which you will grow and develop in the character of Christ. I am talking here of an ongoing discipleship journey that leads you to trust and follow God, to turn your ways into the ways of God, which will set you free. As you reflect on this verse and come to Jesus I share this song with you today. https://youtu.be/zNuSfM6i_bI?si=boA8HihTU_VvZBiz Heavenly Father, thank you for extending an invitation to come to you. Lord, I pray for all who are carrying burdens and worn out from the battles in this world that they will come and find rest in 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

18-06-25, 19:24	#1616
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You A Boast-worthy Testimony We live in a time when biblical predictions have become visible realities. Paul wrote that in the last days, perilous times would come upon the earth (see 2 Timothy 3:1). Right now, things are taking place we could not have imagined a few years ago. Jesus predicted that men would become lovers of themselves, lovers of money, hateful, and arrogant. Today, our nation's leaders cannot agree on the most basic common principles. If someone has the nerve to mention sin, he is called a bigot and made an outcast. As God's Word is moved to the sidelines of the culture, sin becomes more and more prevalent. Pastors feel the spiritual bombardment. Week after week, another marriage may be falling apart, kids harm themselves out of self-hatred, and drugs are more widespread than ever. Sadly, there are fewer voices to help, as reports of an increased number of pastors leave the ministry. As Christ's church, we cannot fall asleep to these things. The Old Testament speaks of the sons of Issachar, a group that had a knowledge of the times and skill in dealing with the world (see 1 Chronicles 12:32). Can the same be said of the church today? If we discern the times, we know this is not a moment for half-measures. The only way for us to "deal with the world" is not to let church be business as usual. Jesus said of certain demonic spirits, "This kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting" (Matthew 17:21, NKJV). In these times, our prayers must be fervent because, without spiritual change, things look too bleak. In the midst of darkness, Jesus calls us to be light. A message for such a time is this: "Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world" (1 John 4:4, ESV). God has done awesome works in the lives of his people, and each one of us is called to proclaim his glory through a boast-worthy testimony. What does a boast-worthy testimony look like? As the apostle Paul said in scripture, "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord" (2 Corinthians 10:17). To do the kind of boasting Paul describes, we must have a testimony worthy of boasting, bringing all glory 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

20-06-25, 23:23	#1617
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Enter with Boldness Hebrews contains an incredible promise. It says God's door is always open to us, giving us total access to the Father. "Therefore, brethren, having boldness to enter the Holiest by the blood of Jesus, by a new and living way which he consecrated for us, through the veil, that is, his flesh, and having a High Priest over the house of God, let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water" (Hebrews 10:19-22, NKJV). A few verses later, we are warned that the day of the Lord is fast approaching. "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the day approaching" (Hebrews 10:25). God is saying, "Even now, as the time of Christ's return draws closer, you must seek my face. It is time to go into your secret closet and get to know me." Beloved, I believe we are already seeing these signs today. Our financial system is close to a total meltdown, violence and immorality are on the rise, and our society is pleasure-focused. False prophets or "angels of light" have deceived many with their doctrines of demons. At any time, we can expect to see the hour of tribulation, which will cause men's hearts to fail with fear. Before all this happens, though, the writer of Hebrews says, "Don't let the truth slip away from you! Stay awake and alert. You have an open door into God's holy presence, so go into him with full assurance of faith, making your petitions known. Christ's blood has already made the way for you, and nothing stands between you and the Father." What an assurance that we have every right to enter boldly into the holy of holies to receive all the help we need! __________________ 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

22-06-25, 20:57	#1618
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You A Yielded Life Produces Peace Do you want Jesus to be king of your life? Are you willing to do everything he commands? Then let me show you two wonderful blessings that come to all who enthrone Jesus as king of their lives. First, scripture says if you will submit yourself to Jesus, waiting to receive his counsel and direction, you will partake of his holiness. "Furthermore, we have had human fathers who corrected us, and we paid them respect. Shall we not much more readily be in subjection to the Father of spirits and live? For they indeed for a few days chastened us as seemed best to them, but he for our profit, that we may be partakers of his holiness" (Hebrews 12:9-10, NKJV). Paul commanded us to come to Jesus, asking him to give us dominion over all our sins and fears: "And do not present your members as instruments of unrighteousness to sin, but present yourselves to God as being alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace" (Romans 6:13-14). God is saying, "If you want to know abundant life, a true and full life, then submit yourself to me. I will give you life without fear, guilt, or condemnation!" Second, those who submit to the lordship of Christ will walk in peace without fear or anxiety. "To grant us that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before him all the days of our life... Through the tender mercy of our God, with which the dayspring from on high has visited us; to give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace" (Luke 1:74-75,78-79). When a person has enthroned Christ in his heart, such a life produces peace that passes all understanding, and you can see that peace in the person's face and demeanor. If we yield our lives to him, he will shine his light into our darkness and guide us into peace and rest. What a wonderful promise! __________________ 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

24-06-25, 13:50	#1619
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Faith That Moves Mountains "And Jesus answered them, 'Truly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what has been done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' it will happen. And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.'" - Matthew 21:21-22 I find it amazing that we read in Scripture the very Word of Jesus, as seen in Matthew 21:21-22, and yet we often ignore His teachings and choose to disobey. The Words recorded in Scripture are from the One who gave His life for us, and who loves us the most. Let's review what Jesus tells us, "Truly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what has been done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' it will happen. And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith." As we pray and exercise our faith, may we all begin to experience the life Jesus desires for us and see our prayers align with God's will. Friends, right here in these two verses, we are reminded of the incredible power of faith. Jesus uses the metaphor of moving mountains to illustrate that with genuine belief, nothing is impossible. The mountains symbolize the obstacles and challenges we face in life, whether those are our current circumstances, personal struggles, relational issues, or a BHAG -- a big, hairy, audacious goal. When we come before the Lord in prayer, He invites us to bring our mountains to Him. But the key is not merely in asking but believing. May our faith in and trust in God increase, and may the work of the Holy Spirit refocus our vision, directing our minds from the size of our problems to the size of our God. Beloved, I pray that this will serve as a reminder that our prayers are powerful and effective when rooted in unwavering faith. As you face your mountains today, remember that with God, you hold the power to overcome. Have faith in His promise, believe in His goodness, and watch Him move the mountains 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

26-06-25, 21:07	#1620
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You The Lordship of Christ Those who submit to Christ's lordship have an increase in strength and knowledge of him. They literally gain new mental and physical strength. They do not faint along the way because Jesus pours his own strength into them as they go. "For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy" (Colossians 1:9-11, NKJV). God will keep those who submit to his lordship blameless until the day of Christ's coming. If we submit to Jesus, doing as he commands and not leaning on our own understanding, we will never lack anything. He will supply everything we need to please him. The Lord himself will hold and keep us blameless to the very end! "That you were enriched in everything by him in all utterance and all knowledge, even as the testimony of Christ was confirmed in you, so that you come short in no gift, eagerly waiting for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will also confirm you to the end, that you may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord" (1 Corinthians 1:5-9). Beloved, we are to entrust our lives into Jesus's care. It then becomes his responsibility to hold and keep us: "But the Lord is faithful, who will establish you and guard you from the evil one" (2 Thessalonians 3:3). He says, "If you keep me enthroned on your heart, I'll keep you blameless until my coming. I'll keep you from falling." "Therefore let those who suffer according to the will of God commit their souls to him in doing good, as to a faithful Creator" (1 Peter 4:19). __________________ 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 Last edited by Tarfoot; 26-06-25 at 21:14.

28-06-25, 02:40	#1621
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Bearing Fruit Jesus said, "Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away; and every branch that bears fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit... If anyone does not abide in me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned" (John 15:2, 6, NKJV). This portion of scripture convicts me deeply. I have read and re-read these powerful words of Christ, and I cannot escape their convicting power. The Holy Spirit has impressed upon me the importance of understanding these words, "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away; and every branch that bears fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit" (John 15:1-2). This matter of Christians bearing fruit is not optional with God. He watches over his vine and all the engrafted branches with great jealousy and concern, patiently waiting for the branches to bring forth fruit. He stands beside it with a pruning knife in hand, lovingly looking for the slightest evidence of corruption, blight, or disease that could hinder growth. God expects fruit from every branch. Without fruit, it is impossible to honor and glorify him or be a true disciple of Christ. Jesus said, "By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be my disciples" (John 15:8). Bearing fruit has everything to do with pleasing God, fulfilling our mission in Christ, and having our prayers and petitions answered. Jesus said, "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit, and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in my name he may give you" (John 15:16). Actually, bearing fruit concerns what we are becoming, rather than simply what we are doing. I am bearing fruit when nothing hinders the flow of Christ's life into me. That is what Jesus meant when he said, "You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you" (John 15:3). Beloved, Jesus is saying, "Because you believed my word, trembling over it, letting it reveal every hidden secret, bringing to light every dark thing, and allowing the Word of God to purge you, the hindrances are all gone!" __________________ 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

28-06-25, 22:24	#1622
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Hear His Voice Millions have been converted because one man heard God's voice. Saul "fell to the ground, and heard a voice" (Acts 9:4, NKJV). When Saul became Paul, he continued to hear the voice of the Lord. He knew his shepherd's voice. Peter allowed the Savior's voice to come to him. "Peter went up on the housetop to pray... And a voice came to him..." (Acts 10:9, 13). The Gentile race was welcomed into the kingdom, along with the house of Cornelius, because Peter obeyed this voice. We also must allow God's voice to come to us. "For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. Today, if you will hear his voice" (Psalm 95:7). Oh, what God could do with Christians who learn to hear from heaven! Yet instead of waiting for God's voice to come to us, we run to counselors and psychologists, read books, and listen to programs, hoping to hear from him. We want a leader to follow, a plan, or a clear word of direction. Few know how to go to the Lord and hear his voice. God wants to shake the earth once more. The whole universe is ready for Holy Ghost convulsions! "See that you do not refuse him who speaks. For if they did not escape who refused him who spoke on earth, much more shall we not escape if we turn away from him who speaks from heaven, whose voice then shook the earth; but now he has promised, saying, 'Yet once more I shake not only the earth, but also heaven'" (Hebrews 12:25-26). He has promised, "Once again, my voice will be heard. Those who hear will shake the earth. Heaven and earth will be moved. By the hearing of my voice, whatsoever is loosed on earth shall be loosed in heaven." To the last church, the Laodicean church, the Lord cries, "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with me" (Revelation 3:20). Beloved, be ready for the last call of Christ to the church: "Open up. Let me into your secret closet. Talk with me and let me talk with you. That's how I will keep you from the hour of temptation that is coming on all the world." __________________ 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 Last edited by Tarfoot; 28-06-25 at 22:30.

30-06-25, 17:47	#1623
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Amazing Grace The grace that Jesus says he pours out upon us is unparalleled in the history of all mankind. The word "grace" has become almost as common as the word "prayer" in the Bible. We all go, "Oh, yes, I believe in grace. Sure, of course." We sing the hymn "Amazing Grace" and emphasize the second word, agreeing that grace is wonderful, a thing we all enjoy. But wait, that's not all that grace is! It is so much more than we could ever imagine. Why are our hearts not exuberant with worship or enamored with grace? Because, to us, grace has become minimized and acceptable. It has become normal, average, something we are content with. As I talk about this revolutionary, unmerited grace, this gift from God that changes your heart and produces fruit in you, many of you say, "Grace...yes, but..." If you are one of these, you are dangling in the realm of legalism. You are escaping the realm of grace and becoming trapped in trying to do it yourself. See what Paul says about this to the Galatian church: "O foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you?... Let me ask you only this: Did you receive the Spirit by works of the law or by hearing with faith? Are you so foolish? Having begun by the Spirit, are you now being perfected by the flesh?" (Galatians 3:1-3, ESV). Sadly, many of us say, "Thank you, Jesus, for your grace on the cross. That grace has cleansed me and given me a clean slate. Thank you for my fresh start, but now I can do it myself." The problem is that you cannot do it yourself. Many are offended by grace because grace says we can't do it on our own; every time we try, we fail miserably. Friend, do you want to be free today? Then say, "I'm a failure on my own; I cannot keep the law of God by myself." After that, thank God for his amazing grace. __________________ 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

07-07-25, 21:41	#1624
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Faith Is Your Victory Have you failed? Is there a sin that easily besets you? Do you feel like a weakened coward, unable to get the victory over secret sin? Yet with that weakness in you, is there also a consuming hunger for God? Do you yearn for him? "For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world--our faith" (1 John 5:4, NKJV). Your hunger and thirst for God are the keys to your victory. That makes you different from all others who have been guilty of failing God. It sets you apart. You must keep that hunger alive. Keep thirsting after righteousness. Never justify your weakness, never give in to it, and never accept it as a part of your life. Faith is your victory. Abraham had weaknesses; he lied, almost turning his wife into an adulteress. But "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness" (Romans 4:3). Sure, you have failed. Maybe yesterday or even today! Do you believe Jesus has the power to ultimately free you from sin's power? Do you believe the cross of Jesus means sin's bondage is broken? Do you accept the fact that he has promised to deliver you from the snare of Satan? Let me tell you exactly where I believe the victory lies. Let your heart accept all the promises of victory in Jesus. Let your faith tell your heart, "I may not be what I want to be yet, but God is at work in me, and he has the power to loosen sin's hold on me. It may be little by little, but the day will come when faith will conquer. I will not always be a slave. I am not the devil's puppet and will not be his victim. I am a weak child of God, wanting the strength of Jesus. I am going to come forth as pure gold tried in the fire. God is for me!" Beloved, commit it all to him. He will keep you from falling and present you faultless before the throne of God with exceeding joy! __________________ 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

10-07-25, 17:26	#1625
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Strength in Weakness A woman once wrote to me, "My marriage is failing. I seem to do everything wrong in raising my children. I feel like I am not worth anything to anybody. I've not been a very good wife, mother, or Christian. I must be the world's worst failure." When men and women think they can do nothing right, God delights in using our failures. The kind of people the Lord is looking for are those who know that if anything good happens through them, it must be because of God. All the hotshot Christians who go about bowling people over with their great abilities never impress God. God looked down on a scheming, base, weakling of a man named Jacob and said, "Fear not, you worm Jacob...I will help you... Behold, I will make you into a new threshing sledge with sharp teeth... You shall rejoice in the Lord, and glory in the holy one of Israel" (Isaiah 41:14-16, NKJV). Men often use God to achieve fortune, fame, honor, and respect. Talent, personality, and cleverness are used to advance God's kingdom, but God is not impressed. His strength is perfected in our weakness. We are unable to obey his commandments in our own strength. God calls us to a life of holiness and separation. He tells us we can be free from the bondage of sin. His Word presents some impossible challenges: "Resist the devil. Walk in the Spirit. Come out from among them. Love your enemies. Leave behind all your fears. Put down your lustful desires. Let no sin have dominion over you." When you think honestly about how little you can do on your own to fulfill these challenges, you realize how very weak you are. Your heart begins to cry, "Lord, how can we do such great, holy things?" That is when our Lord takes over! He comes with such a comforting message: "Lay down your weapons. Quit trying to be so self-sufficient and strong. I am your weapon and your strength. Let me do what you never can do. I will give you my righteousness, holiness, rest, and strength." Beloved, we cannot save ourselves or please him in any way other than by receiving the blessings of the cross by faith. Today, let him be in charge of your growth in holiness. __________________ 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

12-07-25, 02:26	#1626
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Jesus Is Near Are you facing a crisis that has driven you to your knees? Physical pain, financial turmoil, troubled marriage? Has your trial continued so long that your spirit has sunk into despondency? Multitudes of Christians face excruciating situations beyond their control, and things seem hopeless. They've exhausted all their resources and pressed forward, believing that God will meet their needs; but their situation has gone from bad to worse. The more they pray, the further away God seems, and they think he no longer cares. If this describes you, I want to encourage you. Do not give up! Jesus is near to you. He desires to meet your needs and give you a breakthrough, no matter how desperate your circumstances are. A scene in Mark's gospel addresses a desperate circumstance. A man named Jairus was a devoted God-fearer in an immediate crisis. "Then came one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name, and seeing [Jesus], he fell at his feet and implored him earnestly, saying, 'My little daughter is at the point of death. Come and lay your hands on her, so that she may be made well and live.'" (Mark 5:22-23, ESV). Imagine Jairus's desperation. His young daughter was deathly ill, and when he learned that Jesus the healer was nearby, he ran to the Messiah. This man probably fell on his face and begged for a miracle, saying, "Lord, unless you do this, I have no hope. Doctors can't help me. You must make my miracle happen." Note the exact phrase Jairus uses in the verse above: "So that she may be made well and live" (Mark 5:23). Jairus believed the Lord for the impossible, declaring, "Jesus, you can!" He knew that if Christ touched his daughter, she would be healed. We know the rest of Jairus's story. Jesus told the entire household, "Why are you making a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but sleeping" (Mark 5:39). Today, your situation may seem beyond hope, but not to Jesus. He raised Jairus's daughter from the dead, and he is ready to step into your situation with the same resurrection power. __________________ 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

12-07-25, 19:28	#1627
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Amazing Faith When Jesus heard these things, he marveled at him, and turning to the crowd that followed him, said, "I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith." Luke 7:9 In Luke 7:9, there is a moment in the Bible where Jesus is amazed at the faith of the centurion. Now the centurion, as a man of power, understood what it was to command and be commanded. He also knew he didn't have to have Jesus come to his house for his servant to be made well; he just needed to say the word. The centurion's faith impressed Jesus, and in it is a life lesson about believing and trusting. We face challenges that, from our perspective, seem impossible to overcome. We find ourselves in situations where we feel powerless, much like the centurion. However, it is in these moments that our faith shines and guides us through the impossible. Beloved, we must acknowledge that no matter what, no matter how it appears or feels, may we all declare today that we will trust in God and His Word. Every morning, I encourage you to ask God to increase your faith and the faith of others. I challenge you to dedicate time each day to read God's Word and trust it. May you fill your life with scripture -- placing it on your walls, in your car, speaking it aloud over your life -- and watch God start moving in areas you once considered hopeless. Friends, we can join with God and His Word in believing that with Christ, all things are possible. I encourage you to ask the Lord to step in and see it as an opportunity to believe Him for the impossible. I am reminded of the song "What Faith Can Do" by Kutless and invite you to pause and listen, and ask the Lord if He is amazed by your faith in Him. You may have to let go of all the things of this world that you have been holding onto and place your complete faith in Jesus to do what He needs to do in your life. Friends, let us examine our faith today. Do we limit the power of God from working on the impossible? We can, like the centurion, come to Jesus with faith, knowing that our limitations do not bind His authority. Pray with Me: Heavenly Father, we thank You for this powerful word from Luke 7:9. Lord, I am trusting You to make my faith an extraordinary faith as I live this life, believing You to do what You need to do to make me to be who I am supposed to be by living as a person with remarkable faith in You in order to do all You will do for Your glory! 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

14-07-25, 23:27	#1628
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Two Absolutes The longer we live for Christ, the more difficult it is for us to accept easy, cure-all solutions. In our own struggles, we have found great comfort and help in two wonderful absolutes. The first absolute is that God really loves me. God is not in the business of condemning his children. He is a loving Father who wants only to lift us out of our weaknesses. I caught a glimpse of that love recently while walking in the woods around our farm. Not once did I stop to consider the birds flying about, free and healthy. Suddenly, on the ground just ahead, a crippled little bird flopped around. Struggling so hard to fly, the baby bird could only flip over helplessly in the dust. I stooped down to pick it up. It was then that a familiar scripture came flashing through my mind. "Are not two sparrows sold for a copper coin? And not one of them falls to the ground apart from your Father's will" (Matthew 10:29, NKJV). I once thought that verse read, "Not a sparrow falls to the ground without the Father knowing about it." However, Matthew's version states that no sparrow falls without the will of the Father. You see, we are that sparrow. God is with us, even when we fall. The Father does not fall into our sin, but he does come down to our fallen condition. He does not abandon us on our way down. Sometimes we recognize his great love only when we hit bottom. We have won a great victory if we can be convinced God loves us even in our wounded, crippled condition. Our strength is renewed by his everlasting love. Just rest in that wonderful love. Don't panic. Deliverance will come. The second absolute is that it is our faith that pleases him the most. "But without faith, it is impossible to please him" (Hebrews 11:6). God counts our trust as righteousness. "Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness" (Romans 4:3). We may not understand why he sometimes seems to take a long time to intervene, but we know he will keep his word to us. __________________ 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

16-07-25, 01:01	#1629
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You The Overcoming Christian A person who believes that power is equally divided between God and Satan is double-minded and unstable in all their ways. This explains why "in time of temptation [some] fall away" (see Luke 8:13). They fall back into fear and lose sight of God's mighty power. Jesus taught to "watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Matthew 26:41). The spirit of God in you yearns to teach you confidence in his power, but the flesh seeks to give in to fear. I believe fear, not weariness, put the disciples to sleep while Jesus prayed in the garden. They had just received the news that Jesus would be betrayed and delivered into the hands of sinful men, that Peter would become a traitor, and that they would all be offended and scattered. Suddenly, they forgot all his miracles, his mighty power to heal the sick and raise the dead, and his power to multiply loaves and fishes. They were terrified of being abandoned by the Lord. They slept the sleep of doomed men. When Jesus asks us to pray that we not be led into temptation, he is saying, "Pray that you learn to trust God's power now, instead of having to go back again and again into the arena of temptation until the lesson is learned!" The Bible says that "the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations" (2 Peter 2:9). How? By putting you under fire until you come out singing, "He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world" (1 John 4:4). At times, you may have to yield to temptation. Even the saintliest of God's people occasionally do. That is why God made special provisions for those who fail: "And if anyone sins, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous" (1 John 2:1). Our Lord is not nearly as grieved by our yielding to temptation as he is by our not learning how to deal with it. He is hurt more because we have not trusted his power to deliver. God is hurt not so much by what we do as by what we do not do. The overcoming Christian is one whose life confesses, "God has the kingdom, the power, and the glory forever. 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

17-07-25, 21:08	#1630
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You No More Excuses "But they all alike began to make excuses. The first said to him, 'I have bought a field, and I must go out and see it. Please have me excused.' And another said, 'I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to examine them. Please have me excused.' And another said, 'I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.'" Luke 14:18-20 The Parable of the Great Banquet in Luke 14:18-20 describes guests invited to a large banquet making excuses not to attend. One says he bought a field and needs to inspect it; another says he purchased five yoke of oxen and is on his way to test them; still another says he recently got married. Each invited guest excuses himself from the feast with a distraction that prevents him from sharing in the celebration of a big banquet. Our reflection on this passage encourages us to ask: What excuses do we make that hinder our full commitment to God's invitation? Maybe it's our busy schedules, our fears, or our feelings of insecurity about whether we are deserving. But God calls us to live abundantly and joyfully as He extends an invitation for us to join His banquet of grace and love. Today, I urge you to set aside your excuses and say "yes" to God's invitation. Friends, we need to seize every opportunity to grow, connect, and serve that God provides. Remember, being in His presence, even for a moment, is an opportunity to taste and see that He is good. Beloved, may we not overlook the blessings God has for us. I pray that you will dedicate yourself to walking in faith, releasing distractions, and moving forward to recognize the work of the Holy Spirit and say "yes" to the feast and the transformative power of God's love in your life. As you forsake all for Christ, you can set aside all distractions and excuses and accept His invitation to join Him in the work He is doing. 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

19-07-25, 00:21	#1631
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You Resurrection Power "There came from the ruler's house some who said, 'Your daughter is dead.'" (Mark 5:35, ESV). This news must have struck Jairus's heart like a knife. He had just heard Jesus tell the woman with the issue of blood that her suffering was over, and now he was being told that his suffering had only begun. I picture this godly man thinking, "My lack of faith allowed my daughter to die. There is an important message in this passage for everyone whose situation has fallen apart completely. Maybe your healing didn't come to pass, or your marriage has ended. Maybe that lost loved one never came to Jesus. We simply don't understand why God allows some tragedies to happen. The kind of faith Jesus calls for in this scene is the most difficult kind to have. Every circumstance tells us that it's too late for God to intervene. However, Jesus is looking for a very particular faith in such times, a faith that says, "Yes, my situation is past all hope, but Jesus can still do this." This kind of faith was required of Abraham. His son Isaac was already considered dead when Abraham raised a knife to slay him in obedience to the Lord, yet just when the promises of God seemed to be untrue, the Lord intervened (see Genesis 22). That is exactly the way Jesus intervened for Jairus. He told him, "Do not fear, only believe" (Mark 5:36). I don't believe Christ was requiring faith of Jairus here as much as he was speaking faith into him. Just as the Lord said at the creation, "Let there be light," so he said to Jairus, "Let there be faith." Friend, if Jesus were to speak audibly to you today, I believe he would say the same to "Have faith!" He knows you are beyond all your own strength and abilities, and he is creating faith in you. He is prophesying over you, saying, "Just have faith for your marriage, for your children, your physical affliction, your finances, your work in ministry, for every area of life that even now lies on its deathbed." We know the rest of Jairus's story. Jesus told the entire household, "Why are you making a commotion and weeping? The child is not dead but sleeping" (Mark 5:39). Your situation may look hopeless too, but it doesn't to Jesus. He raised Jairus's daughter from the dead, and he is ready to step into your situation with the same resurrection power! __________________ 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 Last edited by Tarfoot; 19-07-25 at 00:30.

23-07-25, 17:08	#1632
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You God Chooses the Weak "God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty" (1 Corinthians 1:27, NKJV). God still chooses the weak to show forth his strength. Have you ever grieved over weakness? Have you felt insignificant, frail and useless to God? Have you looked upon others who seem so strong, so perfect, and thought of yourself in comparison as too sinful, too dull to be used by God? God is not looking for spiritual giants but rather for ordinary saints with childlike faith who have lost all confidence in the flesh. God will confound the strong and wise by anointing those who are considered weak and foolish as his instruments. The Lord will bypass those who lean on the arm of flesh, who trust in their talents, knowledge, background, and family reputation. Instead, he will raise up the brokenhearted, weak, and weary. He will pour on them a spirit of praise and a baptism of love. He will show them his greatness, faithfulness, covenants; and they will become strong in the Lord and in the power of his might. Is there a spirit in you that urges you on to new and higher places in the Lord? Is there a fire for God ignited within? Do you feel a drawing to a renewed faith and trust in God? Be thankful! That is the call of Jesus Christ the Lord! His promises to us are great and precious. "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). "As it is written: 'Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love him.' But God has revealed them to us through his Spirit. For the Spirit searches all things, yes, the deep things of God" (1 Corinthians 2:9-10). __________________ 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

25-07-25, 01:24	#1633
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You He Did Not Threaten Here is an amazing truth connected with Christ's suffering: "...When he suffered, he did not threaten, but committed himself to him who judges righteously" (1 Peter 2:23, NKJV). What a tremendous statement! "When he suffered, he threatened not." He never once defended himself against those who mistreated him. He punished no one nor retaliated against anyone. How unlike us. We threaten when suffering gets unbearable; we defend ourselves; we constantly protect our rights and reputation. Worst of all, we threaten God. It's a very subtle thing, and most of us are not aware of what we are doing. When our prayers go unanswered, when trouble and disaster strike our lives, when it seems as though the Lord has let us down, when we end up lonely and in pain -- we pull back on God. We slack on prayer and Bible reading. We still love him, but we let go of our zeal. We begin to drift, and our faith becomes dull and inactive. Those responses are all threats against the Lord. Every time we back off from seeking the Lord with all our hearts, we are threatening him. It's a subtle way of saying, "Lord, I did my best, and you let me down." The Lord has infinite patience with those of us who hurt. He waits lovingly until we return to his tender care. However, if we refuse to wake up and renew our faith and hope in him, it can become a way of life and a threat to God's faithfulness. Some become so disillusioned, they give in to their lusts and passions. They indulge their desires because the battle seems so hopeless. It's their way of saying, "What's the use? I call on God to help me, to deliver me, but help never comes. I've still got this thing in me after all my tears and prayers." Our mentality finally comes to this: "I have a right to do it because I've been hurt so badly." It's a threat to God, a way of getting even with him for not answering prayer on our schedule. Beloved, there is hope! The Lord alone is our keeper. He will not let his children slip or fall. We are held in the palm of his hand. Let us do as Christ did. He "committed himself to him who judges righteously" (1 Peter 2:23). That is to place your life completely in God's hands. Give up your struggle. Quit trying to accomplish anything in your own strength. Commit the keeping of your body and soul to the Lord of Hosts! __________________ 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

28-07-25, 14:40	#1634
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You A Spark A spark is temporary, lasting only a second before going out. A spark has a purpose, though, to ignite things, to get something started. For example, a spark is needed on a gas grill to start the flame that does the cooking. A spark in itself isn't a fire, though; it won't cook the meat. In order to live in the fullness that God intends for our lives, we need a flame that is fueled continually by the oil of God's compelling grace. David's life shows us the difference. He had the same spiritual experiences that Saul did, being touched and anointed by God's hand. However, the spark that David received was fanned into a flame. "Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day forward. And Samuel rose up and went to Ramah" (1 Samuel 16:13, ESV). This last phrase "from that day on" shows us the difference in David and Saul's lives. Once David received a spark from God, he guarded it, stoked it, and fueled it. He decided, "I want this spark to increase into a burning flame for the Lord." When God's spark comes, it may soothe us, but it is also meant to create a fire that refines us. The flame of his holiness cleanses us of things that do not belong; and as it burns away the dross of sin, it causes us to hate our compromise. It also stirs in us a passion to be holy so that we say as David did, "Lord, I want to be clean before you and have a right spirit." Many Christians resist this. Conviction can lead to change, and we may not be willing to change some of our habits or things we covet. David addressed the resistance of his own heart, pleading, "Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit" (Psalm 51:11-12). Note David's emphasis on obedience in this verse. The apostle Paul could have disobeyed God's direction and gone his own way in missions. In fact, he was chomping at the bit to take the gospel into Asia, but he also spoke of being forbidden by the Holy Spirit to go there. Paul knew that if he proceeded on his own, he would grieve the Holy Spirit. He still would have been saved and loved by God, but he would have quenched the Spirit's power to move in his life. That's exactly what happened to King Saul. As he kept disobeying, the power of God's Spirit to use him kept diminishing. After a while, Saul no longer heard God's voice or felt the stirring of his Spirit because he had never allowed the initial spark to fan into a cleansing flame. We must not allow this to be our path. We ought to choose to have a heart like David and Paul! __________________ 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

29-07-25, 18:53	#1635
Tarfoot Honoured Member Join Date: Oct 2013 Location: US Posts: 2,163 Thanks: 547 Thanked 1,124 Times in 1,009 Posts Awards Showcase Total Awards: 5	Re: POWER of PRAYER- No Matter Which Faith You Follow=GOD is With You A Song in Hard Times "For there those who carried us away captive asked of us a song, and those who plundered us requested mirth, saying, 'Sing us one of the songs of Zion!' How shall we sing the Lord's song in a foreign land?" (Psalm 137:3-4, NKJV). The people of God were in the hardest place of their lifetime. As they were carried away, their captors required of them a song. There was no life in them anymore, nothing but depression, despair, hopelessness. Multitudes of Christians are in the same position today. You may be trapped by your circumstances, or the devil is coming at you with an old temptation. You are on the edge of giving up, thinking, "I can't make it. In spite of all my crying and praying, that old bondage is going to hound me forever!" When Israel fell into Babylonian bondage, their captors cried to them, "Sing for us! Play for us. We've heard all about you and what your God did for you. Now take out your tambourines and bring out your harps. Play us a song. Show us your joy in your God!" I do not believe this demand was made only in mockery. I believe it was also a pitiful plea. The Babylonians' gods had left them empty and dry. They had no hope, but they had heard Israel singing to their God who had seen them through impossible circumstances. They said, "These people have a God who can open a sea for them. His fire comes down from heaven, and he stands against their enemies. There's got to be something to this God of theirs." Like all the world, they wanted to see a people who'd endured the same problems they had and faced the same battles they'd faced and despite this, could still sing and shout and hold their faith in the darkest of hours. They needed a testimony. It is important that the children of God, wherever they are, at whatever time, sing out, "God, I believe you, no matter what is happening." The world is shouting to us, "You can show us a miracle! It isn't the Red Sea opening up that impresses us. We don't need the blind given sight or the lame healed. Can you look at the darkest hour of your life, a situation that's hopeless to all human reasoning, and yet smile with joy, singing praises to God? That's the miracle we want to see." __________________ 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 Last edited by Tarfoot; 29-07-25 at 19:01.