Bible Study - Discipline (2) - Knowing GOD - Psalm 119:17-24 - January 31, 2021

 

Bible Study – Discipline (2) – Knowing GOD – January 31, 2021

This lesson two (2) in our series entitled, “Spiritual Disciplines: Becoming More Like JESUS.”

Our focus scripture is Psalm 119:17-24.

Our relationship with GOD is strengthened as we encounter HIM in HIS Word.

When you read GOD’S Word do you encounter GOD? If not, why not? What do you expect to glean from GOD’S Word? Is the Bible ancient history or the living Word of GOD? Is it applicable to your life in today’s world? Is the Bible the Words of GOD or the Word of GOD?

We are studying “Spiritual Disciplines: Becoming More Like JESUS” and knowing GOD is the end result of our study.

Words taken from the Seniors study guide “Bible Studies for Life” Page 115, Winter 2021, LifeWay Publishers, “Meditating on God’s Word requires focused, deliberate attention over a prolonged period of time on biblical teachings. Bible reading gives breadth. Bible study gives depth. Meditating on the Word gives perspective. It is an intentional choice we make to join God in His work of transforming us into the image of Christ. Spending quality time in God’s Word changes the way we think and respond to life.”

We miss so much when we hurriedly read GOD’S Word and check it off of our list of things to do. Let’s slow down and read it, focus on it, meditate on it and ask GOD to reveal truth to us and how we can apply it. As we dig deeper into GOD’S Word it is like digging for precious metals or searching for precious jewels. It takes time and effort but the reward is without description and priceless. Put on your mining hat and grab your mining tools and let’s search for hidden treasure. Let’s go treasure hunting!

Our focus scripture is Psalm 119 which is an acrostic psalm which means each section has 8 verses. The Hebrew alphabet has 22 letters thus 176 verses. Psalm 119 is the longest of the 150 psalms and is considered the most majestic of the Psalms. As we read our selected scripture, since it is the third section, it begins with the third letter of the Hebrew alphabet, Gimel. Let’s explore.

The psalms were inspired by GOD but written by man under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. As already stated, our selected scripture begins with the third letter of the Hebrew alphabet. What had the psalmist written for letters one (Aleph) and two (Beth)?

In verses 1-8 (Aleph), the psalmist wrote about the person that is well grounded in GOD’S Word. That person is happy, not ashamed and filled with praise. In the second stanza or the second letter, Beth, it focuses on the person who applies or walks in the “power of GOD’S Word.” When we walk or apply what we read in GOD’S Word, it results in our delight as we keep GOD’S Word. The third letter, Gimel, borders on a lament. It focuses on a pattern of petition, complaint, oppression, trust, keeping GOD’S Word as a stranger in a foreign land, while asking GOD to open his eyes to the truth of HIS Word. The psalmist desired to see GOD’S truth applied for his own comfort of knowing that GOD was alive and well even in a foreign land. It brings to mind the song, “GOD has the Whole World in HIS Hands.” It is easy for us to lose sight of the presence of GOD when we see riots, homes and businesses being destroyed or having to be concerned about a plague taking your life or the life of a loved one. YES! GOD is still on HIS Throne and is alive and well and in control but sometimes HE has to get our attention. In whom do we place our trust and faith? GOD transcends all human might! How do we know that? We experience it, we read about it in GOD’S Word, we see it manifested in the lives of fellow Christians and we experience it in our own lives.

Let’s read Psalm 119:17-18:

ג Gimel

¹⁷ Deal generously with your servant
so that I might live;
then I will keep your word.
¹⁸ Open my eyes so that I may contemplate
wondrous things from your instruction.

Many of us may be like the psalmist, “deal generously with your servant so that I might live” in a world that seems to be hostile to YOU. Pour out YOUR blessings on me so that I can see beyond what is happening around me and focus on YOUR majesty and power so that I may live victoriously in my surroundings. FATHER, there are so many who are living in the confines of their homes while evil surrounds them – seen or unseen – real or imagined. We need YOU, FATHER, to be our refuge and strength during these days when our world seems to be upside down.

Often, when evil seems to be getting the upper hand, we need the assurance that GOD is still on HIS throne and in control. It is easy for us to get discouraged when we look around and see the evidence of evil but do not be discouraged because GOD is still in control. We need GOD to “deal with us generously” with the outpouring of HIS presence in our lives.

The psalmist follows this request with “so that I might live; then I will keep your word.” The Hebrew word for “keep” is rich and full of meaning. It means to “keep something,” “to pay careful attention,” “to take care of,” “to guard,” “to heed,” the psalmist saw GOD’S Word as treasure and he wanted to treat it with great care. GOD’S Word transcends a slogan or motto. GOD’S Word has great value and is to be cherished and applied in our lives. We read in 2 Timothy 3:16:

¹⁶ All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for ^[a]instruction in righteousness,

The Apostle Paul wrote this in his letter to young Pastor Timothy. Keep in mind that Paul was trained in the Hebrew scriptures before he accepted JESUS as his Savior.

The psalmist asked GOD to “deal generously with him” and to “open my eyes so that I may contemplate wondrous things from YOUR instruction.” Where do we get GOD’S instruction? (1) From GOD’S Word, the Bible (2) The Holy Spirit.

We have at least two sets of eyes. (1) Our physical eyes (2) Our Spiritual eyes. (3) The eyes of our hearts where truth resides. So how do we get to the “eyes of our hearts.” We need something to drill deep into our being, not physically but Spiritually and that something is the Holy Spirit and GOD’S Word.

In our last week’s study, we addressed our carnal and Spiritual nature. Christians are growing Spiritually and are at various Spiritual growth levels based upon our walk with GOD.

I remember many years ago, I wanted to be a mature Christian. I asked GOD to make me a mature Christian thinking that He would throw Holy Dust over me and Walla I had arrived. Little did I know that HE would, so-to-speak, clean my clock or clear the table of my life of spiritual notions and false thinking and build upon the foundation of JESUS THE CHRIST. Now that was likely 50 years ago and guess what? HE is still building on that solid foundation. I am a work-in-progress – halleluiah!!! HE is still working on me.

The psalmist stated in verse ¹⁸ Open my eyes so that I may contemplate
wondrous things from your instruction.

Consider a new born baby. They go through physical development stages of being able to see shapes, black and white until they see the world as GOD intended. They have to grow physically. Once we become a member of GOD’S Family through the miracle of Spiritually birth, we must mature Spiritually. How do we do that? When we are born Spiritually, we are grafted into JESUS, the true vine. We are sealed with the Holy Spirit and through this union we are fed Spiritual nourishment. JESUS said it best in John 15:1-8:

15 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. ² Every branch in me that does not produce fruit he removes, and he prunes every branch that produces fruit so that it will produce more fruit. ³ You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. ⁴ Remain in me, and I in you. Just as a branch is unable to produce fruit by itself unless it remains on the vine, neither can you unless you remain in me. ⁵ I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without me. ⁶ If anyone does not remain in me, he is thrown aside like a branch and he withers. They gather them, throw them into the fire, and they are burned. ⁷ If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you want and it will be done for you. ⁸ My Father is glorified by this: that you produce much fruit and prove to be^[a] my disciples.

Christians are branches of the true vine, JESUS, and are to produce fruit to the Glory of GOD. Think about that GOD loves you and has a purpose for you and your life. GOD’S Word nourishes your Spiritually born Spirit. GOD’S Word is the living water that quenches our Spiritual thirst. Drink of it and know of GOD’S goodness toward you and the best is yet to come.  

Studying GOD’S Word never gets old or mundane. GOD’S Word provides mining opportunities for all who read, study, memorize, meditate on it and apply it. Try it. Satan will do all he can to keep you from it but remember, JESUS is greater than Satan. Victory is yours when you give your life to JESUS. Try it now.  

Let’s read Psalm 119:19-22:

¹⁹ I am a resident alien on earth;
do not hide your commands from me.
²⁰ I am continually overcome
with longing for your judgments.
²¹ You rebuke the arrogant,
the ones under a curse,
who wander from your commands.
²² Take insult and contempt away from me,
for I have kept your decrees.

The psalmist recognizes and acknowledges an absolute truth, “All people are resident aliens on earth.” The only way we will escape earth is by dying. We all will leave our earth suits behind and enter eternity.

The question is, “When death takes place, then what?” The Bible is clear – judgment.

As the psalmist wrote, “Do not hide YOUR commands from me.” The psalmist recognized that there was something he had to do. What he knew then was to follow and obey GOD’S commands. The psalmist knew that GOD had a standard for all people to meet. We know today that GOD’S standard is perfection. WHAT???? Oh yes, perfection. How can that be? GOD provided the way to perfection through HIS only SON, JESUS. Let’s read 2 Corinthians 5:21:

²¹ He (GOD) made the one who did not know sin (JESUS) to be sin^[e] for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

This is GOD’S redemptive plan for all humans. Salvation is only through faith in GOD’S sinless SON, JESUS. Surely there is some other way. If there is, then JESUS came to earth, lived a sinless life and gave HIS sinless life in vain. There is no other way!

GOD rebukes the arrogant or those who think they can out fox GOD and find another way to get to Heaven. Oh, yes, some people think they can do that. Satan blinds because he desires to harvest the souls of those who refuse to believe GOD and HIS Word. Truth always prevails.

Yes, there are those who reject the truth and insult those who embrace the truth of the Gospel of CHRIST. This psalmist made it clear that he embraced the truth of GOD and HIS Word and asked GOD to reveal to him all that GOD desired for him to see and hear from GOD. He did not want to miss any command or decree from GOD. This is what it means to live under the law. Grace transcends the law. Christians live under GOD’S Grace through faith in JESUS. WOW!!! Now that is something to shout about!

The love of GOD compels us to seek truth from GOD’S Word as revealed by the indwelling Holy Spirit. To know GOD in an intimate, loving, personal way compels us to seek the fullness of HIM in our lives. It is not out of obligation but out of our love for HIM, knowing what HE has done for us through our faith in JESUS.

GOD fights your battles in your behalf because “²¹ You rebuke the arrogant, the ones under a curse, who wander from your commands.
²² Take insult and contempt away from me,”

What does it mean when we of faith embrace the truth GOD reveals to us? Let’s read on ----

Let’s read Psalm 119:23-24:

²³ Though princes sit together speaking against me,
your servant will think about your statutes;
²⁴ your decrees are my delight
and my counselors.

When others, particularly powerful influential people, rise up against you, focus on your relationship with GOD because HE is your strength and fights the things that you are helpless to do anything about.

When Satan works through others, fear not because GOD is in control. GOD is all knowing and all seeing. HE knows the very hearts and intentions of others. GOD is not surprised by what others are planning. GOD through the indwelling Holy Spirit can lead us to action or for us to rest in HIM and trust.

A big issue many of us have to deal with in life is when other people, especially those of some importance, speak behind our backs. When we, who are in the right relationship with GOD, hear about others of social/political importance are speaking against us, it bruises our ego. But when we are in right relationship with GOD and approved by GOD, what others think or say about us is of no value when we focus upon GOD’S Word. This is why scripture memory and meditation are vital for Christians. It is GOD’S Word that sustains us through the rough patches in life. The psalmist was confident in the care and leadership of GOD in his life.

Consider what I wrote in the opening:

“Meditating on God’s Word requires focused and deliberate attention over a prolonged period of time on biblical teachings. Bible reading gives breadth. Bible study gives depth. Meditating on the Word gives perspective. It is an intentional choice when we decide to join God in His work of transforming us into the image of Christ. Spending quality time in God’s Word changes the way we think and how we respond to life.” There is treasure in GOD’S Word. Are you mining to find it? If not, why not? It is yours but you have to seek it. Happy mining and digging!

Blessings!!! 

 

 

 

Bible Study - Disciplines (1) - The Benefit of Spiritual Disciplines - 1 Timothy 4:1-10 - January 24, 2021

 

Bible Study – Disciplines (1) – The Benefit of Spiritual Disciplines – January 24, 2021

This is lesson one (1) in our series entitled, “Spiritual Disciplines: Becoming More Like JESUS.”

Our focus scripture is 1 Timothy 4:1-10.

Growth in CHRIST occurs when we practice Spiritual disciplines.

This study begins a 6-week study:

-         Week 1 – The Benefit of Spiritual Disciplines.

-         Week 2 – Knowing GOD

-         Week 3 – Intimacy with GOD

-         Week 4 – Maintaining Focus on GOD

-         Week 5 – Connecting to CHRIST’S Body

-         Week 6 – Joining GOD’S Work

Lesson one is on the benefit of Spiritual discipline. Most all of us practice certain disciplines in our lives which we know benefit us e.g., eating properly, exercise, body hygiene, education, etc. These disciplines translate to things that benefit our human bodies and relationships e.g., good health, endurance, stronger muscles, stronger teeth with less cavities when we brush our teeth and the list goes on. The same is true when we practice Spiritual disciplines e.g., reading GOD’S Word, scripture memory, praying, serving, putting what we read in the Bible into practice, being honest with GOD, etc.

As Christians, we need to practice Spiritual disciplines such as reading, studying, memorizing and meditating on the Bible as the Holy Spirit leads us. As we do, we need to ask GOD to reveal areas in our lives that do not measure up and need correction.

We know that scripture is a light for the path we travel during the dark times in our lives. Scripture is sharper than a two-edged sword that cuts both ways and deep into our being (to the eyes of our hearts where truth resides). The Holy Spirit reveals through Scripture our relationship with GOD. When we are not in right relationship with GOD through faith in JESUS, it robs us of fellowship with GOD. Scripture shines the light of truth in the dark places in our lives. Scripture also reveals to us what we are to do about being restored. When we have invited JESUS into our hearts but we go astray, Satan declares us unworthy, which is a lie. But GOD waits and prods us to confess our sins and return to HIM. GOD never leaves us or forsakes us.

Christians are at war with Satan and his followers and the only way for us to be victorious is to remain in fellowship with GOD by staying connected to the One True Vine, JESUS The CHRIST. CHRIST in us is our hope.

Some people think they are a Christian because they were born in America, or their parents or grandparents were Christian. Do not believe this lie.

Christians are those who have asked JESUS to forgive them for their sins believing that the shed blood of JESUS paid, in full, for all of their sins. The result of salvation is that they have been Spiritually born and they will live eternally. They are born into GOD’S Family as such are equipped with Spiritual Gifts to be used to serve others.

Not all Christians grow Spiritually at the same rate. Some Christians remain babies while others mature quicker. As Christians mature, they realize they are insufficient to know what lies ahead along life’s journey but GOD knows and so orders their steps as their Good Shepherd. The Holy Spirit guides and empowers the mature Christian. The mature Christian is in right relationship/fellowship with GOD through faith in JESUS which is confirmed by the indwelling Holy Spirit.

Romans 8:16-17- ¹⁶ The Spirit himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, ¹⁷ and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and coheirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.

Being a Mature Christian is knowing that CHRIST is within us and equips us to function in a hostile world. Why hostile? Simply, Satan roams earth seeking whom to devour. It means we will know that whatever we face, GOD will be our strength and will face it with us.

The Apostle Paul addressed the difference between a Spiritually mature Christian and a Christian in 1 Corinthians 3:1-4:

3 For my part, brothers and sisters, I was not able to speak to you as spiritual people but as people of the flesh, as babies in Christ. ² I gave you milk to drink, not solid food, since you were not yet ready for it. In fact, you are still not ready, ³ because you are still worldly. For since there is envy and strife^[a] among you, are you not worldly and behaving like mere humans? ⁴ For whenever someone says, “I belong to Paul,” and another, “I belong to Apollos,” are you not acting like mere humans?

I have often thought wouldn’t it be nice if our government representatives are elected would be bipartisan and do what is best for our nation – that is work in the best interest of the people.

As Spirit-born Christians it is time that we lead the way for the healing of our land. Many are disappointed that our political candidate did not win. Many think the election was fraudulent. If it was, we need to find out what happened and fix it before our next election. Keep in mind that we are in a spiritual battle against evil and it is time for us to pray and to move forward with wisdom from our LORD. GOD does not give HIS Children a Spirit of fear but of a sound mind. (2 Timothy 1:7)

The Apostle Paul wrote two letters to his Spiritual son, Pastor Timothy. Our focus scripture is his first letter to Timothy.

Who gets in the middle of issues our nation faces or we as Christians face? All the peoples of earth have a common enemy, Satan and his forces. They want to tear down and destroy Christians, churches, and individuals. Satan hates GOD and all who become Christians. Let’s explore!

Let’s read 1 Timothy 4:1-3:

Demonic Influence

4 Now the Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will depart from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons, ² through the hypocrisy of liars whose consciences are seared. ³ They forbid marriage and demand abstinence from foods that God created to be received with gratitude by those who believe and know the truth. 

What the “Spirit” says was “in later times some will depart from the faith,” why? He answers his own question, Christians are led astray by “paying attention to deceitful spirits and the teachings of demons.” This was relevant during Paul’s day and times since.  What do those deceivers say? First, they were hypocrites, whose consciences were seared and had no clue regarding Spiritual truth. They may have known truth at one time but they allowed themselves to be blinded to the truth by listening and embracing lies and the teachings of demons. Satan loves nothing more than to assume a position of authority among Christians and be disguised in sheep’s clothing. Christians must keep in mind that on Judgment Day some will say as recorded in Matthew 7:21-23:

²¹ “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. ²² On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, didn’t we prophesy in your name, drive out demons in your name, and do many miracles in your name?’ ²³ Then I will announce to them, ‘I never knew you. Depart from me, you lawbreakers!’^[b][c]

The Apostle Paul was giving a heads-up to young preacher Timothy regarding the issues that Satan can use to hobble the church, Christians and ultimately destroy the church or Christians.

Guess what? The same is true today.

How do we as Christians spot these wolves in sheep’s clothing? We must know the scripture and be filled and guided by the indwelling Holy Spirit. If you are ever in a Christian service and the hair on the back of your neck stands up, so-to-speak, pay attention because there is either something going on or about to go on that you better ask for discernment. Your best action may be to leave that gathering.

Satan and his devils want to deceive and to mislead or confuse a person who is seeking to become a Christian or desires to grow Spiritually. If you are a young immature Christian, Satan wants to stop you before you become a Spirit filled Christian. If you do become a Christian, Satan’s desire is to discourage you from growing Spiritually. If you are a mature Christian, then Satan wants to do battle with you and destroy you. So, what is a Christian to do? Scripture is clear for those who are Christians as recorded in 1 John 4:4: ⁴ You are from God, little children, and you have conquered them, because the one who is in you (JESUS) is greater than the one (Satan) who is in the world. 

Yes! There is victory in JESUS because HE gave HIS sinless life just for you.

These deceivers will teach people to do things which GOD approves but with a twist. Read again verse 4. This is a control tactic and has nothing to do with salvation or growing Spiritually. Beware! Why? Matthew 24:24:
For false messiahs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders to lead astray, if possible, even the elect.

Who is the elect? They are those who know the truth, indwelled by the Holy Spirit and know GOD’S Word. They are Spiritually born Christians and beware they can be deceived. At one time I thought I could walk through Hell and come out the other end without smelling like smoke. But the LORD showed me thinking that was egotistical and a lie. Never get too big for your Spiritual britches which is driven by self. Spirit led Christians must allow the Holy Spirit to lead.

Let’s read 1 Timothy 4:4-7a:

⁴ For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with thanksgiving, ⁵ since it is sanctified by the word of God and by prayer.

What is your comfort index? The Spiritually born Christian seeks confirmation of truth from GOD. When HE gives us the truth, is it received with thanksgiving? Truth soothes the eyes of the heart, where truth is discerned.

A Good Servant of Jesus Christ

⁶ If you point these things out to the brothers and sisters, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, nourished by the words of the faith and the good teaching that you have followed. ⁷ But have nothing to do with pointless and silly myths. 

Study GOD’S Word and know the truth and be nourished by it. Embrace good teaching from GOD’S Word. Good teaching is not always feel-good sermons or teachings. The indwelling Holy Spirit decerns truth. Listen to THE EYES OF YOUR HEART, where truth in discerned. Ask GOD to reveal truth to you, which means separating truth from error.

The Jews who had become Christians had a hard time separating their dietary restrictions resulting from their Jewish heritage. GOD declares what HE has made and ordained as clean. As you recall the Apostle Peter had to face his Jewish dietary practices before GOD called him to minister to the Gentiles. How we treat the ordinary issues of life are important. This includes what we eat and marriage.

Consider that GOD knows our bodies and our natures. HE may lead us to abstain or embrace certain foods or whether we marry or not marry based upon our needs and HIS plans for us, as HIS Children.

There are certain things we can do that will benefit us and others as we live life upon earth as Christians as we read on ---

Let’s read 1 Timothy 7b-10:

Rather, train yourself in godliness. ⁸ For the training of the body has limited benefit, but godliness is beneficial in every way, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come. ⁹ This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance. ¹⁰ For this reason we labor and strive,^[a] because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.

As GOD’S Children, through the miracle of Spiritual birth, we can train ourselves in Godliness. An athlete trains their physical body for the events in which they plan to participate. The Apostle Paul acknowledged that physical training is good but it is for a limited time. This does not mean that we should not train physically but just as we train physically, we need to train in Godliness. When we train in Godliness, it has eternal rewards.

Training in Godliness benefits us upon earth as we reach out to those with whom we come into contact every day and has Spiritual benefits that become evident when we get to Heaven.

Training in Godliness is a message to those upon earth that our hope transcends from earth into Heaven.

Christians are the light of the world and the salt of the earth. May all Christians train in Godliness because of our relationship with GOD through faith in JESUS.

Blessings!!!

 

 

Bible Study - Created for a Purpose (special) - Jeremiah 1:4-10 - Jamuary 17, 2021

 Bible Study – Created for a Purpose (Special) – January 17, 2021

This is a special one study lesson. We will begin next week SIX-WEEK study entitled: “Spiritual Disciplines: Becoming More Like JESUS.”

GOD values each of us and created us for a purpose.

Our focus scripture is Jeremiah 1:4-10.

Every person upon earth is unique. Think about our DNA is unique to the individual. GOD has created each of us to be unique and HE has a plan for each of us. GOD calls us to carry out HIS will and purpose upon earth, just as it is in Heaven. GOD calls each person first to salvation and then to serve HIM in a host of ways. GOD did not make us robots but persons who have the freedom to choose. The question is when HE calls us to serve HIM, do we choose to serve HIM or rebel?

One of my favorite verses is recorded in Ephesians 1:4: ³ Blessed is the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavens in Christ. ⁴ For he (GOD) chose us in him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in love before him.^[c] The Apostle Paul wrote this to the Christians in Ephesus. Step one is to accept JESUS as your Savior. CHRIST in you is what makes you a Christian, not the institution of which you may become a member. Step two is to make HIM the LORD of your life. GOD chose you before the foundation of the world. GOD chose you but do you choose HIM through faith in JESUS? Once you become a Spirit-born Christian, HE can call you to be in the military, fireman or woman, business person, medical, mechanic, plumber, pastor, youth leader and the list goes on. Christians can serve JESUS wherever HE calls you to serve.

Our Bible Study focuses on the Prophet Jeremiah. Jeremiah is known as the weeping prophet. He wept over the sins of the people and the priests of HIS day. He addressed a vital question which we deal with in today’s world. When does life begin? Let’s explore!

Jeremiah wrote this book of prophecy about 580 BC shortly before the fall of Judah and Jerusalem and the destruction of the temple by the Babylonians. The temple was destroyed in 587 BC.

This study deals with the sanctity of life. I will deal with the question many females may have regarding this question. When does life begin? It clearly begins at the instant of conception according to GOD’S Word. Ouch! Yes, I know many have been told that life does not begin until after the baby is born and takes its first breath or you can hear its heart beat.

Now, I will be quick to let you know that our One True GOD/Yahweh, The Father of The LORD JESUS CHRIST, forgives all for all their sins when they ask JESUS to forgive them and invite JESUS into their hearts. That includes abortion, which is murder. Yes, there are medical reasons the fetus has to be aborted. Some may think who are contemplating abortion, “I will have an abortion and then ask for GOD to forgive me.” Consider the alternative of going through a loving, caring, legal group and offering your baby up for adoption. Or in our area there is a wonderful, caring organization, Carolina Pregnancy Center, in Spartanburg that offers counsel to you regarding options.

Okay, let’s move into our study, which is magnificent.

We get to see behind the scenes of life as GOD reveals to Jeremiah HIS workings in life. GOD was personally involved in the formation of each of us in our mother’s womb! Let’s explore!

Let’s read Jeremiah 1:4-5:

The Call of Jeremiah

⁴ The word of the Lord came to me:

⁵ I chose you before I formed you in the womb;
I set you apart before you were born.
I appointed you a prophet to the nations,

to destroy and demolish,
to build and plant.

The revelation we are reading about came to the Prophet directly from the LORD, The GOD of the Covenant/Yahweh.

We read that at the appointed time upon earth, Jeremiah’s mother conceived him because GOD had chosen him. GOD then formed him in his mother’s womb for HIS purpose. GOD called him to be HIS prophet to the nations. Notice the wording “to the nations”, is plural – “to destroy and demolish, to build and plant”.

GOD is the architect behind nation building and HE can rebuild America! Why are we, as Christians, alive at this moment and time upon earth? Are we the reminant that results in GOD sparing America? Are we still here for that purpose?

2 Chronicles 7:14

and my people, who bear my name, humble themselves, pray and seek my face, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land.

Do you think this scripture was placed in the Bible by mistake? No! It is there on purpose to warn GOD’S Children of their responsibility to look to HIM for deliverance.

Look around, are we living in such a time when, we who know the truth need to apply what we have learned in the light to practice in these dark times? There are a lot of disturbing things going on in the world today.

What was Jeremiah’s reaction?

Let’s read Jeremiah 1:6-8:

⁶ But I protested, “Oh no, Lord God! Look, I don’t know how to speak since I am only a youth.”

⁷ Then the Lord said to me:

Do not say, “I am only a youth,”
for you will go to everyone I send you to
and speak whatever I tell you.
⁸ Do not be afraid of anyone,
for I will be with you to rescue you.
This is the Lord’s declaration.

The Prophet discussed his calling with GOD. Jeremiah felt like he was not prepared to serve The One True Covenant GOD. Most Christians who are called feel inadequate to serve GOD. When we accept GOD’S call, HE equips. HE does not equip until a person accepts HIS call. We must trust and take that first step of faith.

GOD assures Jeremiah that HE will be his strength, leader and protector. This is true today when GOD calls HIS Children to serve HIM.

GOD assures, guarantees and certifies HIS presence with the person who accepts HIS call.

Salvation, as well as, the call into service requires a step of faith.

I know, I wanted to test drive being a Christian before accepting JESUS as my SAVIOR. It does not work that way. Dear JESUS, here I am, like I am, please take me as I am and make me into the Christian YOU desire for me to be. Hang onto your britches because HE will take you up on your offer in the twinkling of your eye.

Let’s read Jeremiah 1:9-10:

⁹ Then the Lord reached out his hand, touched my mouth, and told me:

I have now filled your mouth with my words.
¹⁰ See, I have appointed you today
over nations and kingdoms
to uproot and tear down,

Wham-O/Jam-O – GOD promised that HE would be with Jeremiah. He was the person GOD had called for the task ahead. GOD commissioned him. GOD reached out and touched Jeremiah’s mouth and told him:

I have now filled your mouth with my words.
¹⁰ See, I have appointed you today
over nations and kingdoms
to uproot and tear down,

GOD anointed Jeremiah with HIS message and HIS power to fulfill GOD’S calling.

When GOD calls, HE also equips and empowers. Will it be easy? No! But as we respond, we will know that we are doing the will and purpose of GOD. Those HE calls, HE equips with the indwelling Holy Spirit to accomplish HIS will and purpose.

Is GOD calling you? Then stop fighting. It is time for you to step up and serve. Keep in mind that a cup of cold water may be your calling, a kind word, call a friend or whatever GOD desires for you to do.

Blessings!!!

 

Bible Study - Emotions (6) - Weathering the Blues - Psalm 31:1-8 - January 10, 2021

 

Bible Study – Emotions (6) – Weathering the Blues – January 10, 2021

This is our sixth and final lesson in our series entitled “When Emotions Arise.”

Our focus scripture is Psalm 31:1-8. GOD lifts us up when we feel down.

Our emotions can be real or imagined. Either way, they become something that can hinder us to function as GOD’S Children. The key is where or to whom do we turn when we get in an emotional funk?

Where did or to whom did David turn?

When we are in trouble or need lifting up to whom or where do we turn for solace?

To whom did David turn to? Did his decision to whom to turn just happen overnight or was it a process? Building any enduring relationship takes time and going through situations and issues.

Let’s explore! 

Let’s read Psalm 31:1-2:

A Plea for Protection

For the choir director. A psalm of David.

¹ Lord, I seek refuge in you;
let me never be disgraced.
Save me by your righteousness.
² Listen closely to me; rescue me quickly.
Be a rock of refuge for me,
a mountain fortress to save me.

In this psalm, immediately, we read that David is using the covenant name for GOD (LORD). David acknowledges GOD as foundational. GOD, the One and Only Covenant GOD, reached down to the Israelites and established the everlasting covenant with the Israelites. GOD reached down to them and gave them a choice whether or not they would agree to be HIS people. The Israelites agreed and their covenant relationship was established with The One True GOD of the universe.

What had David learned through his covenant relationship with GOD/Yahweh? What have we learned in our relationship with GOD through our faith in JESUS? David, had discovered through his relationship with GOD that he could find refuge in GOD. David often had to flee from King Saul or other enemies but there was one thing certain, GOD was with him and he had found refuge in trusting GOD.

We might say to ourselves, “WOW! I wish I could find that refuge in my relationship with GOD. Have issues in your life come up that were beyond your control or ability to deal with? To whom did you turn for a solution. Keep in mind that Spirit-born Christians are indwelled by the Holy Spirit. The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 8:14-17 and 26-30:

¹⁴ For all those led by God’s Spirit are God’s sons. ¹⁵ For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear. Instead, you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, “Abba,^[i] Father!” ¹⁶ The Spirit himself testifies together with our spirit that we are God’s children, ¹⁷ and if children, also heirs—heirs of God and coheirs with Christ—if indeed we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him. (Skip to verses 26-30)

²⁶ In the same way the Spirit also helps us in our weakness, because we do not know what to pray for as we should, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us^[j] with inexpressible groanings. ²⁷ And he who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because he intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

²⁸ We know that all things (GOD is in all things. Things do not have a mind or direction but GOD does) work together^[k] for the good^[l] of those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. ²⁹ For those he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, so that he would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. ³⁰ And those he predestined, he also called; and those he called, he also justified; and those he justified, he also glorified.

When were you called? Let’s read Ephesians 1:4-5 -  ⁴ For he (GOD) chose us in him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and blameless in love before him.^[c] 5 He predestined us to be adopted as sons (or daughters) through Jesus Christ for himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,

The Believer’s Triumph (Back to Romans 8:31-33)

³¹ What, then, are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? ³² He did not even spare his own Son but gave him up for us all. How will he not also with him grant us everything? ³³ Who can bring an accusation against God’s elect? God is the one who justifies.

Circumstances in life either bring us closer to GOD through faith in JESUS or they become barriers for discovering truth. Have you discovered the truth that rests in placing your faith in JESUS? If not, why not? Today is the day of salvation.

David continued with words and statements he had found to be true in his relationship with GOD/The ONE TRUE GOD/Yahweh.

David’s next statement is very interesting:

” let me never be disgraced.
Save me by your righteousness.”

In essence, David was saying, “LORD, my confidence in YOU is solid and I trust YOU, because YOU are righteous. Help me to never disgrace YOU by my actions of unbelief.” That is “I ask YOU to save me from myself when I face circumstances that may cause me to doubt that YOU are in control of all matters.”

David continued, “² Listen closely to me; rescue me quickly.
Be a rock of refuge for me,
a mountain fortress to save me.”

This statement connotes a sense of urgency. In essence, “I am in a dire situation and I need YOU to come to my aid immediately. The only way out of the situation I am in, is for YOU to “be my refuge and fortress.” I ask YOU to be my rock and shield.

David had escaped danger in the past from those who were trying to kill him by taking safety and protection in the mountainous/rocky terrain. David was expressing his confidence in GOD based upon his past experience that GOD had provided protection for him. This confidence is based upon experiencing and trusting GOD to deliver him.

David asked GOD for HIS help quickly. David revealed his faith in GOD by asking GOD to come to his aide because he had done all he could. He was fully confident GOD would rescue him. That is having a personal, trusting relationship with GOD.

As GOD’S Children, do we have that same confidence in GOD to come to our aide when we need it. Why not? How much faith does it take? JESUS taught in Matthew 17:20 - ²⁰ “Because of your little faith,” he^[j] told them. “For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of ^[k] a mustard seed, you will tell this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”^[l]

It is a matter of faith. Satan blinds Christians concerning the power of GOD. All a Christian needs is faith in GOD the “size of a mustard seed” for HIM to respond to our request. Faith is built upon being in right relationship with GOD through faith in JESUS.

In the Old Testament, GOD accrued the faith of the patriarchs as “righteousness.”

Since the passion of JESUS, GOD declared faith in JESUS as righteousness. (2 Corinthians 5:21 – copied on page 6.)

Let’s read Psalm 31:3-4:

³ For you are my rock and my fortress;
you lead and guide me
for your name’s sake.
⁴ You will free me from the net
that is secretly set for me,
for you are my refuge.

David’s faith and trust were completely in GOD/Yahweh our covenant GOD. The all-seeing and all-knowing GOD in Whom we place our faith through faith in JESUS. GOD knows where all the snares and secret traps are set for each of HIS Children. We must be in the right relationship with HIM and respond as the Holy Spirit leads and guides us through life.

David’s statement of faith -----

Let’s read Psalm 31:5-8:

⁵ Into your hand I entrust my spirit;
you have redeemed me,^[a] Lord, God of truth.

⁶ I^[b] hate those who are devoted to worthless idols,
but I trust in the Lord.
⁷ I will rejoice and be glad in your faithful love
because you have seen my affliction.
You know the troubles of my soul
⁸ and have not handed me over to the enemy.
You have set my feet in a spacious place.

David had complete faith in GOD. What did that mean to David?

Genesis 15:6

Abram believed the Lord, and he (GOD) credited it to him as righteousness.

As you recall in Romans 3:22

The righteousness of God is through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe, since there is no distinction.

Consider 2 Corinthians 5:21:

²¹ He (GOD) made the one who did not know sin (JESUS) to be sin^[e] for us, so that in him we (Spirit-born Christians) might become the righteousness of God.

Only GOD can declare a person righteous. GOD establishes the criteria.

One thing certain and two-things sure, faith in JESUS and HIS atonement for our sins through HIS shed blood triggers the miracle of Spiritual birth. Our birth, as a human, gives each of us the opportunity to make this temporary life into permanent/eternal life through the miracle of Spiritual birth.

David expressed his faith and trust in the One True GOD/Yahweh/his Covenant GOD. It was not that David made GOD but GOD established Himself. GOD reached down and established HIS covenant with the Israelites. The Israelites did not seek GOD, HE sought them and chose them. HE gave them the opportunity to accept HIS offer for HIM to be their GOD or reject the offer. His (David) redemption was not the result of anything David had done but the result of his faith and trust in GOD/Yahweh.

This same covenant GOD/Yahweh sent HIS only SON, JESUS, to earth to live in the flesh and be tempted as all humans are tempted, yet without sin. JESUS had the ability to sin but HE chose not to sin. JESUS willingly gave HIS sinless physical life by the shedding of HIS blood to atone or pay in full for each of our sins. Everyone’s sins are forgiven and washed away when they place their faith in JESUS.  They are declared righteous by GOD/Yahweh and become GOD’S Sons or Daughters by the miracle of Spiritual Birth into GOD’S Family and receive eternal life. WOW! What a gift!

We are living in the sunshine of GOD’S Grace. We do not place our faith in anything but JESUS CHRIST and HIS righteousness. Once we are Spirit-born into GOD’S Family, we will never become Spirit unborn. We belong to GOD eternally. The instant we exit our earth suit/human body, Spirit-born Christians are in the presence of GOD.

Let’s consider the last few verses of Psalm 31:7-8:

⁷ I will rejoice and be glad in your faithful love
because you have seen my affliction.
You know the troubles of my soul
⁸ and have not handed me over to the enemy.
You have set my feet in a spacious place.

GOD knows each of us intimately. HE knows the number of hairs we have upon our heads. HE knows the struggles we have encountered in life. HE has stuck with us through our ups and downs. GOD has not condemned us because we have struggled. We have been able to come through our struggles because we have a solid relationship with the One True GOD of the Covenant. The result of these struggles has led us to a freedom that is beyond human understanding because our GOD has removed the shackles of confinement to the freedom found only in a spacious place.

Are you shackled by your past life? If so, step into the glorious freedom found in being GOD’S Child through faith in JESUS. Ask JESUS to forgive you for your sins and ask HIM to come into your life. HE gave HIS life for all sinners. If you have asked JESUS into your life some time ago but have not been living for HIM, confess it and return. HE stands and waits with open arms for your return. HE is waiting just for you. Come home, now!

If you have never asked JESUS to forgive you for your sins and for HIM to come into your life, now is that opportunity. HE chose you before the foundations of the world. It is your opportunity to choose HIM as your Savior. Once HE is your Savior, make HIM the LORD of your life!

Blessings!!!