Bible Study - Beyond Belief (1) - GOD Is Holy - Psalm 99 - June 1, 2014

Bible Study – Beyond Belief (1) – GOD Is Holy – June 1, 2014

This is lesson one (1) in our series entitled “Beyond Belief: Does What I Believe about GOD Change Anything?”

Our focus scripture is Psalm 99:1-9.

For the next six (6) weeks we will examine various scriptures and consider “Does what I believe change anything?”

GOD'S desire is for a person to build his or her faith about HIM upon truth as revealed through experience, which is confirmed by HIS Word, the Bible, and the indwelling Holy Spirit.  Truth will change our lives such that we will become more like HIM as we obediently serve HIM. Our perceptions of GOD must be based upon what GOD reveals about Himself not what we think about GOD.

We know in the physical world certain truths exist. There are laws which govern motion, chemical reactions, gravity and the list goes on. Gravity works and man has learned how to use or defy gravity. Mankind depends upon gravity working consistently. Yet, when it comes to the Spiritual world many deny the existence of GOD because they do not have the Holy Spirit indwelling them. The Apostle Paul put it well in 1 Corinthians 2:12-16:

12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. 14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. 16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ. (KJV)

But the question is does our denial of GOD mean that HE does not exist or the god we shape according to our notions; our ideology or the ideologies of others make it real? None of the gods the world has fashioned has reached down to mankind but Yahweh has reached down to mankind through the Jews and then by coming to earth in the flesh as GOD’S only Son, JESUS.

We can quibble all we want but it is certain that one day we will all die and go into eternity. But where to after that – meet GOD and JESUS - Heaven or Hell? The Bible is very clear as recorded in Psalm 14:1a:

1 The fool says in his heart, “God does not exist.”

James 2:19:

19 You say you have faith, for you believe that there is one God. Good for you! Even the demons believe this, and they tremble in terror.

I have talked to people who tell me that they will take their chances. If there is a GOD of love, HE or SHE will let them into heaven. What does HE tell us through HIS Word? It is important to know the truth of HIS Word. Our focus scripture helps us to see GOD through the Spiritual eyes of the Psalm writer.

Psalms 47, 93, 96-99 were isolated about 100 years ago and referred to as the Enthronement Psalms. They have been used at worship festivals celebrating and acknowledging the LORD as King. Each of these Psalm’s focus on different elements of the reign of GOD. Psalm 99 encourages us to discover the truth of GOD’S character. GOD alone is Holy – HE is pure, righteous and worthy of worshipper’s reverence. The psalmists likely wrote this Psalm based upon his experience with GOD.

So how was this Psalm likely used? A worship leader could have spoken verses 1-3a and the worshippers responded with verses 3b. I highlighted the worshippers’ likely response in bold letters. The conclusion of this scripture is “GOD is Holy.”

Psalm 99:1-9 :( Let’s read our focus scripture to help us get an overview of this Psalm.)

The King Is Holy

1 The Lord reigns! Let the peoples tremble. He is enthroned above the • cherubim. Let the earth quake. 2 • Yahweh is great in • Zion; He is exalted above all the peoples. 3 Let them praise Your great and awe-inspiring name. He is holy.

4 The mighty King loves justice. You have established fairness; You have administered justice and righteousness in Jacob. 5 Exalt the Lord our God; bow in worship at His footstool. He is holy.

6 Moses and Aaron were among His priests; Samuel also was among those calling on His name. They called to Yahweh and He answered them. 7 He spoke to them in a pillar of cloud; they kept His decrees and the statutes He gave them. 8 Lord our God, You answered them. You were a forgiving God to them, an avenger of their sinful actions. 9 Exalt the Lord our God; bow in worship at His holy mountain, for the Lord our God is holy.

Holy Reign:

Let’s read Psalm 99:1-3:

1 The Lord reigns! Let the peoples tremble. He is enthroned above the • cherubim. Let the earth quake. 2 • Yahweh is great in • Zion; He is exalted above all the peoples. 3 Let them praise Your great and awe-inspiring name. He is holy.

The LORD is Yahweh or YHWH. HE reigns as King. The psalmist declares GOD King.

Notice that there are no vowels in YHWH because the written Hebrew language did not include vowels. In order to help readers to remember to speak “adonai” instead of YHWH the speaker inserted vowels. The Jews held the word Yahweh so sacred that they avoided speaking it and instead spoke “adonai.” A spoken Latin version of “adonai” was pronounced “Jehovah.”

Let’s read the scripture regarding the personal name GOD gave to Moses in Exodus 3:13-18:

13 Then Moses asked God, “If I go to the Israelites and say to them: The God of your fathers has sent me to you, and they ask me, ‘What is His name?’ what should I tell them?” 14 God replied to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you.” 15 God also said to Moses, “Say this to the Israelites: • Yahweh , the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, has sent me to you. This is My name forever; this is how I am to be remembered in every generation. 16 “Go and assemble the elders of Israel and say to them: Yahweh, the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, has appeared to me and said: I have paid close attention to you and to what has been done to you in Egypt. 17 And I have promised you that I will bring you up from the misery of Egypt to the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites—a land flowing with milk and honey. 18 They will listen to what you say. Then you, along with the elders of Israel, must go to the king of Egypt and say to him: Yahweh, the God of the Hebrews, has met with us. Now please let us go on a three-day trip into the wilderness so that we may sacrifice to Yahweh our God.

Yahweh is probably a third person form of the Hebrew verb “I AM.”

The LORD reigns. HE has reigned and will continue to reign. HE is eternal and sovereign. HE guides all matters in the universe, the world and in the lives of people.  HIS desire is to bring all to a saving knowledge of Himself and after the passion of CHRIST to bring all to a saving knowledge of JESUS.

GOD never forces a person to accept HIM or CHRIST but HE leads them to a point of decision whether or not to accept or reject HIM or CHRIST. As the old saying goes, “You can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink.”

The Psalmist stated that the LORD had revealed Himself through HIS leadership and involvement with the Israelites. HE had been very visible physically through HIS mighty works and through HIS interaction with HIS chosen leaders.

All people but especially the Jews should honor HIM because HE has revealed HIS presence and protective care to them in the pillar of fire at night and the cloud by day.

HE also revealed Himself to HIS chosen by the presence of the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark of the Covenant contained artifacts revealing the active presence of GOD among of HIS chosen.

The Ark of the Covenant was designed by GOD and revealed HIS place of authority above and between the Cherubim’s on the Ark.

Cherubim’s are powerful angelic creatures who serve GOD. GOD is above them. I think this was GOD’S message to the Israelites and for us today for all to keep in mind that HE is above all including heavenly beings and Satan.

The Ark was placed in the most Holy place of the temple as a reminder of the presence of GOD.

The reference to Zion is a reference to Jerusalem. (Verse 2)

GOD’S name embodies all the aspects of GOD but the most important fact is for all people to know that GOD is Holy, to which the Israelites could testify. HIS Holiness defines HIS nature and character, which in turn confirms HIS attributes, some of which are listed in this Psalm and revealed throughout the Bible by HIS chosen servants. GOD can be trusted in all matters.

Many obedient servants of GOD give testimony and witness to HIM today. Do we accept their witness as GOD’S presence and involvement or do we brush their witness off as coincidences? We want GOD to work 100% of the time in all matters concerning our lives, the lives our family, friends and the list goes on. It is often hard to accept GOD’S no when HE does not perform like we think HE should. We must keep in mind that GOD is sovereign.

Holy Justice:

Let’s read Psalm 99:4-5:

4 The mighty King loves justice. You have established fairness; You have administered justice and righteousness in Jacob. 5 Exalt the Lord our God; bow in worship at His footstool. He is holy.

The psalmist viewed GOD as the eternal Ruler of the universe. HE loves justice, practices justice and righteousness in dealing with HIS chosen people, the Israelites. HIS reference to Jacob was a synonym for Israel. HE did not show favoritism toward the Israelites even though they were HIS chosen. When they sinned HE punished them. HE warned them but if they did not repent, HE did what HE said HE would do. Since HE did not spare HIS chosen, why do you think HE will spare those who reject HIM?

Like a loving Father, GOD set the example for how HE wanted HIS chosen to treat each other in society e.g. be firm, consistent, honest, loving, truthful, fair and so much more. HIS desire is for HIS children to reflect HIM in their lives.

What a privilege Christians have in that they have the indwelling Holy Spirit Who can empower, lead, guide, teach, direct, gift, assure and so much more as they yield themselves to obediently serve GOD through CHRIST. CHRIST came to earth to reveal GOD and HIS attributes.

Has any other god revealed himself to mankind? NO! Has any other god died and been resurrected from the dead? NO!  Yet, supposedly intelligent people follow such religions and practices. Satan blinds and he prevents them from seeing the truth of CHRIST.

Holy Grace:

Let’s read Psalm 99:6-9:

6 Moses and Aaron were among His priests; Samuel also was among those calling on His name. They called to Yahweh and He answered them. 7 He spoke to them in a pillar of cloud; they kept His decrees and the statutes He gave them. 8 Lord our God, You answered them. You were a forgiving God to them, an avenger of their sinful actions. 9 Exalt the Lord our God; bow in worship at His holy mountain, for the Lord our God is holy.

The psalmist reflected back to Israel’s journey with GOD from Egyptian bondage to the Promised Land. GOD spoke to the Israelites through Moses, Aaron and later Samuel. They called upon HIS name and HE responded to them. In fact, GOD wanted to speak to the Israelites when HE chose them as HIS people just like HE had spoken to Moses but the Israelites were afraid for GOD to speak to them directly as recorded in Exodus 19:4-13:

4 ‘You have seen what I (GOD) did to the Egyptians and how I (GOD) carried you on eagles’ wings and brought you to Me. 5 Now if you will listen to Me and carefully keep My covenant, you will be My own possession out of all the peoples, although all the earth is Mine, 6 and you will be My kingdom of priests and My holy nation.’ These are the words that you are to say to the Israelites.” 7 After Moses came back, he summoned the elders of the people and set before them all these words that the Lord had commanded him. 8 Then all the people responded together, “We will do all that the Lord has spoken.” So Moses brought the people’s words back to the Lord. 9 The Lord said to Moses, “I am going to come to you in a dense cloud, so that the people will hear when I speak with you and will always believe you.” Then Moses reported the people’s words to the Lord. 10 And the Lord told Moses, “Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow. They must wash their clothes 11 and be prepared by the third day, for on the third day the Lord will come down on Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people. 12 Put boundaries for the people all around the mountain and say: Be careful that you don’t go up on the mountain or touch its base. Anyone who touches the mountain will be put to death. 13 No hand may touch him; instead he will be stoned or shot with arrows. No animal or man will live. When the ram’s horn sounds a long blast, they may go up the mountain.”

Exodus 19:18-21:

18 All the people witnessed the thunder and lightning, the sound of the trumpet, and the mountain surrounded by smoke. When the people saw it they trembled and stood at a distance. 19 “You speak to us, and we will listen,” they said to Moses, “but don’t let God speak to us, or we will die.” 20 Moses responded to the people, “Don’t be afraid, for God has come to test you, so that you will • fear Him and will not sin.” 21 And the people remained standing at a distance as Moses approached the thick darkness where God was.

GOD is Holy and this is the theme of this psalm. GOD desired a personal relationship with the Israelites but they were afraid as we read. GOD came to the Israelites and ultimately to mankind in the flesh as the promised Messiah, JESUS. JESUS paid, in full, the penalty for the sins of every person who will place their faith in HIM.

As we read in verse 8 Lord our God, You answered them. You were a forgiving God to them, an avenger of their sinful actions.

First, GOD answered them.

Second, GOD forgave them and when HE did HE lifted them up because the burden of sin was removed when HE forgave them. But the psalmist wanted to make sure they did not get the idea that forgiveness of sin was automatic. This leads us to the third focus.

Third, “You were a forgiving God to them, an avenger of their sinful actions.” HIS chosen should not get the idea that they do not have to confess their sins. Sin must be confessed, acknowledge the wrong and repent of the action or thought. GOD does not want a seed to linger in our minds to sprout and grow into something as bad or worse. This is true for all Christians. Just because we have eternal life does not mean we can wallow in the things of the world and not be negatively influenced. The Bible is clear as recorded in Proverbs 23:7a:

7 For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: (KJV)

If you wrote a Psalm, what would you write about what you have experienced by walking with HIM?

These are the facts as recorded in GOD’S Word, the Bible and substantiated by many other servants called by GOD. GOD is Holy and sovereign. HE is just, righteous, fair, the same yesterday, today, tomorrow and forever, and the list goes on.

If you have not already received CHRIST as your Savior, now is your opportunity. Ask HIM to forgive you for your sins and to come into your life now. Ask Him to lead you to the place where you can be fed Spiritually and serve HIM. Blessings!!!

 

Bible Study - Hope (6) - Hope Shared - Acts 3:1-10 - May 25, 2014

Bible Study - Hope (6) – (R) Hope Shared – May 25, 2014

This is lesson (6) and the final lesson in our series entitled “Let Hope In.”

Our focus scripture is Acts 3:1-10.

After finding hope in CHRIST, we must share it with others. Sharing the gospel with others is a joy.

This lesson is an ideal follow up to last week’s study of the Apostle Peter denying CHRIST three times and JESUS restoring him for ministry. This week we get to see what can happen in a person’s life when he or she repents and accepts GOD’S grace to move forward with HIM in control of his or her life.

Scripture leading up to our focus scripture:

Acts 1:2-5:

The book of Acts was written by Doctor Luke. These verses give us the reason he wrote this sequel to the Gospel of Luke.

1 I wrote the first narrative, Theophilus, about all that Jesus began to do and teach 2 until the day He was taken up, after He had given orders through the Holy Spirit to the apostles He had chosen. 3 After He had suffered, He also presented Himself alive to them by many convincing proofs, appearing to them during 40 days and speaking about the kingdom of God.

The Holy Spirit Promised

4 While He was together with them, He commanded them not to leave Jerusalem, but to wait for the Father’s promise. “This,” He said, “is what you heard from Me; 5 for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.”

JESUS ascended into heaven and sat at the right hand of the Father to intercede in behalf of all Christians. Satan is the great accuser and our advocate before the Father is JESUS. After JESUS completed HIS earthly ministry, it was GOD’S plan to send the Holy Spirit to indwell all who accept CHRIST as their Savior. The indwelling Holy Spirit is every Christian’s assurance and the guarantee that he or she is GOD’S child and has eternal life. The shed blood of JESUS made ready and sanctified the human body to be indwelled by the Holy Spirit the instant a person receives CHRIST as his or her Savior.

Acts 1:12-14:

12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called the Mount of Olives, which is near Jerusalem—a Sabbath day’s journey away. 13 When they arrived, they went to the room upstairs where they were staying: Peter, John, James, Andrew, Philip, Thomas, Bartholomew, Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas the son of James. 14 All these were continually united in prayer, along with the women, including Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brothers.

Verse 15 - During these days Peter stood up among the • brothers —the number of people who were together was about 120—

Peter took a leadership position before the Holy Spirit came to earth. They chose the disciple to replace Judas.

Acts 2:1-4: (The arrival of the Holy Spirit to indwell all who place their faith in JESUS.)

1 When the day of Pentecost had arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like that of a violent rushing wind came from heaven, and it filled the whole house where they were staying. 3 And tongues, like flames of fire that were divided, appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 Then they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different • languages, as the Spirit gave them ability for speech.

Acts 2:14:

14 But Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice, and proclaimed to them: “Men of Judah and all you residents of Jerusalem, let me explain this to you and pay attention to my words.

Acts 2:37-38:

37 When they heard this, they came under deep conviction and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles: “Brothers, what must we do?” 38 “Repent,” Peter said to them, “and be baptized, each of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Verse 41 So those who accepted his message were baptized, and that day about 3, 000 people were added to them.

Peter was the evangelist that day when about 3,000 became Christians and in the days to follow about 5,000 became Christians. This disturbed the Jewish religious leaders greatly. This part is covered later in Acts Chapter 4.

This brings us to our focus scripture.

Let’s read Acts 3:1-10:

1 Now Peter and John were going up together to the •temple complex at the hour of prayer at three in the afternoon. 2 And a man who was lame from birth was carried there and placed every day at the temple gate called Beautiful, so he could beg from those entering the temple complex. 3 When he saw Peter and John about to enter the temple complex, he asked for help. 4 Peter, along with John, looked at him intently and said, “Look at us.” 5 So he turned to them, expecting to get something from them. 6 But Peter said, “I don’t have silver or gold, but what I have, I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ the • Nazarene, get up and walk!” 7 Then, taking him by the right hand he raised him up, and at once his feet and ankles became strong. 8 So he jumped up, stood, and started to walk, and he entered the temple complex with them —walking, leaping, and praising God. 9 All the people saw him walking and praising God, 10 and they recognized that he was the one who used to sit and beg at the Beautiful Gate of the temple complex. So they were filled with awe and astonishment at what had happened to him.

Let’s explore!

Sacrifices at the temple were made at 9 AM and 3 PM. This was the 3 PM sacrifice and there would likely be a large number of worshippers there. Peter’s and John’s purpose was to go to pray and seek to do the will of JESUS as revealed to them by the Holy Spirit.

As a side note: The temple was the focal point for those seeking a relationship with GOD. Since JESUS gave HIS life for the remission of sins for all who will place their faith in HIM, there was no longer a need to sacrifice animals. The Jewish leaders did not believe that CHRIST was the promised Messiah or if they did acknowledge HIM as the Messiah, they would lose their status and jobs. Thus sacrifices continued until at least 70 AD when the temple was destroyed. Since then, according to the references I checked, animal sacrifices stopped. Our Jewish friends say that sacrifices can only be made in the temple in Jerusalem and that is why the sacrifices stopped when the temple was destroyed but they will start again once the temple is rebuilt.

Christianity was in its infancy, so what better place to find those seeking truth and to share the Gospel of CHRIST with them than the temple. In fact, the temple and synagogues were some of the primary places Christians would go to share the Gospel.  

Acts 3:2 reveals that a man crippled since birth was placed at the temple gate called Beautiful each day for him to beg or ask for money as worshippers entered the temple.

Apostle Peter and John were going up to the temple complex to pray. They entered the gate called Beautiful. There is no historical account of this gate but many Bible scholars believe it was a reference to the gate referred to as the Nicanor gate.  

We know that this man had been begging for many years as Acts 4:21-22 reveals, he was over 40 years old when he was healed, which we will see later. This was his special spot, for a special purpose.

Acts 3:3 When he saw Peter and John about to enter the temple complex, he asked for help. 4 Peter, along with John, looked at him intently and said, “Look at us.”

The cripple man asked Peter and John for help. Both of them looked at the man intently and ask the man to look at them. I think Peter and John were praying and asking CHRIST what they should do for this man. Also, we need to keep in mind what JESUS revealed during HIS ministry as found in Matthew 18:19:

19 Again, I assure you: If two of you on earth agree about any matter that you pray for, it will be done for you by My Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there among them.”

Peter and John received the okay to provide the help this man needed most. Material goods or money would provide temporary help but what this man really needed, money could not buy. What was it? Let’s see in our next focus scripture.

As we read in Acts 3:4-5, the crippled man turned and was expecting something from them. Little did the man know what he was about to receive. He was likely pumped thinking what they had for him. But did his anticipation hit rock bottom when he heard Peter’s words “I don’t have silver or gold.” What do you think flew through this man’s mind? “But what I have, I give to you.” Did he think oh my, “What is about to happen to me?”

This was the first recorded miracle manifested by JESUS through HIS disciples. Peter and John had seen miracles performed by JESUS. As I stated earlier, I think they prayed first and I think received the ok to make the request and then took action. They had the best teacher.

Then he heard the words “In the name of Jesus Christ the • Nazarene, get up and walk!” Had he ever heard of JESUS? Likely but we do not know for certain but it would be a name he would remember for the rest of his life. Peter stated “In the name of JESUS CHRIST the Nazarene, get up and walk!” That was about as plain and direct as you can get.

Peter then placed his faith into action. When he spoke the words, he took the crippled man by his right hand and raised him up. As the man was rising his feet and ankles became strong. The man was healed instantly and he jumped up, stood and started to walk. He entered the temple complex with them —walking, leaping, and praising God.

This was one happy man and as such he was a mighty witness to those in the temple, including the religious staff. The man knew that his healing came from GOD. Had he made the oneness connection between JESUS and GOD? If he hadn’t he would.

This man’s life was changed instantly and JESUS can change your life instantly when you seek HIM and give your life to HIM in obedient service.

In Acts 3:9-10, those in the temple saw the man and could not believe their eyes. They recognized him as the crippled man who had been begging for years at the temple gate called Beautiful. The people were filled with awe and were astonished. How could this be? What an opportunity to witness about JESUS and HIS saving power.

We need to keep in mind that awe and astonishment do not equal salvation but that they do open the way to seek truth. Peter and John were there to present the truth of salvation through faith in CHRIST.

We need to keep in mind that it does not take awe and astonishment for JESUS to reach into the hearts and minds of those who seek salvation. HE can use the simple things we encounter. Seek to obediently serve HIM as HE leads you. Only eternity will reveal how GOD used something as simple as a kind word, a smile or a cup of cold water.

Prior to the man’s healing he could not go into the inner courts of the temple complex because of his deformity. (Lev. 21:17-23) He was seeing the inner courts for the first time. When JESUS heals our hearts due to sin, we see HIM and HIS love for us for the first time and oh what a joy it is!

This caused a stir among the religious leaders. It was hard for them to deny what had happened. The ranking religious leaders had to make an appearance to straighten them all out. In walked the Sadducees.

Let’s read Acts 4:1-4:

1 Now as they (Peter and John) were speaking to the people, the priests, the commander of the temple police, and the • Sadducees confronted them, 2 because they were provoked that they were teaching the people and proclaiming the resurrection from the dead, using Jesus as the example. 3 So they seized them and put them in custody until the next day, since it was already evening. 4 But many of those who heard the message believed, and the number of the men came to about 5, 000.

So what happened to Peter and John? Let’s read Acts 4:5-22:

5 The next day, their rulers, elders, and • scribes assembled in Jerusalem 6 with Annas the high priest, Caiaphas, John and Alexander, and all the members of the high-priestly family. 7 After they had Peter and John stand before them, they asked the question: “By what power or in what name have you done this?” 8 Then Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit and said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders: 9 If we are being examined today about a good deed done to a disabled man —by what means he was healed— 10 let it be known to all of you and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ the • Nazarene —whom you crucified and whom God raised from the dead —by Him this man is standing here before you healthy. 11 This Jesus is the stone rejected by you builders, which has become the cornerstone. 12 There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to people, and we must be saved by it.”

The Name Forbidden

13 When they observed the boldness of Peter and John and realized that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed and recognized that they had been with Jesus. 14 And since they saw the man who had been healed standing with them, they had nothing to say in response. 15 After they had ordered them to leave the • Sanhedrin, they conferred among themselves, 16 saying, “What should we do with these men? For an obvious sign, evident to all who live in Jerusalem, has been done through them, and we cannot deny it! 17 However, so this does not spread any further among the people, let’s threaten them against speaking to anyone in this name again.” 18 So they called for them and ordered them not to preach or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John answered them, “Whether it’s right in the sight of God for us to listen to you rather than to God, you decide; 20 for we are unable to stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.” 21 After threatening them further, they released them. They found no way to punish them, because the people were all giving glory to God over what had been done; 22 for this sign of healing had been performed on a man over 40 years old. JESUS still heals today, especially broken hearts.

It is likely that JESUS had passed by this man and was possibly tempted to heal him or HE may have asked the Father if HE could heal him but the Father told Him to wait, no or whatever. We know that JESUS was tempted in all ways humans are tempted but HE remained sinless. GOD had a plan for this crippled man but at just the right time. Now was that time. This once crippled man was one happy soul.

Many of us have been crippled Spiritually but we have been healed by the touch of JESUS.

For those of us who have accepted CHRIST as our Savior we likely recall the unspeakable joy of our salvation and can relate to the words of Peter and John – “for we are unable to stop speaking about what we have seen and heard.”

It is easy to let the cares of the world move into our lives and rob us of this joy. Do you know this unspeakable joy? If not, you can right now by accepting JESUS as your Savior or if you are already a Christian and have not been living for HIM, confess it and ask HIM to take your life like it is and to help you rebuild that intimate, loving relationship you once had with HIM.

JESUS gave HIS life for all of mankind who will place their faith in HIM. CHRIST does not discriminate because at the foot of the cross the ground is level. If you have not received CHRIST as your Savior, ask HIM to forgive you for your sins and ask HIM to come into your life now. HE will and you will experience the miracle of rebirth in your spirit and become a child of GOD and receive eternal life. Blessings!!!

Bible Study - Hope (5) - Hope Renewed - John 18:15-18, 25-27; 21:15-19 - May 18, 2014

Bible Study – Hope (5) – Hope Renewed – May 18, 2014

This is lesson five (5) in our series entitled “Let Hope In.”

Our focus scripture is John 18:15-18, 25-27; 21:15-19.

When you fail, JESUS will restore you.

Strange as it seems, failure often is the path to success. Most inventors and entrepreneurs fail but when they learn from their failures and keep pressing forward they find success. Christians may feel as if they have failed at the Christian life. They have a choice, to either give up or confess it and seek the LORD’S guidance to do better.

I know in my early walk with CHRIST, I felt that I had to live the Christian life in my own strength. I was doomed to fail. In my early years I thought if I was in fulltime ministry that, in essence, I would be paid or forced to walk the straight and narrow. But looking back, that would have been a disaster. Why? It was simply because my heart was the problem. Was I a Christian? Yes but I was clinging to my old way of life and trying to live the Christian life as I thought it needed to be lived. All along CHRIST’S desire was for me to relinquish my will and life, like it was, and allow HIM to rebuild it accordingly from HIS perspective and plan.

When I relinquished my will into HIS hands my life changed dramatically. But even during that time of being secure in the power of CHRIST in my life, I thought I could walk through Hell itself and come out without the smell of smoke but I found out differently. Spiritual arrogance can lead to trouble. Christians must never take their eyes off of JESUS. But GOD used that period in my life to show me how vulnerable I was and to tear down some notions in my Spiritual life and rebuild it. HE allows certain things to come into our lives that appear to hurt us only to discover later that HE meant it for good and for us to rest in the assurance of HIS protective care. Let’s explore!

Let’s consider the Apostle Peter’s walk with CHRIST leading up to our focus scripture. Peter was a man of action.

Matthew 26:26-35: (JESUS instituted the LORD’S Supper.)

26 As they were eating, Jesus took bread, blessed and broke it, gave it to the disciples, and said, “Take and eat it; this is My body.” 27 Then He took a cup, and after giving thanks, He gave it to them and said, “Drink from it, all of you. 28 For this is My blood that establishes the covenant; it is shed for many for the forgiveness of sins. 29 But I tell you, from this moment I will not drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it in a new way in My Father’s kingdom with you.” 30 After singing psalms, they went out to the • Mount of Olives.

Peter’s Denial Predicted

31 Then Jesus said to them, “Tonight all of you will run away because of Me, for it is written: I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered. 32 But after I have been resurrected, I will go ahead of you to Galilee.” 33 Peter told Him, “Even if everyone runs away because of You, I will never run away!” 34 “I assure you,” Jesus said to him, “tonight, before the rooster crows, you will deny Me three times!” 35 “Even if I have to die with You,” Peter told Him, “I will never deny You!” And all the disciples said the same thing.

The Apostle Peter was ready to fight as we read in the next scripture.

John 18:10:10-11:

10 Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it, struck the high priest’s • slave, and cut off his right ear. (The slave’s name was Malchus.) 11 At that, Jesus said to Peter, “Sheathe your sword! Am I not to drink the cup the Father has given Me?”

I believe that the response of JESUS likely confused Peter. Peter like the other disciples thought JESUS was going to establish an earthly kingdom. Peter was ready to fight, which he demonstrated by using his sword to cut off the right ear of Malchus. JESUS healed Malchus’ ear. That likely blew Peter’s mind.

Often, when we have created in our own minds that we know what the truth is and it fails, it is a serious blow to our belief system. We read of the commitment of Peter to JESUS leading up to HIS arrest. Peter stayed close to JESUS as JESUS was accused and questioned. JESUS had told him that he would deny HIM three times before the cock crowed that morning as we read in our focus scripture.

The Apostle John went with JESUS. Notice John 21:24 This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who wrote them down. We know that his testimony is true.

Let’s read John 18:15-18:

15 Meanwhile, Simon Peter was following Jesus, as was another disciple (John). That disciple was an acquaintance of the high priest; so he went with Jesus into the high priest’s courtyard. 16 But Peter remained standing outside by the door. So the other disciple, the one known to the high priest, went out and spoke to the girl who was the doorkeeper and brought Peter in. 17 Then the slave girl who was the doorkeeper said to Peter, “You aren’t one of this man’s disciples too, are you?” “I am not!” he said. 18 Now the slaves and the temple police had made a charcoal fire, because it was cold. They were standing there warming themselves, and Peter was standing with them, warming himself. Jesus before Annas 19 The high priest questioned Jesus about His disciples and about His teaching. 20 “I have spoken openly to the world,” Jesus answered him. “I have always taught in the • synagogue and in the •temple complex, where all the Jews congregate, and I haven’t spoken anything in secret. 21 Why do you question Me? Question those who heard what I told them. Look, they know what I said.” 22 When He had said these things, one of the temple police standing by slapped Jesus, saying, “Is this the way you answer the high priest?” 23 “If I have spoken wrongly,” Jesus answered him, “give evidence about the wrong; but if rightly, why do you hit Me?” 24 Then Annas sent Him bound to Caiaphas the high priest.

Notice in verse 22 that the temple police slapped JESUS. Yet, JESUS did not retaliate and neither did GOD come to HIS defense. This must have been another reason for Peter to question what was going on.

Let’s read John 18:25-27:

Peter Denies Jesus Twice More

25 Now Simon Peter was standing and warming himself. They said to him, “You aren’t one of His disciples too, are you?” He denied it and said, “I am not!” 26 One of the high priest’s slaves, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, said, “Didn’t I see you with Him in the garden?” 27 Peter then denied it again. Immediately a rooster crowed. 

Luke 22:60-62 But Peter said, “Man, I don’t know what you’re talking about!” Immediately, while he was still speaking, a rooster crowed. 61 Then the Lord turned and looked at Peter. So Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had said to him, “Before the rooster crows today, you will deny Me three times.” 62 And he went outside and wept bitterly.

JESUS had told Peter that he would deny HIM three times before the rooster crowed.  When the rooster crowed Peter knew that JESUS knew that he had denied HIM three times. This likely penetrated Peter’s heart like a sword. Peter may have thought “Why didn’t JESUS use HIS special power from GOD to defend Himself?”  “I cannot believe that JESUS did not come out swinging when that guard slapped HIM. Or why didn’t GOD defend HIS Son JESUS?” When our superstars don’t perform like we think they should, we lose confidence in them. Did Peter’s belief system fail? Yes, because Peter built it upon notions. He thought that JESUS was going to establish an earthly kingdom. Truth never fails. JESUS made it clear that HIS Kingdom was not of this world at this time but later it would be.

Christians must know GOD’S Word, the Bible, by studying themselves to dispel myths, notions, to discern and rightly divide GOD’S Word. Christians are not to sit under a teacher, pastor or Bible study leader who does not teach truth. The Holy Spirit will help them to discern truth but they must take action by studying the Bible to confirm truth.  

GOD’S ways are not our ways and HIS thoughts are higher than our thoughts. Any of us can build our relationships on false notions and when those notions are exposed as false it shakes our faith foundation. But when we open our hearts door to these notions, we are the ones who let them in because we did not seek truth in CHRIST and study HIS Word.

We notice that the crowing of the rooster was a Spiritual wakeup call for Peter. Matthew 26:75: adds additional information:

75 And Peter remembered the word which Jesus had said, " Before a rooster crows, you will deny Me three times." And he went out and wept bitterly.

This is a critical statement regarding Peter. He knew that JESUS knew before hand that he would deny HIM, not once, not twice but three times. We do not know all of the emotions that must have flooded Peter’s mind but a strong, determined man like Peter weeping was telling. His denial hit him very hard. When that happens in a person’s life it results in some serious self examination and processing of information hopefully in search of truth. CHRIST’S desire is for HIS chosen to be on a firm Spiritual foundation which may mean being challenged to redefine our relationship with HIM based upon truth. Remember HE knows our hearts.  

Our focus scripture fast forwards through the trial, crucifixion, death and burial of JESUS leading us to the events after the resurrection of JESUS. JESUS had appeared to HIS disciple twice and this was HIS third appearance to them. Notice that it was Peter who stated that he was “going fishing.” Many folks can do a lot of thinking when fishing, especially when you fish all night and do not catch anything.

Let’s read the scripture leading up to the focus scripture in John 21:1-14:

JESUS’ Third Appearance to the Disciples

1 After this, Jesus revealed Himself again to His disciples by the Sea of Tiberias. He revealed Himself in this way: 2 Simon Peter, Thomas (called “Twin”), Nathanael from Cana of Galilee, Zebedee’s sons, and two others of His disciples were together. 3 “I’m going fishing,” Simon Peter said to them. “We’re coming with you,” they told him. They went out and got into the boat, but that night they caught nothing. 4 When daybreak came, Jesus stood on the shore. However, the disciples did not know it was Jesus. 5 “Men,” Jesus called to them, “you don’t have any fish, do you?” “No,” they answered. 6 “Cast the net on the right side of the boat,” He told them, “and you’ll find some.” So they did, and they were unable to haul it in because of the large number of fish. 7 Therefore the disciple, the one Jesus loved (John), said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” When Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he tied his outer garment around him (for he was stripped) and plunged into the sea. 8 But since they were not far from land (about 100 yards away), the other disciples came in the boat, dragging the net full of fish. 9 When they got out on land, they saw a charcoal fire there, with fish lying on it, and bread. 10 “Bring some of the fish you’ve just caught,” Jesus told them. 11 So Simon Peter got up and hauled the net ashore, full of large fish —153 of them. Even though there were so many, the net was not torn. 12 “Come and have breakfast,” Jesus told them. None of the disciples dared ask Him, “Who are You?” because they knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came, took the bread, and gave it to them. He did the same with the fish. 14 This was now the third time Jesus appeared to the disciples after He was raised from the dead.

Seven of JESUS’ disciples were identified but others could have been present, just not interested in going fishing. These disciples were gathered. It could have been all of them who were together. Anyway had they gathered together to discuss what to do? JESUS had been crucified, buried and resurrected but HE had not established HIS Kingdom. Where did they fit into JESUS’ plan? Peter seems to have come to a conclusion, “I know what I will do, I am returning to what I know best fishing.” I love this next statement by JESUS. I think JESUS has a great sense of humor.

“Men,” Jesus called to them, “you don’t have any fish, do you?”

“You don’t have any fish, do you?” “NO!” “Cast the net on the right side of the boat,” He told them, “and you’ll find some.”

They did and they caught net full of large fish. They had returned to what they knew best, fishing and failed. When they were obedient to JESUS’ command, they were successful. They caught fish. His disciples were at a critical turning point in their lives. Were they to return to what they thought they knew best, fishing or be obedient to JESUS?

JESUS knew that HE had to counsel with Peter. But did HE equally need to counsel HIS other disciples? Keep in mind that this was the third appearance HE made to HIS disciples. Was Peter a linchpin? HE knew that Peter was a strong leader.

Notice in verse 11, “Peter got up.” He got up from where and why? Let’s go back to the original calling of Peter as recorded in Luke 5:4-10:

4 When He (JESUS) had finished speaking, He said to Simon, “Put out into deep water and let down your nets for a catch.” 5 “Master,” Simon replied, “we’ve worked hard all night long and caught nothing! But at Your word, I’ll let down the nets.” 6 When they did this, they caught a great number of fish, and their nets began to tear. 7 So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them; they came and filled both boats so full that they began to sink. 8 When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees and said, “Go away from me, because I’m a sinful man, Lord!” 9 For he and all those with him were amazed at the catch of fish they took, 10 and so were James and John, Zebedee’s sons, who were Simon’s partners.

Did Peter fall at the feet of JESUS again because of his denial of JESUS?

Notice in verse 13, Jesus came, took the bread, and gave it to them. He did the same with the fish. Did JESUS do this to remind them of the night HE instituted what we call the LORD’S Supper and a reminder of the new covenant JESUS established by the shedding of HIS blood?

Let’s continue with our focus scripture.

Let’s read John 21:15-19:

15 When they had eaten breakfast, Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love (agape) Me more than these (fish, fishing equipment or fellow disciples, I think fishing stuff.)?” “Yes, Lord,” he said to Him, “You know that I love (philo) You.” “Feed My lambs,” He told him. 16 A second time He asked him, “Simon, son of John, do you love (agape) Me?” “Yes, Lord,” he said to Him, “You know that I love (philo) You.” “Shepherd My sheep,” He told him. 17 He asked him the third time, “Simon, son of John, do you love (philo) Me?” Peter was grieved that He asked him the third time, “Do you love (philo) Me?” He said, “Lord, You know everything! You know that I love (philo) You.” “Feed My sheep,” Jesus said. 18 “•I assure you: When you were young, you would tie your belt and walk wherever you wanted. But when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands and someone else will tie you and carry you where you don’t want to go.” 19 He said this to signify by what kind of death he would glorify God. After saying this, He told him, “Follow Me!”

Notice that JESUS called Peter by his original name “Simon.” Peter likely thought he was unworthy to continue as a disciple of JESUS. Each time JESUS asked Peter the question “Do you love ME” his positive response was redemptive. Look at verse 19 “After saying this, He told him, “Follow Me!”

Agape love is self-giving love. It is a love that does not demand anything in return. Philo love is friendly or brotherly love. Peter could not bring himself to say that he loved JESUS with self-giving agape love. JESUS asked him two times if he loved HIM with self-giving love and Peter could not say that he did. Peter always responded that he loved JESUS as a brother. The third time JESUS asked him if he loved HIM like a brother. JESUS met Peter on his terms but JESUS knew that there would be a time when Peter would agape HIM when he told him about his final days of his life. Yes, he would give his life in obedience to serving JESUS.

Many Christians may fall but the key is when they do and repent, do they learn from their mistakes/sins. When Christians learn from their mistakes/sins, it makes them more humble, watchful and cautious. It is GOD’S way of getting them to focus their attention upon HIM, HIS strength and HIS care rather than them focusing upon their strength and abilities as they journey through life. Any of us, as Christians, can get too big for our Spiritual britches. We must focus upon Spiritual truth and not notions.

No Christian is beyond falling and when they think they are beyond falling, that spells trouble and they should immediately ask for prayer and seek support. Satan is alive and well and he will find that certain area where he can attack. So be vigilant because as recorded in 1 Peter 5:8-9: 8 Be serious! Be alert! Your adversary the Devil is prowling around like a roaring lion, looking for anyone he can devour. 9 Resist him and be firm in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are being experienced by your fellow believers throughout the world. Notice this scripture was written by the Apostle Peter. Stay vigilant. Blessings!!!

Bible Study - Hope (4) - Hope Expressed - Psalm 138:1-8 - May 11,2014

Bible Study – Hope (4) – Hope Expressed – May 11, 2014

This is lesson four (4) in our series entitled “Let Hope In.”

Our focus scripture is Psalm 138:1-8.

Gratitude is a Christian’s response to the hope he or she has in CHRIST.

Often gratitude comes when we pause and reflect. Sometimes it is after we have been through some difficult times, happy times or just embracing the world and universe HE created. We reflect and see how GOD was involved and worked in our behalf to bring situation(s) to a satisfactory conclusion. Also, various things we see, hear or read can remind us of the greatness and care of GOD in our lives.

In last week’s lesson, we saw that the two sons were interested in the things (goods) their father provided. They were not interested in their relationship with their father only what their father provided. The younger son had to lose the goods his father gave him before he repented and sought the father. The elder son never lost the goods the father provided and neither did he see his sinful nature and repent.

Do we allow things e.g. wealth, social life, living a sinful life, addictions, religion or doing good prevent us from having an intimate, loving, personal relationship with GOD through faith in JESUS?

When we have walked with CHRIST and witnessed HIS care for us, then we can truly show our gratitude in expressions of praise and gratitude.

David wrote Psalm 138. We do not know when he wrote it but speculation is that he wrote it later in life after he had experienced GOD working in his life and caring for him. If you have studied David’s life you know how GOD had chosen David to be king, led, guided and protected him until he became king. He was not perfect but he was a man after GOD’S own heart. Let’s explore!

Thank GOD for the hope we have that is grounded in HIS love and truth.

Let’s read Psalm 138:1-3:

1 I will give You thanks with all my heart; I will sing Your praise before the heavenly beings. 2 I will bow down toward Your holy temple and give thanks to Your name for Your constant love and truth. You have exalted Your name and Your promise above everything else. 3 On the day I called, You answered me; You increased strength within me.

David was grateful for all that GOD had done for him and expressed his sincere thanks and praises to HIM for all to know including heavenly beings. In essence David was saying “I am not ashamed of my love and admiration for the One True GOD and I want all heavenly beings to know it.” At that time the heathens worshipped all sorts of gods and goddesses.

We can express our thanks and praise to GOD, but, does such expressions come from grateful hearts? Often, it does but when some of us mature Spiritually, we discover that our praise was to impress GOD with lofty, flattering words and some of the time for the ears of the people surrounding us. We had a form of Godliness but our hearts had not fully embraced the truth of GOD in our lives.  

Verse 2 gives us some pause to consider regarding David’s reference to the temple. The temple had not been built. Could David have bowed down toward what might have been the future location of the temple or the tent of meeting or the direction from which GOD will come, or the direction the sun rises, the east? David expressed his praise and honor to GOD. As such, he would bow down to worship HIM by prostrating himself in the direction of the location of GOD. HE was worthy of this homage because HE had lived up to HIS name, promises and covenant. David had witnessed the faithfulness of GOD because when he called upon GOD, GOD responded by increasing his inner strength. It was a knowing of the presence of GOD in his life. The Holy Spirit provides that knowing to Christians since Pentecost when GOD sent the Holy Spirit to indwell all true believers.

Ezekiel 43:2
2 And behold, the glory of the God of Israel was coming from the east. And the sound of his coming was like the sound of many waters, and the earth shone with his glory.

The King James translation used “loving-kindness” instead of “constant love and truth.” “Loving-kindness” is a beautiful and powerful term which carries the idea of loyalty and devotion regarding the character of GOD toward HIS covenant people. “Loving-kindness” expresses the loyalty and devotion of both the one giving it and the one receiving it. It is akin to quid quo pro, which in turn equals relationship. It is embodied in truth on the part of GOD and the person with whom GOD is in covenant relationship.

Since the passion of CHRIST, all who place their faith in CHRIST are in covenant relationship with GOD through CHRIST.

Truth conveys trustworthiness and confidence which comes through an interactive relationship. Christians are truly blessed because they have the indwelling Holy Spirit to lead, guide, teach, enlighten and assure them as they walk with the LORD.

David had built such a trust and knowledge of GOD that GOD had exceeded all of his expectations. When David called upon GOD, GOD responded. There were times when, I believe, GOD told David to wait and he did. David was a warrior and could have taken King Saul’s life and been elevated to king but he chose not. As mentioned, David was not Mr. “Goody Two-shoes” but he and GOD had an intimate, personal, dynamic relationship. David had to suffer the consequences of his sins but GOD never cast him out. That should give us all hope in building a strong, personal, intimate relationship with GOD through CHRIST. Doing so does not give us a “get out of jail free card” but we know when all is said and done GOD/CHRIST will never leave us or forsake us.

Thank GOD that HE remembers us in our lowly state and lifts us up.

Let’s read Psalm 138:4-6:

4 All the kings on earth will give You thanks, Lord, when they hear what You have promised. 5 They will sing of the Lord’s ways, for the Lord’s glory is great. 6 Though the Lord is exalted, He takes note of the humble; but He knows the haughty from a distance.

David wrote of the day when all in authority will behold and honor the authority, majesty and glory of GOD. GOD, Yahweh, had entered a covenant with the people of Israel. The Israelites agreed to be GOD’S people. HE chose them and they chose HIM, thus an agreed upon covenant. By being GOD’S chosen people, GOD had a plan for them as stated in Exodus 19:5-6:

5 Now if you will listen to Me and carefully keep My covenant, you will be My own possession out of all the peoples, although all the earth is Mine, 6 and you will be My kingdom of priests and My holy nation.’ These are the words that you are to say to the Israelites.”

The Israelites worshipped The One True GOD, Yahweh, Who created the universe, the world, everything in it including mankind. The Israelites were to be witnesses to all the humans in all nations. Most people did not know HIS Words, care, power or anything about HIM. David’s hope was that one day all humans would know the One True GOD and show HIM the honor and praise due HIM. To know HIM was not just know about HIM but to know HIM through an intimate relationship. To truly know HIM was to truly love HIM.  

John 6:45: (JESUS was speaking.)

45 As it is written in the Scriptures, ‘They will all be taught by God.’ Everyone who listens to the Father and learns from him comes to Me.  

Isaiah 54:13: (JESUS’ quote above came from Isaiah.)

13 Then all your children will be taught by the Lord,

When all the people of earth, especially those in authority, get to really know GOD through an intimate, personal relationship, they will exalt HIM and HIS name. The exalted position of GOD does not mean that HE is beyond reaching down to minister to those in need or those who call upon HIM. No person can drop so low that GOD cannot reach down to him or her. That is an attribute of GOD worth shouting about which reveals HIS love and concern for mankind.

How does a person become our very best friend (BF)? It is through sharing and walking together through various circumstances in life; finding that we can trust that friend to be our friend through thick and thin; and finding that friend will be truthful and maintain our confidence. GOD’S desire is to be our BF.

Thank GOD that hope remains because of HIS continual Protection.

Let’s read Psalm 138:7-8:

7 If I walk into the thick of danger, You will preserve my life from the anger of my enemies. You will extend Your hand; Your right hand will save me. 8 The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me. Lord, Your love is eternal; do not abandon the work of Your hands.

David had experienced GOD’S protection and care when he was in danger. GOD had preserved his life when he was experiencing anger from his enemies. Many of us have likely experienced GOD’S protective care in the work place. Often, the long knives of the work place are out to get us but GOD intervenes in our behalf. It may be in retrospect that we find this out.

Christians are not to test GOD by doing dumb things but they are to work and trust GOD to watch their backs. Christians are not to purposely walk into danger but to be obedient and in doing so, trust GOD to take care of them.  

GOD extends HIS right hand, which is HIS powerful hand, to us and defends us with HIS left hand.

GOD has a plan and purpose for each of HIS chosen and nothing will prevent that from happening. The Apostle Paul stated it well in Philippians 1:6:

6 I am sure of this, that He who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

A Christian’s part is to obediently serve HIM which means to act when HE directs us to act and not to act when HE says not. That is often very hard to do because we must trust HIS leadership and lean not on our own understanding as stated in Proverbs 3:5-6:

5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. (KJV)

When Christians realize the love GOD has for them and the extent HE is willing to go to for them, it is overwhelming. This knowledge results in grateful hearts, full of praise, thanksgiving and gratitude.

If you wrote a psalm of gratitude, what would it reflect about your relationship with GOD through your relationship with CHRIST?

Blessings!!!