CareLines: Volume 2

The Lord is incredibly patient. That’s why He didn’t come last year. So as we start 1991 let’s be ready for Him. This could be the year when all true Christians (those who are born again) will hear His shout and will be snatched away to be with Him forever. This is the greatest and most exciting hope that a Christian can have. Don’t lose it.

Care: Part 1

MAT 20:32

Jesus stood still, and called them, and said, What will ye that I shall do unto you?

Matt. 20:32

Jesus cared for those who were in trouble. And when Someone as busy as Jesus “stood still” then you know that He cared. Those who were blind asked for their sight. He gave it. And they followed Him. Yes, Jesus will stand still for you. He cares and wants to help you.

Salvation: 1

JAM 2:19

Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

James 2:19

So, you believe in God! Fine! So do the demons - and they’re scared to death because they know Him only as a Judge who will send them to hell forever. Belief in God is not enough. You must believe in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, for full salvation. There is salvation in no other way. For there is no other name under heaven given among men whereby we MUST be saved. That name? JESUS!

Quitting

ACT 14:19-20

Having stoned Paul, [they] drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead. . . . And the next day he departed with Barnabus to Derbe.

Acts 14:19, 20

Sometimes we get the feeling that it’s not worth the hassle; we might as well give up. Perhaps you might have thought that you didn’t have the Lord’s mind in a certain thing because things didn’t go right. The Apostle Paul was stoned and thought dead. But he got up, walked into the city, and the next day continued on his journey as if nothing had happened. He would not give up. God had work for him to do and do it he would. Don’t quit in the work of the Lord, young person. Keep going. It’s worth it.

Confidence in God

EXO 3:11

And Moses said unto God, Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh?

Exo. 3:11

Moses was questioning God’s wisdom in sending him to rescue the children of Israel. Perhaps he was thinking back to the time when he had killed one of the taskmasters to protect an Israelite. Maybe he felt ashamed now. Don’t look back. Leave the confessed past to God. Don’t have confidence in the flesh, but lean in confidence on God. Enjoy the fact that God loves you. And when He calls you to do something for Him, let Him use you in whatever way He chooses.

Worship

2CO 29:30

And they sang praises with gladness, and they bowed their heads and worshipped.

2 Chron. 29:30

What better time to sing praises than at the meeting in which we remember the Lord’s death. The gladness we feel because He died in our place should show in our singing. As you remember the cross of Calvary, the cost to the Lord Jesus, what He suffered before and on the cross, the three hours of absolute loneliness as He paid the price for sin, it should cause you to bow your heart in genuine worship. Remember Him today with a thankful heart, and a song of praise on your lips.

SERVICE

MAT 21:30

I go, sir; and [he] went not.

Matt. 21:30

A verbal willingness to serve, but a physical unwillingness don’t go together. Don’t be -hypocritical and show obedience when you don’t mean it in your heart. If God asks you to do something for Him say “Yes” and do it. He will give you the strength for it and you will be rewarded.

Example

TIT 2:7

In all things showing thyself a pattern of good works.

Titus 2:7

You will affect others in one of two ways - either for good or for bad. The Lord expects you to be an example for good. One way to show that example is in doing a good turn for someone else. There are so many who need your help. The new boy at school is lonely. You can befriend him and help him feel welcome. Invite him to Sunday school or a young people’s meeting. Before you go to bed tonight read Titus chapter 2 verses 1 through 10. Think about it.

Example: 2

1TI 4:12

Be thou an example of the believers, in word.

1 Tim. 4:12

How important it is to speak words that are good. So many (even those who say they are Christians) use terrible language. No cuss words or off-color words should escape your lips. Your language should show that you are a believer. That means we should talk as Christ talked - in love, compassion, and grace.

Be thou an example of the believers . . . in conversation.

In this verse the word “conversation” doesn’t mean speech. It’s a word that was used when the Bible was translated into English to mean the way you live. So let’s rephrase our verse: Be an example of the believers in the way you live. Other people should be able to read your life like a book. And what they should read is: I am a Christian - my life is Christ-like. What an example to follow. Keep it up!

Be thou an example of the believers . . . in charity [love].

Feelings of hatred toward another don’t have any place in a Christian’s life. We should all hate sin, as God does, but we should always care about other people and try to find ways to show the kindness of God to them. The Lord showed kindness to everyone. He never held a grudge. He never had bitter feelings towards those who had wronged Him. We should be just like Him.

Be thou an example of the believers . . . in faith.

It says in 2 Cor. 5:7, “We walk by faith, not by sight,” and in Romans 1:17, “The just shall live by faith.” This should be our practice too. Do you trust the Lord for His safekeeping and care? Or do you worry about what tomorrow may bring? A Christian living by faith is one who looks up to God each day, leaves his cares with Him, and goes on with life in peace and contentment.

Worship

NEH 8:6

And Ezra blessed the Lord. . . . And all the people . . . bowed their heads, and worshipped the Lord.

Neh. 8:6

What a happy state for God’s people to be in - to bow and worship in response to a prayer of thanksgiving. How much we have to thank the Lord for, especially today as we meet around Him to remember what it cost Him to make us fit for heaven. Our hearts should fill up with thanksgiving and praise when we think about Calvary and the awful death of the cross. Jesus died there for you and me. Let’s be thankful today as we remember Him in His death.

Service

HEB 12:28

Let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear.

Heb. 12:28

Acceptable service is doing God’s work God’s way. To dream up your own work and then say that you’re working for the Lord is not the Lord’s work at all. Spend time in prayer asking the Lord what He wants you to do for Him. It may not be what you expected - but you’ll get a reward for it if it’s done in reverence and godly fear.

EXAMPLE

1TI 4:12

Be thou an example of the believers . . . in purity.

1 Tim. 4:12

BEWARE young Christian! God EXPECTS you to be pure! Turn away from everything that is immoral, impure, indecent. Keep yourself pure.

Girls Only!

PRO 31:30

Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.

Pro. 31:30

Beauty is only skin deep, girls. Decent guys are looking for a beautiful character - not necessarily a beautiful face. A woman who fears (or respects) the Lord above all else is one who can be trusted and respected. If you want the guys to respect you then seek to follow God’s ways. If you paint yourself up to look just like the world, a guy who wants a godly wife won’t bother with you.

Problems

1PE 5:7

Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you.

1 Peter 5:7

Recently the brother of a friend of mine had an argument with his girlfriend. He was very distraught and, not knowing Jesus, he had nowhere to turn - so he turned a gun on himself. He recovered but he still has a great need - Jesus. If you belong to the Lord then you know One who will help you with your problems like no one else can. Won’t you ask Him to help you? He cares!

Safety

2CO 6:2

Behold, now is the day of salvation.

2 Cor. 6:2

During the Vietnam war a Christian soldier was sitting on a bench next to his best friend in the safety of base camp. During their conversation his friend quietly slumped over - dead. A sniper’s bullet had silently slipped through the air. Death can happen so quickly - so unexpectedly. Are you ready? Is your best friend ready?

Life: 1

1CO 9:24

Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.

1 Cor. 9:24

There’s only one first prize in a race. And it doesn’t simply go to the fastest or the strongest. No, there’s another condition. The winner must compete according to the rules. Any deviation and they are disqualified. It’s the same in the spiritual race of life. There’s a prize at the end, but only if you’ve played according to the rules - God’s rules. Check your life-style with the Bible. Live according to the rules.

Worship

JOB 1:20

Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshipped.

Job 1:20

Job worshipped! A remarkable statement considering that all his ten children had just been killed when the house they were in collapsed on them. And Job worshipped! Why? He recognized the power of God and the fact that His hand was in every detail of his life. I think it would be difficult for me to worship after a major catastrophe. But how about when things are going well? O, that we would spend time in God’s presence appreciating Him and His great love for us.

Service

JOH 13:17

If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

John 13:17

Happiness comes from simply doing what you know to be God’s will. When God makes something plain to you, then do what He has shown you, without doubting. I know from experience that the Lord gives strength for what He wants you to do and there is tremendous joy and peace in participating in the work of the Lord.

Longing

PSA 84:2

My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the Lord.

Psa. 84:2

Wow! That’s some longing! David just couldn’t wait to be with his Lord. We should be that way too. Heaven, and being with the Lord, is the greatest hope a Christian has. And it’s a certain hope - it’s guaranteed. It’s the only place of perfect and complete happiness. Let’s start fainting for heaven!

Guidance: 1

EXO 13:21

The Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way.

Exo. 13:21

The Israelites needed guidance. God gave it to them by leading them in a pillar of cloud. They could see and follow His leading. Spending time each day with the Lord seeking His guidance in your life is VERY important. We are living in a very difficult day. Decisions are not easy. Seek the Lord’s guidance diligently. He will guide you. Not necessarily in the way you want to go, but He will guide you.

Care: Part 2

EXO 2:11

[Moses] went out unto his brethren, and looked on their burdens.

Exo. 2:11

Moses cared about his people. They were struggling - he was free. They were in slavery - he was at liberty. Do you care about others - your unsaved relatives, your unsaved friends? Do more than just look on them - pray for them, give them a word from the Scriptures. The Lord can use it to set them free.

RIGHTEOUSNESS

2CH 34:1-2

Josiah was eight years old when he began to reign . . . and he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord.

2 Chron. 34:1, 2

Josiah’s father was wicked but Josiah chose to be different. He was a breath of fresh air, a refreshing oasis from evil, a lover of God. You may feel trapped by your past history or even your family background. Doing good or doing evil is your choice, however. Start right now and ask the Lord to help you to live for Him.

FELLOWSHIP

EZR 7:10

For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it.

Ezra 7:10

Perhaps you have wished from time to time that you knew the Lord better, or that you felt more peace in your heart - the peace that comes from knowing that Jesus is right beside you. This verse is one of many that encourage us to know Him better. It will probably require that you get up early to pray, to read, to REALLY seek Him. No other fellowship will result in joy like fellowship with Jesus.

Worship

MAT 2:11

And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child . . . and fell down, and worshipped Him.

Matt. 2:11

Seeing Jesus was enough to make the wise men fall before Him in worship. I know there are a lot of distractions when we meet around the Lord for worship. But try something. Try to see the Lord in your mind as He hung on Calvary, as He suffered for your sin, as He cried out to His God, as He gave up His life. If you can be there - right at Calvary and see it all happen, it really helps you to appreciate what He did. Worship will come automatically.

Service

HEB 10:24

And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works.

Heb. 10:24

Here’s a way you can serve the Lord - encourage others to show love and do good works. Of course, if you practice love and good works yourself, others will probably copy you. We spend so much time these days doing our own thing and loving ourselves that we forget that true service is in loving and doing good to others. Service is a great privilege. Don’t pass up the opportunity of a lifetime.

Peace: 1

PSA 119:165

Great peace have they which love Thy law: and nothing shall offend [stumble] them.

Psa. 119:165

Real peace is something that only a Christian can have. “Great peace” is promised to those who love the Word and those that do it. Following the Lord and reading His Word are not things that we can go about half-heartedly. Ask the Lord to help you and then decide (yes, it’s up to you) to give Him everything you’ve got!

Rest

EXO 2:15

[Moses] sat down by a well.

Exo. 2:15

Moses was afraid! Pharaoh was after his life. So he ran away - and we find him sitting by a well. How we need to rest by the Well. We get so busy with school, work, sports and chores, that it’s hard to get spiritual rest. Sit down by the Well today and spend a few minutes drinking of Christ.

Healing

MAR 8:22

They . . . besought Him to touch him.

Mark 8:22

O, for a touch from the Lord! How wonderful to be touched by Him. His touch brings life. It brings healing. It brings joy. In our verse today the touch of Jesus brought sight to a blind man. Let Jesus touch your eyes to see His beauty. Let Him place His hands on you and fill you with His love.

Dear Young People, We’re beginning another year of CARELINES! Some of you wrote to us last year and were a real encouragement to us. We’re so glad that you’re getting something out of this calendar. We’ve changed the format a little this time. Hope you like it. If you have topics that you would like some help on, write to us. We’ll try and find a verse to cover the situation.

Perhaps this year will see us all together in heaven. The signs are everywhere that the Lord is coming. Keep yourselves in the love of God and watching for His Son. May the Lord bless you in your life for Him.

Honor

2TI 2:20

In a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth.

2 Tim. 2:20

The verse goes on to say, “and some to honor and some to dishonor. If a man therefore purge himself from these [that is, the vessels unto dishonor], he shall be a vessel unto honor.” Your friends can make you a vessel unto dishonor. Who are your friends? Some will try to live a life to please the Lord, and some may be involved in worldly activities. At the end of his life Solomon’s heart was turned away from the Lord by his wives. He became a vessel to dishonor. The same could happen to you because of your friends. Be careful.

Time With God

EXO 3:1

[Moses] led the flock to the back side of the desert, and came to the mountain of God.

Exo. 3:1

You must spend time with God, especially as “normal” life seems to get more and more hectic. Where was it that Moses found God and spoke with Him? At the back side of the desert, in a quiet place, away from the crowd. Find a quiet place today and spend some time listening to what God has to say. He wants to talk with you. Spend time with God.

Worship

MAT 14:33

Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped Him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.

Matt. 14:33

Worship was the response of the disciples when they saw the power of the Lord Jesus. But they didn’t worship Him because He was powerful, but because He was the Son of God. They worshipped Him for who He was. You may worship the Lord because He was a good man, Someone who was kind, Someone who could perform miracles. But you should worship Him because He is God’s Son. Let’s worship Him in spirit and in truth today.

Service

GEN 40:4

Joseph . . . served them.

Gen. 40:4

This is a remarkable statement. Joseph was a prisoner, put in prison as a result of false accusation. And instead of being bitter and hateful he spent his time serving other prisoners. This is just great. It is a lesson to us that God can use us ANYWHERE if we are willing to be used. Let’s be like Joseph and serve others.

Safety: 2

PRO 3:21-23

My son . . . keep sound wisdom and discretion. . . . Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble.

Pro. 3:21, 23

Be discerning! Use wisdom in your decisions. Think and pray before you act. If you follow this then you can live your Christian life with confidence. Those that make rash decisions nearly always wish they had not done so. Wisdom and discretion (or judgment and discernment) are very important.

Trouble

PSA 46:1

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Psa. 46:1

Yes, God is there beside you when trouble comes. When Peter was walking on the lake and he started to sink, the Lord reached out after he called, and saved him. Jesus was right there. Even now, the Lord is right there beside you. It may not seem like He’s there sometimes, but He is - and just waiting for your call.

Guidance: 2

EXO 13:21

The Lord went before them . . . by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light.

Exo. 13:21

The Israelites were travelling through strange country - they’d never been there before. So the Lord provided a night light - something they couldn’t miss. The Lord has provided us with a night light too - His Word. Spend a little time tonight before you go to sleep reading a few verses from your Bible. “It’s a light unto my feet,” David said in one of his Psalms. And in a world that’s growing increasingly dark we need God’s Word more and more for guidance.

Dress

RUT 3:3

Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee.

Ruth 3:3

Ruth was about to go to see the man who would one day choose her to be his wife. And so she got ready to be suitably perfumed and dressed when she met him. When we go to meet our Bridegroom, the Lord Jesus, we too should get ready. It shows a measure of respect to be suitably dressed. After the demons had been cast out of Legion he got dressed before he sat at the Lord’s feet. Let’s dress decently in the Lord’s presence.

Trials

EXO 6:9

They hearkened not . . . for anguish of spirit.

Exo. 6:9

The troubles were so bad that the children of Israel couldn’t accept the message that Moses had from the Lord. Perhaps we get that way sometimes. Trials are so bad that we can’t read our Bible, we can’t pray, and we don’t hear God speaking. Find a place to be alone today, and sit quietly and let the Lord fill your heart with peace. Then listen to His voice.

Worship

MAR 5:6

But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped Him.

Mark 5:6

This man was eager. He had seen the Lord, even from a distance, and couldn’t get to Him fast enough. When you really see Jesus you too will be eager to fall at His feet in worship. Perhaps you’re so busy you didn’t even recognize the Lord. How thrilled the Lord must have been to see this man in our verse running to meet Him. How it thrills the Lord’s heart today to see His own gathered around Him for the purpose of worshipping Him. Let your heart overflow today as you meet with Jesus.

Service

1CO 15:58

Be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.

1 Cor. 15:58

For many of us it’s hard to start a job and then stick to it. When Hudson Taylor, missionary to China, said good-bye to his wife as she died by his side, he knelt down and thanked the Lord for their many years together and for taking her home to be with Him in heaven. He then asked the Lord to help him carry on the work in China. His love for his wife was exceeded only by his love for, and devotion to, the Lord Jesus.

Behavior: Part 1

1TH 2:10

Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblamably we behaved ourselves among you that believe.

1 Thess. 2:10

Good behavior is so important! There are few things that will do more to spoil your testimony to those around than bad behavior. People watch you - your way of life, your speech, your actions and reactions, and they judge your Christianity by what they see and hear. Be careful to maintain good behavior.

Envy

PRO 14:30

A sound heart is the life of the flesh: but envy the rottenness of the bones.

Pro. 14:30

Jealousy or envy can be caused by many different circumstances. Maybe someone not as good as you made the ball team and you didn’t. The other secretary got the promotion instead of you. It eats away inside your heart and causes bitter thoughts and unkind actions and words. If you take everything as from the Lord there won’t be any room for envy. Accept whatever happens as God’s will for you and you will have peace and contentment. Envy is indeed the rottenness of the bones.

Depression: 1

PSA 130:1

Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O Lord.

Psa. 130:1

Have you ever been to this point - in the depths of despair; you don’t know what to do, where to turn, where to go? Jesus is waiting to hear from you. Call out to Him! He cares so much about you in your trouble. He wants to relieve the heartache and give you peace. Turn to Him. He alone can help you.

Separation: 1

MAR 7:33 MAR 8:23

He took him aside from the multitude.

Mark 7:33

He . . . led him out of the town.

Mark 8:23

In order for the Lord to work a full miracle and give you liberty He will have to lead you away from the “security” that man has created. It was away from the crowd, away from the town, where the two in our verses were blessed. You need to be willing to let the Lord take you outside man’s system to a place of quietness where you can really enjoy Him. Notice that the Lord “led” him. Jesus didn’t push. Our Savior is very kind.

Faithfulness: 1

1TH 3:8

For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.

1 Thess. 3:8

Nothing thrills an older Christian more than seeing a younger one “standing fast in the Lord.” By that I mean that you live for the Lord, you remain faithful to Him and His Word even though others may not. It’s a real encouragement to us to see you wanting to please the Lord. Don’t give up. Jesus is coming soon. Stand fast!

Worship

LUK 24:52

And they worshipped Him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy.

Luke 24:52

The disciples had just watched Jesus go up into heaven. During the previous three-and-a-half years they had come to know Him as the Son of God. They had seen Him die. They had witnessed His resurrection for forty days. And now they had seen His glorious ascension to heaven. No wonder they worshipped Him. No wonder their hearts were full of joy. Even now, almost two thousand years later, our hearts should be full of praise and worship as we consider the Lord’s birth, His life, His death, His resurrection, His ascension, and soon - His coming again.

Service

ROM 12:6

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us.

Rom. 12:6

The gifts mentioned in Romans 12:6-8 are gifts of service - so that we are able to help and build each other up. The exhorting talked about in verse 8 is rendered by some as an “encourager.” Perhaps you have this gift. Being of service in this way often goes on behind the scenes, but it is extremely important. Ask the Lord to guide you in how you may be of service to others as an encourager.

Kindness: 1

PSA 41:1

Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble.

Psa. 41:1

There are many verses that show that the Lord has a special concern for the poor. As Christians we too should have a concern for them and try to help them whenever we can. We live in a day when we spend almost everything on our own hobbies or for our own pleasure. At the same time there are many who have nothing. In downtown Toronto a couple of years ago I watched a young down- and-outer eating a discarded hot dog out of the trash. Let’s consider the poor. God does.

The Tongue

PSA 39:1

I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle.

Psa. 39:1

We are trying to train a horse. He lets us lead him and we can ride him a little too. But the first time we tried to put in his bit he wasn’t too excited about it. And when a horse doesn’t want to - he won’t! The bit holds the tongue down. That’s what we need - to hold our tongue down and not say anything that will dishonor the Lord. Put on a bit and bridle before you go out today.

Help

PSA 124:1-4

If it had not been the Lord who was on our side . . . then the waters had overwhelmed us.

Psa. 124:1, 4

Yes, trouble can get too much for us. Thank God that He is on our side. The Apostle Paul wrote: If God be for us, who can be against us? The answer of course is - nothing. Nothing can overpower us with Christ on our side. Maybe you are going through deep waters right now. The Lord is there with you to help you through. Look up! He’s always there.

Purity

1JO 3:3

Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.

1 John 3:3

What hope? The hope of the Lord’s return! This should make us want to stay pure. The Lord is going to take us to a place of absolute purity. The Lord is pleased when He sees His own seeking to live a pure life while they are waiting for Him to come. Make a special effort to clean up your thoughts, your actions, your words, your relationships so that you will be conformed to the image of the Lord Jesus Christ. He is pure through and through. Our desire should be to be that way too.

Unfruitfulness

MAT 13:22

The deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.

Matt. 13:22

Satan is very busy trying to stifle the words of the scriptures in your heart and mind. One of his tricks is to get you thinking about, and if possible obsessed with, money. The world has plenty to offer - plenty of ways to become totally occupied with money and being rich. The lottery is one technique the devil has developed. The Bible calls this “the deceitfulness of riches.” Beware, young Christian, that you don’t become an unfruitful worker for the Lord because of your occupation with money.

Worship

JOH 9:38

Lord, I believe. And he worshipped Him.

John 9:38

The blind man in this chapter went from knowing about Jesus as a “man” to believing in Him as his “Lord.” And when he found Jesus as Lord he worshipped Him. The same will be true of you. When you know Jesus as Lord of your life you will want to spend time in worship. He is worthy of it.

Service: GAL 5:13

GAL 5:13

By love serve one another.

Gal. 5:13

The Lord’s commandment to His disciples was that they “love one another.” Along with the commandment He gave them the power to fulfill it. He sent His Spirit to indwell them and everyone since who has believed in Jesus as Lord and Savior. Now through love we can serve one another. Service without love is an ungenuine service. Love makes you care for those you serve. Without love there’s no caring and the service is ineffectual. Ask the Lord to increase that Godly capacity to love even when the object is unlovable. That’s the way God is. Then your service will be beneficial.

Fear: 1

PRO 10:24

The fear of the wicked, it shall come upon him: but the desire of the -righteous shall be granted.

Pro. 10:24

It is often true that the thing that man fears most will overtake him. It is certainly true that death will finally claim everyone and many are afraid to die. Only the believer in the Lord Jesus can have peace in the face of death because for him it is “absent from the body - present with the Lord.” Are you afraid to die? Then perhaps it’s because you’re not saved. Accept Jesus today as your Savior and get His peace in your life.

Praise: 1

PSA 103:21

Bless ye the Lord . . . ye ministers of His, that do His pleasure.

Psa. 103:21

Nothing pleases God more than to hear us praising His Son. He has made Jesus heir of all things. Every knee will bow to Him. What a privilege it is to be able to praise Him now from a thankful heart. What a Savior we have! Let’s thank Him today for saving us.

Salvation: 2

ACT 10:4

Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.

Acts 10:4

Here was an Italian soldier whose prayers had been heard and whose alms (giving to the poor) had been noticed by God. But God wanted Cornelius to know that for complete blessing he would need to accept Jesus as his Lord and Savior. So Peter was sent to preach the gospel and the group of Gentiles that Cornelius had invited to his house all believed. Kindness and devoutness is not enough for salvation. No, you MUST believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and His death at Calvary. Have you?

Depression: 2

PSA 120:1

In my distress I cried unto the Lord, and He heard me.

Psa. 120:1

Trouble at school? Are you taking a class that’s too hard for you? Perhaps you can’t find a good friend. The Lord really cares and wants to help you in your trouble. One of His own disciples betrayed Him for money to the religious leaders of the day. “He knows what sorest trials mean, for He has felt the same.” The secret is knowing what to do. David had it figured out. He cried to the Lord and he knew that the Lord heard him. Do that. Then you’ll have peace. The trouble may still be there, but the Lord is with you in it. Trust Him!

Hard Work

PRO 13:11

Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labor shall increase.

Prov. 13:11

Hard work never killed anyone! That’s an expression I remember hearing many times. The trouble is there are many get-rich-quick schemes out there to tempt us not to work, and more often than not they come to nothing. A few years ago several people invested heavily in a get-rich-quick scheme - and lost everything (tens of thousands of dollars) overnight. It’s much more honorable to work for what you have, rather than to get something for nothing.

Worship: ACT 17:24-25

ACT 17:24-25

God . . . dwelleth not in temples made with hands; neither is worshipped with men’s hands.

Acts 17:24, 25

No, God is worshipped in our hearts. Man has built architecturally beautiful monuments “for the Lord’s glory.” But He’s not worshipped with men’s hands. He looks inside people’s hearts to see what’s there. Every seat in every church building may be filled every Sunday with “worshippers” who go there to be entertained, but much of their worship never reaches heaven. It says in John’s gospel that we must worship God “in spirit and in truth.” Worship Him from your heart today.

Service

JOH 12:26

If any man serve Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall also My servant be.

John 12:26

Service for the Lord requires obedience and dedication. First, obedience in worship. We must follow the Lord to the place of worship chosen by Him. Second, obedience in conduct. We need to act just like the Lord did when He was here. Lastly, service may require that we lay down our lives. We must be willing to give up EVERYTHING for Him - even our life. That’s true service.

Pride: 1

PRO 13:10

Only by pride cometh contention.

Prov. 13:10

It says in another Proverb that God hates even a proud look. You’ll never find a gentle, humble person causing a fight. Pride causes contention (or arguments and disagreements), because the proud person thinks they are right and everyone else is wrong. If you have a tendency to be proud ask the Lord to help you overcome it and put it in the place of death.

The Poor

PRO 14:31

He that oppresseth the poor -reproacheth his Maker: but he that honoreth Him hath mercy on the poor.

Prov. 14:31

Here are two attitudes that we can have towards the poor. We can oppress (or despise) them, or we can show mercy and compassion. Showing mercy is automatic if we honor the Lord. That’s because we have His nature as Christians, and He showed mercy on the poor. Let’s be careful to reflect God’s love in our dealings with those that have little of this world’s goods. A kind word means a lot. Honor the poor. Christ died for them too.

Restoration

JOH 18:27

Peter then denied again; and immediately the cock crew.

John 18:27

Peter had really “blown it” this time. After promising allegiance to his Lord he now had denied Him three times. The crowing of the rooster served only to remind him that the Lord said this would happen. Peter was through, finished, washed up, right? Wrong! The Lord restored Peter and gave him a great work to do. Confess your faults (and your sins), ask for His help, and DON’T GIVE UP.

Devotion: 1

JOH 20:11-13

But Mary stood without at the sepulcher weeping. . . . They say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my Lord.

John 20:11, 13

Mary Magdalene felt a great loss when Jesus was taken from her. Hers was not the loss merely of an acquaintance, or a friend, or the “master”. No, it was “my Lord.” Think about it! You may know Him as your Savior and believe in Him. But knowing Him as “my Lord” means much more. It means giving your life to Him, doing His will, not yours, and following close beside Him. Not because you have to or because Christians are supposed to but only because you want to.

Love: 1

JOH 13:34

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another.

John 13:34

A new commandment! The Old Testament also told its adherents to love - to love their neighbor as themselves. But they couldn’t keep it. Inside the Christian, though, is the God-given capability to keep this new commandment. Yes, the new life given when you believed on Jesus can and does love. And it loves without expecting anything in return. The Lord would not ask us to do something that is not possible to do. He has given the power to put His new commandment into practice. Let’s do it!

Worship: GEN 22:5

GEN 22:5

I and the lad will go yonder and worship, and come again to you.

Gen. 22:5

Abraham and Isaac went to perform the highest act of worship that a father has been called upon to perform - to offer his own son in sacrifice to God. This was Abraham’s ultimate test. Would he go through with it? You know he did. Abraham, “the friend of God,” one who acted in faith all his life seemed to know that somehow God would give Isaac back. And He did! A substitute was found! But there was no substitute for God’s Son. Doesn’t that make you want to worship?

Service: JOH 13:16

JON 13:16

The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.

John 13:16

Christ was hated; we will be also. He was misunderstood; so will we be. He came to serve; we should too. The Lord is our perfect example. What a privilege to copy Him in every way. We can never make a mistake if we copy the Lord Jesus in everything. He has sent us to do His work. We are not greater than He, but we can and should do the work that He has fitted us for and called us to do.

Commitment

1KI 15:14

Asa’s heart was perfect with the Lord all his days.

1 Kings 15:14

Another way to say this is “Asa’s heart was fully committed to the Lord all his life.” Two words really stand out in this - fully and all. Compare this to Solomon who started out well but finished in shambles. David is another example who made a very serious mistake because his commitment quit for a while. That’s the way it is with Satan. As soon as our commitment to the Lord fades, the devil’s right there with a whopping big temptation to make us trip up. Let’s make Asa’s example a motto for ourselves - to be committed to the Lord all our life.

Salvation: 3

JOH 11:27

I believe that Thou art the Christ, the Son of God.

John 11:27

What a tremendous confession. Martha hit the nail on the head with this one. And there has been no change. This confession is still absolutely necessary in the conversion experience. Romans 10 verse 9 tells you to confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord. God wants to hear your verbal confession that His Son, Jesus, is the Lord of your life. Then, if you believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved!

Life: 2

JOH 10:10

I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

John 10:10

Unsaved man thinks that he’s having fun if he can drink himself silly at a party. But the next day life, with its problems and frustrations, is still there. Jesus came to give the abundant life; life full and overflowing; a happy life; one in which there is Someone who really does care for us and wants to carry our sorrows and our burdens (for Christians do have them sometimes). Nothing that man offers can give the peace that a Christian has. A girl at college told me one time, “I wish I had the peace you have.” That’s only possible by trusting in Jesus. Do you have abundant life?

Dedication: 1

LUK 9:23

If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.

Luke 9:23

Following Christ requires dedication. Half-hearted following will not do. Something (no, all) of self must be given up. Deny, take up, follow. To deny means to give up something that pleases us. To take up the cross is putting into practice the service that the Lord has given us to do. This needs to be done on a daily basis. And then we need to follow the leading of the Lord in whatever path He has chosen for us. This is the happy path for the Christian.

Gossip

PRO 26:20

Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth.

Prov. 26:20

Interesting little comparison, isn’t it? How much damage is done by telling tales, by passing on “juicy” bits of gossip. And you know something? Many times what you hear through the grapevine is not true anyway. There are some who love to make trouble. Let’s change the cliché “The buck stops here” to “The gossip stops here.” Never pass on anything about anyone - unless it’s good.

Worship: JOS 5:14

JOS 5:14

And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and said unto him, What saith my lord unto his servant?

Josh. 5:14

Joshua showed what he thought of himself when he came into the presence of a heavenly being. He humbled himself and was ready to listen. How much better for us to humble ourselves (that is to put aside everything that we think we are) when we come into the presence of the Son of God to worship Him. And we should be ready to listen, too. Listen for the leading of the Spirit, listen to what the hymns say, listen to what Scriptures are read. Our worship sometimes is so superficial. Let’s be real.

Service: 2TI 3:17

2TI 3:17

That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

2 Tim. 3:17

The Lord’s plan for His people is that they will do good works. But to be ready to do them we have to be in the right state - that is, we are living and behaving in the way God likes. If you read the prior verse (16) in your Bible you will see that we need all of Scripture and we need to apply it before we can be perfect (or mature) and ready for good works. Good works without a Godly life are wasted time. Live your life right before God first (starting NOW) - then you can serve properly.

Flattery

PRO 26:28

A flattering mouth worketh ruin.

Prov. 26:28

Flattery is defined as “To compliment unduly, or over praise.” To praise someone when praise is due is right. But to praise someone for something they’ve done improperly or for some “talent” that they don’t really have is, to say the least, unkind. In the long term it is to court disaster. Foolishness and unwise actions should be reproved, not praised. Be careful not to flatter.

Laziness

PRO 26:14

As the door turneth upon his hinges, so doth the slothful upon his bed.

Prov. 26:14

A very apt description of the lazy person. Proverbs has many verses about laziness. Here are a few: The sluggard will not plow by reason of the cold; therefore shall he beg in harvest, and have nothing. (Prov. 20:4.)

The slothful man hideth his hand in his bosom, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again. (Prov. 19:24 and 26:15.)

An idle soul shall suffer hunger. (Prov. 19:15.)

Read Proverbs 24 verses 30 through 34.

Don’t be lazy!

Peacemakers

ROM 14:19

Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace.

Rom. 14:19

What things make for peace? Any of the characteristics of the Lord Jesus. The world would love to make universal peace right now. That’s been their goal as long as I can remember. But they’ll never do it. They’re missing the one ingredient to make it happen. That’s Jesus. Without Him peace is impossible. Following Him will make us peacemakers. But it requires 100% obedience.

Building up

ROM 14:19

Let us therefore follow after . . . things wherewith one may edify another.

Rom. 14:19

Wouldn’t it be nice if everyone practiced this? To edify means to build up. How easy it is to knock down. How long it takes to build up. I saw an article once about a skyscraper demolition specialist. By placing explosives in the correct location on the foundation pillars this man could cause a multi-story building, that took months to build, to disintegrate into a heap of rubble in seconds. So it is with us. One sharp word can destroy a friendship that took years to build. Let’s edify one another today.

Love: 2

ROM 13:10

Love worketh no ill to his neighbor: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

Rom. 13:10

We often think that our neighbor is the person who lives next door or just down the street. Jesus taught that our neighbor is anyone we meet - anyone with whom we have contact - anyone who needs our help or to whom we can show kindness. Our neighborhood just got pretty big, didn’t it? Love shows no unkindness - it works no ill. As it says in 1 Corinthians 13, “Love seeks not her own.” In other words, it is not selfish. Helped your neighbor lately?

Worship: 1CO 16:29

1CO 16:29

Give unto the Lord the glory due unto His name: bring an offering, and come before Him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.

1 Chron. 16:29

There’s a multitude of words that can be written about this verse. Although it’s an Old Testament verse, it’s not until we get to New Testament times (now) that this verse can really come true. Holiness has been made possible through the death of the Lord Jesus. And to God holiness is a beautiful thing. So we really can come and worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. Bring an offering - that’s the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His name. Giving the Lord first place, and praising Him for Calvary, is giving glory to Him. Keep these things in mind today as you remember the Lord in His death.

Service

JOH 12:26

If any man serve Me, him will My Father honor.

John 12:26

Service for the Lord Jesus brings joy to God the Father’s heart. You will be honored by the Father for your work for the Son. Of course your labor for Him must be in line with Scriptural principles. You can’t expect a prize if you don’t play according to the rules. Serve the Lord with all your energy. Leave the results to Him.

Contentment: 1

ECC 4:6

Better is a handful with quietness, than both the hands full with travail and vexation of spirit.

Eccl. 4:6

Frustration is the opposite of contentment. Solomon’s wisdom tells us that to be content with a little is so much better than to be rich but frustrated and with troubles. One of the more difficult things to resist today is the desire for more. You may have to find out on your own that to be full of this world’s goods does not fill your heart. Only Christ can do that. Be content with what the Lord has given you and be filled with Him.

Talking

ECC 5:2

Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter anything before God.

Eccl. 5:2

I saw a cartoon once of ex-President Nixon with his mouth open and footprints across his tongue! Consider before you speak. Think about what you will say before you say it. Talk is cheap. But the after-effects can be VERY costly. Another aspect of the verse is - don’t make promises or commitments (vows, if you will) that you can’t keep or wish very much that you’d never made.

Confession

PRO 30:32

If thou hast thought evil, lay thine hand upon thy mouth.

Prov. 30:32

We all have wrong thoughts at times. Sometimes a lot. And we often have evil thoughts. The advice here in our verse today is good. You had an evil thought? Hold it in. Don’t let it slip out of your mouth. God doesn’t want you to contaminate anyone else. And, too, you don’t want Satan to know what you’re thinking. He can hear words but not thoughts. May the Lord help you to control your thoughts so that they are pleasing to Him. But when you do err - keep your mouth closed!

The Tongue: PRO 10:20

PRO 10:20

The tongue of the just is as choice silver.

Prov. 10:20

Choice silver is beautiful. So is the tongue of the just. In New Testament terms this verse would say, “The tongue of the believer is as choice silver.” Notice that it doesn’t say that it should be, but that it is. That changes things, doesn’t it? Nothing should ever be spoken by the Christian that does not bring honor to the Lord. Everything we say must be beautiful. Watch your tongue!

Wisdom: PRO 8:17

PRO 8:17

I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.

Prov. 8:17

This verse is talking about wisdom. It can be used about the Lord, too. But the principle is wisdom. It is so important to make wise choices. The Lord will give you wisdom if you ask Him for it. The younger you start the quicker you’ll grow up. Satan is attacking from every angle. We need wisdom to know how to resist him.

Worship: PSA 5:7

PSA 5:7

But as for me, I will come into Thy house in the multitude of Thy mercy: and in Thy fear will I worship.

Psa. 5:7

You can praise the Lord anywhere, anytime. But it is especially wonderful to Him when His people meet together collectively to worship, acknowledging His headship over His Church. Again, as in many verses, we have reverence connected with worship. You can’t worship the Lord acceptably if you are flippant, or thinking about other things, or talking to the person next to you. No, the Lord has to have first place. We must honor Him for who He is. Remember that as you meet with the Lord today.

We pray that “your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thess. 5:23.

Service: JOH 13:15

JOH 13:15

For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.

John 13:15

Jesus set us a perfect example. How many times we fall short! But He has not made the example impossible to follow because we have the Spirit in us that gives us the power to succeed. Try today to follow Jesus’ example. He cared for His own and washed the contamination of the day’s travel from their feet. You too can wash the contamination of the world from other people’s feet by the Scriptures and encouraging them in the Lord’s things.

Courtship

AMO 3:3

Can two walk together, except they be agreed?

Amos 3:3

Unity in spiritual interest is absolutely essential to a happy courtship and marriage. For starters both of you MUST be Christians. For a Christian to court a non-Christian is courting disaster. It will not work - unless you, the Christian, bury your Christianity so that it won’t be seen. But then you’ll be unhappy. If you’re “going” with an unbeliever - drop them - today. Yes, it’s hard - you like them, you may even love them, but you cannot expect God’s blessing in your life when you have an unequal yoke.

Honesty

ROM 13:13

Let us walk honestly, as in the day . . . not in strife and envying.

Rom. 13:13

The Lord calls for His own to walk honestly. There is a tremendous amount of cheating, dishonesty, fighting, and jealousy in the world. Christians are to be different. You may be the only one in the class at school who didn’t take hidden notes into a test but be the only one. It may cost you the top of the class honor but at least you can hold your head up and know that you got your grade honestly - and (much more important) you honored the Lord. The reward for your honesty will be given by the Lord and it’ll be worth far more than any degree that you might get here through dishonest means.

Reality

PRO 27:6 MAR 14:45

Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful.

Prov. 27:6

[Judas] goeth straightway to Him . . . and kissed Him.

Mark 14:45

Here we have the true, faithful friend (Jesus) and the deceitful enemy (Judas Iscariot). Judas kissed Jesus in greeting as an outward sign of friendship. But his heart was empty and cold. He was a deceiver. Be genuine, young person. God wants reality.

Devotion: 2

JOH 12:3

Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus.

John 12:3

Mary’s love and devotion to her Lord led her to give of her ointment. Perhaps this may seem a small thing. Did you realize that the value of the spikenard was approximately one year’s wages? Would you or I be willing to make any sacrifice that would come close to matching this?

Humility: 1

JOH 12:3

Mary . . . wiped His feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odor of the ointment.

John 12:3

Yesterday we noticed just how much Mary’s gift cost her. On top of that she then stooped down to wipe Jesus’ feet - normally servant’s work. The result was that the whole house was filled with the aroma. Acts of sincere devotion on our part not only please our Lord but often result in blessing (encouragement) to those around us.

Worship: MAT 17:8

MAT 17:8

When they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only.

Matt. 17:8

What a sight! Three scared men looked up and saw only Jesus there on the top of the mountain with themselves. If you get a view of Jesus only, young person, life will take on a different perspective. As the song says, “And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.” Jesus brightens the view of heaven and the things of this life seem less important. As you meet with others today in the worship of the Lord, let Him lift your eyes up so that you can see only Him. You’ll worship - you won’t be able to help it.

Service: JOH 4:34

JOH 4:34

Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me.

John 4:34

The Lord’s whole life was one of devoted service to His Father. The end of that service was a service that no other could do. He bore the punishment for our sin, died, and shed His blood. His was the ultimate sacrifice. “He became obedient unto death, and that the death of the cross.” That’s how well He served. Are we willing to do the same? Our hearts’ desire should be to do His will - whatever that may be. We have the example. God wants us, as His children, to follow that example.

Emptiness

PRO 14:13

Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; and the end of that mirth is heaviness.

Prov. 14:13

Does this verse describe your life? I hope not! But if it does there is good news for you. The empty joy that comes through alcohol, drugs, immorality, or partying all the time can be EXCHANGED for real, genuine joy - by knowing Jesus and trusting Him as your Savior. He is the healer of broken hearts and lives. Acts 16:31 says to “believe on the Lord Jesus Christ” and you will be saved.

Contentment: 2

PRO 30:8

Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me.

Prov. 30:8

This is a hard prayer to pray. But it’s a good one. To be content with what the Lord has given will save so much frustration and trouble. Spiritual growth (that’s the result of eating convenient food) is so much more important than worldly wealth. All the things in this world are going to be burned up. Only what’s done for Jesus will escape the fire. Reading this calendar will give you a small spiritual vitamin pill each day. But we can’t get too much of the Scriptures. Don’t forget to read a portion daily.

Good Cheer

JOH 16:33

In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

John 16:33

The world still cares nothing for Christ. But the powerful influence of the god of this world has been overcome. Satan may cause us to go through tribulation because of our faith, but remember that Jesus conquered Satan at Calvary. Each believer has Jesus as his Captain in glory and the Spirit living within his heart. Satan cannot conquer that combination.

Speech: TIT 2:7-8

TIT 2:7-8

Showing thyself a pattern of good works . . . sound speech, that cannot be condemned.

Titus 2:7, 8

Our speech shows what we believe. We should always have our tongues under control and our speech should be with grace seasoned, as needed, with salt. In addition our speech should be trustworthy. The Bible tells us to let our yes be yes, and our no, no. That’s pretty straight talk. Sound speech is a characteristic that every Christian should show.

Compassion

MAR 8:1-2

Jesus . . . saith . . . I have compassion.

Mark 8:1, 2

Compassion is such a wonderful quality to have. There are so many who hurt - life is so lonely and cruel without the Lord. You can be an encouragement and a witness by showing compassion - showing that you care. Of course, there are many Christians, even in your age group, that need a compassionate friend. Be like Jesus today and every day. Show compassion.

Worship: DAN 3:18

DAN 3:18

We will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

Dan. 3:18

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego where close friends of Daniel. Here in this chapter of Daniel’s book we find the three friends facing the greatest challenge of their young lives. Would they, or would they not bow and worship a man-made image of gold? Their decision was immovable. No matter what the consequences they refused to bow and worship! What a tremendous example for each of us. Are we prepared to stand against everyone else because of our love for the Lord? You say, “But we don’t have idols that we’re forced to bow down to!” No, but there are many idols that we voluntarily bow down to. There are so many things that come between us and the Lord. Be careful what you worship.

Service

HEB 6:10

For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have showed toward His name.

Heb. 6:10

What was this service that God would not forget? Ministering to (or caring for) the saints. Yes, God places high marks on service to other Christians. We sometimes think that service involves working for those in the world who need our help. But saints need help and encouragement too. There are many young people who are hurting and lonely and don’t know what to do or where to turn. You can help them. You can be a friend to them. You can listen to their hurts and pray with them. A true child of God will appreciate someone praying with and for them. Serve God today by serving the saints.

Subjection

TIT 3:1

Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates.

Titus 3:1

Subjection to authority is one of God’s principles and the mark of a Christian. God has placed in positions of power those that He wants there - whether we like them or not. Therefore we need to obey them. In a democratic society where demonstrations and protest marches are commonplace let’s be careful that we maintain a spirit of subjection to our leaders.

Evil Speaking

TIT 3:1-2

Put them in mind . . . to speak evil of no man.

Titus 3:1, 2

Evil speaking or slander is so easy to do. You get talking with a group of friends and before you know it you’re discussing someone and perhaps saying unkind things about them, even malicious gossip. Sure, there are people that we naturally don’t get along with or are not close to, but that’s no reason to speak evil of them. But our verse goes much farther than that. It tells us to speak no evil of anybody, whether we know them or not. Turn away from gossip-mongers and speak only those things that edify (or build up).

Gentleness

TIT 3:1-2

Put them in mind to be . . . gentle.

Titus 3:1, 2

A gentle person reflects the same quality that was seen all the time in the Lord Jesus. He was a gentle person. He was approachable. People were not afraid of Him. He always replied kindly to questions, oftentimes even to those who deliberately tried to trip Him in His words. The Lord didn’t come to judge the world - He came to save it. We have not been left here to judge people either but to bring the gospel to them. We are dealing with offendable souls. Be gentle.

Contentment: 3

PRO 15:16

Better is little with the fear of the Lord, than great treasure and trouble therewith.

Prov. 15:16

Howard Hughes, one of the world’s richest men, spent his last years in total paranoia and misery. He was scared to death that someone would try to poison his food to kill him. He was petrified of getting germs and so becoming ill. He lived in fear all the time. How much better it is to love the Lord, enjoy Him and the prospect of heaven, and be content with whatever He has given us, no matter how small it may be. Don’t be like Howard Hughes.

Happiness: 1

PRO 15:15

He that is of a merry heart hath a continual feast.

Prov. 15:15

It makes you happy to be around a happy person. Not one who’s a clown and has to be making jokes all the time - but just a happy person. (You don’t have to make any noise, but you can still be happy.) A happy person is usually contented, and his happiness and contentment will rub off on others. A happy person will be one that’s at peace, too. I know a young man who is miserable - all the time. Nothing makes him happy. And guess what? He’s always alone! No one wants to be with him. As Christians we should be happy. Let it show!

Praise: 2

PSA 100:4

Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise.

Psalm 100:4

Praise and worship and thanksgiving all go together. We worship the Lord for who He is. We praise Him for what He has done. We thank Him for what He has given to us. So today as we meet with the Lord to remember Him in His death, let’s remember to praise Him. We can praise Him at any time, of course. But it is especially nice to praise Him collectively as we meet in His presence. Thanks, praise, worship.

Service: EXO 36:2

EXO 36:2

And Moses called. . . every one whose heart stirred him up to come unto the work to do it.

Ex. 36:2

God had asked for volunteers to give material for the building of the tabernacle in the wilderness. Special ones were then called by Moses to come and put the material together to form the tabernacle. And among those that he called were any “whose heart stirred him up” - those who really wanted to quit their normal work (temporarily) and help to build the tabernacle. How good when God works in your heart to do a work for Him and to see you respond in willingness to serve. Be before the Lord about a work for Him. He’ll lead you where He wants you to go. Let your heart stir you up for the work.

Wisdom: PRO 16:20

PRO 16:20

He that handleth a matter wisely shall find good.

Prov. 16:20

We pray sometimes that the Lord will give wisdom to our leaders so that they will make correct decisions. But how about us? We need wisdom too. As a young person you will be making some pretty major decisions: which subject to specialize in, whether to go to college, what career to pursue, who to marry, where to live. These are decisions that will affect your whole life. You can go to the source of all wisdom, the Lord Jesus, and seek His guidance in these things. Then you will find good. No regrets. But it takes wisdom, the wisdom found in the Word of God.

Our Will

JOH 5:40

Ye will not come to Me, that ye might have life.

John 5:40

Our will gets in the way. The Lord has a hard time with us because we think we know better. We want to do what we want to do. We want to go where we want to go. There are so many situations where our will hinders the Lord’s will in our life. In our verse today those that the Lord was talking to wanted to find “life” but they wouldn’t come to the Lord to get it. Is that you? Salvation and a full, happy life are only possible by turning from your will and coming to the Lord.

God’s Will: 1

PSA 143:10

Teach me to do Thy will; for Thou art my God.

Psalm 143:10

Here we have a submissive will to the Lord. Not like the person of yesterday’s verse. What a joy it is to see young people really seeking to know and learn God’s will in their life. The sooner you give in to Him, the happier you will be. Being of one mind with the Lord gives peace and joy like nothing else can. Say this verse as a prayer today. Say it every day. “Teach me to do Thy will, for Thou art my God.”

Searching

ACT 17:11

They received the word . . . and searched the Scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

Acts 17:11

You take many classes at school where you are required to do a research paper. You have to get out the encyclopedias. You have to go to the library. You quiz others on what they know. But when it comes to matters of Bible teaching many of us never bother to search out a matter in the Scriptures to see if what we were told was correct. We have lost the ability to research. Or we just don’t care. Those in our verse today were diligent in comparing what they heard to the Scriptures to make sure it was correct. This is a good example for us. Let’s spend the time and energy to follow it.

Myself

ROM 7:18

For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing.

Rom. 7:18

Before we can climb the spiritual ladder we have to get above the first rung. And the label on the first rung is “No good in my flesh.” That is, in my old nature there’s nothing that can please God - at all. All we have to offer to God that He can and will accept is what He gave us when we got saved. We always like to think that there is a little bit of good in man. Not so! The Bible is very clear - the old nature is unacceptable. As soon as we learn that, then we can turn completely to Him and allow God to work in and through our new nature.

Praise: 3

PSA 9:1

I will praise Thee, O Lord, with my whole heart.

Psalm 9:1

David praised a lot. He appreciated what the Lord had done for him. And yet King David really didn’t understand about forgiveness of sins, a home in heaven, and all the things we know through the teachings of the New Testament. How much more, then, we should be able to praise the Lord for everything He has done for us. He died to save us. He shed His blood to wash away our sins. He’s gone to prepare a home in heaven for us. He’s coming again to take us there. Surely we can praise the Lord with our whole heart.

Service

MAR 13:34

For the Son of Man is as a man . . . who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to every man his work.

Mark 13:34

Every man has been left a work; every woman, too. Each has been given his or her own sphere of service. We are responsible to do what the Lord has given us to do. He may have picked me to write this article. He may pick you to preach in a jail. He may pick someone else to go to Africa to the mission field. Each of us has something to do. A young sister may have the work of visiting a widow, or someone who is a shut-in, to do their shopping and just give them someone to talk to. It doesn’t matter what the other person is doing for the Lord. Just make sure you do your part - the way He wants you to.

Faithfulness: 2

DAN 6:4

Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel . . . but they could find none occasion nor fault.

Dan. 6:4

Daniel lived a blameless life. (Wouldn’t that be nice!) His enemies tried hard to find something against him but they couldn’t. They couldn’t even find one fault. What a tremendous example for us. What was Daniel’s secret? He put the Lord first in everything. No matter what, God got first place. If we do the same, then try as they might, the world will never be able to find anything against us.

God’s Way: 1

EXO 33:13

Show me now Thy way, that I may know Thee, that I may find grace in Thy sight.

Ex. 33:13

Moses’ prayer here is something that we should each covet; to see God’s way, so that we can get to know Him better, and in knowing Him we can do what we know meets His approval (finding grace in His sight). We need to talk to our God often - continuing instant in prayer is what the Apostle Paul said. Let’s pray our verse to God now: Show me now Thy way, that I may know Thee, that I may find grace in Thy sight.

God’s Way: 2

EXO 33:14

My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.

Ex. 33:14

If you didn’t read yesterday’s CARELINES verse then read it now, because in our verse today God is giving His answer to Moses’ request of yesterday. And what an answer! Moses’ desire to know and please God was answered with, “My presence shall go with thee.” Yes, young person, the Lord will be with you, and you will feel His presence with you if you are faithful to Him. Even though things may not go right, He is still there to guard and keep you and show you His way. Stay faithful!

Happiness: 2

PRO 15:13

A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance.

Prov. 15:13

A person who is happy inside has a happy face too. And who could be happier than a Christian? Just think - your sins are gone, you have a home in heaven, and you have a Savior who cares for you and wants to bless you. That will produce a happy heart. Does this mean no troubles? No, of course not! But with Jesus in your heart and a deep-rooted happiness inside you, you have what it takes to overcome in the trouble. As the song says, “Don’t worry! Be happy!”

Speech: PRO 16:24

PRO 16:24

Pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.

Prov. 16:24

The shepherds on the hillside near Bethlehem heard some very pleasant words - words that gave them joy and a new purpose in life. Their Messiah was here! So we too can speak pleasant words to each other. Words of encouragement. Words of comfort. These kinds of words will revive the flagging spirit of those who are in trouble and let them know that you care. Pleasant words. Speak them today.

Worship: EXO 35:5

EXO 35:5

Whosoever is of a willing heart, let him bring it, an offering of the Lord.

Ex. 35:5

The Lord wants a willingness in offering. Forced worship is not acceptable. The worship of the golden image in Daniel’s time was forced. Under the threat of death the people had to fall and worship. In our verse the Lord wants worship from those who love Him, those who really do want to present an offering - in our case a full and thankful heart. As we think about the Lord today, His suffering and death for us, our hearts will willingly offer a sacrifice of praise that is acceptable to God.

Service: 1CO 16:!5

1CO 16:15

The house of Stephanas . . . they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints.

1 Cor. 16:15

This is a wonderful addiction to have - to minister to the saints. Here we have a whole family that spent their energy in serving other Christians. Don’t feel that work for the Lord is always done by individuals. No, there’s a special happiness and blessing when a family can all work together for the Lord - each doing his part and all working as a team. Perhaps your family can be like Stephanas’. A billboard near us reads, “The family that prays together stays together.” There’s also a special bond that holds a family together when they can work together in the Lord’s work.

Wisdom: PRO 16:16

PRO 16:16

How much better is it to get wisdom than gold!

Prov. 16:16

Our verse seems to contradict the general consensus in the world which thinks gold is much more important and has higher value than anything else. If you look on the precious metal commodity list you’ll find gold at the top. By contrast you’ll never find wisdom being traded on the stock market. That’s because it’s not purchasable. You can only get it from one place and not everyone has access to the source. Wouldn’t you like some shares in wisdom? They’re free - and they reap dividends. Call today. You can have some.

P.S. It’s a toll free number, too, 24 hours a day!

My Will

ROM 7:18

For to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.

Rom. 7:18

In case you hadn’t figured it out, there’s a battle going on inside you - most of the time. Satan wants at least equal time with the Lord. So as a master salesman he presents you with his wares (some very attractive) every day. At the same time the Lord whispers, “No!” and you turn away. But then the devil comes back with a stronger sales pitch . . . and you fall for it. Yes, the old and new natures fight all the time. We constantly need to trust the Lord to help us by the Spirit to resist the enemy and follow our Savior’s leading alone.

Your Name: EXO 33:17; JOH 33:17

EXO 33:17 JOH 33:17

I know thee by name.

Ex. 33:17

He calleth His own sheep by name.

John 10:3

It’s amazing but true. In the Lord’s eyes you are not part of a crowd - or worse, just a social security number easily looked up on a computer. No, you are an individual - with a name - known and loved by the Lord Jesus. He knows you by name; He calls you by name; your name is written in the Lamb’s book of life. Get hold of this fact: YOU ARE KNOWN BY JESUS.

Jesus’ Glory

EXO 33:18 JOH 1:14

Show me Thy glory.

Ex. 33:18

We beheld His glory.

John 1:14

Moses desperately wanted to see the Lord’s glory. He was allowed to see some of Him but he was not allowed to see God’s face. When we come to the New Testament, however, the disciples saw all of the Lord, as a man, and they also saw His glory. His Godhead shone out in His manhood. And no one stopped the disciples or anyone else from looking. John the Baptist looked on Him as He walked. He studied Him and saw God’s Son there.

Seeing Jesus

JOH 1:36 JOH 9:37

Looking upon Jesus as He walked . . .

John 1:36

Thou hast . . . seen Him [the Son of God].

John 9:37

Moses was not allowed to look on God’s face. John the Baptist looked on the Lord and recognized Him as God’s Lamb. We can look up into heaven and see the Lord today. The law stopped any looking - grace allows it. The three disciples on the mountaintop saw the Lord’s glory. Their eyes were closed to everything else except Him. What a privilege to gaze on Jesus in His beauty.

PRAISE

PSA 9:2

I will be glad and rejoice in Thee: I will sing praise to Thy name.

Psa. 9:2

The Lord loves to hear us praise Him in song. We’re going to sing a song for eternity. After we got saved He put a new song in our hearts. So singing is part of the Christian life. You may not always sing on key, but the Lord doesn’t mind. It’s what’s in your heart that matters to Him.

Service: JOH 1:8

JON 1:8

What is thine occupation?

Jonah 1:8

Jonah had to account for himself and state his occupation. He actually didn’t answer that particular question, but he did identify himself as fearing God. Working for the Lord is a wonderful experience. There is little that gives more happiness than service for Him. A servant of the Lord who won’t do the job the Lord has asked him to do will be unhappy. Jonah found himself in terrible circumstances because he ran away from what God wanted him to do. Be like Jonah on his second attempt to do God’s service - not on his first.

Victory

1CO 15:57

But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Cor. 15:57

Which victory? Over death! Now we have heaven to look forward to because of Calvary. No more need to worry about meeting God in our sins. No more question or doubt - I hope I’m going to heaven. No, now we can say that we know that we are going to heaven - for sure. After death - an eternal home in heaven awaits those that have put their trust in Jesus. And our victory is only through Jesus. We can’t do anything to make our salvation more sure. Don’t let anyone ever talk you out of your confidence in Christ.

Hate

1JO 3:15

Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer.

1 John 3:15

I’ve heard the case of a young sister who said, “I hate Uncle Joe.” And they were both in fellowship at the same place. Something is wrong when one Christian “hates” another Christian. In fact our verse calls them a “murderer.” In another Scripture it says that no murderer can inherit the kingdom of God (see Galatians 5:19-21). To hate is anti-Christian. Examine your own heart today and if you have feelings of hate towards someone else, confess it to the Lord and ask Him to help you overcome.

Compassion: 1

1JO 3:17

Whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him?

1 John 3:17 N. K. J. V

We can question a person’s Christianity by their lack of kindness to others. Turning your back on someone in need indicates the lack of the love of God in your heart - especially if you have plenty and the other has nothing. Our society seems to breed an attitude that I should only have friends who are socially on my level. King David went out of his way to show the kindness of God to crippled Mephibosheth - one who could do nothing for himself. We should do the same.

Persecution

1PE 4:16

Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed.

1 Peter 4:16

In Acts 5 the apostles preached even though they had been told not to. They were arrested, questioned, beaten, and told not to preach again. It says in verse 41 that “they departed . . . rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name.” That’s suffering as a Christian - something not to be ashamed of. May we be like those early Christians.

Prepared?

AMO 4:12

Prepare to meet thy God.

Amos 4:12

Recently I read about a large group of people in Ohio who purchased earthquake insurance. One man said that the $40 per year cost brought him great peace of mind. He is now “prepared” for an event that will probably not ever affect him. But millions of people are not prepared for an event that is 100% certain to happen. They WILL stand before God - as their judge - and will be sent to hell. Are you prepared?

Praise: 4

PSA 147: 1

It is good to sing praises unto our God; for it is pleasant; and praise is comely.

Psa. 147:1

Songs of praise to God are pleasant. He enjoys hearing them - and it cheers us when we sing. The problem is, quite often, that we don’t do it enough. We are so busy with our own lives that we don’t spend time in praising the Savior. Let your heart sing to the Lord today. (Sing with your lips too, of course, but the content of your heart is what counts.) Praise the One who was willing to die for you. Let Him know that you appreciate Him and what He’s done, and is doing, for you.

Service: PSA 100:2

PSA 100:2

Serve the Lord with gladness.

Psa. 100:2

So the Lord gave you a little job to do for Him, huh? Well, did you do it, or did you complain? No matter how small we may think a job is, let’s do it with joy. Joyful service shows a willing heart and one in communion with the Lord. The Lord NEVER complained about His work. We shouldn’t either. “He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much” (Luke 16:10). Be willing to start at the bottom of the ladder and the Lord will move you up as you progress.

Devotions: 3

ISA 55:8

For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, saith the Lord.

Isa. 55:8

Some time ago at a construction site near my home, a worker was seriously injured when a truckload of gravel was dumped on top of him. He had motioned the truck back towards the deep ditch where he stood. He thought the driver would wait until he got out of the ditch; the driver thought he was already out when he dumped the load. Their thoughts did not coincide. It is vital that your thoughts are the Lord’s thoughts, as much as possible. You can NEVER read too much of His word.

Tears

REV 21:4

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying.

Rev. 21:4

You may be going through some really tough times. Maybe you have lost a close friend or family member, or suffered a terrible setback. Remember today’s verse and receive hope from it. God can use these hard times in our lives to make us stronger, to give us a more heavenly mindset, and to deepen our experiencing of HIS love. He is right beside you. Ask Him to help you realize it. Jesus is coming soon.

Self-Control: 1

1PE 4:4

They think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot.

1 Peter 4:4

I was always amazed at college, and when I taught at college, to see the number of young people that partied and drank alcohol, and to see the disastrous effects of it. Alcohol impairs your self-control, sometimes to the point of unconsciousness. And when you’re out of control guess who takes over? Right! Satan - getting you to become involved in all kinds of shameful behavior. So although the world may think it strange that you don’t join them, may even laugh at you, stand firm. Enjoy the Lord and His love. Never mind the riotous living of the world. It was this that took away everything that the prodigal son owned. (Read Luke 15:11-16.)

Pretenders: 1

1CO 10:4-5

They drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them. . . . But with many of them God was not well pleased.

1 Cor. 10:4, 5

All the Jews drank of God’s provision, but God was not pleased with all of them. Why not? Some were pretenders. They faked their devotedness and on the inside were not right with God. Are you a pretender? You know the right answers, the right behavior, the right dress, etc. but your heart is not cleansed. You may pass as a Christian all your life but in the end you’ll find that God is not well-pleased with you because you never really accepted Jesus as your own Savior. Get right with God today.

Eternal Life

JOH 10:28

And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish.

John 10:28

This is a real comfort. Have you ever wondered if you might lose your salvation because of some sin that you committed after you were saved? Lay hold of this verse. Write it out and hang it on your bulletin board or by your bed. Confess your sin to the Lord - He’ll take care of that. But you CANNOT LOSE YOUR SALVATION. Jesus said, “They shall NEVER perish.” No, you are His forever!

Worship: 2SA 9:6

2SA 9:6

When Mephibosheth . . . was come unto David, he fell on his face, and did reverence.

2 Sam. 9:6

Mephibosheth was the lame son of Jonathan. When he came into the King of Israel’s presence, he was reverential. Why? Because the King had showed him great kindness when he didn’t deserve it. How about us? The King of Kings has showed us immense kindness. He died so that we wouldn’t have to. This ought to make us fall on our face (at least in our hearts) and show reverence. Let’s do it as we meet around the Savior today to worship.

Service: ACT 13:2

ACT 13:2

As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.

Acts 13:2

For service to be effectual and for the Lord’s glory, it must be given and directed by the Lord. If Barnabas and Saul had decided that they had something they would prefer to do and never mind what the Spirit wanted, then their service, although perhaps tremendously successful, would bring no reward of “Well done” from the Lord. When the Lord lays a work on your heart, do it. You see, a work from Him cannot go against Scripture because the Lord would not contradict Himself. But something that you arrange could be very much against some teaching of Scripture. Doors will open for you when He’s behind the work.

Fruit Bearing

JOH 15:5

He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit.

John 15:5

This verse really continues the thoughts of yesterday. There will be fruit, in fact much fruit, in a Christian’s life if he labors in accordance with the Lord’s guidance through the Scriptures. The abiding mentioned in our verse today is talking about communion or fellowship with the Lord so that we know what He wants. A Christ-filled life can do nothing except bring forth fruit.

Lying

PRO 6:16-17

These . . . things doth the Lord hate . . . a lying tongue.

Pro. 6:16, 17

One of the things that the Lord hates is lying. The Apostle Paul wrote to the Colossian assembly that the saints should not lie. Why would this warning be necessary? Because one of the first sins that you commit is to lie - to get yourself out of trouble. And it’s a sin that is very easy to commit. “Did you do this?” “No!” But, in fact, you did. The Lord expects us to be scrupulously honest in everything. This includes not living a lie and pretending to be something or somebody that you aren’t. A Christian should be “readable” to others, someone who is always truthful.

Encouragement

ACT 28:15

He thanked God, and took courage.

Acts 28:15

Paul was being taken to Rome as a prisoner. At one stop on the journey some Christians came to meet him and when Paul saw them he thanked God, and was encouraged. You see, even the Apostle Paul was discouraged at times, but a visit by believers cheered him up. Maybe someone near you is discouraged right now. All it takes is a visit from you and they’ll perk right up. Go visit them!

Fear: 2

GEN 32:7

Then Jacob was greatly afraid and distressed.

Gen. 32:7

And well he might be! He was about to meet his older brother, Esau. About 21 years earlier Jacob had cheated Esau out of two very important items (for an Old Testament Jew) - his birthright, and the eldest son’s blessing from his father. Jacob had got them both and run away. Now, as he approaches his brother, he is afraid. You too, young person, will have to face your past and account for it. Are you afraid, or are you resting on the finished work of Jesus on the cross? If you are a real Christian, you need not be afraid.

Happiness: 3

PRO 17:22

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.

Prov. 17:22

It’s really surprising how a happy person’s happiness rubs off on others. Life is hard. For many life is cruel with no laughter or joy. What a witness it is for the Lord when His own are happy, when their happiness overflows to those around. This is one medication that doesn’t cost anything to make or to get. Let the enjoyment of the Lord in your life show on the outside - by being happy. Be a nurse today and give out some doses of happy medicine.

Worship

1CO 5:7-8

Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us: therefore let us keep the feast . . . with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.

1 Cor. 5:7, 8

The Old Testament sacrifices were but a picture of the perfect sacrifice of the Lord Jesus on the cross at Calvary. Just as the Jews kept their feast of the Passover to remember their deliverance from bondage in Egypt, so we should too. Only, rather than it being an empty formality, it is an enjoyable, thrilling experience as we spend some time out of our busy week thinking about the death of our Sacrifice, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Service: ACT 14:26

ACT 14:26

Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled.

Acts 14:26

Paul and Barnabas arrived by boat in Antioch, a special place in their work for the Lord. It was from there that they had been sent out by the Christians there with money for the saints in Judea. It was at Antioch that the disciples of the Lord were first called Christians. But the work that they were sent to do, they did. It says in our verse, “The work which they fulfilled.” How important it is that you finish the work the Lord has given you to do. Don’t do it halfway. If the Lord Jesus had only half done His work, we wouldn’t be on our way to heaven. When the Lord gives you a work - do it - to completion.

Carefulness

1JO 5:18

He that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.

1 John 5:18

Be careful, young believer! You can’t live your life carelessly and assume that the Lord will protect you from “getting caught.” No! You need to keep yourself. Watch what you do, where you go, who you hang around with. When you prayerfully keep yourself, then the Lord will protect you from Satan’s attacks.

Testings

1CO 10:13

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful.

1 Cor. 10:13

The word for temptation here is really trial or difficulty. That could be a variety of things, but remember - God is faithful. He will not allow you to be swamped by the trial so that you don’t make it. He has allowed the difficulty for a reason. Ask Him why He has let this trial into your life. Even though it may seem that He doesn’t hear your cry for help -He really does. And He’s ready to help you. He’ll provide a “way of escape.” Take it!

Prayer: 1

1TI 2:1

I exhort therefore, that. . . supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men.

1 Tim. 2:1

Supplication means to ask for something; intercession is to “plead with a person, either for or against others.” Then there’s prayer - just talking to the Lord, and thanking Him, for and in everything. Paul’s instruction to Timothy was for him to practice all four aspects of prayer. We should do the same. The verse finishes that these four things should be done for “all men.” Christianity reaches out to ALL.

Ashamed?

ROM 1:16

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.

Rom. 1:16

Paul wrote these words to the Christians at Rome, probably to encourage them to take a stand. Rome was the capital of the known world at that time - a Gentile city. Paul was sent to preach to the Gentiles, so he was very interested in going to Rome and preaching the good news. Ask the Lord to help you not to be ashamed, but to take a stand for Him.

Love: 3

31:3

Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn thee.

Jer. 31:3

This verse in Jeremiah describes God’s feelings about His chosen people. Do you think that God loves you any less? Think about John 3:16 and realize that He loves you very much and is drawing you to Himself. “He gave His life, what more could He give; O how He loves you and me.”

Praise: 5

EXO 15:1-2

I will sing unto the Lord, for He hath triumphed gloriously. . . . The Lord is my strength and song, and He is become my salvation.

Ex. 15:1, 2

Singing is mentioned for the first time in the Bible in connection with redemption. A full and complete deliverance had been won for the Israelites by the Lord. As they saw their enemies dead on the sea shore they could sing a song of praise to the One who rescued them from certain bondage - their God. As you gather around the Lord this morning to remember Calvary and what Jesus suffered there at the hand of a sin-hating God, it should cause you to break out in singing the song of deliverance. Praise Him with your whole heart today. It cost Jesus His life to save yours.

Service: ACT 15:38

ACT 15:38

But Paul thought not good to take [Mark] with them, who . . . went not with them to the work.

Acts 15:38

Paul and Barnabas had made a great team in the gospel work. But at this point they had a violent disagreement over John Mark, and parted company. Paul’s concern was that John Mark had started out with them on their missionary journey but at one point had turned back and returned to Jerusalem. We aren’t told why, but it seems that Paul didn’t think it wise to take Mark again, until he proved himself. Young believer, don’t turn back. There are many disappointed people when they see one turn back, not to mention the disappointment that the Lord feels. Keep your hand to the plough. Don’t turn back!

Young Men: TIT 2:6

TIT 2:6

Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded.

Titus 2:6

We sometimes think that “sober minded” means that we’re a real stick-in-the-mud, no sense of humor. Not so! It simply means to be self-controlled. Don’t go overboard in anything, but be able to say “No!” when things have gone far enough. And this can be in anything in your life. Get control of yourself, young brother. Keep control of yourself. When you keep yourself under control the enemy has a hard time. And that’s what the Lord wants for you - to be able to resist Satan.

Idolatry

1JO 5:21

Children, keep yourselves from idols.

1 John 5:21

But we live in a “Christian” country! Why would we need a warning like this? Christian country or not, we live in a society of people that encourages idol worship. And probably the biggest idols that will occupy your time and energy are education, money and sports - not necessarily in that order. Music is another one. Anything that comes between you and the Lord is an idol. In God’s eyes you will be an idolatrous person - very hateful to God. Watch out!

Misunderstood

ACT 7:25

For he supposed his brethren would have understood . . . but they understood not.

Acts 7:25

Moses was misunderstood. So don’t feel bad when you’re misunderstood too. Moses had tried to help his people in the way that he thought best. But he ended up alone with God for 40 years - learning in God’s school. Have your fellow-believers misunderstood what you are trying to do? Take heart! Spend time studying with the Lord. He understands you and will use you in His time and in His way - the best way - after He has taught you needed lessons.

Distress: 1

LAM 1:20

Behold, O Lord; for I am in distress.

Lam. 1:20

A cry from a broken heart! Do you think that Jesus doesn’t care? Of course He cares! He cared so much for the widow of Nain who had just lost her son in death that the Lord raised him back to life and gave him back to his mother. The Lord is right there with you in your distress, too. He knows what you are going through. He feels with you in your trouble and He’s ready to help. Jesus is waiting to comfort and to bless you. Trust Him.

Submission

PRO 23:26

My son, give Me thine heart.

Pro. 23:26

The Lord desires, more than anything else, that you give Him your heart. The problem is we often only give Him part of it. The rest we keep for ourselves or something else. Jesus wants our heart so that He can fill it - with His love, with His peace, with His joy. A really happy Christian is one who has given his whole heart to the Lord Jesus. A heart that is given to Christ is a full and happy heart - and so is the person it belongs to.

Praise: 6

PSA 146:2

While I live will I praise the Lord: I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being.

Psa. 146:2

This is quite a commitment, isn’t it? Nothing here about, “Well, if things go good this week I’ll sing, but if they keep going the way they are - forget it.” No, the Christian should be able to sing praise to the Lord Jesus any time, anywhere. We have SO MUCH to sing about! Let’s do it! He loves to hear our praise. The Lord has done so much for us. The least we can do is to praise and thank Him for it.

Good Works

TIT 3:8

They which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works.

Titus 3:8

Good works. Good works. Good works. That’s one of the repeated messages in the New Testament. Christianity is not a dead “religion”. It’s the belief in and a personal relationship with a living Savior in heaven. And one that is characterized by good works. Don’t neglect to do your part!

“Faith without works is dead.” James 2:26.

“I will show thee my faith by my works.” James 2:18.

Prayer: 2

JOH 14:14

If ye shall ask any thing in My name, I will do it.

John 14:14

This sort of makes you think that you’ve got a blank check and you can fill it in for whatever you want, doesn’t it? Well, you do - almost. Don’t expect God to give something that would be against His standards of right and wrong. For instance, you know that I despise alcohol. Would you ask me to donate $100 to help bail out a brewery that needed financial assistance? Of course not. Then ask God accordingly. He’s not going to compromise His standards - but He LOVES to give - when we ask Him.

Set Apart

ROM 1:1

Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated [set apart] unto the gospel of God.

Rom. 1:1

Paul was not ashamed to call himself a servant, or slave, of Jesus Christ. Back on June 7th we noticed that Paul also was not ashamed of the gospel. He describes himself as being separated, or set apart, for the gospel. He was a man with a mission. Nothing would change what he knew God had called him to do. No matter what the difficulties, Paul was prepared to face them head-on and go on with his work. What an example!

The Lord’s Coming: 1

JOH 14:3

I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

John 14:3

It’s getting closer every day! In fact it’s incredible that we’re still here. As I write this page we have only 3 hours left before the UN deadline is reached for Iraq’s withdrawal from Kuwait. Will there be war? Is this Armageddon, as some Christians are fearing? Is this the end of the world? No! The Lord Jesus has to come first. And He will come, just as He said He would. For many it will be a surprise. Are you ready?

Peace: 2

JOH 14:27

Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you. . . . Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

John 14:27

This is a real comfort in a world where everything is unstable. The economy, the stock market, employment, the physical earth, the world powers - everything is shaky and uncertain. Now let the Lord’s words sink into your heart. Don’t be troubled. Don’t be afraid. Why not? Because in Christ we have a peace and a stability that cannot be moved. He’s the Rock, a refuge in the time of storm. Peace, young friend. Have peace.

Counsel

PRO 24:6

For by wise counsel thou shalt make thy war: and in multitude of counselors there is safety.

Prov. 24:6

Never be afraid to ask more than one person for their advice or opinion. And then weigh what you’ve been told before the Lord and be led by Him in the decision you have to make. You won’t be making a decision about war probably, but you do need wisdom and wise counsel about many of the decisions that you will face in your youth. College, wife/husband, house, where to live, etc. If you’re unsure ask for counsel, pray about it, and then make your choice.

Worship: GEN 41:43

GEN 41:43

And they cried before him, Bow the knee: and [Pharaoh] made [Joseph] ruler over all the land of Egypt.

Gen. 41:43

Here we find Joseph in triumph. After years of rejection and a long period in prison he is exalted to the top position in the land. This is just a picture of what God thinks of Jesus. He was taken from the lowest place and is now raised to the highest position in the universe - head over all things. Why? Because He was faithful, and obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. How about bending the knees of our hearts today as we spend a little time meditating on the Lord’s death? Just remember that He willingly gave His life so that we might live. He took the punishment for the sins that we committed. And God has highly exalted Him.

Service: LUK 9:49-50

LUK 9:49-50

Master, we saw one casting out devils in Thy name; and we forbad him, because he followeth not with us. And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not.

Luke 9:49, 50

The disciples were confused. One who did not “belong to their group” was doing a service in Jesus’ name and they tried to stop him. This was not what Jesus wanted and so He said, “Don’t stop him.” What Jesus may also have been trying to teach the disciples (and us) is, don’t bother with what others are doing - you do your service as given by the Lord. We are each responsible to the Lord for what we do, not for what others do.

Pride: 2

PRO 6:16-17

These . . . doth the Lord hate . . . a proud look.

Pro. 6:16, 17

Uh, oh. Problem! How many times have you had a proud air about you? How many times have you thought that you’re better than others - and let the feeling show? God hates pride. And all humans have one thing in common. No matter what race, color, or gender they are, there’s one thing they all have. That’s PRIDE. With Jesus in your heart you can keep that under control. In fact, you have the ability through the Spirit to keep it dead! Christianity promotes humility. Make sure that if you have a pride problem, you treat it with a high dose of humility and keep it out of your life.

Depression: 3

PSA 9:9

The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.

Psa. 9:9

Felt depressed lately? I’m sure we all have had days when we’re “down”. But sometimes those days just won’t seem to go away. Troubles hit us every day and we don’t know what to do. There are deadlines at school, there are pressures at work, the money you thought was in the bank just wasn’t there after all, your boyfriend stood you up . . . again, the boss was mad at you because you messed up (at least, he thought so), your parents griped at you because your room looked like a war zone . . . and on and on and on. What can you do? Turn to the Lord. He’s there waiting to help and encourage you. When King David’s men turned against him he found his comfort in the Lord. We can do the same. He really cares about how we feel.

Love: 4

1JO 3:14

We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren.

1 John 3:14

Love is from God. God is love. That’s His nature. He can’t help but love. And His Spirit is in each of His children. We can now love unconditionally, just as God loves. That means we can love without expecting anything in return even when the object of our love is actually unlovable, in a natural way. That’s something that is hard to understand but it’s part of the fruit of the Spirit that will be seen in a person who becomes a Christian. Love covers up, or rather replaces, the hate that used to be there. Love is from God.

Provoked Spirit

PSA 106:32-33

They angered him also at the waters of strife, so that it went ill with Moses for their sakes . . . they provoked his spirit, so that he spake unadvisedly with his lips.

Psa. 106:32, 33

One writer has stated that a provoked spirit is a “wrong spirit about wrong things.” Another person may wrong you or treat you horribly, but remember that the Lord holds you responsible for how you react. Moses was denied the thrill of entering into the promised land, even though his brethren seemed to be much more at fault. Avoid the temptation to “lash out” at others, or because of others, but instead, ask the Lord to help you receive wrongs patiently.

Conscience

1JO 3:21

Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence toward God.

1 John 3:21

It is a great thing to have a clear conscience before God. Keep it that way! Confess anything that comes between you and the Lord and keep a good conscience. Have confidence toward God. This means that we are never afraid to come to the Lord, and we know that He will hear us when we call and will answer our prayer. Got a bad conscience? Only you can take the steps to clear it.

Worship

ISA 45:23 PHI 2:10-11

Unto Me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.

Isa. 45:23

At the name of Jesus every knee should bow . . . every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.

Phil. 2:10, 11

God’s plan for the worship of Christ in the Old Testament still stands. Every knee will bow. Every tongue will confess. How wonderful it is to be able to bow and confess today from a thankful heart -voluntarily - because of His love for us. Everyone will bow, one day. But today as we gather around the Son of God and remember Him in His death for us at Calvary, we can bow our hearts to Him in worship and adoration as we thank Him for dying for us. He paid ALL the price to set us free from hell. What a Savior we have.

Service: MAR 10:45

MAR 10:45

The Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many.

Mark 10:45

The Lord Jesus came to serve. His primary concern was to serve His Father. But He spent almost every waking hour serving others. He never tired in His service to man. His ultimate act of service was to give His life as a ransom. The Lord’s example should be something that we should covet - the willingness to serve. Needs are everywhere. You don’t have to look far to find someone who needs help. Are you willing to give it?

Satisfaction

EZE 7:19

They shall not satisfy their souls . . . because their iniquity is their stumblingblock.

Ezek. 7:19 (marg.)

Rock singer Mick Jagger of the Rolling Stones was quoted in the newspaper: “I don’t want to sound like a spoiled child, but I’m still looking for fulfillment.” At the time of this quote he was 40 years old and in good health; he had personal wealth reportedly exceeding $10 million; he had fame as the lead singer of one of the most successful singing groups in history; and he had popularity which approached adoration. It seems from all reports that his life is spent in the pursuit of pleasure; nothing has been withheld from him - except satisfaction. NONE BUT CHRIST CAN SATISFY.

Forgiven

1JO 1:7

The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.

1 John 1:7

A woman was recently saved. Before she became a Christian, however, she had led a very immoral life. She is now married to a good Christian man, but she worries that God will still punish her for her past. If you are troubled in a similar way, remember one thing: If you know Jesus as your Savior, you may still have to suffer the consequences for your wrong actions, but Christ has already born the punishment and paid the price for them. God will not punish you too.

Cheerfulness

2CO 6:4-5

In all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities. . . in watchings.

2 Cor. 6:4-5

How can we show ourselves to be real Christians in the circumstances which are listed in this verse? One of the ways is CHEERFULNESS. Christians ought to radiate inner joy even when tired, hungry, suffering, or frustrated. The word “watchings” means sleeplessness. Some justify grumpiness when they are tired or hungry. The Apostle Paul spent two weeks in a ship in a hurricane. Hunger and sleeplessness did not hinder him from speaking cheer to his shipmates. We recently had visitors who were on their way home after a long trip. We heard in advance that they were exhausted, but we were impressed by the cheery disposition of these ministers of God as they dragged into our home.

Trust: PSA 103:2

PSA 103:2

Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.

Psa. 103:2

Have you ever been upset by something you did in your past? Maybe you wince every time you remember some embarrassing mistake of only last week. A friend may tell you to “never look back.” There are times, however, when looking back can be beneficial. We can take courage when we look back and see how the Lord has blessed us, delivered us, encouraged us. This looking back can help us to appreciate Him more and TRUST Him for our future.

Faith: 1

ROM 4:3

For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness.

Rom. 4:3

The faith described in this verse is so beautiful - because it illustrates faith’s simplicity. Simple trust, not some complicated formula to try to reach God, is all that is required. Are you willing to consciously place your life and circumstances in the Lord’s hands and not try and figure out every detail? One big payback will be receiving the peace which passes all understanding.

Worship: ROM 14:11

ROM 14:11

As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to Me, and every tongue shall confess to God.

Rom. 14:11

It’s an absolutely certain fact that every human being ever born will, some day, bow the knee to the Lord Jesus Christ. Some will be forced to bow. Thank God, there are many who will, and do, gladly bow in true adoration and worship because He is their Lord and Savior. What a wonderful thing it is to be able to bow in worship to Jesus today and thank Him for dying on Calvary’s cross. The cost of our salvation was the death of the Son of God on the cross.

Evangelism: 1

PRO 11:30

He that winneth souls is wise.

Prov. 11:30

The Apostle Paul wrote of his different approaches with the gospel toward different types of people (1 Cor. 9:19-23). He even became as weak, that he might gain the weak! The object was not to promote himself as a religious authority, nor to change God’s standards, but by all means to save some. Sometimes a gentle remark or a thought provoking question is more effective than an authoritative statement.

The Creator

ISA 40:28

Hast thou not heard . . . the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary?

Isa. 40:28

In the Lord we have a never-ending supply of strength. General Motors is planning to build an electric car. It’ll run 75 miles . . . and then need to be recharged. That’s just like us. We run on spiritual batteries that run down. Then we need to be recharged every day by reading the Scriptures, spending time alone with God, and time in fellowship with other Christians. The Lord is our Charger. He is the source to “trickle charge” us when we run out of power.

Trouble

2CO 4:8 PHI 4:8

We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed.

2 Cor. 4:8

I have learned . . . to be content.

Phil. 4:11

The Apostle Paul is a tremendous example for us. How many of us could say that we are troubled on every side, yet not distressed? For many of us just one problem is enough to “get us down.” What was Paul’s secret? He had learned, through experience with God, to be content - anywhere, any time, in any circumstances. He knew the Source of contentment - Jesus, the Son of God. So although troubles raged, Paul was not distressed. Do you know Jesus that well?

Trouble

2CO 4:8 PHI 4:11

We are perplexed, but not in despair.

2 Cor. 4:8

I have learned . . . to be content.

Phil. 4:11

Here’s another situation that the Apostle Paul had under control. He was perplexed - that means that he was at a loss to know what to do. And yet he knew the Source of help. Perhaps when he was in jail, along with Silas, he was “at a loss” but he sang praises -and help was on its way! Within minutes he was free. Don’t forget, young Christian, that Jesus is always near to give a helping hand when you need it.

Salvation: 4

ROM 10:9

If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

Rom. 10:9

An intellectual young man who was recently saved said that when he accepted the Lord Jesus into his heart it was the first time in his life that he acted from his heart rather than his intellect. He has been successful in this world by using his intellect, but none of his accomplishments could have given him the inner joy that radiated from his face on the day of his conversion. Our Lord is the great heart specialist -He wants it, and He alone can fill it.

Overcoming

1JO 5:4

For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world.

1 John 5:4

A hard thing that a young Christian has to face is to be able to reject the world and seek the company of believers instead. Satan makes the world as attractive as he can. And millions embrace it. To follow the crowd is easy. To overcome and resist is hard. But the power to do it is there. God’s power through the Spirit is in you. You can overcome!

Worship: PSA 34:3

PSA 34:3

O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together.

Psa. 34:3

Often when we come together to worship the Lord our minds are distracted easily with other things. Several weeks ago a large group met together to remember the Lord in His death. Many felt the Spirit leading in that meeting as time and again we would rise to our feet in songs of praise and thanksgiving. Distractions didn’t seem to be a problem. The Lord loves to encourage us and that day the encouragement was a closer glimpse of Himself. Ask the Lord to help you not to be distracted.

Service

PHI 4:3

Those women who labored with me in the gospel . . . whose names are in the book of life.

Phil. 4:3

We started having gospel suppers a few years ago. Two of our sisters take the full responsibility for planning and organizing the meals. It takes a lot of work. And when you’re on the front line, you get hit by the bullets first! They are laboring in the gospel. They don’t preach with their mouths. But they preach up a storm by their works. Being there and pitching in with the work, sharing the “grunt” work, and being available to explain the gospel privately to any who are not clear as to the way of salvation, is all service for the Lord. And He appreciates it.

Cheaters

2CO 2:17

For we are not, as so many, peddling the Word of God.

2 Cor. 2:17 N. K. J. V

The “Christian” world was rocked with scandals a couple of years ago, the most disgusting one being Jim Bakker who duped his followers out of multi-millions of dollars. He lived in luxury and every time he asked for more money, they gave. That’s “peddling the Word of God.” Bakker got a 45-year prison term. But he still has to stand before God and give an answer! Let’s always be honest in dealing with souls and not try to make money by “selling” our ministry to unsuspecting people.

Lying: 2

PRO 6:16-19

These . . . doth the Lord hate . . . a false witness that speaketh lies.

Prov. 6:16, 19

Lying! How easy it is to do it. And basically it’s done to cover up, or because the liar is afraid to take any blame for a problem that he caused. As a Christian, never be afraid to take the rap. A little lie will always lead to a big one if the habit is not broken early. And a big lie will always lead to trouble. Watch your tongue. Always tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.

Persecution: 2

1JO 3:13

Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you.

1 John 3:13

The “world” is Satan’s realm. He is the god of it and is trying to get all people in it to worship him rather than the Lord Jesus. Don’t be surprised then, if your devotion to the Lord causes those who are unsaved to hate you. They really can’t help it. Satan hates Christ and got the world to crucify Him. Now the world hates a Christ-follower. Marvel not, young believer, if the world hate you.

The Help Hotline

HEB 4:16

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

Heb. 4:16

D’you need help? Have things got so bad that you don’t know where to go or what to do? Come to JESUS. He’s waiting to help. You say, “But I’ve done so many wrong things.” That’s alright. Tell the Lord you’re sorry and ask Him to help you out of your trouble. In our verse today we see MERCY and GRACE. Because of these we can come to the Lord BOLDLY. Don’t be afraid. Bring your troubles to Jesus. He’s the only real HELP HOTLINE that there is.

Gospel

ACT 4:14

And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.

Acts 4:14

Winning arguments does not win souls. These religious leaders which could say nothing against the healing of the cripple are the same ones who bribed the guardians of the Lord’s tomb to lie about the resurrection. Our Lord uses us in His work. However, without the work of God in a heart, no amount of evidence or argument will win the soul of an unbeliever! How important, therefore, is prayer for the lost.

Worship: ACT 20:7

ACT 20:7

Upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them.

Acts 20:7

Here’s the example for us to follow. You may have wondered why we remember the Lord every Sunday, rather than some other day or only a few times a year. We get our example from the early believers who came together on the first day of the week - Sunday. Don’t ever let it become an empty ritual - one that means nothing to you. This time should be the highlight of a Christian’s week, the time when we spend a few moments thinking of Jesus our Savior and what it cost Him to get us to heaven.

Communion: PArt 1

PSA 77:13

Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God?

Psa. 77:13

You’ll never know how great and good God is unless you spend time in His presence. A quiet time with God, worshipping Him, thanking Him, and listening to Him is the way to appreciate His greatness. How much do you go into the sanctuary - that place of quietness, away from everything, where you can commune with the Lord?

There is a place of quiet rest,
Near to the throne of God.

The Lord WANTS your fellowship; you need HIS. The Christian life is two-way communion.

Talebearing

PRO 18:8

The words of a talebearer are as wounds.

Prov. 18:8

It is extremely easy to hurt someone by spreading malicious gossip. Don’t be a talebearer. It can’t be emphasized enough -DON’T TELL TALES!!! Even though they may be true. Wow, it’s hard, isn’t it? But think of it this way: Do you like people saying unkind, maybe even untrue things about you to others? NO! Then don’t you do it either.

Faith: 2

ROM 1:8

I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.

Rom. 1:8

The Lord often uses a quiet, unassuming Christian to “lift up” those around. Have you ever noticed a brother or sister who seems to be calm during hard times, or who, without drawing attention to themselves, just goes on trusting the Lord? Even though you may not even be aware of it, your quiet, solid FAITH in Christ can be a tremendous encouragement to a hurting soul.

Wickedness

PRO 6:16-18

These . . . doth the Lord hate . . . a heart that deviseth wicked imaginations.

Prov. 6:16, 18

The world of pornography is dominated and controlled by organized crime. They spend their time devising wickedness - and then make millions of dollars a year selling it. As a Christian be careful to maintain good works, to show kindness to others, and to HATE wickedness. Keep away from anything that would corrupt your heart and mind, so that YOUR heart thinks God’s thoughts.

Mischief

PRO 6:16-18

These . . . doth the Lord hate . . . feet that be swift in running to mischief.

Prov. 6:16, 18

In yesterday’s portion of this verse, and again today, we have those who basically are not Christians. However, it is easy for a Christian to get into these situations by the company they keep. Yes, it’s hard to say “NO!” when you’ve been involved with a group of kids from the beginning. Ask the Lord to help you to be strong, and to leave worldly associations and attach yourself to a Christian group.

Love: 5

1JO 4:11

Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.

1 John 4:11

God’s love toward us was and is unfathomable. He punished His only Son for the sins that we’ve done so that He wouldn’t have to punish us for them. If Jesus was willing to die for us, and if God willingly gave up His Son for us, then we ought to love one another. Love is of God. God is love. We have the love of God in our hearts. Let it show.

Worship: 2SA 14:4

2SA 14:4

And when the woman of Tekoah spake to the king, she fell on her face to the ground, and did obeisance.

2 Sam. 14:4

Obeisance has a similar thought as reverence. In the presence of the king of Israel this widow showed reverence. When we come into the presence of the King of kings our attitude should be the same. We shouldn’t be afraid - just full of awe at being in the presence of the Son of God. He made us, He died for us, He prepared a home in heaven for us. Now we can come and worship Him for His greatness and love.

Evangelism: 2

ACT 8:5-8

Philip . . . preached Christ unto them. And the people with one accord gave heed. . . . And there was great joy in that city.

Acts 8:5-8

An ancient philosopher said that all man’s pursuits - whether they be riches, fame, power, or whatever else - are ultimately all pursuits of happiness. The few who accomplish their goals in this world often admit that true happiness is still missing. We, like Philip, can bring the message of true and lasting joy to others around us. The message of the angel to the shepherds at the birth of Jesus was “tidings of great joy.” Real joy starts with Jesus.

The Fire Test

1CO 3:13

Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.

1 Cor. 3:13

In that day (the judgment seat of Christ) there will be rewards for many “works” that were done unnoticed. Other great Christian projects, known by many around the world, may not stand the great Fire Test. They’ll disappear in the flames. God will not forget that which is done purely for Him out of a heart of love: the help given to the ungrateful; the kindness that went unnoticed, or unthanked; the kind word spoken to one in trouble; or even the devotional meditation of a heart in love with Jesus.

Humility: 2

PSA 103:14

For He knoweth our frame; He remembereth that we are dust.

Psa. 103:14

A friend of mine says he is going to write a book entitled, “Humility and How I Attained It.” If this friend is serious, then I’m afraid that he’s already lost it! Seeing ourselves the way that the Lord sees us would ensure our being humble. But that’s okay because what really matters is what we are in Christ Jesus. Our value comes from Him redeeming us and giving us His righteousness. Spending more time thinking about Jesus will help us spend less time thinking about ourselves.

Self

GAL 5:26

Let us not be desirous of vainglory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Gal. 5:26

Those who live for their own glory are stuck in an unhappy sandwich. On one side is envying one another: there are always others who are better than we are or who have more than we have. On the other side is provoking one another: those we are above are provoked to envy or covetousness. Those who live for Christ have a better object than living for the eye of man - rather, they live for the eye of God. They can help the unfortunate and rejoice with the successful.

Discouragement

2CO 4:8-9 PHI 4:11

We are . . . cast down, but not destroyed.

2 Cor. 4:8, 9

I have learned . . . to be content.

Phil. 4:11

Did the Apostle Paul get slammed down? Of course he did. He lived 100% for the Lord and yet he was beaten, imprisoned, forsaken by many of his friends and brethren. It was enough to make Paul discouraged. And yet through it all he had a quiet confidence in God that things were all right. Through his hardships he had learned a tremendous lesson - to be content. That’s a great lesson to learn. May we all learn it too - that no matter how hard things may be, God is still in control, He will look after us, and heaven awaits us at the end. Contentment. You can have it even when everything seems against you.

Love: 6

1JO 4:19

We love . . . because He first loved us.

1 John 4:19

Recently at a supper held for Sunday school children, a teenage girl sat by herself, quite alone. This girl, who is retarded, couldn’t talk, couldn’t play, and could barely feed herself. Two young men in their early twenties noticed this girl and walked over to be with her. For a long time they talked to her about Jesus and encouraged her as best they could. With love in their hearts and tears in their eyes they were displaying the heart of Jesus to a lonely girl.

Worship: HEB 11:4

HEB 11:4

By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain.

Heb. 11:4

Abel’s sacrifice, in this first recorded “worship” meeting, was acceptable to God because it spoke of the Lord Jesus and His death at Calvary. Blood was shed, and the Bible says that without the shedding of blood is no remission (for sin). So God accepted Abel’s offering. Abel worshipped in a proper way. This is a pattern for us to follow. Our worship should center around the Lord Jesus and what He did on the cross. His death and shed blood provides a perfect, full, and free salvation - to those who believe in Him. And it thrills the Lord’s heart to see His own gathered around Him on Lord’s Day morning to remember His perfect sacrifice - the sacrifice of Himself.

Service: ACT 9:39

ACT 9:39

All the widows stood by him weeping, and showing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.

Acts 9:39

If today were my last day on earth, is there any act of kindness that would be missed tomorrow? Is there anything which others have that would remind them of my selflessness? Would others that remain know and remember that my life was a life lived for Christ? That’s the challenge. This is one aspect of service: making things for others.

His Faithfulness

PHI 4:19

But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Phil. 4:19

George Muller was a 19th century Christian who well knew the meaning of the above verse. His early association with a group of Christians who gathered to the name of the Lord Jesus taught him dependence on the Holy Spirit to supply his physical and spiritual needs. The story of Mr. Muller’s life work of caring for hundreds of orphan children on a budget of next to nothing is very inspiring. But God wants us to trust Him in the same way, and with confidence that He will care for us and supply ALL our needs.

Temptation: 2 Cor. 2:11

2CO 2:11

We are not ignorant of [Satan’s] devices.

2 Cor. 2:11

It doesn’t take much thought to figure out that Satan uses more than one trick to catch us in his trap. And each of us have different weaknesses which the devil will take advantage of. I have a real weakness in music. Satan has used it more than once to get me to walk a path that is not according to Scripture. Satan attacks without warning, often when things are “going well” (or at least seem to be). And he doesn’t quit after his first success or failure, but rather he tries again and again to make us stumble. WATCH OUT!! We are not ignorant of his devices.

Compassion: 2

ACT 7:34

I have seen, I have seen the affliction of My people which is in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them.

Acts 7:34

These are the words that God spoke to Moses at the burning bush. It is striking to see that God does not say that He had heard their prayers. He says nothing of their conduct (idolatry had crept in). No, it was the deep afflictions and the groanings that moved God’s heart. Our God is a God of compassion. He delights to answer our prayers. Even when we may be too discouraged or thoughtless to pray, He is still on our side. He will never forget His promise to us: “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”

Self-Control: 2

GAL 5:22-23

I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection.

1 Cor. 9:27

The fruit of the Spirit is . . . self-control.

Gal. 5:22, 23 J. N. D

THIS IS HARD. Self-control! It’s a constant battle. Your thoughts run away with you. You love to eat (and it shows!). You started looking at sensual pictures in magazines. One of the Christian’s big challenges is to exercise self-control. Self-control is part of the fruit of the Spirit. Are you allowing the Spirit to have the control of your life?

Happiness: 4

PSA 144:15

Happy is that people, whose God is the Lord.

Psa. 144:15

Have you ever sat on a bench in a shopping mall and watched people walk by? You’ve probably noticed many faces that seem distant or unhappy. Does this description apply to you? If so, there is one, and only one, solution. Happiness comes, not in serving yourself, but in serving the Savior. But you can’t serve Him unless you know Him. Acts 16:31 says that if you believe in Jesus you will be saved. Then you will be part of that happy people “whose God is the Lord.”

Worship: MAR 10:17

MAR 10:17

There came one running, and kneeled to [Jesus], and asked Him, Good Master, what shall I do . . . ?

Mark 10:17

This young person was in earnest - he ran to the Lord. He was reverent - he kneeled in front of Jesus. He was respectful - he called Jesus Good Master. He needed an important question answered: “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” And when the Lord gave him his answer, he went away rejecting it because his money was more important than the Lord. Be careful that your worship is not just external, with all the right actions, attitudes, and responses, but inside there’s no response of the heart. Man looks on the outward appearance. God looks at your heart. Worship the Lord today in spirit and in truth.

Service: 2 Cor. 4:5

2CO 4:5

For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.

2 Cor. 4:5

J esus first

O thers next

Y ourself last

Our verse follows this principle. Christ Jesus the Lord was who the Apostle and his helpers preached. This was of paramount importance. The Apostle was then a servant for his brethren. This should be our motto too, to preach Christ and Him crucified, and to serve others as they have need. Too often we think about ourselves and how tired we are, or that we were left out of the plans for the young people, or that so-and-so always gets to go someplace and I can’t ever go! Jesus wants your life given to Him - in service. How about it?

Self-Confidence

2CO 3:5

Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God.

2 Cor. 3:5

Self-confidence, in the respect that I can do anything because I am good, is not a scriptural thought. God-confidence because Christ gives me just what I need to use for Him and His glory is the way our confidence should be. It’s not in ourselves but in God. He’s the source that gives the gift and the power to get things done - we’re not. Jesus is the One who died to purge away our sin - we didn’t. Christ rose from the dead the third day - we didn’t. Let’s be certain that others see that our confidence is really confidence in God and that I, as a person, have no confidence in myself.

Love

1JO 4:7

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God.

1 John 4:7

God’s nature is love. That’s the way He is. And after you became a Christian His love was put in you through the indwelling of the Spirit. Your new nature is love. God loved us when we were unlovable and did not respond. How much of His love shines out of you and me? Do we show love even when there’s no response?

Sadness

PSA 147:3

He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.

Psa. 147:3

You mean there really is someone who cares when I’m down, lonely, or sad? Absolutely! Jesus knows what it’s like to be totally alone, forsaken by friends, and hated by everyone else. He cares very much for you in your trouble. Call to Him, He’s right there beside you and ready to heal and bind up your wounds. Even though no one else seems to care, Jesus does.

“Earthly friends may fail or leave us,
One day soothe, the next day grieve us,
But this Friend will ne’er deceive us -
O how He loves!”

Trouble Maker

PRO 6:16-19

These . . . doth the Lord hate . . . he that soweth discord among brethren.

Prov. 6:16,19

c Gossip! c Malicious gossip!

c Back biting! c Talking evil of others!

These are all things that can “sow discord” or stir up trouble among your Christian circle of fellowship. If you have the tendency to start the gossip or if you have a bad habit of passing information on to others, ask the Lord to especially help you overcome. You are really speaking and working against the Lord.

Happiness: 5

GAL 5:13

By love serve one another.

Gal. 5:13

We remarked in the message last Saturday that you cannot be really happy if you don’t know Jesus personally. Today’s verse suggests another “requirement” for finding happiness. Concentrating on the needs of others and thereby decreasing thoughts of yourself is a wonderful secret to happiness that many people, unfortunately, never discover. Ask the Lord to bring people into your life that you may help.

Worship: SOS 1:4

SOS 1:4

We will remember Thy love.

S. of Sol. 1:4

When we stop and remember what Jesus did at Calvary - how He endured the hatefulness of others, how He bore the punishment for sins that He never committed, how that He gave up His life, how He shed His blood, was buried and rose again - our hearts automatically are bowed in humble adoration and worship. Especially when I remember that He did it all for me. Worship is very personal and if we all worship from our hearts individually, our collective worship will be really thrilling. Remember Jesus in His death today.

Service: 2CO 9:8

2CO 9:8

And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye . . . may abound to every good work.

2 Cor. 9:8

God’s heart just overflows to His own in love and goodness. He has given us everything that is for our good. And now He wants us to overflow in good works toward others. You see, Christianity is not something that should be kept secret. And it isn’t selfish. As it says in 1 Corinthians 13, love “seeketh not her own.” In other words I don’t do everything for myself, but I reach out and touch others. So our God’s desire for us is to serve Him by serving others. The Lord lived this principle. Now we can carry on what His example started.

Approval

2CO 10:18

For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.

2 Cor. 10:18

I’ve worked at places where each year you have to do a self-evaluation. Part of that evaluation is to tell management just how good you are, and what a lot of good things you did during the past year. The better you sound, the better salary raise you’ll get. In the Christian life, we are exhorted to take a quiet place. Let the Lord promote us if He wants to but we shouldn’t promote ourselves. There were many while the Lord was on earth that “approved” themselves by showing everyone how pious and godly they were. But the Lord Jesus called them “hypocrites”, “full of extortion and excess.” Pretty strong words. Let the Lord do the commending.

Counsel

PSA 1:1

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly.

Psa. 1:1

Ungodly counsel can get us into trouble. Thousands of people write to certain newspaper columnists each day for counsel. For the most part their counsel is based strictly on what the world’s standards are. Their counsel is not based on Scripture. If it were they would lose their followers because Scriptural standards are the complete opposite of the world’s standards. It is good for us to follow the advice of our verse and get counsel from a Christian who is living for and with the Lord.

Sinners

PSA 1:1

Blessed is the man that walketh not . . . nor standeth in the way of sinners.

Psa. 1:1

A downward path away from the Lord and back into the world always begins with walking with the world, and then standing (or having fellowship) with them. There is a happy path for the Christian and that path is to find your fellowship with other believers. Fellowship with Christians based on the Word of God will never lead us astray. Peter stood around a fire at the Lord’s trial and had fellowship with unbelievers. He ended up denying the Lord. Let’s be very careful who we’re friends with.

Politics

PSA 1:1

Blessed is the man that walketh not . . . nor standeth . . . nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

Psa. 1:1

Abraham’s nephew Lot, in the story of his life in Genesis, quit farming to live in the city of Sodom. He eventually became a judge. His counsel was respected - until he warned his sons-in-law of the coming judgment of God on the city. Then they laughed at him. As long as our counsel goes along with what people want to hear, they’ll listen. But bring up the Bible and the Lord and they turn off. Lot’s witness for God was spoiled because he joined politically with the world. Christianity and politics don’t mix.

Real Blessing

PSA 1:1-2

Blessed is the man . . . [whose] delight is in the law of the Lord.

Psa. 1:1,2

Here’s where true blessing is found - a delight in God’s Word. Those of us who are a little older than most of you reading this calendar have discovered that the only path of real joy and happiness and contentment is in turning away from the world and its influence and following the Lord with all our heart. We encourage each of you to continue in the faith. Jesus wants to bless you. He wants you to be happy and at peace. He alone is the source of true happiness. Trust Him. Give your life to Him. You’ll never regret it.

Worship: PSA 49:16

PSA 49:16

Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of My hands.

Isa. 49:16

The Lord said right before the words in our verse that He would never forget us. No. There is no way that he could forget with such a constant reminder of the cost of our redemption engraved in His hands. Each time He holds out His hands He is reminded of Calvary’s cross and what He paid to save us. Does this speak to your heart? Can you respond by remembering the Lord in His death and worshipping Him today? He is so worthy of our worship. He gave Himself for us. Let’s worship Him today once again as we eat of the loaf and drink of the cup and so show His death, until He comes.

Service: MAR 14:6

MAR 14:6

And Jesus said, Let her alone; why trouble ye her? she hath wrought a good work on Me.

Mark 14:6

What had this woman done that the Lord stood up for her so? She had poured out some ointment on His head! The guests at dinner complained against “such waste.” But the Lord appreciated it VERY much. No work done for the Lord from a heart of love will lose its reward. Keep going, young Christian. Your field of service may be small; others may complain about what you are doing - they may condemn your actions - but if it’s done for the Lord Jesus He notices, appreciates it, and will reward you.

Offence

LUK 7:23

And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in Me.

Luke 7:23

These were the Lord’s parting words to the messengers from John the Baptist. They had witnessed many mighty works of power to others; but it was not the Lord’s will to use that power to deliver John from prison. John may have felt forsaken as he faced the executioner but the Lord pronounces a special blessing on those who remain faithful to Him in adversity or loneliness. Do you see others acting in the power of the Lord while your prayers seem to go unanswered? Remember John in prison. There’s a special blessing for those who are not offended in Jesus.

Fear: 3

1JO 4:18

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment.

1 John 4:18

Fear is indeed torment. The worst torment is the fear of death, of having to stand before God in your sins and be cast into the lake of fire for eternity. But after we’re saved God’s love in our hearts removes all fear. Our sins are gone, we have a home reserved in our name in heaven and we will see God and stand before Him in Christ’s righteousness. (In other words, it’s as if Christ Himself were standing before God.) No fear. It’s all gone. Hallelujah!

Persecution: 3

2CO 4:8-9 PHI 4:11

We are . . . persecuted, but not forsaken.

2 Cor. 4:8, 9

I have learned . . . to be content.

Phil. 4:11

I have never been persecuted as was the Apostle Paul. He went through terrible persecution and yet through it all he knew that he was not forsaken. He knew that God was still there ready to help him in his trouble. He had great confidence in God, and he had learned to be content with what God allowed him to go through. This is a tremendous lesson for each of us and one that we would do well to get hold of. We may have to pass through persecution - but we are NOT forsaken. And no matter what our circumstances - it’s great to be content.

God’s Word

PRO 13:13

Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded.

Prov. 13:13

How do we despise the Word? Ignore it, forget its warnings, or reject it altogether. The New Testament has a verse that says, “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?” (Hebrews 2:3.) Just simply neglecting the Word because you’re too busy is to despise the Word. The result? Your destruction. Conversely, to accept the Scripture and heed its warnings, to believe it and accept Jesus as the only way of salvation will give great reward - eternal life. That’s the greatest reward that anyone could ask for. Do you believe?

Thankfulness

1TH 5:18

In every thing give thanks.

1 Thess. 5:18

“Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift.”

Need we say more? No matter what circumstance we find ourselves in we can always thank God for His incredible gift - the gift of His own Son, the Lord Jesus. Nothing compares to this. Our salvation cost God His only Son. In order for us to get to heaven God gave His Son and punished Him on Calvary’s cross for our sins. That should be enough to make us thank Him in every situation.

LOVED

DEU 7:7-8

The Lord did not set His love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people . . . but because the Lord loved you.

Deut. 7:7, 8

This was spoken about Israel, but we can take it for ourselves. When we see the vast majority of people leading godless lives, we can find joy and comfort in the fact that God loved us so much that He chose us to belong to Him - not because we were better, or had more numbers, or more brains, or more money. No. Just simply because He loved us.

Service

ROM 6:22

But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness.

Rom. 6:22

Christian service is toward God. We were once the slaves of death and hell - doing Satan’s bidding. But now, in Christ Jesus, we are servants to God. Our fruit is fruit unto holiness. And a Christian enjoying fellowship with God will bear fruit, more fruit, and much fruit - because that’s what God expects us to do.

Pretenders: 2

1JO 1:6

If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth.

1 John 1:6

A boy in the street was selling mince pies, and was crying out: “Hot mince pies - get your hot mince pies while they last!” A man bought one but found that it was not hot. He said to the boy: “Why do you call these ‘hot’ mince pies?” “Because that is the name they go by, sir.” And so with many who call themselves Christians: that’s only the name they go by. In fact they are very cold!

Laughter

PSA 126:2

Then was our mouth filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing.

Psa. 126:2

When was this? When the Jews were set free from captivity. When a person finds peace in believing in Jesus, it makes them happy and they want to sing. Laughter should be easy and real for a Christian. (How many times have you heard people laugh and said to yourself, “Wow, what a fake laugh”?) We have been set free. Heaven is our home. We have free fellowship with God Himself. Why be sad?

Blessed

DEU 8:7-9

For the Lord thy God bringeth thee into a good land. . . . Thou shalt not lack any thing in it.

Deut. 8:7, 9

In Ephesians we are told that we have been blessed “with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ” (ch. 1:3). We lack nothing - spiritually. God has given us everything “richly to enjoy.” God holds nothing back. In a sense now, but in a full measure in heaven, we will not find anything missing. Absolute perfection, happiness, and full contentment will be ours for eternity. God already sees us as there. Are we enjoying it?

Temptation

HEB 2:18

For, in that Himself has suffered, being tempted, He is able to help those that are being tempted.

Heb. 2:18 J.N.D.

Jesus was tempted - on and off - for 40 days and 40 nights. At the end, when He was naturally very weak and hungry, Satan laid three heavy temptations on Him. So Jesus knows just how to help us when we’re tempted. Jesus knows that Satan attacks when we’re down, alone, and “hungry”. That way we can’t resist very well. Let’s fight him off by enjoying the Lord in our heart every day, walking with Him every step, and feeding on Him in daily Bible reading and prayer. Don’t forget - only Jesus can give you the strength to overcome in the temptation.

Joy

1JO 1:4 2JO 12

These things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.

1 John 1:4

I trust to come unto you, and speak face to face, that our joy might be full.

2 John 12

Joy is honoring Jesus, serving Others, and forgetting Yourself. I know a Christian who is always complaining about something in his life that’s not to his liking: he feels sick, or his car has broken again, or he works too hard, etc., etc. Reading the Scriptures, fellowship with others, and listening to the Lord will give us full joy.

Gospel

ROM 3:22-23

For there is no difference: for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.

Rom. 3:22, 23

“I will mention you in the gospel tonight,” said a father to his son as they walked toward the gospel meeting. The lad questioned his father about what he was going to say about him. “You must wait until you hear my message,” was his father’s reply. The boy paid good attention to the gospel meeting, as the father had intended, and on their way home he said: “You didn’t mention me even once, Dad.” “Oh, but I did! In fact many times! Didn’t you hear me speak about the SINNER?”

Servant to?

ROM 6:16

Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey?

Rom. 6:16

The verse goes on to say that we obey one of two things - either sin unto death, or obedience unto righteousness. Bob Dylan had a song on the charts shortly after he was reportedly converted. It said, “You got to serve somebody. It may be the devil, or it may be the Lord, but you got to serve somebody.” It reflects the same thought as our verse. The choice is not if we choose to serve one or the other, but that we will serve either one. Who are you servant to?

Eternal Son

1JO 1:2

We have seen, and bear witness, and show unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us.

1 John 1:2

Jesus always was and always will be the Son of God. He didn’t become the Son when He was born here in Bethlehem. He became a human being, yes. But He was always God’s Son. John knew Jesus as the eternal Son, and he wrote this part of Scripture as a first hand witness of being with, and seeing, the eternal Son of God - as a Man.

Supply

PHI 4

My God shall supply all your ____________.

Philippians 4:___

I’ve just given you the book and chapter. I want you to find the verse and write the final word in our text for today. Write down the verse number too, and then memorize this verse. The Lord told His followers that God knew what they had need of before they asked Him. He cares about His own and He wants to bless you.

Baptism

ROM 6:3

Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His death.

Rom. 6:3

Baptism is a change of position. I go into death and come out on resurrection ground. I get a new name - a name that associates me with Jesus. A dear friend of mine was raised a strict Hindu in India. His name was “King of the Cobras”. When He received salvation through believing in Jesus and was made a member of God’s family, he was baptized and then changed his name. He’s now called Jesubakthan. It means “Follower of Jesus”. He lost everything that this world had to offer -but he gained eternal wealth and life that can never be lost.

Living

2CO 5:15

He died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him which died for them, and rose again.

2 Cor. 5:15

We have been educated from very early in our school career that we can attain to anything. We are encouraged to live for self. But Jesus in our life has changed all that. He died for us. Now, as those that have His Spirit in our hearts, we should live for Him. We are not to live for “self”. The new creation, that came into existence when we accepted Jesus as Lord, now has one object in life - to live for the Lord Jesus Christ.

Depression: 4

MAT 26:37

And [Jesus] took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and deeply depressed.

Matt. 26:37 J.N.D.

Wow! You mean Jesus, the Son of God, got depressed? He sure did. Perhaps in a different way from you and me, but nonetheless He felt deep depression because of what He was about to go through - to be forsaken of God and to be punished for our sins. So He asked for it to be taken away. Praise God, He went through with it, but for many reading this who get fits of depression, remember that Jesus understands loneliness and He sympathizes with you in a way that no one else ever could. Jesus prayed earnestly to God. You can, too.

The Scriptures

2TI 3:15

The holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.

2 Tim. 3:15

Some time ago, at a large airport, a dirty small box, of considerable weight, was kicked around on the floor, being used as a door stop when needed. It had been there for some time, and no one seemed to know where it came from. Finally, someone became curious and it was pried open. It contained a gold brick! It had been part of a cargo shipped by air through a carefully guarded route, and in such crude looking boxes as a security disguise. One box had dropped off the cart! It was returned to the government authorities. So it is with the precious Bible, the Word of God contained in a book. Collecting dust perhaps, ignored, and used as an ornament, or to keep things in, or just kicked around! But it is priceless!

Servant

ROM 6:19

Even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.

Rom. 6:19

The Apostle Paul is exhorting the Roman believers that as they had, in their unsaved days, been servants to sin, now as Christians they should yield themselves - their whole being - as servants to righteousness. Yes, as a Christian I should want to give myself to the Lord and live for Him. He gave Himself for me; I should give myself back. The cost? A daily sacrifice of taking up the cross and following Him. It takes self-denial. It takes purpose of heart. And it brings great reward.

Covetousness - Idolatry

2PE 2:14

They have a heart trained in covetous practices.

2 Peter 2:14 N. K. J. V

This verse is talking about unsaved people, but we live in a society that affects us the same way. We are trained - through school and college, and in the work place - to be -covetous. “Go for the top!” is the world’s cheer. And in doing so, the Lord is pushed out, He takes a lower place in our life, while position, possessions, and power become the driving force in our life. Beware of covetousness, young Christian. God calls it “idolatry”.

Contentment: 4

2CO 3:5

Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God.

2 Cor. 3:5

The word “sufficiency” means contentment. Are you disappointed in yourself? You’ll never be disappointed in God. We fall short in so many things. We didn’t do as well as we would have liked in a particular class at school. Look away from yourself. To look inward is to find disappointment and dissatisfaction. When we get our eyes and hearts on the Lord Jesus we forget ourselves and we see the contentment that we can have through Christ. There is no contentment outside of Him.

Sincerity

PHI 1:10

That ye may be sincere . . . till the day of Christ.

Phil. 1:10

This word sincere comes from two Latin words, sine cera, which mean “without wax”. This used to be stamped on the bottom of pottery during the Roman Empire when the piece was certified as having no flaws. A dishonest potter would take a piece which was flawed and fill in the cracks with wax. But when it was held up to the sunlight the flaws would appear. This is a great lesson to learn because we are like vessels. Are we hypocrites? Are we “faking it”? Or are we sine cera? Sincere!

No Hope or Hope?

EPH 2:12

Without Christ . . . having no hope, and without God in the world.

Eph. 2:12

Anatoly and Gourgen made their first parachute jumps at an air club. Anatoly’s first nearly became his last, as his main chute failed to open. A man in his group had declared that if this happened, nothing could help. Anatoly hurtled toward earth, thinking his life was about to end as people yelled and motioned frantically for him to pull the emergency chute. Finally, he yanked on a cord. It opened the chute, and he landed safely. “But now in Christ Jesus ye . . . are made nigh by the blood of Christ.” Eph. 2:13. Jesus is your ONLY hope for salvation. Trust Him!

Patience

ROM 5:3

Tribulation worketh patience.

Rom. 5:3

Many of us have a difficulty with patience -or rather the lack of it! God’s way of teaching us patience is often to allow a difficulty or trial in our lives so that we are forced to become more like Jesus Christ, the “patient, spotless One.” Are we learning our lesson?

Gospel

2CO 4:5

For we preach . . . Christ Jesus the Lord.

2 Cor. 4:5

Recently a “holy war” was fought in Iraq. The heart of these “Allah worshipping” Arabs showed one thing loud and clear - they are full of hate, with no thought of the worth of a human life. Without Christ hate reigns and dominates. Paul knew that from experience. So now he preached nothing but Christ Jesus the Lord. Nothing else can solve the world’s problems. What a privilege to know Jesus as Savior and to worship Him as Lord - and to have His love in your heart.

Witness

ACT 6:15

And all that sat in the council, looking steadfastly on [Stephen], saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.

Acts 6:15

“And it came to pass, when Moses came down from Mount Sinai with the two tables of testimony [the law] in Moses’ hand, when he came down from the mount, that Moses wist not that the skin of his face shone while He talked with him.” Ex. 34:29.

What had Stephen and Moses been doing that would produce such a remarkable face? They had been enjoying God - and it showed.

Knitting

COL 2:2

That their hearts may be comforted, being knit together in love.

Col. 2:2

If you do not think that being knit together is necessary, just take hold of a loose thread of one of your nice wool sweaters and keep pulling it until you are finished. What you have left is a ball of yarn. But you will not have a sweater! God has knitted us together to display to the world His love and purpose. Let’s not deliberately unravel it.

He Knows

MAT 6:8

Your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask Him.

Matt. 6:8

George Mueller, who cared for many orphans during the last century, assembled his “family” at breakfast one morning and thanked the Lord for their meal - knowing that there was not one bit of food anywhere in the house. Just as he finished praying a knock came at the door. A bakery wagon had broken down outside the home and the delivery man wanted to give all the food in it to George Mueller. “Before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.” Isa. 65:24.

Peace: 3

PSA 3:5

I laid me down and slept; I awaked; for the Lord sustained me.

Psa. 3:5

It’s a real blessing to be able to sleep —peacefully. David enjoyed that luxury - even though he was running away from his own son Absalom. David had his confidence in God and it brought peace. His circumstances were anything but nice, but his heart trusted in God, and he had peace. We can, too.

“The work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness, quietness and assurance for ever.” Isa. 32:17.

Fellowship: 1

JOH 14:23

Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make Our abode with him.

John 14:23

Near the Royal residence at Osborne, in the Isle of Wight, England, were almshouses. While visiting an old lady in one of these, a gentleman asked her: “Does the Queen ever visit here?” “Oh, yes,” was her reply, “Her Majesty comes to see me!” Then the gentleman asked, with a twinkle in his eye: “And does the King of Kings ever visit here?” “Oh, no sir,” was her immediate response, “He never visits - He lives here!”

Covetousness

JOS 7:21

I saw . . . I coveted them, and took them.

Josh. 7:21

And what did Achan do with all the silver, the gold, and the coat that he coveted and took? He buried them in the ground in his tent! He didn’t even enjoy what he had taken. Why? Bad conscience, I’m sure. He knew he was wrong. And he knew that the punishment for taking those things would be his death. Is there anything wrong with wanting a new coat? No! - unless you covet to the point of taking that which is forbidden or does not belong to you. The Scripture is full of warnings of the dangers of covetousness. Don’t get caught in its trap.

Spirit-Filled

REV 1:10

I was in the Spirit on the Lord’s day, and heard behind me a great voice.

Rev. 1:10

That’s a good state to be in on the Lord’s day - in the Spirit: enjoying the Lord; thinking about Him; considering His love and immense sacrifice at Calvary’s cross. You may not hear a great voice behind you (unless you happen to be in someone’s way!) but you can certainly hear the “still, small voice” that Elijah heard, in your heart, ministering to you good things about Jesus and His love. Enjoy Jesus today. Be in the Spirit.

Service

1CO 3:8

Every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labor.

1 Cor. 3:8

Service is a wonderful thing. The Lord expects us to serve Him. And each of us will receive our own reward from Him, according to our own labor. Am I willing to do what the Lord wants me to do? Sometimes we may have to really struggle with inner feelings of not wanting to let go of the comforts we have here and go out in service where things may not be so plush. But God will give us the faith and strength to go out for Him. And then He will reward us for going. He gives us the faith to serve - and then rewards us for using it. Pretty neat, isn’t it?

Thoughts: 1CO 10:5

1CO 10:5

Casting down imaginations.

2 Cor. 10:5

Sometimes when I cast my thoughts down they are like cats! They always land on their feet and come back to bother me! This word “casting down” really means “to demolish or to destroy”. This goes a lot further! Do we have thoughts that are displeasing to the Lord Jesus Christ, and a hindrance to our spiritual growth? Destroy them! Now let us fill our thoughts with the Lord Jesus Christ and His precious Word.

Walking

EPH 4:1

Walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called.

Eph. 4:1

Our vocation is our work or occupation, and we are told to live and walk in a way that is suitable for someone in that job. Our job on earth is to love, please, obey, and serve the Lord Jesus. Are we walking worthy of that vocation?

Not Walking

EPH 4:17

Walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind.

Eph. 4:17

Here is the contrast with those who do not know the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior. We are not to pattern our lives after them, but after Christ. What a challenge - and we need to face that challenge daily.

Living Water

JER 2:13

My people have committed two evils; they have forsaken Me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns . . . that can hold no water.

Jer. 2:13

In this passage, God proclaims Himself the fountain of living waters - that means that He is the source of life and joy and refreshment. In John 4 Jesus showed that He was God when He spoke to the woman at Sychar’s well and offered her that living water. The living water is a source of true satisfaction and peace that comes from within - a well of water springing up into everlasting life. Believers have that true joy that comes from within. A Christian who would go to the world for satisfaction is like a wanderer in the desert who has left the oasis in search of a few drops of moisture that can be extracted from a cactus.

Degrees

1TM 3:13

For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree.

1 Tim. 3:13

Perhaps you are studying for a university or college degree. Have you ever considered this verse? We are told how to get, not just a degree, but a “good degree”. Maybe the Lord has some useful function for you to perform in your local assembly. If you do that well, for the Lord’s glory, you will have purchased a good degree in God’s sight. That is more worthwhile than any degree which you may obtain from a school in this world.

Remember: 1

SOS 1:4

We will remember Thy love more than wine.

S. of Sol. 1:4

The most precious time that anyone can spend is the privilege of spending an hour or so on Lord’s Day morning remembering the love of the Lord Jesus Christ. His love was greater than any love we’ll ever know. He was willing to die for us so that we would not have to. “If that isn’t love, the ocean is dry, there’s no stars in the sky, and the sparrow can’t fly. If that isn’t love, then heaven’s a myth; there’s no feeling like this - if that isn’t love!” Let’s enjoy the remembrance of Jesus’ love today.

Service

1CO 3:14

If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward.

1 Cor. 3:14

God is going to examine our service and see if it was done according to His will and in accordance with Scriptural teachings. If it was, then we will receive a reward. If not, our “works” will go up in flames. Take your Bible a minute and read 1 Corinthians 3:12-15. Do you see what standard God has set? It’s the highest! And He’s given you the power and ability to reach the standard so that He can reward you for your service. Keep serving!

God Sees

HEB 4:13

Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in His sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.

Heb. 4:13

A missionary in China read Romans 1 to a large audience. When he had finished his reading, giving emphasis to the last twelve verses, a Chinaman came to him quite upset, and stated that it was quite unfair for this foreign devil (as they refer to missionaries) to come to their land and find out all their secret sins, and then write them down in a book, and read them out in public that way!

Confidence

Our God . . . is able . . . and He will . . .

I’ve deliberately left out the reference. I want you to find it without using a concordance. The first 5 people to write to me at CARELINES with the answer will receive a prize. I saw this verse as a bumper sticker when I was a teenager and I’ve never forgotten it - mainly because, as written, it doesn’t make sense. But when you see the complete verse, you see the response of those who trust in God -COMPLETELY for His safekeeping and care. It’s in the Old Testament - after Proverbs.

Value

1PE 3:3-4

Whose adorning. . . let it be. . . a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

1 Peter 3:3-4

A man bought a picture at a rummage sale for $5.00 because he liked the frame and wanted to use it. When he removed the picture, underneath was an original copy of the Declaration of Independence, worth 1 million dollars! Sometimes we cover up the beauty of Christ with a poor exterior. Does my life show that Jesus lives in me?

Creation

PSA 33:6

By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth.

Psa. 33:6

This world was made by the word of the Lord. He spoke and trees grew. He spoke and mountains appeared. He spoke and animals, birds, and fish were seen. But when it came to man, the Lord formed him from dust. God formed man with His hands. Woman was formed from one of Adam’s ribs. Yes, God has a special care for man. Most of all He wants them all to accept His Son, Jesus, as Savior. Have you?

The Lord’s Coming: 2

JAM 5:8

The coming of the Lord is drawn nigh.

James 5:8 J.N.D.

Since this was written 2000 years ago, imagine how close we must be to the Lord’s coming now. It is not just a question that it is drawing near but that it has already drawn near. We are right on the threshold of the Lord’s coming. Are you ready? If you have accepted Him as your Savior, are you trying to please Him and serve Him every day?

Watching

MAT 26:40-41

What, could ye not watch with Me one hour?

Matt. 26:40, 41

The Lord Jesus was at the worst crisis of His life on earth - facing the forsaking of God while He was punished for sins that He did not commit - our sins. With the cross just hours away He asked His three closest disciples to pray with Him. They fell asleep. But He did not gripe at them. Instead He asks again for them to watch and pray. How easily we become distracted. As we remember Jesus in His death today, let’s be careful to “watch and pray.”

Service

1CO 3:9

For ye are laborers together with God.

1 Cor. 3:9

This phrase is remarkable. Does God need us? He could speak and the whole world would shatter into a million pieces. And yet Christians, God’s people today, walking in tune with Him and serving Him in His “field” are laborers together with God. We are working with God -He and us working together. Do you get the importance of this statement, young Christian friend? WE ARE WORKERS TOGETHER WITH GOD. He’s our God, He gave His Son to save us, and now we can be laborers together with Him. I think that’s great. I hope you do too.

Keep It!

PRO 4:23

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.

Prov. 4:23

In John 17:12 the Lord Jesus says to His Father, “Those that Thou gavest Me I have kept, and none of them is lost.” The Lord Jesus Christ has kept and will continue to keep us until we are at home with Him in the glory. Now our responsibility is to keep our hearts and our affections for Him so that our lives can be lived for His honor and glory.

Glory to God

GAL 1:24

And they glorified God in me.

Gal. 1:24

What a difference there is between a “glory-hound” and one who would seek to have God glorified in his life! A dear old Christian was often complemented on the quality of his work. His answer was always that he was on his knees every morning asking the Lord to help him to do his work well for God’s glory. To God be the glory!

Jehovah Shammah

EZE 48:35

The name of the city from that day shall be [Jehovah Shammah].

Ezek. 48:35

Jehovah Shammah - the Lord is there! You’re probably thinking, “What’s this guy trying to teach me Hebrew for?” I’m not. But I want this to stick in your mind and heart: There is a Jehovah Shammah - a place where the Lord is, a place where He has set His name, a place where we can meet with Him. Do you go there?

Kindness: 2

2SA 9:3

Is there not yet any . . . that I may show the kindness of God unto him?

2 Sam. 9:3

This was a genuine desire of a heart of love. David, now the king of Israel, wanted to show the kindness of God to the family of the man who had given him the most trouble. (Saul had even tried to kill David.) That’s God’s heart. It was said of David that he was a man after God’s own heart. God and David had common thoughts, desires, and actions. Kindness is a Christian quality that should be evident at all times. Even our words should be kind words. Let’s be kind - for Jesus’ sake.

Roots

COL 2:7

Rooted and built up in Him.

Col. 2:7

Roots are what give stability and vitality to the Christian life. Some folks are really concerned about their ancestry and where they came from. This is sometimes referred to as “roots”. But the roots of our Christian life are to be in Him, that is, in Christ. He is the source of all life, strength, nourishment, and stability in our life. Let’s be rooted in the Lord Jesus Christ.

Love: 7

SOS 2:4

He brought me to the banqueting house, and his banner over me -LOVE.

S. of Sol. 2:4

We sometimes make banners that announce “Happy Birthday” or “Welcome Home”, or other joyous sentiments. Our verse today spreads a banner over a special guest of honor at a banquet. It reads simply “LOVE”. That’s what each of us experience as Jesus brings us into THE BANQUETING HOUSE. There is only one place where there is true love. That’s the Lord’s banqueting house. Are you a guest?

Witnessing: MAT 10:32

MAT 10:32

Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven.

Matt. 10:32

“How did Jack have such courage to speak of Jesus to everyone?” questioned a high-school boy to another as they were walking from the funeral for their fellow-student, Jack. Jack’s uncle, walking just ahead of them, overheard that question. He turned and said, “I think we have the answer right here in this slip of paper found yesterday in Jack’s Bible.” It contained several verses on confession with the mouth, and not being ashamed of Jesus, and then this: “Dear God, please help me this day to own Jesus Christ as my Lord always, and everywhere, and to fear none but Thee. Amen.”

Delight

My delights were with the sons of men.

Prov. 8:31

In Genesis 2:8 we read, “And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; and there He put the man.” Eden means “pleasure or delight”, and so we see right from the beginning that God’s delights were with men and He wanted to have fellowship with the man whom He had created. Because of sin this fellowship was destroyed, but now by God’s grace that relationship has been restored for those who have accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as their Savior. Can you look up and say to Him now, “I delight to do Thy will”?

Salt

MAT 5:13

Ye are the salt of the earth.

Matt. 5:13

Most of us have a tendency to want to do things that draw at least some attention away from others and towards ourselves. But we are supposed to be like salt. Salt works invisibly. Its value comes from being soluble, since it gives flavor only when it disappears! Remember that the more you “dissolve” as you try to serve the Lord, the more you will help others to enjoy the sweetness of His name.

Strength

PRO 18:10

The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.

Prov. 18:10

Years ago a large church was being constructed in Madrid, Spain. One day the king was inspecting the building and told the architect that he felt the main archway was too flat, and might collapse. The architect insisted that the arch was safe, but under the king’s orders a pillar was built to reinforce the arch. Unknown to the king, the pillar stopped exactly one inch short of the arch. Even today this arch still stands, with the pillar stopping one inch below it! You don’t have to doubt God’s strength.

Fellowship: 2

ACT 4:23

And being let go, they went to their own company.

Acts 4:23

Where did the disciples enjoy fellowship? With their own Christian friends. As soon as the authorities let them go they sought out the company of believers. They enjoyed being with them. Remember at the end of John’s gospel Peter had said, “I’m going fishing.” Not anymore. Fishing days were over for Peter and John. With freedom they wanted fellowship. The company of saints were waiting for Peter and John, and they wanted to be there. What a great lesson for each of us.

Separation: 2

ROM 8:35

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?

Rom. 8:35

The answer to this question is understood in the text. The answer is NOTHING. If you know Jesus as your Savior, then the Bible says that you are “in Christ”. Now if you are in Christ and the Lord Jesus is in the center of God’s love, then you can REST in the fact that nothing can ever separate you, EVER, from His love.

Remembrance

ISA 26:8

The desire of our soul is to Thy name, and to the remembrance of Thee.

Isa. 26:8

Our soul’s desire is towards the Lord Jesus. Why? Because He gave Himself for us at Calvary’s cross. He suffered for our sin. He died, and shed His blood to wash us clean and make us fit for heaven. This should cause our affection to go out to Him. And not just to be identified with the name of Jesus, but to remember Him and the cost of our salvation. That’s what’s so special about today. We can remember Him.

Service: MAR 14:8

MAR 14:8

She hath done what she could.

Mark 14:8

The woman in our verse had poured an alabaster box of ointment on the Lord’s head, much to the disgust of those eating with the Lord. But Jesus appreciated it. He recognized that it was done from a heart of love and He accepted it as an anointing before His death. The woman probably didn’t know the full significance of what she had done, but the secret of service is to do it for the Lord. If it’s done for self-gratification or self-glory, then the service won’t be acceptable to the Lord. This woman’s act, misunderstood and not appreciated by those around, got a high commendation from the Lord - “She hath done what she could.” Oh that the Lord will be able to say that of each one of us.

Reconciliation

COL 1:21

And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath He reconciled.

Col. 1:21

Webster’s dictionary defines reconciliation this way: “To restore to friendship, harmony, and communion.” This is what the Lord Jesus Christ has done for us by His death and His blood shed on Calvary’s cross. When we think of the tremendous price that He has paid in His love to bring about that reconciliation, we should act on it by daily enjoying the fellowship and communion that He has brought us into by His grace.

God - Everywhere

139:9-10

If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; even there shall Thy hand lead me, and Thy right hand shall hold me.

Psa. 139:9, 10

An old mariner’s chart of the coast of North America and adjacent waters, made by an unknown cartographer in 1525, now in the British Museum, has some interesting but fearful directions on it. The mapmaker wrote across great expanses of unexplored land and sea the following inscriptions: “Here be giants!”, “Here be fiery scorpions!”, and “Here be dragons!” At some time in its career this chart fell into the hands of the scientist and explorer Sir John Franklin, a believer, who scratched out the fearful markings, and wrote in their place: “Here be God! GOD IS EVERYWHERE!”

Lying: 3

EPH 4:25

Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth . . . for we are members one of another.

Eph. 4:25

The word used for lying here literally means “falsehood, the practice of lying.” It is a terribly sad thing when believers are habitual liars. In this verse, the motive for not lying is that we are members of the same body. When we lie to other Christians it is like lying to ourselves. Have nothing to do with this awful practice. If you have a problem with it, pray earnestly to the Lord that He will help you overcome.

Old Versus New

COL 3:9-10

Ye have put off the old man . . . and have put on the new.

Col. 3:9,10

It’s assumed that a born-again Christian has put off the old man (discarded the old ways, the old friends, the old habits) and has put on the new man (Christ - His beauty, love, compassion). It still requires daily commitment, though, to be done with the old nature. It requires close communion with the Lord Jesus for others to see Him in us. Yes, young Christian - the OLD is DEAD - the NEW LIVES.

God’s Friend

JAM 2:23

Abraham . . . was called the friend of God.

James 2:23

How come? Because Abraham had absolute trust in what God said. He believed Him, he followed God’s instructions, he followed Him all his life. Abraham is called the father of the faithful, too. But our verse today shows a very special relationship that Abraham had with God - he was His friend. What a tremendous privilege! We who are Christians are even closer than that - we are God’s children. Isn’t that great?

Worship: 1SA 1:19

1SA 1:19

And they rose up in the morning early, and worshipped before the Lord.

1 Sam. 1:19

Husband and wife here - worshipping. Hannah had spent the previous day praying in great distress to the Lord. She begged Him for a child. She found peace after her prayer and the next day was found worshipping. Our worship today will be affected by what we did yesterday. We will be either occupied with the things that we did yesterday so that our worship will be hindered, or our occupation with the Lord yesterday will enhance our worship of Him today. This is what He wants - for us to be totally occupied with Him.

Service

JAM 2:26

Faith without works is dead.

James 2:26

This verse is a real challenge for those who say they are Christians. Does their life show it? Faith without works is dead. An admission that you are saved, without service for the Master, doesn’t add up. Sure we don’t expect to see you suddenly drop everything and rush off to Africa as a missionary. But we do expect the new nature to shine out and the old to disappear from view. And along with the new nature comes service. Faith without works is dead.

The Lord’s Pleasure: 1

REV 4:11

Thou hast created all things, and for Thy pleasure they are and were created.

Rev. 4:11

The world was not created in vain. The Lord created everything for His pleasure. If you study the birds, or the animals at the zoo, or the flowers, you see incredible beauty; the perfect feather formation and coloring - identical in each family; the beautiful patterns on the coats of some of the animals. It is a pleasure for us to look at these things and enjoy them. But the Lord created them for His own pleasure. When He had finished each day’s work in creation He saw that it was “good”.

The Lord’s Pleasure: 2

PSA 149:4

For the Lord taketh pleasure in His people.

Psa. 149:4

We noticed yesterday that as each feature of creation was completed the Lord “saw that it was good.” But after He had created man He “saw every thing that He had made, and, behold, it was VERY GOOD.” Yes, man added an extra something to God’s creation that to Him was very special. This should really want to make us live to please Him. Especially when we remember that in addition to making us, the Lord Jesus died to save us for heaven. What a tremendous God we have.

Suicide

2SA 17:23

And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he . . . hanged himself, and died.

2 Sam. 17:23

For Ahithophel, to have his counsel rejected was more than he could bear - so he committed suicide. This is a terrible thing and one which a believer in Jesus should NEVER consider. For every discouragement you feel, Jesus has felt the same. There is nothing in your life that the Lord isn’t familiar with and that He can’t comfort you in. Instead of taking your life, submit your life to Christ and let Him work out the details. He knows what to do. He knows the end from the beginning and knows how to work out your particular problem. Cast yourself totally on the Lord. He’ll help you through this great trouble in your life. Call me, Paul Pascoe, at 618-948-2434 (collect) if you have thoughts of suicide. Let’s talk and pray together.

Faith: 3

1SA 17:38-39

And Saul armed David with his armor. . . . And David said unto Saul, I cannot go with these; for I have not proved them.

1 Sam. 17:38, 39

YOU CAN’T OPERATE ON SOMEONE ELSE’S FAITH, young believer. You must exercise your own faith. Every step you take in life MUST be a step of your own faith in the living God who gave you the faith to start with and now wants you to use it. Never do anything or go anywhere because someone else did. Do what the Lord directs you to do and do it because you have faith in Him.

Witnessing: PSA 116:10

PSA 116:10

I believed, therefore have I spoken.

Psa. 116:10

Not only do we have in this verse the principle that those who believe ought not to keep silent about their faith but also a delightful bit of instruction about witnessing for the Lord: speak from your heart! Eloquence or scriptural knowledge may be helpful when speaking for the Lord but they are not essential. The most powerful testimony is that which comes from the heart.

Worship: EZE 1:28

EZE 1:28

The appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. And when I saw it, I fell upon my face.

Ezek. 1:28

Ezekiel saw the glory of the Lord (or at least a likeness to it) and he fell on his face. When we come together today to remember the Lord Jesus in His death HE WILL BE THERE IN PERSON. Falling on our faces should be our response, too. We probably won’t literally fall down, but in our hearts we will bow and worship the God of the universe who is our God and our Father and who planned our salvation through the death of His own Son. Incredible!

Service: MAT 25:40

MAT 25:40

Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me.

Matt. 25:40

Any service, no matter how small, or toward whom the service is performed, no matter how unknown (in the eyes of the world) the recipient may be, the Lord makes a note of the service and will reward it in a coming day. It is wonderful to realize that the Lord forgets nothing, and everything done for Him will be recorded and rewarded. Keep up the work!

Deliverance: 1

1SA 17:37

The Lord that delivered me . . . He will deliver me.

1 Sam. 17:37

David had absolute confidence that in spite of the odds against him (which he apparently didn’t even consider), the Lord would deliver him. Another way to say this is that David had faith. And God loves to reward faith. So we too can have the confidence that no matter what situation we’re faced with, the Lord will deliver us. As a result our confidence will grow and we can say, “The Lord that delivered me, will deliver me.”

Distress: 2

GEN 35:3

God, who answered me in the day of my distress, and was with me in the way which I went.

Gen. 35:3

Jacob’s life had been full of difficulty, a lot of which he had brought on himself. But he had experienced a wonderful thing. That was that God answered his call for help when he had been in trouble. And in addition, the Lord had stayed with him as he travelled through life. Jacob knew it and appreciated it. What a lesson for us: that in distress, or persecution, or trouble, or loneliness, or sorrow, Jesus is there waiting for your cry for help, and He too will stay with you as you go through life. When the couple on the road to Emmaus (see Luke 24:13-31) were feeling really downcast, who was it that walked along beside them? Jesus! Trust Him. He’s there.

Qualifications

COL 1:12

The Father . . . hath made us meet [qualified us] to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light.

Col. 1:12

“What are your qualifications?”

“Are you qualified for the job?”

“You have been disqualified because you have not met the requirements!”

Have you heard those statements? Take heart, our qualification for the inheritance in heaven comes from our Father - God. Who can disqualify us? No one! So if you feel that you don’t “measure up”, our verse today tells you that God qualifies you because of the death of His Son.

God’s Will: 2

JOH 2:5

Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.

John 2:5

Sometimes the Lord may direct us to do something that does not make too much sense - like filling the water pots with water when wine was what was needed! Obedience to the Lord is always the way to blessing and happiness. But how can we know the Lord’s will for us?

1. The Bible reveals God’s thoughts for man’s life. It gives general instructions for our conduct.

2. The Spirit of God gives us guidance concerning the daily decisions of life; we can go to the Lord in prayer asking for help and guidance in our decisions.

The Spirit of God will NEVER guide us contrary to the Word of God. Once you have a sense of the Lord’s will for you - “Whatsoever He saith unto you, do it.”

Power

COL 1:11

Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power [or, the power of His glory].

Col. 1:11

The source of our strength and might is not within ourselves but in the Lord Jesus Christ in glory. Do you lack power in your Christian life? You will only have it as you walk each day conscious of the fact that your life is linked with the life of Christ in glory. That is the source of power!

Remember: 2

EXO 12:14

And this day shall be unto you for a memorial.

Ex. 12:14

This day was a special day for the Jewish people. A lamb’s life was taken, his blood sprinkled on their front door posts and lintel to protect them from the destroying angel that passed over the land of Egypt. And the Lord wanted them to remember that day forever after. So we as Christians have a special day that we remember, although it’s not so much the day as it is what happened on that day. We remember the death of the Lord Jesus because through His death we have been set free from eternal punishment in the lake of fire. Because of the blood He shed at Calvary, our sins have been washed away. So what we remember is the cost of our salvation. Never let us forget what it cost God to get us fit for heaven. Remember.

Service: MAT 25:21

MAT 25:21

Well done, good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things.

Matt. 25:21

No service done for the Lord will lose its reward. Here, in a story that the Lord told, a servant had been given five talents (pieces of money) which he had traded and doubled in value. His reward was to be ruler over many things. We too have been given something from the Lord to either discard, hide, or use. If we use what He has given in quiet service for Him, He will say to us, as in our verse today, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” It will be wonderful to hear His “Well done!” That will mean more than any reward we can get for things we do in this world. Serve - and wait for the Lord’s “Well done!”

Love: 8

GEN 24:67

And Isaac . . . took Rebekah, and she became his wife; and he loved her.

Gen. 24:67

Have you ever noticed what one of the first questions is when a young lady becomes engaged? “How big is the rock?” is commonly heard! The amount of money that went into a ring is infinitely less important, however, than how much love went into it. In fact, when it comes to marriage, the expression “money doesn’t bring happiness” is especially true. A deep, lasting love for each other only happens when there is a shared and dedicated love for the Lord.

Guidance: 3

2CH 20:12

Neither know we what to do: but our eyes are upon Thee.

2 Chron. 20:12

There are times when we are uncertain what to do. We don’t have guidance from the Word of God, or from the Spirit of God, and we are in distress. God would have us follow the example of Jehoshaphat who “feared and set himself to seek the Lord” and then waited with his eyes on the Lord. He admitted publicly that he didn’t know what to do. He did not want to take one step forward without instruction from God. God did not disappoint Jehoshaphat’s simple faith and dependence, and He won’t disappoint you either. Wait for the Lord’s guiding if you are unsure what to do. HE WILL GUIDE YOU.

The Yoke

2CO 6:14

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers.

2 Cor. 6:14

Once I was following a car when all of a sudden its motion became very erratic. Finally it came to a stop after weaving left and then right for several hundred feet. Why? One of the rods that holds the steering together had broken and each of the front wheels was pointing in a different direction! When a believer marries an unbeliever, the situation is not much different from that car . . . and the results can be just as disastrous. This verse was truly given for your good and happiness.

The Body

ROM 12:4-5

We have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office [function]: so we, being many, are one body in Christ.

Rom. 12:4, 5

When a person accepts the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior they become a member of His body. And each member, as in our natural bodies, has a different position, a different function, a different gift, and a different job to do. Our hands are not really concerned with what our feet do, but if our feet stumble and we start to fall, our hands reach out and try to break the fall. Although they are different and do different jobs, they work together as a perfect team. So in the body of Christ. All members are equally important to Him, and they should work together as a perfect team.

Remember: 3

ECC 9:15

No man remembered.

Eccles. 9:15

Even good deeds are often forgotten. In our verse today a poor wise man delivered a city from enemies through his wisdom. But after it was all over “no man remembered that same poor man.” It is often so with us. We tend to forget what the Lord Jesus did at Calvary to save us. We get so busy with the affairs of this life that the Savior is forgotten. Let it be our personal, special prayer that we never forget what Jesus went through in order that we could go to heaven.

Worship: MAT 2:2

MAT 2:2

Where is He? . . . For we have seen His star in the east, and are come to worship Him.

Matt. 2:2

Some wise men from an eastern country had seen a very unique star in the sky. They must have studied and puzzled over it for some time and then figured out that this star meant that the King of the Jews had been born. They went to Israel to find Him. And they did find Him - in a stable of an inn. They fell down and worshipped the One for whom they had travelled so far. We can worship that same One today. We worship Him as our God and Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. We worship Him as a glorified, exalted Man in heaven. We worship Him because He died to save us.

Service: LUK 10:33

LUK 10:33

But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion on him.

Luke 10:33

What’s the difference between pity and compassion? The priest and the Levite (in the Good Samaritan story) may have had pity on the injured man, but the Samaritan had compassion on him.

Pity + action = compassion. Compassion in action is one aspect of service. Let’s activate our compassion button. Let it show.

Salvation: 5

ACT 4:12

There is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

Acts 4:12

The world has an expression, “It’s not what you know, but who you know that really matters.” This saying is sometimes true when you’re applying for a job, or trying to get an invitation to some important function. But when it comes to the matter of your salvation it’s 100% true. If you know Jesus as Lord, you’re “in”. If you’re a good person, a Bible student, a philanthropist, or a crusader against the world’s evils, but you don’t know Jesus as your Lord and Savior you are still “out”.

Obedience

ACT 5:29

We ought to obey God rather than men.

Acts 5:29

A Christian is never called to disobey. The above verse has sometimes been divided into three separate principles:

1. “We ought to obey” is a general statement - the government, rules at work or school, our parents. If there is no established authority we are instructed to “be subject one to another.” 1 Peter 5:5.

2. “We ought to obey God” gives the object of our obedience - authority and order comes from God; He does not author confusion.

3. “We ought to obey God rather than men.” When there is conflict between two authorities, we are called to obey the higher authority. It’s not a matter of disobeying man, but obeying God.

Affliction

GEN 41:52

God hath caused me to be fruitful in the land of my affliction.

Gen. 41:52

These are the words of Joseph when he was in Egypt. At this point he was the second most powerful man in the land; he had wealth and honor; but he still called Egypt the land of his affliction. Eighty years after his ascension to power, Joseph died. After all that time he still showed that he didn’t consider Egypt his home - he asked his family to take his bones back to Canaan. Let’s remember the example of Joseph. Let us not allow the many blessings which we enjoy in this world to cause us to forget that our home is not here. Because this world has cast out our Savior, it is the land of our affliction.

Affliction

2CO 4:17

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory.

2 Cor. 4:17

The Apostle Paul experienced more affliction than most of us ever imagine. However, he sums it up as “light affliction”. He had eternity in view. This is the key! All problems and worries need to be re-focused in light of eternity.

Ponder

PRO 4:26

Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.

Prov. 4:26

Consider your path before you walk it! If you blunder blindly on with no thought as to what the end of the path might be - you could be headed for major trouble. Always take your decisions to the Lord Jesus. Let Him know what you are planning on doing. It’s not that He doesn’t know, but make Him a part of your plans and share them with Him. Then let Him open and/or close doors as He sees fit. I guess another way to say the first part of our verse is “don’t make rash decisions.”

Worship: JOH 4:24

JOH 4:24

God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in spirit and in truth.

John 4:24

In the verse prior to our verse today God is seeking worshippers. The seeking of God here expresses the longing of God’s heart for one who truly worships Him - one who willingly gives from the heart because he is thankful for what he has been given, one who worships from a heart full of love for God, one who is so overcome with God’s work of salvation that praise just flows from his mouth. Worship in spirit and in truth is in contrast to ritual and formality. Daily sacrifices, offerings of incense, tithing, observance of the law and regular attendances at the temple could all be done without a true heart for God. God longs for the true worship of your heart today.

Service: EPH 5:16

EPH 5:16

Redeeming the time.

Eph. 5:16

This really means “seizing your opportunities”. Have you grabbed hold of every opportunity you could today to say something good about the Lord Jesus Christ, and to please Him?

Mercy

TIT 3:4-5

After that the kindness and love of God our Savior . . . appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us.

Titus 3:4, 5

Many of us think that we are pretty good, we do good works, we work for God. But our salvation does not depend on what we do. It depends SOLELY on God. We get to heaven simply because God chose to make us fit for heaven. He showed MERCY. Why did He choose you? Because in love He showed mercy to you. Do you realize that of all the millions of people who will be in heaven, every one will have gotten there exactly the same way? Through God’s mercy. That’s a VERY humbling thought. Think about it!

Rebellion

EZE 2:8

Hear what I say unto thee; be not thou rebellious like that rebellious house.

Ezek. 2:8

God is speaking very plainly to His prophet, Ezekiel. He didn’t want him to be rebellious. He wanted Ezekiel to be submissive to His will. Sometimes it’s hard for us to be submissive and go the Lord’s way, especially when all our “friends” are going in the opposite direction. But the path of blessing, happiness, and contentment is in going God’s way; in doing His will. Try not to argue against the Lord, young person. Don’t be rebellious. The Lord wants you to be happy and He wants you to have the very best that He can give. Submit to His will, whatever that may be.

Young Men: 1 John 4:14

1JO 2:14

I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.

1 John 2:14

How do you measure up, young brother? Are you strong? (Maybe physically, but how about spiritually?) Does God’s Word abide in you? Have you overcome Satan? This is a tremendous challenge and I want to challenge you today. If I were John the apostle writing a letter to your assembly, would I be able to pen the same words as John? - I have written unto you, young men, because . . . Strength, Communion, Overcoming. Strength requires communion. Communion requires overcoming. Overcoming requires strength. A full circle. AND YOU CAN DO IT - through Him who gave Himself for you.

Shepherding

GEN 37:2 1SA 17:14-15

Joseph [seventeen] . . . feeding the flock. Gen. 37:2

David [the youngest] went. . . to feed his father’s sheep.

1 Sam. 17:14, 15

Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father-in-law (Ex. 3:1).EXO 3:1

Take heed . . . to all the flock (Acts 20:28).ACT 20:28

Feed the flock of God (1 Peter 5:2).1PE 5:2

The great men of the Old Testament began their “careers” as shepherds. The Lord, in John’s gospel, commissioned Peter to shepherd the lambs and the sheep. Paul tells the elders of Ephesus to take heed to the flock. Peter exhorts the “elders” to feed the flock of God. What does all this mean? Shepherding is a great work. It’s probably always done behind the scenes but it’s VERY important.

Communion: Part 2

GEN 17:3

And Abram fell on his face: and God talked with him.

Gen. 17:3

Communion is the Lord talking with us and we with Him. This verse is really terrific. God talked with Abram. When God wanted to talk to Adam he was hiding. Abram was at His feet in reverent expectation waiting to hear what God had to say. It cannot be stressed enough - the importance of communion with God. Never let anything into your life that will stop that communion. If your communion is ever broken, take immediate steps to restore it. Confession of sin will bring automatic forgiveness. Then communion can be restored. Treasure the moments when God talks to you.

Worship

GEN 8:20-21

And Noah builded an altar unto the Lord . . . and offered burnt offerings on the altar. And the Lord smelled a sweet savor.

Gen. 8:20, 21

The burnt offering here speaks of Christ in His sacrificial death on Calvary. As we remember Him in His death today we are bringing to remembrance the burnt offering and what it means to God. What did God think of Noah’s sacrifice? He smelled a sweet savor. Why was it sweet? Because it spoke of His Son. When we remember the Lord in His death, God again smells a sweet savor. He is perfectly satisfied with the work of the cross. Keep this in mind today. As you take the loaf and the cup in remembrance of the Lord’s death, God smells a sweet savor.

Hearty Service

COL 3:23

Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord.

Col. 3:23

The word heartily in this verse is translated in other scriptures as “life”, “soul”, or “mind”. In other words, whenever we do something, we should do it with everything that we have -for His honor and glory. We should do it “as though our life depended on it”, “from the bottom of our souls”, and “setting our whole mind to it”. That means that when you do a job as a Christian you should not do it “half-heartedly”.

Sing

PSA 104:33

I will sing unto the Lord as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.

Psa. 104:33

This is quite a commitment, isn’t it? David knew enough about God to know that He was real, that He cared, that He protected and provided. And David rejoiced so much in the Lord that he made the decision to sing praise always to God. There is so much that we have to thank God for, many things that we often take for granted. But when you stop to think about it you know that the Lord in His love has provided those things for us. On top of that we know the Lord as our Savior and Friend. So we should be better able to make the commitment that David made -to sing praise to our God while we have our being.

Endurance

2TI 2:3

Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.

2 Tim. 2:3

I have never been in the armed forces but friends of mine who have tell me that basic training is not for softies. It is rigorous, repetitive physical conditioning, done to equip the soldier to be fit and able to take care of himself in battle. We Christians are soldiers in the Lord’s army. We are fighting the toughest enemy of all time - Satan and his angels. Wimps won’t make it. You have to be tough. That’s why the Apostle Paul in our verse exhorted Timothy to endure hardness, to put up with the trials and difficulties, and keep fighting - to be a good soldier. A coward turns and runs. A good soldier keeps on facing the enemy and doesn’t give up.

Growth

1TI 4:15

Occupy thyself with these things; be wholly in them, that thy progress may be manifest to all.

1 Tim. 4:15 J.N.D.

Are you growing in your Christian life? Do others see the result of your studying the Word of God, of your using the gift that God has given you, of your behavior as a model of the believers? Do they see spiritual progress in your life?

Agonizing in Prayer

COL 4:12

Epaphras . . . always laboring fervently for you in prayers.

Col. 4:12

The expression “laboring fervently” really means “agonizing” and is the same expression used of the Lord Jesus when it says, “Being in an agony He prayed more earnestly.” It comes from a root word which tells us of intense emotional strain and anguish displayed by those participating in the Greek games. Do you pray with that intensity? Even agony? The Lord Jesus did! Epaphras did! So should we.

Trouble: PSA 69:17

PSA 69:17

Hide not Thy face from Thy servant; for I am in trouble: hear me speedily.

Psa. 69:17

This is an earnest request by David for help from God. He was in trouble, he knew it, and needed God’s help. The Lord is always by our side (even though we don’t see Him) and is ready to help if we ask for it. He helps us many times when we don’t ask for it because we don’t see the danger. But when we do call for help He’s there to provide it. When Peter walked on the water and started to sink he wasted no time in calling to the Lord for help. We shouldn’t either.

Worship: GEN 35:3

GEN 35:3

Let us arise, and go up to Bethel; and I will make there an altar unto God.

Gen. 35:3

Bethel - the house of God. Jacob had a desire to respond to God’s request in the first verse of this chapter to go to Bethel to worship. The Lord Jesus has asked us to go to the house of the Lord today to worship Him. What a privilege it is to respond to His request and remember Him in His death. There’s something really simple about salvation - BELIEVE. There’s something really simple about what to do as a Christian -REMEMBER. Are you going up to Bethel today?

Service: EXO 40:16-33

EXO 40:16-33

Thus did Moses: according to all that the Lord commanded him, so did he. . . . So Moses finished the work.

Ex. 40:16, 33

Moses sets a great example here. He was given a work to do by the Lord and he did it until it was all finished. He didn’t get tired halfway through and give up. Nor did he jump off onto something else and leave the work incomplete. No! He did God’s bidding until completion. Let us too, following Moses’ example, complete the work the Lord has given us. The Lord Jesus finished the work that His Father gave Him to do. (If He hadn’t, there would be no heaven for us.) So let us not be weary in well doing but persevere until it’s all done.

Dedication: 2

EZR 7:10

For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach.

Ezra 7:10

Ezra was dedicated! First he wanted to learn God’s Word. Then he wanted to put it into practice. Then he wanted to teach it to others. These three things require dedication. Perhaps there is one more preliminary step to Ezra’s dedication - he prepared his heart! Communion is of paramount importance. If there is anything in our hearts that would stop us from learning God’s Word, let’s get it out. Then follow Ezra’s dedication to LEARN, PRACTICE and TEACH. Be an Ezra!

Deliverance: 2

COL 1:13

Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son.

Col. 1:13

If you are struggling for deliverance from Satan’s power, get down on your knees with this verse open in front of you and claim God’s promise. It does not say that He might deliver us, or that He is capable of delivering us, or even that He will deliver us, but that He has delivered us. It is an accomplished fact! Not only that, but the end of the verse tells us that we are brought into a relationship with His dear Son - the Lord Jesus Christ.

Trust: PSA 20:7

PSA 20:7

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.

Psa. 20:7

Some people have confidence in man’s inventions. Some have their confidence in the things of nature. But the believer has his confidence in the Lord. He’s the One who made the universe and the people in the world. He designed the human body and gave people the ability to create wonderful inventions. Why put your trust in something less than the best? Instead of trusting in creation, trust in the Creator. He’s the One in whom we can have entire confidence. No reason to doubt His capabilities.

Plenty

EZE 16:49-50

Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fullness of bread, and abundance of idleness ... neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy.

Ezek. 16:49, 50

Let’s learn a real lesson from this verse. Sodom had the things that we want: pride, prosperity and spare time. Their pride led them to be haughty and uncharitable. Their prosperity made them self-sufficient, self-centered, and God-neglecting. They used their spare time to get away from God and into gross immorality. Sometimes the things we want are not what is best for us. God knows what is best for us and will not hold back anything that is for our good. Let God decide and provide what He sees is best for us.

Prayer & Sorrow

1SA 15:11

It grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the Lord ALL NIGHT.

1 Sam. 15:11

What made Samuel so upset? Two things:

1. The Lord was sorry that He had made Saul king of Israel.

2. Saul had turned his back on the Lord.

And so Samuel cried in prayer to the Lord all night. That’s laboring fervently in prayer. That’s the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man. This shows the relationship that Samuel and the Lord had, and that Samuel knew where to turn in times of trouble and distress. I wonder if Samuel’s concern was mostly because Saul had turned away from God and Samuel knew that Saul was headed for trouble. That’s the heart of a true pastor or shepherd. Oh, to be like Samuel.

Worship: EXO 24:1-2

EXO 24:1-2

Come up unto the Lord, thou, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu . . . and worship ye afar off. And Moses alone shall come near the Lord.

Ex. 24:1, 2

Here we have a classic example of Old Testament worship. Moses could go near the Lord, the rest couldn’t. How would we feel if only one brother could go into a special room to take the loaf and the cup on Sunday mornings, but the rest of us had to sit in another room? We would feel very distant from the Lord. The wonder of Christianity, though, is that we can ALL come near to the Lord. We can ALL gather around Him and enjoy His presence as we remember His death at Calvary. This is a great privilege and one that we can enjoy until the Lord Jesus descends from heaven with a shout to call us to heaven.

Service

HEB 13:20-21

Now the God of peace . . . make you perfect in every good work to do His will.

Heb. 13:20, 21

Service for the Lord has to be in accordance with His will. There are many good works that we can do that will bring praise of men to ourselves. There are many good works that we can do according to what we think best and according to our likes. Those are more for ourselves than for the Lord. His work may go unnoticed by others. But whether noticed or not, we should always want to do His will. Nothing will bring a reward unless we have done His will. Is His will our will too?

Treasures

MAT 6:21

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

Matt. 6:21

If you read verses 19 and 21 you will see the foolishness and futility of storing up treasures on earth where everything will be destroyed. When we value something so highly that we think of it as a “treasure”, then all our love and affection is poured into that thing. And so our thoughts and energies and affections should all be centered in heaven, not on earth.

Thoughts

1PE 1:13

Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you.

1 Peter 1:13

Another way of saying this is to “prepare your minds for action”. When a soldier girded on his sword he was getting ready to go out and fight. So we are to prepare for action. We are to be self-controlled. We are to keep our hope for the Lord’s coming alive in our thoughts and hearts. Our thoughts are easily distracted and changed. Let’s make an extra effort to keep them under control and think about Jesus and His coming again. Today is the day when most of the world celebrate the birth of Jesus - His first coming into the world. Many of them are not ready for His second coming - and it’s almost here!

Behavior: Part 2

1SA 18:14

And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the Lord was with him.

1 Sam. 18:14

David was in a dangerous position. King Saul was afraid of David. Saul got very depressed and twice tried to kill David. David was to become the next king of Israel. But instead of acting smart-alecky and arrogant, he behaves himself wisely. This made Saul even more afraid of him. How is our attitude around others? Let’s learn from David’s example and act in a wise manner. There’s plenty of foolishness in the world. We, as Christians, can have fun, yes. We can and should be happy, yes. But we must act wisely in every situation, in every place we go.

Example: 3

2TI 3:14

But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them.

2 Tim. 3:14

The Word of God places special emphasis on that which we learn from people we know, because we can see if the teachings are carried out in the life of the teacher. I hope that you may find the thoughts in CARELINES helpful, even though you may not know me. However, I would encourage you to place special value on that which you have learned and seen carried out by those in your assembly. Books, tapes, broadcasts and other study aids may be good for reference, but there is no substitute for seeing the Word of God carried out in the daily life of a believer.

Reward

GEN 15:1

Fear not, Abram, I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.

Gen. 15:1

Abram had just turned down a reward for rescuing the captives taken from Sodom during a war. He could have become instantly rich but he wanted all his blessing to come from God. Right after this incident God comes to him in a vision and says what we have in our verse today. First, He was Abram’s Protector. Second, he was Abram’s reward - no, more than that - his exceeding great reward. How do you think Abram felt after that message? I’m sure he felt completely satisfied. Perhaps he sat back and said, “Wow, that’s fantastic!” For sure, his relationship with the Lord was further strengthened. God ALWAYS rewards faithfulness. Stand firm and let the Lord be your exceeding great reward.

Worship: JOS 5:14

JOS 5:14

And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and said unto him, What saith my lord unto his servant?

Joshua 5:14

Here is an attitude that we can have while we worship: to listen to what the Lord is saying to us. We should hear a theme in the worship meeting that speaks of Christ. We should feel His presence and enjoy Him there. We need to practice making ourselves available for the Lord to use. While the sisters are not to speak in the meeting (except for singing and saying “Amen”), they too should listen for the Lord’s voice speaking through the brothers. Sisters too can say, “What says my Lord unto His servant.” Worship. Listen. And then respond in audible praise.

Service: HEB 10:36

HEB 10:36

Ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.

Heb. 10:36

The promise is coming, young believer. Never doubt it! It is coming - and soon! Sure we get impatient waiting for the Lord to come, but He will come. And when He does then we will be rewarded for service done for Him. Doing the will of God is a choice in this life. Sometimes we may never see any result from our labor. Don’t quit working though. You will get a reward when Jesus comes. Keep looking up! Keep serving - doing the will of God.

A Forgiving Spirit

MAT 18:35 COL 3:13

Forgiving one another . . . even as Christ forgave you.

Col. 3:13

From your hearts forgive . . . every one his brother their trespasses.

Matt. 18:35

Think right now if you are guilty of having an unforgiving spirit against someone. Get down on your knees before the Lord and judge that right now. (Remember what the Lord Jesus has forgiven you.) If you have refused to forgive that person, then go to them, or telephone them, and confess it to them. What does this do? It stops a root of bitterness from growing that will adversely affect many others. One of the most effective herbicides that kills a root of bitterness is labeled “FORGIVING SPIRIT”. The application instructions say, “USE LIBERALLY - WHEN NEEDED!”

CareLines: Volume 2

Table of Contents

Hope

Care: Part 1

Salvation: 1

Quitting

Confidence in God

Worship

Example

Example: 2

Worship

Service

Girls Only!

Problems

Safety

Life: 1

Worship

Service

Longing

Guidance: 1

Care: Part 2

Worship

Service

Peace: 1

Rest

Healing

Honor

Time With God

Worship

Service

Safety: 2

Trouble

Guidance: 2

Dress

Trials

Worship

Service

Behavior: Part 1

Envy

Depression: 1

Separation: 1

Faithfulness: 1

Worship

Service

Kindness: 1

The Tongue

Help

Purity

Unfruitfulness

Worship

Service: GAL 5:13

Fear: 1

Praise: 1

Salvation: 2

Depression: 2

Hard Work

Worship: ACT 17:24-25

Service

Pride: 1

The Poor

Restoration

Devotion: 1

Love: 1

Worship: GEN 22:5

Service: JOH 13:16

Commitment

Salvation: 3

Life: 2

Dedication: 1

Gossip

Worship: JOS 5:14

Service: 2TI 3:17

Flattery

Laziness

Peacemakers

Building up

Love: 2

Worship: 1CO 16:29

Service

Contentment: 1